Devotion

Twisted devotion lives in the heart of a young man desperately trying to fit in. His whole life is centered around one girl, but things are starting to look bleak for his love. Or is it?

Devotion

 

Jennifer was beautiful. She was gorgeous. She was a true pleasure to look at, and everyone knew it. Her parents, her friends, her exs, everyone. Ask anyone living in Oaken Hills and they would agree, Jennifer Thorton was beautiful. Her athletic frame was suported by fabulous legs, and at the top, were her smiling blue eyes, with her little nose, crowned with sweet honey blonde locks. But she was more than that; Jennifer was also kind, and smart. She often volunteered at Oaken Hills' animal shelter, Painted Paws. She got good grades, and tutored younger students. Jennifer was beautiful inside and out. And Gary knew it.

Gary was, in comparson with Jennifer Thorton, anything but beautiful. He had thin, dark hair, and a face that was a little bit too round to match his tall, lanky body. His nose was crooked, and he had little chin to balence it out. The only physically beautiful things about Gary Widdles were his eyes. His eyes were miraculously green. They seemed to go on indefintely, like green forrests, waiting to be discovered. However, not many people had a chance to see those wonderous eyes, due to Gary always looking down, too scared to make eye contact with the other high school students. It wasn't the attendees of Oaken Hills High were especially frightening, just that Gary was especially frightened.

Growing up, Gary had been bullied quite a bit, for various reasons. At school he was mocked, and tormented, resulting in a lonely childhood. His homelife was not much better. His mother had been known as a tramp before she died. Gary was five when he attended her funeral. His father was loud, brash, and drunk. After his wife died, Arnold Widdles had little consciousness of his surroundings, or the fact hat his son still asked for bedtime stories. Arnold absolutly refused to drive or even enter a car, after Marla's crash. The only escape Gary ever had, was his grandmother.

Mable Johnson baked. It was her passion. Cakes, cookies, bread and brownies. Mable baked it all. And Gary ate it all. He loved to watch his grandmother bake; The smells, the sounds, and the delicious result. When Gary visited his grandma, he would eat to his heart's content, (A pleasure rarely offered at home) but when he left, he was still as scrawny as before. Every summer Gary spent his vacation at Mable's.

Mable was the only one who paid any kind of positive attention to Gary, and because of that, Gary loved her. Not the kind of way he loved his father, the love that had to be there. Gary loved her like a mother, a best friend, and a favorite teacher, all in one. Which, is not very surprising, since she easily filled all of those roles. When Gary turned eleven, he moved in with Mable. It is still his favorite birthday.

On his fourteenth birthday, Gary received all kinds of lovely school supplies from Mable. "High school is a difficult and wonderful time" She told him. "I think this year will be the year you blossom.". Gary smiled, thankful for the confidence she held in him. "Thank you, Mable. I think you're right."

On his first day of highschool, Gary saw Jennifer Thorton for the first of many times. In previous years, Jennifer had attended a privite school, and lived outside of Oaken Hills, where Gary would never have known she existed. But as he stepped inside the excited school's doors, he caught his first glimpse of Jennifer.

She was standing by the science lab, talking to Mr. Grunswell, the biology teacher. Gary was stunned. As he looked at her, this new, bubbly girl, his heart raced. He had no idea why. He didn't even know her. But his heart raced all the same. Without realising it, Gary stepped out of the entry way, and up against the wall. He smiled shyly to hismeslf as he observed thier conversation, until he was distracted.

Distracted could mean many things: Hearing a loud noise, seeing something out of the ordinary, even having a sudden itch. But, none of those things distracted Gary Widdles. What distracted Gary Widdles, was a swift and literal kick in the rear. This unwelcome distracting came from Camron Michaels, and his older brother, Jimmy.

Camron had never cared for Gary, saying he was "Too weird" and "A real creep." Jimmy, although never having met Gary before, agreed with his brother. To make right those opinionated wrongs, physical and verbal humilation were put into play.

The result of this particular humiliation was a loud yelp. Loud enough for Jennifer and Mr. Grunswell, along with most of the other kids in the rambunctious hallway to look over. Camron and Jimmy suddenly realised this was neither the time nor place for their distraction. Surely the thought of escape crossed their minds, but before any kind of evacuation plan could be determinded, Mr. Grunswell was already making his way through the students to see what had caused the ruckus.

When he arrived, all three parties were briefly questioned, and the offenders were taken to the principal's office. As the Michaels brothers were taken away, Gary looked up to see a surprising sight. That girl was approaching him. She was coming right to him. He tried desperatly to think of something to say, but his mind was unfortunatly blank.

