Blossoms of Love by Juanita Jane Foshee Page B

more often.” Dorothy said, “That was a very nice thing you did for Paul and Allen today. Paul is having a hard time trying to make ends meet at school.” Lamont replied, “I know. That’s why I gave him the check. Paul is the smart one of us and he needs the chance to be a doctor.” He finished packing, “I know you and Dad don’t have the money to help him.” He put his arm around his mother, “I want you to buy you some new clothes with some of the money I send you and Dad.” She smiled, “We don’t use much of the money you send. We’re putting it in the bank for you.” Lamont said, “I want you and Dad to use that money.” She kissed him, “We will if we need it. Your Father hasn’t been feeling too well here lately.” Lamont looked concerned, “Dad is getting too old to work this ranch alone. Before I leave, I’ll talk to him about hiring someone to help him. When my time is up in the Navy, I’m thinking about getting out and coming home to help Dad.” His mother rejoiced, “Oh Monty I hope you do.” Tears were in her eyes, “Your Father was hoping one of you boys would be interested in the ranch.” Lamont said, “It will be two years yet.” Dorothy asked, “Will you tell your Father your plans? It will make him so happy.” Lamont said, “Yes I’ll tell him.”
    Since Lamont wasn’t leaving until morning, he helped his Father feed the stock in the stable. His Father promised to hire someone to help him. Mrs. Ellman was right, when Lamont told him of his plans, Mr. Ellman put his arm around Lamont’s shoulder and said, “I’m glad. I always knew you would be the one to take over the ranch.” Lamont explained, “I don’t want to take the ranch over Dad. I just want to help you.” John Ellman said, “I know that, but one of these days you will. Berry is the only one besides you who’s interested in the ranch business and he has a good size spread of his own. You see son, you're the only one left.” Lamont said, “We’ll see Dad..” Lamont left the next morning.
    Two weeks before Christmas, David called Lamont, “Hey buddy. Can you make it here by the twenty-third? I finally decided to tie the knot with Sharon. I want you to be my best man. Lamont glanced at a calendar on his desk, “Sure I can be there.” David said, “That’s just great. When you get here, we’ll get caught up on our talking.” Lamont laughed, “You won’t have time for talking.” David laughed aloud, “Maybe I can squeeze at least one talk. So long buddy, see you then.” Lamont laughed as he put the receiver on the hook.
    Lamont arrived at the airport late afternoon on the twenty-second. He was looking for Porter when he saw Natalie. She hadn’t changed any in almost three years. She still looked like a sixteen year old teenager. She waved and hurried towards him. He grinned, “Hello kitten.” She said, “Hi Monty. You look more mature, but you’re still beautiful.” He laughed, “Men can’t be beautiful, only women.” She argued, “I disagree because you are beautiful.” He leaned over and kissed her tenderly.
    On their way home Natalie said, “The wedding is at four-thirty Christmas Eve. Oh, and the wedding is old fashioned. Isn’t that wild? Even the bride will be dressed the way they used to dress. I think it’s a kooky idea. That’s Sharon for you, anything to be different. Dave already has your suit.” Lamont sighed, “I still can’t believe Dave is getting married.” It’s taken Sharon almost three years to talk him into it.”
    Everyone greeted Lamont as if he were one of the family. David was so glad to see Lamont; he kept on shaking his hand, “Monty it’s been too damn long.” Lamont agreed, “Sure has. It’s been nearly three years.” David stood away from Lamont, “Look at this guy will you? He’s a big wig in the Navy now.” Lamont laughed, “I just make more money.”
    They had rehearsal that night and went to a night club to eat; compliments of Mr.