Sex, Lies, RockNHeels Closed For RICK345

[LillyNLace]

The sign read, "Welcome To Fork River Your Gateway To Adventure" and below that, "EST 1895 POP 34,442" and looked newly placed thought Annabeth or Anna to those that new her. She took her next right onto none other than the obligatory Main Street every small town seemed to have. She also made a mental note that the population had increased by nearly 20,000 people since she was last here which had been at least six or seven years. She continued on for about two miles and the frequency of older homes that were mostly well maintained increased until rows of one to three story buildings began to appear. A traffic light ahead of her turned red and she stopped at the intersection of Main Street and City Avenue where there was a roundabout which was a large dolphin fountain ringed by stone. There were a few stone bench seats that were placed around the fountain with the names of the towns founders engraved on them and the dolphin paid homage to their proximity to the Gulf Coast of Alabama. Her last name, Hamilton, was engraved there on one of those benches along with her ancestors which had helped establish the town many years ago. As she continued her drive through Fork River memories washed over her like a rogue wave as she remembered things she had thought lost to time. The downtown area hadn't changed much over the years some businesses had come and gone almost none were shuttered nor were they in a state of disrepair as you might find in many small towns that had dried up. There were a few staples that were still there such as the small cafe, hardware store, and the bakery that always produced wonderful breads, cakes and pastries she had enjoyed as a child.

A few blocks down she took a left then two more blocks and a right which would lead her to the bridge over both of the two rivers which briefly merged into one before branching off once more further south of town before they emptied into the estuary of Mobile Bay. It is also from these two rivers and the fork that the town had derived it's name and at one time had been a thriving river boat town along with a large saw mill where the timber and planks would be transported via the rivers to Mobile Bay and beyond. Later the timber industry would see a resurgence when a paper mill opened in the 1950's and blanketed the town with a rather unpleasant and persistent smell. The mill had closed in the late 1990's and it was then the town began to circle the old proverbial drain and her father along with several other businessmen in the area stepped in with a plan. They embraced their close proximity to the Gulf Coast which was only about an hours drive along with the two scenic rivers and numerous picturesque lakes that were in the area. Her father and his four partners were instrumental in kick-starting the towns now vibrant tourist trade. There were now an abundance of lodges and hotels in the area along with numerous Airbnb's that the locals were cashing in on. Plus the proximity to the City of Mobile after it's resurgence attracted more permeant residents along with retiree's retreating from much colder climates who couldn't quite afford homes in beach towns had spurred a good bit of new home construction.

A mile or so before the bridge Anna took another right and drove a short distance until she saw a sign that read, "Fork River High School" which sat beside the junior high school and elementary school. She slowed as more memories ran through her mind. The school had not only been recently renovated but also an expansion that had been built recently and justified by the growing town of suburbanites from Mobile. The Holy Grail of high school life came into view, a place where she had spent many Friday nights, a place where young men etched their names in local small town glory known officially as Rodgers Field. The same field she walked as homecoming queen and to it's left sat the gymnasium where she was crowned Prom Queen. These were good memories of a far simpler life and time when the entire world was hers to discover and dreams yet to be realized.

Anna continued on before turning into one of the oldest neighborhoods in town where the streets were lined with gigantic oak trees and every home looked like it was right off a Southern Living Magazine cover. Medium sized homes with that unmistakable southern charm and perfectly manicured lawns turned to large antebellum style homes some were over a 100 years old but had been either restored or immaculately maintained. Entering a cul-de-sac she paused in front of a old antebellum home which was in picture perfect condition and a smile flashed on her face. This had been Anna's home from birth until she left for college at USC with big ideas so eager to leave her small town life for big city lights. Though her parents still owned the family home as the same family member that had helped found the town also had built the home her parents no longer lived there. After her sister and brother moved out of the home it was just to big for her parents and they wanted to travel during their retirement years. So they had packed up and bought a home in the Florida Keys and one in Nashville, Tennessee to be closer to her sister and their newest grandchild. Both of her siblings, brother and a sister, were married with children now. Her brother having two children while her sister just given birth to her first child who also happened to be the first girl grandchild as her brother had two boys. Her parents frustrations with her career path and chosen profession to this point was rather intense not to mention her marriage to a rock star and life on the road was a particularly hot topic. They certainly felt she was falling short of expectations of finishing college and earning a degree, getting married to a guy from a well respected family and producing them several grandbabies. She hadn't even discussed the divorce which they would be thrilled about but along with that would come the rumors and accusations about her which she had little faith they would discount as lies. Currently the home was occupied by a Mobile Lawyer and his family at least for the next year as they had just signed the lease.

Anna was about to leave when she glanced at the home next door to her family dwelling. This house was much smaller than the rest though quaint with southern charm and well kept it was just small and lacked the elegance and extravagance of the other homes. This house and two acre lot had once belonged to her family when her great great grandfather had ran a farm here on the property. The small house was where his farm manager had lived with his family and when her great great grandfather had retired and stopped farming he deeded the home and the two acre lot to him. The only catch was if it was ever sold by him or any of his descendants and her grandfathers family still owned the original home they would be allowed to take it back if they wanted if not his family could sell it. So even now ancestors of these two men still owned both homes and properties. In fact her childhood best friend grew up there as well and as far as she knew might even still live there and she knew his parents still lived there. They had stayed in touch during her first year of college as best they could with him always promising to come visit but she only saw him on the big holidays and during the summer between freshman and sophomore year. After that they just sort of lost touch and she wondered if he was married somewhere now with a family of his own and if he had moved away? She considered for a quick second stopping and knocking on the door but decided against it at least for now. If he was still in town word would travel fast it always does in small towns both good and bad but especially the bad and that worried her.

 

[LillyNLace]

Anna left the cul -de- sac and her old neighborhood behind and crossed the Fork River bridge as it was more colloquial known. After crossing the bridge heading south towards the Gulf of Mexico on the Florida side of Mobile Bay new subdivisions began to spring up some complete others in various stages of completion with home prices ranging from 200k upwards to 600k. Intermixed with the new home developments were several modern strip malls housing your typical chain stores, restaurants, fast-food establishments and a few bars. The bar scene had never been big in Fork River with only two dive bars and one Mexican restaurant that had a bar. But since she had been gone awhile perhaps not a vibrant scene there were a small sampling of sports bars, a quaint tavern and several restaurant bars.

As she passed one of the new developments she saw a familiar face on a sign. It read, "Homes for Sale Starting at 299,000, call Hailey Marshall at Marshall Real Estate" and listed a phone number. The face and name belonged to none other than her friend/enemy/rival from high-school. She was aware that Hailey had gotten married to Bo, Anna's high-school boyfriend several years ago but had no idea where they lived or what they were up to these days. Anna and Bo had dated for two years as his family was a founding family as well. He had been the star high school quarterback. They broke up when she went to USC and he went to Ole Miss on a football scholarship with dreams of the NFL. But that dream would come to a harsh end after several injuries ended his football career. He had graduated with a law degree and moved back home heir apparent to his families riches and to take up the mantle of politician. She scoffed at the rubber smile plastered across her face as she passed the signage and quickly realized there were many more where Hailey was the agent selling the properties. Another mile and houses began to become more separated and she soon turned left onto a freshly paved driveway and stopped 20 feet off the road at a large metal gate with a camera and keypad. She reached for her car keys found the small fob and pushed a button and the automatic gates swung open allowing her to enter. She continued along the drive which wound into a slight "S" shape and was lined by hardwood trees though the underbrush had been cleared out from between the trees.

As she rounded the last little bend a two story wooden home made with cedar siding and having more of a modern rustic lake house look. There was a large covered porch with a porch swing and a attached two car garage. The house was large for one person with about 2,800 square feet of living space and the floor plan was very open and spacious. The home boasted 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, large open kitchen and sunken living room. French doors opened onto a back deck that was several feet off the ground with a nice view of the lake where a stone covered path led from the porch to a small pier and boat dock. Upstairs the house contained the master bedroom, master bath, and a room she had converted into her music room/studio. She had managed to get this gem as it was nearing final construction as her father had actually been offered the property as an investment and he immediately thought of Anna. Her parents attempted to purchase the property for her but she absolutely refused as she had a nice little nest egg from her recent divorce and her savings. It allowed her to buy the property outright and cut through any red tape with a mortgage company. It was only one day after signing the paperwork and transferring the funds that she found out a real estate company had attempted to buy it. But she had requested her information remain anonymous though eventually anyone would be able to access county property records but for the moment few knew who had bought the property. It was then she wondered if Hailey's real estate company was the one that wanted the property so badly. They had made several calls and even wanted to speak with the new purchaser to buy them out with a nifty little profit to boot. If so she knew once Hailey found out who had bought the property right out from underneath her she was most likely gonna be rather pissed about it unless she had drastically changed over the years. Hailey hated losing especially to Anna and now that she was back and they were adults she wondered how things between them might play out as eventually they would run into one another Fork River was just to small for that not to eventually happen. Plus the news of her arrival would travel quickly and she wondered if the rumors that had been dogging her since the bands break up would follow her as well.

