Chapter 24: Rainforest Marathon

 I would like to thank Julie for helping me with the development of Lewis and Jenny P.

Rainforest Marathon

That night after the party was over Bart, Pete, Mallory, and Stacey all came back to Logan and Mary Anne's house. They all sat around on the patio talking about Pete's campaign and the Rainforest Marathon the next morning.

Lewis asked Pete a lot of questions about his campaign. "Not only do I have a booth for the Rainforest Marathon tomorrow but I am also running in it. And then tomorrow night is the Rotary Club party. I've been working with them on getting some people to visit here more often from different cultures. Dawn and I have been making our rounds to different places in Stoneybrook and one thing I've noticed is although the town is progressing the people haven't been exposed to culture outside of Stoneybrook that much. And there seems to be an unwelcomeness to outsiders. I hope that we can improve. I hope Stoneybrook welcomes you into their social circles and you feel at home here, Lewis."

"Thanks, Pete. I feel pretty welcome so far. And I've got Logan and Mary Anne to show me around and introduce me to people."

"Some may tease you at first about your accent but they'll get used to you."

"Logan and Mary Anne have invited me to the Rotary Club party. I'm sure I will meet some people there."

"For sure. And good people."

"Tell me more about the marathon."

"Well, there will be booths set up all up and down Main Street and throughout the route. Local businesses signed up to promote their products and show off their eco-friendly things. There will also be food vendors and arts and crafts. Not much happens in Stoneybrook so any excuse to the party we pretty much go all out."

"That sounds like a lot of fun."

"It will be. And some healthy competition between some of our guests here tonight." 

Everyone smiled.

The next morning Dawn woke up well-rested and psyched for the marathon. She put on her marathon t-shirt that had cute rainforest animals and plants on it with "Save the Rainforest" written on the front. She put on her island print shorts and a bright teal tutu and topped it off with blue butterfly earrings and running sneakers. 

She ate a granola and yogurt breakfast and washed it down with some orange juice out on her balcony. She was surprised to see Logan, Mary Anne, and Mona we're already up and loading up the car with ice chests of water. Logan had done labels for the water printed up with his law firm advertised on them to pass out to runners during the race.

Mona was dressed head to toe in an island print bandana on her head. Mary Anne was a little more subtle in her Rainforest t-shirt and plain black bike shorts but had neon green socks and neon green leaf earrings.

It was then that Dawn heard a noise at the balcony next to hers and saw Lewis come out. He already had a beer in his hand.

"Need any help down there Logan?"

"Yeah, we still have the banner to load up and the sound system."

Lewis rushed down to help them and Dawn got a text from Bart. "Are you ready yet?"

"Let's Do This!" She texted back. 

"I'll be there in 5 min."

When they got to Main Street they couldn't believe the transformation. People had booths all along the sidewalk. Others had lined up lawn chairs and coolers to sit and watch the race. There was music blasting from speakers. Erica Blumberg had set up with the tv station right by the starting line and Dawn could see Stacey talking to her in a matter top and sun hat. Kristy and Abby, we're at Charlie's Good Sport booth giving out koozies and demonstrating their eco-friendly straws. Shannon and Robert, we're at the Rotary Club booth. Dawn scanned the sea of booths until she found Jamie's. While making her way through the crowd she stopped and her jaw dropped. There, right next to Jaime's booth was Cokie Mason and some other girls with beehive hairdos, Rainforest Marathon t-shirts, and short cut-off jean shorts. Dawn looked up and saw it was the booth for Gloriana's House of Hair. Dawn kept walking but was laughing to herself and made a mental note to make sure she beat Cokie in the race.

"Hey! You made it!" Said Jamie. 

"Yep! I'm also ready to kick some ass!" Said, Dawn.

They chatted for a few minutes then she went back to Logan and Mary Anne to get ready to line up and get their numbers for the marathon. As they stood in line she pointed Cokie out to Mary Anne and Mona. As they got closer to the check-in booth Dawn saw that Jenny's campaign booth was right next to it. It was red, white, and blue and said "The Stars and Stripes of Stoneybrook" above it with a Hollywood headshot of Jenny in one of the stars. Jenny was signing autographs and taking pictures with people lined up at her booth. On the other side was Pete's booth. He said, "Beat the Heat, Vote for Sneaky Pete". He was giving out cooling sweatband bandanas made out of recycled plastic bottles. There were a lot more people at Pete's booth than Jenny's. Mary Anne and Dawn stopped at Pete's booth after getting their numbers.

" Good luck! Looks like you are already beating the competition."

They got some bandanas for themselves and Logan and Bart. Mary Anne and Mona left Dawn while she went over to the bandstand where Bart was talking to Ben. "Here I picked this up for you. It will keep you cool while we are running."

"Thanks. Are you ready to do this?"

"Are you kidding? We have been training forever. Plus, now I've got some healthy competition. I need to at least beat Cokie Mason and Jenny or the girls will never let me live it down."

"Those two? Oh please. Cokie will drop out as soon as her beehive deflates and Jenny will dramatically break a nail."

Dawn laughed. "I hope you're right."

"A kiss for luck?" Bart asked. Dawn kissed him and Ben came by.

"Hey hey, you two. I hate to break this up but I'm about to announce runners to get to the starting line. You don't want those prissy to win. Go! Go! I have money on you two!"

They said goodbye to Ben and started making their way through the crowd. Ben got up on the stage and the band started to play "Don't Stop Belivin'". At the end of the song, he told everyone registered to line up at the starting line. After a brief reading of the official rules, Ben shot off a gun in the air and everyone started moving.

