Here is my latest short story.. I put a lot of effort in to it. I wanted to write something that was entertaining, but meaningful/important.
I know the subject matter will turn some people off.. but that is ok, that is what I am trying to do. I am trying to point out the Consequences...
I hope you enjoy.. I appreciate all feedback, it makes me a better writer.
Consequence
[5th Draft]
By: Michael McClanahan
Paul came home from work happier than normal. He had great news to tell Judith about their daughter, which he was going to save for supper.
Judith was cooking with her back to him.
Hey hun, smells good. He said.
She turned and gave him a quick smile. Hey you itll be ready in a few. She returned to the stove.
Okay, thanks. So how was our little Spring today?
Judith laughed which made Paul smile. Oh you know, same as always, one adventure after another. Remind me to tell you about the incident with the bird later Last I checked she was in her room playing with her dolls.
Paul laughed to himself and headed for their bedroom but stopped shy of the dinning room table. Hey, no one called today about Spring, did they?
Uh, you mean besides both our moms? She replied without breaking her concentration.
No, anyone else? He inquired.
No, no calls. Should there have been?
Just checking. Paul offered, and walked to the bedroom.
At Springs room he paused at her doorway and watched her sitting on the floor, her stuffed dolls and animals sprawled around her like a toy-chest explosion, and she was the dainty dynamo in the middle.
She was holding up a red crab, Paul recognized as Sebastian from her favorite Disney movie, in one hand, and in the other was Pauls favorite honey loving bear. She was singing softly to them.
Dis is the life. Dis is the life. Dont be a clam. Open up and jam! She repeated the refrain.
This made Paul smile deeply. Heya kidderoo, I like your song. Youre such a pretty singer.
Daaaad She drew his name out, sounding too embarrassed for her age. Im not a singer. Im a Sea-bastin!
Paul burst out with a laugh. Ok, ok, a thousand apologies, your crabbyness. He watched her for a moment, already distracted with an imaginary conversation between herself and two dolls. Well, at ease, Im going to change out of these stuffy work clothes. Mom said supper would be ready soon, Ok?
She grinned brightly and made Sebastian nod for her.
Paul walked back to his closet chuckling to himself over his daughters quirky beauty.
Judith placed the last plate down when Paul came to sit as his chair. Spring was already waiting patiently, which for her meant being preoccupied with a doll.
When Judith took her seat, Paul said. Let us pray.
They bowed their heads.
Bless us Oh Lord and these thy gifts which we are about to receive through thy bounty through Christ Our Lord, Amen. Paul recited.
Amen. The females parroted.
They ate in silence for a few minutes, until Paul couldnt wait any longer. I got an interview at Trinity Academy for Spring set for this Wednesday. Shes a sure bet to get in. Any school would be clamoring for such an intelligent, bright little lady. He boasted.
I thought it was agreed Spring would go to a public school. Judith said simply.
What? No it wasnt. We never really discussed it. Besides, I didnt think we needed to. I went to Trinity, so did my two older sisters. It is a great school. We all turned out ok.
Judith smirked. Except that your oldest sister is becoming jaded from a loveless marriage, and Hannah seems unable to find any lasting meaning in the parade of men that pass through her boudoir.
Paul bristled. Come on, dont be a b word Judith. Not in front of the kid.
Spring, however, was paying more attention to a work of art involving the food on her plate.
Im only being honest. Im not trying to be cruel. I mean, sure yall came out relatively ok. Yall were lucky. Your parents had some sense in spite of their religion, and they passed some of that on to yall.
Come on, Judith, not this again. I dont want to argue this with you. This has never been a problem before, why now? He asked.
You never want to discuss this, and that is why it is a problem. Before it didnt matter as much, but now that her future is on the line we have to talk this through. I cant let you decide whatever you want, and I cant keep brushing my beliefs beneath the rug.
Her futures on the line? What are you talking about? Trinity is a great school! She needs a good Christian education, like me.
Judith shook her head and ran her fingers through her hair. Im pretty sure she can get the same education, if not better, at one of the public schools, and we wont have to pay an arm and a leg.
Paul frowned. Look, this is my familys tradition. I want Spring to follow in it, and I want her to graduate under the guidance of God.
Judith rolled her eyes. Just because you went and came out mostly unscathed is no reason for her to go. I dont trust the kind of people that run that place telling my daughter whats right and wrong in life. I mean, some of those people are good, decent human beings, but they are part of an idea that represents something much more sinister, something that is threatening to tear this world apart. Something that not only supports, but in some instances, glorifies intolerance and anxiety.
