Thunder Rolls

THE THUNDER ROLLS

The late August dawn arrived as a mid-summer blast. Heavy, wet heat sapped energy and paled faces, making it difficult to move. Sharlene Dixon felt beads of sweat roll between her breasts. She was mortified by the thought of addressing this delicate situation at the grocery store. For goodness sake, she thought, everyone would notice. A softly murmured ‘tch,tch’ sound escaped from her throat. She simply would not allow a public display to ruin her reputation as a good wife and mother.

Family groceries had to be purchased no matter the weather. She believed it was her duty to her family. Her husband David was a wonderful family man besides being respected in business. Dixon Construction was number one in this part of the south. Sharlene could never let something as trivial as the sweltering southern heat, let alone her own comfort, interfere with keeping David happy.

Ambling slowly through the store, Sharlene looking disheveled and nervous She was trying to focus. To her eye, the vegetables were limp and pale, much as she felt. A wave of dizzy circles passed across her eyes. She shook it off and searched the fruit bins. Reaching down she chose a wilted and sagging apple. How could she buy these to offer her family? Her mind wandered, confused by this dilemma.

The past few weeks held many moments like this one. Cloudy thoughts accompanied by lost time were becoming commonplace. Focusing felt impossible to Sharlene. Some nameless, nagging fear about David played near the edges of her mind. Like this dinner he was attending tonight. Why did she feel something was wrong?

Suddenly, the grocery aisle narrowed and she bumped hard, into a carefully layered soft drink display. Echoes of shattering glass soda bottles reached her ears. What happened, Sharlene was confused. But she knew. Deep down, she knew.

Kevin McCurdy was busy stacking avocados for tomorrow's sale. Crashing glass startled him and he spun around. There was Mrs Dixon frantically trying to stop the soda display from collapsing. He sprinted to reach a swaying case of soda just in the nick of time. Whew, that was lucky, he thought. He couldn’t count how many spills he had cleaned up during his two years here.

"I am so-o sorry Kevin," Mrs. Dixon looked small and confused. Was she dazed or was it the heat? Humid days sure brought out the strange in people. He smiled at Mrs. Dixon as reassuringly as possible.

"Don't worry about it Mrs D. Besides, it's not like we don't know you around here." Sharlene's eyes widened and her mouth dropped open. Kevin was getting nervous. Oh, Jeez, I don't think this is helping, he thought.
"No, I-I mean, we know you are usually so careful. You know what I mean Mrs. D?" Kevin scratched the side of his head nervously. He watched Mrs. Dixon disappear quickly around the next aisle.


Sharlene concentrated hard to clear her foggy mind and focus only on family shopping. She would not allow her mind to wander again! 45 minutes later, leaving the store, Sharlene was smiling from ear to ear, quite content with her efforts. The final total before coupons was 122.34. But, she had saved her family a whopping 45.30. Coupon clipping and circular reading really paid off. It was all for her family. This was her life, her only path. Sharlene went home happily oblivious to the soda mishap in the grocery store.

David Dixon paced the floor of his temporary office. The trailer he’d leased for this project was beautiful. His wife Sharlene carefully picked the carpets to compliment the furniture and decor. She wanted him to feel comfortable and pampered in his work environment but right now David felt smothered.

He glanced at the cell phone in his hand. Green light glowed eerily, reflecting recent use. What in the world was he thinking? For the last 14 years he'd been comfortable with his life. Sharlene was the best catch a man could hope for. She was not only gorgeous, kind and generous, her family was prosperous and “old south”. Marrying her was the smartest thing he'd ever done. They worked hard together to get ahead. Their children David Jr and little Annabelle were 10 and 7. So far, they were on track with their plan, including the recent purchase; a four bedroom, farm style home on the outskirts of town, complete with a barn,horses and 50+ acres of undeveloped grasslands. Things were working out well and they were happy.. until now. He was sure his wife suspected infidelity, though there wasn’t any...…yet. Dropping into the oversized easy chair, he leaned back and closed his eyes. His life was spiraling out of control and David felt powerless to do anything about it now.

Marianne Rodgers moved into town four months ago. She was single and feared she might be for life. She met nice men and almost married twice. Something always gave her the feeling she would regret the decision. She was hoping a new job and new surroundings would change her luck.

Marianne met David Dixon while he was contracted to build an addition for her employer, Armstrong and Sons Tile Works. As office manager, she greeted everyone who walked through the door. David took her breath away. His sun streaked blond hair gave his soft gray gaze a sensual appeal.