Dawn's strategy was to try to keep up generally in the middle until the last mile of the race. She figured by keeping a steady pace of power walking in the beginning and waiting for the others to tire out or drop out before using up all her energy to cross the finish line. Besides, she didn't want to lose the experience of being a part of the movement. It was incredible. And just seeing the community and Stoneybrook in that way was something she wanted to remember forever. She knew Mona and Mary Anne were just there for the experience, too, and we're not as into winning. 

They saw Richard and Sharon in the crowd on the sidelines and walked over to them for a picture and then continued walking.

" You know Dawn you really should come with us to see them next week. You can't avoid your mom forever." Mary Anne said.

"I know. I just want to figure out what is going on. If Morbidda is my relative why would she keep it from me?"

" I don't know. But you don't even know if it is true or not."

"Yeah, you're right. I will come along with you next week."

" Good." Mary Anne smiled and hugged her sister.

They walked a while in silence just taking in the atmosphere. They were reaching the corner of Rosedale by the hospital and they could hear the cheers from the crowd. People were waving signs for people, for the Rainforest, and Pete and Jenny. Radios we're blasting WSTO where you could hear The Junk Bucket playing cover songs. 

Dawn turned to Bart. "Is this not amazing?" She asked.

"It's incredible," Bart said. 

They linked arms and at that moment they heard someone calling Dawn's name in the crowd. It was Rick Chow. He had his fancy camera and yelled "Smile for the paper!"

Bart, Mona, Dawn, and Mary Anne posed for Rick and he snapped a picture. A few feet away they saw Claudia in the crowd who gave them all water. "We are all stationed throughout the marathons route to give you guys water. As soon as you guys leave my area another one of us will be stationed not too far away. As soon as you pass me, I'm heading to the finish line. We will all meet you there! Good luck!"

They continued down the street. "You guys think of everything don't you?" Asked Bart.

"What do you mean?"

"You and your friends. I've never seen a group of people so prepared all the time."

"Well, when you've grown up around Kristy..."

"Enough said."

They rounded the corner to Elm Street and the crowds cheered again. Dawn tried to keep Cokie and Jenny in her view. It was easy to spot Cokie with that beehive hairdo but Jenny and her group were harder to keep tabs on. Sometimes they were in front, sometimes behind her. Pete was always a little bit ahead of them despite stopping to take photos with the crowd every so often. And Jamie was running around with a bag giving out water and granola bars to people. Every so often he would stop to walk with Dawn and Bart like this Amazon social butterfly. 

Dawn looked out into the crowd. She saw Rick Chow again taking more pictures. Dawn wondered how he got there so fast. He must be driving to different locations along the route, Dawn thought. He was taking a picture of Karen and Alan. As soon as Karen saw them she ran up to see if they needed any water. "Dad and Liz are at home. They said they'd come out and give you water and snacks once you get to their street. You are doing great!"

They went back to walking. Dawn looked around and saw Cokie and her big headed croons behind them. Pete was up ahead taking photos with a baby. Dawn couldn't see Jenny anywhere in site.

"What's the matter?" Asked Mary Anne.

"I don't see Jenny anywhere. I can't find her!"

"Oh I bet she is lagging behind or dropped out."

"I hope you're right. I want to beat Cokie but losing out to Jenny would be even worse."

Dawn decided to get her phone out and send a text out to the group in group text. Maybe someone saw her up ahead or lagginging behind. A few minutes later, one by one, they all texted back that they did not see her anywhere. Where could she have gone to? Dawn hoped she had given up and went on home. 

Dawn tried to forget about it and enjoy the rest of the marathon. They were getting close to Watson's now and she could get a piece of fruit and some water before the second half of the route. 

"Don't worry about it Dawn. Everyone knows Jenny is a flake anyways." Said Bart.

They soon saw the familiar campaign signs coming up to Watson's mansion. Watson had a box of raisins ready for Dawn. She told him about losing Jenny on the route. He said he hadn't seen her ahead of them. Pete came up to give Watson a high five and Dawn told him about how she lost where Jenny was. "It's ok. We are all just here to have a good time."

They continued on down the street. Dawn tried to forget about Jenny and have a good time. She must have not had a good poker face though because Pete and Bart started dancing a jig around her as they walked. Dawn giggled. Then she linked arms with Mary Anne and Mona and they skipped down the street singing "We Are Off To See The Wizard". 

They were finally reaching the home stretch. Dawn took one more look around. She saw Cokie was still behind her. She didn't see Jenny or her friends at all. She took one last swig of water from the bottle.

" Ready to run?" She asked Bart.

"On the count of 3. 1, 2,3!"

And off they ran. They passed Pete and a few others that were still just pretty much power walking. Cokie saw Dawn take off and also started running. They passed the main crowd of runners and we're now amongst the serious runners. She still saw no sign of Jenny. She saw Mallory on the sidelines by the stakes and Mallory held up a neon poster that said "Go Dawn!" Dawn waved at her as she crowded on past. Dawn and Bart were pretty much head to head running together. When Dawn turned back to face the front she saw Jenny and her campaign team magically directly ahead of her. They were running fast and they did not seem as sweaty or tired as everyone else. Before they knew it they could see the finish line in sight and could hear all the cheers. Bart and Dawn started pounding the pavement as hard as they possibly could. No matter how fast they ran, they just couldn't keep up with Jenny. They were always several feet behind them. And before they knew it, Jenny crossed the finish line and had won the race. Dawn and Bart came in 5th and 6th place. 