Aha! Paul exclaimed victoriously. How dare you condemn my Faith, and my school, for the few rotten apples that left a bad taste in your mouth!
She waved away his accusation. A few bad apples? Please, my past has little to do with this. Pay attention to the news. You know Im right. In fact how many times have you complained to me about your fellow parishioners that act hypocritically and generally not very good at all?
Paul sighed loudly. Thats different. I dont know how or why, but it is. I just know. Spring needs to go to Trinity. She cant get that kind of strong moral character that the Gospels teach from some stupid public school! His voice was raised.
Spring was now absorbed in their conversation. She knew it was something serious, but exactly what they were debating was beyond her.
Judith was shaking her head. That isnt the only place you can develop good character from. That comes from us. You dont need to faithfully follow an ancient text, or any text, to understand what makes a good human being.
Paul was about to argue, but Judith cut him off. I have to be honest, Paul, you are starting to scare me. The guy I married wasnt like this. The guy I married loved life more than anything.
Paul groaned an exasperated cry. You arent making any sense. I havent changed. Youve changed. Suddenly I have to debate my Religion with you, and Im not going to do it, not here, not in front of Spring.
Spring had finished eating, and looked concerned at her parents.
Paul smoothed her hair. You cleaned your plate. What a good girl! If you are done you may take your plate and be excused.
She gave a smile that melted away some of the tension. Okay. She pushed away from the table, grabbed her plate, and hopped out of the chair.
What do you tell your mom? Paul commanded.
Thank you for the food momma.
Judith mustered a smile. Youre very welcome baby.
When Spring left and they heard the living room TV turn on and loud zany cartoon sounds fill the air, they ate their food in silence, each one stewing in their own rightness.
Finally, Paul said, Im sorry. You know how I get about this stuff.
Judith nodded slowly and finished swallowing her last bite. Yes, I do, all too well. Lets drop this for now, but we cant keep doing that, you know, we need to discuss this more tomorrow, because I dont want us to go to bed angry with each other.
And we dont have to. He said as he stood up and began picking up their plates. I love you. Thank you for supper. He kissed her on the forehead and took the plates to the sink.
That night they went to bed without saying much. Small talk about their day, kisses goodnight, and that was all. They didnt go to bed angry, but a cold divide had settled between them in the bed, and remained throughout the night, troubling their dreams.
Bright and early the next morning they were woken by the loudest alarm clock, their four year old.
Play with me Mommy!
Judith smiled through her sleep and said with eyes closed, Give me a few minutes to wake up honey, ok?
But Im bored now. She pouted.
From someplace deeply comfortable, Judith murmured, I know you are hun, So how bout you draw Mommy a picture until I get up, and then Ill join you.
Okay! Spring caroled, and skipped out of their bedroom.
Youre brilliant with her. Paul admired from her back.
She rolled over and met his gaze. No, Im just giving her what she wants She has me wrapped around her little-bitty finger.
Me too, me too Paul agreed and reached up to brush a strand of hair from her eyes. Good morning, sleeping beauty. How did you sleep?
Good morning to you too. I slept ok, except I had a horrible nightmare that I can barely remember.
Aww, you know I had kinda an uneasy night too. Maybe it was what we ate.
Judith mocked offense. Are you saying my chicken spaghetti was bad?
Paul leaned in to kiss her nose. Of course I am. His grin was absurd.
She laughed. You brute! she exclaimed, and pushed his shoulder.
Oh you wanna play rough do ya? He said and suddenly he was up on his knees and on top of her, pinning her down with his weight.
Paul! She shrieked. Get offa me! What are you doing?
He shushed her laughingly. Quiet now, ya dont want the warden hearin us! He whispered with quick kisses to punctuate his meaning.
Judith laughed and matched his affection with a raise of her own, which grew into a game that never got old.
The grandfather clock in the hallway hadnt chimed once when they heard a loud screech, Spring scooting her chair across the tiled floor, and the quick patter of her skipping down the hallway.
Judith and Paul both rose out of bed to meet her.
She came in displaying a ripped piece of art paper. See I drew a picture of Lulu and me, were outside. She explained.
Thats beautiful, Lulu would love that. Judith said, admiring the drawing.
Paul laughed. Lulu would probably eat that!
