Part 11

On Friday, there was a noticeable difference in the hallways of Sleepyside Junior-Senior High School. The seniors were excused to prepare for the prom and if any underclassmen were invited, their parents had sent notes excusing them from school.

Trixie was well aware of Jim’s absence as well. Even though their conversations were brief as of late, she just missed seeing him. She hoped he was wowing the scholarship committee.

As classed ended for the day, Trixie retrieved the books she needed from her locker for homework. She had a few assignments for the weekend, but she also wanted to get started studying for her finals.

Trixie closed her locker as Dan called out her name.

“Are you ready to go?” Dan asked.

Trixie nodded.

They made their way down the hall and out the main doors. They stopped on the steps when they saw Madeleine Wheeler standing by the Wheeler limousine. She waved them over.

When they reached her, Dan asked, “Is something wrong?”

“Nothing is wrong,” Madeleine said. “Dan, I received permission from your uncle and from your mother, Trixie, to accompany me into the city.”

Trixie shook her head.

“Trixie, I will call your mom and put her on the speakerphone so you know this is not a set up,” Madeleine said.

She nodded and watched as the number for the farm was put into the phone. As the number rang, Madeleine hit the speakerphone button.

“Hello?” Helen’s voice came from the phone.

“Hello, Helen. It’s Maddie.”

“Hi. Are Trixie and Dan there?” Helen asked.

“They’re right here,” Madeleine said.

“Hi kids,” Helen said. “Regan is fine with you going to the city with Maddie, as are we. I know you’re both wondering what is going on, but you shouldn’t worry. There’s a bag with a change of clothes for both of you in the car. Have a good time tonight and we will see you tomorrow.”

“Bye,” Dan said and Trixie stared quizzically at Madeleine.

“If you’ll both get in, we can head on our way.”

The two of them did and within moments they were heading for the city.

“So, where are we going?’ Dan asked as he looked out the window.

“Matthew and I thought a night out on the town would be fun for you two and Jim,” Madeleine said. “That’s why Regan and the Beldens agreed. They also thought a relaxing time would be good before you got wrapped up into studying for your finals.”

“Does Jim know we’re coming?” Dan asked.

“He’s still in his interview,” Madeleine said. “We’ll meet them back at the apartment.”

Trixie watched the scenery pass as they moved from the rural area to the city. She allowed Dan and Madeleine to talk as she let her mind wander. She had a feeling the Wheelers were up to something, but she couldn’t put her finger on it. She hoped it was something for Jim and that it would bring a genuine smile to his face.

When the limousine pulled to a stop in front of the apartment, one of the bellhops hurried to the vehicle and opened the door. Dan got out first just as Matthew exited the building.

Madeleine slipped out and gave Matthew a kiss on the cheek.

“How was your trip?” Matthew asked.

“It was fine,” Madeleine said. “Is Jim back from his interview?”

Matthew nodded. “He’s in his room resting. He came back and was exhausted. I told him there was time before dinner.”

“That’s probably for the best,” Madeleine said. “Well, since we have time, Trixie and I are going to head to the store to find something to wear for tonight.”

“We will meet you at the restaurant at seven,” Matthew said. “Have fun.”

They got back into the limousine before it pulled away from the curb. Trixie watched Madeleine carefully. She was certain there was some plan for the evening and began to feel very uncomfortable.

When they finally stopped and got out, Trixie saw they were in front of a boutique with beautiful formal gowns in the window. She was stunned that dinner was going to be so formal.

They went inside and Trixie saw two gowns, one yellow and the other pale green that could be bridesmaid dresses with all the lace and tulle.

“This way, Trixie,” Madeleine said.

Trixie followed Madeleine into a side room and saw racks of dresses, of every color, size and design, lining the walls.

Two employees approached the pair and the first said, “Mrs. Wheeler, it is so good to see you. We have everything ready, per your request.”

“Thank you so much,” Madeleine said.

Trixie reached forward and tugged on Madeleine’s sleeve.

“Yes, Trixie?”

Trixie quickly wrote out, “What is going on?”

“We’re going to get you a dress.”

“Why so formal?” Trixie wrote.

“Everyone needs a formal dress for the prom.”

Trixie’s eyes went wide as she stared at Madeleine, hoping she had heard her wrong.

Madeleine looked at the employees and asked, “Could we have a couple minutes?”

“Of course,” the first woman said. “We’ll gather the dresses we thought met your specifications.”

“Thank you,” Madeleine said.

They two of them moved to the plush white cushions and sat down. Trixie looked at Madeleine, waiting for an explanation.

