Harmony Cabins (Finding Home 2)

It had been years since he’d been to the Fever residence. Memories of visiting Doreen’s son, Ean, while they were still in high school, returned. Despite the new carpeting, furniture, and wall treatment, the home still felt familiar.

Jack shoved his hands into his dark gray walking shorts. His palms were sweating. What was he doing?

“Am I interrupting your dinner?” It was five in the evening. Jack had put off this meeting for as long as he could.

“You’re not.” Curiosity had nudged out shock in Doreen’s eyes. “I’d heard you went to Belinda’s salon. You look good. Can I get you anything?”

“Ice water would be great. Thank you.” He followed his hostess into her kitchen and took the seat at her blond-wood table.

Doreen joined him, handing Jack one of the two glasses. “It’s great to see you, Jack. But I can’t help wondering why you’re here.”

Jack took a fortifying gulp of the ice-cold water. “I’ll participate in the Founders Day Celebration.”

Doreen’s face glowed with pleasure. She pressed her hands together in a silent clap. “That’s wonderful! Jack, we were so hoping you’d—”

“I’ll give a speech, but don’t expect it to be long.”

Doreen laughed. “Promise you’ll say something more than ‘Thanks for coming.’”

Jack smiled. “I promise.”

“This really will be an exciting day. The celebration’s going to start with a parade down Main Street, featuring civic groups, the high school and junior high school marching bands and cheerleaders, and the town council members.”

Jack felt obliged to respond. “Great.”

“Ramona and several of the former mayors will give speeches.”

That surprised him. “They’re returning to Trinity Falls for the sesquicentennial?”

“Of course. Scores of former residents are coming home for the event, too.”

“I’m amazed.” And humbled.

Doreen continued. “The university’s concert band will perform. Then, in the evening, we’ll have a fireworks show and more music. So, what do you think?”

“Sounds great.” Jack finished his water.

“Are there any events you’d like to add?”

“No, you’re doing a great job. Thanks, Doreen.”

“Thank you.” Her round cocoa cheeks flushed. “But are you sure there isn’t anything we should add? Perhaps we could present a plaque to your family.”

“That’s not necessary.”

Doreen smiled. “You’re a lot like your parents, Jack. They didn’t like being in the limelight, either.”

Jack stood. “I don’t want to help plan the celebration. Just tell me when to show up and what to do. But don’t expect me to participate in more than one event.”

Doreen rose with him. “That’s fair enough. I’m really glad you changed your mind about being part of Founders Day. It wouldn’t have been complete without you.”

Jack didn’t know what to say, so he changed the subject. “Thanks for the water.” He put his empty glass in the sink, then turned to leave.

Doreen accompanied him. “I heard Simon went to see you.”

“Is it true he wants a role in the event?”

“I’ve assigned him to escort one of the floats.”