Spring wrinkled her nose. Lulee wont eat it! She hugged the picture tight.
Paul laughed again. No I was fooling. She wont eat it. Dogs never eat paper, believe me, I tried to make it happen in school.
Judith playfully rolled her eyes at Paul. Its lovely, really pretty Spring. You are a great artist. Go put it up on the fridge and let Mommy and Daddy get dressed.
Spring nodded. MmK and she skipped back out.
Paul was shaking his head and laughing to himself when Judith looked at him. What? she inquired.
It must be a woman thing. He explained.
What is?
How well she responds to you.
That might be some of it but it is mostly how I respond to her. She said as she entered the master bathroom.
Paul followed. And how is that any different than how I talk to her?
Judith frowned. All I mean is you are sometimes too abrupt with her, and too quick to judge.
Paul opened his closet and began leafing through his hung up shirts and pants. Quick to judge? How am I quick to judge? He called from the closet.
Judith sensed a growing irritation in his voice so she was careful with her wording; she was approaching dangerous country.
Let me give you an example You remember when you were late for work and you couldnt find the keys to the truck?
Paul groaned. My God are you ever going to let that go?
Judith ignored him. You got all flustered and stressed over being late that you snapped at Spring, accused her, and made her cry And then we found your keys in the couch cushion.
Paul began dressing himself. How many times do I have to apologize for that? Thats a horrible example. He grumbled.
Its a perfect example. She said, and opened her closet to dress for the day.
They dressed in a tense, taut silence, with each one brooding in their own convictions.
Spring was the one to break the silence by poking her adorable and curious face around the frame of the bathroom door, saying nothing merely observing with childhood fascination.
Judith studied her daughters face with swelling pride.
Whats up, sweetie pie? Paul asked.
Springs face blossomed at the sound of one of her fathers many endearing nicknames. She shook her head. Nuffin.
Paul chuckled. Nuffin, huh, Muffin?
Springs face wrinkled in confusion. Whats muffin?
Paul raised an eyebrow to his wife, and she said, A muffin is a baked good like bread or cupcakes and people usually eat muffins for breakfast but they dont have to.
I want a muffin! Spring squealed.
We dont have any muffins. Paul explained.
But I want a muffin! Muffin, muffin, muffin! She said somewhere between a whine and a tantrum.
Paul opened his mouth but Judith interjected. Now Spring, behave. Mommy will buy you some muffins the next time shes at the store. Until then how about I make you some of Grammys famous blueberry pancakes?
Boo-Berry! Yay! Thank you mommy! She ran off to tell her dolls the good news.
Judith turned to Paul and gave him a look that said, thats how its done.
Paul waved her away. Go make your pancakes, woman. Get to the kitchen, where you belong, and let me finish getting ready. He said with a devilish grin.
Where I belong? Ooh youre lucky I know youre teasing, buster. Otherwise your ass would be grass.
Tsk tsk, easy-peasy. Im only teasing.
And Im only saying She said and walked out.
When she was out of earshot Paul muttered, Yeah, Id like to see you try, you couldnt harm a fly. and he checked himself in the mirror to put on his tie.
Judith was mixing the batter when Paul entered the kitchen, looking neat and smelling woodsy from a generous application of his favorite cologne.
Wheres the paper? He asked as he scanned the dining table.
I dont know, probably still outside. She answered.
What? You didnt get it?
Judith rolled her eyes. No I did. I made it invisible too just to spite you.
Paul frowned. Ok, smart ass. He opened the front door and shut it behind him.
Damn right smart ass. My ass graduated with a masters in sarcasm. Judith told no one in particular, and then laughed at her frivolity.
Paul came back with the paper as Judith was pouring the batter on the skillet.
He took his seat at the head of the table and opened the paper before him, which he read in silence, with the sizzle of Judiths cooking for ambiance.
After a few minutes, Judith yelled, Spring! Theyre ready!
How many do you want, hun? She asked Paul.
Hmm? What? He turned to look at her and she nodded at the pancakes. Oh, right. Put me down for the usual.
Of course. A stack of three it is, a holy order for Mr. Consistent.
Paul ignored her.
Spring came in holding Sebastian and took her seat. She put the crab on the table next to her.
Judith brought the plates, silverware, and condiments to the table, and went back for the pancakes.
When they were all sitting down, Paul led them in saying Grace.
Judith felt a stronger desire than normal to protest, but she bit her tongue, and said the requisite Amen instead.
