“I’m just saying. Michael warned me- and after several months of dating you- well let’s just say I’m keeping track. You’re a moody one and I need to be prepared to do battle with your twin every four weeks if I want to survive.”
Rachael could hear him laughing in the kitchen as she made her way into the bathroom. She tamed her hair as best she could with water. She stared at the Medusa-like mass crowning her head. It was obviously a hat day! She donned a baseball cap of Michael’s she found in the hallway for the Bucs, then slipped on a pair of jean shorts and shirt. Some lip gloss and flip flops, she was ready to go. She trudged back down the hallway where Michael and Travis were sitting in the kitchen. Michael looked up and just laughed.
“Definitely that time.”
“Yep. She’s wearing the jean shorts, cap, flip flops, and a scowl. Get back boys.” Aunt Margaret chimed in.
“Are there no secrets in this house?” Rachael frowned.
“No secrets.” Travis winked. “So, about this birthday. Let’s get going.”
He stood and pushed his barstool back in. Rachael’s mother appeared from her bedroom down the hall.
“I’m ready.” She called out and grabbed her purse off of the table in the foyer.
“We’re all heading out for a birthday outing at seven o’clock on a Wednesday morning?”
“Sure are.” Michael smiled.
“Okay.”
When Travis mentioned shopping, she never imagined it would involve the entire family.
Everyone went outside where Travis’ mother’s SUV was parked. Rachael had only ridden in it a few times before. Usually only on occasions when there were so many of them that they needed all of the extra seats it afforded them. Travis was driving, so Rachael took shotgun up front with him. Everyone else piled in as well.
“Where are we heading?”
“It’s a surprise.” He squeezed her hand, where he held it on the middle console.
Rachael and her family rode listening to music. She nibbled on the toast and sipped the coffee Travis had made her. They got onto I-75 and headed north. Then after an hour or so they began taking a series of exits and turns toward their destination, all the while her mother giving Travis driving directions from the backseat. Suddenly it dawned on Rachael where they must be going.
Her father’s minimum security Federal Prison Camp was located somewhere outside of Tampa. She’d never visited it before, but knew it must be where they were headed. He’d been in prison for a little over a year. Her mother had gone to visit him on weekends and holidays during scheduled visiting hours, but she and Michael had never been permitted to go. Rachael knew that if that was where they were going, this must have been a special visit. Her mother and father must have made all of the plans way in advance. Rachael wasn’t sure of all of the details of visitation, but she knew that specific forms must have been submitted.
A few more turns and they were there. Tears stung Rachael’s eyes. Rachael wasn’t sure what she’d been expecting, but this was not it.
It was a prison. Plain and simple. Her father had been convicted of a white collar crime and had received two years in this facility. Rachael took a deep breath and calmed her emotions. This would be her first chance to see her father in over a year. She wouldn’t allow sadness to creep into this special day and ruin it.
“Kids, it’s not as bad as it looks. Your father is doing great and he’s very excited about today’s visit.” Her mother gripped their shoulders.
“I’m excited, too.” Rachael announced, wiping away any trace of tears. “Michael? Are you ready?”
“Sure am. I’ve known for a week. I can’t wait.”
“Some things you should know before we go in.” Their mother quickly supplied them with a list of prison do’s and don’ts. Among them were these simple rules: “Make eye contact. Leave all personal belongings in the vehicle. No jewelry- leave it here. No speaking about your father’s crime or questions about anyone else’s crimes or convictions either.” Then she turned to Rachael. “You need a longer pair of shorts. Nothing above the knee can be worn, so I grabbed you another pair right before we left the house.”
Everyone exited the vehicle giving Rachael an opportunity to pull on the pants her mother had brought her. She climbed out of the SUV announcing “All set. Let’s do this.”
Travis took her hand as she looped her other arm freely over her brother’s shoulders. They all walked into the prison yard where they had to go through a double security gate. Next they arrived at a sign-in desk, where they each had to present photo id. Rachael’s mother led the way through this extensive process, having repeated it several times over the past year.
