Part 8

When Trixie arrived in Iowa, she was able to get the manager at the station to call her uncle. She waited patiently for him to arrive. When he stepped into the station, he immediately moved toward her. He pulled her into his arms and held her close.

“Why are you here, sweetie? Why are you here?” Andrew asked as he held her. “What was so bad that made you leave your home?”

Trixie cried as she held onto him. She knew he asked those questions because he cared.

He leaned back and she could see the tears in his eyes. She mouthed, “I’m sorry.”

“It’s all right,” Andrew said, as he pulled her close again. “Everything is okay. I’m just glad you’re here and you’re safe.” He leaned back again. “Come on. Let’s get out of here and we’ll go to the farm. When we get there, you can fill me on what’s happened.”

With his arm wrapped around her shoulder, they exited the station and made their way to his truck.

The ride to the farm was silent and Trixie just looked at the scenery as it passed by. The closer she got to the farm, the better she felt. It seemed as if she was leaving behind a heavy weight.

When they arrived, Andrew parked the truck near the house. He grabbed her bag and they went inside together. She was surprised not to see Mrs. Gorman in the kitchen.

“She and Mr. Gorman are visiting family in Tennessee for a couple weeks,” Andrew said, sensing her confusion as he set her bag down on the floor by the kitchen table. “They’ll be back at the end of the month.”

Trixie nodded.

“Trixie, can you tell me why you made your way here? I mean, I don’t mind you coming, but I don’t understand why you decided to come here.”

Trixie reached into her bag and pulled out an envelope. She had written the letter on the ride knowing she had to explain everything to her uncle so that he understood her reasoning. She handed him the envelope and then sat down as he started to read.

She watched as he flipped through the pages, taking in all the words that were written. When he finished, he sat down and looked at her across the table.

“I’m sorry things got so out of hand,” Andrew said. “I so wish I could’ve brought you out here after Christmas so that you could have avoided all this.”

“It’s okay,” Trixie mouthed. “This isn’t your fault.”

“We need to let your parents know that you’re here,” Andrew said.

Trixie pulled out her notebook and quickly wrote. “They know this is where I was going. I left them a note and told them you would call them when I got here so that they would know I was safe.”

“Do they know why you left?”

Trixie nodded. “I left them a note telling them why I was leaving and where I was going.”

“I’ll call them right now,” Andrew said and moved toward the phone.

Trixie watched as he dialed the phone and moved back to the table. This time he sat down next to her and wrapped his arm around her shoulder. “Peter, it’s Andrew.” He paused. “Yeah, she’s here. She’s right by my side. She’s all right.” He paused again. “She did explain to me why she came and while I may think she may have gone about it the wrong way, her reasoning is right. What is happening is just getting worse without an end in sight. Nothing is being done for it to stop. And since that’s the case, what’s wrong with her going someplace where she can start fresh and maybe, just maybe, be able to be a normal teenager.”

“This doesn’t concern you!” Trixie heard her father yell through the phone.

She began to feel guilty for putting her uncle in this position. She knew her father was upset and really didn’t understand why she had left. She knew she was putting a rift between her father and his brother and she wasn’t going to allow that.

Trixie pulled her notebook over and wrote, “Tell Dad that I won’t be staying here.”

“You’re not leaving here,” Andrew said. “Even if your father doesn’t understand, I do. I offered to bring you out here after the holidays because you don’t deserve to be treated this way. And after the mayor tried to buy your family off, I knew this wasn’t going to end any time soon.”

“Put Trixie on the phone!” Peter yelled.

Andrew lowered the phone and hit the button for the speakerphone. “She’s listening, Peter.”

“Trixie, sweetheart, running away is not the way to handle this problem,” Peter said. “This is something that needs to be addressed. When you come back, this will still be here waiting for you. You need to face it head on and show them that they aren’t getting to you.”

Trixie began writing and Andrew said, “I’m going to read what she’s writing.”

“Fine,” Peter said.

“You don’t understand that this is not going to stop. How can I stay there when I can’t trust anyone? It seems as if more people keep turning on me and I don’t know who I can trust anymore. Everyone seems to want to hurt me and I don’t want to be hurt any more. I had to leave.”

“Sweetheart, we can get through this. We can if we do this as a family.”

“Family? What family?” Andrew read her words. “We don’t have a family any more. My two oldest brothers don’t trust me and what’s even worse, they are the ones playing roles to help hurt me. How I can I feel safe when they are the ones stabbing me in the back and putting me in the lion’s den? I’m sorry, Dad, but I can’t be in Sleepyside anymore. And if you don’t want me to stay here, then that’s fine.”

“What are you talking about? What have Brian and Mart done?”

“Ask Mart what he knew about my visit to Di’s. Maybe he’ll be willing to tell you the truth.”

Peter sighed. “I’m just thinking about what is the best for you, Trixie. I wish there was something we could do to make sure that this ends.”

“She knows that, Peter,” Andrew said. “Why don’t we take a few days and see if we can come up with something that’ll work for everyone.”

“All right,” Peter said. “But I definitely want her checking in everyday,”

“We will,” Andrew said. “I think a couple days away from all the chaos will get that sparkle back into Trixie’s beautiful blue eyes.”

“I hope so. I miss that sparkle,” Peter said.

“Thank you, Dad.”

“You’re welcome, sweetheart. You take care and if you need anything at all, just have Andrew give us a call.”

“We got it,” Andrew said.

“Take care of her.”

“I will.”

“We’ll talk to you later,” Peter said and the call was ended.

Andrew turned the phone off and set it on the table. He looked at Trixie and said, “I get the feeling that more has happened since I saw you at Christmas.”

Trixie nodded.

“Well, we can talk about it later,” Andrew said. “You’re probably hungry after that long ride and it’s getting close to dinnertime anyway.”

“Is there something I can do to help?” Trixie wrote.

“There is soup on the stove that’s simmering,” Andrew said. “All we need to do is dish it up and we’re good to go.”

Over the next several days, Trixie seemed to get some of the twinkle back in her eyes. She felt safe and comfortable at her uncle’s farm. Each day she would offer her services to do whatever her uncle needed help with.