Everyone ate and kept to themselves, then Spring said, These are yummy Mommy!
Judith smiled. Thanks sweetie. What does your Sebastian think?
Paul looked up from the newspaper. Probably that we should be eating Kelp Pancakes instead.
Judith laughed, and Spring joined in, although it was clear she was only laughing for appearance.
After the laughter died down, Paul declared, without looking up from his paper, Im taking Spring to that interview tomorrow.
Judith sighed. Paul, I really dont want her to go to Trinity. I dont want her to follow that path. Im sorry, Ive held my tongue for far too long, and I cant keep quiet any longer. I wont have my daughters childhood stained.
Paul looked up, flabbergasted. What? Stained? What in the world are you talking about?
Im just saying I want our daughter to be free to enjoy and explore her childhood. I dont want anyone thats not us telling her whats right and wrong, and scaring her into believing anything with threats of fire and brimstone, and stories that are as archaic as the thought processes they represent.
Paul hit the table with his fist, which made his wife and daughter jump. I will not raise my daughter to be a Godless whore like He stopped himself.
Judiths nostrils flared, but calmly she told Spring to go watch TV. When the TV came on, Judith said with a calmness that defied her grinding jaw and fiery eyes. Like who Paul? Like me? Is that what you were going to say? Where you about to call me that in front of our daughter?
Paul shook his head vehemently. No, no, I would never
Judiths eyes shimmered with a reserved pain. I cant believe you. You knew my outlook when we married. You said you were ok with that. So why did you marry me if my lack of faith is really such a horrible thing?
Because Paul tried to explain, Because you arent horrible. Youre beautiful, in fact, and so damn smart. And I honestly believed after a while, especially after we had kids, you would accept God back into your life.
Judith sighed again, and was about to speak when Spring bounced back into the kitchen. Can I go play with Lulu?
Paul waved her away. Sure, but dont wonder off.
Spring went outside and when the door closed, Paul said, I dont know what to do. Obviously you dont get how important my spirituality is to me.
Judith shook her head. No, no, Im not trying to take that away from you. I love that about you. I dont want you to confuse that with what you got from Trinity. I think you can easily be a spiritual person without ascribing to the B.S. that Trinity commands. All Im trying to do is show you how a one hundred percent conviction in faith can be a bad thing, and I dont want to pass that on to Spring.
What the Hell Judith! So - what, you dont have a hundred percent faith in anything? Not even our Spring? Thats jacked up! Pauls voice rose and crashed like a guillotine, and his face was flushed with passion.
Judith, however, looked exhausted. Faith in the Bible is completely different than Faith in my daughter, so much so that there ought to be a different word. I have faith in my daughter because I can see how fantastically intelligent and curious she is with every passing day. You cant do that with the Bible, or any holy text for that matter.
Oh my God! Paul exclaimed. I cant believe what I am hearing! He glanced down at his watch. Oh, Damn-it! Damn-it Judith! Im late! Theyre gonna fire me for sure this time! He roared in frustration. Damn-it all to Hell Judith! You made me late for work because of your stupid, ridiculous debating! He pushed away from the table so fast he knocked the chair down, but the resulting crash and clamor meant nothing to his panicked deafness.
Calm down Paul. Take some deep breaths. Itll be alright.
Shut-up! You dont know that! He almost screamed the words at her, and he trembled with emotion. He swiped his wallet, phone, nametag and keys from the counter and knocked off a stack of receipts that fluttered to the floor.
No, I dont know. That is my whole point with everything Paul. Im ok to admit that, and you should be too.
Paul wagged an accusing finger at her. You better lay of me. He opened the door and took a step out, and turned to look at her. And I do know one thing Spring is going to that interview tomorrow and she is going to enroll at Trinity. Im putting my foot down. He slammed the door behind him.
Judith sighed and stared blankly at their unfinished breakfast.
She heard Pauls truck roar to life and quickly back out.
There was a horrible-primal-almost-inhuman cry, and the angry-shrill shriek of the trucks breaks.
Immediately Judith was on her feet and rushing outside, whispering, Please be the dog. like a mantra.
She found Paul on the ground in front of his truck, cradling their broken daughter.
No!!! Judith howled the word with all the pain possible. She ran to her family and collapsed beside her daughter.
Paul was shaking his head back and forth, rocking, and sobbing to himself.
Jesus Christ, Please God, Please, please bring back my Spring. I swear, you can take me instead. Please God, take me instead. Please God, bring back Spring.
