Chapter 1
“Da, Da, look at what I caught,” Zack said as he rushed to Eli.
“All by yourself?” she asked. She noticed Zack was soaked from head to toe.
“Yes, Da. Just ask Mitch.”
Mitch grinned. “All by himself, even going in after it when he thought the fish was getting away.”
“Maybe you should teach him how to land a fish so he doesn’t get soaked every time.”
“We will work on that next. But Zack did catch him all on his own.”
“Good job, Son. Will you and Mitch have enough for us to cook for supper?”
“Yes, Da. I think we will.”
“I’ll set up the cooker and whip up some hushpuppy mix,” Eli told them. “Enough for your parents to join us?”
“That shouldn’t be a problem,” Mitch answered.
“Are you cold?”
“No, Da. The water felt good.”
“Listen to Mitch. He’ll show you how to pull the fish on land so you don’t have to get wet every time.” She looked at Mitch. “If he starts turning blue, send him in the house to change.”
“Would it be okay if Zack and I go to town soon and buy him some waders?”
“I think that’s an excellent idea.” Eli turned toward Zack. “What is your sister doing?”
“Icing a cake that she and Mommy made for supper,” he answered.
Eli smiled at her son. Twelve years had gone by so fast, and she was amazed by how both twins had grown. They were both excellent students, and she was pleased they were experiencing all aspects of life, like baking and fishing.
“That sounds yummy.” Eli stood and hugged him. “Go catch us a bunch more, and I’ll call Uncle Mark and Aunt Laura about supper.” Zack turned to follow Mitch. “Wait. I need a picture of your first catch.” She lifted her phone and snapped a photo.
“Will you get one with Mitch and me, Da?”
Eli nodded. “Kneel down next to him, please, Mitch.” Eli took a photo of the two smiling boys. “Now, get back to fishing.” She grinned.
“Yes, Da,” Zack said, and returned to the creek.
“Thanks, Mitch.”
“For what? You know I’m having as much fun as he is. We’ll catch up a mess, and he can help me clean them.”
†
Eli walked inside to find Mack and Whit in the kitchen. Mack sat at the table frosting a cake. Eli eyed the can of frosting.
“Don’t even think about it, Eli Fortner,” Whit warned.
Mack and Eli looked at Whit. “What, Mommy?”
“Da was about to steal a taste of your frosting,” Whit replied.
“And ruin my pretty cake? I don’t think so, Da.”
Eli held up one finger. “Just one little swipe?”
“No, Da. If there’s any left in the container, you can have some, but not until I finish.”
Eli frowned. “That doesn’t taste as good.”
“You are so silly, Da.” Mack smiled.
“I can’t wait to try your cake. Do you want to see what your brother is doing?” Eli said and pulled out her phone. She showed them the photos of Zack with his first fish.
“How come he’s wet?” Whit asked.
“He hadn’t learned how to land a fish and took off after it when he thought it might get away.”
“Good grief.”
“He’s okay. He’s having a blast learning to fish with Mitch. Mitch wants to take him to town for some waders.”
“That’s not a bad idea,” Whit answered.
“Do you have plans for supper other than that beautiful cake? Our son wants a fish fry.”
Eli pulled open the pantry to start pulling out ingredients for hushpuppies.
“I hadn’t really decided.”
“Will you toss a salad and make some baked beans? I’m going to invite Mark and Laura to join us.”
“I think we can handle that.”
“I’ll mix some hushpuppies and get the cooker set up. It will be a while before the guys have enough fish for supper.”
“Could I entice you with tomato sandwiches for lunch?”
“With potato chips?” Eli asked.
“I believe we can fill that order,” Whit said. She kissed Eli on the way to the refrigerator.
“I’ll help you make sandwiches, Mommy,” Mack told Whit.
“We have to find a safe spot for that cake first,” Whit teased her.
“Please tell me that’s a yellow cake with chocolate frosting.”
Mack smiled. “Your favorite, Da.”
“Her first one all on her own,” Whit praised.
“Two firsts today. May I have a photo of you with that delicious-looking cake?”