“Good morning ma'am’. You’re new here. I’m David Dixon, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Marianne noticed the slight raising of color on his face. Oh my God, she thought, he’s adorable. She smiled graciously holding out her hand in greeting. His grasp was warm and strong, his smile genuine.

“Hello David, the pleasure is mine.” Her eyes met his and held a moment. “I am Marianne Rodgers, the new office manager. If you need anything feel free to call on me.”

The pair stood awkwardly, unsure what to say next. David’s face grew warmer. He stepped backward, waved and left the room. What the hell was that about? She was simply a new office manager! He swiped at the sudden band of sweat on his brow and quickened his pace.

Later in the day, Marianne walked out to the work site. He noticed highlights in her golden hair and felt lighter when she flashed her lovely smile. Glancing up from viewing her shapely legs, David smiled at her.

Marianne’s face reddened. His attention was flattering yet she was as embarrassed as a school girl. “I thought I’d come to see if cold drinks were needed” she said cheerfully.

“That’s real nice of you ma’am. We sure could use some lemonade.” David tried to stay casual.

Marianne glanced around. “How many of you are there? I never did get a count.”

“Six ma’am. If it’s no trouble for you.”

“Oh, no trouble at all. And please call me Marianne. Ma’am sounds so impersonal.” She turned away, not waiting for a response.

He watched her walk, hips gracefully swaying. M-M-M he liked this. He felt odd stirrings. Why was he thinking this way about her? He looked away and returned to work.

All day he thought of her. How would it feel running his hands over her hips, feel the silky smooth blond hair that graced her head, kiss the full lips that smiled for him? He couldn’t shake the need growing deep inside. It was all he could do to finish for the day and go home. He looked for reasons to seek her out and say goodbye.

“I’ll see you tomorrow,” she said quietly. David couldn’t wait.

6:15 was late for David to return home. Sharlene would be worried but he was ready for her questions. Backing his work truck into the spacious garage he knew this was his own fault. He was a creature of habit. She could plan around the time he would be home. 5:30 PM sharp. Dinner was always at 6:30 Pm giving him time to unwind and shower. The children were used to this routine as well. Maybe he should have varied things a bit. A man needs his own time.

“Sorry Shar,” he called coming in through the back door. “Mr Armstrong had lots of suggestions. I had a hard time getting away. You know him.” David laughed loudly.

Sharlene noticed something odd in her husband's voice. She glanced up when he laughed. Was something different? Oh, how foolish, she thought. What would be different and why? She smiled radiantly, motioning him to sit. This was her time of the day. Her family sat together around the table patiently waiting for her to serve them a home cooked meal from the menu she prepared faithfully every week.

They all bowed their heads to pray. David’s face was flushed. What was that from, she thought. 'No, stop.' The day was quite warm and the kitchen was down right hot! Of course, that was it. In fact, why didn’t she think to turn on the air conditioning? Now look at him, poor thing.

David offered the traditional grace and Sharlene began passing the serving bowls. Fried chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy and home grown string beans. Regular family fare for the Dixon’s.

“Do you need more ice water sweetie?” Sharlene asked her husband.

“No I’m fine” he replied. He was overheated but he knew Sharlene wouldn’t stop fussing. It was bad enough he couldn’t stop his thoughts of Marianne, but Sharlene’s smothering was too much. The less he gave her the better.

Sharlene got up and poured fresh water into David’s glass. “Why did you do that?” His voice was raised and sharp.

She backed away from the table. “I-I just thought you looked flushed David. I’m s-sorry.” Sharlene turned and strode quickly into the kitchen.

Oh great, thought David. Better fix this one quick. Finishing his last bite, David smiled at the children, grabbed his plate and went to the kitchen.

Sharlene was working diligently on her fresh baked bundt cake. He placed his plate in the sink and turned to her.

“I’m sorry Shar. I didn’t mean to snap at you.”

Shalene kept her attention on her work. “It’s ok David. I know you work hard for us and I will always understand. Now, go sit so I can bring the cake out” He didn’t have the heart to tell her he wasn’t hungry.

After dinner, the kids ran off to the barn. Sharlene began to clean-up and David finally had time to himself. He went downstairs to his office, closed the big oak panel door quietly and sat in his comfortable leather desk chair. Out side of the office bay window, he saw his children saddling their horses. Riding the grass hills behind the barn filled most of their spare time.

David’s thoughts drifted to Marianne. Why was he obsessing over this woman? This was silly, he chided himself. I will not carry this any further. David rose from his chair deciding to join his children. Life felt easy again.

