Page 41 of Love's Home Run

Ross leaned back against the passenger seat and closed his eyes.

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When they saw signs for the New Jersey Turnpike, Ross said, “Please pull into the next stop. I’ll take over driving from there.”

She did as he asked and pulled into a gas station. While he filled the car with gas, she freshened up inside.

When she returned to the car, a surprising tension filled the air.

“Are you nervous about seeing your dad?” she asked him gently.

Looking glum, Ross said, “Each time I see or talk to him, I realize he’s getting worse. Truthfully, I dread seeing him. My brothers tell me each day is different and that some days are better than others. I hope this is one of his good ones.”

“I’m sure, no matter what, he’ll be thrilled to see you,” she said, giving his forearm a little pat.

“Even though he tells me to go on about my business, he’s always glad to see me.”

“Tell me about your neighborhood,” she said, trying to keep his mind occupied.

“It’s a typical middle-class one, with modest houses, many kids, and happy memories. We kids played together since we were young. Our parents were all friends, and though many of them moved away to nicer neighborhoods, they all kept in touch. They were fantastic when my mom died.”

“What a wonderful way to grow up,” said Melissa. “Though our town was friendly and we kids all knew one another, we lived in different neighborhoods, making it a little harder to get together. And then, my parents were always working, so I couldn’t have kids over very often. Still, Lilac Lake is very special.”

“Yes,” said Ross. “I like it.”

Moments later, Ross pulled in front of a tan clapboard split-level home with neatly trimmed landscaping. As Ross had described, the neighborhood was family-friendly, with kids playing outside and bicycles, carriages, and strollers in front of some of the houses.

Ross pulled into the driveway behind a white SUV and parked the car.

“Here we go,” he said. “I think my brother, Dewey, must be here. I’m pretty sure that’s his car. He works in IT, and he and his wife have four kids.” He got out of the car, and they went up the sidewalk leading to the front porch.

A pleasant-faced, heavy-set woman wearing black slacks and a white blouse greeted them at the door. “Welcome. Happy to see you, Ross.”

“Mrs. Barnard, how are you?” Ross said and turned to Melissa. “This is a friend of mine, Melissa Hendrickson. Melissa, Mrs. Barnard is Dad’s nurse.”

“A pleasure to meet you, Melissa. Please come in. Your father has been waiting for you, Ross.”

Melissa followed them inside to the living room, where an older man sat in a brown leather reclining chair. Beside him, holding his hand, was a man who looked a lot like Ross. His eyes were as bright a blue as Ross’s, and his boyish grin the same.

He stood and, smiling at her, he embraced Ross. “Hey, Bro! Great to see you. How long are you here for?”

Ross glanced at his father. “I’m not sure. Hey, Dad, Dewey, meet Melissa Hendrickson. She’s my next-door neighbor and is doing me a favor by helping me drive here following my knee surgery.”

“Glad to meet you,” Dewey said, holding his hand. “So nice of you to drive down with Ross.”

“I’m happy to do it. It keeps me busy while trying to cope after a family tragedy. Our restaurant burned down,” said Melissa. She shook Dewey’s hand and knelt by his father’s chair to say hello to him.

She returned his father’s smile and studied him. His cheeks were sunken, and though his body looked frail, his blue eyes were full of life as he gazed at her. “How lucky to have a neighbor like you,” he said, giving her a wink.

Melissa’s heart went out to him. There was no doubt as to where Ross got his charm.

“Sit, sit,” said Mrs. Barnard. “Can I get anything to drink or eat?” She gazed at Melissa.

“I’d like a glass of water,” Melissa said. “Thank you.”

“I’ll have the same,” said Ross, leaning down to hug his father. He and Dewey brought two more chairs over, and they all sat beside him. “How’s it going, Dad?”

“It’s going,” said his father. “It’s wonderful to see you. Everyone is being so kind.”

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