The weekend quickly arrived and on Saturday, Trixie slowly opened her eyes and was surprised when she finally looked at the clock. It was mid-morning. She was shocked that her uncle had not woken her to help with chores around the farm.

She quickly got showered and dressed. Stepping into the kitchen, she saw a note on the kitchen table. “Pancakes and sausage in oven. Uncle Andrew.”

Trixie quickly ate the breakfast he had prepared and then made her way outside. She headed over to the barn and saw he was inside taking care of a couple of sheep. As she moved over to him, he looked up.

“Look who finally decided to climb out of bed,” he said with a grin.

Trixie smiled. She handed him the dry erase board she kept with her so that she could communicate.

“I didn’t wake you because you were sleeping peacefully,” Andrew answered. “You looked as if there was nothing bothering you and I knew you haven’t had a lot of stress-free sleep, so I thought you deserved the chance to get as much uninterrupted sleep as you could.”

Trixie leaned over and gave him a hug. When she leaned back, she mouthed, “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

Trixie retrieved her board and wrote, “What do you need me to do?”

“I think we’re in pretty good shape,” Andrew answered. “I did want to talk to you about something.”

Trixie nodded, encouraging him to continue.

“I actually have a friend who was going to come by tonight, but I didn’t want to just throw this at you,” Andrew said. “I can call and cancel.”

Trixie shook her head. She quickly wrote, “Don’t do that because I’m here. Go ahead and have your friend over. I can stay in my room so you don’t have to be disturbed.”

“You don’t have to do that,” Andrew said. “I’d like you to meet her. She’s really special and is someone who means something to me.”

“I don’t want to intrude,” Trixie wrote.

“You wouldn’t be,” Andrew said.

“All right,” Trixie wrote. “Well, if we’re going to have company, then I better go take a dust rag to the house. We don’t want it looking like a mess when your friend arrives.”

“Fair enough,” Andrew said.

Trixie left the barn and returned to the house. As much as she complained about dusting, it wasn’t that difficult a chore. She also wanted the house to look nice for the visitor. She knew Mrs. Gorman did a lot of the housework and figured since she had left, her uncle had not done a bit of cleaning.

Just before dinner, Trixie heard a vehicle pulling up to the house and saw a woman step out. The woman was wearing a long coat. Trixie caught a glimpse of a gray skirt that went to her knees.

She watched her uncle exit the barn and make his way toward the woman. They embraced and then turned toward the house. Trixie let out a breath and couldn’t understand why she was feeling nervous.

Andrew opened the door and ushered his visitor into the house. She smiled at Trixie who returned the greeting.

“Trixie, I would like to introduce you to Elisa Moore. Elisa, this is my niece, Trixie.”

Elisa reached out her hand to shake Trixie’s. “It is so nice to finally meet you. Your uncle talks about you and your other cousins constantly.”

Trixie handed her the board where she had already written, “It is nice to meet you too.”

“Let me take your coat, Elisa,” Andrew said. “And if my senses are working correctly, I think dinner is just about ready.”

Trixie nodded.

“Then let’s eat,” Elisa said. “What can I do to help?”

With the three of them working, they quickly got the food to the table and settled in to eat. Once dinner was over, they cleared the tables and then retreated to the living room.

Elisa and Andrew were seated on the couch and Trixie had claimed the recliner. “Andrew told me about what you’ve been through back home and I’m shocked at what other people will go to in order to hurt someone else.”

Trixie looked at the floor.

“Trixie, I want to help,” Elisa continued. “I don’t think your uncle told you, but I’m a psychologist. I don’t think you deserve what’s happened to you. From what Andrew said, you have always had strength to do whatever you thought was right. I also think that you need to fight this. You need to show the people who are responsible that you won’t be walked all over. You need to let them know that what they are doing is wrong and that they need to be punished for it.”

Trixie wrote on her board. “Nothing will happen because of who her father is. He has already tried to buy our silence. And how can I go back when every person in Sleepyside seems to turn on me? I can’t live like that. I can’t go back and deal with that.”

Elisa leaned back on the couch and sighed. “I guess you aren’t as strong as your uncle said. I can see the fire in your eyes and the strength of your convictions, but from what you’ve written, it seems as if you aren’t a fighter anymore.”

There was a moment of silence. Elisa looked at Andrew. “I think I’m going to go. I have an early appointment on Monday and I need to spend tomorrow getting ready.”

“All right,” Andrew said. “I’ll walk you out.”

Elisa looked at Trixie. “It was nice to meet you, Trixie. If you ever want to talk, you can call me.”

Elisa and Andrew left the living room. As Trixie sat there, she felt a sense of anger wash over her.

How dare she say that about me? She thought. She doesn’t even know me. She has no clue as to what I’ve been going through for months. There is no way to go back and be the bigger person. There have been so many rumors and there is no one way to squash them. I would love to show them that what has been done to me is wrong and that those who are responsible need to pay for what they are doing. But how do I do that? How do I go back and show the entire student population of Sleepyside Junior-Senior High School that I have been the victim of Amelia and her friends? She has so many people who will be at her beck and call and if she wants something done, all she has to do is ask them. The problems will not stop. I guess this is just a no win situation.

Over the next couple days, Trixie couldn’t get what Elisa had said out of her mind. For some reason, the comments about her being a fighter kept ringing through her head and she couldn’t shake them. She knew that for as long as she could remember, she wouldn’t let anything stand in her way if she wanted something. She would push as hard as she could no matter what anyone said. She was a fighter.

One evening, Trixie made her way down the kitchen to get a drink. She had been up in her room reading. As she approached the kitchen, she heard her uncle talking on the phone.

“Peter, I really think this was good for her,” Andrew said. “She seems to be getting some of her spunk back.” He paused. “I know you said she was healing, but I think it was just the physical injuries. I honestly think this change has allowed her to regroup emotionally and mentally. I mean, I saw a smile on her face that brought the twinkle back to her eyes. She seemed like she was on her way to being our Trixie again.”

Andrew paused. “I think that if we force her to go back, it might just ruin any progress she’s made. I think she has to decide when she’s ready to return to Sleepyside.” He paused again. “I honestly think she’s beginning the road to a full recovery and that the Trixie we know and love will be back.”