"Are you alright?" She asked. Gary nodded, moving his mouth but lacking the words he was looking for. "I've heard Jimmy's kind of an a*s." She said. "Pretty crappy was to start off high school, huh?" Again, Nodding. "Would you mind if I walked you to your first class? I'm Jennifer, by the way." "Gary." Finally, something! "Nice to meet you, Gary! What's your first class?" He showed her the list of classes and times Mable had made him. "Oh, English! Me too! Come on, it's over here..." She trailed of as she started walking down the hall. Eagerly, Gary followed, tripping every few steps, but following her all the same.

The next three years followed the style of that first day. Jimmy graduated, Camron humiliated, Jennifer guided, and Gary followed. Jennifer became immensly popular, among both the student body and the teachers. Her kind heart, clever mind, and astounding beauty seemed to grow with each passing semester. As for Gary's "Blossoming" He maintained perfect grades, and made not one, but two friends. Jennifer, of course, being the first, and Ash the second.

Ash was an out cast, like Gary. But unlike Gary, he was very short. He had neatly trimmed flaming red hair, and a good dashing of freckles across his cheeks and nose, where his fragile glasses were always perched. Ash's full name was Ashley Englebert Snider. But calling him that would result in a firm punch to the shoulder, (or where ever was most easily reached).

The two misfits and the popular girl became close. Closer than most people would believe. They would study together, they saw movies together, sometimes they ate together at lunch. Gary and Ash would attend Jenny's track meets, and she would always take them out for a treat afterwards. Their friendship was everything they wanted it to be, and they all remained close, regardless from scorn from people outside their little group.

Outside of the trio, Jennifer had some girlfriends, who she would go shopping with and have sleepovers. She dated a few guys over the years, usually from the track team. They were attractive, sure, but none of them were good enough. Not for Jennifer. Maybe for her silly "gal pals", but not even all of them combined were good enough for Jennifer, thought Gary.

Ash and Gary had a few stay overs, sometimes spending up to a week together. They only lived a few blocks apart, so they hung out often. Mable loved Ash, and Ash loved the warm, cinnimon smelling kitchen that produced his favorite treats. Ash's parents were nice, but they refused to call him anything but "Ashley".

When Ash slept over, he and Gary talked about all kinds of things. Classmates, food, Jennifer, teachers, girls, typical teenage boy things. When discussing girls, the boys would talk about who was pretty, who was bitchy, among other opinions. But neither speaker was interested in any of the girls who came up. During their junior year, a new topic was revealed.

"What do you think about... Guys?" Asked Ash. Gary considered it. "I don't know, I mean, guys are cool." Ash stared up at the ceiling. "But I mean, more than that." Gary propped himself up and looked at Ash, but his questioning gaze was avioded. Ash continued, "What do you think of... Guys with other guys?" Gary laid back down. "You mean, like, gays?" "Well, yeah." Ash remained motionless as Gary answered. "I think love is love, doesn't really mater who." Ash smiled. "Me too."

Gary never told anyone, not even Mable. But he had a feeling she knew, and maybe had known for a long time. Ash didn't tell Jennifer, but he made subtle hints, and by the end of the year, she had caught on. They didn't tell anyone else, because being a weirdo is one thing, but being a weirdo and a f*g was another.

By the start of their senior year, Ash met Jamie, Jennifer was dating Tony, and Gary watched from afar. Jennifer had tried to introduced him to a few of her friends, and a few girls who were a bit nerdy. But Gary only had eyes for one girl, and she controlled his heart. Even if she didn't know it. Gary gave her complements for no reason, he gave her elaborate and well thought out gifts each year, He gave her flowers and chocolate after each break up. What more did she want? He had given her everything she asked for, and so much more. Didn't she see the way he looked at her? The way he followed her every move with his eyes?

Half way through the school year, the classrooms filled with anticipation for the last few months of high school. Finals, prom, and graduation were all within sight, each having it's own pros and cons. For the trio, finals we not much of a concern. None of their grades had wavered below an A, and they had study dates set up twice a week until finals. Graduation wasn't much of an concern either, all of the plans having been made already. The biggest concern for them and most of the school, was prom.

"So, are you going?" Ash asked as he sat down on Gary's bed. Jennifer looked up, "Oh, of course. Tony said he would take me. We're gonna get matching colors and everything!" Ash nodded to Gary. " What about you?" "No one to take." Gary shrugged. "What about Sophie? She said she had a good time with you." Jennifer said. "Sophie's nice and all, but I don't want to take her to prom. She's not really my type." Said Gary as he reached over and grabbed a handful of chips. "Gary, I've never heard you say there was a girl you liked!" "So?" "So, I don't think you have 'A type'." Gary shrugged and brushed his hair out of his eyes. "Oh, he has a type." They looked at Ash, both with pleading eyes. "Ash, you have to tell me." Jennifer begged. Ash smiled, "No I don't." "You do! You brought it up. You can't bring that kind of thing up and then not tell me!" She flopped dramaticly across the floor. Gary and Ash shared a look, but nothing more was said on the matter.

