FanStory.com - The Letter by Mustang Patty

FanStory.com
"The Letter"

Chapter 1
The Old Lady

By Mustang Patty

It was her birthday today. She knew many people shied away from their birthdays, but she did not. No, the day was to be celebrated. It was proof she was strong enough to make it through yet another year. This was her eighty-fifth birthday, and though her body had pangs, and her mind wasn't quite as bright, she was still here.

Sitting in her tidy parlor, she sipped from her tea cup and allowed her mind to drift back to happier times. She thought the very best years were the ones when the grandchildren were little. After bringing up five children, the grandchildren were her special reward. They appeared so swiftly after the long-awaited marriages. She thought herself so lucky. Four weddings within a year, and the next year brought four babies, quickly followed by two more the next year, and so on.

With a sigh, she glanced at the liver spotted hand holding her teacup. Bringing her to the present, she could only smile at the memories. Her tables were graced with silver frames honoring each of them. Her oldest boy gave her four wonderful babies, and her oldest daughter gave her one. The middle daughter gave her two, though they were thirteen years apart in age, her younger son gave her another two, and her youngest daughter blessed her with two boys, born exactly five years apart. Yes, she was grandmother to eleven babies; five girls and six boys.

Grabbing her cane, and hobbling towards the first table, she grimaced with the pain. Happy faces smiled back at her. These pictures came from their school years. Missing teeth and some forced smiles greeted her. Their little faces danced through her dreams. How she longed to have those years back.

Where had the time gone? Where were all of them now? The phone had yet to ring, and it was nearly eleven o'clock. She could remember the days when a party would be planned. Special angel food cake baked, and since it was her favorite, everyone needed to enjoy the spongy taste and the vanilla ice cream she insisted on.

Her phone was chirping. "Hello? Oh, hi sweetie. It's so nice to hear from you. Will you be able to come by today? I ordered some cake and cookies." She listened for a moment.

"I understand. Your job does keep you busy, doesn't it? In just a few more years, you will be able to retire, and then you will have more time. Of course, I may not be here then, but it's alright…"

At least her oldest son remembered the day. He lived just a few miles away, but his new lady friend kept him busy. She thought it would be different when he moved back from Texas after his divorce. Seemed his wife finally got fed up after twenty-two years. She took the house, half of his military pension, and kicked him out. She didn't really want to spend much time with their kids either. She declared herself independent.

The eighties and the nineties were full of family outings. They took so many trips together. She kept everything organized and everyone had a job and chores. It was so much fun to spend time together. All their vacation time was taken up with trips together. It didn't matter – why would they want to be anywhere else?

When did it take a turn? Why was there no one here now? She truly didn't understand.

Oh, there were the squabbles. The girls, her daughters and daughters-in-law, didn't always get along too well. They hated how she compared one to the other. No one wanted to hear how another had kept her figure after giving birth. They were chagrined when she rated their housekeeping from one through five. Maybe she shouldn't have shared her thoughts with all of them. When they were in the same room, scowls and frowns were passed.

Calling out, she summoned the home health care aide to her side. "Please make me some lunch, and be sure the good china and silver are ready for the children to drop by." That girl always had to be reminded to do everything. She did not like having someone in the house, but it couldn't be helped. She was too dizzy to cook for herself.

One face and her harsh words kept coming to mind. Her other daughter-in-law, once sweet and the best of them all, told her in no uncertain terms what would happen. "If you don't stop manipulating all of us, you will be a very lonely old woman." She had screamed it in defiance at one family gathering. The day was supposed to be a celebration, but when the girls all got together, they found she had been gossiping again. Each knew something about the others, and it turned out to be white lies.

Shaking the memory, she turned to her light lunch. She couldn't be blamed for their silly squabbles. She only said the things she did to give them things to aspire to. Sometimes they were simply lazy.

Sighing, she looked at the phone willing it to ring. Surely, they all knew it was her birthday. With gentle reminders of the day, she told all of them that no one knew just how many birthdays she had left.

Looking further across the room, she glimpsed the silver frames graced with photos of her great grandchildren. She hadn't met any of them in person. All her grandchildren had moved to the four corners of the United States. They claimed they couldn't afford to come and visit. She knew their cell phones didn't charge for long distance calls, so the phone should ring at least occasionally.

Could it be true? Did she push them all away? No, the phone would ring and so would the doorbell. She wouldn't have to spend her birthday alone.

Author Notes picture courtesy of Pinterest - an 82 year old woman

This character is a main character of a book idea I'm developing in my head. The story will focus around her, her five children and their spouses and the grown grandchildren. Let me know what you think of her, and how I might develop the character to show her manipulative nature.

Chapter 2
The Letter - Part One

By Mustang Patty

A knock on the door disturbed my morning routine. I had absolutely no idea who it might be. It was only seven thirty in the morning; who on earth…?

The sight of what looked like a policeman's cap through the keyhole at the top of the door stopped me in my tracks. Whatever this was, it wasn't good. I pulled the door open and looked into the face of a tired mailman.

"Sorry to disturb ya so early, ma'am. I got this here Special Delivery letter for ya."

Staring at the letter, I put out my hand. "Who would send me something Special Delivery?"

"I don't rightly know, but if ya'll sign here, I'll be on my way."

Pushing a stylus and his electronic device into my open hand, he indicated where he needed my signature. As soon as I finished the last letter of my name, he shoved the envelope into my hand and hurried towards his waiting jeep. With him gone, I shut the door and concentrated on the problem he dropped into my day.

My hand shook as I looked at the thick stationary. On the back flap in embossed letters was a name I never thought I'd see again, 'W. Jane Hamlin.'

"What does she want?" I muttered to the empty house.

The letter was heavy and bulged in the business size envelope. Whatever she wanted, it took her pages to say it. With a shaky hand, I opened the envelope.