“Yes, Da, but no tasting. There’s a bit of frosting left,” Mack said. She brought her a spoonful. “Do you want some, Mommy?”
“No, honey. You two knock it out. Maybe it will satisfy Da’s sweet tooth for a while.”
Eli looked at Mack, and they chuckled.
“Did I miss something?”
“No, Mommy. Da and I talked about your addiction to cinnamon rolls when you were pregnant. She said it was lucky one of us wasn’t named Cinnamon.”
Whit cocked an eye at Eli.
“I might have mentioned something like that.”
“First off, it wasn’t an addiction. It was a craving that pregnant mothers experience. It could have been something really odd, like sardines and ice cream,” she answered after a pause.
“Darling, I love you, but I might have had to draw a line there,” Eli said.
“No way, Da. You would have bought her anything she wanted.”
“She’s got you pegged,” Whit told Eli.
“Yeah, she’s got me there.” Eli nodded. “I love your Mommy so much I would have climbed to the moon for a chunk of cheese if she wanted one.”
“There’s no cheese on the moon.” Mack laughed.
“It’s getting cheesy in there,” Zack said with a laugh. He had come in for drinks for him and Mitch and caught the tail end of the conversation.
“You, fish,” Eli said. “We are having a girls’ moment.”
“Yes, Da.”
†
Eli mixed up the hushpuppies and placed the bowl in the fridge. “I’ll set the cooker up and watch the boys fish until lunch is ready.” She kissed Mack and Whit on the cheeks and left the house. Cruz trotted along beside her. Her once shiny blue coat was peppered with gray, and she didn’t play as long or hard as she used to. Molly had gotten a respiratory infection a few years ago, and even Doc Loren’s best medicine couldn’t save her. Cruz was as faithful as ever and followed Eli wherever she went. Tears came to Eli’s eyes when she thought about the day Cruz would no longer be with her as they walked across the yard.
“Da, are you all right?” Zack asked.
“Yes, son, just having a sad moment,” Eli responded.
“Do you need me?”
“No. It will pass, but thank you.”
“Love you, Da.”
“I love you, too. I’ll come over soon to watch you fish.”
†
Mark was coming down the path when Eli finished setting up the cooker. “I hear we are having a fish fry for supper.”
“Yes, we are if the boys catch enough.”
“Is that ever in question with Mitch around?” Mark asked.
“No, he’s never failed us, and he’s teaching Zack to fish. He landed, or should I say, caught his first fish a while ago.” She pulled out her phone to show Mark the photo.
“Went for a swim, did he?” Mark chuckled when he saw a soaked Zack.
“Yeah, Mitch forgot to teach how to land a fish, and he was worried it would get away.”
“I’m going over to watch them for a bit if you want to join me?”
“I thought I’d come to help clean the fish. Laura has gone to town for a few groceries and items to make her banana pudding.”
“Mack made her first cake for supper tonight, but we can never have too many desserts. She and Whit are making tomato sandwiches for lunch if you’d care to join us.”
“I’m sure I could be convinced to eat one or two,” Mark replied. “I need a break from the forge since my partner has decided to fish.”
“He’s promised Zack they would fish today,” Eli said.
“We all needed a break. The forge is doing great, but I can’t keep up with all the orders I’m getting.”
“That’s a good problem to have, and your customers will wait as long as it takes to get your knives.”
“That’s a blessing, at least.”
“I’m very glad the forge is doing so well and you are happy.”
“I’ve no one to complain about if the work doesn’t get done, but I’m motivated to keep the business going.”
“Do you think Mitch will take over the business one day?”
“I think he’ll keep working at the John Deere dealership a few days a week to keep a steady income, but I hope one day, he will take over full time, and I can be his gopher.”
“Mitch loves it almost as much as you do.”
“Yeah, he does, and he’s gotten excellent in the forge.”
Eli finished adding the oil and covered the cooker. “What have you heard from Brad lately?”
“Well, he hasn’t landed in the brig anywhere yet. I think joining the Rangers was precisely what he needed. He grew up quick after running a few extra hours.” Mark chuckled.