When the day came to go out and purchase the finery they were to wear, the trio went together, accompanied by Tony and Mable. Ash and Gary had decided to go, and just hang out. But unfortunatly, that meant a few hours of trying on suits. The boys went first, with the help of Mable and Jennifer. Ash got a mint suit, while Gary went with a simple gray jacket, with black pants. Tony decided on a black and purple suit, to match Jennifer's favorite color.

And then, it was Jennifer's turn. She looked around for every purple dress she could find. After sorting through colors, there were three dresses left. The first was discarded, because it was, quite honestly, rather ugly. Jennifer tried the second dress, was lovely. It was a mermaid dress, and it fit her beautifully.

"Babe, looks great." Tony caterwalled. Jennifer turned to Ash and Gary. Ash smiled, and Gary shrugged. "Don't you like it, Gary?" Gary shivered. He still loved when she said his name. "It looks nice" Was the halfhearted answer. "Well, I'll try on the other one." She smiled. "Babe, don't even bother, this one is the bomb." Tony insisted.

When Jennifer came out of the changing room wearing a purple ballgown, the whole room went quiet for Gary. As she walked out, she walked slowly, floating across the carpet. She stepped up onto the veiwing pedestal, but the pedestal Gary held her on was much higher than that. Gary couldn't breathe. His eyes couldn't look away. She was perfect.

"Well?" Jennifer looked at her veiwers. "Babe, nah, the other one, for sure." Said Tony stubbornly, as Ash gave her a thumbs up and a wide grin. She looked to Gary. "Wow" He whispered. "Jen..." She smiling and started to blush. "You really like it?" "Babe, what are you talking about? I told you, I like the other one. Seriously, pay attention." Tony looked around, bored. Jennifer looked at him, and sighed.

She got the mermaid dress, after a good deal of insisting from Tony. After leaving the dress to have it altered, Jennifer asked if everyone wanted to go get dinner together, but it seemed Tony was only interested in a dinner for two. As the friends bid each other farewell, Jennifer hugged Gary tightly. "I loved the dress." He whispered. "I know, I'm sorry." She whispered back. As their embrace ended, Gary shrugged it off. "It's fine. It'll make someone else really happy."

It's true. That dress did make someone else very, very happy. For the following few weeks, everything was about prom. If another subject was brought up, it always went back to prom. "How's Jamie?" Gary asked. "He's... Good." Ash hadn't been able to see Jamie very much since they met. Jamie lived in Johnsville, and neither his or Ash's parents knew about their relationship. Gary asked "Is he going to prom?" "No, he said that he wasn't really interested in that scene. But we'll probably meet up after I'm done." Gary knew Ash was disapointed he couldn't take his boyfriend to prom, but it was for the best.

When the day finally came, everyone decided to meet at Jennifer's house, so they could all get ready and arrive together. Jennifer's mother was helping her get ready, and Tony insisted on dressing himself, so that left Ash and Gary to assist each other as best they could. When shirts were buttoned, jackets donned, and ties straightened, the boys when down to wait in the lounge.

When Jennifer finally came down, she looked radient. Her hair was done up, her make up was spot on, and the dress fit her like a glove. She looked like an angel. While she was floating down the staircase, the moment was predictably ruined by Tony, who decided clapping would be appropriate here.

After a bit of struggling, scootching and tucking, the trio, (Now a foursome) were all piled into the limosine rented by Jennifer's parents. As they drove away, Gary could see Jennifer's mother dab her eyes. He wondered if his own mother would have done the same. Mable had cried, as he left with his suit; But, Mable always cried at times like these. She was a strong person, but she showed her emotion easily; Something Gary had yet to learn.

The ride was mostly accompanied by Tony, talking about this and that. He didn't really need a subject to talk about, as long as he was talking. Gary didn't like Tony. And Ash didn't especially care for him either. But long ago, they had both decided that if he made Jenny happy, they would accept him.

As the limo pulled up to the door, Gary was the first out, followed by Ash, and then Jennifer. He held his hand out, and she thankfully took it. It gave Gary a rush of excitment, and not even the distasteful look fromTony could diminish it. He helpfully led her out of the car, and into the school, before Tony could catch up.

Inside, the school was teeming with excitement. Brightly colored gowns raced about the halls, and the click-clack of high heels was everywhere. Boys walked their dates around, strutting about like the proud peacocks they were. Girls huddled in groups, giggling and gossiping in the way that teenage girls do. But Gary didn't care about any of that. All he cared about, was Jennifer.

Hadn't that always been the case? Everything he did was for Jennifer. Everything was in her best interest. If only she would notice. If only she would understand that she meant so much to him. If only.

While prom was under way, Jennifer was whisked away to the dance floor, by her impatient beau. Ash and Gary stood where all of the guys without dates stood: By the back wall. They talked, and watched the dancers. The slow dancers, the group dancers, the raunchy dancers, all of them. But mostly, Gary watched Jennifer dance. How lighty her feet trailed across the floor; How easily her body moved to the music; How sweetly she smiled. Gary adored that smile.