Anna parked in front of the closed garage and instead of going into the home she headed straight to the pier and lake. It was late evening and the sun was just starting to set and reflected beautifully off the mostly still water. She inhaled deeply of the spring air mixed with the smell of the water and nature around her. Gone was the disgusting smell of the paper mill from her youth as was the stench of a big city. The air was clean and the smell of spring made her think of a time of rebirth and renewal when flowers bloomed and plants came out of hibernation. The promise of summer lingered on the back end of the various scents that she inhaled. This house was hers and hers alone the one place in the world where she could be alone and no one could bother her. A refuge where she could reinvent herself and find a new meaning in life. But first she needed to sort out some things that stilled troubled her and perhaps face off with a few old demons that still haunted her at night in her dreams. But just being here was a start and for the first time in quite a while she felt the feeling of hope and that things would work themselves out in the end.

 

[Rick345]

Out for his morning run sweat darkens the sea blue t-shirt with a black dolphin printed on the front as it clings to his trim fit thirty-four year-old frame. It is six o'clock the study rhythm of waves crashing on the sugar-white sands tinted pink by the morning sun helps Rob keep a steady pace. The Gulf Coast of Alabama is his home, it is more than that, it was a part of him. It’s his soul.

Jimmy Buffet’s, “Stars Fell on Alabama” spills through his earbuds, conjuring up thoughts of Beth and the night they sat on the pier counting shooting stars when she told him she was moving to LA with some rock musicians she had just met the night before. That was almost twenty-five years ago it was so long ago he couldn’t remember the band’s name only that they played a two-night gig at the “Flora-Bama.” But when a song reminds him of Beth it seems like only yesterday. From time to time he wondered how a girl from LA Lower Alabama was doing in the city of angels.

‘Ah the Flora-Bama’, he muses remembering when it was just a little biker bar where the girls would get in free with a fake ID and a short enough skirt. Now like everything else the Flora-Bama is a huge hideous monstrously. Everything has gotten too big too developed. His knees ache as he approaches Hailey Hights and ten minutes ago he passed Marshall Meadows.

Twenty years ago it was meadows where deer gather to enjoy the first warm rays of sunlight. Or if you were lucky you’d see an eagle soaring effortlessly on the ocean thermals. Today is half a million dollar beach homes occupied three months out of the year and set empty the other nine months. The deer were gone, the eagles were gone, replaced by houses barely lived in, all made of ticky-tacky and all look just the same. All thanks to Hailey Marshall, just the thought of her made him spit. She is destroying everything he loves.

The pond he and his used to fish-filled in for Hailey’s Haven, the sandlot and fields where he and his friends played baseball and football is now Marshall Mall, every single childhood memory whipped out by that sleazy drunk Hailey Marshall. Just the thought of her made him want to puke. The angelic voice of Joni Mitchell fills his ears. “That you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone, they paved paradise, put up a parking lot… They took all the trees put 'em in a tree museum, and they charged the people a dollar an' a half just to see 'em”

As he listens his face grows redder and redder as his blood pressure raises luckily as he rounds the bend the house he calls home comes into view, the very house he grew up in the surroundings failure and reassuring. Before hitting the porch he tares out the ear buds and peels off his t-shirt holding on to it like a damp rag as he twists the doorknob and steps inside. Stripping out of his shorts, socks, and running shoes he’s naked before he reaches the bathroom and shower.

Reaching inside the shower door and twisting the knob water springs from the shower head. Stepping inside he tastes salt as the water washes down his face and over his lips. Picking up a bottle of body wash squirting the thick white goo in his hand and placing the bottle back on the shelf he works the blob into a foamy lather and begins washing himself from his face downward.

Washing his torso he noticed his body had lost some of its tone but his washboard stomach hadn’t completely lost its six-pack definition. He smiles at the fact he hasn’t developed a dad bod like most of his bros. Putting another blob of body wash in his hand he quickly busies himself washing his dick and balls. Slowly stroking the thick eight-inch shaft a slight shiver goes down his spine every time he rubs the purplish head of his cock. It had been much too long since he’d been laid.

He glances at his watch it is 7:00 he has less than an hour before his first class. Quickly finishing his shower and drying himself he dressed in record time. That part was easy he laid out his gray suit, blue oxford shirt, boxers, and socks the night before just as he always does. Stuffing his wallet, loose change, and keys into his pockets and slipping into a pair of black bucksports Fork River folk don’t worry about that kind of thing.

Parking he leaps out of his 2020 Ford Maverick and races to the doors of the school. Clearing the steps in two bounding leaps he swings open the door as he has done countless times before.

The first thing he notices is a yellow posted note stuck to the top of his desk. Leaning the note he reads, “Meeting with Mrs Marshell 3:30 PM. Donation for football equipment. BOYBB. Ms Hobbs”

It took a minute to realize BOYBB was Ms Hobb’s shorthand for Be On Your Best Behavior.

 

[LillyNLace]

Anna stood on the stage before the screaming crowd as she finished the last bar of the song on her 1976 Ebony Gibson Les Paul Custom. The drummer started his furious staccato attack that ended the song but it was all wrong out of time. The final sounds coming from her amplifier was awful out of tune and horrified her. The crowd booed and everyone in the band turned and looked at her an accusing look, a look of blame and disgust. But it wasn't her she had played it perfectly and why was the drummer playing it all wrong. She almost could feel her cheeks become hot and flushed with embarrassment when her eyes opened. Confused she looked around taking in her surroundings. The morning sunlight beamed through the windows and the French doors of her bedroom and she suddenly heard the drumming again this time more frantic and then a quick chiming.

Reaching for her phone on the bedside table she quickly opened an app and was staring at the face of a stranger, "Hello" she said realizing it must be the internet and cable provider come to install everything. "Hi, I'm here to install your cable and internet service today we had an appointment for a Ms. Annabeth Hamilton" came his somewhat annoyed reply. The tiny speaker on her phone making him sound like an angry wasp intent on stinging her. "Yes, Yes of course give me just a second and I will be right down", she closed the app and swung her feet out of bed. She attempted to tame her hair a bit with her hands as she bounded down the stairs still a bit disturbed by her dream. It was only when she was half way down she realized that she had a pair of silk pajama shorts that were slightly too short and a camisole top that fit a bit too tight. Both of which were not appropriate for this situation. But it had taken almost three weeks to get on the schedule and the cable company had warned her if she missed the appointment it would be another three weeks or more and she was worried he might leave. Why couldn't they just give her a more exact time than mornings or afternoons, she wondered as she closed the distance to the door.

She opened it to see a man close to her age wearing a shirt with the cable company logo and a name that said, "Steve" stenciled upon the left breast. While not an angry look it was a look of impatience and "I don't have all day lady" that made her quickly step aside and allow him entry. His look did soften a bit when he saw her and how she was dressed. "I'm sorry I just drove in yesterday was a long drive and I over slept." It was then she wondered how he got through the gate without her knowing about it. But she remembered there was an alert on her phone when she opened the app and she had slept through it plus she had given a temporary code to the cable company to get through the gate. Steve also looked familiar to her but she was unable to place him though she suspected she might have known him from school or maybe he just had one of those faces but she wasn't going to ask. He didn't appear to recognize her nor did he ask if they had met or anything which she was thankful for.

Anna led him to where she planned on having her TV and other areas of the home that would need a connection despite being able to connect wirelessly having an actual connection she felt was a prudent plan. He seemed to make a mental note of everything as she walked him through it. Though he made a decent attempt of only looking at her from the neck up she did catch his eyes wandering up and down her body especially her breasts. It was a bit cool as the AC was down a little to low and of course nipples were erect and poking hard against the fabric of her top. She crossed her arms nervously across her chest to cover them up but she knew he had most likely noticed. She hoped he didn't think she was doing this on purpose to try and tease him but felt most likely he would think exactly that. As soon as she finished explaining what was needed Anna excused herself and headed back to the bedroom. She flung open her suitcase as she hadn't even unpacked her five days worth of clothes the night before and slipped into a pair of jeans and a loose way to long tee shirt. She grabbed a hair tie and pulled it back behind her head as she had a quick peek in the mirror. The majority of her clothes and home furnishings were being shipped and would not arrive for a few more days.

A few minutes later she was heading to the kitchen to make coffee when she realized she didn't even have a coffee maker or coffee and decided she would have to do some shopping today for a few necessities. The bed had been purchased new along with living room furniture, dining table, end table, coffee table, entertainment center, major kitchen appliances, washer and dryer by the builder. It was all nicely hand made furniture that matched the rustic ambience of the home. Last night despite having a bed she had no sheets or anything for it only a small travel blanket and pillow she had taken with her and had slept on the bare mattress that first night. Grabbing her phone she told Steve she would be on the back deck if he needed anything and walked outside to a beautiful morning taking in her backyard and lake view in the full light of the day. She smiled and silently approved of the builders vision of someone enjoying the back porch with such view. Settling in to the porch swing, which was the only option for sitting currently, she began checking her phone for messages. She had missed a call from her parents, most likely wanting to know if she had made it safely, a text message from her sister also wanting to know if she made it safely, a second text message from her sister who scolded her this time for worrying them and a text from an unknown number, "You can run but you can't hide". This made her blood run cold, her heart skipped a beat as she honestly had no idea who this might be. Looking again at the number she saw it had a 323 area code which she knew as LA. She let out a breath slightly relieved at this thinking that no one from LA had a clue where she had taken off to. But the burning question was why were they texting her this veiled threatening message? She considered texting it back but decided against it at least for now and would do a bit of internet sleuthing later to try and figure it out.