“Does it worry you with him being in the military in this day and age?”
Mark shrugged. “I worry about both of them, but they are doing something they love and are good at.” He chuckled. “Brad was always a bit of a firebug growing up, and he loved camo gear. Demolitions and making things go boom is right up his alley.”
“Do you have any idea where he is right now?”
“Either the Middle East or South America,” Mark said. “That’s as much information as I can get out of him when he calls.”
“Is he coming home on leave anytime soon?”
“I think he’s got a week off in July. He will be home for a weekend in May when Hayden graduates from Western.”
“I can’t get over how fast kids grow. I remember when Mitch and Brad both had braces and were awkward teens.”
“Just don’t blink. The twins will be grown before we know it.”
Eli ran a hand through her hair. “Don’t I know it? They have almost finished their high school curriculum and will be taking some college courses online after next school year.”
“They are only twelve,” Mark declared.
“Their test scores are off the charts. Even Whit is impressed by how quickly they learn.”
Laughter from Mitch and Zack grabbed their attention. “He is so good with the twins. He’ll make a fine dad one day.”
“He loves those two like they were his,” Mark admitted. “I think he’s saving everything he can to buy a ring to propose to Jessie. She finishes her Master’s degree this year. I’m hoping she will go for her Doctorate next. He also wants to ask you about them building a house on the property and keeping the tiny home as a playhouse.”
“That would be awesome. Of course, he can. I’d love it if both boys decided to call this home.” Eli smiled at her brother. “You know, my investments have done well. What would you think about Whit and me building a house for him as a wedding gift?”
Mark shook his head. “He needs to learn to save up for things he wants. I don’t have a problem with your generous gift, but he needs to save at least ten thousand for a down payment. You can gift it back to him if you choose, but he needs to understand how hard he must work to make his dreams come true.”
Eli nodded. “One day at a time. Let’s go see how the fishermen are coming along.”
Eli and Mark walked to the firepit and sat beside the creek to watch the boys fish.
“Zack is catching on fast,” Mark said when he hooked another fish. He chuckled when Zack reeled the fish to the bank. “He’s learned to land them, too.”
†
Eli smiled when she saw Whit approach. “Will you tear your son and nephew from the creek to come and eat?”
“Yes, we will. We’ll bring the boys inside in a few. Just one more fish each.” Eli grinned.
“Is Laura joining us?” Whit asked.
Mark shook his head. “She ran into town for a few groceries and fixings for her banana pudding to complement Mack’s cake.
“She’s very proud of herself,” Whit said.
“As she should be,” Eli said. “I still can’t ice a cake.”
Whit chuckled. “Because you eat more of the frosting than you put on the cake,” she teased.
“Got him,” Zack called out.
“Okay, we’ll go collect them,” Mark said. “They can finish after lunch if we need more fish.”
Eli and Mark walked over to the boys to look inside their buckets. “You two have been busy.” Mark smiled at the boys.
Mitch nodded and smiled at Eli. “Would it be okay if I invited Miss Flora to join us? We don’t see her much since Mr. Henry passed.”
Eli smiled at him. “That would be nice. You’ll need to go get her and take her home.”
“Jessie has already offered to play taxi,” Mitch replied.
“Call her, but come eat some lunch after you wash up. You can add to those buckets after you eat. I have a feeling we’ll need a few more fish.”
“Thanks, Da. I’m having so much fun with Mitch.”
“I told you I could teach you to fish.” Mitch placed his rod next to his bucket, and Zack followed his lead. “What’s for lunch anyhow?”
“Fresh tomato sandwiches and chips,” Eli answered. “We’re going light to save room for a big supper. Mack made her first cake, and your mom is bringing banana pudding.”
“Oh, heck yeah,” Mitch said.
“Y’all go wash up in the laundry room. You’re too fishy to come into the house.”
“Yes, Da,” Zack said and punched Mitch. “Race ya.” He took off across the yard.
“See you in a bit,” Mitch said. “I’m coming after you. Better run quick.”
Cruz was stretched out on the porch. She sat up and barked at the commotion.
