Dither And Doom 6366

As I watched the riots from around the country, the memory of George Floyd continues to be debased by thuggish behavior that seems to be increasing in its violence. And as usual, the self-important celebrities feel the need to weigh in and profess their respect to the cause when in fact we all know they could give a fuck; it’s the publicity their after.

I’ve been accused of being a self-absorbed celebrity because I don’t air my opinions. I, instead put money into causes that help those who want to help themselves, which is why I work closely with the community college in helping students who deserve to be there. Talking out your ass makes you an asshole, which is why I shun the celebrity life. It’s hard to imagine a more clueless and ill-equipped bunch than celebrities who live in gated communities and are spoon-fed political dogma that they don’t fully understand.

A peaceful protest combined with necessary change over the death of George Floyd must happen, but the riots and destruction must stop and those in charge have to desist from dithering, which has allowed the riots to get out of hand. Our political system is infested with feckless politicians who look out only for themselves while giving lip service to the people who put them in power. It’s time we did something about poverty, wage stagnation, inequality, moral rot, and general indifference that has ravaged this country like a cancer. I don’t have the answers, but I have some suggestions.

When the riots subside, the blame game will begin, but it’s too late for that. This country needs to get its shit together before it collapses. With all the wasted money spent during the coronavirus lockdown and now these self-defeating riots, the country is on the brink of disaster like we’ve never seen before.

You can only dither for so long until the wolves make their move.

Riding In The Sissy Bar 6331

I got a call from Barton early this morning telling me that Jackie had a close call on his motorcycle yesterday that has Elise worried sick that he’ll kill himself. “He threw up his hands when an oncoming truck came and nearly killed Jordan and him. I tell you, Scragg, the boy just wrapped up another film and is about to start a new one. For some mysterious reason, producers think that asshole is something else, but we know the real Jackie,” the billionaire seethed. “I didn’t know Jackie had a motorcycle, but the thought alone is scary enough. However; what do you want me to do?” “Scare him, be yourself and take control.” “Why can’t you do that?” “Because I’m not threatening enough.” “What kind of bike did he buy?” “An Indian Roadmaster.”

In no time flat, Blake and I were at the Stevenson compound.

I found Jackie at his house on the compound and asked him what he was doing on a bike. He laughed and said he could handle it. “I’m good, Scragg.” “Let me see the bike,” I demanded. Jackie smirked and walked me around the corner where a beautiful red Indian was parked in all its glory. “I’m getting the hang of it,” he declared. “Give me the fucking keys, Jackie,” I said as my eyes feasted on the bike. “What,” the fool stammered. “You heard him, asshole, give up the keys or I’ll fuck you up,” Blake said in a menacing voice that scared me shitless. Jackie quickly handed over the keys. “Now, you’re going to deed this bike over to us and give your wife and family some peace of mind. If we ever catch you on a bike again you’ll have to deal with some really unpleasant people. Do you fucking hear me,” my wife snarled. “You almost killed yourself and Jordan yesterday, so knock this shit off,” I added. Blake fried his face with a wicked slap that sent the hapless aberration into tears. “Go get the fucking title,” Blake then growled.

Jackie scurried off in a flash.

“Damn, baby, that was brutal,” I said. “Look at this bike, Elmer, it’s gorgeous and today we shall ride,” my wife informed me. “I’m impressed, so much so that you can take the wheel while I relax.” “I was about to tell you that, Elmer.” “Oh, I just go to pieces when you get bossy.” “Please, you just get horny and hanker for some pain.” “True, but hey, I admit I’m weak. Maybe I’ll be more like Jackie.” “I’ll cut your fucking throat if you do that,” Blake replied in a no-nonsense voice.

With the title and keys in hand, I let Blake rough up Jackie a tad, which provided Barton with some much-needed entertainment. Elise then walked out and thanked us for showing Jackie the light. “They abused me,” he pleaded, which got him a smack from me. “I’m sorry this cost you some serious cash, Elise, but your father asked for my help,” I then said. “You’re heartless, Scragg, so just take the bike and have fun,” she replied. “That, I can do,” I declared.

We went to get Rory, who got on his bike and then called Cullen, who got up with Robert. Blake drove down to Bob and Bruce’s trailer, and my buddy walked out and said he was ready to ride. Barton joined us and everyone got a laugh as I sat in the sissy bar. “I’m man enough to let my wife take the lead,” I said. “Jackie had about as much business on that bike as my dead uncle,” Bob remarked. “Hell, your dead uncle can ride it better than him and he’s in the ground,” I replied. “Let’s ride,” Rory said, anxious to get on the road.