Trixie moved away and silently returned to her room. She didn’t want to eavesdrop, but she knew that her uncle was right. She was feeling better and even what Elisa had said made sense. She was a fighter and she never let anyone walk all over her.

She knew the fight had been scared out of her. She realized it was the fear of what Amelia could do to her because of her family and wealth that had her worried. She didn’t have the resources or even the foggiest idea what Amelia was thinking. She didn’t trust Amelia because it seemed as if Amelia got whatever she wanted no matter what it was. She honestly couldn’t understand why Amelia was so determined to have Jim as her boyfriend. It seemed as if she didn’t care what the other person wanted just so long as she was happy. And Trixie knew that wasn’t a way to live.

This was what she thought about over the next several days.

Trixie left her room and went in search of her uncle. She found him in the kitchen, getting a cup of coffee. He heard her approach and turned to smile at her. “What are you up to?”

Trixie wrote, “Would it be all right if I borrowed your computer for a little while? I want to talk to Jim?”

“Go right ahead,” Andrew said. “Shoot your parents an e-mail too, so they know you’re all right. I haven’t had the chance to talk to them yet today.”

Trixie nodded and headed off to the computer. She quickly logged onto her e-mail account and sent the e-mail to her parents. She checked her buddy list and saw that Jim was logged on.

Shamus1: Jim, are you there?

JWFrayne2: Trixie! How are you?

Shamus1: I’m okay. I’m sorry.

JWFrayne2: What do you have to be sorry about? You didn’t do anything.

Shamus1: I’m sorry for the way I left. I should have talked to you.

JWFrayne2: It’s all right, Trix. This is not your fault. I understand. Really I do.

Shamus1: I just feel bad.

JWFrayne2: Please don’t. If I was in the same situation, I would do the same thing.

Shamus1: Thanks, Jim.

JWFrayne2: So, tell me what you’ve been doing. It’s really quiet here without you.

Shamus1: It’s been quiet here. I’ve been helping Uncle Andrew on the farm since the Gormans are gone right now.

JWFrayne2: It sounds like you’re feeling better.

Shamus1: I feel pretty good.

JWFrayne2: Trix, it’s Dan. I was here when you IM’d and just wanted to say HI.

Shamus1: DAN! How are you?

JWFrayne2: I’m okay. I’m glad you sent the message. It’s good to hear from you.

Shamus1: It’s nice to hear from you too.

JWFrayne2: I know you want to talk to Jim so I will book it. When you get a chance, drop me a line.

Shamus1: Do you have to? I want to talk and with both of you there, it will be easier.

JWFrayne2: Dan is sticking around, Trix. Go ahead when you are ready.

Trixie took a breath and then started typing.

Shamus1: While I’ve been here, I’ve been thinking about everything that I’ve been through. It’s not right, the things that have been done to me. I know that in the past whenever I’ve been faced with a challenge, no matter what it was, I faced it head on. But this time it was a lot different. I think it seemed so much worse because it seemed as if everyone I trusted had turned on me. I don’t know what I’ve done to deserve this.

JWFrayne2: You didn’t do anything to deserve this. You could never do anything to deserve this much hatred.

Shamus1: Thanks, Jim. But there’s more.

JWFrayne2: Go ahead.

Shamus1: The thing that I’ve finally realized is that I can’t run from this. Sure, I’m here in Iowa, but all the problems are still there in Sleepyside. The moment I step foot back there, everything will come back at me. Whether I come back tomorrow, in a week, a year or ten years, all of it will still be there.

JWFrayne2: Trixie, we will support you in whatever you decide.

Shamus1: What if I decided that I want to stay here in Iowa and never, ever return to New York.

JWFrayne2: I, no we, would miss you so much, but we would understand because this isn’t where you need to be.

Shamus1: And what if I decided that I wanted to come back and try to resume a normal life for myself?

JWFrayne2: We would welcome you home with open arms and stand by you no matter what.

Shamus1: Really?

JWFrayne2: Really. Trixie, without you here, this is just a place to live. You bring the light into our lives and we miss it.

Shamus1: Oh, Jim.

JWFrayne2: I mean every word of it. We have just been going through the motions since you left and I can guarantee you won’t leave our sight if you do come back.

Shamus1: Does Dan feel the same way?

JWFrayne2: This is Dan and yes I do. Trix, we want to support you and will do anything you need us to do. Just say the word.

Shamus1: I appreciate it. I’ll let you know what the decision is as soon as I make it.

JWFrayne2: We’ll be waiting to hear from you.

Shamus1: Thanks, guys. I’d better go. It was nice talking to you both and I’ll talk to you soon.

JWFrayne2: Take care, Trix.

JWFrayne2: Bye, Trix.

Shamus1: Bye.

Trixie logged off and leaned back in the chair. She stared at the screen and realized she was truly blessed to have Jim and Dan as her friends. She knew what Elisa had said made sense. She was a fighter and just needed to find the strength to face her adversaries head on. If she kept running, everyone who witnessed the events would know that Amelia would get away with it. But if she returned and showed that she wasn’t going to hide and submit to Amelia’s antics, then she would be the strong one and maybe others would realize that everything Amelia was doing was wrong.

This can’t be a hasty decision, she thought. I need to figure out exactly what I want because I am not going to go back and get subjected to more of this. Should I return to Sleepyside, then the ball is going to be in my court. There are going to be a lot of things that will need to change because there are too many opportunities for things to continue happening. I need to figure all this out before I even consider going back. And if I do return to Sleepyside, everyone will need to know that what has happened to me will not happen again. Everyone will need to know the truth. And if they don’t like what they hear, then they are just out of luck. The truth needs to be told and maybe everyone will wise up.

Trixie sighed as she shut the computer down. She wondered if going back was the right decision. She knew she had a lot to think about before she decided one way or the other.

Trixie thought long and hard over the next several days about what she needed to do. She knew that hiding wasn’t the answer. But she also knew that should she go back, the harassment would continue. And now she was just trying to calm her nerves as she waited for Elisa to arrive. She wanted to see if there was anything she could do to get this to stop. She hoped Elisa could offer her some advice on how to deal with all this.