Anna's phone rang suddenly and she jumped quickly looking at the number almost afraid it would be the 323 area code number. Instead it read "Mom" and she quickly pressed the answer button, "Hello" she said into the phone. Her mother's voice came across the line, "Anna why didn't you call us you know we were worried about you driving all the way from California alone." It was just her mother's worried tone but her, "I don't approve young ladies should not travel that far alone in a vehicle" voice. "Mom, Mom", Anna stammered trying to prevent her mother from going on a rant about how she needed some responsibility in her life, how finding the right guy and settling down, having children would give her that responsibility, that it was time to grow up. Finally, Anna said louder than she meant to "Mom I'm fine" and of course her mother replied, "You don't have yell at me I can hear just fine". Anna went on to explain it was late and yes she should have at least texted but she had fallen asleep and just got up. The conversation softened a bit as her mother wanted to know how she liked the house as she had only seen a video tour. She explained she loved it and the cable man was there now putting in her cable and she hoped the rest of her stuff would arrive in a few days. She told her mother she was going shopping later and of course her mother wanted to pay for everything which she quickly but politely decline. She wondered how her mother could say she needed to be more responsible but yet her parents always wanted to pay her way. Almost an hour later, after talking to mom, dad, sister and listening to baby coo she was able to get off the phone.

 

[LillyNLace]

Stepping back inside, Anna looked but didn't see Steve as she saw a new router now sitting on her empty entertainment stand along with wires running from it to the wall jack. She heard some noise upstairs perhaps an electric drill and headed up to check on things. She found him in her bedroom fishing another wire through the wall and putting in a wall jack. He looked up from his task and gave her a smile before looking back down, "This is the last room already got the large empty room", he nodded towards her studio, "this builder was good he had everything pre-routed and easy for me to drop the cable and fish it out I love it when they go the extra step makes my job so much easier." Anna smiled at him but careful to not make appear as a flirting smile before Steve spoke again. "This house is well built with quality materials and sturdy hardwoods I used to work for a home builder and I have seen the cheap houses that builders put in up in no time. Take some of those in Marshall Meadows they look beautiful on the outside with their perfect little tidy sodded lawns. But when you peel back the layers cheap materials, shoddy workmanship at best but they dress it up with a veneer outside and ask half a million. I wouldn't take one of those if you gave it to me unless I was trying to flip it. But this house here now this is a house almost as sturdy as the old antebellum homes in the historical district. Your husband must of had some experience or something to have one built like this or was he the builder?"

Anna had been politely listening to his monologue that it took a moment to realize what had just asked. Stammering slightly, "No husband just me I saw it come up for sale and watched a video tour and I suppose just got lucky." She wanted to lie and agree that her husband did a great job in selecting a home. But she was fighting accusations of lying from the very recent past she wasn't gonna start lying here now of all places even if it was just to make conversation and get out of an explanation. When Steve heard this a look of surprise and curiosity spread across his face and he didn't say it but she knew he was wondering why she wasn't married. Anna started to say she was recently divorced but decided it would only bring about more questions that she didn't want to answer. Steve finished the install five minutes later and gave her a quick run down of how to get everything up and running and left with her remotes, cable boxes, program guide and a small instruction sheet pointing out the 1-800 numbers for customer service. He started to leave and reached in his pocket and handed her a business card from the cable company with his name and number. Here is my card and if you just call me directly I can probably push you in to the front of the line since I already am familiar with the set up and all so feel free to call me anytime or text if you have questions or need of my services. He was obviously being a bit flirtatious as he had put a little to much emphasis on services. She let it pass glanced at his card, pocketed it and put on a smile, "Thank you so much I do appreciate it and yes if I have any issues I will give you a call." Anna saw him out as she apologized for the wait and thanked him for his patience earlier when she was delayed in answering the door. She watched him stow his equipment wave goodbye and get in the van and leave before closing the door. Her mind quickly turned to her shopping trip to obtain the mandatory coffee and coffee maker along with numerous other things such as bed linens.

Steve was only half-way down Anna's driveway when he picked up his company cell phone and placed a call. "Hey man what's going on" asked the other voice on the line. "Not much just leaving my last install and fuck you should have seen the smoking hot bitch that lives there. Stood about 5'6 125lbs, dark brown almost black hair down past her shoulders, blue eyes and perfect lips made for pleasure. Breasts while not huge were just perfect, an ass that just makes your dick hard and legs that were nice tan and sexy." He heard the other guy laugh and say, "Really was she that hot or you just bullshitting me?" Steve said in a very serious and exited voice, "Mike I'm totally serious she is the hottest bitch I have seen in a long time and makes Hailey Marshall look like a poor mans prize. But hang on you haven't heard the best part." Mike replied on the other end, "Don't tell me some crazy story she tried to seduce you or something". Steve laughed, "Well, I don't know she opened the door wearing nothing but a tiny pair of shorts and a little no sleeve tee shirt thing looking all sexy and dude she kept covering them up with her arms but those nipples were playing peekaboo just begging me to suck them. But then she changed into jeans and a regular tee shirt so I don't know if she was just getting her kicks teasing me or what to make of it. I left my card anyways just in case." " Come on man she wasn't hitting on you because your not rich and your an ugly SOB", both men laughed at this and Mike asked, "What was her name anyways?" Looking back down at the work order Steve replied, "Annabeth Hamilton". There was a pause on the other end, "Annabeth Hamilton you have to be shitting me." Confused Steve inquired, "What is that supposed to mean she someone from around here you know I'm fairly new to town." Mike's answer came back immediately, "Yeah I know her, went to school with her, and you aren't wrong she is smoking hot lets meet for lunch and I will tell you all about Ms. Hamilton."

 

[Rick345]

Keeping an eye on the clock the school day drools on.. His voice is deep and resonant discussing the ins and outs of the Electoral College. Given it was an election year the school board decided the students should have a basic understanding of how a president is elected. Early in the day Rob had taken off his suit coat and rolled up his sleeves.

It was 2:30 and his gray coat still hung over the back of his chair, school let out a 3:00 the students were restless the sounds of the TV crews setting up their equipment distracted them.. Fork River seldom garners attention from the outside world but today Marshall Real Estate in the person of Hailey Marshall herself will be presenting a sizable donation to the school’s athletic department.

“In 1790 the very first election in this country was about to be held and states with less population were worried states with larger populations such as Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts would control Congress, and states fewer people like New Hampshire, Delaware, and Georgia would have no power whatsoever. So after much debate, a compromise was reached. Each state would have two electors and one additional elector for every fifty-five thousand of the population a state contained. In that election, George Washington won all sixty-nine electoral votes and one-hundred percent of the popular vote twenty-eight thousand and eight in all. Can anyone tell me how many electoral votes we have today? And how many it takes to win the presidency?”

Ring!

“Oh, you all were saved by the bell. Read pages 235-260, there will be a test Monday on everything we’ve covered over the last two weeks.”

The rustle of books and the squeaking of chairs sliding across the floor-filled room followed and the tramping of feet, but within minutes everything was silent.

His stomach was uneasy was it the chili he had for lunch or the thought of meeting Hailey in just a few minutes? He didn’t know and sat down and pulled the paper out of his desk, outlines he’d need to prepare the test for Monday. It was 3:25 he threw on his coat and tightened and checked his president tie for chili stains. A tie he bought on Amazon that has navy blue rectangles on a white background each imprinted with the presidential seal.

He throws on his coat and quickly makes his way toward the gym. Even though it was September the heat hit him like a ton of bricks when he opened the door to cut across the grounds to the gym. Luckily it was only fifty yards before he reached the gymnasium door. Swinging it open there was the welcome feel of air-conditioning.

As soon as the door opens he spots Ms Hobbs and rushes to her side. Dressed professionally and always every hair in place.

“Has the guest on honor arrived? I didn’t see a golden carriage outside.”, caught her blueish-gray eyes, knowing full well if they flashed green he was in for a scolding.

 

[LillyNLace]

Hailey stepped out of the nondescript van carefully checking for any prying eyes but there wasn't a single bystander to be seen. The van had been parked a few blocks away from the High School not in a true alley but more of service road away from most pedestrian and auto traffic. The van belonged to one of the local news stations she spent a lot of money with for advertising her real estate services and they always painted her business endeavors in a very positive light or covered any donations she made to various charities. While not that charitable by nature it was the price of doing business a little donation bought a considerable amount of good will from the common people as she thought of many of the citizens of her home town Fork River. This good will also served as potential voters for her husband as time drew ever closer for his first political campaign just the first of several as she had drawn it up in her mind. First would be the mayors office, then either a legislatures seat or States Attorney General and then Governor. But patience was key and Hailey was shrewd, calculating, patient and most of all ruthless when it came to getting what she wanted. She had spent to many years grooming her husband for his big political debut and todays appearance and donation to the school was just one more small investment towards those goals.