The next few weeks proved the most difficult David Dixon ever experienced. His infatuation with Marianne grew stronger while his wife grew more and more suspicious. He was coming home late every day. Marianne worked until 5:30 and there was always something they found to talk about. Today for instance, they spoke about a new club just opening in the next town, a country line dance club. David would love to go and take her. Could he figure out a way to do this?

“I just love to dance, do you David?” Marianne’s voice was a melody to him.

“Of course I do,” he said. “Maybe we could go next weekend.” David could have died at his words.

“Could we,” she asked. Those blue eyes, so big and beautiful, how could he refuse?

“Yes, we will!” He didn’t know how just yet but they would.

Sharlene took the gloves from her hands and looked over her garden. Why were the peonies in this bed?, she thought. She must have made a mistake. She’d been doing an awful lot of that lately. Oh well, I may as well leave them, she thought, resigning herself to the result of her foolish wandering mind.
It was her own fault. She was so worried about David. What could be bothering him? He usually shared things with her but not this time. In the recesses of her mind she wondered if he was having an affair, but she couldn’t possibly take this seriously. After all, she was his only love. They’d met in high school and vowed to live together before God, forever. David was hers and she his. That was that. She would do anything to keep it that way. Anything.

Sharlene walked upstairs to clean up and stood in front of her dresser for a long moment. Her mind moved through the past days with David and she focused on one thought. She would do anything for this family. She walked to the dresser and opened the top right drawer. Looking at the contents she was satisfied. Smiling, she closed the drawer and went downstairs to start dinner.

David worked out a solid story for Sharlene. There was to be a dinner for the construction teams working for Armstrong and Sons. It was to be next Saturday night. But, how could he not take Sharlene? He would tell her it was only for the company members not family. She might buy this. He had to hope she would. His desire for Marianne was becoming an obsession he knew he had to possess. He would do anything at this point to have his way.

The night he told Sharlene was balmy. She was gathering dishes from the dinner table. He waited in the kitchen. The children had run off to the barn and were out of the way.

“Sharlene, I have a dinner on Saturday night to go to.” His voice was steady.

Sharlene turned to him excited and smiling.” Oh, David, it’s been so long since we went anywhere. What’s the occasion?”

David’s heart beat quickly. He couldn’t look at her. He fiddled with the door latch instead, examining it closely. “This is a company only dinner Shar, I’m sorry”. He could feel her eyes on him as he fiddled with the latch. “This bolt needs tightened. I’m going to fix this right now.” He all but ran from the room. Well, it was in motion, he thought. He had handled it right. Saturday night would be just fine. He proceeded to his office, the kitchen latch forgotten, Sharlene left behind.

Sharlene stood by the sink and watched him walk away. What could she think? He had never lied to her and why did she think he was now? But the shaking in her body would not stop. Her senses were screaming as she tried to calm herself. No, she told herself, Saturday night would be just fine.

Saturday morning came on with a blast of humidity to knock you over. David stayed in the office most of the day doing paper work. He heard Sharlene call out that she was going to the grocery store and called back a goodbye. He took this time to call Marianne and confirm the plans for the evening. He would take her to the club and home afterwards. If he was seeing things right, she would ask him in and the real evening would begin. He thought about this all day. It was best for him to stay out of sight until it was time to leave.

Sharlene came into the room as he was getting ready. “You look so handsome.” She smiled at David.

“Thanks” he said briefly. He felt awkward with her there.

“I hope you’ll be careful David.” she said softly.

His heart beat quickened, what is she talking about?

Sharlene’s concern showed in her furrowed brow. “The weather predicted looks bad. Terrible thunderstorms are coming this way. You know how I worry for your safety.”

David’s relief was tremendous. He smiled because she was only worried about the weather. “Don’t you give it a thought honey. I’ll be very careful.” He even leaned over her to kiss her forehead. “I’m not sure what time I’ll be home but if the roads are bad I may be late.” This storm could be just the right thing for tonight, he thought.

Sharlene watched him carefully and decided things were fine. She would wait for him to come home and everything would be normal, just as it was before. Before what?, she thought. Stop Sharlene, she thought, smiling at her foolish imagination. She watched his reflection as he adjusted his tie. He was such a handsome man and a good family man too.



David and Marianne danced until midnight. The evening was magical. He held her tightly feeling her body mold to his.. “Let’s go,” she whispered to him.