Her familiar perfume assaulted my nostrils, and I glimpsed her handwriting before I noticed the item enfolded in the pages. A cashiers' check for fifty thousand dollars made out to me lay on top of the letter. Though my mother-in-law had money, she rarely shared with anyone, so I was confused, to say the least.

I was conflicted. After fifteen years of estrangement, why was she reaching out now? What was the money for? What did she really want?

There was only one way to find out. After going into the kitchen and pouring a cup of coffee, I walked on shaky legs to the dining room table. It was probably best to sit down while I read. Shaking my head in disbelief, I pulled out a chair, and settled in.

Dear Kathy;

I know you must be surprised to receive this letter, but if you are holding this in your hand, then I am dead. You, my dear, are the first to know, and I've given you money and instructions on what to do next.

Wait a minute! Why was it my responsibility to do anything next? What about her son Jerry, or one of her daughters? I knew she wouldn't think my husband, Doug, would do anything for her. But surely one of her other kids… Did she piss them all off, too?

I'm sure you're surprised that I would ask you to do this. We haven't always gotten along very well, and it's been years since we've talked, but I always admired you and all that you stand for.

What the hell did she mean by that? Yes, it was years, and yes, we didn't get along all that well. But, she spent most of our time together putting me down. She always pointed out how I did things wrong. I wasn't bringing up the kids right; I didn't dress just so, and heaven forbid if I put on a few pounds!

I need you to take care of my final arrangements and bringing everyone together for my memorial. I've included a list of phone numbers, addresses and the necessary paperwork to take care of my remains. You will see I've already selected the funeral parlor, the urn, and the music. You simply need to make the phone calls to set everything in motion.

The money I included for you is to make sure everyone can attend. I don't want money to be the reason someone can't come to the service. Buy airplane tickets and hotel accommodations. Pay for their meals, and nice clothes if they need them. (I want everyone to look nice.) Oh, and please have the photographer I've arranged for to get a nice family picture, and then make sure everyone gets a copy.

Kathy, I know this is a lot to ask. I also know why you've stayed away all these years. I forgive you and you will have a more meaningful gift at the reading of the will. Whether you choose to believe it or not, you were my favorite. The kind of daughter I always wanted, you were a wonderful mother and wife to my son. I'm sorry I never took the time to tell you. I simply had to make sure no one else knew how much I loved you.

More love than you know,
Mom

My heart broke as I read those words. Why didn't she tell me when I needed to hear it most? I needed to know I was doing things right. Heaven knows my own mother never told me anything nice about myself. I spent more time as an adult with Jane, and I wanted her to accept me so much. I thought I'd fallen short. I thought she saw me as a failure.

I looked through the rest of the pages of the letter. Sure enough, there were all the phone numbers and a copy of the arrangements she made with the funeral director. She planned every detail. I only needed to make the phone calls and prepare myself to enter a room full of people I thought I'd never see again.

I went to the kitchen and armed myself with another cup of coffee. I grabbed a pen and my cell phone on my way back to the table. Taking a deep breath, I dialed the first number on the list.

...to be continued

Author Notes photo of postage stamp from google.com

Chapter 3
The Letter - Part Two

By Mustang Patty

In Part One, we were introduced to Kathy and her dilemma. Her estranged mother-in-law left a letter for her when she died. Arriving by Special Delivery, it contained a cashiers' check for $100K*, and directions about organizing her memorial service. Kathy was expected to call her in-laws, nieces, nephews; and tell them about the upcoming event. She was to use the money for travel arrangements, hotel rooms and the meal for all of them after the service. Within the page of the letter, her mother-in-law spoke about her love for Kathy; never expressed in life, but apparently the reason she entrusted her to take care of this last wish.

From the last chapter:

… I went to the kitchen and armed myself with another cup of coffee. I grabbed a pen and my cell phone on my way back to the table. Taking a deep breath, I dialed the first number on the list.

----------@>

The first number belonged to Jerry, the number one son. It went straight to voicemail. Kathy looked at the clock. Everyone was probably at work – should she continue down the list or…?

She contemplated what to do next as she looked at the black ink in her coffee cup. Oh…she needed to call Doug! How would he handle the news? Not only was his mother gone—someone he hadn't seen or talked to since his niece's wedding, over seven years ago, but his wife was handling the arrangements. Should she call him and ask him to come home? He would probably think something was wrong with her or one of the kids. But, she didn't want to tell him over the phone. It was going to be a tough pill to swallow.

----------@>

Doug rushed into the house about forty minutes later. Kathy was seated at the dining room table with a stack of three by five cards, several colored pens, and the contents of the letter. She watched him approach, and scrambled for the words to tell him. She saw his eyes land on the check. He picked it up and let out a low whistle.

"Who sent you a hundred thousand dollars?"

She looked up at him with tears threatening to spill down her cheeks. It physically hurt to talk. "Honey, I have something to tell you. You need to sit down.

"Earlier this morning, this letter came to me Special Delivery. It seems that your mother is dead and she left me her final wishes. I'm so sorry."

Waiting to give him time to catch up with her words, she monitored his reaction. Should she go on or let him talk about his feelings about his mother's death.

"So…let me get this straight. My mother died and had a letter sent to you? Then, she left instructions and this huge check... for you to do what exactly?"

Clearing her throat, Kathy explained. "This letter contained a copy of the arrangements she made for her service, but it seems that I get to call everyone and arrange for everybody to attend the memorial.

"The money is supposed to go for all the airplane tickets, hotel rooms, and…oh, get this; I need to make sure everyone has something 'suitable' to wear. She wants us to all pose for a group photo."

He looked at her in disbelief. "You? You're supposed to call people you haven't spoken to in years to invite them to their own mother's memorial service? This is unbelievably cruel…even for her.

"We stopped talking to them right after my father's funeral. Except for Jerry, and his kids, we haven't had anything to do with any of them. Oh, there was the call from Sylvia when she begged for our forgiveness, but we shut that down. I just can't believe this shit. What are you going to do?"

