“Yeah, so?”
“Well, suppose—for argument’s sake—I write up a little article to send to the newspapers, about how the revered Oklahoma Territory Senator Jesse Cochran grew up in a brothel? Inform them the man who espouses family values, and signs bills to close down the brothels had a mother who made her living in a whore house?”
“I know you’ll accuse me of being stupid, but I don’t understand how writing an article for the newspaper will help.”
His good humor restored, Clarence cupped her chin gently, and smiled. “I’ll write the article, but I won’t send the story to the newspaper.”
She continued to stare at him, her brows furrowed.
“My dear, I will bring the article to Heidi. I’ll let her read all the scintillating details, and then I’ll tell her either she goes through with our wedding—now—or the article will be mailed to The Guthrie Sentinel, and The Oklahoman.” He shrugged into hi
s shirt, and quickly buttoned it. “If she cares as much for Michael Henderson, as I believe she does, she won’t want to see the whole family destroyed by this information getting out.”
“Do you think it would really work?”
“Oh, I’m sure of it. Heidi is a soft hearted bitch. She would never allow anything terrible to happen because of her. Believe me, we are now back in the game.” He moved to the small desk in the corner of the room.
Gloria scooped up her dressing gown from the edge of the bed, and slipped on the silk wrap as she joined him.
He slammed drawers as he opened and closed them. “Isn’t there any goddamn paper here?”
Gloria shrugged. “I don’t know, I never write anything.”
He looked up at her. “I’m sure.”
Clarence slammed the last drawer shut, and pushed back his chair. “Get dressed. We’re going to dinner. But before that, I’ll visit The Guthrie Pharmacy, where I know they sell paper and pencils. What a nice touch to buy the supplies that will crush the little bitch, right from her soft little hands.” He grinned.
“Wait, I can’t show up there with you.”
“I know. You can wait at the restaurant and I’ll meet you there.” He smacked her on her curvy bottom. “Get dressed. Tomorrow I’ll have a wonderful time informing Heidi about our relationship. I’m sure she’ll love knowing her daddy’s money will keep you in the best of dresses, and finest of jewels.”
****
Heidi ruffled little Willie’s hair as she wished Mrs. Parker a good day, and handed the young mother the package of hairpins and barrettes she’d just purchased. She checked her watch, and noted only another hour and they would close the store.
She’d awoken that morning happier than she’d been her entire life. Michael loved her. He hadn’t said as much, but the feeling grew stronger as the day progressed. His feelings were there in his eyes every time he looked at her, in his touch, on her arm, shoulder, or hand, when he passed. Almost as if he couldn’t keep his hands off her.
Her heart soared. She would have a happy, fulfilled life after all. They would marry, and she would move into his house. She would cook and clean for him, wash his laundry, and maybe, hopefully, one day bear his child. A little boy who looked like him.
They’d been quiet during breakfast, and again at lunch when they walked together to the coffee shop. Almost as if neither one wanted to diminish the newness of their relationship by speaking about it. With her arm tucked snugly into his, she had all she needed. To inhale the scent of his skin, the woodsy smell of his soap. To feel him close to her, remembering the thrill of his touches on her bare skin. Of his kisses heating her blood. She would have all of that. Forever.
The doorbell brought her out of her musings. To her shock and dismay, Clarence entered the store, smiling smugly at her. While Heidi stood still, her mouth in a perfect circle, he approached her, grinning like he held a secret.
“Clarence? What are you doing here today. It’s not Friday.”
He winked at her. “Really, my dear? You’re a very observant woman.”
Michael left the prescription he mixed and joined her behind the counter. “What do you want, Manfred?”
“My, my. Ever the protector. Hello, Michael. It’s so good to see you again.” His bright smile never reached his eyes.
Michael widened his stance and crossed his arms.
“I’m a customer, Henderson. I’ve come to buy paper and a pencil.”
Heidi shook her head, and pointed across the aisle. “Over there.”
Clarence bowed slightly, still grinning, and headed to where Heidi pointed.