They ran to the car like children, anticipating their reward. In the distance, heat lightening flashed across the sky followed by low rumbling thunder. David paused briefly before getting into the car. He looked to the sky wondering if this was the storm Shar had warned him about? No matter, he thought. He was thrilled to be with Marianne anticipating the coming hours with her.

They pulled into her driveway having kissed and caressed the whole way. It was black outside and thunder roared closer and closer. David ignored this but the memory of Shar’s concern nagged. He drew Marianne toward him, warding off his thoughts. He didn’t want to feel the tug of his conscience.

Marianne wanted this man badly. She felt safe with David. He was the kind of man she could start a family with. His kiss was melting her. She grabbed his hand and they ran into the house just as a flash of lightening illuminated the entry. Was that fear on David’s face?, Marianne wondered.

The blast of thunder that followed was ear piercing. David turned to Marianne, noticed her concern and pulled her close to his chest. “Where are we going?”, he whispered. She smiled slyly and led him upstairs to her bed.


Hours passed before they heard the skies open up. Their own world was filled with passionate thunder. Only candles illuminated the room until suddenly, the curtains blew wildly, flashing light circling the room. Monstrous claps of thunderous noise engulfed them. They had thoroughly enjoyed their time together but David felt the need to leave. He knew he must go to Sharlene. This storm was his signal to go home.

Marianne pleaded with him to stay. He wavered, the warmth of her embrace fresh in his memory, His conscious pulled him to leave.
Running into the battering wind and driving rain, David was soaked by the time he reached his car. Rivulets of water ran onto his face blurring his vision. Wet sleeve brushed against wet face trying to clear his sight. Moving slowly, he backed out of the driveway toward his destiny. Home to his wife …Sharlene.

Pacing the floor, Sharlene’s forehead creased in worried furrows. Fear crept in about two hours ago and never lightened it’s grip. What could he be thinking? It’s 3:00 AM! Had there been an accident? She couldn’t bother the police again. At 1:30 and at 2:30 AM there had been no news regarding an accident or her beloved husband. Every light was on downstairs as she walked from room to room. Then just when she thought she would go crazy, headlights started up the long road leading to their home.

She ran to open the front door. Cold rain pelted her face soaking her night gown while she waited for him. He pulled in the drive and she ran to him. David was surprised to see her running out when he opened the car door. She rushed into his arms, crying her relief, paying no attention to her rain soaked gown. Breathing deeply she paused, …what was this scent on his shirt? They ran to the house and she went for towels. “What happened” she said slowly. He did not look at her and she just knew. Everything came together clearly. Her mind went numb.

“I see”, she said softly. Turning, she walked slowly toward the stairs. She climbed, one at a time up to her room, their room. Walls of smiling faces and happy memories taunted her. Laughter echoed in her ears. Her life mission a joke, she was humiliated and scorned. How would she ever go on? What would people say about her? Her steps were even and measured crossing the room towards the large dresser. Opening the drawer slowly, Sharlene peered inside. Her daddy was right after all. He told her she might need this someday.

David felt frozen in place. Should he go to her or leave? He stayed there for an eternity until finally, he heard her steps descending the stairs. As she walked into the room, he looked up at her for the first time. Shock preceded the sound of the trigger cocking in her hand. He moved back instinctively before he felt the bite of the bullet in his chest. Oh my God, he thought.

As he sank to the floor, feeling the rubber in his legs, she called out his name in agony. Screaming filled his ears and faded as he drifted away.

Third edit

The late August dawn arrived as a mid-summer blast. Heavy, wet heat sapped energy and paled faces, making it difficult to move. Sharlene Dixon felt beads of sweat roll between her breasts. She was mortified by the thought of addressing this situation at the grocery store. For goodness sake, she thought, everyone would notice. A softly murmured ‘tch,tch’ sound escaped from her throat. She simply would not allow a public display to ruin her reputation as a good wife and mother.

Family groceries had to be purchased no matter the weather. She believed it was her duty to her family. Her husband David was a wonderful family man besides being respected in business. Dixon Construction was number one in this part of the south. Sharlene would never think of letting something as trivial as the sweltering southern heat let alone her own comfort, interfere with keeping David happy.

Ambling slowly through the store, Sharlene looking disheveled and nervous She was trying to focus. To her eye, the vegetables were limp and pale, much as she felt. A wave of dizzy circles passed across her eyes. She shook it off and searched the fruit bins. Reaching down she chose a wilted and sagging apple. How could she buy these to offer her family? Her mind wandered, confused by this dilemma.