They all went through an area that contained a metal detector. After passing this area, they proceeded to the visitation area where they were instructed to have a seat at a table. A few minutes later, her father was led in.
Rachael was surprised that he looked much better than he’d looked the last time she’d seen him before his trial. He looked relieved and rested. Maybe this experience hadn’t been as bad as she’d anticipated. Maybe he’d been more worried about the possibilities and the actual reality of prison was not as bad. Whatever the reason, Rachael herself was relieved- immensely. Her mother walked over and gave her father a hug and a kiss. Everyone else followed this pattern, with the exception of Travis who shook her father’s hand.
Her father sat down at the table with them.
Michael immediately launched into a story about baseball and how he’d hit his first homerun last season. Everyone shared in his excitement. Their mother talked about her job- that while it was unfulfilling for her- it paid the bills. Aunt Margaret commiserated with her about that part. Rachael shared her story about how she got her Mustang and how it had belonged to JJ’s mother. After a while, everyone sang Happy Birthday to Rachael and it was nearing time to go.
Travis, her mother, Aunt Margaret, and Michael all stood to excuse themselves. Rachael knew the visit would only last two hours and that the time for her to leave would be approaching. Her father stood and hugged each of them closely, kissing everyone on the cheek- even Travis whom he told to take care of his “Baby Girl”.
“Why don’t you take a few extra minutes, Rachael?” Her mother prodded.
“Thanks, Mom.”
Rachael sat across from her father. She wanted to talk to him about Amber, she knew she had to.
“Dad, do you remember that friend I told you about at the slumber party last year? The one who found herself in a bad situation?”
“Yes, I do.”
“Well, it was true. She was, or is rather, in a bad situation.”
“I feared that was the case when her parents transferred her to another school. How is she?”
Rachael shrugged her shoulders, “I ran into her. On the outside she seems okay, but she has made the decision to go with adoption.”
“Not an easy decision.”
“No.”
“And you’re fearful it’s a decision she will regret?”
“Yes.”
“And you want to know what I think?”
“Like always.”
“I think life is never easy. We all make decisions we regret.” He smiled knowingly. “It’s her decision though. No one can make that decision for her. Be supportive. Be a good friend. That’s all you can do.”
“You’re right, Dad. I miss you so much.”
“I miss you too, Baby Girl. Only one year to go. I’ll be home soon.” He paused. “How about you?” He lowered his voice. “No changes in that department.”
“No! Of course not!”
“Just as I thought, but try not to take the Cool Dad’s Fashions too far, honey.” He said glancing at her outfit of loose t-shirt, baggy pants, and flip flops.
“This wasn’t planned. I’d have dressed up if I had realized where we were going. This is what you’d call PMS Wear.”
“Glad to hear it. How is everything else?”
“Misty
’s grandmother came into the store to pick out something for her and ended up buying the shirt I had picked out for myself.”
“So?”
“It bothered me. A lot.”
“I can understand.”
“Yes, but the really bad part was the fact that I started wanting to pick other things out for her. Things that would’ve been insulting or unkind.”
“At least you realized that it was wrong and didn’t do it.”
“Yes.”
“And now you have something to work on- moving past your jealously and dislike of Misty.”
“I didn’t even realize that it still bothered me- the fact she and Travis have shared something intimate.” Rachael smirked, remembering back to their break-up. While they hadn’t actually slept together, he and Misty had come very close to it. It still hurt.
“Well, it shouldn’t. It was before your time. Only you can fix what you’re feeling. It’s no one’s responsibility but your own. The realization that you’re imperfect hurts.”
Rachael stood and walked over to embrace her father. He kissed her forehead.
“Take care. I love you.”
“Love you, too, Dad.”
“And Rachael,” he called stopping her. “Happy Birthday. Have an extra slice of birthday cake for me.”