“It’s okay, baby girl. Just the boys playing,” Eli told her.
“She misses Molly, doesn’t she?” Mark asked.
“Yeah, she’s slowing down, and it breaks my heart to think of a time without her.”
“You’ve got time with her still. She’s just not the frisbee-catching crazy pup she once was. She’s still got a lot of love for you.”
“Cruz is a great friend. Always has been.”
Zack rushed out and hugged Eli. “Love you, Da.”
“I love you too, son. Where’s Mitch?”
“Being a slow poke,” Zack answered. He leaned down to hug Cruz’s neck. “I love you, too, Cruz.”
Cruz licked his face causing Zack to laugh. When Mitch arrived, they walked into the house.
†
“Would you look at how pretty that is,” Mitch said. “I can hardly wait to taste it.”
Eli loved the smile on Mack’s face. “Me too. Is it suppertime?”
“No, Da.” Mack smiled.
“I’m going to invite Miss Flora if that’s okay with you,” Mitch told Whit.
“That would be great. We haven’t seen much of her lately.”
“I’m going to step outside and call her so she doesn’t make plans for supper. Jessie will pick her up and take her home.”
Whit waited until he walked outside. “That was sweet of him to think of Miss Flora.”
“It was. All Mitch’s idea, too. I think he misses Mr. Henry, and she’s a great reminder for him.”
“He will be smiling down at us. Are they getting close to having enough fish?” Whit asked.
“Close, but I’m sure they want to fish a couple more hours. Zack is doing well. Keeping in stride with Mitch fish for fish.”
Mitch walked back in, grinning. “Set another plate.”
“Good job, Son.”
“Mitchy, can you teach me to fish?” Mack asked.
“Mitchy?” Mark said.
“She’s the only one that can call me that,” Mitch replied.
Mack cocked her head at Mark. “He’s my cousin Mitchy, Uncle Mark.”
“I think it’s cute,” Whit replied.
“Thanks, Love Muffin.” Mitch chuckled.
“That’s what you called Mommy when you first met, right?” Zack said.
“It is, and it still fits her perfectly,” Mitch said, kissing Whit’s cheek after she handed him a plate of sandwiches. “I would love to teach you to fish, Mack. You can’t outfish me yet, though.” He winked.
“You’ve got a head start on me, Mitchy,” Mack quickly reminded him.
“Probably a good thing as fast as you two learn.” He smiled as he sat beside Mack. “Will that get me a taste of your cake faster?”
“Nope. Da gets the first piece since it’s her favorite,” Mack teased and bit into a chip.
“What if it’s my favorite, too?”
“I’m baking you brownies tomorrow, Mitchy. Those are your favorite.”
Mitch looked at Whit. “Thank you for the next generation of brownie bakers.” He smiled at Mack. “You can practice on me any time you want.”
“Deal,” Mack said and raised her cup to his.
†
“Y’all get back to fishing, and we’ll clean up and come watch you fish,” Eli told them. “My rod is hanging up at the end of the porch.”
“Oh no,” Mitch cried, lifting his hand to his forehead.
“What, Mitchy?” Mack asked.
“Your da is letting you use her magic stick to fish with. Zack, we’re doomed, I tell ya.” Mitch laughed.
“Magic?” Mack asked.
“I used to outfish your cousins Mitchy and Brad with that rod. You will be lucky with her,” Eli promised. “I can feel it.”
“Let’s go.” Mack reached for Mitch’s hand.
Mark watched them leave. “I’ll clean up here. Go watch your children fish, and I’ll join you soon.”
Eli reached for Whit’s hand. “I think I hear our loungers calling us.”
“Thanks, Mark.”
“Thanks for making us a good lunch, Whit.”
†
Eli stretched out beside Whit as they watched the twins and Mitch fish. Mitch was patient with Mack, who hung on every word he spoke. It was apparent how much she wanted to learn to fish, and she squealed loudly when she hooked her first.
“She obviously learned from Zack’s first attempt,” Whit said as they watched Mack reel the fish onto dry land.
“We may be buying two sets of waders,” Eli said as she smiled at the kids.