“Trixie, Elisa is here!”

Letting out a breath, Trixie got off her bed and made her way downstairs, carrying her message board and a notebook.

She stepped into the living room to see Elisa settled on the couch beside Andrew. Elisa said, “It’s good to see you again, Trixie,”

“It’s good to see you too,” Trixie mouthed. “Thank you for coming.”

“What can I do for you?” Elisa asked.

Trixie looked at her message board before handing it to Elisa. She was quiet as the older woman read the written words.

Elisa finally looked up and smiled. “I think I can come up with a few suggestions that may help you, but before I do, I need to know more about what happened.”

Trixie waited just a second and then handed the notebook to Elisa. She knew everything that was contained in the pages would shed a lot of light on what she had been going through since the start of the school year. She watched as Elisa accepted the notebook and then opened it to the first page. For a couple minutes, she watched as Elisa read, but decided she didn’t want to see the look on her face when she came to some of the incidents she had already lived through.

In order to take her mind off of it, Trixie retreated to the kitchen and began preparing some snacks. She made some cookies and began placing them on a tray to take into the living room. She then began making some hot chocolate from scratch like her mother had taught her. When the drinks were ready, she poured them into mugs and set them on the tray. She then returned the living room and saw Elisa had closed the notebook and was staring off into the distance.

For a moment, Trixie felt as if Elisa would not be able to help her and that she’d shared the worst moments of her life for no reason. Trixie set the tray down and then handed Elisa and her uncle each one of the mugs. She took her own before settling in the recliner, after retrieving her message board.

“Trixie, does everyone know what’s been going on?” Elisa finally asked.

“I think so,” Trixie wrote.

“The principal and teachers?”

“Probably. They had to have heard the students talking about it.”

“Then I believe you have grounds to sue the school district because they are allowing this harassment to continue.”

“Sue?” Andrew asked.

“Bullying and harassment in schools is a hot topic because there have been too many children who are taking things into their own hands,” Elisa said.

“You mean where students are killing themselves because they feel they don’t have any other choice since no one will listen and stop it?” Andrew asked.

“There have been a few minor cases where lawyers have been brought in because of this and the situation has been resolved without going to court. The schools have seen the events taking place and when they are approached with a lawyer and a possible lawsuit, they’ve stepped up and made arrangements so that it will stop or those involved will no longer cross paths.”

“Could that work for Trixie?” Andrew asked.

“Anything can work as long as you try,” Elisa said. “I can’t say if the school board will take the situation seriously if you just approach them without legal counsel. If they know that this is what’s happening, they may try to find a way to get out of it without having to pay out a lot of money.”

“But what about the student who is allegedly involved in starting all of this?” Andrew asked. “She is associated with some pretty important people in the town. I doubt they’d let her get punished. She definitely has her father wrapped around her little finger.”

“I honestly think for things to be brought to light for everyone, having a lawyer present and going to the school board may be the best solution. This will show the board the seriousness of the situation and that it needs to be addressed. If they don’t accept that they need to play a role in making it stop, the threat of a lawsuit may make them pay closer attention.”

Andrew looked at Trixie. “From the sounds of it, this is going to be a tough battle. You’re going to have to make the decision if this is what you really want to do. This may bring this whole thing to a close, but it could also hurt you.”

“I know,” Trixie wrote.

Andrew looked at Elisa. “Do you really think that if things go the right way, that this will really come to an end in Trixie’s favor?”

“I can’t say for certain, but with what Trixie has documented in this notebook, I think the school board would see that something needs to be done to protect Trixie, and probably other students, from being treated this way.” Elisa looked at Trixie. “But if this is the path you decide to take, you’re really going to have to follow it through to the end, no matter how rough things get, even if you want to quit. This is going to be a battle and I don’t think it’ll be pretty with what you’ve told me about the other parties involved.”

“I understand,” Trixie wrote. “I just need to decide what to do. Thank you for coming and talking with me. I appreciate it.”

“Any time,” Elisa said. “If you do decide to go home, I’ll make sure you have my email so that you can keep in touch. Any time you want to talk, just drop me a line and I will try to help any way I can.”

“Thank you,” Trixie mouthed.

She got to her feet and moved over to her uncle and Elisa. She reclaimed her notebook and handed the board to her uncle. He read aloud what she had written. “I’m going to bed so you two can have some time together. Thank you both for your support.”

“Good night,” Andrew and Elisa chorused.

Trixie returned to her room and settled on the bed, leaning back against the headboard.

Elisa has given me a lot of food for thought. I know I’m not a coward. I know that what has happened needs to be addressed. I also know that when people get wind of it, there may be some backlash because they won’t believe me. But it’s time for me to get up and show her that I will not take any more of her stunts. I think I also need to stand up for all the others who may be too scared to stand up against her because they’ve been tormented for years. She needs to learn that she cannot do this to people just because she wants something. This is not the way to get it, and maybe, just maybe, she’ll get the point. I have a feeling this is going to be a long, drawn out battle, but I’ve faced worse. I’ve suffered worse at the hands of men who were truly evil and wanted nothing more than to kill me. I need to show her that Trixie Belden is a fighter and that when I put my mind to something, I get it done.

I think I know what I need to do.

Trixie closed her eyes figuring out how she was going to accomplish the task at hand.

On Friday, Trixie borrowed her uncle’s computer and tried to see if Jim was online. She wanted to see if he could meet her at the airport when she made the plans to return to Sleepyside. She tried to send him an instant message, but it went unanswered and she wondered if he was out for the evening. A feeling of worry came over her, wondering if Jim had moved on with his life since she’d left. She knew they really hadn’t made a commitment to one another and she understood that if he wanted to move on, she had to accept it.

Letting out a sigh, she realized she would just have to make plans without him. She shut off the computer and made her way up to her room. It had been a long day and she was tired. She’d done a lot of writing, trying to figure out her game plan when she returned home, and knew that everything had to be down so that she wouldn’t get flustered and her demands would be met.

She was just about to change into her pajamas when she heard a vehicle pull up to the house. She went to the window and looked down to see a cab parked in the driveway. She watched as someone climbed out of the back seat and then closed the door. The cab turned around and went down the driveway as the individual stepped onto the porch.

