A Love for all Ages (Crockett County Trilogy Book 1)

by Phillips, Brenda

  Shaking her head Maria nervously peeks at Andy seeing him staring at his beer she whispers, “I come up with different scenarios in my head but then I find fault with each one. I think it’s hopeless, I think I’m hopeless.” Picking up her beer glass she takes a sip.

  Leaning closer to Maria, Stephanie’s eyes sparkle, “I think you should go with your first thought that is usually the best choice.” Hearing Chase telling Andy about JoEllen’s diary Stephanie turns to the men. “So are we going treasure hunting tomorrow?”

  “What?” Maria rests her chin on her hand looking baffled at Stephanie.

  Laughing Stephanie explains, “We found a map for buried gold on the property. I think the men want to go dig for treasure.”

  Chase using his professional voice, “We would not dream of going without you two. We were just going over the best way to get started.” Rising from his chair, “I will go fetch the diary and the map then we can plan the details.” Rising his eyebrows comically he turns away.

  Stephanie watches Chase walk away, smiling lovingly at him. Loving him as she does Stephanie realizes Chase is distraught Steven had got inside the house. He will be blaming himself, she will need to reassure him that both she and the baby are fine. He had stayed calm and maintained the situation with his professionalism. Stephanie had watched Chase earlier in awe as he had taken control of Steven; even with Steven having the gun Stephanie knew Chase was the one in charge.

  “Maria, this was all about Union gold buried over a hundred years ago. The murders, the break-ins, the attempted murder was all for gold.” Seeing her eyes widen with shock Andy chuckles. “I didn’t believe it either when I first came here, but the facts are the facts.”

  Looking at Stephanie Maria asks, “How much gold is buried?”

  Shrugging her shoulders, “I don’t really know, everything says it’s a trunk full, it was to be the soldiers pay.”

  “Wow, so when you find it, what are you going to do with it? You will be rich, like really rich.” Fascinated Maria stares at Stephanie.

  Again she shrugs her shoulders, “I don’t know, I think if we find it we can decide then.”

  Chase returns to the table, he hands Stephanie the diary then lays the map on the table. Everyone leans closer for a better view as Chase explains, “JoEllen wrote she had the trunk buried behind the work shed.”

  “According to the map, the work shed would be out back, I have walked the property over and over since staying here and I have not seen a work shed.” Andy looks over Chase’s shoulder toward the back yard.

  “Your right, the shed is long gone; we just have to figure out where it used to be.”

  Looking at Maria Stephanie giggles, “I feel like we are in an adventure movie.”

  “Let me get this straight, we are really going to search for gold using this old drawing?” Tapping the picture Marie glances doubtfully at Andy.

  Grinning he responds, “I think it will be fun, after all it will be a good break from all the stress we have had lately.” Staring at Maria he thinks about them spending time together away from police work, them getting to know each other on a personal level. Remembering the kiss they shared earlier has excitement growing in the pit of his stomach.

  “I think we should get started about 10 o’clock that will give Stephanie time to get over her morning sickness.” Smiling at Stephanie he sees her blush. Reaching across the table Chase picks up her hand bringing it to his lips, kissing her palm. “It has been a long day, I think Stephanie needs to go upstairs and take a long bubble bath.” Rising from his chair Chase pulls Stephanie with him as he moves to the door.

  Looking over her shoulder Stephanie giggles, “I will see you two in the morning. The Sheriff has spoken.” Laughing she follows Chase inside the house.

  Upstairs in their room Stephanie sits on the side of bed as Chase begins filling the tub with water. Squaring her shoulders she stands up, walking to the bathroom door, “Chase, I have something to say and I really need you to listen to me.”

  Adjusting the water temperature he looks up, “Sure Honey, what is it?”

  Licking her lips Stephanie stands gazing at Chase. After a few seconds she blurts, “If we find the gold, I want to open a clinic in memory of Mitch.”

  Standing before her Chase envisions the most beautiful woman in the world. Placing his hands on her shoulders, “That sounds like a wonderful idea.” Chase recalls Steven ranting about Mitch wanting to open a clinic here; he understands Stephanie’s desire to honor her Brother. This wonderful woman wants to help others as her Brother had planned. “Do you want to have the clinic here at the house?”