After everyone ran up to congratulate them Dawn collapsed under Jamie's booth. Jenny got a huge reception in the winner's circle. She made a speech which was basically just an advertisement for her campaign. The entire thing was making Dawn mad. She knew they had to have cheated somehow. But how? 

Dawn and Bart decided to get some food from the vendors and have a little picnic lunch. Dawn and can't sat at a picnic table behind Jamie's booth. Bart had a giant fried turkey leg and Dawn had a Ceaser salad. Claudia came over to them. "You guys are amazing! I'm so proud of you!" 

"Claudia when did you get back to the finish line today?" Asked Dawn.

"About 15 min after I left you from giving out water, why?"

"I'm convinced Jenny cheated to win the race just to promote her campaign for mayor. Did you see her before she crossed the finish line?"

" No. I was talking to Logan when the crowd started cheering. That's when I saw Jenny and her friends crossing the finish line."

"Did you see their hair was perfectly in place and they had perfect make up on? They aren't as sweaty as everyone else too."

"You know, you're right now that you mention it. But how?"

"I dont know. I was looking for her because I was keeping tabs on her and Cokie. I didn't see them after we saw Karen and Alan and before Watson's."

"I didn't see them on my way back either."

"We need to get everyone together and get their stories. That's it I'm calling an emergency meeting."

"When? We have the Rotary Club party tonight."

"After the party. I need to get then while their memories are still fresh. I'm sending a text out. We need to gather as many people as we know we're here today."

"Good idea. Tell Stacey to bring Erica Blumberg. The tv station was here filming. And I will get Rick Chow. He was taking photos all throughout the marathon today."

Dawn was going to get to the bottom of this if it was the last thing she was ever going to do.

Chapter 23: Welcome Lewis

 I would like to thank Julie Demers for helping me with the development of Lewis.

Welcome Lewis

Lewis was due to arrive that evening around dinner time. Mary Anne knew that he would be tired and hungry after a long drive. She had arranged for everyone to come over at about 7:30 to get the party started. Shannon had come over to help Dawn with hang up the banner and balloons. They set out some food on the bar by the pool. They were just snacks since they were all going to Good Sport that night to eat and dance the night away.

As soon as the doorbell rang, Logan was at it in a flash. "Lewis, you made it! Come on in! Have a beer! Come out by the pool and unwind!"

Dawn and Shannon were out by the pool area and Mona was in the kitchen set a picture of ice tea on a tray. They stopped what they were doing to line up by the banner and hug Lewis when he came out the door. Lewis was dressed casually in some basketball shorts and plain red tank top and sneakers. He was very rugged and chiseled with defined muscles and a strong jawline.

"Mary Anne, you look gorgeous! I'm telling you if Logan hadn't snatched you up..." He gave her a big hug. Then he turned to Dawn. "My mystery girl! How could I forget you? I'm glad you are staying with Logan and Mary Anne this summer." Then he turned to Mona."Hey good lookin', what's cookin'?" He hugged her too.

"The girls got some snacks together. All your favorites: pretzels, chips, dips, ...and I picked you up something..." There was a basket of all kinds of various flavors.

"My favorite! You remembered! That's funny because I kinda picked something up on my way out of Kentucky for you..." Lewis reached into his pocket and pulled out some homemade beef jerky. "It's from Papy's. Remember when we used to eat these all summer?'

" Oh my God, this is awesome!" They high-fived each other and went and sat on the lawn chairs. 

"You can go swimming if you want to. Cool off before the others arrive save room for Good Sports though, they have the best cheddar peppers in town."

"Thanks, Logan! I think I will and then go change for the party."

"You can choose any room you want, take your pick. And Good Sports is casual you don't have to dress up."

Dawn couldn't help but notice how brawny Lewis had become. I bet he smells like beef jerky though, she thought. She excused herself and went upstairs to get ready. She decided on a yellow tank top and jeans. She curled her hair at the bottom and put on some minimal makeup. She could hear the others gathering downstairs. They had already turned the sound system on with country music blaring out. She heard a screech and went out to the balcony to see Stacey and Abby were both decked out head to toe in Good Sports merch just different colors. They had on Good Sports striped baseball shirts and shorts. Dawn had to admit they looked cute. She ran down to join them. Mallory and Claudia showed up. Mallory was wearing a baseball shirt with an iron-on Krushers decal Claud had made up for it and jeans. Claudia was all themed out too in a football jersey and ripped jeans. One by one everyone arrived and they caravanned over to Good Sports.

Logan had reserved them a huge table and the waiter came quickly to take their orders. Logan and Mary Anne gave the kids some money to run off and play video games while the adults made their way to the dance floor.

A fast song came on and Lewis and Mallory went out on the dance floor. Dawn and Pete soon followed Bart and Claudia right behind them. Jessi had found a good-looking bartender and they were really good together! Sooner or later they had all changed partners and danced with each other. The DJ came on the mike and said," Attention! Good Sports fans! We have Pete Black in the house tonight! Not only is he on the campaign trail, but he can live it up! Be sure to register and rock your vote for Pete Black right here in September!" They put a spotlight on Pete and he waved two peace signs to the crowd. 

"Man, he must be working overtime," Lewis said to Dawn. 

"Kristy's brother owns this place, and her stepdad funding his campaign." Dawn explained.

"Pretty cool. What party is he on?"