“After our conversation the other night, Matthew and I knew Jim couldn’t miss the prom. He might be okay with not going now, but we don’t want him to regret this decision later in life. So we figured we’d set everything up to have dinner and then arrive at the prom in time for the crowning of the king and queen with about an hour left for the two of you to dance away if you want.”

“Why is Dan here?”

“Dan is here for motivation,” Madeleine said with a twinkle in her eye. “We both know my son has a bit of a stubborn streak, so Dan is here to help make sure Jim enjoys his prom.”

“Does Dan know why he’s here?”

Madeleine nodded. “When we approached him, he readily agreed. He wants to help you and Jim have a wonderful evening.”

“I just don’t understand.”

“We know Jim would not go to the prom without you and we wanted to make sure you two have a night to remember.”

Trixie knew Madeleine was right. Jim would not go if she didn’t. She quickly wrote, “Is there a dress style you think would look good on me?”

“Let’s take a look,” Madeleine said and the employees returned with several choices.

Just as the clock hit seven, the limousine carrying Madeleine and Trixie pulled up in front of the restaurant. Trixie could see Matthew, Jim and Dan, dressed in tuxedos, through the tinted windows. Her stomach was in knots, terrified Jim was going to be upset.

She ran her hand along the satin of her dress and then across her hair to make sure the hairdresser’s work had not been ruined. A lot had been done in a short amount of time to make her beautiful and she hoped Jim wouldn’t be disappointed.

Trixie watched Matthew step up to the limousine and open the door. He reached his hand in and Madeleine accepted it. She slipped out showing off the green dress that hugged her figure.

“You look amazing,” Matthew said.

“Thank you,” Madeleine said.

Matthew offered his hand to Trixie and she took hold. She carefully stepped out of the limousine and looked over at Jim and Dan. She met Jim’s gaze and realized he couldn’t take his eyes off of her. It looked like he was trying to catch his breath.

“Wow,” Dan said, an appreciative smile filling his face.

“You look so beautiful,” Jim managed to get out.

Trixie smiled.

“We should go in,” Matthew said, as Madeleine took hold of his arm.

Jim moved over to Trixie and offered her his own arm. They followed the Wheeler’s and Dan inside.

She was in awe of the magnificence of the restaurant. A glass chandelier hung from the ceiling in the main entrance. Exquisite paintings adorned the walls.

The five of them were led through the restaurant to a table. Trixie watched as Jim pulled the chair out so she could sit. Jim sat on one side of her and Dan was on the other.

Dinner was a quiet affair. When the meal was over, they returned to the limousine. Once they were seated and on their way, Jim asked, “So, why did we have to get dressed up? No one else was as formal as we were.”

“Well, for you to get into this next activity, you need to be dressed a little better than those other patrons,” Madeleine said.

“Where are we going now?” Jim asked tiredly.

“Do you want to skip it and go back to the apartment?” Matthew asked.

“I didn’t expect to be going out tonight,” Jim said.

“That’s fine,” Dan said. “I’m certain Trixie I will have a good time.”

Jim looked at Dan. “You know where we’re going?”

“I have a clue,” Dan said, leaning back in his seat. “I’d be more than happy to step in while you go get some sleep. You do look a bit tired and could probably use a break after all the time you’ve been preparing for today’s interview.”

Trixie looked at Dan and mouthed, “That sounds good to me.”

“You both know?” Jim asked.

“I think Trixie has the same idea as me,” Dan said with a grin.

“Where are we going?” Jim asked.

“We are heading for the White Plains Country Club so that you can attend your Senior Prom,” Matthew said.

Jim stared at his parents. Trixie could see the confusion on his face.

She squeezed his hand to get his attention. He looked at her and she used the notepad and pen that was next to her.

“The Senior Prom is a high school tradition. You can’t miss it.”

“I don’t want to have to watch you deal with Amelia,” Jim said.

“You shouldn’t have to avoid your Senior Prom just because of her,” Trixie wrote. “You are entitled to enjoy this night like any other senior.”

“Trixie,” Jim began.

She shook her head. “Do not use me as an excuse. I can be in the same place as her. I would love to share this evening with you.”

Jim was quiet for a moment and looked at her. “Trixie, would you do me the honor of being my date for the Senior Prom?”

Trixie smiled and nodded.

Jim picked up her hand, brought it to his lips and gave it a kiss.

Trixie cast a quick glance at the Wheeler’s and saw them smiling.

Upon arriving at the country club, Trixie and Jim climbed out at the front entrance and made their way inside. Trixie clung to Jim’s arm as they proceeded to the banquet hall. Music was radiating out at them.