  Shaking her head no, “I don’t know what type of clinic Mitch wanted; last I knew we were moving to California. I can only assume Mitch found out about his inheritance after we spoke. He was always making spur of the moment decisions.” Taking a breath she continues, “Mitch had worked at clinics for addictions and at regular health clinics. I want to open a health care clinic, I think our county would benefit significantly and I feel that would have been important to Mitch. He would want me to do what is best for our community.”

  Tears fill Stephanie’s eyes, “This is going to be a challenge for me and I will need your help. Earlier I heard Mitch was going to make the clinic here, but I was thinking either find a place to buy or build in town. This is our home; I want to raise our child here.” Inquiring, “Do you object to us living here?”

  Pulling her close, “Honey, we can live in a cardboard box as long as we are together.” Smiling he adds, “But like you I would love to make this our home.” Deciding this was the time. “Stephanie will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”

  Shifting a few inches away from him Stephanie smiles, “I will be honored to marry you.” As Chase pulls Stephanie tighter in his arms, he lifts her off her feet and begins to swings her around.

  Placing her back on her feet, “I love you. I wanted to have a quiet dinner, give you flowers and have my Grandmother’s ring.” Appearing disappointed Chase bends down kissing Stephanie tenderly on her lips.

  Laughing, “This is perfect, if we wait for quiet, you would never be able to propose to me.” Raising on her toes Stephanie plants a loud smooch on his lips, “I love you with all my heart.” Glancing at the tub, “I think the tub is full enough.” As Chase quickly shut off the water Stephanie suggests, “I think you should join me in my bath.”

  Straightening Chase agrees, “I think a shared bath sounds wonderful.” Watching as Stephanie begins undressing Chase smiles as she slides the pants down her shapely legs. When she reaches for the hem of her t-shirt he step close, helping her Chase lifts the shirt up then over her head. With Stephanie standing before him wearing only her under garments, he grins as his eyes travels up and down her body. Making eye contact with her, “You are beautiful both inside and out. I am a fortunate man to have your love.” Kissing her lightly on her forehead, “I will always care for you to the best of my abilities. You are the only woman in the world for me.”

  “My Darling, you make me happier than I ever imagined. I had given up on ever finding love.” Pleased Stephanie places her hand on his chest, “With you I have found a love for all times. I believe our love is as strong as the love Archibald and Della have.”

  Laying his hands on her cheeks, “I wish you could see yourself as I see you. You are an astonishing woman. You take my breath away with your love.” Kissing her lips briefly, “Now finish getting naked woman; otherwise I will have to redo your bath.” Turning away Chase starts removing his clothes; Stephanie quickly twists her hair up then puts a clip in to hold it on top of her head. When they are both undressed Chase helps Stephanie in the tub. Once Stephanie is seated Chase step over the rim setting down he pulls her backwards against his chest.

  Chase slides his arms around her waist, closing his eyes he gives a silent prayer thanking the Good Lord that Stephanie was not hurt today and for allowing him to have her in his life. Placing his hands over her stomach he ad
ds a special prayer for their baby, asking only for the baby to be healthy.

  Laying in Chase’s arms Stephanie feels his love surrounding her, giving her strength to face all their tomorrows. With his hands resting on the area holding their baby she says a silent prayer thanking God for all her blessings.

  With the water temperature decreasing Chase decides bath time is over, “We need to get out and get you in bed.” Kissing her head, “It has been a long day.”

  Setting her hands on the rim of the tub Stephanie pushes up; as she steps out of the tub she grabs a towel. “I am tired.” Turning to Chase she watches as he pushes the lever to release the water, then steps out of the tub onto the bathmat. Done drying Stephanie hangs up her towel, moving slowly she walks into the bedroom.

  Chase joins her in their room, “We don’t have to get up early so you can sleep as late as you want.” Getting into bed Chase pulls her close. “I love you, get some sleep Honey.”

  Snuggling in his arms Stephanie tells Chase drowsily, “I love you too. Good night.”