Trixie heard knocking on the door and left her room. She started down the stairs slowly, listening for some clue as to who had stopped by so late. No one would come by at that hour unless it was bad news.

“Are you sure your parents are okay with this?” Andrew asked.

“They’re fine,” the male voice said. “Mother and Dad thought it was a good idea.”

Trixie reached the first floor and turned the corner toward the kitchen. She stopped in her tracks as her mouth fell open in disbelief.  Standing next to her uncle was Jim, a lop-sided grin on his face.

“Hey, Trix. Surprise!”

She ran to Jim and he scooped her up in his arms, swinging her around the kitchen. Jim whispered in her ear, “I’ve missed you so much.”

Trixie squeezed Jim, hoping he understood that she felt the exact same way.

“I understand,” Jim whispered.

He finally set her down and looked at her. “I take it you like this?”

Trixie’s smile wouldn’t disappear from her face. She couldn’t believe the person she really wanted to see and talk to was standing in her uncle’s kitchen. She turned to her gaze to Andrew, hoping he would shed some light on how this came to be.

“I know what you’re thinking, but I’m going to leave that story to Jim,” Andrew said. “There are snacks and drinks set up in the living room. Go enjoy because I’m going to bed. Morning comes early around here.”

Andrew moved over to her and gave her a kiss on the cheek. He left the kitchen and headed upstairs.

Trixie turned to Jim and realized how much she had missed seeing him.

“Come on,” Jim said. “Let’s go get settled and I’ll fill you in about how I got to Iowa.”

Jim gathered his bags and they went into the living room. As Andrew promised, there were drinks and snacks from cheese and crackers to vegetables and dip on the coffee table.  They settled on the couch facing one another.

Trixie could not take her eyes off of her red-headed best friend. She felt a comfort wash over her as Jim sat next to her.

“You are so beautiful,’ Jim said, resting his arm on the back of the couch and using his hand to caress her cheek. “There is something about you that seems different. You look more beautiful than I remember.”

Trixie shifted her gaze to the cushions, feeling the color rising in her cheeks.

“You are,” Jim said as he lifted her chin with his hand, so their eyes locked. “There is an old saying, ‘Absence makes the heart grow fonder.’ And I have to admit, that is exactly how I feel. Not having you next door and seeing you every day just made me realize how important you are in my life. It showed me that you’re the one that I need to have.”

“Oh, Jim,” Trixie mouthed. “I’ve missed you too.”

“You know, I think I have something that will make this conversation a whole lot easier.”

Jim reached for one of his bags and lifted it onto the couch. He opened it and Trixie watched as he pulled out a laptop. He reached over and set it on Trixie’s lap.

“Go ahead and turn it on,” Jim said.

Trixie did as instructed and they watched as the computer programs loaded. When everything was ready, Jim had her open a specific program and said, “Go ahead and type what you want to say.”

“All right,” Trixie typed.

“All right,” came a voice from the computer.

Trixie’s eyes went wide for a second time that evening, staring at the computer. She turned her gaze to Jim, surprised to see the grin on his face.

“Let me explain,” Jim said, scooting closer to Trixie so he could access the computer as well. “This computer has been specifically designed to help you communicate. Dad spent some time with people who make computer programs for people with disabilities. This will give you a voice again. It has been programmed so that when you finish typing, it will speak the words.”

Trixie typed and the voice said, “I can’t believe it.”

“That is just one of the programs,” Jim said. “Dad made sure it would have everything you would need. It also has internet access and any program you might need to get your assignments done.”

Trixie looked at Jim for a moment and then began typing. “But why would he do this? I don’t understand.”

“Trixie, we want to make sure you have everything you need so that you can succeed,” Jim explained. “This is just something to help the process along until your voice returns.” Jim touched her cheek. “I can see how frustrated you get when you have to write everything out, but it doesn’t have any emotion behind it. This is just giving you another way to get what you want out.”

Trixie pushed the laptop to Jim as she shook her head. She couldn’t accept it. She just couldn’t. As much as doing all the writing took time to get her thoughts out, she just couldn’t take it.

“Trixie, we want you to use it,” Jim said.

Trixie shook her head as she mouthed, “No.”

“Why not?” Jim asked.

Trixie grabbed her notebook and wrote, “This is too extravagant a gift. I can’t accept it.”

“Trixie, you would be helping us by using it.”

“I don’t understand,” Trixie wrote.

Jim sighed. “This is a prototype of what the computer can do. This has been specifically set up for you. Dad wants your input as to how it works and meets your needs. There are so many people out there that could use something like this and this company is working hard so that the programs that they create meet their needs. If this works really well and you give it a positive review, Dad will probably invest more so more people can have a voice.”

“Are you sure?” Trixie wrote.

Jim nodded. “I’m sure. And if you don’t trust my word, you can always talk to Dad. He wants to hear from someone who really could use this, instead of the developers and programmers. They know how it works and can tell interested parties exactly what they need to hear. But if you tell him how it works, then it will mean more to him because you are impartial.”

Trixie looked at Jim. She understood what he was saying. She did think the computer would make her life a lot easier. She reached for the laptop and typed.

“All right,” the voice said.

Jim smiled. “Thank you.”

“So, are you going to show me what else this thing can do?”

“Sure, but do you recognize that voice?”

“It sounds familiar, but I can’t place it.”

“It’s your voice,” Jim said.

She looked at him in disbelief.

Jim nodded. “That is another feature of this. For those people who end up losing their voices, this program will replicate their voice. It can be taken from any recording device and gives it a bit of personality.”

“This is amazing,” the voice said. “This will definitely be a help when I return to Sleepyside.”

“You’re coming back?”

“I am. I’ve been giving this a lot of thought and it’s time for me to return to Sleepyside. I’ve never been one to back down from a challenge and if Amelia thinks she can get away with this behavior, then she’s in for a battle.”

“I’ll stand beside you, Trix. This hasn’t been right and I’m ready to see her get the punishment she deserves for the stunts she’s pulled.”

“Jim, you might not want to stand beside me. I think this is going to get really ugly.”