With a sigh, she explained. "I'm going to do as she asked. In the letter, she told me how she really felt about me. Or how she wants me to remember her—I'm not really sure. All I know is she counted on me to get this done. I owe it to myself to work on this last project she left for me. I will make the phone calls and the travel arrangements. I will plan the event for after the service. The worst part will be seeing your sisters again, but it's only for a few hours. I think I can do it…" She looked over at him. The tears were streaming down her face now. He moved to give her a hug and a place of comfort in his arms.

"Do you want me to help you with calls?" he whispered in her ear.

She pulled away to peer into his face. "Oh…would you? That would be such a relief. If you make the phone calls to all of them, I will get going on the arrangements for her 'wake.' Let everyone know we will get the exact date to them, along with the flight information and name of the hotel. Shouldn't we use the Best Western in town? You're a Diamond level guest; we can probably negotiate a good rate for a block of rooms…"

----------@>

Taking his cell phone and the list into the bedroom, he prepared himself to make the calls. He dialed Jerry's number and left a voice mail for him to call him back as soon as possible.

The next number belonged to Sylvia and he knew this would be hard. She and he were the best of friends in high school. They purchased their first car together. He stood by her when she went through her painful teenage pregnancy. He helped her to make the decision to give up the baby. But then, she had treated Kathy horribly for the first sixteen years of their marriage. He simply couldn't forgive that.

Firstly, how would he tell her of their mother's death? He was pretty sure she still saw her, and while he wasn't sure just how close they were, he knew she would be deeply affected by the news.

The tones of the number could be heard as he punched the keys. Lifting the phone to his ear, he cleared his throat. Sylvia answered on the third ring.

"Hi. This is Doug. I'm afraid I've got some bad news. Are you sitting down? Is your wife with you?"

He listened to her answer. He had prepared her the best he could.

"Mom passed away...and I'm calling you to invite you to the memorial service."

"What? Why are you calling me with this news? Isn't Jerry the Executor of the Will? What do you have to do with any of this? You and that wife of yours haven't been around for years. Is this your idea of some kind of a sick joke? You're an idiot, you know that. I would have expected something like this from your wacko wife, but you? I'm not willing…"

Doug cut her off before she could say anything else. "Sylvia, I know this is hard to hear, and I know you're surprised. Mom asked Kathy to take care of everything. I'm making the phone calls because I knew you and your sisters would verbally beat her up. Just listen! I will call you back with the date of the service and where it is. We are going to have a big meal together after the service. Can you call your daughter and make sure she can be there? Is she away at school? Will she need any help getting down here?"

----------@>

It took over an hour to make the phone calls. He was sweating and had a horrible headache. His sisters were angry and then, contrite. After they assaulted his ears with insults about Kathy, they would then calm down and try to 'make nice' with him. It seemed to him that they were hoping this was the beginning of a new relationship. He decided when Kathy first told him about it all, that this memorial service was the last time he would ever have to deal with them. They were the most toxic people on earth. Their actions and words had almost killed Kathy, and he would never let them back in.

He returned to the dining room to listen to Kathy talking with the manager of the Best Western.

"Okay. So, we have the block of rooms reserved, and the banquet room booked for the buffet, right? Do you have a list of caterers for me to contact, or can you help me with the arrangements for the food?

"Uh huh. Okay, I need food for forty adults and eight children. We will need some high chairs and booster chairs for the kids. Can we have round tables set up? I will need some appropriate centerpieces and nice linens. I would like an open bar and enough room for people to mingle and mill around.

"I think that will do it. Can I call you back if I think of anything else?

"Okay, great. I have your number and we have this set for next Saturday afternoon. Thank you so much for your help. Oh…one more thing, can I have a few security people? It might get rough if everyone is drinking…"

…to be continued

Author Notes *I increased the amount of the check to $100K; I came to realize that round trip airfare for so many people and the block of hotel rooms, meals, and clothing would require much more than the original $50K.

Sorry this ran a bit long, but I couldn't find a break in the action before this. The next part will be posted towards the end of next week. I leave in a few days to go and visit my daughter, her husband, and my grandbabies!

Chapter 4
The Letter - Part Three

By Mustang Patty

In Parts One and Two, we were introduced to Kathy and her dilemma. Her estranged mother-in-law left a strange letter for her when she died. With the enclosed cashiers' check for $100K, Kathy was expected to organize the memorial service and make sure all the family were there. Within the page of the strange letter, her mother-in-law spoke about her love for Kathy; never expressed in life, but apparently the reason she entrusted her to take care of this last wish.

Kathy called her husband, Doug, home from work. Once he absorbed the fact of his estranged mother's death and the enormous task set before Kathy, he offered to help. Doug made the calls to his siblings about their mother's death, and accepted the abuse from his sisters, while Kathy made the arrangements for the memorial service.

From the last chapter:
"Uh huh. Okay, I need food for forty adults and eight children. We will need some high chairs and booster chairs for the kids. Can we have round tables set up? I will need some appropriate centerpieces and nice linens. I would like an open bar and enough room for people to mingle and mill around.

"I think that will do it. Can I call you back if I think of anything else?

"Okay, great. I have your number and we have this set for next Saturday afternoon. Thank you so much for your help. Oh…one more thing, can I have a few security people? It might get rough if everyone is drinking…"

----------@>

The sign in the church vestibule read:

Memorial Service
W. Jane Hamlin
1932 – 2017
Private

Organ music flowed and the parking lot was full. She watched all of them make their way in and she smiled. They were all there.

----------@>

Kathy smoothed down the fabric of her new dress and looked over to admire Doug in his new suit. She'd used every penny of the clothing allowance and more. Smiling back at their daughter and son with their families, they walked into the Memorial Service.