"Independent. I've been helping him a lot recently. We all have. I think he has a great chance at winning."

"Independent, huh? That's pretty interesting. I'd like to know where he stands on certain issues."

Dawn was surprised at how interested Lewis was in Pete's campaign. Impressed. Maybe Lewis being here won't be so bad. And Dawn couldn't help but notice Mal and Lewis were pretty much sticking to each other most of the night.

A guy with a camera came up to get a picture of the group at their table. "Rick Chow?' Dawn asked. 

" Yeah. I freelance for the paper. Claudia tipped me off that Pete was going to be here tonight."

"Claudia?" Asked Dawn.

"Yeah, I ran into her a few weeks ago. I'm glad I did. I'm glad to see you and everybody. Who is that guy over there?"

"Oh, that's Lewis. Logan's cousin from Kentucky."

"Oh yeah, I remember him."

Rick went off to go talk to Lewis and Logan. Dawn turned around and found Bart standing there. "I don't think having Lewis here will be as bad as I thought, as long as he doesn't make me eat barbequed chicken carcass we will be okay."

Bart laughed.

Chapter 22: The Sleepover

 First off I want to thank Julie Demers for helping me with the Lewis plot and new developments with the storyline of Stacey. 

Secondly, I want to thank you all for being patient with me about getting the chapters out. I think I am back on track now and the chapters will be coming out more regularly like they used to.

The Sleepover

Stacey knew she was going to have to go to the Rotary party. There was no way around it, and she knew that like it or not, she and Sam were reaching a turning point. She decided to go shop for a dress at Bellaire's and talk to her mom.

Stacey made her way through the racks of the formal section. She wanted something blue to bring out her blonde hair. And maybe short or off the shoulder. Just because this thing with Sam was bothering her, she wouldn't let it affect her looking sensational. Flipping through she finally found it. An electric blue slinky dress with plunging sweetheart neckline and silver sparkly straps crossing in the back. It would also go perfect with her blue silver sapphire drop earrings Sam gave her for her birthday. 

She went to the counter and let the clerk check her out. Then she asked him if he could ring her mom in her office. Stacey was looking at silver purses while she waited when her mom came out.

"Stacey! So happy to see you!"

"Hi, mom! I was just shopping for the Rotary party. I was wondering if we could talk."

"Sure, sweetie. Let me tell my assistant and we can get a bite to eat."

Her mom clocked out and they walked a few blocks to the Rosebud. 

"Mom, for the first time in my life I am thinking about settling down. I want a family. I'm just not sure if that's what Sam wants. I'm not sure how to bring it up with him. And he seems so distant lately. I don't know how he feels about me."

"Oh, Stacey he is just like your father, a workaholic. And, truthfully, you kind of wear yourself thin, too. It may do you some good to slow down a little. Or take some time off. Show Sam that you are worthy of being a wife and mom. Perhaps he is having the same feelings you are, but you just aren't what he thinks of when he thinks of the motherly type."

At first, Stacey thought her mom was being very old-fashioned and Boomerish about the whole thing. But Sam could be thinking that way. What did she have to lose? 

She decided to start right away and the best person she knew to ask was Mary Anne. She was feeling better about the Rotary party already.

Dawn decided to face her situation with Mary Anne by approaching it head-on. She wasn't going to confront Mary Anne, but if these little things with her hinting at her and Lewis popped up she would just nip them in the bud, and eventually, Mary Anne would give up. 

While meditating that morning she had an epiphany. She hadn't spent that much time with the girls since she had arrived either. She decided to try to gather as many girls together as she could and have a good old-fashioned sleepover that night. They could work on the Rotary Club decorations and head over the next day and put them up. 

She quickly arranged everything with Mona and her and Mary Anne sent out text messages. They shopped with Shannon for the crafts to make centerpieces and Claudia was bringing over more supplies when she left Crookshanks. 

Dawn quickly set up the pool house for their gathering. She told everyone to just show up whenever they could and they would go from there.

The first person to arrive was surprisingly  Stacey followed by Mallory. Stacey had brought some margarita mix and Mallory brought several books on different cultures to make sure they were being authentic. Next was Jessi who had brought dome popular music from different countries and she was going to teach them some traditional dances. The very last to arrive was Abby who brought a funny book about etiquette in different countries that had belonged to Anna. 

They all got started. Claudia was working on banners to hang off each table with bunting in the colors of each flag to match. Mal and Jessi were busy teaching everyone a few phrases in each language to say to the guests while Abby interrupted them every once in a while with a funny etiquette fact. Stacey and Mary Anne kind of bounced back and forth decorating glass bowls with various trinkets and flowers. When they were done they decided to take a break and eat some food.

"What are we doing Friday night when Lewis comes into town?" Mallory asked.

"Claudia suggested we all meet here to greet him. We can have cake and ice cream and then all go down to Good Sport where we can all dance and watch the game and eat all at once."

"Glad I asked. Now I can figure out something to wear." Said Mallory. She hadn't told anyone, not even Jessi, about her feelings about Lewis. She thought about telling Jessi later that night. 

"I'll help you, Mal. I went there with Karen so I know what it's like there."

"Thanks" Mallory figured she needed all the help she could get. She knew Good Sport was more of a family-type restaurant with a dance floor that served alcohol, but she was more of a coffee house kind of girl.

It was getting later and the girls started to wind down a little bit. They began lounging around on the couch, floor, and bar stools with their wine and margaritas.

"What is Lewis like now?" Claudia asked.