-End-
05/08/09
I know the subject matter will turn some people off.. but that is ok, that is what I am trying to do. I am trying to point out the Consequences...
I hope you enjoy.. I appreciate all feedback, it makes me a better writer.
Consequence
[5th Draft]
By: Michael McClanahan
Paul came home from work happier than normal. He had great news to tell Judith about their daughter, which he was going to save for supper.
Judith was cooking with her back to him.
Hey hun, smells good. He said.
She turned and gave him a quick smile. Hey you itll be ready in a few. She returned to the stove.
Okay, thanks. So how was our little Spring today?
Judith laughed which made Paul smile. Oh you know, same as always, one adventure after another. Remind me to tell you about the incident with the bird later Last I checked she was in her room playing with her dolls.
Paul laughed to himself and headed for their bedroom but stopped shy of the dinning room table. Hey, no one called today about Spring, did they?
Uh, you mean besides both our moms? She replied without breaking her concentration.
No, anyone else? He inquired.
No, no calls. Should there have been?
Just checking. Paul offered, and walked to the bedroom.
At Springs room he paused at her doorway and watched her sitting on the floor, her stuffed dolls and animals sprawled around her like a toy-chest explosion, and she was the dainty dynamo in the middle.
She was holding up a red crab, Paul recognized as Sebastian from her favorite Disney movie, in one hand, and in the other was Pauls favorite honey loving bear. She was singing softly to them.
Dis is the life. Dis is the life. Dont be a clam. Open up and jam! She repeated the refrain.
This made Paul smile deeply. Heya kidderoo, I like your song. Youre such a pretty singer.
Daaaad She drew his name out, sounding too embarrassed for her age. Im not a singer. Im a Sea-bastin!
Paul burst out with a laugh. Ok, ok, a thousand apologies, your crabbyness. He watched her for a moment, already distracted with an imaginary conversation between herself and two dolls. Well, at ease, Im going to change out of these stuffy work clothes. Mom said supper would be ready soon, Ok?
She grinned brightly and made Sebastian nod for her.
Paul walked back to his closet chuckling to himself over his daughters quirky beauty.
Judith placed the last plate down when Paul came to sit as his chair. Spring was already waiting patiently, which for her meant being preoccupied with a doll.
When Judith took her seat, Paul said. Let us pray.
They bowed their heads.
Bless us Oh Lord and these thy gifts which we are about to receive through thy bounty through Christ Our Lord, Amen. Paul recited.
Amen. The females parroted.
They ate in silence for a few minutes, until Paul couldnt wait any longer. I got an interview at Trinity Academy for Spring set for this Wednesday. Shes a sure bet to get in. Any school would be clamoring for such an intelligent, bright little lady. He boasted.
I thought it was agreed Spring would go to a public school. Judith said simply.
What? No it wasnt. We never really discussed it. Besides, I didnt think we needed to. I went to Trinity, so did my two older sisters. It is a great school. We all turned out ok.
Judith smirked. Except that your oldest sister is becoming jaded from a loveless marriage, and Hannah seems unable to find any lasting meaning in the parade of men that pass through her boudoir.
Paul bristled. Come on, dont be a b word Judith. Not in front of the kid.
Spring, however, was paying more attention to a work of art involving the food on her plate.
Im only being honest. Im not trying to be cruel. I mean, sure yall came out relatively ok. Yall were lucky. Your parents had some sense in spite of their religion, and they passed some of that on to yall.
Come on, Judith, not this again. I dont want to argue this with you. This has never been a problem before, why now? He asked.
You never want to discuss this, and that is why it is a problem. Before it didnt matter as much, but now that her future is on the line we have to talk this through. I cant let you decide whatever you want, and I cant keep brushing my beliefs beneath the rug.
Her futures on the line? What are you talking about? Trinity is a great school! She needs a good Christian education, like me.
Judith shook her head and ran her fingers through her hair. Im pretty sure she can get the same education, if not better, at one of the public schools, and we wont have to pay an arm and a leg.
Paul frowned. Look, this is my familys tradition. I want Spring to follow in it, and I want her to graduate under the guidance of God.
Judith rolled her eyes. Just because you went and came out mostly unscathed is no reason for her to go. I dont trust the kind of people that run that place telling my daughter whats right and wrong in life. I mean, some of those people are good, decent human beings, but they are part of an idea that represents something much more sinister, something that is threatening to tear this world apart. Something that not only supports, but in some instances, glorifies intolerance and anxiety.