Suddenly there was a collective hush. Every eye turned to Kathy's face. She could see the looks of disdain on the faces of her sisters-in-law. While Jerry's kids smiled their encouragement, the other nieces and nephews looked confused. They hadn't seen this part of the family for over fifteen years; they hardly even knew them.

In the front of the room, sat a large frame full of the pictures Jane had selected. There was her college graduation picture, her wedding picture with Frank, and family photos spaced every few years. In one there were only three siblings, then four, and finally five. As the years went by, the pictures reflected they all grew, changed, and then left for college or to begin their lives. In the very center, a group family photo from twenty years ago sat. A few of the grandchildren were just babies, but the smiles of the adults were all strained, and the familial cracks could be sensed.

The church looked like a battle field with strict lines drawn. Jerry and his family were sitting in one part, while Sylvia and her wife sat with their daughter in another. Caressa sat with her husband, Bill, and their children right behind Sylvia, and next to them was Agnes and her sons.

Doug squeezed Kathy's hand as they began to walk down the aisle. This was the church where they were married and each of their kids had been baptized. It was also the place where many bad memories lived.

----------@>

Sylvia rolled her eyes at her wife. How on earth could Kathy look so good? They were all in their late fifties and she still looked wonderful. Sure, she wore glasses now, but she was so pulled together. She looked down at their own clothes and wondered if it hadn't been such a good idea to only spend half the clothing allowance and pocket the rest.

Doug held onto her hand the way he did whenever they were all together. It seemed that he was still Kathy's knight in shining armor. In disgust, Sylvia reminded herself that they'd all said the marriage would never last. And just look at them, still together, with two beautiful kids and two cute grandchildren.

She glanced over at her sisters, Caressa and Agnes and could just imagine what they were thinking…

----------@>

Caressa's eyes felt like they were bulging out of their sockets. The bitch had actually had the nerve to show up. She reached into her purse and handed a twenty-dollar bill to her husband, Bill. Losing the bet was nothing compared to her pangs of envy as she looked at the beauty of Doug's family. Just watching them, one could see that they were still that close family unit they always were. With Kathy as the loving matriarch at the center of the picture-perfect group, Caressa just wanted to puke.

----------@>

While Sylvia and Caressa were full of envy, Agnes was simply full of sadness. She and Kathy were almost friends once. Kathy was there for Agnes whenever she needed her. She helped her after the divorce and she listened to her woes while she dated. She and Doug helped financially during the lean years while the boys were young, but… Agnes had let her sisters' and mother's feelings poison hers. She had helped to make Kathy feel ostracized at every family event. When Doug and Kathy left the family, it was the most painful for Agnes and she knew she had a big part of the blame.

----------@>

The priest began the service Jane had put together and everyone sat with their own thoughts.

'…I wonder if there will be booze at this reception?'

'Hopefully, I won't be standing too close to her when we have this stupid picture taken…'

'I hope Kathy arranged for some good food. Maybe she cooked some of her lasagna? I've really missed that.'

----------@>

Kathy had a bad headache by the time the memorial service was over. It was uncomfortable with so many mental daggers being thrown her way. Every fiber of her being was aching. On top of everything else, she felt like she was being watched. Oh, yes, she knew they were watching her. This felt different. This felt ominous.

It was a wise decision to purposely not plan a receiving line after the church service was over. As they drove to the hotel, she mentally started to count the hours until the reception would be over. She only hoped she would be able to make it through.

----------@>

Gleaming silverware accented by the brilliance of the stemware highlighted the place settings on each round table. Crisp linens shouted opulence and the tasteful centerpieces topped it all off. The reception hall waited for all that was to come.

She smiled at all the arrangements that had been made. Yes, this was just perfect. They had all come. The job was well done.

to be continued…

Author Notes antique postage stamp courtesy of googlepictures

This chapter has set us up for the action to come at the reception. I hope you will follow along as the story continues in Part Four. ~patty~

Chapter 5
The Letter - Part Four

By Mustang Patty

In the first three parts of this story, we were introduced to Kathy, her husband Doug, and their estranged family. W. Jane Hamlin, Kathy's mother-in-law, has had a mysterious letter sent to her with instructions to put together her Memorial Service. A cashier's check for $100K is to be used to cover the expenses to make sure all the family is there.

The letter lets Kathy know that her mother-in-law loved her despite all that had happened in the past. Based on this knowledge, Kathy uses all her organizational talents to put the service together. Though the details of the troubles haven't been revealed, it is clear that Doug and Kathy haven't seen most of the family for over fifteen years. Doug contacts his estranged siblings and the arrangements are made.

Having survived the Memorial service, Kathy's nerves are a bit frayed. The reception is about to begin and Kathy's work shines as they enter the banquet room. Each sibling and their families have tables with name place cards, the open bar is ready for service, and soft music fills the room.

Kathy and Doug reluctantly take their places at the short reception line to welcome the family.

The family includes Doug's four siblings. Jerry is the oldest, and Doug and Kathy have been in contact with him and his children over the years. Sylvia, Doug's gay, oldest sister is present with her wife and daughter. Caressa, the most vicious of the sisters is present with her husband, Bill and their children. Agnes, the youngest sister, is there with her children, and she has the most regrets about her relationship with Kathy.

Kathy nervously waited for the first of the families to arrive. She practiced the smile she had perfected in her mirror this morning. She knew getting through this reception line would be one of the hardest things she'd ever done, but it was sure to be the last interactions with these toxic people.

Doug squeezed Kathy's hand as they could hear the approach of the guests. She turned to smile at him, and turned back to see Sylvia's sneering face.

"We will get caught up, won't we?" she purred into Kathy's face. Though the look in her eye didn't match the cooing of her words, Kathy looked back at her levelly. She refused to be intimidated.

"Of course, Sylvia. I would love to hear how you've been doing. I'm sure it's an interesting story."

Sylvia looked as if she'd been slapped. Kathy could tell she was obviously disappointed that she couldn't rattle her. Maybe this would be fun after all.

