Mary Beth's Adventures In & Out Of Marriage Ch. 2
Sorry it's taken me so long to answer your last letter Jeb. It shook me up when I got that call from the prison about your little "accident" (I hope it wasn't my letter that caused it!). I always told you not to get so upset over things that you can't control. I'm glad to hear you're feeling better though, and that God is such a source of strength for you once again.
Once again, the most amazing thing happened to me! One thing or another keeps coming up. A big reason I still haven't made it out to see you is that I've taken a day job, so Saturday is the only day I can make it. I really didn't need a job (what with all the money you had tucked away!). A nice man called out of the blue though, saying he was a good friend of yours (you do remember a man named Marcus, don't you hon?). He said he just lost a waitress at his nightclub, and figured I must be pretty desperate for a job, seeing as how you were locked up and all. It suddenly dawned on me that people may start wondering what I was doing for income (especially if that money of yours was stolen!). I quickly agreed to meet him the next day at his club, and thanked him for thinking of me.
Jeb, you know how hard it is to find work around these parts since the auto plant shut down last year! I checked the want ads in our newspaper (which reminds me, collection day should be coming up pretty soon!). The only listings were for fast food or construction type jobs. You remember what a good waitress I used to be. I made real good money in tips, and got to meet lots of people. It sounded like a better idea the more I thought about it!
I had lunch with Helen that same day. We've developed a pretty close relationship. She confessed that she had also been in an abusive relationship, and that counseling others had really helped in her recovery. When I mentioned possibly returning to work, she thought it was a great idea! She believes it is vital to make a clean break from all past routines, and start out fresh with a new life. That is part of the reason she had me file those divorce papers which you mentioned (by the way, you should start addressing your letters to my maiden name).
She asked me when the interview was. "Oh good, we have time then!" she said, after I told her not till the next day. "I want you over to my house at eleven a.m. sharp!" Seeing my puzzled expression, she smiled. "I was a beautician up until my divorce. I want to treat you to the works! First, a facial..." she said, counting the fingers off on her hand. "Second, the spa....third, a mineral bath and soak..... Fourth, a hair-style..... Fifth, a manicure.... and we'll finish it off with your make-up!" I was speechless. "I don't know what to say! I'm not going to put you to all that trouble just for me" I answered. "Nonsense, I insist! Believe me, I'm going to enjoy it as much as you do. I could use the practice. I won't listen to any more arguments!" She gave me directions to her house, and reminded me to bring along whatever I had picked out for the interview, in case I ran short of time. We gave each other a big hug before leaving the restaurant. "I just don't know how to thank you, you've been such a great friend!" I said as we parted company. "Don't worry, I'll think of something!" she answered and touched my hand before leaving.
I was so excited Jeb, honestly! As I worked my way home through our subdivision, I saw Tommy walking along the sidewalk with a couple of his friends. I have to admit feeling a tiny bit guilty over what had happened. I know you will understand my wanting to make it up with him! I pulled alongside, and rolled down the window. I was pleased when his face lit right up. "Hi Tommy! So when's collection day?" I said with a smile. "Two day's mam, always the first Friday of the month!" he answered, as one of his friends gave him a playful push towards the car. "If you show up around noon, there just may be some extra lunch waiting!" I said with a wink. I gave him a wave and pulled away. I smiled as I saw him exchanging high fives with his buddies in the rear view mirror.