And it didn’t take long for Blake and me to thank the powers that be for making Jackie a dipshit.

Even if I am riding in the sissy bar.

Tender Loving Cullen 5218

Cullen came by the house with pizza, subs, and spaghetti, which made the girls day. He told me that he’ll be rejoining the band ASAP, as Daisy is doing better. “She’s doing a lot better, so I’m back,” he added. Blake smirked and said that was nice. We then laid out the food and began eating.

During supper, Cullen admitted that Daisy had all of his TLC that she could handle and told him to hit the road. “I thought I was a good boyfriend, but she said that I’m an oaf–a well-meaning oaf, but an oaf nonetheless. It’s all good, she thanked me for my efforts and stated that it’s nice to know I’m devoted to her. Oh well, I guess I still have some things to learn,” Cullen said, which made Blake break out into laughter. “You think, Cullen,” she asked. “I can admit that I don’t know everything.” “You don’t know anything.” “Not true, Blake, I’m just a little rough around the edges,” the Sorcerer said with a straight face, causing Blake to howl even more. “Oh God, you’re a riot,” my wife declared. “You should have seen me take care of her, it was impressive, at least by my standards,” he continued. I thought Blake would fall out of her chair when he said that and even I was beginning to lose it. “Alright, Cullen, you did well, and I’m sure Daisy was grateful for your efforts,” I said, trying not to laugh. “She was, and I consider my myself a kind and gentle caretaker,” he replied.

Everyone at the table did everything they could not to laugh–and failed.

“Cullen, you’re a good man, so just leave it at that,” Caroline told him. “What did I say that was so funny,” he pleaded. “You’re a sweetie,” Robin praised him while laughing. “I guess we ought to get you a nurse’s uniform,” Blake said. “Hey, I did things that I didn’t think In was capable of, so cut me some slack. I cooked, cleaned, served her meals in bed, washed the clothes. I took her her to the cooter doctor on Friday and sat among all those women without incident,” he proudly said.

Blake and the girls were in hysterics.

It’s amazing that Cullen could do any of the things he said he did while caring for Daisy, so I did cut him some slack. I also know that Daisy is relieved that he’s going back to what he does best. “If I had to I could be a caretaker and probably excel at it. You might not get traditional care, but I wouldn’t kill you,” he then said, bringing about another round of laughter.

I guess TLC stands for Tender Loving Cullen.

Kudos To The Security Officers 5216

Our fans rattled the shit out of the security personnel at the FedExField with their booming cheers and constant movement. As usual, they behaved and never crossed the line, but they let their presence be felt, which we greatly appreciated. I implored them to keep up the volume and have a grand time; advice they didn’t need because they came ready to party. They, in turn, sent us enough energy to power us through several shows. When the lights went on, they let out one last roar that startled many of the security officers. The band gave them a bow and a thumbs up.

As we headed to the tunnel, a young security officer asked me if it was necessary to pump up the fans and get them even rowdier. I looked at the fresh-faced youngster and told him that it was absolutely necessary for me to do that. “They came her to have fun, and they did, so mission accomplished for us,” I replied. “Don’t you think that was a little much,” he continued. “No, Sir.” “I thought it was extreme,” he then said. I kept walking, ignoring the young man who obviously doesn’t get out enough, but he continued to press the issue. “Sir, we don’t want a repeat of this tomorrow,” he said in a curt tone. “You’ll be fine, according to the chief of security, there were no ugly incidents, so it’s all good,” I replied. Fortunately, an older security officer stepped in and told the youngster, whose name was Kyle, to pipe down and get a handle. “You don’t have enough experience to be giving out advice, and the Scragg Man certainly doesn’t need to hear it, so shut it,” the officer said, which quieted and mortified the tight-assed youngster. “Great show, Scragg, I can’t wait for tomorrow,” the older officer then told me. “Neither can I, Sir,” I replied.