The past few weeks held many moments like this one. Cloudy thoughts accompanied by lost time were becoming commonplace. Focusing was impossible for Sharlene. Some nameless, nagging fear about David played near the edges of her mind. Like this company dinner he was attending tonight. Why did she feel something was wrong? The advanced weather reports predicted terrible storms with high winds and torrential rain. She was very nervous about this and made a mental note to talk to David. She would rather die than see him hurt.

Suddenly, the grocery aisle narrowed and she bumped hard, into a carefully layered soft drink display. Echoes of shattering glass soda bottles reached her ears. What happened, Sharlene was confused. But she knew. Deep down, she knew.

Kevin McCurdy was busy stacking avocados for tomorrow's sale. Crashing glass startled him and Kevin spun around to see Mrs Dixon frantically trying to stop the soda display from collapsing. He sprinted to reach a swaying case of soda just in the nick of time. Whew, that was lucky, he thought. He couldn’t count how many spills he had cleaned up during his two years here.

"I am so-o sorry Kevin," Mrs. Dixon looked small and confused. Was she dazed or was it the heat? Humid days sure brought out the strange in people. He smiled at Mrs. Dixon as reassuringly as possible.

"Don't worry about it Mrs D. Besides, it's not like we don't know you around here." Sharlene's eyes widened and her mouth dropped open. Kevin was getting nervous. Oh, Jeez, I don't think this is helping, he thought.

"No, I-I mean, we know you are usually so careful. You know what I mean Mrs. D?" Kevin scratched the side of his head nervously. He watched Mrs. Dixon disappear quickly around the next aisle.




Sharlene concentrated hard to clear her foggy mind and focus on family shopping. Bits and pieces of childhood memories tugged along her thoughts. Her parents were nothing short of wonderful in her eyes. But one particular Christmas came clear to Sharlene now.

The door bell rang Christmas Eve morning. A man delivered flowers for her mother. That’s all she remembered until now. All day long mother cried and Daddy yelled. It wasn’t a very good Christmas for an eight year old little girl. Daddy left for a few hours taking the flowers with him. The silence was deafening to her. Police came to house and for awhile after that, her mother was very sick from nerves. She went to the hospital for long months but Daddy told Sharlene he did everything for his family. Daddy told her, “Never let anyone get in the way of doing a good job for your family.”

This thought brought her to reality. Examining her well organized list, she shopped. Sharlene was smiling ear to ear when fifty minutes later, she exited the store, content with her diligent efforts. The final total before coupons was 122.34. She had saved her family a whopping 45.30. Coupon clipping and circular reading really paid off. It was all for her family. This was her life, her only path. No one was going to interfere with her plans. Sharlene went home happy, the soda mishap forgotten.




David Dixon paced the floor of his temporary office. The trailer he’d leased just last month, for this project, was beautiful. Renovations for John Armstrong’s tile warehouse would run June 1 to September 30th and the trailer was a sound lease investment. His wife Sharlene had carefully picked carpeting to compliment the furniture and decor. She wanted him comfortable and pampered in his work environment. Right now David felt smothered.

He glanced at the cell phone in his hand. Green light still glowed eerily, reflecting recent use. What in the world was he thinking? For the last 14 years he'd been comfortable enough with his life. Sharlene was a good catch for any man. She was gorgeous, kind and generous, and her family was the prosperous “old south” variety. Marrying her was the smartest thing he'd ever done. They worked hard together getting ahead. Their children, David Jr and little Annabelle, were 10 and 7. So far, they were on track with their plan, including the recent purchase; a four bedroom, farm style home on the outskirts of town, complete with a barn and horses. Things were working out well and they were happy.. until now. He was sure his wife suspected infidelity even though there wasn’t any…yet. Dropped into the oversized easy chair, David leaned back, closing his eyes. His life was spiraling out of control and he felt powerless to do anything about it now.




Marianne Rodgers moved into town four months ago. She was single and feared she may be for the rest of her life. She'd met a lot of nice men and even been engaged a few times. Something always gave her the feeling she would regret the decision. She was hoping a new job and new surroundings would change her luck.

As office manager, Marianne greeted everyone who walked through the door. David Dixon took her breath away. His sun streaked blond hair gave his soft blue gaze a sensual appeal. Normally unruffled by a man’s good looks, Marianne was flustered.

“Good morning darlin’. You must be Marianne.” She could only smile and nod. “I’m David Dixon, with Dixon Construction. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Marianne noticed golden tanned color of his skin and the ever so slight musky smell of maybe aftershave? Oh my God, she thought, he’s adorable. She held out her hand in greeting. His grasp was warm and strong, his smile genuine.