“You don’t have to do this alone. I’ve been there when this has been happening and I’m not going to turn my back on you. We’ve been through too much together and I’m not backing down either. Just tell me what you need me to do and I’ll do it.”

“I appreciate it, Jim. But with what’s going to happen when I return to Sleepyside, you might want to stay away.”

“It’s not going to happen,” Jim said. “No matter what, I’m in this with you.”

Trixie smiled. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

“So, show me what else I can do with this.”

For the next hour, Jim showed Trixie the different features of the laptop and pointed out the ones that were added to help the most. Trixie was amazed at how much was programmed onto the small computer and knew she would use everything provided for her.

“So, what do you think?” Jim asked when he finished.

“This is amazing. I think it’ll definitely help me in the coming days and weeks. Thank you so much for this.”

“It’s my pleasure,” Jim said and tried to stifle a yawn. “Sorry. It’s been a long day.”

Trixie glanced at the time on her laptop and saw that it was after midnight, which meant it was even later in New York.

“We should probably call it a night too,” Trixie typed. “Like Uncle Andrew said, morning comes early.”

“And I’ve been up since dawn,” Jim said and tried to stifle another yawn.

“Then we should go to bed. I’ll show you to one of the guest rooms.”

Trixie shut down the computer. Together they cleaned up the remaining snacks and put the dirty dishes in the sink. After making sure the door was locked and the lights were turned off, they made their way upstairs. Trixie stepped into one room and turned the lights on.

“Thanks, Trixie,” Jim sad.

Trixie turned to Jim with a smile on her face. She leaned over and gave him a kiss on the cheek. When she leaned back, she mouthed, “Thank you.”

With the grin still in place, she left the room, closing the door behind her.

The next morning, Trixie was up early even though she had been up into the wee hours of the morning with Jim. She made the coffee for her uncle when he came downstairs and then settled herself at the table with the lap top and began checking out the programs.

She heard her uncle coming down the stairs and prepared to greet him. Andrew entered the kitchen, heading straight for the coffee pot and said, “Good morning, Trixie.”

“Good morning,” Trixie responded.

Andrew spun around and stared at her, some of the coffee sloshing out of the mug onto the counter. “You spoke.”

“Not really,” Trixie typed and the computer spoke.

Andrew moved over to the table and Trixie explained to him about the computer. She let him know how it was a prototype that Matthew Wheeler was thinking about investing in and that he needed her honest opinion as to how well it worked.

“What an amazing opportunity,” Andrew said. “And it has your voice.”

“Jim said that is one of the unique features that the company has created. If someone loses their voice, like me, and that there is a tape or something of their voice, then they can duplicate it so that with this program it is their voice.”

“I like it,” Andrew said.

“And it has everything I may need.”

“I think it’s nice that Matthew Wheeler trusts you so much to give him a review of a product under consideration for financial support.”

“I know. And I want to make sure I use it as much as possible so that I can be honest with him as to how it works and if there are any areas that need improvement.”

“I’m quite sure you’ll be thorough.”

“Thanks,” Trixie said. “So, what do you want for breakfast?”

“How about eggs and bacon?” Andrew suggested.

“That sounds good,” Trixie said. “I should have that ready in a bit.”

“All right,” Andrew said and gave her a kiss on the top of her head. “I’ll be back in shortly.”

“Okay.”

Just as the food was being set on the table, her uncle returned to the house. As she took the last of the scrambled eggs off the stove, she heard footsteps coming down the stairs and knew Jim was up.

He entered the kitchen and said, “Morning.”

“Morning, Jim,” Andrew said. “How did you sleep?”

“Great,” Jim said. “That was the best sleep I’ve had in weeks.”

“It’s probably the fresh air,” Andrew said. He motioned for Jim to take a seat. “Go ahead and help yourself.”

“Thank you,” Jim said, sliding into a seat beside Trixie. “This looks delicious.”

“It is,” Andrew said. “My niece is a marvelous cook.”

Jim looked at Trixie. “You made breakfast?”

Trixie nodded.

“Then it must be good,” Jim said and began scooping some scrambled eggs onto his plate.

They ate breakfast and then Andrew headed back outside to get busy on his chores. Trixie cleared the table and began the dishes. Jim grabbed a towel and dried them. Within a short time, the dishes were done and the kitchen was clean.

“We make a good team,” Jim said, hanging the towel on the rack to dry.

Trixie smiled at Jim. She couldn’t stop smiling. It seemed so perfect for Jim to be there and she felt confident about her decision to return to Sleepyside and fight for what was right.

Trixie moved over to Jim and wrapped her arms around him. He enclosed her in his embrace and held her right. She believed that whatever she did in the days and weeks to come, no matter how hard it seemed, she would have Jim by her side.

“You will get through this,” Jim said. “You will. And I’ll be with you every step of the way.”

Trixie leaned back and looked Jim in the eye. “Thank you.”

Jim nodded. “Anytime.”

Trixie took several deep breaths as the car sped along Glen Road. She was nervous about going home to Crabapple Farm. She had felt so calm and relaxed in Iowa, but now that she was back in New York heading for home, the nerves seemed to be picking up.

It had been an enjoyable time with her uncle and she hated to leave. But Trixie and Andrew knew she needed to go back home and face the problems that were waiting. If she didn’t, it would always be there, waiting to strike her the moment she stepped foot into the town. Trixie felt it was easier to face it head on, instead of being blindsided.

Andrew made her promise before their flight left that should she need him, or Elisa, for anything, that she would call and they would be there as soon as possible. And she vowed she would. She knew she had support and if things got out of hand, there were people she could count on.

“You okay?” Jim asked.

Trixie turned and looked at him. He reached over and took her hand in his. “Relax, Trixie. You’re fine and everything will be okay.”

Trixie sighed. He sounded so positive, but she didn’t feel that way.

She felt the car turn and saw the farmhouse she grew up in come into view. There were lights on in the kitchen and living room. Both of her parent’s cars along with Brian’s jalopy were parked in front of the garage. It seemed as if everyone was home.

The car came to a stop and Jim turned to her. “You ready?”

Trixie took a breath and nodded.