On the way back to the hotel, Rory asked me about Kyle the Security Officer, which made me chuckle. “That boy needs to lighten up,” I remarked. “I’ve never seen that happen before, Scragg, and it takes a dumb fuck to say that to a performer,” Rory said. “Yeah, but he’s young and inexperienced. I don’t foresee a fruitful career in security or law enforcement for him, but that’s okay, maybe he’ll find something more to his liking.” “Scragg, he doesn’t need to be on an assignment like that, in fact, he probably should be sent home.” “That’s not our call.” “I know, Scragg, but that boy is going to get himself hurt.” “Well, he has a boss and I rather suspect he’ll get an earful from him if he already hasn’t. Security is a tough business, they don’t get a lot of respect, yet, they’re invaluable and allow events like the one we just performed to happen. That said, it takes a degree of skill and savvy to be good at it, qualities that Kyle has yet to acquire or may lack altogether,” I replied. “True, but it was still fucked up what he did. He reminded me of a kid I knew when I was a teenager. He was a serious boy who followed the rules to the point of absurdity, which made him a laughingstock. The last I heard of him he was living at home looking for a job. He couldn’t make it as a cop and was fired from a security job for being a dick. I don’t know what you do with people like that,” Rory said. “Hopefully, they find something that doesn’t require much interaction with the public,” I commented. “I guess I didn’t need to bring any of this up, I just thought that security guy was out-of-line, mainly from being clueless,” Rory added before dropping the subject.

Security officers generally work long hours for low pay and get minimal respect from the public. Some of them are poorly trained and motivated, but not all of them. There are a lot of hard-working people doing security work and protecting people from harm. Despite being uptight, Kyle did help keep us and our fans safe. It’s easy to dismiss security personnel as wannabe cops or flunkies, but the next time you go to the mall, a fair, festival, or concert, it’s the security personnel keep things under control.

And that isn’t an easy job.

Holding On To Time 2872

I spent the day talking French with Gio and Rayne, who picked it up like a sponge. I ordered language programs for them, which will have them speaking it fluently in no time. They already have a firm grasp of Spanish, so they’re well on their way to becoming multi-linguists. My two granddaughters are bright, so they pick things up quickly. I’m also impressed with their enthusiasm for learning, which also expedites the process. Rayne told me that she wants to sing a pop song in French, because she said it would sound cool. Gio picked up a magazine and began translating the words on the cover. I laughed and told them both to keep learning fun.

After lunch, I took my granddaughters to the serpentarium, which is always a hit with them. Gio asked me what I would do if I came upon a deadly snake. “Run,” I replied. “You wouldn’t try to pick it up?” “No, I may be crazy, but I do have a lick of sense.” “That green mamba is pretty, but I guess if he bites you, it’s all over,” Rayne said. “That would not be a good situation.” The girls then continued to study the deadly creatures.

In an age where youngsters spend too much time on electronic devices that teach them how to talk shit in abbreviations, kill people, and blow stuff up, it’s nice to see them actually learning about nature and getting knowledge that has nothing to do with a laptop, or iPhone. I worry that we’re raising a generation of sheep who blindly buy the next gadget without regard for practicality, or price. It’s easy to buy your kids stuff to keep them occupied, but I’ve yet to see where that does anything but create spoiled brats who are out of touch with the real world. Nothing replaces the quality time you spend with your children and grandkids, doing things that create memories, which will last a lifetime.

Damn, I must be getting old.

We went back to the house, and played some music. I was impressed with their prodigious musical skill that Caroline has nurtured–and tempered–with a reasonable schedule and her insistence that they do well in school. I know she has her hands full, but she’s managed to raise polite girls with a strong desire to learn, which is a major accomplishment.

Caroline arrived back at the house wearing a contented look. She said she and Dr. Myrick went to lunch, and then caught a movie. “He’s got an early day tomorrow, so we called it day after the film. What did you guys do today,” she asked. I told her, and she recoiled when I mentioned the serpentarium. Gio and Rayne said that they had a grand time. Caroline then told her girls to get ready to head home. The girls didn’t want to go, but they didn’t give their mother a hard time. I got hugs and kisses, and then I was alone again.

I stepped outside and thought about the day. I smiled as I replayed it in my mind. I know the day will come when seeing grandpa won’t be the big deal it is now.

Sometimes I wish I could hold on to time.

A Crisis Over Nothing 2634

We arrived home after a lively lunch. Brie called Blake, who listened with a quizzical face. I asked if there was a problem, and she shrugged. After listening to Brie ramble on, she was finally able to get off the phone. “Brie said Rene called her asking for Honey’s number, which she didn’t have, so she called Kevin, who was with the kids at the store, and he refused to give it to her. Rene then called Honey all kinds of terrible names, which angered Brie, who told her she was crazy. Rene is currently threatening Chase to give up the number,” Blake said.