  For the past several hours the men have been digging holes in the back yard. Stephanie and Maria had decided to go to the house to fix a picnic for lunch. As they walk back towards the men they see them filling the hole they just dug. Both men’s shirts are drenched with sweat. This humid air is not good to be digging for gold. Moving to stand under a tree Stephanie spreads the quilt on the ground, sitting down she begins unpacking the food. Maria grabs two bottles of water, going to stand by the men she hands one to each. Glancing over at Stephanie she asks, “Do you think the gold has already discovered.”

  Chase takes a long drink of the water before answering, “No, I think the map is misleading.” Looking at Andy, “We have dug six places. Either we are wrong about the area or the map is drawn wrong.” Lifting the bottle to his mouth he drinks the rest of the water.

  “Maybe you should buy a metal detector.” Maria laughs when both men look at her scowling. Holding up her hands in surrender, “It was just a suggestion.” Peering at Andy tired and sweaty has Maria thinking about last night. After Chase and Stephanie had gone upstairs Maria had told him about her decision to resign from the department. Andy had listened to her reasons; he hadn’t judged her or wasn’t condescending. He had calmly asked about her plans for the future. Upon admitting she wasn’t sure about that part yet, he had informed her he was considering retiring to open a consultant/security business; asking her to think about them going into business together.

  When they had gone upstairs Andy had showed her to the guest room, as he stood staring at Maria from the doorway, he had stepped inside her room closing the door behind him. Maria had stood nervously as he moved towards her; he had stopped just several inches from her. Gazing into Andy’s eyes dark with passion Maria had placed her hands on his shoulders, sliding them around his neck. That was all the invitation Andy had needed, he lowered his mouth to hers, kissing her ravenously. With her responding to him Andy had moved them to the bed. The next several hours they spent exploring each other’s body.

  Bringing her thoughts back to the present; Maria blushes when she notices Andy watching her closely. Reaching for their empty water bottles, “Lunch is ready, you two need to eat. Stephanie fixed enough food for an army.” Turning she walks back to Stephanie.

  Stephanie and Maria sit Indian style on the quilt while they wait for the men to join them. When they had been in the kitchen Maria had told Stephanie about her night with Andy. Maria had been so ecstatic she had hugged and thanked Stephanie for her advice.

  Stephanie shifts to face Maria, “You and Andy look good together.”

  Smiling her thanks as the men join them on the quilt Maria begins handing plates to everyone. As they begin spooning food she asks, “Any idea where to dig now?”

  Chase looks at Stephanie before answering, “I think we need to check the facts again. We have the means to find out where the work shed was.” As Stephanie’s eyes sparkle with understanding Chase smiles.

  Andy looks at Chase then at Stephanie as he draws the same conclusion he laughs. Noting confusion in Maria’s eyes he searches for a way to explain. “Maria…..”

  Stephanie interrupts as she yells, “Archie we need you.” Maria jumps upon hearing Stephanie shout. “Let me explain. I want you to listen carefully; don’t say anything until I am done.” Looking over Chase’s shoulder Stephanie she sees Archie appear. Grinning Stephanie turns back to Maria. here I asked if you believed in ghosts.” continues, “For over a hundred years a Union soldier has been stuck here, he was killed on this property and has been unable to move on.”

  “When you first came At Maria’s nod she

  Noticing Maria about to comment Andy holds up his hand to stop her. “I know this will sounds crazy but just listen.” Picking up her hand Andy lays it on his thigh then places his hand over it.

  Nodding her head Maria remains quiet as Chase begins speaking, “The Union soldier is Archibald Butterworth, he is Stephanie’s Great Uncle.” Twisting to look over his shoulder Chase turns back to Maria, “He is standing behind me now.” As her eyes widen with shock, “He is a great man. A man of honor, he will not hurt you.”

  Before anyone can interrupt Maria exclaims, “I knew I could sense something about this house. It was as if I was being welcomed.” Looking at Andy she sees relief in his expression. “I have never experienced anything supernatural, but I always believed there are things in this world that can’t be explained.”

  Maria turns her attention to the space just behind Chase, “I would be privileged to be able to meet you Sir.” As she sits quietly she witnesses a shimmering shape forming behind Chase. Steadily the shape becomes clearer, a man wearing a faded blue Union uniform stands staring at her.