She awkwardly shook hands with Sylvia's wife and hugged her niece. As she watched them find their table, she prepared herself for the next onslaught. Caressa's arrival would be interesting.

Caressa and Bill were amid an animated conversation as they walked through the door. Caressa abruptly cut off her words as she glared at Kathy. Hissing, she greeted her. "Well, aren't you just the princess today? I suppose you think Mama gave you this great honor because she missed you, don't you? Did you ever think she knew you were the only one stupid enough to put this together? The food better make this all worthwhile. The only thing good about this day will be the reading of the will."

Kathy merely continued to smile. "I'm sure you will enjoy the food, Caressa. I'm glad you could make it." Dismissing Caressa's words, Kathy turned to Bill with a smile. "It's nice to see you again, Bill. I think you will find your table over there." Pointing towards their table, Kathy turned and greeted their children.

Why did Caressa expect the will to be read today? No one had mentioned the will to Kathy; it wasn't in the letter anywhere. Kathy didn't expect Jane's lawyer to show up – did Caressa know something, or was she merely spreading her own version of the day?

Agnes's arrival was totally unexpected. She peered into Kathy's eyes with tears filling her own. Her arms reached out for a hug, and Kathy reluctantly returned her embrace.

"Oh, Kathy. I am so sorry for everything that happened. Please find it in your heart to forgive me. I know just how much you and Doug did for me. I'm sorry I haven't tried to reach out all these years. I just didn't know what to say," she sobbed.

Her tears were too late to shake Kathy's resolve. She was past all hopes of ever reconciling with these people. Their actions had driven her to the lowest of lows. As she had sat in the mental hospital all those years ago, she swore she would never have any interactions with them again. It was only out of duty to Jane that she was allowing herself to be in the same room with them again. They were poison to her system.

-------@>

The serving staff moved through the banquet hall quickly and soon, everyone was enjoying the sumptuous meal Kathy had planned. There was a beautiful salmon steak accompanied by caramelized Brussel sprouts, steamed garden vegetables, and perfectly mashed potatoes. Each table had a huge basket of different breads, fresh salted butter, and a large bowl of fresh fruit salad. Everything was served in beautiful crystal and silver serving pieces. The room was full of beauty and grace. However, the ugliness of unexpressed emotions struggled to make itself known.

-------@>

Kathy could feel the furtive glances. Some were full of curiosity, but mostly they were full of rage and pique. She knew they were wondering why their mother had decided to lay aside their differences and ask her to plan this elaborate gathering. She could only wonder, too. The last time she and Jane had spoken, some harsh words were exchanged. Kathy's mind wandered back to that day.

"How dare you threaten to take my grandchildren away? It is my right to see them whenever I want."

"The law doesn't give you any rights. You have overstepped your boundaries one too many times. I will NOT have you showing up at the kids' school and picking them up without my permission. I was parked in the parking lot, and you stole them right from the front door."

"I did not steal the children. I took them out for ice cream. We discussed our plans for the summer. I didn't think you would have any problem with this."

"My problem is in the fact that you didn't ask!"

"I do not have to ask to spend time with my grandchildren. I know they wanted to have ice cream with me. I know they are looking forward to our special time this summer – they would rather spend time with me, than you."

"H-how on earth can you even think that? I'm their mother. I had my own plans for how we would spend the evening of their last day of school. I get to decide how they will spend their time this summer. I will not have your interference in my raising of the children anymore. You would think that after the things that came to light this past weekend, you would understand how I feel.

"Jane, I simply feel that I must end all ties with you and your vicious daughters. I'm not the villain here. The things that happened over the last few weeks are unforgivable. You went too far. Comparing all of us girls has gotten out of hand. To imply that I'm crazy and my children would be better off with you is just ridiculous. I only act crazy sometimes because it is simply too much pressure to put up with all of you."

"What happened was NOT my fault. I can't help it if the girls are upset with you. It was you that planned the perfect party. It was you that was totally prepared for all that came. It was you that accepted the praise. They were angry because you showed them up, as always. If you weren't little Miss Perfect, none of this would happen. I maybe went too far in praising your actions, but I only wish they would listen and be more giving and courteous. I didn't do anything wrong."

"You do EVERYTHING wrong. You assume you have rights when it comes to my children. You have continually compared all of us girls until the jealousy and envy has grown into an ugly thing! Do you realize that they all hate me? I am continually ostracized because – why? Because I give good parties? Because my children are well behaved? Because I always look pulled together? Because my house is clean? Because after almost twenty years my husband still loves me?

"You created all of this hostility. We can't all be in the same room for any family get-together without there being so much stress that everyone is tired by the end of the evening. Not a single function has gone by without someone saying something so unkind that I dissolve into tears. Why do you enjoy the dysfunction so much? Is it truly because you want to be the only one loved? Are you just that cruel?

"The more I talk, the more I realize what a monster you are. I AM taking my children home, and as far as I'm concerned, you will never see them again. You simply need to get out of my life."

-------@>

Reflecting on the last time she had seen Jane, Kathy sighed. It was such a long time ago, and as she felt the hate in the room, she wondered if she had placed the blame in the wrong place. Caressa was looking at her with such hate in her eyes, she feared the worst. If only she didn't feel like she needed to use the restroom. She knew an ambush could happen, and her heart ached. Was she up to this?

-------@>

From inside the stall, Kathy heard the door to the ladies' room open and close a few times. No words could be heard, but neither could steps. Who and why were the people simply standing in place? Kathy was sure she knew, and as she finished, she prepared herself for what waited for her on the other side of the door.

"So, we finally get a chance to talk," chirped Caressa. The smile on her face was beatific and full of malice. Her intent to hurt was palpable and Kathy felt her insides withering with fear. These people could hurt her beyond reason. Though the pain wouldn't be physical, she knew she may come out of this crippled.