Suddenly, Tony tired of dancing. He told Jennifer he wanted to go talk to his friends, and that she should talk to hers. Then he walked away. Although puzzled, Jennifer didn't seem overly concerned as she rejoined her pals.

"Are you two having fun?" She asked. The boys nodded, sarcasticly saying how much they loved hanging out with the walls. Jennifer laughed. "You could join in on the group dances!" She tempted. But it didn't seem likely to happen, so they just talked.

Soon, Jennifer realised that Tony had been gone for over a half an hour. She excused herself, and asked around, if anyone had seen him. Tabby Miller said she had, over by the lockers. Thanking her, Jennifer went out into the hall way. She searched, looking into the classrooms and down the adjacent halls, until she found Tony. But when she found Tony, she wished she had not.

Tony was in the algebra room. With Vicki White. But Vicki White was missing something: Her dress. Her matching purple dress. Jennifer couldn't believe her eyes. She threw open the door, hoping the window in the door had caused some bizzare, optical illusion. Unfortunatly, this was not the case. The only thing she could do, was run.

Jennifer ran, as far and as fast as she could. She ran to the cafeteria, where the dance was being held. She ran right into Gary, who was walking around the room. Gary caught her, and seeing her tears, urgently asked what was the matter. Jennifer's words were only partailly formed, due to her on coming sobs. Together, Gary and Ash walked Jennifer back out to the hall, to find out what was wrong.

After hearing the tale, both boys were quite upset. The thought of anyone betraying their beautiful Jen was unthinkable. They asked if she wanted to leave, and go somewhere else. But Jennifer was determind to stay. "We will stay," She said through drying tears, "And we will all dance together. We will not look at or speak to either of them and we will enjoy ourselves. Understood?" The boys nodded, willing to do anything to please their injured comrade.

And so, that is what they did. They danced all night, and into the morning. They spoke to no one, and they enjoyed every moment of it. When at last, they could dance no more, they called the limo. They didn't bother to tell Tony, becuase after such unspeakable acts, he was no longer invited to join them. The Limo dropped Jennifer off first, and then Ash and Gary. Gary decided to just walk the rest of the way home.

The next day, everyone was over at Gary's house. Mable was out shoppping for antiques, so Gary made grilled cheese and tomato soup for his friends. As they sat around the television, Gary thought of everything that had happened last night. He regreted nothing. He hoped Jennifer could be happy, now.

Suddenly, an urgent news update came on. "This just in," Said the anchor, "Teen boy found dead in the woods outside the high school." They gasped, waiting for more. "Young Anthony James Gilbert was found in the woods this morning, dead. Police say that Gilbert died, when he tripped and fell down a hill, hitting his head numorous times." "Oh my god..." Jennifer looked pale. As pale as the picture of Tony. Her hands were shaking. "Large amounts of alcohol were found in his stomach, leading police to believe he was heavily intoxicated." Everyone in the room was pale, now. Jennifer was in tears, her whole body now shaking.

Ash moved down onto the floor, to hold her. As soon as his arms were around her, the sobs became audible. She cried for the rest of the day, in Ash and Gary's arms. They all cried. When an elderly person dies, It's sad, but not unexpected. But when someone your own age dies, it's sudden. It's like you think it might be a prank, a big elaborate prank. And you expect to see then, next time you're in school. But you don't, you never see them again. All you have are memories.

For the next month, Tony was on the news quite a bit. The news anchor talked about all kinds of dedications he was getting, and about memorials that were being held. Tony's parents were on once, asking to have any fond memories of their son sent to them, so they might compile a book of pictures and adventures. Oaken Hills was a sad little town, and no one forgot Tony.

But, even without Tony, life went on. Soon, graduation came, and caps were tossed. Parties were held, tears were shed, and summer plans were made. Ash had found an art school, where he and Jamie would both attend. Ash wanted to be an actor, and he was devoted to his craft. Jennifer was going to a veterinary school, and Gary wanted to be an English teacher, so he studied at the state university.

Before his friends departed, Gary spent one last summer with them. They promised to keep in touch, and visit whenever possible. It was so hard for Gary to let his friends go. They were his world, what would he do without them? Would they forget about him? Make other, better friends? He was so worried.

The day Ash left, was a sad one. Gary helped load everything up into the Snider's trunk. "Don't forget me, okay?" Gary asked nervously. Ash laughed "I couldn't forget you if I tried!" When he noticed Gary's concerned look, Ash put a hand on his friend's shoulder. "Don't worry, I'll call every week, I promise." Gary tried a smile "You better." The young men embraced tightly, and then Ash was gone.