Stepping through the doors, they saw blue and white streamers draped along the walls. Vaes of white carnations sat on the blue tablecloths. Off to the left of the door was a wooden archway decorated with more white carnations and vines with blue ribbon woven among the boards. A photographer was present taking photos of the couples.

To the right of the entrance were tables with punch and snacks, including veggies, cheese and crackers.

At the far end of the room was a band with a separate sound system.

The band finished and the lead singer stated they were going to take a break. The sound system was turned on and a slow song began to play.

Jim leaned down to Trixie. He asked, “May I have this dance?”

Trixie smiled and nodded.

Jim took her hand and they found a spot on the dance floor. He pulled her close and she put her head against his chest. She closed her eyes as they swayed to the music. It felt so right to be there in Jim’s arms. A second ballad followed and they stayed on the dance floor.

Trixie felt Jim pull back slightly and she leaned back to look him in the eye.

He said, “Thank you for this.”

“Any time,” Trixie mouthed.

Jim leaned in again and captured her lips with his. Just as it seemed for prom was vanishing around them, she felt Jim get pulled abruptly from her. She stumbled slightly, but kept her balance.

“I’m so happy you made it,” came Amelia’s voice.

Trixie looked up and saw Amelia was dressed in a white gown that hugged her figure. To Trixie, it actually looked like a wedding dress. She had a hold of Jim’s arm and tried to drag him toward the band.

Jim pulled his arm free and stared at her. “Amelia, enough.”

She turned to face him. “Jim, you need to stop playing these games. They’re going to announce you are Prom King.”

“Amelia, I’m not going to be Prom King.”

“Jim, you’re a shoo in. You are the only choice.” She reached for him. “Now, come on. We need to be up front for the announcement.”

“Sorry, but Trixie and I are going to dance.” Jim turned to Trixie and pulled her close to him.

They moved to the music as they put distance between Amelia and themselves.

When the song came to an end, they got a couple drinks and took a seat at one of the tables near the wall so they could watch. Several of Jim’s classmates came over to greet him, so Trixie took the time to scope out the hall.

She saw the Wheeler’s were talking with Principal Stratton. Madeleine had her arm linked through Matthew’s, as her gazed swept the room.  Trixie saw a smile fill Madeleine’s face and turned herself to look in that direction. She had a matching grin on her own face as she saw Dan being escorted onto the dance floor by a senior girl.

Trixie felt Jim drape his arm across the chair back and lean close to her. He asked, “Why are you grinning?”

She glanced at Jim and then pointed to where Dan was dancing.

“I guess Charity got her wish,” Jim said after a moment. “The rumor was that she wanted to go with Dan, but there was pressure from her friends to go with a senior because they thought she deserved someone better than a sophomore.”

“They look happy now,” Trixie wrote on a napkin.

“They do,” Jim said.

“You look happy, too,” Trixie wrote.

Jim smiled. “I am happy. Because I’m here with you.”

Trixie felt the color rise in her cheeks.

“Can I have another dance?”

Trixie nodded.

Jim stood up and offered Trixie his hand. They made their way to the open area of the floor and began to move to the music. They stayed out there for several songs until Principal Stratton stopped the band and took the microphone.

“Good evening, ladies and gentleman,” Principal Stratton said. “I know you all have been anticipating this moment. So I will now announce this year’s Prom King and Queen.”

The secretary stepped up to Principal Stratton and handed him two envelopes. Principal Stratton opened the first envelope and pulled out a single white card.

“This year’s Prom Queen is Rebecca Smith.”

Cheers went up from the crowd as she made her way to the front. Principal Stratton took the tiara and placed it on her head.

As the applause died down, Principal Stratton opened the second envelope. The silence in the room was deafening. Everyone had their eyes on the envelope, trying to read the name written on the page.

“And now for the Prom King,” Principal Stratton said. He glanced down at the card and then back at the crowd. “This year’s Prom King is…Jim Frayne.”

Trixie clapped as hard as she could as Jim made his way forward. She was so proud of him. She knew he hadn’t thought about being Prom King, but this was a part of this special night.

Jim stepped up next to Principal Stratton and the crown was placed on his head.

“Please give another round of applause for this year’s Sleepyside Senior Class Prom King and Queen.”

Everyone cheered.

“And now for the King and Queen’s dance.”

Jim offered Rebecca his hand and they moved to the floor as everyone else stepped back. They moved to the music for a minute or so before stepping apart.

Rebecca’s boyfriend quickly stepped forward and took her in his arms.