"You really didn't think we would let you get away without a conversation, did you?" Sylvia quipped. Her face, too, was drawn into a vicious smile. The standoff was set and Kathy knew she would need to defend herself.

"How dare you keep our brother from us for all these years? You know we didn't do anything worth the pain you've caused us. We knew him way before you did. He and our niece and nephew weren't all yours. We are related to them by blood," Caressa's words echoed on the walls.

"It was just as much Doug's decision to stay away. He wanted to protect me from the vile things you said."

"Really? Just what was it that we said that was so bad?"

"Well, for one thing, you called me a witch. You said no one could keep their house so clean and their weight down without help from the devil. Next, you accused me of having an affair with Doug's best friend. I don't even have the slightest idea where you came up with that one – it simply didn't make sense."

"You had to be having an affair with someone. You were just too happy for a woman that had been married for almost twenty years. No one can be that happy. Not even you.

"On top of it all, you insisted on helping Agnes through her divorce. It seemed as though you thought you were the only one that could help her…"

"Where were you? Did you even offer to go with her to court? Did you listen to her on the phone as she cried? I don't think I did anything that a caring person wouldn't do. I helped her because neither of you even tried to be there.

"Doug and I were and ARE happy. I'm sorry if you can't believe in true love. Doug makes me happy and I do the same for him. You should both be happy that Doug has been happy all these years. Are you so unhappy with your own lives that you want everyone to be as miserable as you?"

"I'm not miserable," claimed Caressa. "Bill and I are very happy. He is…a good husband." She trailed off as she realized she didn't have anything else positive to say about her marriage. She hated that Kathy was right. She was miserable and that made her hate Kathy with every fiber in her being. What right did she have to be happy?

"How happy can you really be, Kathy? Aren't you still being treated for mental illness? Don't you still have to take medication? You're a nutcase and you always have been," sneered Sylvia.

"You know, for a mental health professional, you are certainly full of misinformation. Yes, I still take medication, but I'm stable. I'd venture to say I handle life a lot better than you. I'm not bitter and full of doubt about my self-worth. I'm truly happy."

Silence from both sisters met Kathy's words. Her proclamation of happiness stunned them into their own thoughts. It seemed there was nothing left to say. They all left the ladies' room in unison.

Kathy concluded that both women were completely uncomfortable in their own skin. Even after all these years, they wanted to attack her for…nothing. For all her fears, the conversation had actually gone well. She knew she had had the right to be offended by their accusations all those years ago, and she knew she was within her rights to continue to ignore them. They were still very toxic women.

-------@>

When Kathy reentered the banquet hall, she was followed by a man pushing a wheelchair. The figure in the chair was dressed all in black. A dark veil covered the face, and she indicated that he should park her at the front of the room. Kathy was a bit taken back – who was this stranger? She didn't know who it could be, and she wondered what they wanted.

Suddenly, all eyes were looking at the front of the room. A murmur could be heard as they all wondered what was going on. Did Kathy have something special planned? As the light dawned in Sylvia's mind, she swore to herself that Kathy knew what was coming…

Author Notes antique stamp from google images

Sorry this is NOT the last of the story. This part got a bit long and I simply had to stop here. The final show down is coming. As you can tell, the confrontation with the sisters was somewhat anti-climatic - for them and for Kathy. It seems that the years have melted away the sting of their words for Kathy, but she will never be able to forgive them for the malice and viciousness.

But, everyone is in for a surprise now...

Chapter 6
The Letter - Part Five

By Mustang Patty

In the first four parts of this story, we were introduced to Kathy, her husband Doug, and their estranged family. W. Jane Hamlin, Kathy's mother-in-law, has had a mysterious letter sent to her with instructions to put together her Memorial Service. A cashier's check for $100K is to be used to cover the expenses to make sure all the family is there.

The letter lets Kathy know that her mother-in-law loved her despite all that had happened in the past. Based on this knowledge, Kathy uses all her organizational talents to put the service together. Though the details of the troubles haven't been revealed, Doug and Kathy haven't seen most of the family for over fifteen years. Doug contacts his estranged siblings and the arrangements are made.

The family includes Doug's four siblings. Jerry is the oldest, and Doug and Kathy have been in contact with him and his children over the years. Sylvia, Doug's gay, oldest sister is present with her wife and daughter. Caressa, the most vicious of the sisters is present with her husband, Bill and their children. Agnes, the youngest sister, is there with her children, and she has the most regrets about her relationship with Kathy.

During the reception, there has been a showdown between Kathy, Sylvia, and Caressa in the ladies' room. Kathy stood her ground and clearly won the round. We rejoin the story as Kathy returns to the reception…

From Part Four:
When Kathy reentered the banquet hall, she was followed by a man pushing a wheelchair. The figure in the chair was dressed all in black. A dark veil covered the face, and she indicated that he should park her at the front of the room. Kathy was a bit taken back – who was this stranger? She didn't know who it could be, and she wondered what they wanted.

Suddenly, all eyes were looking at the front of the room. A murmur could be heard as they all wondered what was going on. Did Kathy have something special planned? As the light dawned in Sylvia's mind, she swore to herself that Kathy knew what was coming…

-------@>

…and now our story concludes:

The room was so silent, Kathy could hear her heart beating rapidly in her chest. Instinctively, she reached for Doug's hand. His hand was cold, and Kathy looked over at his face.

His eyes were focused on the figure at the front of the room. Bright tears stood just waiting at the brim of his bottom lashes. Kathy realized in that moment who it was beneath the veil. Her breath caught in her throat as she turned towards the show at the front of the room.

Very slowly, the old, wrinkled hands rose to the hem of the veil. With agonizing slowness, the veil was raised up. Within seconds, the face of W. Jane Hamlin was revealed. She had a beatific smile for the crowd. After all, this was her crowd. She had assembled all her offspring and their families for her pleasure.