Aha! Paul exclaimed victoriously. How dare you condemn my Faith, and my school, for the few rotten apples that left a bad taste in your mouth!
She waved away his accusation. A few bad apples? Please, my past has little to do with this. Pay attention to the news. You know Im right. In fact how many times have you complained to me about your fellow parishioners that act hypocritically and generally not very good at all?
Paul sighed loudly. Thats different. I dont know how or why, but it is. I just know. Spring needs to go to Trinity. She cant get that kind of strong moral character that the Gospels teach from some stupid public school! His voice was raised.
Spring was now absorbed in their conversation. She knew it was something serious, but exactly what they were debating was beyond her.
Judith was shaking her head. That isnt the only place you can develop good character from. That comes from us. You dont need to faithfully follow an ancient text, or any text, to understand what makes a good human being.
Paul was about to argue, but Judith cut him off. I have to be honest, Paul, you are starting to scare me. The guy I married wasnt like this. The guy I married loved life more than anything.
Paul groaned an exasperated cry. You arent making any sense. I havent changed. Youve changed. Suddenly I have to debate my Religion with you, and Im not going to do it, not here, not in front of Spring.
Spring had finished eating, and looked concerned at her parents.
Paul smoothed her hair. You cleaned your plate. What a good girl! If you are done you may take your plate and be excused.
She gave a smile that melted away some of the tension. Okay. She pushed away from the table, grabbed her plate, and hopped out of the chair.
What do you tell your mom? Paul commanded.
Thank you for the food momma.
Judith mustered a smile. Youre very welcome baby.
When Spring left and they heard the living room TV turn on and loud zany cartoon sounds fill the air, they ate their food in silence, each one stewing in their own rightness.
Finally, Paul said, Im sorry. You know how I get about this stuff.
Judith nodded slowly and finished swallowing her last bite. Yes, I do, all too well. Lets drop this for now, but we cant keep doing that, you know, we need to discuss this more tomorrow, because I dont want us to go to bed angry with each other.
And we dont have to. He said as he stood up and began picking up their plates. I love you. Thank you for supper. He kissed her on the forehead and took the plates to the sink.
That night they went to bed without saying much. Small talk about their day, kisses goodnight, and that was all. They didnt go to bed angry, but a cold divide had settled between them in the bed, and remained throughout the night, troubling their dreams.
Bright and early the next morning they were woken by the loudest alarm clock, their four year old.
Play with me Mommy!
Judith smiled through her sleep and said with eyes closed, Give me a few minutes to wake up honey, ok?
But Im bored now. She pouted.
From someplace deeply comfortable, Judith murmured, I know you are hun, So how bout you draw Mommy a picture until I get up, and then Ill join you.
Okay! Spring caroled, and skipped out of their bedroom.
Youre brilliant with her. Paul admired from her back.
She rolled over and met his gaze. No, Im just giving her what she wants She has me wrapped around her little-bitty finger.
Me too, me too Paul agreed and reached up to brush a strand of hair from her eyes. Good morning, sleeping beauty. How did you sleep?
Good morning to you too. I slept ok, except I had a horrible nightmare that I can barely remember.
Aww, you know I had kinda an uneasy night too. Maybe it was what we ate.
Judith mocked offense. Are you saying my chicken spaghetti was bad?
Paul leaned in to kiss her nose. Of course I am. His grin was absurd.
She laughed. You brute! she exclaimed, and pushed his shoulder.
Oh you wanna play rough do ya? He said and suddenly he was up on his knees and on top of her, pinning her down with his weight.
Paul! She shrieked. Get offa me! What are you doing?
He shushed her laughingly. Quiet now, ya dont want the warden hearin us! He whispered with quick kisses to punctuate his meaning.
Judith laughed and matched his affection with a raise of her own, which grew into a game that never got old.
The grandfather clock in the hallway hadnt chimed once when they heard a loud screech, Spring scooting her chair across the tiled floor, and the quick patter of her skipping down the hallway.
Judith and Paul both rose out of bed to meet her.
She came in displaying a ripped piece of art paper. See I drew a picture of Lulu and me, were outside. She explained.
Thats beautiful, Lulu would love that. Judith said, admiring the drawing.
Paul laughed. Lulu would probably eat that!
Spring wrinkled her nose. Lulee wont eat it! She hugged the picture tight.