Jim turned toward her, but before he could even take a step, Amelia stepped forward and jumped into his arms.

“My boyfriend is Prom King!” Amelia exclaimed.

Jim took her hands and unclasped them from around his neck. He looked her in the eye and said, “I am not your boyfriend.”

“Sweetheart, this is not the time for this,” Amelia said as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “This is our dance. Let’s enjoy it.”

Jim released her hands once again. “I have never and will never be your boyfriend. Now, if you will excuse me, I want to dance with my girlfriend.”

He moved past Amelia and took Trixie’s hand. He gave her a spin and pulled her close to his chest. Trixie wrapped her arms around Jim and they danced away from Amelia.

Trixie opened her eyes a bit as they swayed, wondering where Amelia had gone. She had a feeling Amelia would get revenge for being turned down publicly.

“Don’t think about her,” Jim whispered into her ear. “This is our time together.”

Trixie nodded and snuggled closer. Everything felt right to her.

It was a while later when Jim said, “We should go have our picture taken.”

Trixie nodded.

Jim wrapped his arm around her waist as they headed for the photographer. They saw most of the couples were standing so they were facing in one direction, with one person in front of the other.

When it was their turn, Jim asked, “Can we have our photos facing one another?”

“Of course.”

Trixie and Jim moved to their place with the arch over them. As the faced each other, they turned slightly toward the camera. Jim had his hands on her waist and Trixie rested her right hand on Jim’s arm. They turned to the camera and the picture was taken.

Jim and Trixie looked at one another. Jim said, “I love you, Trixie.”

“I love you, too,” Trixie mouthed.

Jim leaned down and gave her a kiss, both of them oblivious to the flash of the camera.

When they broke apart, they stepped away from the arch and moved to the photographer’s computer to look at the prints.

“I want both,” Jim said and Trixie nodded.

“Here are the photo packages,” the photographer’s assistant said. “If you let me know which one you want, I’ll have the prints delivered to the school this week.”

Jim and Trixie agreed on a package that would include both photos.

As they were about to return to the dance floor, they heard a voice yell, “Wheeler!”

They looked toward the entrance and saw Mayor Williams storming his way into the country club. They realized the music had stopped and no one was talking.

Matthew turned. “Robert. It’s good to see you.”

“How could you let this happen?” Robert demanded.

“Let what happen?” Matthew asked, clearly confused.

“Your son publicly humiliated by daughter by breaking up with her at the prom,” Robert said. “She called home devastated.”

Trixie saw Amelia clinging to her mother, crying.

“Jim did nothing of the sort,” Matthew said.

“Are you calling my daughter a liar?” Robert demanded.

“I’m saying you need to know the whole story,” Matthew said. “And I know for certain Jim and Amelia have not been dating.”

“Of course they have,” Robert said. “They’re together almost every evening.”

“Has Jim come by to pick Amelia up?” Matthew asked.

“No. Amelia said they always meet up at Wimpy’s.”

“Has Jim been to your house for dinner?” Matthew asked.

“Amelia said Jim wanted it to be just them.”

“I think you need to have a good conversation with your daughter because I know my son, and I know he has been spending a lot of time with Trixie, not Amelia.”

“Maybe he only told you that to hide the fact that he was happier with someone who had class than some poor country bumpkin focused solely on his money,” Robert said.

“My son would not lie about that,” Matthew said defensively. “And I’ve seen Jim and Trixie together with my own eyes when they’ve been at Manor House and when Trixie has joined us for dinner.”

“You’re just making up stories to protect that orphan instead of having him take responsibility for his actions.”

Trixie felt Jim walk toward his father and knew things were going to get bad.

“I don’t lie,” Matthew said.

“Maybe you just don’t want to face the fact that your son lies to you and that he will do anything to get his hands on your money. That’s what all people strive for, to get something from someone else,” Robert said.

“I think you need to leave my father alone,” Jim said.

“What’s wrong?” Robert asked. “Does the truth hurt?”

“What hurts is that you are making false accusations about me and my family,” Jim said.

“Like anything you say can be believed,” Robert said.

“It’s more that your daughter shouldn’t be believed,’ Jim said. “I never dated her and never will because she is not someone I want to be associated with. My heart belongs to one person who has held it since the day we met and I don’t see that ever changing.”

“You have no clue what you’re saying,” Robert said. “And I guarantee you will pay for what you’ve done.”

“I haven’t done anything,” Jim protested. “Your daughter made up this scenario that you bought hook, line and sinker. Punishing me for speaking the truth won’t change anything.”

Trixie watched the exchange and glanced at Amelia who had a smirk on her face. She knew Amelia was getting a rush from the anger around her.