  Archie bows slightly, “It is my pleasure to meet you, Miss Maria.” Moving to Stephanie he kneels beside her. Glancing at Maria he winks, “You may call me Archie; Sir seems too formal for friends.” Giving Stephanie his attention, “You called for me?”

  Observing Maria for signs of fear Andy decides she is amazed not scared of Archie. Andy lifts her hand from his leg; bringing it to his lips he kisses the top of her hand. Laying her hand back on her lap, he retrieves his plate then begins eating. Remembering his shock of discovering Archie’s existence he knows she will have questions, he is prepared to answer each one. Allowing Maria time to adapt to Archie he remains silent.

  Following Andy’s lead, Maria picks up her plate. As she eats her mind is busy trying to rationalize Archie. Determined to speak with Andy in private Maria pushes her questions aside as she listens to Chase questions Archie.

  “Do you recall a work shed being here? Della’s Great, Great Grandmother JoEllen had the trunk with the gold buried behind the work shed. The map with directions shows the location but with the work shed gone and newer structures built we don’t know where to search for the trunk.”

  Scratching his head Archie closes his eyes trying to picture the grounds at the time of his death. “Do you think if we find the gold I will be able to be with my Della?” Opening his eyes he begins studying the yard.

  “Honestly I don’t know.” Glancing at Stephanie briefly Chase considers Archie’s situation. “I don’t think you have been here just to discover the gold. It may be connected or it may not.”

  Laying her hand over Archie’s hand Stephanie sees his sorrow reflected in his eyes. “I know this is difficult for you being here without Della, but we will continue to search for a means to release your spirit to go be with her.” Sadness fills her heart as Archie gazes at her with tears in his eyes. “I love you Archie, I will miss you when you’re gone; however, you being with Della is more important than anything else.” Smiling sadly, “If finding the gold doesn’t work then we will figure out some other way to help you.”

  “I know I don’t know all the details so you may have already tried this but have you tried to contact Della through a séance?” Maria looks at Archie as she asks.

  Shaking her head Steph
anie answers, “This started a long time before Della. They fell in love after Archie had already been killed and was a ghost.” Archie rises up then floats to the back of the hay barn. Observing his posture she understands his anguish, turning back to Maria. “He has been trying to find a way to leave since he died. Then years later he fell in love with Della, at first they would search for a way for him to leave, then as their love grew they stopped searching. Since Della passed away several years ago, Archie has been lonely, he loves her and he wants to be with her.”

  Chase rises up from the quilt, “I am going to go talk to Archie.” Before walking away he bends down kissing Stephanie’s lips.

  “Oh my, I didn’t mean to upset him.” Watching as Chase joins Archie by the barn, Maria asks Stephanie, “Should I go apologize?” Concern has Maria frowning.

  Before Stephanie can respond Andy answers, “No, you were just trying to help. Besides I think it’s a good suggestion. I don’t think anyone has tried to contact Della.” Andy raises his eyebrow inquisitively at Stephanie. As she negatively shakes her head he continues, “We may want to check into how to do a séance.”

  Hearing Chase holler they turn their attention to him, “Hey, Archie thinks he knows where we should dig.” Laughing he watches as they raise to their feet and sprint to him. Pointing to the ground just inside the hay barn, “Archie thinks the work shed was here, it was tore down when this barn was built, he thinks this outside wall is about three feet past the spot of the shed.”

  Clearing his throat Archie confesses, “During the first couple of years, I was depressed and angry, I stayed mostly in the attic. I may be wrong, however I think this is the place.”

  Smiling Stephanie assurance Archie, “This is closer than what we had figured so it’s a good place to start.”

  Stepping closer to Archie Maria gazes up at him, “I want to tell you I am sorry I upset you. That was not my intention; I truly was just trying to help.”

  Archie lays his hand on her cheek, “I know Miss Maria. I am too sensitive sometimes, when I think of a séance I think about people trying to release demons.” Huffing out a breath, “I have to learn to be open to all the options; I need to be with My Love.” Glancing at Stephanie, “I want to do this as soon as we can.” Removing his hand from Maria cheek he smiles sadly and fades.