Hailey hurried around the corner to a black 2024 Mercedes Benz S class her husband had dropped 137,000 on a few months ago as a birthday present for her. Once inside she checked the freshly applied makeup applied by the makeup artist in the van. The reason for the cloak and dagger to simply get her makeup applied was all for appearance's as she wanted to look good in front of the bright lights of the camera without everyone knowing. Camera lights can cause makeup to shine or show oil and sweat on the skin, distort colors and make her appear pale and that just wasn't acceptable. She also didn't want to be seen as overdoing her makeup like some common trollop or barfly. So she had placed a call to the station's manager and insisted on this little secret rendezvous with the mobile makeup and hair station usually reserved for much larger events. The hair stylist and makeup artist assured her that her blonde hair was perfect with gentle waves that engulfed her shoulders was shiny and looked perfect. That the makeup was a great contrast to her tanned skin, and her lipstick was the right shade in relation to her pearly white perfect teeth. Hailey stood 5'8 and weighed in at a 138lbs with full hips and breasts that had been enhanced by one of the best breast augmentation surgeons in the country a few years back. She had green eyes with pouty lips and a rather narrow chin and small nose and while pretty she had the look of a predator and always had trouble playing a sweet and caring woman.

Hailey drove an extra two blocks away from the school so she could take a route that would bring her in from a different direction and stop directly in front of the school. A place that caused her great frustration while she was in school there. Always having to play second fiddle to Anna who the town thought could do no wrong. Hailey of course was smart enough to know that if you directly challenged Anna that would backfire and end up painting her as a bitter rival who was just trying to be a bitch. So she played the good friend and an actual friendship of sorts did develop it was still a cautious alliance at best, "Keep your friends close and your enemies closer" type of situation. But now Anna was off only god knew where with that wannabe rockstar husband of hers. In fact she had heard some juicy rumors that things weren't going so well for little miss Anna and nothing pleased her more. Her parents had even now abandoned the town and it was her Hailey Marshall that filled the void of the social elite in the area that was left when the Hamilton's jumped ship. Oh how the mighty had fallen she thought as she lightly walked up the steps to the main door of the school. Her face bore a big smile as she entered the school wearing a new Armani midi dress and Christian Louboutin pumps. She didn't carry a purse or even a small clutch and the only jewelry she wore was her wedding ring and a Van Cleef watch. She needed to appear successful without appearing to boast, sexy but not slutty, business minded but still playful and fun and she had learned how to play a crowd. How you present yourself was so important and she knew that from a very young age. She hated to admit it but some of this knowledge had been gained from being around Anna for all those years what pissed her off was how Anna did it without trying. How people just loved her, gravitated to her but yet she had to work at it.

Walking around to the side entrance of the gym which would lead her a little area where she would make her entrance and let the games begin. She would be there with the Principle Mrs. Hobbs the testy middle aged principal that was more than willing to do whatever Hailey requested. Especially after she had set her up with an unbelievable deal on a new home that she could never afford on her and her husbands salary. She was also about to privately donate a large sum to get her elected to the local Board of Education. The other participant was none other than Rob Clark the current High School Football coach who had once been Anna's little puppet who everyone but Anna could see had a crush on her. But she had left him like she left everyone else in her life and she was now stuck with trying to manage him. While they were friendly with one another they weren't friends and she often relied on Mrs. Hobbs to keep him in check as he was one of the minority voices against her real estate developments. With a flourish she walked through the door where as was only fitting everyone was waiting on her the star of the show.

 

[Rick345]

Out of the corner of his eye, Rob catches a glimpse of Hailey making her entrance. Giving the slightest tug on the sleeve of his boss's pink satin blouse of his boss Rob nods his head in Hailey’s direction and whispers, “Looks like the princess Hailey has arrived.” his lips curl into a smirk.

Despite himself, he finds Hailey attractive, the way the light blue material hugged her figure accented the effortless sway of her hips. The way she sashayed toward him and her low-cut neckline showing ample cleavage mesmerized Rob.. He may have hated her but he was still a man. He quickly cut his eyes away toward Ms. Hobbs before Hailey notices his stare. He didn’t want to seem creepy.

Reminding himself regardless of what he thought of Hailey Marshall he was here to represent the school and its athletic department. Standing quietly he wondered how Ms Hobbs would start the ceremony. As he stands relaxed his arms hanging closely at his sides. His fingertips absentmindedly lightly drummed his thigh. He likes an automated teaching style and the constant action on the football field standing still and waiting wasn't his thing.

 

[LillyNLace]

Mrs. Hobbs glanced over at Coach Clark who was fidgeting like some school boy called to the principals office after being caught peeking into the girls locker room. She knew he wasn't happy about having to stand here and show gratitude to Hailey Marshall. But that was just to damn bad the school needed the money and more importantly his athletic department needed the money. To many people didn't donate at all leaving the school to fight for scraps given to them by the city, county and state governments. If they did donate it was chump change compared to what Mrs. Marshall was doing today and she had one more big surprise that was going to really piss him off. He had been asking for a new field house, locker room, and weight room for the team since he took over as head coach. It had originally been in the budget when they made built the new addition a few years ago but there had been only enough to build a new locker room for the visiting team on their side of the field as the old one had leaked and smelled of only god knows what. So after talking to Mrs. Marshall she had decided to provide the needed funding to get the job done. That wasn't the part he would hate that part was the fact today she would announce that besides donating the funding they would also be naming the new facilities, "The Marshall Athletic Complex" in honor of their benefactor.

Dianna Hobbs had recently turned 50 years old and her husband was a county home inspector and she had come to know Mrs. Marshall through her husband. While they didn't really socialize that much with one another outside of a few school functions she considered her a friend. In fact it was Hailey that helped her and her husband purchase by giving them a really good deal and putting in a very gracious word to the bank manager in working out a loan with a low enough interest rate they could afford. Mrs. Marshall had also purchased their old home at a more than fair price which gave them enough for an excellent down payment. Coach Clarks sometimes obvious disdain for Mrs. Marshall irked her but she figured it went back to some high school rivalry between him and Mrs. Marshall's husband Bo. Most likely the fact that Bo ended up married to her while he was still single, alone and just the coach of a high school football team.

She gave Coach Clark a quick look towards the doors as they opened and Mrs. Marshall entered. The look told him he had best behave himself and she didn't want to see anything but smiles on his face and hear thank you coming out of his mouth. Principal Hobbs turned and greeted Hailey as she neared them and they politely shook hands and only briefly watched the interaction between Coach Clark and Mrs. Marshall before stepping to the podium to start the event.

Tapping the microphone to make sure it was on she placed one hand on each side of the podium and began to speak. "Ladies and gentleman of the press, officials from the City of Fork River, and alumni I'm here today to introduce someone that really doesn't need any introduction around here. She has done so much for our community as a lifelong resident, alumni and business owner. Through numerous charitable donations made by her and her wonderful husband Bo Marshall they have built a playground in the city park, installed a bike path along the river, put lights up on some of our darkest streets, helped to fund meals and outings for our senior citizens, was instrumental in helping us secure funding for the school addition and most recently started a program to provide summer activities here at the school for children who's parents are at work.

Mrs. Hobbs paused as people applauded and she turned to face Mrs. Marshall applauding her as well. As the room began to settle she continued on with the announcement. I stand before you today with a news that will bring smiles and pride to our town and school for years to come. So with great pleasure I present Mrs. Hailey Marshall of Marshall Real Estate to continue the announcement. Mrs. Hobbs turned and faced Hailey as she clapped and stepped to the side of the podium.

 

[Rick345]

After a glance toward Dianna Rob forces a smile he could read her like a book. His smile at other times and in different companies would come spontaneously and naturally. But he was still thinking about his morning run and how much Fork River has changed, in his opinion, not for the better.

At least I don’t have to see her name or come face-to-face with her husband every day. That would be torture. He often takes a run through the woods avoiding Marshall Meadows and Hailey Haven altogether. That thought brought a genuine smile to his face.. Smiling toward Hailey as she approaches giving her a slight nod and a thumbs up as she lays her laptop on the podium and opens it. Her slim fingers smoothly caress the keys under the screen behind her flashes a blank blue screen with a photo of the stature of the black dolphin dead center..

Attending staff meetings over the past two weeks he knew Marshall Real Estate plans to donate a large sum of money to the Athletic Department but has no idea for what or exactly how much is being donated. I guess she is about to let the cat out of the bag, he thinks to himself..While versions of a new weight room, new tackling sleds, and new stadium lighting dance in his head.

 

[LillyNLace]

Hailey, paused as the crowded applauded enthusiastically for her. She wanted to squeeze every last second out of this moment as she flashed big smile trying to make eye contact with everyone in the audience. Looking several times directly at the tv camera without having the appearance of staring them down. It wasn't for her egotistical side she was doing this, though she did enjoy it, but sowing the seeds of good will to sprout at some point in the future. Then hopefully her husband would harvest those seeds just over a year later as votes in the mayoral election.