“Thanks. Will do.”
As Rachael made the long walk out, alone, she thought about her father and mother. Their strength and courage. Her mother had made this same journey many times before. Each time leaving her father all over again. Each time saying goodbye. She had renewed respect for her mother and her commitment to their family. She was a woman of immeasurable character.
The rest of her family waited for her in the public reception area. Rachael was glad to see them, but also wanted to go and hide for a moment or two of quiet solitude. Her mother came over to hug her, as did her aunt. Travis and Michael stood talking quietly, but Rachael didn’t miss the look in Travis’ eyes searching hers- quietly asking if she was okay. She walked over and took his hand squeezing it. They all walked out and headed for home.
Once home, Aunt Margaret and her mother set to work to prepare a birthday feast. Michael disappeared to his game lounge with Levi, Travis’ cousin, who appeared at their door.
Rachael and Travis went to the barn and climbed the stairs to the hayloft letting their legs dangle from the open doors.
“You okay?”
“I am. Surprisingly, I feel better. Seeing him in person and knowing he’s okay. I’m at peace with it. Two years is a long time, but it’ll be over before we know it.”
“Yes, it will.” His eyes sparkled in the bright Florida sun, setting low in west. “So what had you so down this morning?”
“Amber. She came into the store yesterday.”
“How is she?”
“Okay, I guess. She’s giving the baby up for adoption.”
“I heard. After we bumped into her and her mother last month…I called Clay. He knew of course, and is supportive of whatever she wants to do.”
“He’s okay with her giving the baby up for adoption?”
“Yes. He thinks he’s too young to be a parent, too.”
“Wow.”
“Is something else bothering you?”
“You’re very good at reading me, Travis.”
“Getting better at it every day.” He winked.
Rachael smacked his leg, leaving her hand on his thigh.
“Misty’s grandmother came into the store yesterday to pick her out a shirt and earrings.”
Travis raised his eyebrows. “Go on.”
“I helped her pick out a few nice things.”
“Uh, huh.” He smiled.
“No really. I picked out the shirt and earrings that I had chosen for myself.”
“That was nice of you.”
“No, not really. I was really angry about her getting them and even contemplated selling her grandmother some hideous earrings instead- and a few other choice garments.” Rachael confessed.
“But you didn’t, in the end you did the right thing.”
“Yeah. I guess so. I’m still not happy about it though.”
Rachael felt as if she’d gone to confession- twice. First to Dad, now to Travis. Who next? The mailman? But all the confessing in the world wouldn’t make her feel better. Dad was right. She needed to fix it herself, but wasn’t sure how to.
“That’s okay. You’re human, Rach. Do you want to open your present?” Travis pulled a small box out of his shirt pocket.
“That’s not what I think it is- is it?”
“Nope. It’s not an engagement ring. You have me on a seven year plan- remember? I’m pacing myself.”
Rachael opened the box. Inside there was a long white gold chain with a heart-shaped ruby pendent.
Travis took the box from her and put the necklace around her neck, gently lifting her hair to fasten it at the back.
“You have my heart. You always have.” He kissed her sweetly. Their tender moment ended when they heard Maysie hollering from the top of the stairwell.
“Come on you two lovebirds. We’re all holding dinner for the guest of honor here. Besides- if I can’t get any kisses, you two can’t have any either.”
“Great.” Travis mumbled.
“She does have a point, Travis. If she can’t kiss Tristan- we shouldn’t be allowed to kiss either.”
“Holy hell. Someone shoot me now.” Travis jested.
“I think that’s a great idea, Rachael!” Maysie squealed. “We’re all going to make a no kissing, no holding hands pact for the entire year.”
“That would make both our Dad’s happy.” Rachael surmised.
“Yes- and one guy really grouchy.” Travis warned. “Not gonna happen, Maysie. If you’d choose a guy your own age you could date as well.”