-------@>

Jerry felt as though his heart might come through his skin. She was alive? How on earth had this come to be? Did Kathy and Doug know this would happen? He looked over at his brother, and could tell from the stunned expression on his face that he, too, was in absolute shock.

-------@>

Sylvia could hardly breathe. Her mother's presence completely rattled her. It was obvious she and Kathy must have conspired together to cause this turn of events. She knew her mother was angry. She could see through the smile on dear old Mom's face. Whatever was to come now would not be pleasant.

-------@>

Narrowing her eyes, Caressa turned her face to look at Kathy. She was startled to see the surprised look on Kathy's face. She had been so sure Kathy knew her mother was alive. If Kathy didn't know what was going on, Caressa shuddered to think of what was coming next. It seemed as if Mother was in charge now. What was it she had gone through all this trouble to say? It certainly wasn't the reading of the will Caressa had come to hear. With disappointment in her cold heart, she waited for what was to come.

Agnes didn't know what to do. Should she rush to the front of the room and embrace her mother? Or should she continue to stand there along with everyone else and wait for the axe to fall? She understood in her heart of hearts exactly what this was all about. She knew she hadn't been to visit the old lady in quite some time. She hadn't called either. Mother had brought them all together to complain about the lack of attention. Her method had been a bit extreme, but then Mother never did things any other way.

-------@>

Retrieving her cane from the young man who'd wheeled her in, Jane used it to bring herself to a standing position. Clearing her throat, she began the speech she'd been rehearsing for weeks.

"What a lovely sight this is. Imagine my busy children and grandchildren all in one place. Even my great-grandchildren, some of whom I've never met, are gathered here to honor me. I'm so very pleased you could clear your schedules to travel to my funeral. It pains me that you were unable to come and see me while I was alive. Many of you didn't even have time to call.

"I hope all of you feel wonderful in your new clothes. Your bellies are full of the scrumptious food and I'm sure you all enjoyed the open bar. This has been quite the event, hasn't it? It only took the news of my death to summon you all here.

"Modern technology is wonderful, isn't it? With the help of a few hidden devices throughout the facility, I could hear all of you and your many conversations. Does that shock you?"

A low murmur could be heard throughout the room. Suddenly, each person could recall something they said that they would never want the matriarch of the family to hear. Cold fear crept into everyone's heart as they watched the old, hunched figure at the front of the room.

"Many of you had very interesting things to say. Some of the grandchildren spoke of the good times they enjoyed at my house. The pool, the parties, Easter egg hunts, and the games played at Christmas amongst yourselves seemed to top the list. I did not hear one word about how much I would be missed.

"But it was the conversations my own children had with their spouses that were of the utmost interest. I never really knew what each of you thought about me until just this moment. I'm very disappointed. And the scene you girls caused in the ladies' room was absolutely appalling. I'm so glad Kathy stood up to you.

"I was a good mother. Yes, I worked at the hospital when you were young. I came home bone tired and I needed my rest. I realize it was your father that helped with homework, took you to your activities, and attended every game and function you participated in. I was there, though.

"It was me that put together the family functions and bought the presents you all enjoyed. I was the one who remembered which cake was your favorite, and the preferred flavor of ice cream you enjoyed. Whether you like it or not, I was the heart of this family.

"That held true until Kathy became a member of this family. She began by helping me with the planning of the events, contributing her own lovely ideas, and making sure everything went off without a hitch. She was the one who organized the Easter egg hunts and the games at Christmas for the grandchildren.

"She quickly became the one I could count on. My mistake was in letting all of you know. For some reason, this caused a great deal of trouble. Perhaps it was my own fault. I did point out to all of you that she seemed to be much better at everything. She always dressed just right for each occasion. Her children were always clean and well fed when they came to my house. When I went to her house, I was waited on like a guest, in her well-kept and clean house. She was a wonderful hostess and her cooking was impeccable. Which is much more than I can say about my own daughters.

"Your father's funeral was the worst day of my life. I wasn't only burying the man I'd been married to for almost fifty years, but I witnessed behavior from my own daughters that put me to shame. You all went after Kathy as though she was the scum of the earth. It's little wonder she ended up in the mental ward when the day was done. You girls were cruel with the things you said and the accusations you hurled at her. She was at the hospice with me every day – where were you? She managed everything for me – could I count on any of you? But you turned her good deeds into something ugly. You picked apart everything she had ever done. You blamed her mental illness for anything and everything. You were heartless.

"Doug and she pulled away then. Kathy was sure I was at the center of the ring of women who wanted to persecute her for being a good wife, mother, and human being. Doug wanted to protect the woman he loved. Two of my grandchildren grew up as I watched from afar, and my heart broke.

"I had to watch my oldest daughter, Sylvia, marry another woman. It was difficult to accept this alternative lifestyle, and my heart broke when you decided to bring a child into the world through artificial insemination. I was ashamed at church, and I stopped including a newsletter with my Christmas cards. Your resentment of Kathy started when she and Doug married in the church--something you could never do.

"My middle daughter, Caressa, has been a sour and doleful woman for most of her adult life. It wasn't anyone else's choice to marry a man that would never amount to much. She resented everyone else's good fortune, and she especially envied Kathy everything she had. When Doug and Kathy built their new house, I thought her head would explode.

"Perhaps the biggest disappointment of all was my youngest child, Agnes. She has only herself to blame for her divorce. What man wants to come home every day to a filthy house and an unkempt wife?"

The old lady's eyes turned to stare into Agnes's. "Your boys were always poorly dressed in dirty clothes because you couldn't seem to get the laundry done, and you didn't look any better. I couldn't imagine how Kathy could manage her house, her job, and even went back to school, and you couldn't seem to clean your house while you stayed home all day. Every time I thought of you and your situation, I just shook my head in disgust."

Agnes burst into sobs, and her sons moved to comfort her. Sniffles could be heard from the other tables as each sibling absorbed their Mother's words. No words were spoken as the room collectively waited for the next onslaught.