As Hailey stepped forward she glanced at Coach Rob and gave him a little smile. She knew his brain would try and interrupt the meaning of her smile debating within his head was it just a smile? A smile that meant she was excited about helping him and the football team or was it a smile that meant something intimate. The truth of the matter Hailey had considered at one point hitting on Rob in high school simply because he was such a close friend of Anna but she had set her sites set on a much higher mark. But now that she had hit that mark in the form of her husband Bo Marshall himself then perhaps he might be a fun for a roll in the hay. The only reason this honestly had come to mind was her husbands little secret problem. He had to take several of those little blue pills even to have a chance of getting it up long enough to satisfy her in the bedroom. Her husband didn't really mind her flings perhaps he didn't like it but he understood. That they were just that flings, that she was going to be the one to put him in the mayors office and eventually the state capital. A little romp for pleasures sake didn't mean anything. But it wouldn't do for her to get caught as there was to much at stake for her husbands political career plus Anna was no longer around for her to truly enjoy the conquest. She knew that Anna would not approve of Rob sleeping with her and that would of been half the fun she should of done it long ago but she supposed that ship had sailed.

She opened the laptop with Rob only a half step behind her as she clicked a few icons readying the slide show. "Thank you for that wonderful welcome that I don't deserve, Mrs. Hobbs and all of our wonderful teachers and staff here at Fork River are the true hero's. How about one more round of applause for everything they do in teaching and guiding the future of this town each and every day!" She spoke to the crowd in the sweetest southern belle voice she could muster. She turned and clapped herself this time as she made eye contact and gave a quick nod to Mrs. Hobbs. then to Rob.

The applause waned and then fell away and Hailey began to speak once more. "I have the pleasure of standing before you today to make a grand announcement. As you are aware when the new addition to the high school was planned there was also plans for a new locker room, weight room, meeting room, offices, visitors locker room and some field improvement for the football team. But as you are also probably aware due to the ever changing costs in construction we had to make a hard choice. The visitors locker room was in poor shape with leaks which had lead to a mildew and molding issue in the ceiling. We didn't have the extra funding to give our beloved football team new modern facilities and we could no longer allow our visitors to use that locker room jeopardizing their health. So the decision was made to raze it to the ground and build a new visitors locker room."

Hailey clicked a button as the lights dimmed and an image appeared on the screen behind her. It showed the new visitor's locker room from the outside with a modern look with a metal roof. She clicked once more and the next image was of inside the locker room. "As you can see we spared no expense here as it includes extra padded and reclinable seats for each visiting team member, USB ports for them to charge cell phones, lockers to store all their personal belongings with an electronic lock, as well as a meeting area for the visiting team and coaches." She clicked the button for another slide showing the shower area which featured extra large shower heads, a cold tub large enough for multiple players, and a row of pristine sinks with built in hair dryers. Hailey continued the visual tour of the visitors locker room for several more minutes narrating each slide as she cycled through them.

"The idea of our visitors having this beautiful new locker room to make use of while our own team was still using the facilities built in the 50's that was being held together with duck tape. Now we all know that there is nothing wrong with duck tape as it is one of the seven wonders of the southern world." She waited for the laughter to settle down from her little joke before continuing. "So after doing some careful consideration my husband Bo Marshall and I made a decision. Unfortunately he was unable to be here due to a court appearance in Mobile but he will issue a statement at a later date. Bo and I had originally agreed to donate 30,000 dollars to help fund this project. But the more we thought about the more we wanted this to happen sooner than later. So Coach Clark I want to announce that we will be funding a new athletic complex that will include new locker room, meeting rooms, coaches offices, a modern film room, weight room and performance center plus new field lighting, a new press box, two new scoreboards as well as a new drainage system for the field itself!"

She watched Coach Clark as she announced this with a big smile while those in attendance once more broke out into a large applause. As the room quieted once more she began to show proposed images of how the finished construction would look and explain each one of them. "Now our own Principle Hobbs and the school board gave me quite the honor when they came forward wanting approval for the name of our new athletic facilities, it will be called, "The Marshall Athletic Complex" or "MAC" for short. My husband as you know played 5 years on this field counting his junior varsity and varsity career and for it to have the Marshall name seems fitting but is also a great honor that neither he nor myself could ever imagine. In fact to honor all of the great players we have had step onto that field and give their blood sweat and tears we have one more addition to announce. A large sculpture of our teams mascot, a falcon, in the middle of a powerful dive will be placed out front and beneath it will be the name of every letterman we have ever had with the years and position they played with space to add more in the future. Ringing the Falcon will be smaller statues of the players that have won state or national honors including my husband Bo." As she said this, Hailey clicked for a new slide and the image of her husband in statue form rolling out of the pocket with two defenders in hot pursuit looking downfield holding the ball high ready to throw downfield.

More applause came from the crowd as Hailey beamed with excitement. She turned to Coach Clark and put a hand on top of his leaning fairly close but away from the microphone, "You and your team deserve this coach I was more than happy to do this for you". She gave his hand a squeeze and then gave him a very quick wink. Mrs. Hobbs stepped up to the podium with Hailey and Coach Clark, "At this time I would like to open it up to questions for Mrs. Marshall or Coach Clark".

 

[Rick345]

God I hope this doesn’t take long’, Rob mumbles under his breath. It is hot and humid and just his luck he was the only one standing directly in the sun. He can feel the sun pricking the top of his head and his hair becoming damp.

He greets Hailey with a smile. Her smile caught him off-guard it seemed more than a casual smile even a bit flirtatious. As she took her place at the podium she was right in front of him. Unfortunately, she was too short to shade his face from the sun. As he looks down trying to escape looking directly into the sun the silhouette of Hailey’s shapely legs grace his view. Allowing his eyes to travel from her well-formed calf's to her well-toned thighs until they locked onto her perfectly shaped ass. It was evident from Rob’s vantage point she certainly got her money’s worth from her gym membership. He couldn’t be sure but she seemed to be going commando.

Her voice over the speaker startled him a bit, and his eyes shot forward as he listened to Hailey her voice so smooth butter would melt in her mouth. She certainly knew how to stir a crowd as they pointed and awed at the images behind him.. As the breeze shifted he smelled her fragrance as it floated in the air.. It had a hint of magnolia with a heady underlying tone that aroused his hormones. His eye lowing themselves to her sexy bottom as his dick started to awaken and rise.. embarrassed he shifts his stance trying to hide the growing bulge in his pants.

Then he heard it, the description of the stature of “Forks” the Falcon and Bo, and the name "The Marshall Athletic Complex".. WTF echoes in his mind as his blood pressure rises. The school needs funds and the Athletic Department could certainly use the upgrades. It would be great to win another state championship it had been four years since the Fork River Falcons won the title and the alumni wasn’t happy. There has been talking that perhaps he wasn’t up to the task, that is never a good sign. That aside his boys deserved the best.. But why the fuck did they have to call it the Marshall Athletic Complex keep ringing in his head.. To be reminded of Bo Marshall every single day till he retired why why why.. To come face to face with him at the annual alumni meeting was enough to see his life-size likeness every day.. His doctor will make a fortune on blood pressure pills..

Get a grip Rob the school would be the envy of every county in the conference. His boys deserved this.. Every once in and while you gotta take one for the team..

 

[Rick345]

Susan Atkins channel 7, Mrs Hobbs you were Mrs Marshall’s English teacher what kind of student was she?

 

[LillyNLace]

Mrs. Hobbs, stepped forward closer to the microphone a bit acting a bit surprised but knowing that the first few questions were all scripted. She had spent the previous night going over her response in her head. She surveyed the crowd for a second before her eyes settled on Mrs. Atkins from the channel 7 news who also happened to be a former student and class mate of Hailey's. "Mrs. Marshall, was always an excellent student diligent in her studies and even back then always one to help others. She was popular and friends with everyone and was always involved in some school fund raiser or church event. Even back then everyone knew she would grow up into a fine woman, wife, friend and that she would find success through her hard work and dedication" Mrs. Hobbs, paused after finishing her statement then took a step back from the microphone.

 

[Rick345]

Jeb Early WKFR 97 Mrs. Marshall is this donation meant to boost your husband’s chance in the November Mayoratorial election?

 

[LillyNLace]

As Jeb stepped up to the podium she once more knew what was coming as he was in her back pocket not unlike he had been in her pants about a year ago. She had been in Mobile for a big real estate conference and Jeb was covering a story there and they bumped into one another in a local bar. Getting Jeb into the bedroom was easy despite the fact he was married though Hailey had never met his wife. Both Jeb and his wife had only moved to Alabama from Missouri a few years back so he had no real history with her or the town. He had moved to Fork River after his old radio station had closed and Fork River needed a new station manager who could also do field work as it was a news station, political talk radio during the day and a country music station at night. It was also the station that broadcast all of Fork River's football games as well and he was the color commentator during football as he played football at a junior college. So the reasoning to get him in her corner was simply she could have better control of the attitude of the news station in Fork River and he could help squash any negative stories that might arise about her or her husband. So she had used her female guile to get him into bed and she had to admit it he was quite enjoyable. A week later she had a private lunch with him and explained the situation of what she wanted him to do and what might happen if he didn't.

