Jan Washburn - More Than Great Riches

Tracy hesitated on the doorstep of Keiths office. Maggie dropped her off, but she would be back as soon as she filled her gas tank. If Tracy was in luck today, Keith would be out of the office. She had grown tired of fending off his amorous advances. She wanted to leave Jeffs auto insurance policy with his secretary and make a fast getaway.

She rang the bell and pulled the door open at the sound of the buzzer. Miss Collins sat at her desk busily typing on her computer. There was no sign of her boss.

Hallelujah. Tracy gave the secretary a cheerful grin as she laid the insurance policy on her desk. These papers are for Mr. Bradford.

Oh, Miss Dixon, let me tell him youre here.

No, no, thats not necessary. Tracy backed away. Just be sure that he ...

She stopped in mid-sentence as the door to Keiths inner office swung open. She recognized the attractive woman who emerged - Keiths wife, Louise, with Keith right behind her.

Mrs. Bradfords face was on fire. Do you ever stop to consider the consequences of your flirtations? she snapped at Keith in an angry whisper. Do you think you can win reelection if Senator Morris finds youve been making eyes at his wife?

Now, Louise that was just a little harmless fun. Keith whined like a child who had to put away his toys.

Tracy stood frozen, embarrassed to be eavesdropping on a family squabble. But the quarrel came to a sudden halt as they noticed her presence. Their whole demeanor underwent a dramatic transformation.

Keith put on his dedicated attorney face. Tracy, I didnt realize you were here. I think you know my wife, Louise.

Somehow Tracy dredged up a response. Yes, but weve never been formally introduced. Its nice to meet you, Mrs. Bradford.

It was obvious that Louise Bradford was a politicians daughter. No one would guess that she had just been launching a tirade at her wayward husband. She gave Tracy a radiant smile and took her hand. Oh, youre the girl with the beautiful voice. I cant tell you how much I enjoyed your song on Easter. Reverend Edwards should insist that you sing a solo every Sunday.

Thank you. Youre very kind. Tracy felt as though she had stumbled into No Mans Land, caught between two battling armies. She only hoped to make a graceful exit.

Im sorry that I have to run, but my friend is waiting for me. Keith, I left Jeffs insurance policy with Miss Collins.

Good, wonderful! he exclaimed, as though she had just reported some marvelous accomplishment. Ill get right on it.

Goodbye for now. She tried not to break into a run as she headed for the door.

Maggie waved to her from the cab of the old pickup parked at the curb. Tracy strolled down the walk with all the dignity she could muster. Did Louise Bradford know that Keith had once been her fianc? She hoped Louise never discovered that Keith had been forcing his attentions on her. Mrs. Bradford would never want to hear her sing another note in church again.

****

Jeffs condition seemed unchanged as Tracy and Leif stood gazing through the glass wall into his sterile prison. Tracy studied Jeffs face. Had the swelling lessened just a bit, or was she seeing what she wanted to see instead of reality?

Oh, Jeff, open your eyes or say something. A single tear rolled slowly down her cheek. She reached for Leifs hand. In spite of all her good intentions, she needed his strength. She couldnt see any sign of improvement.

But Dr. Burrows was smiling as he joined them at the window. Tracy dashed away the tear. Please have some good news.

Miss Dixon, Im very encouraged about your brothers progress. As you know weve done extensive skin graftshis back, his legs, his arm, and his hands. We were able to use skin from his scalp and other areas that werent damaged. It appears that at least ninety percent of the skin grafts have adhered.

Tracys spirits soared. Oh, bless you, doctor. Thats wonderful.

Were still keeping him in a coma, but he seems a little more responsive now. The next step is to take him to the tank to remove the burned tissue. That will promote the healing.

Tracy was sure she must be glowing like a candle. Thank you, Lord. Thank you .

Leif squeezed her hand. He looked as though a load had been lifted from his shoulders. He kept his feelings to himself, but Tracy suspected that inside he was suffering as much as she was.

She held tight to his hand as they stood in silence, just watching Jeffs immobile figure. Finallya ray of hope. The first good news they had heard since the accident.