“The pleasure is mine David.” Her eyes met his, held a moment, and she quickly looked away. “If there is anything you should need help with feel free to call on me.”

David felt suddenly awkward, unsure what to say next. His face grew warm.
“Thanks very much Marianne.” He shuffled nervously from foot to foot. “I’d better get back then” He waved and hurried out of the room. What the hell was that? He chided himself. She was just a new office manager! He swiped at the sudden band of sweat on his brow and quickened his pace, trying to forget this beautiful woman and whole embarrassing moment.



Most of the morning, Marianne worked hard reorganizing the office. It didn’t work to keep David Dixon out of her mind. I didn’t notice a ring, she thought. Maybe he’s single. As lunchtime approached, she decided to take a walk out to the job site. Maybe they would talk and this time she would converse with the poor man. God she was embarrassed by this mornings encounter.

David saw her coming out of the office door. Her golden hair swept back gently as she walked toward him. Glancing up from her shapely legs David smiled at her.

Marianne’s face reddened. Why was she as embarrassed as a school girl? “I thought I’d come out to see if you were taking a break” she said cheerfully. “I could get soft drinks for your crew.”

“That’s real kind of you Marianne. We sure would appreciate anything you have to offer.” David tried to stay casual and cool.

Marianne glanced around. “How many of you are there?

“We’re six today.”

“Ok then, I’ll go get the drinks.” She turned to walk back. David watched her gracefully sway her hips. M-M-M he liked this. Somewhere from his memories he felt old stirrings.

“Hey,” he called to her, “why don’t I come along to help?” Oh boy, he thought, what am I doing?

“Sure”, she said. Her smile was enchanting. He walked toward her, his heart skipping beats. Whatever was going on here, he decided he was enjoying it way too much.




All day long he thought of her. How might it feel to run his hands across her hips, feel the silky smooth blond hair that graced her head, kiss the full lips that smiled for him? He couldn’t shake the need growing deep inside. It was all he could do to finish for the day and go home. He looked for a reason to seek her out and say goodbye.

“I’ll see you tomorrow,” she said quietly. David couldn’t wait.




6:15 was late for David to return home. Sharlene would be worried but he was ready for her questions. Backing his work truck into the spacious garage he knew this was his own fault. She could always plan around the time he would be home. 5:30 PM sharp. Dinner was always at 6:30 Pm giving him time to unwind and shower. The children were used to this routine as well. Maybe he should have varied things a bit. A man needs his own time.

“Sorry Shar,” he called coming in through the back door. “Mr Armstrong had a lot of suggestions for me and I had a hard time getting away. You know how he is.” David laughed loudly.

Sharlene noticed the strangeness in his voice. She glanced up when he laughed. Was something different? Oh, how foolish, she thought. What would be different and why? She smiled radiantly motioning him to sit. This was her time of the day. Her family sat together around the table patiently waiting for her to serve them a home cooked meal from the menu she prepared faithfully every week.

They all bowed their heads to pray. David’s face was flushed. What was that from, she thought. No, stop. The day was quite warm and the kitchen was warm. Of course, that was it. In fact, why didn’t she think to turn on the air conditioning? Now look at him, poor thing.

David offered the traditional grace and Sharlene began passing the serving bowls. Fried chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy and home grown string beans. Regular family fare for the Dixon’s.

“Do you need more ice water sweetie?” Sharlene asked her husband.

“No I’m fine” he replied. He was overheated but he knew Sharlene wouldn’t stop fussing. It was bad enough he couldn’t stop his thoughts of Marianne, but his wife’s smothering was too much. The less he gave her to fuss over the better.

Sharlene stood abrupty and poured fresh water into David’s glass. “Why did you do that?” His voice was raised and sharp.

She backed away from the table. “I-I just thought you looked flushed David. I’m s-sorry.” Sharlene turned and strode quickly into the kitchen.

Oh great, thought David. Better fix this one quick. Finishing his last bite, David smiled at the children, grabbed his plate and went to the kitchen.

Sharlene was working diligently on her fresh baked bundt cake. He placed his plate in the sink and turned to her.

“I’m sorry Shar. I didn’t mean to snap at you.”

Shalene kept her attention on her work. “It’s ok David. I know you work hard for us and I will always understand. Now, go sit so I can bring the cake out” He didn’t have the heart to tell her he wasn’t hungry.