Hailey listened intently to Jeb's question, "Now Jeb honey, this isn't about my family at all today it is all about this town, the school, Coach Clark and most of all our players. Today is their day to be excited and learn just how much this town supports each and everyone of them. Today is about showing our team just how much pride we have in them and how hard they work win or lose." The crowd erupted in applause once more and she had to wait until it quieted to finish. "But I will add that while my husband hasn't announced anything about running for mayor we all know that the current Mayor is retiring after this term and who better to lead then someone who was born here, grew up here, a member of the founding families, football star, college football star and now successful attorney here within the town. A man with an impeccable reputation and a deep love for the citizens of this town. A man who has taken more cases pro bono than any attorney anywhere in the area simply because he cares. But ultimately if he decides to run we will call a press conference for the announcement and today is not that day. So I want everyone to celebrate our wonderful coaches and players today!" She turned and faced Coach Clark as she began to applaud for him and the crowd followed suit along with Mrs. Hobbs.

 

[Rick345]

Coach Clark, what are the Falcon's chances of regaining the state championship this season?

Rob hears his name and steps up to the podium, wiping his brow. “Jeb it’s a hot one out here turning up the heat on this old man. We lost our star quarterback, as you all know Ronnie Teal graduated last year with honors and is attending Notre Dame. But we have a fine team, that’s not to say I’m as nervous as a long tail cat in a room full of rockin’ chairs whenever we go up against teams like Foley or Hoover.

Hopefully, none of our players will suffer an injury this year. Can I get an Amen?”

Crowd: Amen

“And hopefully”, pausing just a moment to glance toward Mrs. Hobbs, “, None of our players who be placed on academic probation”, the last syllable falls from his mouth as he flashes a smile at Mrs. Hobbs.

“All kidding aside let us remember that winning a state championship gives us braggin’ rights but the true aim of Fork River High is to provide our kids with the best education possible so they have the best chance at success in the future. Having said that with Miss Marshall’s generous donation and all the fine facilities the MAC will provide we have the best chance of a state championship than we ever had.”

Grabbing Hailey’s hand and thrusting their joined hands in the air he continues, “Let’s give another round of applause to Miss Hailey Marshall.”

A thunderous applause erupts from the crowd.

In a whisper and turning toward Hailey he speaks, “Listen to that they love you.”

releasing Hailey’s hand he motions for the crowd to quiet, “Jeb the short answer is with team spirit like that shown today how can we lose, Go Falcons!”

Glancing at her watch Mrs Hobbs approaches the podium, “Coach you certainly know how to stir up a crowd”, she says with a grin, “I believe we have time for one last question.”, scanning the room for hands she sets her jaw when she spots that pesky reporter from the Gazette. Always trying to dig up dirt on her beautiful little town she just rubs the principal the wrong way. Praying another hand raises but she is forced to call on Joan Dority.

“Joan the floor is yours”

“Joan Dority Fork River Gazette is it true the floor tiles in Marshall Meadows were cheap Chinese knockoffs that contain twice acceptable levels of Asbestos?”

Under her breath, Mrs. Hobbs mutters only one word, “Shit” as she catches Hailey’s steely gaze aimed directly at her.
___________

 

[LillyNLace]

Hailey remained cheerful and exuberant on the outside her smile never leaving her face. Inside however she was seething wondering how this bitch even got in here let alone allowed to ask her a question especially one like this something would have to be done about little Ms. Dority.

Stepping up to the microphone she looked at the camera's directly, "I honestly can't speak on this topic as there is on going litigation however, that me nor my builder was aware of how those tiles were constructed. It is our contention that the builder's supplier was not forthcoming in regards to the asbestos which has lead to us filing a lawsuit in Mobile. We are currently working closely with our customers to resolve the issue as well as their well being and satisfaction is of the highest priority plus it is the only moral action to take. We have since changed builders as well as checked into each and everyone of the suppliers that we use for construction materials. But I'm afraid I can say no more at this time on the topic. But thank you for considering this to be more important on this day then our school and football players I'm sure they all appreciate your priorities never let a happy story get in the way of a headline to sell papers and get clicks your dedication should be commended. If you have any further questions please feel free to contact my attorney if you call my office they will provide you with the number."

Hailey smiled widely once more at the crowd not wanting to leave the podium just yet she didn't want to appear she was running away afraid of any more questions. Here lawyer from Mobile had already instructed her exactly what to say if the topic came up and she was ready. The truth of the matter was the law suit was more for show but everyone would forget all about this in a few months when it came time to announce her husband's run at the mayor's office.

 

[Rick345]

Mrs. Hobbs sheepishly approaches the microphone and with the briefest glance toward Hailey, she tries to judge how much hot water she’s in before gripping the podium and with a heavy sigh saying, “Miss Dority thank you for your question, and I’m sure we’ll read all about it in the Fork River Mullet Wrapper excuse me I mean the Gazette, but everyone that’s all the time we have for questions. We all want to return to the comfort of our air-conditioners.

I want to remind everyone that the second Saturday of the month is our school board meeting at which time we’ll discuss if Harper Lee’s, ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ should continue to be part of this school curriculum.. With that, this ends the ceremony. Drive safely..

Meanwhile, at a renovated warehouse a white Ford panel truck squeals its breaks as it pulls into the bay.. Switching off the engine Steve’s stomach growls as he swings open the door and hops out of the van. He quickly walks down a narrow hallway to the spartan break room. Consisting of two card tables each surrounded by four folding chairs. A counter with a recessed sink in the center and an old microwave resting on the far left end of the counter. Next to that an old refrigerator that at one time may have been snow white but is now stained a faded yellowish-tan from years of cigarette smoke.

Mike already halfway through his sandwich pats the table top urging Steve to join him. As Steve cracks open the fridge and retrieves a brown paper bag. Then nods toward Mike while popping two quarters in a vending machine. With a familiar plop a ‘Mountain Dew ‘ settles into the machine’ tray. Steve’s hand shoots out and grabs the cold green plastic bottle and twists off its top while sitting down across from Mike.

“So my lad you met the famous Annabeth Hamilton.”, says Mike as he uses the back of his hand to wipe droplets of Diet Coke from his beard.

“What do you mean famous, all I know is my dick would fit perfectly between her tits”, replies Steve before taking a long swallow of Mountain Dew, “It is hot as fuck out there. “

“Good luck with that buddy, she was always the good girl in high school. She was the embodiment of Sandra Dee”, said Mike while resting his drink on his beer belly, before wolfing down another bite of his ham and cheese.

“She just hasn’t met a real man.”, scarfing down his first bite of sandwich.

“Yeah where’s she going to find one of them in the Podunk town?”, says Mike, “But there are photos of her on the internet”

 

[LillyNLace]

A smile creeps across Steve's face upon hearing Mike say, "But there are photos of her on the internet'. "Is that so and what kind of photo's on the internet? If it is her displaying her salad at some fancy restaurant or posing in front of the Eifel Tower with a guy not interested." Mike laughed, "Oh no much better than that here let me show you."

Steve watched from across the table as Mike began a search on his phone and a few seconds later he slipped his phone across the table. Steve looked at his friend's phone and eyes widened about in surprise, "Is this real or fake" he asked with a little disbelief in his voice? The phone showed an online article from Loudwire which covered news, interviews and other information from the world of rock music. At the top of the article was a picture of the woman he had seen standing on stage wearing tight dark red leather pants, a sleeveless leather lace up shirt that showed more than it covered holding a red and black guitar playing live in front of an audience. The title of the article read, "Cithara Destined For Greatness" under the picture a small caption read, "Cithara playing a solo at a sold out show in Toronto".

Steve scrolled down a bit more scanning the article, "Lead singer Cithara (stage name) of the band Carnal Desires is one or the rock worlds newest and brightest stars that is just now beginning to reach her zenith. Her hard driving rhythms are both technical and just plain nasty. Her solo's pull from the influence of Yngwie Malmsteen and Stevie Ray Vaughn and form a new sound of innovation that will move any rock lovers soul." Her name, Cithara meaning basically guitar in Greek matches her husband's name Calix meaning handsome in Greek who is also the lead singer for the band."

Steve continues to read as the article talks about some of the awards she has received and numerous lists of top 25 best female guitarists in the world lists her name has appeared on. It gives a brief history of the band and lauds how creative her work is and how the sky is the limit for her and the band. Steve pushes the phone back to Mike, "I'm not familiar with the band but I'm a country music guy but pretty impressive but I thought you had something more than the fact she was famous." Mike laughed, "Just wait I was just introducing you so to speak".

After a few more seconds he once more handed the phone back to Steve with a new picture. This one caused Steve's mouth to gape open as it showed Anna standing on a yacht wearing nothing but a tiny bikini bottom. Though taken from the shore a long ways away by some paparazzi one could make out her nicely shaped bosom in the photo. "Slide the screen up for more", Mike told Steve. As he did so more photo's of Anna on the boat wearing the bikini with both top and bottom appeared on the screen these were taken just before the boat left the dock and was at a much closer distance.