What the fuck?

“Why doesn’t Gert just call Dave,” I asked. “Elmer, it’s the Stevenson’s,” my wife replied.

And that explains it all.

Chase called me and told me not to give Rene Honey’s phone number. “This shit is crazy, so ignore her. I hate that this has become an issue, but leave it to Rene to start some shit ” I wanted to be surprised, but nothing that crazy family does shocks me, anymore. I told Blake that I do feel bad for Tabitha, because it’s always going to be something stupid that keeps the pot stirred there. “You think they could find something more constructive to do with their lives, but they elect to get involved with nonsense like this, which always leaves them looking like the out-of-touch billionaires they are. I’m also concerned that Gert is heading for disaster. She can’t live her life through other people, or should I say: if she continued to live her life through other people, her life is really going to suck in her golden years. I’m going to get changed and relax,” I then said.

I just got comfortable when Johnny called. I knew this had something to do with Rene, so prepared for the worst. “Scragg, what’s this shit with Rene,” he asked. “All I know is that she thinks you kidnapped Dave,” I replied. “He willingly came along, but I’m thinking about tying him up and never letting him go, which will be doing him a favor,” the munchkin replied. “I guess she called you,” I asked. “Yes, she called me and said that Dave was needed back there because Gert was heartsick. I told her that she was fucking crazy and needed to get a life, which prompted her to scream obscenities at me. I recorded them for future use, and she better believe me when I say I’ll use them against her. She’s not going to call Honey those names, or threaten us. We’re not billionaires, but we have the means to fight back,” Johnny replied.

Oh fuck.

“Alright, this is just the rantings of an over-emotional woman, so don’t get too frazzled by her,” I said, knowing that wouldn’t placate Johnny. “I’m not frazzled, Scragg, I’m just telling you what’s going to happen if this becomes an issue,” he replied. “It’s probably nothing,” I pleaded. “With probably being the operative word. She’s not talking to Honey, nor, is she going to harass us, so I would suggest that someone reason with her,” Johnny replied before wishing me a good day.

Only the Stevenson’s.

I told Blake what Johnny told me. She shook her said and said that this will play out according to what Rene does. “I’m through with trying to understand the warped minds of those people, so let’s enjoy the rest of the evening,” she then said.

I laughed and pondered how much easier it was when I was just a cook.

No Suffering Saint 2609

I arrived home to find my all my daughters chatting with Blake, who was holding little Michael. Paige told me that her husband got called to the hospital for an emergency, so she came over to have dinner with us. Caroline and the girls stopped over to get an update on the film, but the details weren’t suitable for children. Robin was there to glower at me for having Farley sent to Halifax for some shots. I told her that I had nothing to do with that, and I was being truthful, but she elected to believe otherwise.

Oh well.

Paige and my granddaughters prepared a spaghetti dinner that turned out well despite the lack of planning. We all then sat down for dinner and enjoyed the family time. Paige was talking about the movie score when my phone went off. I saw that it was from Laura, so I took it. I greeted my sister, who was slightly agitated. “I don’t know about Bonnie, Scragg, she’s talking a lot of shit about her days as a prostitute, which were obviously bad, but she got graphic and it was upsetting. Apparently rape and assault were common for our mother and the rest of the women who worked in that terrible trade. I don’t want your girls subjected to this,” she said. “I know, and it’ll just be you and me with Bonnie,” I replied. “She’s got a lot of jewelry, pictures, and trinkets that our mother had.

Laura then went silent for a few moments.

“I have a wonderful mother, Scragg, but…” “Miss Ellen is a fine woman, so please don’t refer to her as anything else but ‘Mama’ I said. “I know, but Verna lived such a sad life, Scragg, and she was so overwhelmed. I just want to scream and…” “I’ll talk to Bonnie on Sunday,” I cut-in. “Verna had her issues, but I guess you knew that,” my sister solemnly said. “She was no suffering saint, but she was mostly good, Laura. You grew up in privilege, and now you’re seeing what her life was like, which was vastly different from yours.” “I was lucky, Scragg.” “And you made the most of it, so don’t go feeling guilty for your wonderful upbringing.” “I’ll see you on Sunday,” Laura said. “Sounds like a plan,” I replied before clicking off.

Looking into the past can reveal some ugly shit.