Jennifer left on a Friday. Gary set her final green suitcase in the backseat before they said goodbye. Now is the time, He thought. This is your last chance. Be a man. As Gary hugged Jennifer for the last time in what would seem like an eternity, He whispered in her ear "I love you" and he held her tight. When she pulled away there were so many questions in her eyes, but no time. He smiled and squeezed her hand, and she was whisked away into the car.

In the letters and phone calls that followed during the next school year, Jennifer never asked what he had meant, or why he said it then. Gary didn't mind. He felt so light, like a bird finally set free from a life long cage. He could laugh at her jokes, without the fear of scaring her away. He could listen to her stories, thinking of the stories they themselves had made. And then day dreaming of the stories they would undoubtadly make in the future.

The years came and went. The time away from Gary's friends seemed to drag on forever, while the time when they came home to visit was never enough. A few times, Gary went to visit Ash for the weekend, or to spend the day with Jennifer. It was good to see how his friends lived their new lives, but he missed how it used to be. He expressed this longing to Mable one gray, lonely afternoon in mid January.

"Gary," She said "You have to understand that your friends have seperate lives from yours. Yes, they are connected to you in some ways, but you have to let them live thier own lives." Gary scowled at the table. "Besides, life won't always be like high school. Someday not so far off in the future, you three will all have to grow up and go your seperate ways." His heart stopped. "What did you say?" He felt like all of the breath in his body had been vacuumed up. "Well, you might hear from you friends on christmas and such, but you won't see them everyday. Jennifer will get married, Ash will move in with Jamie, if that's who he is still seeing, and you'll find a girl you really like." "I don't need to go find a girl, Mable." Gary felt very cold. The air in his lungs had frozen, making each breath painful. "We won't grow apart. We promised each other. They promised." His words sounded strange to him, like someone else was speaking them. "Gary, listen to your grandmother." She put her hand on his. "Life changes, and so do the people in it. You have to understand that. Just let things happen as they must, otherwise your relationships with people will become strained." But he couldn't let life do that, take his friend away. Jennifer, Mable and Ash were the only things Gary cared about. They couldn't leave him. He would be nothing without them. He hoped Mable understood that.

Jennifer cried when she found out. Gary had to listen to the tears in her voice when asked when the funeral was. "Next sunday, at one." his voice wavered. "We're... I'm having her buried under the Maple tree in the cemetary. She used to love those. 'A maple for Mable' she used to say..." He trailed off, not knowing what to say. "I'll be there." Jennifer promised. After a silence, they said goodbye and Gary called everyone else who was invited."

The service was not too long, but it was meaningful. Mable's minister spoke first, then some of her favorite music was played: The songs that she hummed when she baked. Then it was Gary's turn to speak. He stood up in his somber suit, and addressed the mourning crowd. "My grandmother, was a wonderful woman. She brought joy to every person she knew. When people met me, I wasn't introduced at 'Marla's son' or 'Arnold's son' I was always, and still am, 'Mable's boy.'" He took a deep breath. "I miss her, everyday. She was my mother, my teacher, and my friend. She cared about me when no one else did, and I would not be who I am without her."

He went on to say more, about her life. When he had finished, Gary sat down and looked out at the group. Even though the minister had begun speaking again, all eyes were still on him. Jennifer had tears rolling down her perfect cheeks, Ash was sitting in the back, tightly squeezing Jamies hand, and there was a man sitting in the front, watching Gary with an intensity no one else had. Was he... No, he couldn't be. But, he looked just like him...

After the coffin was buried, and the baked goodies were all gone, people started to drift off. Soon, the only people left were Gary, Jennifer, Ash and Jamie, and the strange man. As Gary was cleaning things up, the man aproached him.

"Well, I'll be damned." He said. Gary turned and looked at the man. "I'll be damned." The man smelled of whiskey, a smell Gary remembered all too well. "Hello father." "That's it? Ten years I ain't seen ya, and that's all you got to say to me? 'Hello father'" Arnold mimicked. "What's else would I say to you?" Gary asked softly. "Speak up, boy, I can't hear your whisperin'!" His father bellowed. "You're drunk, father. Go home and rest." "To hell I will! I come to take you home." Gary shook his head. "I'll go home when I'm finished here." Arnold stared at his son. "You ain't been home in ten years." Gary frowned. "Of course I have. Where else would I be?" Then he realised, they were talking about very different places. "That shack that you live in, is not my home, father. You never once came looking for me, not on my birthdays, or christmases. I will go home when I have finished cleaning up. I suggest you leave." Gary's eyes were like stone, and his tone was cold. "Don't ya want me, Gare?" His father asked. "You need to go home." Gary said as he turned away. "I'll be back for the will Readin'." Was the only reply he received.

When his so called father had gone, Gary walked his friends out. They embraced him repeatedly, even Jamie. Gary liked Jamie, he was the perfect opisite of Ash. Jamie had brown eyes and dark braided hair, and a runner's body. His resounding laugh made you feel lucky to be around him. When Ash held his lover's hand, their fingers looked like the keys of a piano. They were perfect for each other.