"Damn that is one fine piece of ass right there would have loved to been on that boat with her." Mike agreed with his friend before saying, "The only way you and I could be on that boat would be if we won the lottery. "According to the website this was taken aboard some rich guy's yacht that paid the band to play at their son's 18th birthday" replied Mike. Steve continued eyeing the phone zooming in and out before laying the phone down and snapping a few pics on his own phone. "Sorry just something for when I get lonely" he said with a big laugh. "Hang on buddy I got one more thing to show you first before you get to excited."

Taking the phone back Steve pulled up a different website touched the screen a few times and handed it back once more. This time instead of a picture was video with no title, hitting play the video was taken from the perspective of a guy getting a blowjob. Though it was dark and not the best quality it did indeed appear to be Anna though she never looked directly at the camera. She was slowly swallowing every inch of this guy as you could hear the guy moaning a bit. The guys hand held her dark hair in a knot as she expertly went down on him while on her knees. But to say it was Anna for sure was nearly impossible though there was quite a resemblance.

"Supposedly that is some fan at an after show party that is the lucky guy in the video at least the person who posted says that it is though it was posted under some anonymous name.

Steve continued on to explain that the band had either broken up or taken a temporary hiatus and that Anna and her husband had gotten a divorce. The rumors swirled that Anna had cheated multiple times and was even caught in bed with two guys from some other band by her husband. There were other rumors of her just being some sex nymphomaniac to the point she had been offered big money to do a porn flick which Mike had desperately sought to find with no luck proving its existence.

"There are other pictures of her wearing next to nothing doing a few adds for guitar companies as well as a swimsuit company and negligee company just google her stage name Cithara in negligee and you will find them."

"Do you believe all those rumors" asked Steve? Mike took a long moment to answer, "I honestly don't know for sure. I mean she was Ms. good two shoes here but being in a rock band touring all over I can't see how that doesn't bring out one's wild side. Plus the photo of her topless is certainly her as are the skimpy clothing adds. The video I'm not sure but maybe some of the other stuff probably not but I have always believed where there is smoke there is fire so yeah I think she has a wild side most in this town is totally unaware of. I mean I would have never believed she would have posed in negligee

 

[Rick345]

Steve continues to scan the net while finishing his sandwich.

“Mike I thought ‘Anna’ that’s her name right, would be some Hollywood hottie ready to put out for anybody? Shit, she sounds like some kind’s preacher’s daughter. I bet her legs are closed up so tight you’d need the jaws of life to pry’m open.. I don’t think the chick giving head was even her. What a boner killer.”

“Thought you told me she was coming on to you, some Romeo you are”, Mike laughing so hard at his joke Diet Coke squirts out his nose.

Steve found the lingerie photos and they raised an eyebrow but nothing else as he studied them. He had seen more risque pictures in a Walmart weekly flier. Absentmindedly he clicks on a link, “Calix’s Zoi’”

“Mike what’s 'call its Zoo eye'?”, shoving his phone into Mike’s face..

“Call its Zoo eye? That’s Calex Zoe dumb ass. I think it means Handsome’s life or a handsome life or something like that. Why?”, Mike replies.

“It's a blog with some pictures of that Anna chick in it.. There’s a story of her doing a four-way the story is written by Calex who seems to be her husband.. Oh, correction her ex-husband. They’re divorced because he caught her fuck’n around..” explaining to Mark what he found.

“It's an interview on what leads to their divorce let me read it. He husband states, ‘I arrived home early and there were several cars in the drive so I went inside to see what was up. I heard noises from the bedroom so I went to check it out. I saw Cithara splayed out on the bed, a dick in each hand another redheaded chick sitting on her face, and some other big-titted ho ramming a humongous dildo up her ass. My damn stage manager for god sake, there’s no loyalty in this business.

Our wedding vows meant nothing to her. Absolutely nothing. She was squealing like a fuck’n sow in heat. I can still see that big-titted bitch ramming a dildo up her ass as she’s screaming like a banshee, ‘Harder Candy, harder oh fuck, fuck my ass harder and make me your bitch’. She is whore.. “

“So much for your goody two shoes theory Mark, I know she was checking me out I knew it. Given half a chance I’d make her twat sing”

 

[LillyNLace]

Anna arose the next morning thankful to not wake up to someone pounding on her door and not remembering any disturbing dreams. After showering and slipping into a pair of straight leg jeans that fit just right and were well worn in, simple black halter top and sneakers. She pulled her hair back into a pony tale and only put on the most basic of makeup for a day of shopping and getting her new home in order. After dressing she sat on her back deck overlooking the lake and began to shop on her laptop now that she had internet.

After about an hour of ordering several things for the house online she closed the laptop and started inside when her phone chimed signaling someone was at her gate. She opened the app and could see a burly looking guy looking down at the camera from a large vehicle. "Hello", Anna said into the phone. A gruff voice came through her speaker, "Yes we are with Country Wide movers with a delivery for a Mrs. Annabeth Hamilton." She wanted to correct him that it was Ms. and not Mrs. but just let it go. "Yes, I'm opening the gate now." She keyed the open button to allow them in and walked to her front porch to see a large moving truck pull up in front of her house. Her drive not only lead to the carport but also circled allowing the moving truck to drive around and back up to her front porch which had six steps. Three large guys hopped out of the truck dressed professionally and the driver walked towards her with a clipboard. They greeted one another and he asked to check her ID to confirm they were delivering to the correct person which she provided for them. He scanned it with a hand held device as the other two guys opened the back door and extended a ramp to the top of the landing on her porch.

Anna spent almost an hour showing them where to place the few things she had brought with her and was initially confused when she saw the size of the truck but found out that they load more than one delivery if at a time if possible. Once it was all accounted for and she inspected everything for damage with the driver she signed the hand held device with a stylus agreeing it was all there and undamaged. He then had her sign a paper on his clipboard and tore off a copy for her to keep as well. Anna apologized for not having anything to offer them in the way of water or Gatorade as she had just moved in then felt dumb as they probably knew that already. She grabbed three bills from her purse and tipped each man a 20 which they explained was not necessary but she insisted and they didn't put up much of a fight.

Shortly after the departure of the moving crew Anna grabbed her keys, took the top off her black Jeep Wrangler and headed shopping. She had just bought the Jeep after her divorce having owned one in high school but sold it when she started heavily touring with the band. Her ex always hated it telling her it made her look like a backwoods redneck. He always poked fun about her accent which was certainly southern and even now after being away for a few years it was still recognizable. He also made jokes about her being from Alabama to the point of being cruel at times. Most of the time she would try to shrug it off knowing if she got mad it would only encourage him. He liked to push her buttons and elicit a reaction from her and while he had done it some in the beginning it only became worse as the band became more and more successful. Along with the cruel jokes becoming more frequent his ego grew and grew and he hated it when she would do an interview that focused on her guitar playing and not him as the lead singer and front man of the band. It all came to a head one night when he came the closest he would ever come to hitting her. They were on tour sharing a hotel room and a reporter had seemed to be more interested in asking about her as a guitarist then him. After words when it was just the two of them he accused Anna of flirting with the guy making him think that he would get to fuck her if he focused on her. That wasn't true but the ex was convinced of it then he jumped to asking had she already snuck off and fucked him, was he any good, and how many other reporters she had seduced along the way.

Anna was so mad that she told him to go to hell and began to pack her things intending on getting another room for the night. When he had asked her where she was going Anna responded by saying, "anywhere your not". His face turned red and he grabbed both of her arms and pressed her against the wall then he drew one hand back and was on the boarder line of back handing her. Waiting for the blow to come she stared him in the face almost daring him to do it. Suddenly he released her and stormed out of the room. Anna breathed a sigh relief, felt sick and emptied her stomach contents into the toilet. They never spoke of the incident again but that was a turning point or rather the beginning of the end.

So Anna bought the Jeep as big "fuck you" to her ex and because she truly loved Jeeps. She put a little sticker on the spare tire cover that read, "All Who Wander Are Not Lost" and though not original she felt it fit her. The other was in the form of her license plate which was a vanity plate that read, "8675309" after the Tommy Tutone song "Jenny". The band had covered the song a few years ago and she always thought it was a fun guitar part plus the song was just damn catch and hard to get out of your head. She knew people reading it would most likely be singing that song for the rest of the day. Anna realized then that she would have to get her plates changed from California to Alabama soon and hoped she could retain the same vanity plate. She also wondered how badly she would stick out around Fork River with a California plate. They were used to out of state plates here on vacation but still California was a lot more rare.

Putting the Jeep into reversed she touched the screen of the entertainment console and selected a song from her Spotify list, Halestorm's "I Get Off" turned up the volume and headed out with the top off the Jeep to enjoy her day.

