Whisper In The Wind

"William was and is my one true love. To kiss another man or live in this house with another man, I couldn't do it. I do not for one second regret my decision. I have wonderful friends and neighbors who are my family."

Caitlin understood the older woman's feelings. She said good night wanting time to relax and think about Garrett. As Caitlin lay in bed, thoughts of Garrett danced in her mind, leaving wonderful dreams. "I want to be in his life for eternity. I want a love like Grandma Emmaline and granddaddy shared- a love to transcend all space and time. The idea of waking up beside him, falling asleep in his arms, and sharing our dreams sounds wonderful. He says he loves me, but does he want marriage? Did Barbara destroy that dream for us?"

Taking a deep breath, Caitlin reminded herself to stay calm. Concentrate on the day. No need to rush the future. It's coming regardless; so enjoy each day with Garrett. Let it happen naturally. Over the next week, Caitlin and Rachel stayed busy with furnishing the house and hanging curtains. With the last room finished, the women sank onto the bottom stair and exhaled loudly and then laughed. "Thanks, partner," Rachel said holding out her hand.

"It was your idea," Caitlin said shaking the hand. "I was the helper."

"What a tremendous help it was. I didn't think I could handle the physical labor, but I feel better than I did ten years ago. I can hear the voices now and smell the food cooking."

Caitlin stretched her legs out and leaned against the step. Visions of couples celebrating forty and fifty years of marriage filled the house. Homemade cookies, pies, and desserts offered succulent aromas. Fresh cut flowers adorned each room. This was the quietest place on earth to celebrate unity. "You will be successful," she said, patting her grandmother's knee.

"There will always be a room for you, love, if you ever need to get away from the ranch." Rachel hit herself on the head with her hand. "Oh no. If I'm running this I can't help you."

"It's okay. I'll manage."

"Yes you will, because you are Caitlin-strong, independent, and smart."

The phone rang startling Caitlin. Ever since that first phone call after the funeral, she had detested the sound of a ringing phone. Did the person know she was here? Perhaps it was best to leave before her grandma got caught in the crossfire. I knew it was wrong to come back and put my friends and family in danger. Rachel answered. "Yes she is, Garrett. One moment."