"Well, he likes country music. He is good at line dancing too. We should probably pick out some country music for his welcome party. Nothing too sad though. He will want to be celebrating."

Oh boy, thought Dawn. She liked SOME country music and could tolerate it most of the time, but it was her least favorite. She DID like country line dancing though so she was glad she already knew something she could do to help Lewis feel welcome. 

"I only know a few country line dances. Jessi, could you show me a few?"

"Sure! The tush push and electric slide are my favorites."

All the girls practiced their dance moves until they had at least one line dance down to dance with Lewis.

"What else do we need to know about him," Mallory asked.

"Well, he likes southern food. Fried chicken and mashed potatoes with gravy are his favorite. He also eats grits for breakfast."

Dawn knew she wouldn't be binding over food with Lewis and it was the thing she was dreading the most. But as long as she didn't have to eat his retro fattening and meat-loving dishes she could deal with it. 

"He is really into sports like Logan and also loves Nascar races. He likes cars and trucks in general."

Another thing Dawn wasn't into. Cars already make pollution. Why have unnecessary car races pollute it even more? Dawn sank in her chair. She was going to just have to try hard to find something herb and Lewis could talk about. 

"He also likes to work out every morning. He is used to getting up early and going to the gym."

Well, that didn't sound all that bad to Dawn. Although she was pretty sure he wasn't taking yoga classes. 

"Does he still like horses? " Mallory asked.

"Yes. He never owned one but he used to ride them at his friend's ranch in Kentucky."

Mal beamed. "Maybe we should take him out to the trails."

Everyone thought that was a good plan. Stacey was the least experienced in riding but was willing to go along and try.

They were all pretty satisfied with their plans and began gossiping about other things too. Pete's campaign was a big topic along with the Rainforest Marathon coming up. Dawn kind of felt bad that Lewis didn't arrive in time to train for the marathon, but she knew he could enjoy the festivities that went along with it. They all began to drift off to sleep. 

Chapter 21: Preparations

I would like to thank Julie Demers for helping me with the plots of this manuscript. I apologize this chapter is out so late, but a few days ago there was a fire at the house next door to mine, and there were a lot of things happening over there leading up to that fire. Thankfully our house and my family are safe and no one was harmed during the house fire. 

Preparations

It was the week before the 4th of July. Mary Anne, Dawn, and Mona we're getting things ready for all the festivities. First Lewis was due to arrive on Friday night. On Saturday the Rotary Club party was welcoming the new exchanges coming into town, and Sunday, the 4th of July, was the Rainforest marathon. Everyone had decided to put their thoughts aside from the uranium case and concentrate on having some fun.

Dawn didn't tell anyone but she had decided to put things aside early and give herself the entire week to clear her head. She didn't want to deal with her mom possibly not telling her something about Morbidda Destiny being a Porter on top of this thing with Mary Anne. She could tell that Mary Anne still had in the back of her mind that she needed to settle down and was all nostalgic about her and Lewis because they had gone on a few dates off and on through the years. As if it wasn't already awkward enough with Bart, Pete, and now Jamie at least it would keep her busy though and hopefully Mary Anne will finally give up on taming her down.

Dawn had got some books at Crookshanks on clearing the mind. She spent Sunday night planning out her meditation to be a sound warrior when the time came.    That night she decided to walk down to the cliff by the lighthouse where she could see Long Island Sound. She always felt like she could meditate better with the sounds of the waves in her ears. Besides, the sun was still out and she could watch the sunset. 

With her yoga mat in tow, she climbed up to the top of the incline and found a big flat rock to place her yoga mat on. She gently closed her eyes and concentrated on her breathing. Just as she was about to complete the movement she heard a car door slam behind her. She turned to see Cary Retlin going into the lighthouse. She wondered what he was up to, talking to Alan after that fight they had at the bowling alley.

She knew she needed to sit tight for the time being as she was out in the open with nothing to hide behind. She saw Cary and Alan loading up some heavy equipment and heavy-duty digging tools into a truck. Then they went back to the porch and we're sitting on some lawn chairs talking. She knew she needed to move closer to find out what they were saying. She decided to make a run for some shrubs on the side of the lighthouse. She knew she could get close enough without them detecting that she was there.

"After this weekend there should be enough samples to test. She said it will take two to three weeks to get the results back. And if it's a go, we will be rich my friend."

"Not only that, but I could get my lighthouse back. Maybe then Karen would take me more seriously."

"And I can finally get my business going."

"See you Monday then. She said to go in the back gate. This is the final dig, so when we are done we need to make sure to clean it up well. All that tall about the chemistry sets over at Dawn's is making me uneasy."

"Oh come on! They'll never trace it back to what we're doing. Everyone has forgotten that knew and if they knew they don't care enough about it. Let Dawn and them go on their uranium chase. It's kind of funny. You're paranoid Alan. Just be cool."

What?! Thought Dawn. Of course, just when I don't need to be chasing a lead. But she would mention it to Mary Anne and the others and by Monday they would be ready. 

The next morning Mary Anne got up early and snuck out to the grocery store with Mona and Shannon. She knew it was going to be interesting having meat-loving Lewis and Dawn in the same house. She knew sometimes differences could be good. Look at her dad and Sharon. Dawn was still out running with Bart and Pete so she took the opportunity to confide in Shannon. 

"Let's go shopping today. We could get some outfits for this weekend and I want highlights put in my hair."

"Yes let's. We could have lunch too. Make a day of it. We won't have time later when everyone arrives and then we will have that part done already."