Mitch helped her take the large fish off the hook, and she ran over to show them her catch. “I believe it’s even bigger than Zack’s,” Eli whispered.
“It doesn’t matter, Da. We both have caught fish, and it’s fun,” she answered.
“You have the magic stick,” Eli reminded her. “Treat her well.”
“Yes, Da.” Mack took her fish and dropped it into a bucket.
“Wait, I need a picture of your first fish,” Eli said and snapped a few photos.
When Mack returned to the creek, Eli looked at Whit. “Mark thinks Mitch is getting ready to pop the question to Jessie. He’s been saving everything he can to buy a ring. Mark says he’ll ask us about him building a house on his spot and keeping the tiny home for a playhouse. I’d like to offer a new home to them as a wedding present.”
“It would make a perfect wedding present for them. We’d love to have both boys and their families join us here.” Whit reached over to cover Eli’s hand. “What do you think?”
“My investments have done well, but Mark wants Mitch to use ten thousand as a down payment to teach him the value of working hard to reach your dreams. We could always return it to them for furnishings or other household goods.”
“I like that,” Whit said. “Maybe Brad will settle down one day soon, too.”
“Don’t count on that. I think Brad may make a career in the military. So that’s another eighteen years or so.”
“You never know when he might get a better offer.” Whit chuckled.
“That’s true.”
Mark walked over and sat beside them. “How are they doing?”
Whit pointed to the creek. “See for yourself?” Whit said as all three hauled in fish.
“Mack caught on quick,” Mark stated.
“She’s a quick learner and didn’t make the mistake her brother did. She landed her first catch perfectly.” Eli smiled. “Mitch has been patient with both of them.”
“You know he loves those kids and fishing, so what do you expect?” Mark teased.
“Let’s give them another hour to fish, and we can start cooking.”
“I’ve got the beans ready to go into the oven,” Whit said. “I can be your gopher if needed,” she volunteered.
“You could set up my cooking pans and supplies for me. Mack can go back and forth for us while the boys clean the catch. She can help keep everyone in drinks.”
“Fish scraps in the garden?” Mark asked.
“Yes, unless you need some.”
“I think I will have Mitch take a couple of buckets to help enrich the soil.”
“He and Zack can take them all to your plot in a Gator and scatter them while we cook.”
†
Miss Flora was a bit teary-eyed when she arrived with Jessie. She and Mr. Henry had shared so many good memories on the mountain. “Let me know more in advance, and I’ll whip something up to bring,” she told Whit.
“This was kind of thrown together at the last moment, but I don’t think anyone will go hungry.”
“What can I do to help?”
“Why don’t you and Jessie set the tables for us. It’s such a beautiful day. It would be a shame to eat inside,” Whit told them.
“It shouldn’t be long before it’s time to eat, based on the heaping pans Eli and Mark are filling,” Laura said. “We can start carrying out the other dishes.”
†
“That was a lovely meal, and thank you for sharing your first fish with me,” Flora told the twins.
“I believe we’ve found our next generation of fishermen,” Mitch added.
“Fisherwomen, too, Mitchy,” Mack corrected him.
“I stand corrected. Fisherwomen, too,” Mitch answered.
“You two keep fishing. I’d love to have a few of your beautiful filets for my freezer.”
“We will, Miss Flora,” Zack said. “I think we’ve both learned a lot from Mitch today.”
“Mitch is an excellent teacher. My husband loved fishing with him and Brad.” Miss Flora smiled at Mitch. “Together, they kept our freezer full of fish.”
“We will catch more for you this weekend, and Mitchy can take us to deliver them,” Mack said.
“I sure would like that. I’ll send some banana pudding back with y’all.”
“You, My Lady, have a deal,” Mitch said. “We’ll see you Saturday afternoon. Do you have freezer bags?”
“I do. I just need some fish to fill them.”
“How about we harvest some fresh vegetables for you, too, Miss Flora?” Eli asked.
“We have plenty and can send at least a dozen eggs your way. The hens are laying well,” Whit added.
“I’ll never pass on fresh vegetables and eggs,” Miss Flora said.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.