Paul laughed again. No I was fooling. She wont eat it. Dogs never eat paper, believe me, I tried to make it happen in school.
Judith playfully rolled her eyes at Paul. Its lovely, really pretty Spring. You are a great artist. Go put it up on the fridge and let Mommy and Daddy get dressed.
Spring nodded. MmK and she skipped back out.
Paul was shaking his head and laughing to himself when Judith looked at him. What? she inquired.
It must be a woman thing. He explained.
What is?
How well she responds to you.
That might be some of it but it is mostly how I respond to her. She said as she entered the master bathroom.
Paul followed. And how is that any different than how I talk to her?
Judith frowned. All I mean is you are sometimes too abrupt with her, and too quick to judge.
Paul opened his closet and began leafing through his hung up shirts and pants. Quick to judge? How am I quick to judge? He called from the closet.
Judith sensed a growing irritation in his voice so she was careful with her wording; she was approaching dangerous country.
Let me give you an example You remember when you were late for work and you couldnt find the keys to the truck?
Paul groaned. My God are you ever going to let that go?
Judith ignored him. You got all flustered and stressed over being late that you snapped at Spring, accused her, and made her cry And then we found your keys in the couch cushion.
Paul began dressing himself. How many times do I have to apologize for that? Thats a horrible example. He grumbled.
Its a perfect example. She said, and opened her closet to dress for the day.
They dressed in a tense, taut silence, with each one brooding in their own convictions.
Spring was the one to break the silence by poking her adorable and curious face around the frame of the bathroom door, saying nothing merely observing with childhood fascination.
Judith studied her daughters face with swelling pride.
Whats up, sweetie pie? Paul asked.
Springs face blossomed at the sound of one of her fathers many endearing nicknames. She shook her head. Nuffin.
Paul chuckled. Nuffin, huh, Muffin?
Springs face wrinkled in confusion. Whats muffin?
Paul raised an eyebrow to his wife, and she said, A muffin is a baked good like bread or cupcakes and people usually eat muffins for breakfast but they dont have to.
I want a muffin! Spring squealed.
We dont have any muffins. Paul explained.
But I want a muffin! Muffin, muffin, muffin! She said somewhere between a whine and a tantrum.
Paul opened his mouth but Judith interjected. Now Spring, behave. Mommy will buy you some muffins the next time shes at the store. Until then how about I make you some of Grammys famous blueberry pancakes?
Boo-Berry! Yay! Thank you mommy! She ran off to tell her dolls the good news.
Judith turned to Paul and gave him a look that said, thats how its done.
Paul waved her away. Go make your pancakes, woman. Get to the kitchen, where you belong, and let me finish getting ready. He said with a devilish grin.
Where I belong? Ooh youre lucky I know youre teasing, buster. Otherwise your ass would be grass.
Tsk tsk, easy-peasy. Im only teasing.
And Im only saying She said and walked out.
When she was out of earshot Paul muttered, Yeah, Id like to see you try, you couldnt harm a fly. and he checked himself in the mirror to put on his tie.
Judith was mixing the batter when Paul entered the kitchen, looking neat and smelling woodsy from a generous application of his favorite cologne.
Wheres the paper? He asked as he scanned the dining table.
I dont know, probably still outside. She answered.
What? You didnt get it?
Judith rolled her eyes. No I did. I made it invisible too just to spite you.
Paul frowned. Ok, smart ass. He opened the front door and shut it behind him.
Damn right smart ass. My ass graduated with a masters in sarcasm. Judith told no one in particular, and then laughed at her frivolity.
Paul came back with the paper as Judith was pouring the batter on the skillet.
He took his seat at the head of the table and opened the paper before him, which he read in silence, with the sizzle of Judiths cooking for ambiance.
After a few minutes, Judith yelled, Spring! Theyre ready!
How many do you want, hun? She asked Paul.
Hmm? What? He turned to look at her and she nodded at the pancakes. Oh, right. Put me down for the usual.
Of course. A stack of three it is, a holy order for Mr. Consistent.
Paul ignored her.
Spring came in holding Sebastian and took her seat. She put the crab on the table next to her.
Judith brought the plates, silverware, and condiments to the table, and went back for the pancakes.
When they were all sitting down, Paul led them in saying Grace.
Judith felt a stronger desire than normal to protest, but she bit her tongue, and said the requisite Amen instead.
Everyone ate and kept to themselves, then Spring said, These are yummy Mommy!