“Is everything alright,” Blake asked. “Oh yeah, Laura just got a full dose of Bonnie, which can be unsettling.” “And she has some horrible tales to tell,” Paige asked. “Yes.” “Grandmother lived a hard life, so there would be some rough times,” she added. “That’s right, but let’s not dwell on that. Mama would want you all to be happy and is thankful that none of you will have to live the life she did.” “So it’s only going to be you and Laura talking with Bonnie,” Robin asked. “Yes, it’s liable to get a tad ugly, so let me handle this.” “Verna wasn’t a suffering saint,” Caroline asked. “No, she wasn’t, and she learned a lot of ugly things during those miserable years, which was unfortunate, but understandable.” “It’s never like you want it to be,” Paige said. “But the suffering saint wouldn’t have been believable, anyway, so we’ll have to deal with the truth,” she added.

And that’s the truth.

Clearheaded Opportunities 2603

Blake and I were watching television when a commercial for a cruise line came on. I normally tune them out, but I couldn’t help but notice this one because Milt’s song, “Being Who You Are” was used in it. I laughed and told Blake that the old boy still has it. “That’s one way to profit off an album,” I said. “And he has a bunch of songs on it that could be used for commercials.” “It’s a bouncy tune and his voice is surprisingly pleasant for being so gruff,” my wife added. “Good for Milt, he deserves this.” “Who’s his manager,” Blake asked. “Bill Price, who apparently knows how to work it.” When the commercial ended, I called Milt, and told him about what we just watched. He laughed and said that Bill did a good job. “I also have one coming up the Missouri Department of Tourism; they’re using, “Sunny Day On The River” I can’t complain, the album has done better than I could have imagined, and I was fortunate to have so many great players on it. Robin’s piano really stands out,” the old rocker said, deflecting the praise from himself. “I just wanted to tell you about that, buddy, and good job for making it work for you.” “I’m trying, oh by the way, “Dead End Men” has been picked up by Alliance Films, a small company that specializes in straight-to-video and video-on-demand. It’s the best we could do, but Kyle said that the film could still make a lot of money. I just delighted it got made. I realize that traditional films take months of planning and require a lot of detail work, but I think we proved there is another way. Maybe more planning was necessary, but I’m proud of how the film turned out,” Milt said. “It’s an excellent film, and let me know when it’s going to be released so I can post it on my website,” I replied “Will do.” “I hear we’ll be heading down to Halifax shortly, which will be a nice change from that studio. Bruce told me that a lot of your scenes have already been shot down there.” They have, and it’s been a pleasant shoot. I can’t believe how quickly this crew works. They also can make anyplace look like anyplace. It’s really amazing,” Milt replied. “It sure is. Paul said that they had a crew in Kansas film some of the landscape out there, which will be used in the film. He’s a sharp and he gets things done, which I all I care about.” “He does that, and the accommodations are great,” the old rocker replied.

I never imagined Milt and I would be talking about movies, but then again, I never thought we would be actors. So many things have changed since I got my shit together, which have led to opportunities that I could never imagine. I also never could have imagined that Blake would become a great screenwriter. And Bob and Bruce; well, that’s unreal, too.

Good things happen when you have a clear head.

The Unknowable Mind 2602

Byron and I stood outside in field watching a man on a horse in the distance. An epiphany comes to both of them as the watch the man deftly maneuver the horse. “That’s it, Doc, he uses a horse to trap his victims.” “I believe you’re right, sheriff, now you have to find someone who’s mad enough to commit such unspeakable crimes.” “He’s a young man with a hatred for authority and men in general. Killing gives him some relief from his rage, but it doesn’t last long and it never will because he’s not complete.” “Are any of us,” my character asks.

If we’re all scarred, then why don’t we all kill indiscriminately? Why didn’t mother’s rage against men turn her into a killer? Why are there Gene Valls, Kellen Manders–and Lyle–while some of the most traumatized people never harm a soul? It’s a question Blake poses in this movie, but doesn’t attempt to answer because she knows all too well that the human mind is unknowable. A person with a seemingly normal brain, such as John Wayne Gacy, is able to kill without remorse. If the clues cannot be found in the brain, then where do you look?

I remember the look the Rory gave me when he realized I was going to kill Fulton Houser. Cullen’s expression after I did just that was also telling. I don’t believe either of them would have taken the shot, which is by no way a criticism, it’s just an honest assessment. What is it in me that allowed me to take that shot, while others wouldn’t?

I then thought about DeWayne and Chuck Gilzan.