They jumped into Mary Anne's car and drove down to the mall.

"Kristy said she would be back Saturday night. Abby will be working the store Sunday for a half-day, but after that, they will join us."

"Good. We will all be back again then." Just then Mary Anne got a text from Mallory.

"Need any help for Lewis's welcome party this weekend?"

"Sure. Why don't you come to meet Shannon and me for lunch? We are going to the Lunch Box."

"Ok I will be there in 15 minutes"

"Mal said she would meet us in 15 minutes. She is pretty excited about Lewis. He came with Logan and me to visit her at Riverbend one weekend in high school when she performed in a play. They've been friends ever since then."

"Ooo, what kind of friends?"

"Well, back then we thought that he and Mal were going to be a thing. He had been quite taken with her after seeing her in high school and she grew out of her awkwardness. But once he saw this other girl in the school play, that was all over. He kept in touch with that girl and wound up marrying her. Now he is getting divorced and moving here to be closer to Logan. He needs a firm support system and a new start."

"Well, we'll see what happens."

Mallory could not believe that Lewis was coming to Stoneybrook. She couldn't help that she was flirting with the possibility that she might be interested in him. She knew it had been a while, and she knew she wouldn't know for sure until she saw him again. They had kept in touch a little bit through Facebook throughout the years. Of course, it would be a little complicated because she lived in Maine, and the headmistress at Riverbend and some of the other teachers would be the pretty judge about having gentleman callers on campus after certain hours of the night, but she would see about that when she got there.

20 Stoneybrook: The Midnight Society

 I would like to thank Julie Demers for helping me with this chapter. She did a lot of work helping me work out Karen's story for the Midnight Society. We couldn't wait for you all to get to this chapter and we are finally here! Pizza toast!

The Midnight Society

Dawn could not wait until that night. They were finally going to be holding the first meeting of the Midnight Society. She and Bart had put all the goody bags together. Mary Anne and Mona had made up all kinds of food for the kids. Claudia and Karen, we're going to be on hand to help out. Stacey was coming to be the first guest storyteller. It was going to be magical! 

They packed up the cars with food, bags, t-shirts, lawn chairs, cooking equipment, and other supplies they were going to be using that night. About 30 kids had signed up but they knew. some would not show up for every meeting. They all met Bart at the park to set up. Bart started a fire in the fire pit. Logan started up the grill to make hamburgers and hot dogs. Dawn had also set up a folding card table with fruits, veggies, and dips. Next came Karen and Claudia. Claudia had brought her new fancy camera to capture photos and film the event. Karen was dressed up in her witch costume and was scheduled to tell a story that night. Ben showed up with his guitar. 

Once they set up the kids started trickling in. Karen started handing out goody bags. She instructed the kids to put on their t-shirts and capes included in the bags. Bart came up and started the first meeting.

"Hello everyone! We would like to welcome you to the first meeting of the Midnight Society. You are now a member of the most elite and awesome group in Stoneybrook. I would like to introduce myself. I'm Bart Taylor and I am the head of the Parks and Recreation Department of Stoneybrook. This is my friend Dawn, she is your host and the founder of the Midnight Society. Everyone give her a round of applause!"

Everyone clapped and Dawn stepped up to address the crowd.

"Thank you, everyone. We would like to thank our sponsors for this program. The Stoneybrook Historical Society, Karen Brewer the owner of Crookshanks, Shannon and Robert Brewster, Logan and Mary Anne Bruno, and Claudia Kishi for the logo for all of our official merchandise. Now to kick things off we would like to invite everyone to grab some food and save room for dessert. While you are eating my friend Ben Hobart is going to play some spooky tunes for us and get us in the mood for some spooky stories."

She turned things over to Ben who played a variety of songs, including "Witchy Woman", " Monster Mash", "I Put A Spell On You", and " Somebody's Watching Me". Then Dawn got. back up to start the main event.

"Everyone give a hand to Ben Hobart, who you may know locally as the lead singer of The Junk Bucket! And now we are going to start with our stories. Tonight's theme is local legends. And our first speaker is my friend Stacey McGill, whom you might know from Stoneybrook news!"

"Thank you, Dawn! Even though I have been living in Stoneybrook I originally came from New York City. There is a local legend not far from there in Pine Barrens, New Jersey. And now I would like to submit for your approval by the Midnight Society..." Stacey took her bag of spices that Mona and Mary Anne had made to sprinkle on the fire to make it spark and change colors," The Tale of the Jersey Devil." In 1733, Mother Leeds was pregnant with her 13th child. Crying in frustration, she cursed the child saying that it would be the devil. On a dark and stormy night, Mother Leeds gave birth to a normal child. But soon the baby changes to a creature with hooves, a goat's head, bat wings, and a forked tail. It beat everyone with its tail and flew up the chimney and ran off into the woods. There have been many sightings over the years that the Jersey Devil is still out there. Some say the story originated involving early New Jersey politicians Benjamin Franklin and his rival, almanac publisher Daniel Leeds that resulted in describing the Leeds family as monsters. But during the week of January 16-23,1909 newspapers published hundreds of claimed encounters and attacks. It caused some schools to close and workers to stay at home. Remember if you see a Jersey Devil stay perfectly still until....you may hear the Jersey Devil Fight Song!"

Been started playing the New Jersey Devils goal horn song and everyone laughed and sang along. Everyone clapped in the end.