“I don’t want a boy my own age.” Maysie retorted. “I want Tristan.”
“Come on you two. Dinner is getting cold.” Rachael intervened.
Tristan and Maysie were still not allowed to officially begin dating- not until after she graduated high school this year and turned nineteen. He was older, more mature, and after what happened last year- Maysie was fortunate her parents allowed her to still see him at all. They’d set a few simple rules and Maysie was following them. So far…so good.
At the table everyone said grace. Her birthday dinner was a grand affair. Mashed potatoes, fried cubed steak, gravy, and yellow corn on the cob. Corn bread, still warm from the oven, with honey butter set Rachael’s mouth to watering. Large mason jars filled with sweet tea accompanied every place setting. Rachael glanced around the table- all the smiling faces. Everyone was happy, even Rachael.
“What a lovely heart pendant.” Her mother took notice of the ruby pendant. Rachael touched it where it hung around her neck.
“It was smooth of Travis to give Rachael his heart.” Michael nodded his head toward Travis. “Levi and I’ve been taking mental notes from the ‘dating master’.”
“The dating master?” Rachael eyed Travis.
“That was before you, baby. Now there’s only one girl I want to date.”
“Add that line to the list.” Levi instructed Michael.
“I will.”
“You’re not helping here guys.” Travis glared at them both.
“What list?” Rachael asked. Travis had a look of shut up, you morons on his face.
“Our Travis Baxter: How to Date Hot Chicks’ List.” Michael appeared very proud of himself.
“Travis is a legend around here.” Levi interjected.
“A legend, huh?”
“Yep. Before all the girls you know about there were at least ten others.”
“Really.”
“Yep. The list goes on and on.” Maysie chimed in.
“Hmm.”
“Okay you two. I’m going to whip both your butts in a bit if you don’t zip it.” Travis threatened as he stood up, walked over, and gave them both a noogie.
After dinner was over and birthday cake served, Rachael said her goodbyes to both Maysie and Travis outside. Fortunately for them, Maysie had driven over in her own car. After Maysie drove out of the driveway, Travis turned and held Rachael close.
“There really weren’t all that many, baby.”
“I’m not bothered by you being a super dater. I’ve dated fifteen guys myself. It’s not really that big of a deal.”
“Fifteen!” Travis’ eyes opened wide and his voice rose a notch.
“Yep. It’s just a number, Travis. It doesn’t mean a thing.”
A sideways glance proved to Rachael she’d really gotten to him this time. She could almost hear his thoughts. She knew if he asked her questions about it, he would be opening himself up to a whole slew of questions from her- so he kept quiet.
“Fifteen?”
She smiled, “Yes, but I only kissed ten of them- or was it eleven. I can’t remember.”
“No wonder you’re such a great kisser. It’s all that practice.” He sounded hurt. “I’ve no room to judge though.”
She considered letting this little charade play through a little bit longer, but the concern she saw on his face was more than she could bear. Besides, she’d never been a liar and since it wasn’t April Fool’s Day, she didn’t see how her little hoax could be left as it was.
“I’m just playing with you. I haven’t kissed eleven guys!” She giggled.
“Not funny, Rachael.”
“So who’s the mopey one now?” She pulled him close and kissed him. “One. I’ve kissed one cowboy. Just one.”
Technically she told the truth. She’d never kissed any other cowboys, and of course he knew about her kissing Colten- but why did she feel he needed to know anyhow? As she learned at dinner- he could practically be considered a kissing bandit to hear her brother and Levi tell it!
He held her close.
“I’m a more jealous guy than I knew. Thanks for taking the teasing at the dinner table so well tonight. I don’t think I could’ve handled it the same way if I were in your shoes.”
“Thank you for going with me to see my father. I don’t know many guys that would’ve wanted to step foot in a prison.”
“It wasn’t fun- that’s for sure, but I was glad to share it with you.”
Cowgirl Strong Page 2