Judith smiled. Thanks sweetie. What does your Sebastian think?
Paul looked up from the newspaper. Probably that we should be eating Kelp Pancakes instead.
Judith laughed, and Spring joined in, although it was clear she was only laughing for appearance.
After the laughter died down, Paul declared, without looking up from his paper, Im taking Spring to that interview tomorrow.
Judith sighed. Paul, I really dont want her to go to Trinity. I dont want her to follow that path. Im sorry, Ive held my tongue for far too long, and I cant keep quiet any longer. I wont have my daughters childhood stained.
Paul looked up, flabbergasted. What? Stained? What in the world are you talking about?
Im just saying I want our daughter to be free to enjoy and explore her childhood. I dont want anyone thats not us telling her whats right and wrong, and scaring her into believing anything with threats of fire and brimstone, and stories that are as archaic as the thought processes they represent.
Paul hit the table with his fist, which made his wife and daughter jump. I will not raise my daughter to be a Godless whore like He stopped himself.
Judiths nostrils flared, but calmly she told Spring to go watch TV. When the TV came on, Judith said with a calmness that defied her grinding jaw and fiery eyes. Like who Paul? Like me? Is that what you were going to say? Where you about to call me that in front of our daughter?
Paul shook his head vehemently. No, no, I would never
Judiths eyes shimmered with a reserved pain. I cant believe you. You knew my outlook when we married. You said you were ok with that. So why did you marry me if my lack of faith is really such a horrible thing?
Because Paul tried to explain, Because you arent horrible. Youre beautiful, in fact, and so damn smart. And I honestly believed after a while, especially after we had kids, you would accept God back into your life.
Judith sighed again, and was about to speak when Spring bounced back into the kitchen. Can I go play with Lulu?
Paul waved her away. Sure, but dont wonder off.
Spring went outside and when the door closed, Paul said, I dont know what to do. Obviously you dont get how important my spirituality is to me.
Judith shook her head. No, no, Im not trying to take that away from you. I love that about you. I dont want you to confuse that with what you got from Trinity. I think you can easily be a spiritual person without ascribing to the B.S. that Trinity commands. All Im trying to do is show you how a one hundred percent conviction in faith can be a bad thing, and I dont want to pass that on to Spring.
What the Hell Judith! So - what, you dont have a hundred percent faith in anything? Not even our Spring? Thats jacked up! Pauls voice rose and crashed like a guillotine, and his face was flushed with passion.
Judith, however, looked exhausted. Faith in the Bible is completely different than Faith in my daughter, so much so that there ought to be a different word. I have faith in my daughter because I can see how fantastically intelligent and curious she is with every passing day. You cant do that with the Bible, or any holy text for that matter.
Oh my God! Paul exclaimed. I cant believe what I am hearing! He glanced down at his watch. Oh, Damn-it! Damn-it Judith! Im late! Theyre gonna fire me for sure this time! He roared in frustration. Damn-it all to Hell Judith! You made me late for work because of your stupid, ridiculous debating! He pushed away from the table so fast he knocked the chair down, but the resulting crash and clamor meant nothing to his panicked deafness.
Calm down Paul. Take some deep breaths. Itll be alright.
Shut-up! You dont know that! He almost screamed the words at her, and he trembled with emotion. He swiped his wallet, phone, nametag and keys from the counter and knocked off a stack of receipts that fluttered to the floor.
No, I dont know. That is my whole point with everything Paul. Im ok to admit that, and you should be too.
Paul wagged an accusing finger at her. You better lay of me. He opened the door and took a step out, and turned to look at her. And I do know one thing Spring is going to that interview tomorrow and she is going to enroll at Trinity. Im putting my foot down. He slammed the door behind him.
Judith sighed and stared blankly at their unfinished breakfast.
She heard Pauls truck roar to life and quickly back out.
There was a horrible-primal-almost-inhuman cry, and the angry-shrill shriek of the trucks breaks.
Immediately Judith was on her feet and rushing outside, whispering, Please be the dog. like a mantra.
She found Paul on the ground in front of his truck, cradling their broken daughter.
No!!! Judith howled the word with all the pain possible. She ran to her family and collapsed beside her daughter.
Paul was shaking his head back and forth, rocking, and sobbing to himself.
Jesus Christ, Please God, Please, please bring back my Spring. I swear, you can take me instead. Please God, take me instead. Please God, bring back Spring.
-End-
05/08/09