After a few rounds of hugs all around, it was time to go. Jamie whispered "You're so strong." Before giving Gary's hand a quick squeeze. Ash hugged him, not saying a word. Just a tight, caring hug. When Jennifer wrapped her arms around him, she whispered "Still?" Gary smiled as he whispered back "Forever." As his friends drove away, Gary smiled and cried.

When it was time to read Mable's will, Gary was not excited. He had no desire to see his father again. He sat down behind the man who's sperm created him, and they listened. The vast majority of Mable's belongings were left to Gary. A few things were left to her friends, like a sewing machine and a set of pillows. Random miscellaneous items that Gary didn't even remember. The house, the savings, and everything else was left to Gary. And not a cent was left for Arnold.

Gary went home and gathered everything that was not his, and set it on the table. He cleaned Mable's room, and left everything how she would always leave it. He cleaned the house, fixed his dinner, and went to bed.

For the next few years, very little changed. The three friends kept in touch as they promised they would, and their lives were going very well. Ash had found an acting troupe, and he and Jamie had moved into a little apartment together. Jennifer was almost done with her degree, and Gary was teaching at the Oaken Hills Elementary school. He liked his students, they were quiet and obedient, and they laughed at his jokes. Gary was almost happy, but one thing was missing.

"Hey Jen" He said when she picked up. "Hello Gary!" She smiled. They talked about little things: School, students, friends. His heart was pounding as he asked "Where are you going when you graduate?" the line was silent for a moment. "I think I'll move back to Oaken Hills. Are those Acorn Apartments still renting?" His heart lept. "Yes, still renting and available." "Great!" He couldn't believe his luck. His Jennifer was coming home at last.

After graduation, Jennifer did indeed move back to Oaken Hills. She rented a cozy apartment and started work at the local vet's office. Gary took her out to dinner every Thursday. The routine was enjoyable, and so was the company.

"Gary, do you remember what you said to me before I left for college?" Jennifer asked. Gary looked up from him soup. "Of course." She didn't look up from her sandwich. "And what you said at Mable's funeral?" Gary smiled softly, saying "Yes, I remember." Jennifer's cheeks became just a little bit rosier. "Do you still mean it?" Gary could hardly keep from shouting. "I do."

When they arrived at Jennifer's appartment, Gary walked her up to her door, like he always did. As they got to the door, they embraced. It was the same thing as always. But when he pulled away, Jennifer pulled him back. Gently, she put her small hand on his cheek, and she kissed him. It was better than he imagined. Soft, and warm, her lips were sweet. She pulled away all too soon, and smiled at him shyly. "Goodnight, my dear." She whispered. "Goodnight, my sweetheart." He whispered back. As he left her house, he floated down the steps, and drove a cloud all the way home.

Progressively, their dates became longer and more passionate, and the time without each other grew more lonely than ever before. They began to do everything together: Movies, parties, meals, and sleeping. Gary was so happy; he was happier than he had ever been before. They fought, from time to time, and they got angry and sad, but they always made up before long.

Gary doted upon his girlfriend, unlike any of her past lovers. And she rewarded him with her beautiful, perfect love. They spent hours together without growing tired of the company, and on their two year anniversary she moved in. The house was just as she remembered. The big brick home still had a large kitchen, a dark basement, and Mable's room was still the same, as though she never left. Gary still lived in the same, dim room, but he had turned one of the many empty rooms into an office.

Things could not have gone better for for the young couple. Their love was deep and meaningful, perfect in every way. No lies, no secrets, no troubles. Or so they thought. But whatever unsavory facts still lingered, they bubbled far below the surface, so not even the couple knew of them.

As time passed, Gary and Jennifer saw less and less of Ash. He often moved around a lot, due to different jobs. He called every other month or so, checking in on his old friends. But he had a busy life planned out, regardless of his past. He still cared greatly for his childhood companions, but Ash knew he couldn't continue his career if he couldn't look forward.

Gary didn't mind, so much. He did miss his friend, but Jennifer consumed his life now. She was the star he smiled at, the earth he stood upon, the very air that he breathed. He would never let anything bad happen to her. He was going to keep his girl safe, always.

Time wore on as it is known to do, and without a second thought, Gary asked his beautiful girlfriend to be his beautiful wife. She said yes, much to his releif, and they set about planning the ceremony. "It's too bad Mable can't be here." Jennifer said one sunday morning." Gary looked up from the pile of invitations he was flipping though. "Yes... Do you think she would have approved?" He wondered aloud. "Of course, she liked me, didn't she?" Jennifer asked. Gary looked at the invitations as if in a daze. "Yes, of course." He muttered. Jennifer smiled as she stood up. "Well, then there's no reason to worry." She kissed his forehead, and left the room.