Making several stops at the new shopping center and spending several hours she had filled her Jeep with everything she thought she might need and was happy she had purchased the four door Jeep and not the two door smaller one. She had gotten a coffee maker first off as it was a must, found a bed and bath store and got sheets, towels, wash cloths, two lamps and numerous other things to spruce up the house. Stopping at a furniture store she was able to find several pieces of furniture that wasn't included with the sale of the home such a computer desk and entertainment stand. She paid and arranged to have them delivered as well. She had parked close enough to the store to keep an eye out for any thievery as she did have the top off with her things she had just purchased inside. Fork River was small but petty theft was not beyond a few of its citizens.

 

[LillyNLace]

As she neared her Jeep to return home she heard a female voice say, "Anna", "Anna Hamilton is that really you"? Turning to look Anna saw a woman close to her age that was rather plain not ugly but not pretty really just averaged dressed in jeans and a tee shirt holding the hand of a young girl. She looked familiar as she searched the face for recognition and then, "Lisa Stewart, Oh my god, it's been awhile." They hugged briefly before Lisa spoke again, "I didn't know you were back in town and really didn't think I would see you again considering your parents no longer live here." "I just got back yesterday actually and honestly your the first person I have seen that I know since being back."

Lisa had been on the cheerleading squad with her and Hailey and time had not been overly kind to Lisa. While she was never a knockout she was pretty but she had aged a bit and gained some weight and though not fat she definitely had put on a few pounds. "Who is this", Anna asked looking down at the small girl holding Lisa's hand. With a big smile Lisa answered, "This is Wendy my first child I have a younger son who is at his grandma's house and its Lisa Franklin now me and Alan got married a year after we graduated after I found I was pregnant with my son." Lisa rambled on about her life for a few minutes before asking more about Anna.

"So what brings you back to Fork River? I heard you were in some band or something out in LA." Anna had already prepared a response to these types of questions in her head, "I was in a band and we had been touring to the point that it was causing some tension and we all needed a break." While not the complete truth it wasn't a lie either as everyone had taken a break to figure things out. "So I was ready to get out of LA for awhile and get a little rest and relaxation and thought why not here I was always happy here growing up. So I just purchased a home as my parent's old house is being leased at the moment."

"Did you buy one in Marshal Meadows from Hailey?" Anna thought for a second before it hit home, Marshall Meadows named for Hailey's maiden name how quaint. "No, I bought one that was near completion on several acres on the lake just outside of town." Lisa's eyes got a little big, "Oh I heard about that place was supposed to be very spectacular bult by some builder from out state and designed by someone famous for designing homes. I heard it was amazing the one with the big wrought iron gate on the left as you head out of town." Anna was unaware of the home designers notoriety but made a mental note to look him up later. "Yes that would be the one." Lisa looked quite impressed, "You must have done quite well with that band then cause they were asking a pretty penny much higher than those in Marshall Meadows and those aren't cheap either but I know your family has always been well off. Anna wasn't sure if that was a dig at her or not so she ignored it, "As a band we did pretty well and I can't complain" was all she said though pretty well might be an understatement. While not as big here in the United States they were very popular in other parts of the world and her cut and royalties that continued to come in gave her a comfortable lifestyle.

"I see you aren't wearing a wedding ring did you ever get married have kids"? Smiling and wishing this conversation would come to an end Anna replied, "Married yes now divorced, kids no" was all she said. "That is to bad the divorce is bad but no kids really stinks but you still have time kids are wonderful." Anna had never truly wanted child

 

[Rick345]

The sharp yelps of two sleek blond Afghan Hounds cause the tall fit blond man in a blue polo shirt and jeans to look up from the vegetables he’s been chopping. “Mommy’s home go wait for her”

Both dogs reach the ivory-colored door in two bounds and sit silently awaiting the door to open.

Bo continues chopping the onions and pushing them into a small pile which already contains green pepper and celery before opening to oven door to check the eight-inch black cast iron pan filled with a thick chocolate brown roux. Roux is often made on a stovetop but making it in the oven is easier and Bo is all above easy. Which explains Hailey.

Grabbing an oven mitt and carefully removing the hot skillet from the oven, while watching Hailey’s black Mercedes snaking up the mile-long driveway toward their luxurious chateau-inspired mansion. Complete with a mother-in-law apartment, in-home gym, fireplace, dining room, guest room, home office, mudroom, bonus room, family room, game room, main level laundry, and a home theater— Seven bathrooms and seven bedrooms. Built on a bluff overlooking Fork River just like castles of old allowing the noble to oversee his serfs and peasants and their landholdings below.

An apron hangs down to almost his knees and covers his t-shirt which is stretched thin across his broad muscular chest. Using a slotted spoon he scoops the browned Andouille sausage from the red Dutch oven putting the perfectly browned bits of goodness into a bowl. Then his arms which haven't lost their tone and tightness from his high-school football days scoop the trinity of what people call the mixture of onions, celery, and green peppers into the pot with sizzle.

Putting down the cutting board and with a swipe of his hand, he pushes his blond hair from the gaze of his ice-blue eyes. A gaze locked on the two Afghans as their tails begin to thump against the floor as the doorknob turns. Within a moment the door swings open and Hailey steps into the kitchen. She pats the dogs, “Have you been good boys for Daddy today”
The dogs follow Hailey as she walks up and kisses Bo on the cheek.

Bo could feel the coldness of the kiss, no passion, no feelings just something Hailey did out of habit. He couldn’t blame her it had been almost two years since they had had sex. Even the little blue pills didn’t help anymore. The docs were talking about a penile implant. He couldn’t help thinking to himself, ‘Women are getting plastic tits and guys are getting plastic dicks what the fuck is the world coming to.’

“What’s ya making babe?”, asks Hailey.

“Chicken and Sausage gumbo you want a drink?”

“No!”, Hailey said emphatically, “I fuckin’ need a drink”

Reaching into the fridge Bo pulls out a half-empty bottle of Uva Mira=Chardonnay, Stellenbosch – 2021this month’s pick of the Samona Wine Club at 125 dollars a bottle, and Hailey guzzles to stuff. The two empty bottles from the night before in the trash are a testimony to her increasingly expensive habit. At least she was a horny drunk and not a mean one, count your blessings where you find them he reminds himself.

As he pours Hailey’s drink and slides it towards her, “So what’s the festive occasion hon?”

“ Joan Dority that bony ass butch body bitch from the paper started quizzing me about those cheap knockoff tiles, she knows about the asbestos, what are we going to do about her HON?”

"Don't worry about Dorty we have enough dirt on her to keep her quiet. Relax and pour yourself another drink dinner will be ready in about twenty minutes", Bo starts the rice. Bringing the water to a boil then covers it and turns it down to a simmer. Before walking behind his wife and starts to message her shoulders.

 

[Rick345]

It was almost five before Rob made it home. As soon as he got in the door he checked frige and the briefest glimpse reminded him he hadn’t been the the grocery store this week. No bread, no milk, no juice luckily the piggy wiggly was only minutes away.

So he padded his back pocket to make sure he had his wallet and headed out the door. Jumping in his truck he fires it up and within minutes is pulling into the grocery store. He wasn’t in there for two minutes when he heard, “Rob, Rob” as Lisa approached him like she was on a mission.

She comes face to face with him one kid in the buggy and another in tow.

“Rob in a million years you’ll never guess who I seen today. It was a blast from the past.”

Making his way to the bread aisle and without missing a beat he asked, “Who did you see Lisa?”

“An old crush of yours that’s who”

“An old crush what are you talkin’ about Lisa”, as he picks up a loaf of wholewheat and turns on his heel heading toward the milk case.

Cutting him off she grabs his buggy and stops him. “Rob Clark you runin’ from the law or what. When a lady is talking to you you stop and listen. Didn’t your mamma teach you any manners bless your heart.”

“I’m sorry Lisa I just want to go home and fix my supper. Now who is this woman you bumped into?”, Rob wasn’t usually so rude but he has learned from experience when Lisa has gossip you can be trapped for an hour until she relates everything you want to know and everything you didn’t want to know about the seedy underbelly of Fork River.

“So who did you see Lisa?”

From below came a small voice, “Mom can I have a Milkyway, please mom, pretty please”

“No, its almost supper time you are not going to have anything that will ruin your appetite. Rob, I’ll tell you these younguns are going to be the death of me”

“So who did you meet?”

“Look at me Rob I was never a beauty queen or anything but now I’m turning into an ugly ol’ sea-hag like God intended. If my boobs sag any lower they’ll be dragging on the floor”

“You were saying who you met up with this morning?”, Rob reaching behind her to get a gallon of 2%. While looking around her trying desperately to plan his escape.

As a kid pulls on the hem of her top.

“Oh who did I see well none other than Anna Hamilton, she says she bought that place down on the river. The one with that fancy gate, Listen Rob it's been nice chatting and all but I gotta jet. Tootles good lookin’ See ya“

With that, she was gone but he had a headache Lisa always did that to him.. He couldn't remember if there was anything else he was supposed to get. Shit, he’ll just grab some buns and hamburger meat. Wonder what Beth is doing buying a place in town.. He also wonders if she’ll even remember him. He also wonders what he wrote in the last letter that caused her to stop writing him.