Dawn jumped back up to speak. "I, too am not a native to Stoneybrook. My other residence is in California. We have a lot of things in California, movie stars, healthy food, and yes, Bigfoot. Also known as Sasquatch. I would like to submit for your approval by The Midnight Society 'The Tale of Bigfoot'." Dawn sprinkled the herb dust on the fire and it sparkled. "Bigfoot has been called many names and has been seen in the United States and Canada. The most famous encounter with a Bigfoot was filmed in 1967 in Northern California and is known as the Patterson-Gimlin film. The footage was taken by Bluff Creek. They were riding along on horseback around 1:30 when they came on an overturned tree. When they rounded it, they saw it at the same time. Patterson said it stood nearly 6 to 7 feet tall. He was about 25 feet away and got his camera out of his saddlebag. Gimlin got his gun out and followed. The Bigfoot walked away from them and Patterson ran after it. The Bigfoot glanced back around its shoulder and Patterson fell to his knees. They then lost it in the trees. They went back and made plaster casts of the footprints. He likes to hide out in wooded areas and higher altitudes. They could be anywhere, even in these very woods. Hiding. Spying. And just waiting for an unassuming victim. So if you go out into the woods, kids, be careful. Always bring a buddy and always let someone else know where you are."

The crowd clapped. "And now we are going to be serving smores for dessert. Been will play is some songs while we eat then our final guest, Karen Brewer will be telling our last story of the evening. We hope you have enjoyed yourselves and we will see you back next week."

Dawn stepped down and Ben played some spooky songs while everyone ate. Finally, Ben began playing the theme song to Harry Potter, which was the signal for everyone to get back in their seats and prepare for Karen's story. 

Karen got up and started. "This story is more local than Stacey's. It's so local that it took place within walking distance from here. And it involves everyone in our community. I hereby submit for approval of the Midnight Society...," she threw the herbs on the fire so they changed colors and sparked," 'The Tale of Humphrey Porter'. A long time ago not so far away there was a man that lived here in town. He was a doctor, and part of the Porter family that invented and sold children's chemistry sets. At first, the chemistry sets were thriving, but we're later banned due to harmful substances. Because Humphrey was a doctor, he did not know enough about chemistry to keep the sets within the regulations and soon the facility closed. Around that time, Humphrey became under investigation due to malpractice. He had been in charge of treating patients with different types of disabilities and using experimental tactics and methods to find cures. One day a child he was treating escaped the hospital and was ran over in the street. His grieving parents pressed charges and his position was removed from the hospital. What they didn't know was he continued his practice in private to a few patients that stood by the unconventional methods. One day there was a horrible accident with a patient. Scared he would get in trouble he convinced the client to keep the patient 24/7 for observation. Then there was another incident with a different patient. He convinced these clients to go under observation too. Instead of keeping them at his house, he began to transport them and their families through a secret passage in his home and into the abandoned chemistry manufacturing facility and no one was the wiser. Rumors in town began flying about where the families had disappeared. The parents of the child that had been run over knew Humphrey had something to do with it. They began to hold a weekly meeting with others that thought so and we're against alternative medicine practices. They worked on finding evidence to turn him in. They began to protest at city hall. Just when they thought they had enough evidence to bust him, Humphrey donated the building to the city to make it into a school. His only condition was to keep it a private Montessori school, which is now Stoneybrook Day. The city was grateful and had a big ceremony. The group against him was so disliked by the citizens they eventually moved to the outskirts of town where they continue to practice their old-fashioned ways to this day. No one knows what happened to the patients Humphrey had been hiding in the building. It's like they just disappeared."

Everyone was silent for a moment. Then they burst into loud applause. Dawn got back up and thanked them for coming. She knew as soon as everyone left that she had a lot to talk to Karen about. 

22 Stoneybrook: A Visitor

 I would like to thank Julie for helping me with the development of Stacey's storyline. We cannot wait for our readers to discover what we have in store for Stacey!

A Visitor

After Mary Anne and Logan left Jamie and Dawn got some more food and ate.

"Not exactly California food is it?" Asked Jamie.

"No, it's not," laughed Dawn.

"Do you like visiting here?" 

"Well, this is the first time I've been back in a long time. I am enjoying it this time. I'm staying for the whole summer. I teach yoga to boarding school students back in California."

"Very cool. I get homesick for California sometimes. But you know I like it here too. It's just so different. The seasons, the leaves on the trees."

Just about that time they heard a ruckus over by the billiards. It was Cary Retlin and Alan Gray. 

"You know I'm only in it to get my lighthouse back!" Yelled Alan with clenched fists.

"Oh yeah? Well, what makes you so certain she is doing that for you? You need to get your priorities straight Alan! You need to help out more than the casual overnight work! If I were you I'd be kissing her ass instead of teeny bopping everywhere with The Heiress. Or is she your plan B?"

"I resent that Cary Retlin! You know I care about her!"

"Oh yeah? Are you sure she feels the same way? How does it feel to see her in the gossip column every weekend? I don't see you in those photos!"

"What exactly are you implying?"

You know damn well what I am implying Alan Gray! A girl like that is never going to go for a lazy-ass former lighthouse keeper like you."

"Oh yeah? You wanna take this outside?"

"No Alan I don't. I want you to do your share of the work you were hired to do and stop putting it all on me while you go out partying."

Dawn's jaw dropped. Jamie asked her If she wanted to leave. She didn't know the answer but allowed herself to be lead out the door. She knew she needed to get ahold of Claudia and fast.