“You should have been more careful because no one hurts my daughter, no one,” Robert said. “You just brought a whole lot of trouble for you and your family because you couldn’t see what is best for you.”

“I know what’s best for me,” Jim said. “And that’s Trixie. No one else.”

“We’ll see how good she is for you,” Robert said angrily.

He turned and headed for the entrance. As he disappeared through the doorway, Amelia and her mother followed.

A low murmur filled the hall as Trixie just stared at Jim. His face was red and she was certain his temper was close to bursting. He pulled the crown off his head and made his way toward the door. Madeleine and Matthew followed.

Trixie felt a hand on her arm and she jumped. She turned to see Dan and Charity.

“You two should go,” Charity said.

“Charity,” Dan said.

“It’s okay,” Charity said. “I’ll call you tomorrow.”

“You sure?” Dan pressed.

Charity nodded. “I will call.” She looked at Trixie. “It was nice you could be here with Jim. And you are a much better match for him than Amelia.”

Trixie offered her a small smile.

Charity leaned over and kissed Dan on the cheek. “Thank you for being here at my prom with me.”

“You’re welcome,” Dan said.

As Charity walked away, Dan put his arm around Trixie’s shoulder and they headed for the exit.

“That girl sure has her parents wrapped around her finger,” Dan said. “I never expected her to call her parents and have them make a scene at the prom.”

Trixie just walked along thinking of everything the mayor said. She wondered if he was right.

As they neared the door, Dan said, “Shoot. I forgot my jacket.”

Trixie blinked and realized he was right.

“Go ahead out,” Dan said. “I’ll grab my jacket and be right behind you.”

Trixie nodded.

She pushed the door open and stepped into the cool spring air. She wrapped her arms around herself as she started down the path that led to the parking lot. She was distracted by the scene and missed the path she needed to take.

When Trixie stopped and looked around, she saw she was on one of the paths that went out onto the golf course. She knew she needed to head back before the others got worried.

As she turned around, she stopped short when she saw Amelia standing on the path in her way.

“Well, if it isn’t little Miss Trixie Belden,” Amelia said.

Trixie turned and headed down the path. She figured there was another path close by that would get her to the parking lot. She had no idea what Amelia was planning, but felt the more distance between them the better.

“What’s wrong, little Miss Do-gooder?” Amelia asked. “Starting to realize everything my father said was the truth?”

Trixie kept walking. She had a mission to get to the Wheeler’s and nothing was going to stop her.

She felt Amelia grab her arm and spin her around so they were face to face.

“You and I need to talk,” Amelia said. “Or I need to talk and you need to listen.”

Trixie pulled her arm away and resumed her trek.

“I’m talking to you,” Amelia said loudly as she grabbed Trixie’s hair and giving it a yank.

She fell back and landed hard on the concrete walking path. She stared up as Amelia stood over her.

“You need to listen and listen good,” Amelia said. “Jim is out of your league. He may think you two have a connection, but he is wrong. You need to break up with him and stay away from him. You know he belongs with me forever. You know I can truly help him get in the right mindset to adjust to the life he should be living.”

Trixie pushed herself up and slowly got to her feet. She turned away from Amelia and continued on.

“I’m not done with you,” Amelia said.

She kept walking. She was not going to do what Amelia wanted. She knew if she broke up with Jim, he would be devastated. They had been best friends since the day they met and she would not hurt him that way.

Amelia grabbed her a second time and spun her around.

“You better do this or I can guarantee you will not like what happens.”

“No,” Trixie mouthed.

“You are going to defy me?”

Trixie nodded.

Before Amelia could say anything, Trixie walked past her picking up her pace. She was halfway up the small incline when she was shoved from behind. She fell forward down the rocky edge of the eighth fairway, the stones cutting into her hands.

“You will do as I say!” Amelia yelled.

Amelia suddenly jumped on Trixie, forcing her to the grass. They clung to one another as they rolled across the green. Trixie would have Amelia pinned one moment and then the next she would be down. She tried to break Amelia’s grasp, but she had a strength Trixie never expected.

The rolling continued and Trixie released a silent scream as they tumbled into the small pond.

They broke apart for just a moment and Trixie attempted to reach the side and climb out. She had just begun to climb out when her feet were yanked under the water. She slid back in and a moment later her head was being pushed below the surface.

Trixie reached up to get the hands off her head, but she couldn’t get free. Her frantic movements slowed as she could no longer hold her breath.

She had one last thought as she started to sink. I’m sorry, Jim.

 

To be continued….