But Gary did worry. It had been a long time since anyone had asked about Mable. What if they asked more questions? Gary shook his head. Why was he worried? Everyone knew what had happened. She had a heart attack and died in her bed. Nothing strange about that, right? She was old, and old people die. Still, Gary couldn't help but worry.

The wedding itself was not very big. Almost everyone who attended was from Jennifer's side of the family. The only attendees not in that catagory were Ash, Jamie, the two remaining friend's of Mable's, and a few co workers of Gary's. Arnold was invited, but there was no response.

Jennifer walked down the aisle in a pure white dress and she looked beyond amazing. Gary's eyes started to tear up when she reached him. Finally, he uttered the words he had longed to say forever. "I do." And it felt so good.

Married life was just as nice as Gary imagined. They carried on lovingly, enjoying everyday. He would not have changed a thing. Not at first, anyway.

"We have a new doctor in the office." Said Jennifer as she took the roast out of the oven and sat it on the stove. "Oh?" Gary asked, reaching for silverware. "Mmhmm. He just moved here from Jefferson. He's a real nice guy, asking everyone about themselves." She said as she began carving. Gary turned to face his wife, forks in hand. She continued without noticing "All the girls think he's super cute, and I can't say I disagree." She giggled "He asked me all about you, Gary. How we got along, when we got married, silly stuff like that." "What's his name?" Gary said, raspily. "Will. Uh, Doctor William Jones." She smiled and handed Gary his supper. He took the plate, but his mind was elsewhere.

This new doctor lingered in Gary's mind. Who did he think he was, this William Jones? Why was he so interested in Jennifer? Jennifer was Gary's wife. She loved Gary. Right? Why did she think Doctor Jones was cute? Was Gary cute? These questions raced through Gary's mind as he lay in bed that night. Finally, he came to a conclusion: Something would have to be done.

The next evening, Gary decided to pick up his lover from work. As he pulled in, he saw Jennifer laughing through the window. Beside her was a man with curly black hair, who seemed to be telling a story, judging by the elaborate hand motions he was using. Nearing the building, Gary could see the nurses and the receptionist laughing with them, but the man's eyes were only on Jennifer. HIS Jennifer. Upon opening the door, Gary was greeted with the giggles and snorts of the women inside.

"So then I say, 'Your steed's not a horse, he's an a*s!'" Said the man. The ladies burst out uproariously. Gary stood in the doorway quietly, until Jennifer noticed him. "Oh, hey Gary. This is Will, you remeber me telling you about him." She said as she pulled him in. "Will, this is Gary." Dr. Jones extended his hand. "Gary?..." He smiled, as if he wasn't aware of who he was addressing. "Her husband." Gary emphasized as he shook the doctor's hand. "Well, I guess we should be off..." Jennifer sighed. "Yes. We really should. I have dinner plans for us, dear." Gary smiled tersly. "See you tomorrow, Will!" She waved as Gary lead her out the door.

At dinner, Jennifer spoke of Dr. Jones as if he was some sort of special treat. He had seemingly done so much, and was so impressive with the animals. Gary nodded along to what his beloved wife said, filled with sadness. He could feel Jennifer's love slipping away. He couldnt let that happen. He had worked so hard to give her everything she wanted. And she didn't even care anymore. But Gary still cared. He cared an awful lot.

The story spead across the state like wildfire. The headlines were huge: Runaway Wife Ran Too Far!, Doctors Drink And Drive!, and Tragic Romance Turns Fatal! Everyone read about it. All of the stories included the same pictures of the doctors, and the same basic information. Although they all used different, the story remained. One article read:

Yesterday, two vetrinarians were proclaimed dead by local police. William Sean Jones was found dead in his car, he is believed to have been accopmanied by Jennifer Marie Thorton Widdles. Although Mrs. Widdles' body has yet to be found, police have found her DNA at the scene of the crime. Physical examiners have stated that the innitial crush would have killed both passengers, and the Mayor is stressing the consequences of drunk driving.

Co workers of the Doctors have said that they were unaware of any romantic relationship between the two, however, "There were looks given." Said Bertha Pool, the receptionist. Widdles' husband, was also unaware of the affair, saying "I've known Jennifer forever, since high school. I guess, I just wasn't enough anymore."

The article went on to give other details on the deaths, and when the funerals would be held. But Gary wasn't interested in these trifles. He knew what had happened to his perfect bride and the sly doctor. He would think of it many times during the next few weeks.

Arsenic, was a beatiful thing. So easy, so simple, so perfect. It ravaged the body on the inside, while leaving the outside as it should be. The only problem was the fingernails and toenails; Arsenic changed the color. But that could easily be painted over.

Those idiots in the police station couldn't tell a cat scratch from knife cut; that could be the problem with volunteers. But it wasn't a problem for Gary. In fact, they made it all too easy. Every single one was just too easy.

