Dead on the Fourth of July (David Dean Mysteries)

Cynthia didn't answer and the silence became nerve racking. Finally, Randy continued.

"Look, ma. My marks are great and so are Jen's. I can take classes in the off season."

"Tell me you're not dropping out of school!" There was ice in Cynthia's voice.

"Ma, babies are expensive. I can take classes later. . ."

"God, Randy, it's your final year! Jen's, too! All the effort we've put into getting your education-just to toss it away. . . ."

Dean closed his eyes as Randy explained excitedly about an offer to play ball. He repeated his intentions to continue his education in the off season, skirting the fact he'd be kissing off the final year of his scholarship. He would play semi pro ball over the summer, and maybe, if he could get signed, Mexican or South American ball in the winter.

"What 'off season'?" Cynthia repeated. "What about the World Series and the Super Bowl and all that nonsense? They practically play baseball all year!"

In spite of the seriousness of the situation, Dean was forced to stifle a chuckle.

"Trust me, ma. Please?"

"Rose Calvia will. . ."

"I know ma, I know. But it's not as if I took advantage of Jen- it was a mistake."

Dean asked, "Do Jen's parents know?"

A five second pause. "No. Not yet. We're going over there for dinner tomorrow."

Dean could picture the meal. After they dragged Jen off to confession, the Calvias would stick around and rent the church for the wedding-if Randy was still alive. He wanted to warn the young man to wear a bulletproof vest and keep his hands in his lap for protection. Dean knew Joe Calvia; they'd met when he was first dating Cynthia. Joe was a no-nonsense long-haul truck driver and a do-or-die baseball fan. He thought the world of Randy. At least up until now. Joe wouldn't take kindly to his daughter's surprise motherhood. In Joe's eyes, the sun rose and set on his eldest daughter Jen, who was a super achiever, pretty as spring, and a delight to be around. Randy and Jen made a great pair and Dean knew it would all work out in the long haul. It was the short haul that needed work.

He couldn't help but compare the situation to Billy Langstrom's. At least Randy and Jen had years of history together, most of their education behind them, and what would ultimately prove to be supportive parents. He hoped Billy and his betrothed had something.

Randy continued to talk, more rapidly than necessary, mentioning a small wedding. Dean could hear the sound of Cynthia crying and then the click as she hung up the extension.