After dinner, the kids ran off to the barn, Sharlene began to clean-up and David finally had time to himself. Downstairs in his office, he closed the big oak panel door quietly and sat comfortably in his leather desk chair. Outside, the children were saddling their horses. They loved riding and spent most of their spare time up in the grassy hills behind the barn. David was proud of this property. He was a hard worker and felt he and his family deserved the place.

His thoughts drifted to Marianne. Why was he obsessing over this woman? Was he really willing to risk all of this? It was silly to daydream, he chided himself. “ I will not carry this any further” he spoke out loud. Rising from his chair, David decided to join his children. Life felt easy again.




The next few weeks proved the most difficult David Dixon ever experienced. His infatuation with Marianne grew stronger while his wife grew more and more suspicious. He was coming home late every day. Marianne worked until 5:30 and there was always something they found to talk about. Today for instance, they spoke about a new club just opening in the next town, a country line dance club. David would love to go and take her. Could he figure out a way to do this?

“I just love to dance. How about you David?” Marianne’s voice was a melody to him.

“Of course I do,” he said. “Maybe we could go next weekend.” David could have died at his words.

“Could we?” she asked. Those blue eyes, so big and beautiful, how could he refuse?

“Yes, we will!” He didn’t know how just yet but they would.




Sharlene took the gloves from her hands and looked over her garden. Why were the peonies in this bed?, she thought. She must have made a mistake. She’d been doing an awful lot of that lately. Oh well, I may as well leave them, she thought, resigning herself to the result of her foolish wandering mind.

It was her own fault. She was so worried about David. What could be bothering him? He usually shared things with her but not this time. In the recesses of her mind she wondered if he was having an affair but she couldn’t possibly take this seriously. After all, she was his only love. They’d met in high school and vowed to live together before God, forever. David was hers and she his. That was that. She would do anything to keep it that way. Anything. Her daddy told her that, years ago. That’s when he gave her the secret present. “This is just for you Sharlene,” He’d said. Keeping what belongs to you can sometimes be dangerous. I want my girl to be prepared.” She had not thought of that conversation in years nor had she thought of the gift.

Sharlene walked upstairs to clean up and stood in front of her personal dresser for a long moment. Her mind moved through the past days with David and focused on one thought. She would do anything for this family. She walked to the dresser and opened the top right drawer. Looking at the contents she was satisfied, it was there. Smiling, she closed the drawer and went downstairs to start dinner.




David worked out a story for Sharlene. There was to be a dinner for the construction teams working for Armstrong and Sons. It would be next Saturday night. But, how could he not take Sharlene? He’d say it was only for company members not family. She might buy this. He had to hope she would. His desire for Marianne was becoming an obsession he knew he had to possess. He would do anything at this point to have his way.

The night he told Sharlene was balmy. She was gathering dishes from the dinner table. He waited in the kitchen while the children ran off to the barn.

“Sharlene,” he started, “I have a dinner on Saturday night to go to.” His voice was steady.

Sharlene turned to him excited and smiling.” Oh, David, it’s been so long since we went anywhere. What’s the occasion?”

His heart beat quickly. Fiddling with the door latch, David could not look at his wife. Continuing he examined the latch mechanism. “This is a company only dinner Shar, I’m sorry”. He could feel her eyes on him. Pulling the piece out of the doorjamb he turned to face her. “You know, this bolt needs tightened. I’m going to run to my shop and fix this.” David all but ran from the room. Well, he thought relieved, everything was in motion. He had handled it right. Saturday night would be just fine. He proceeded to his office, the kitchen latch forgotten, Sharlene left behind.




Sharlene stood at the sink, hands clutching the edge tightly. He had simply walked away. What could she think? He had never lied to her and why did she think he would now? But the shaking in her body would not stop. Her senses were screaming as she tried to calm herself. No, she told herself, Saturday night was going to be just fine.




Saturday morning came on with a blast of humidity to knock you over. David stayed in the office most of the day doing paper work. He heard Sharlene call out she was going to the grocery store. Like clock work, he smiled. Same time every week. He called a goodbye and felt easier for the moment. This was a good time to call Marianne. He wanted to confirm their plans for tonight anyway. He would take her to the club and home afterwards. If he was seeing things right, she would ask him in and the real evening would begin. He thought about this all day. It was best for him to stay out of sight until it was time to leave.




Sharlene walked quietly into the room as he got ready. “You look so handsome.” She smiled at David.

“Thanks” he said briefly. He felt awkward with her there. She seemed different somehow.