Jim opened the door and climbed out of the back seat before offering Trixie his hand. He helped her out. Once out, she stood by the door, staring at the dwelling. Jim retrieved their bags from the trunk and then stood next to her.

Trixie looked up at Jim and then took his hand in hers. Together they began walking toward the house as the car backed out of the driveway. Trixie could feel her heart pounding in her chest the closer she got to the door, but she knew this was the first step she needed to take to regain control of her life.

They stepped inside the kitchen door and saw Helen as she turned away from the counter.

“Trixie!” Helen exclaimed as she moved to her daughter and pulled her into a hug.

The hug made Trixie feel safe and she returned it.

“I’ve missed you so much,” Helen said and then leaned back to look at her daughter. “You look so much better. I’m so glad you’re home.”

“I’m glad to be home,” Trixie mouthed.

“Your father is in the living room,” Helen said. “Go to him.”

Trixie glanced at Jim who nodded. She made her way to the living room with Jim following close behind. She stepped through the doorway and saw her father was sitting in his chair reading the paper. He had no idea she was there. She looked at Jim, wondering how she would get his attention.

Jim cleared his throat and Peter lowered the paper. His eyes went wide. Peter dropped the paper to the floor as he scrambled to his feet. He hurried to her and grabbed her in a tight hug. “My Trixie,” Peter said. “I’m so glad you’re home, sweetheart.”

Trixie hugged him back, realizing how much she had missed him. She turned her head and gave him a kiss on the check.

When he finally released her, he looked at Jim. “Thank you for bringing her home.”

“I didn’t bring her home,” Jim said. “She was ready to come on her own. I just kept her company.”

“Thank you for keeping her company,” Peter said.

“My pleasure,” Jim said. “Trixie was hoping that she could talk to you and Mrs. Belden.”

“I’m right here,” Helen said.

“Let’s sit down,” Peter said.

Trixie and Jim settled on the couch as Peter and Helen got comfortable in the chairs. Trixie pulled out the laptop and turned it on. 

As it was powering up, Jim said, “This laptop is going to help Trixie communicate. My father is thinking of investing in this company and wanted to get an impartial view as to how it works.”

Trixie took a breath when everything was ready and began typing. She wasn’t sure how her parents were going to respond to what she had to say, but it was something that had to be done.

“There is a lot I need to tell you,” the voice said as Trixie typed. “I hope you will let me get out what I need to say before you ask any questions.”

“That’s fine,” Peter said.

Trixie stared at the monitor for a couple minutes, trying to figure out where to start. She had so much to tell them and knew that some of the things would be an issue.

“I guess the biggest thing that I think you both need to know is that I plan to talk to a lawyer because being harassed is not right and I don’t think I’m the only one that has been treated this way. I’ve been given the name and number of a lawyer who would be willing to help me. I plan to go to the school board with these issues, with the lawyer, to make sure they stop. I know that when I do that, things are going to get ugly. More people are going to turn on me because they’ll think I’m doing this just to get publicity, but that’s not the case. I’m a victim and no one  deserves to be treated this way. This needs to stop and if I can do something so that everyone gets the picture that this is wrong, then everyone will win. I know this may make things harder for everyone in the family, but I can’t sit back and let it go. I can’t.”

Trixie looked over at her parents. She saw they were watching her intently. She couldn’t read their expressions.

“I don’t want to cause more trouble for anyone, but if I don’t do something about this, I’m quite certain these things will continue to occur. I don’t want that and I can’t have that.”

“Trixie, we will support you in whatever choice you make,” Peter finally said. “We didn’t push this issue with you before because we really didn’t think you were ready for the fight. You were trying to recover from your injuries from the accident as well as the emotional stuff that was going on. And if this is what you want to do, we’ll stand beside you.”

“This is going to be a major fight,” Helen said.

“I know,” Trixie typed. “And it’s going to get ugly when she realizes that I’m not going to put with this anymore. When the lawyers get involved, she is going to know that I’m serious about this stopping.”

“What made you come to this decision now?” Peter asked.

“I was talking with Uncle Andrew and his friend Elisa and she said something that reminded me of who I am and that no matter how tough something gets, whether it is a case or a project, I always see it through to the end. And that has to be the case now.”

“After you talk to the lawyer, what is the next play in the game plan?” Helen asked.

“Once I talk with the lawyer, then the school board and Principal Stratton will be approached. I have a right to go to school without being tormented by fellow students. Principal Stratton and the rest of the teachers must have heard about what is going on and since they have done nothing to stop it, they’re at fault as well.”

“We’ll go with you,” Peter said. “You just tell us when and where.”

“Dad, this may cause some problems for you at work,” Trixie typed. “Your boss may not like that I’m fighting the mayor’s daughter.”

“If my boss doesn’t like it, then he has the problem,” Peter said. “Family comes first and I stand by you.”

Trixie smiled at her father.

“So do I,” Helen said.

“As do I,” Jim said. “And if there is anything you need, I know for certain Mother and Dad will do all that they can.”

Trixie smiled at Jim. It seemed as if things were looking up for her. The people who really and truly cared for her were willing to stand by her, knowing the battle to come wasn’t going to pretty.

She heard footsteps on the driveway and felt a sense of trouble coming their way. The kitchen door opened and closed. The footsteps approached the living room. They all turned as Brian and Mart stepped into the living room.

“Trixie!” Mart exclaimed. “You’re home!”

He started to move toward her, but she quickly got to her feet and moved away from him. She knew she would be in the presence of her brothers, but she hadn’t anticipated seeing them so soon.

“Trix, I want to welcome you home,” Mart said.

Trixie shook her head, moving to stand behind her father. She couldn’t deal with her brother right then. She still recalled how he had set her up and no matter how warm his greeting was, she still couldn’t trust him.

“Mart, Brian, why don’t you two give us some time with Trixie,” Peter said. “There are some things we need to talk to her about.”

“All right,” Mart said slowly, eyeing her for a moment. He turned and left the room following Brian up the stairs.

Once she heard the footsteps enter their bedroom on the second floor, she let out a breath and closed her eyes. She felt her heart hammering in her chest. She couldn’t believe the reaction she had to seeing her brother.

“You will be fine,” a voice said in her ear.