Stacey sat down to have lunch with her friend and colleague Erica Blumberg. She hadn't seen her since her and Sam had come back from Europe. Stacey had been seeing much of anybody. And she felt bad because she had not been hanging out that much with the BSC and it was the first time Dawn had visited in a very long time. 

"I've been kind of laying low since we've gotten back. There is something different about Sam. He hasn't been attentive with me lately and I just don't want them to pick up on it. Especially since I don't know what is up with him right now."

"But you all have been friends forever. You should be able to talk to your friends about it. That's what they are there for."

"I know but that's the trouble. You know Sam is Kristy's brother. And Claudia and Mary Anne have known Sam all their lives. I just feel they are too involved. And I don't want to shake things up. Not yet. No, I need to figure out what's wrong on my own. Knowing them they would be servailancing him 24/7."

"That's a good point. They do seem to go overboard sometimes. And they like to jump to conclusions too."

" Yes. I just want to keep an eye out on him on my own for a while. If I find something I may call for reinforcements."

"You can put me on your standby," said Erica, and they both smiled. 

Meanwhile, across the way in Logan's office building, Logan was just about to break for lunch. He picked up his briefcase and headed out to a nearby deli to eat lunch and try to relax.

Once he reached the deli and sat down he turned on his cell phone. He was surprised to get a text message from his cousin Lewis in Kentucky.

"The divorce was finalized today! I'm a free man! I'm thinking of heading to CT on the 4th of July. There isn't much left for me here in Kentucky now that mom and dad have passed away. I want to be close to you, my family. And have a fresh start."

"Congrats cuz! Come on over and stay with us! We can help you get settled into a job and help you look for a house here. Stay as long as you like. We have plenty of room!"

Across town at Watson's house, Mallory also got a ping on her phone...

21 Stoneybrook: "The Right Kind of Love" Part 2

 When they arrived at the bowling alley they got their shoes and went to their assigned bowling lane. "Does anyone want anything to eat?" Asked Jamie.

Jamie and Logan took the orders and went to go get the food. Mary Anne and Dawn began talking about the Sweetheart Dance back in 8th grade where Dawn and Jamie had made up after the mix-up. They were trying to remember which song they had danced to. There was a jukebox by the bathrooms that they thought they could find it on and play it. 

"It was " My Love Is Good Enough" by Jeremy Jordan." Said, Dawn.

"No, I'm sure it was " The Right Kind of Love" by Jeremy Jordan I list to know it!" Said Mary Anne. "Let me go ask Logan."

"No, Mary Anne!" Dawn grabbed the back of Mary Anne's shirt. "I have a better idea. Let's play them both and see if he reacts." The girls raced to the jukebox and made their selections then raced back hoping the boys didn't see them. They made it back in time for the boys to show up with the food.

"Let's get the game started! Do we want to play individuals or teams?"

"Teams!" Yelled Mary Anne. "You and me against Dawn and Jamie."

They all seemed to think that was fair since the boys were fairly skilled and the girls were a little rusty. Logan set up the board and they began. 

When it became Mary Anne's turn Logan carefully instructed her on how to hold the ball, where to stand, and when to throw. Dawn rolled her eyes at Jamie behind their backs. She always hated it when girls acted dumb to get a guy's attention. 

They were all turning out to be surprisingly good bowlers. Dawn was up next. She was glad when Jamie did not assume she was needing any type of instruction. She went up and knocked down almost all the pins! Only one did not fall into the gutter. Jamie jumped up and congratulated her with a hug and it was at that moment "Right Kind of Love" came on the jukebox. Jamie got a twinkle in his eye and his mouth turned up in a smirk smile. "May I have this dance, Sweetheart?" Dawn knew she had picked the right song! 

"Why yes you may" and he held her hand. Jamie led her off the bowling platform and into the little space between it and the table and chairs and began dancing. Logan and Mary Anne joined them. 

Dawn forgot about everything. About being questioned, about Morbidda Destiny, possibly being a relative, about her mom keeping her distance. She was just in her world. And there was dancing and music and laughter. And friends. She and Mary Anne were sisters but they hadn't felt more like friends than this in a very long time. 

Right after the song ended "My Love Is Good Enough" started. They continued dancing. Dawn wasn't even paying attention to their surroundings. Slowly the whole bowling alley even the people at the billiards, we're dancing to the music and enjoying ourselves. Jamie had a nice flair to his dancing that displayed Dawn beautifully. When the song ended they hugged and they suddenly heard everyone clapping for them in the bowling alley. They took some exaggerated bows along with Logan and Mary Anne. An employee got on the microphone and said," Let's hear it for the couples in lane 16! And for national recording artist Jeremy Jordan!" Everyone clapped. Then everyone resumed what they had been doing previously.

It was a close game but Mary Anne and Logan won. They decided to get back home to the kids and give Jamie and Dawn a chance to have some time alone. When Logan and Mary Anne got safely back in the car and we're driving home Logan reluctantly asked Mary Anne a question."Have you heard from Stacey lately?"

"No...Not since Watson's party, I think why? "

"Well, it could be nothing. Don't jump to conclusions. But when Jamie Anderson and I were getting the food I happened to see Sam over by the video games and Stacey wasn't with him...another blonde was. And she looked familiar but I couldn't figure it out. His bowling league could be playing or something though."

"Yes, I'm sure that's what it was." Said Mary Anne.

Although she didn't believe her own words. She wondered what was going on with Sam and Stacey. But she couldn't dwell on it too much. She had also seen another two people that were there that had been an interest to her. Over in the billiards playing pool had been Alan Gray and Cary Retlin.