“I hope you’ll be careful David.” she said softly.

His heart beat quickened, what is she talking about?

Sharlene’s furrowed brow showed her concern. “The weather predicted looks bad. Terrible thunderstorms are coming this way. You know how I worry for your safety.”

David’s relief was tremendous. He smiled. She was only worried about the weather. “Don’t you give it another thought honey. I promise I’ll be very careful.” He leaned over kissing her forehead. “I’m not sure what time I’ll be home but, if the roads are bad I may be late.” This storm could be just the right thing for tonight, he thought.

Sharlene touched her hand to her forehead. She watched him carefully deciding things were fine. She would wait for him to come home and everything would be normal, just as before. Before what? she thought. Stop it Sharlene, her foolish imagination made her smile. She watched his reflection as he adjusted his tie. He was such a handsome man and a good family man too.




David and Marianne danced until midnight. The evening was magical. He held her tightly, feeling her body mold to his.. “Let’s go,” she whispered to him.

They ran to the car like children, anticipating their reward. In the distance, heat lightening flashed across the sky followed by low rumbling thunder. David paused briefly before getting into the car. He looked to the darkening sky. This must be the storm Shar had warned him about? No matter, he thought. He was thrilled to be with Marianne anticipating the coming hours with her.

Driving to Marianne’s, the couple kissed and caressed. Now in her driveway, they noticed the sky was much darker and thunder roared closer and closer. The memory of Shar’s concern nagged at David. He drew Marianne toward him, warding off his thoughts. He didn’t want to feel the tug of his conscience.

Marianne wanted this man badly. She felt safe with David. Could they start a family together? She was happy she didn’t see a wedding ring. His kiss was melting her. She grabbed his hand and they ran into the house just as a flash of lightening illuminated the entry. Was that fear on David’s face? Marianne wondered.

The blast of thunder that followed was ear piercing. David pulled Marianne to closer. “Where are we going?”, he whispered in her ear. She smiled slyly and led him upstairs to her bed.




Hours passed before they heard the skies open up. They had created their own world filled with passionate thunder. Candles illuminated the entire room until suddenly; the curtains blew wildly, flashing light circling them. Monstrous claps of thunderous noise engulfed them. David had not enjoyed an evening so much but he felt the need to leave. He knew he must go to Sharlene. This storm was his signal to go home.

Marianne pleaded with him to stay. He wavered; the warmth of her embrace fresh in his memory, but his conscious made him leave.

Running into the battering wind and driving rain, David was soaked by the time he reached his car. Rivulets of water ran onto his face, blurring his vision. Wet sleeve brushed against wet face, trying to clear his sight. Ever so slowly, he backed out of the driveway toward his home, his destiny, his wife …Sharlene.




Fear crept in about two hours ago and never lightened it’s grip on Sharlene’s mind. Pacing the floor, Sharlene’s forehead creased in worried furrows. What could he be thinking? It’s 3:00 AM! Was he in an accident? Every time she thought of it her breathing came shallow and fast. She couldn’t bother the police again. At 1:30 and at 2:30 AM there had been no news regarding her beloved husband. Every light was on downstairs as she walked from room to room. Then, just when she thought she would go crazy, headlights started up the long road leading to their home.

She ran to open the front door. Cold rain pelted her face soaking her night gown. She ran to him as he pulled up. David opened the car door. She rushed into his arms, crying her relief, paying no attention to her rain soaked gown. Breathing deeply she paused. What was this scent on his shirt? They ran to the house and she went for towels. “What happened” she said slowly. He did not look at her and she just knew. Everything came together clearly. Her mind went numb.

“I see”, she said softly. Turning, she walked slowly toward the stairs. One at a time her steps took her up to her room, their room. Walls of smiling faces and happy memories taunted her. Laughter echoed in her ears. Her life mission a joke, she was humiliated and scorned. How would she ever go on? What would people say about her?

The mind snapped. Sharlene’s steps even and measured, crossed the room to her dresser. Opening the drawer slowly, she peered inside and reached for her gift. Daddy was right after all, she thought. He told her she might need this someday. Betrayal was unforgivable.

David felt frozen in place. Should he go to her or leave? He stood there for an eternity when finally, he heard her steps descending the stairs. His eyes widened when she walked into the room Shock preceded the sound of the trigger cocking in her hand. He moved back instinctively before feeling the bite of the bullet in his chest. Oh my God, he thought.

As he sank to the floor, feeling the rubber in his legs, she called out his name in agony. Screaming filled his ears and faded as he drifted away.