She opened her eyes and turned her head to see her father was standing beside her. He put his hand on her shoulder and pulled her close. “Sweetheart, we know what happened that day. We know why you went to Iowa and we understand. Believe me, we take what happened that day seriously and will stand by you in this. We love you, Trixie.”

Trixie turned and hugged her father. She felt safe in his arms. She felt that she could get through this with her parents by her side. She felt another pair of arms wrap around her and knew it was her mother.

“Well, since you seem to be all set, I’m going to head home,” Jim said. “I unfortunately have school in the morning.”

Trixie looked at Jim and saw the smile on his face. She felt her parents loosen their hold and she moved over to Jim. He stood up and welcomed her into his arms.

“You’ll be fine,” Jim whispered into her ear. “Your parents are here and they know what has gone on. They’ll do all they can so that you won’t be subjected to it again. Talk to them if you feel the need. They’ll help you.”

Trixie leaned back and looked him in the eye. She mouthed, “I will.”

“Good.” Jim kissed her forehead. “I will see you tomorrow after school, okay?”

Trixie nodded.

Jim released her and looked at the elder Beldens. “Good night.”

“Good night, Jim,” Peter said. “Thank you for accompanying her home.”

Jim smiled.  “It was my pleasure.”

Trixie watched Jim make his way out of the living room. She heard the kitchen door close and knew Jim was gone.

Helen moved over to Trixie and draped an arm around the teenager’s shoulder.  “Trixie, what do you need us to do right now?”

Trixie turned to face her mother. She mouthed, “Love me.”

“Always,” Helen said, pulling her close. “Always.”

Trixie was home.

Two days later, Trixie was in White Plains with her parents. The lawyer agreed to meet them there at an associate’s office instead of having them come into the city. Trixie could feel the butterflies in her stomach at the thought of this meeting and was a bit worried that maybe he wouldn’t be able to help them and she would be subjected to more torment at school.

“Mr. and Mrs. Belden, Ms. Belden,” the secretary said. “Mr. Richmond will see you now.”

“Thank you,” Peter said and the three of them stood up.

The secretary moved over to the conference room door and opened it for them. The three of them stepped inside and she closed the door behind them.

Drew Richmond wore a gray suit with a white shirt and a maroon tie. His dark brown hair was peppered with a few strands of silver at the hairline. He looked up at them through his thin-rimmed glasses and smiled. “Please come in and have a seat.”

They settled at the table across from him with Trixie sandwiched between her parents. She quickly pulled out the laptop and powered it up so that she could communicate without having to write.

“How are you all doing today?” Drew asked.

“We’re all right,” Peter answered. “A little anxious to see if there is anything we can do to make this stop.”

Drew leaned back in his chair and looked at each of them in turn. “I have read the initial information provided and I have a few questions.”

“Go ahead,” Peter said.

Drew looked at Trixie. “You’ve given me a lot of information and I want to clarify a few things to make sure I understand them correctly.”

Trixie nodded.

“All right,” Drew said looking at his notes. “On the day you found the poster on your locker, you reported that there was a crowd of students in the hall in that vicinity. Do you recall seeing any teachers in the area?”

Trixie closed her eyes and pictured that day as she went to her locker. The crowd was huge and she could see several teachers standing in the hallway talking, a few feet away from the crowd. Their backs were to her locker, but a couple of them turned to look at the group, but returned to the conversation at hand.

Trixie opened her eyes and began typing. “There were several teachers in the hallway. They had their backs to the gathering crowd. A couple did turn to look, but they never moved to see what had the students’ attention. At least they didn’t that I saw, but I was busy.”

“At any time did you go to the principal to address the situation?” Drew asked.

Trixie shook her head. “I didn’t. I didn’t want to involve any one else because her father is the mayor and I knew that nothing would happen. It seemed as if because her father has power, nothing would stop her.”

“Tell me about what happened the night the mayor came to your house after of Mr. Wheeler called.”

“I’m not positive what transpired between the mayor and his daughter,” Trixie typed.

“What happened to bring the mayor there in the first place?”

“Jim Frayne and I were settled on the couch in our living room. It was the night of the winter ball at our school and since I had been injured, there was no way for me to go. Jim wanted to spend the evening with me, so we decided to watch movies.  We heard the kitchen door open and then my brothers and their dates came into the house. My brothers entered the room and my oldest brother pulled Jim off the couch and started hitting him. My parents were able to get him off of Jim and sent my brothers upstairs. When they realized Jim was hurt, they called our doctor as well as Jim’s parents. After that, the mayor’s daughter came in and started making comments about me as she talked to Jim. At one point, she did say she put the poster up, but quickly tried to cover it up by saying she didn’t. Jim’s father came in and then called her father. When the mayor arrived, he pulled his daughter aside to talk to her. What they said to one another is anyone’s guess, because it was just them in the room. When they went into the den, I asked my dad to take me to the hospital. I knew no matter what happened in that room, it wouldn’t change anything.”

“And then on Christmas, a certified letter came, correct?”

“Yes,” Peter answered. “It included a check: a certified check. We were flabbergasted and knew that the mayor was trying to buy our silence.”

“Why didn’t you proceed with this back then?” Drew asked.

“We left it up to Trixie,” Helen answered. “She was quite certain that if we pushed the issue, things would get worse for her. As much as we wanted to fight this, we knew we had to let her set the pace. At the time, she was still healing physically and hadn’t even dealt with the emotional side of all this. As much as we wanted to prosecute the girl for her behavior, we were focused on our daughter.”

“What made you decide that now was the time to address these issues?” Drew asked.

“I was reminded about the person I am,” Trixie typed. “I’ve never been one to back down from anything. Even when people have told me I can’t do something, I just push harder to do it. I’ve never let anything stop me. I am a fighter. That person disappeared for a little while, but this is a battle I need to take on. I may not be the only one who is subject to this torment, but I’m the one that can do something to make it stop.”

Drew leaned back in his seated and looked at Trixie, Helen and Peter.

The three of them stared back, waiting for something.

“This case is definitely going to be a challenge,” Drew finally said.

“Is there a chance Trixie could win?” Peter asked.

Drew smiled.

TO BE CONTINUED….