"I've arranged for all of you to be here today so I could be sure everyone knew how I felt about each one of you. You will be happy to know you won't be expected to attend my real memorial service, and you don't have to worry about the reading of the will, either."

Motioning to the young man who still stood beside her, she waved him into the crowd. He moved forward as he retrieved a stack of envelopes from inside his jacket. He made his way to hand Jerry, Doug, Kathy, Sylvia, Caressa, and Agnes each the legal sized packet.

"Go ahead, open them. I want to see your reactions," the old lady goaded.

Gasps could be heard around the room. Kathy looked at the contents of her envelope and was surprised to see yet another cashier's check. This one was made out in the amount of a cool million dollars. Kathy looked up in shock. Before looking at the front of the room, she peaked a glance at what Doug pulled out of his envelope. He was holding another cashier's check for five-hundred thousand dollars.

Jane's eyes flickered from one face to the next. She was pleased with their reactions. Some were pleasantly surprised while others were in shock. It seemed that everything was in order.

Sitting back in her wheelchair, the family matriarch addressed her children. "In your hands, you are all holding your inheritance. Everything left in my estate will go towards supporting me until I do die, and whatever is remaining will go to charity. Each of you has received the amount I felt you deserved.

"Now that business is over, let's all get together and take our final family portrait."

Everyone looked at her incredulously. How on earth did she expect them to gather together and paste smiles on their faces? But, they knew she was resolute. The family photo would happen.

Kathy dreaded standing next to anyone but Doug. The photographer stepped forward and asked them to all gather on the few steps at the front of the room. They all needed to walk past Jane, and each one stopped to either embrace her or shake her hand. Each grandchild kissed her politely on the cheek, and she chucked each one of her great grandchildren under the chin as she pressed a silver dollar into each little fist.

Each of the couples lined up on the top step. Put in order from the oldest to the youngest, the siblings each looked at one another. Sylvia hissed at Caressa, "What did you get?"

"My check was for fifty-thousand, how about you?"

They each heard Agnes gasp as she listened to them. Turning to look at her, they watched as she mouthed, "Ten-thousand."

Sylvia wondered whether she should disclose the amount of her check or not. The sisters would love to hold it over her that she only received five-thousand dollars. Why had she received so little? And what, pray tell, was in Kathy's envelope? She wasn't even one of the Hamlin children; she was merely a daughter-in-law.

Doug and Jerry looked at one another over the heads of the sisters. Jerry seemed to be happy, so Doug wasn't really worried about the amount of his check. He only knew that he and Kathy were coming away with one point five million dollars.

After all the family members were assembled, the photographer took a few moments to make sure he could capture everyone within the lens of his camera. He called to the crowd, "Say cheese."

-------@>

A flash of light was all it took, and the photo session was over. Kathy looked to see Jane apparently asleep in her chair, and prepared herself to break up the reception. She needn't have worried as everyone rushed to their tables and gathered their things.

Sylvia and her family were the first to go. Without a word to anyone and only a glance at her sleeping mother, she walked out the door. Kathy wasn't sorry to see her leave.

Caressa and her family walked toward Kathy and Doug. Kathy prepared herself for the onslaught that was to come. "Well, I hope you're happy. This was quite the party, and we were all put in our place, weren't we? I always knew Mother liked you best, and it made me sick. The only thing good about this day, is that I know I'll never have to see your smug face ever again."

Agnes was still sobbing. Her hands were full of damp tissues, and she could barely speak. "Can I have a hug goodbye?" she asked. Doug reached out and gave her a bear hug. "Maybe we can get together sometime? I miss you both so much." Kathy nodded her head, and Agnes and her family were able to leave.

After their family left, Kathy and Doug were left alone in the room with Jane. The young man who had assisted her was waiting quietly at the door. As they walked towards her, Jane suddenly lifted her head and smiled at them.

"I had to fake being asleep, so I wouldn't have to deal with any of them. I refuse to suffer fools, and I'm sorry to say that’s what all of them are." She turned to Kathy and her eyes began to tear.

"Thank you so much for putting all of this together, dear. It was beautiful and only made ugly by the people who attended. I always knew I could count on you. I've missed you all these years, but I certainly understand why it had to be this way. I'm sorry for all of the pain I and my children caused you," she said as she began to sob.

"I'm leaving tomorrow for a world cruise. I want my last days to be full of beauty. I don't expect to return. Thank you for giving me a chance to lay eyes on the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Please be sure I get a copy of the family photo. I've left my address with you in your envelope."

She reached up to embrace Doug and she patted his back. "Please take good care of Kathy. I know you're a good husband, and I've marveled at the way you handled things. Your family is beautiful and you've built a good life for yourself. You and Kathy received the lion's share of my estate because you always made me proud. I forgive you for not being around these last fifteen years, you simply had no choice."

Reaching for Kathy's hand, Jane looked up into her face. "Thank you for your grace, dear. You tried to make my life a joy, and you were willing to honor me in death despite all the grief my family caused you. You are a remarkable woman, and I'm glad I knew you."

She motioned to the young man, and he wheeled her out of the room. Kathy and Doug just looked at one another. This had been the longest and strangest week of their lives. What could possibly be next?

-------@>

Doug smiled at Kathy. "We are millionaires. We can do many of the things we always wanted to. Who ever thought we would inherit anything? I thought I was written out of the will years ago. But you have quite the windfall – will you leave me now that you are an heiress?"

She pretended to think about it, and then smiled at him. "After all these years and all this madness, I don't think I can live without you."

Hands clasped, they walked out of the banquet room, and into their future.

Author Notes image of antique stamp from Google images

The family dynamics of this dysfunctional crowd remind me a great deal of my in-laws. My fondest wish would be to play out this scene in real life.

I hope you have enjoyed the saga nearly as much as I had fun writing it.

Until next time, dear readers...

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