His first, was Tony. Oh Tony, what an ignorant fool. How could he do such a horrible thing to Jennifer? He had to go. It was simple. Offer him a spiked drink. He took care of the rest all by himself.

Then Mable. Poor Mable, who always ate cookies before bed. Gary did love her immensely, but she should not have said those wicked, awful things about his friends. And he had proven her wrong, hadn't he? She didn't complain anymore, now she was peaceful and kind, the way she once was.

Dr. Jones was a recycled idea. He wasn't worth a new trick: Alchol and Arsenic, a prefered choice of drink. It really was his fault, he should not have been drinking and driving. You would think someone who had a Phd. would know better. Gary chuckled to himself.

At last, Jennifer. His lovely, lovely Jennifer. She should have stayed faithful, he was her husband, after all. And he loved her so much, it honestly hurt him more than it hurt her. And he tried to explain that too her, but she was being so rash. When she started feeling sick after desert, he told her how much he loved her. How he could never lose her. But she didn't want to listen. Finally, he had to lock her in the bedroom, to keep her from harming her body.

She looked so beautiful, sitting on the couch in her purple ball gown. The basement lighting suited Jennifer, showing off her cheekbones and arced brows. A Mona Lisa smile sat upon her lips, as her head rested lightly on her right hand. God, she was so beautiful. And Mabel looked as young as ever, leaned back in her rocking chair, cook book in hand. As Gary sat down, he thought about how lucky he was to have such gentle, uderstanding women in his life. He would never worry about them leaving him, because the love between them, was forever.

Reviews

[A Gentleman of Verona]

Well, that took and unexpected turn for the "holy f*****g f**k, what the f**k just happened?", didn't it?

Um, before I get to my review of the story itself, I guess I'll go over a few smaller things.

I particularly enjoyed the lines "It wasn't the attendees of Oaken Hills High were especially frightening, just that Gary was especially frightened." and "When Ash held his lover's hand, their fingers looked like the keys of a piano." Dunno why, exactly, they just tickled my fancy, I suppose.

"Large amounts of alcohol were found in his stomach, leading police to believe he was heavily intoxicated." A small nitpick, but if they performed an autopsy, they would have ascertained his drunkenness from his blood alcohol content, not by the contents of his stomach.

From a syntax perspective, you need to insert paragraph breaks between different characters dialogue, as well as a blank line to signify time skips between major events.

Okay, now that that's out of the way, onto my analysis of the story itself. First off, I found this to be an extremely engaging read. At the beginning, I found it to be a bit slow, what with the mildly generic character descriptions of Jennifer, but within a few paragraphs, I was hooked. From an overall standpoint, my only complaint is that it isn't longer. I would have like to have seen more of the little moments between the big events, y'know?

Gary is quite well drawn as a main character, and the undercurrent of jealousy and entitlement that runs through the story, steadily building until it reaches its zenith, serves to make the reveal believable even as it is shocking. Gary is sympathetic while simultaneously being monstrous, and you get the feeling that he's operating within the perimeters of his own fucked-up brand of psychology that has little to nothing to do with the way the people around him think.

Jennifer herself is rather flat and uninspired, but that is actually to the story's benefit, as Gary is objectifying her and placing her on a pedestal. You're seeing this from the perspective of someone who sees Jennifer as being flawed and perfect, like a porcelain doll, and so she appears to the reader. Perfect, without fault, a prize to be obtained.

I have only two complaints, narrative-wise. The first is that the murder of Mable seems forced and unnatural, more there for shock value than as an organic part of the story. While I see where you were coming from as the writer, as a reader, it doesn't really seem to mesh with the rest of the story. Her sins don't really seem significant enough to warrant death in Gary's eyes, at least by the standards given in the rest of the tale. It seems like it's a case of the plot driving the characters rather than the characters driving the plot. I don't suggest removing it, but perhaps reworking it a bit to make it fit better.

The second is that the character of Arnold feels both ridiculous and a little bit unnecessary. He's little more than a collection of walking alcoholic cliches, a modern day version of Huck Finn's father, that does little to service the narrative once he actually appears, and serves more as a distraction than anything. The idea of Arnold as an absent force rather than a present one works much better, in my opinion. I think it might work better to have Arnold absent from the funeral, comment upon said absence, and then have him attend the will reading. It would show his sense of entitlement without responsibility without resorting to overused character cliches. He feels more like a caricature than a human being.

Those few small gripes aside, this is a highly enjoyable read, with a rather chilling undercurrent. From the perspective of Jennifer, it's quite unnerving to think the people you love and trust are the ones that are the most dangerous. However, from Gary's perspective, the tale serves as a metaphor in that sometimes, it's your care and you love that ends up hurting the people around you when taken too far.

Not too bad, Ms. Dewey. I look forward to reading more of your work.