Once I got the upper-hand, I showed no mercy. DeWayne’s bluster was nothing more than a plea to spare his life, which I didn’t. Chuck knew his life was over, but still managed tears of fear and plea for mercy, but I wasn’t swayed. It was a dangerous situation that was going to end. The irony of it was that they drove us to secluded location to kill us, but it backfired, and when they lost control, they doomed themselves to death.

And I felt nothing.

“What are you thinking about,” Paul asked me. “Just looking ahead,” I replied. “That’s a good thing.” “Yes it is, and I always try to imagine what it’ll be like down the road, knowing that surprises are always in store,” I replied. “This film is coming along nicely, Scragg, and you’re doing great. It’s scarier than any monster movie because people like mark Mandan exist. I can’t help but wonder how someone could do that,” Paul asked. “Just pull the trigger, or in this case: strangle, beat and stab someone. That’s what it must be like for them,” I replied. The director gave me an inquisitive look. “But he’s killing innocent people,” he then said. “As you said: they’re scary people.”

People are scary.

Bad Ole Days 2600

“Oh Ding Dong, come and blow up my pussy.” “The Ding Donger can do it, Ma’am, just let me light the fuse.” “Give it to me Ding Dong, my pussy is hungry for your stiff rod.” “The Ding Donher is ready, Ma’am, so prepare for the explosion.”

Damn, I said shit like that?

Bonnie Bazemore got on top of me and began to ride like a banshee. “Lift up, Dong, you’re already gettin’ it.” “I’m a liftin’ just keep a shiftin” “Suck my tits, Donger.” I buried my face in her boobs. “Donger, I’m coming!” “Keep it pumping, Ma’am.” “You little fucking bastard!” “Ride, ride, ride!” “Dooong!” “I’m giving you my schlooong!” Bonnie then slapped my face. “You’re a naughty fucking boy, Dong, lift up and fuck!” “That slap has me feeling like a piston!” Bonnie slapped me again. “Dooong, I’m coming again.” “Keep it going.” “Puss-A!” “I’m like Jell-O.” “Keep ridin’, Bonnie Boop.” “I can’t move, otherwise I’d kick the shit outta you for saying that.” “I guess you are an old lady.” “You no good fucker!”

Jell-O turned to steel.

“You fucking punk, I’m gonna ride you until you pass out.” “Your tits are bouncing in perfect time.” “Donger!”

Bonnie then collapsed.

Blake wore a reddened look of horror throughout the clip, which was outrageous. She gave me a look of disbelief, before shaking her head in disbelief. “How old were you,” she asked. “Nineteen.” “And how old was this Bonnie?” “Forty-seven,” Laura answered. “Elmer!” “Well, it was her idea, but I reckon I could have used better judgment,” I said. My wife looked at me like I was insane. “You’re incredible; you’d do anything if someone put a camera in front of you,” she said. “No, it’s just that Bonnie knew some people in the porn industry and she wanted to have one more fling. I mean, how could I say no,” I replied like an idiot. Blake just looked at me as if I were an alien. “Richard thought it would be finny to get this on DVD, so he went to Willie, and he had it done,” Laura said. “Bonnie said that she wanted to talk to you, which I said wasn’t a good idea. She then told me that she would make these public if I didn’t arrange it. Apparently, she believed me because she gave all this stuff to me.” “I’ll talk to her next week,” I replied.

Blake let out a laugh.

“Are you serious,” she then asked. “A deal’s a deal, Blake.” “Who is this woman,” she then asked Laura. “An old porn star, prostitute, and general character. She worked as a waitress at greasy dive for years. She’s a nice gal, but she did have quite a youth,” my sister replied. Blake shook her head and then laughed.

We then looked at the dirty pictures that were rather explicit. I cringed as I looked at myself as a stupid young man with zilcho self-respect. Bonnie looked good for a woman her age and rough experiences. “I figured it was best to get these in your hands, so do what you want with them. I would have burned them, but I suspect Bonnie might have copies, so formulate a plan in case she goes public with them. I’m sure glad these days are behind you,” Laura told me. “She had a terrible upbringing, but Bonnie always maintained a smile, even though she had a burning hatred of society. Anyway, it’s in the past and perhaps she’s found peace. She knew Mama from her days as a prostitute, which were terrible. Let’s put this away and hope that Bonnie doesn’t decide to go public. I’ll talk to her next weekend,” I said.

Blake gave me a compassionate look as I walked into the kitchen.

I’m sure Bonnie can recall the bad ole days.