I am not a writer, far from it. Except for the names and places, the stories you read are for the most part true. Still they are not biographies. Artistic license has been taken to enhance or in some cases minimize the events described. All sexual situations were between consensual adults within the framework of their story.
This is the fifth of the ten interviews I have worked on over the last three years.
Most of these stories cover several years. I will try to keep the chapters short. I suggest you save one for reference. None of the stories are mine, any personal friend, or relative.
Chapter Three.
Janice continues to find her way. James makes Janice his lover then answers the riddle.
*****
"One last item. I found this in my father's belongings in his desk. It seems to make no sense. I thought I should ask Latisha if she knows what it means. He handed a copy of the following to everyone but the lawyer.
What lies within is what you seek
Within these words secrets keep
To run around that will not do
To help your quest I leave a clue
You can see above. You can see below
When I am high. Or when I'm low
For when it rains I get not wet
To argue that I take the bet
I am happiest when here I go
If you truly see then you know
To what you seek is next in line
If you understand you're doing fine
If I were well above I rest
If not. To look below would be the best
Alas be there I am not
Instead alone I sit and rot
I find myself beneath this tree
I am losing hope and dignity
For journey's start and journey's end
If not look here or start again
For only the smartest I don't jest
To find the prize. You must stop and rest.
For upon me now most would sit
For the prize within just make a slit
We all looked at each other. No one had a clue what it meant or even if was relevant to us at all. Even the copy showed how old the original looked. Maybe it was something Harold picked up or found himself. Latisha slid it back across the table. I looked at mine and gave it back also. James took Robert's copy and ripped them up and threw it in the trash.
"I felt the same way. Just checking." James announced. "Any other questions?"
"Can we go now?" Latisha whined.
"Be my guest." James led them to the door and returned to the room.
James went immediately to the waste basket and retrieved the pieces of paper.
"Janice shred these yourself. Then come to Robert's office." James asked. I shredded the papers watching every scrap go through.
I looked at the empty chair of Mandy's wondering where she was. James and Robert were talking in the office. It was weird seeing Robert behind the desk.
"Mom..."
"Janice!" I scolded Robert.
"MOM! You will be joining Latisha the next two days as the auction company comes for inventory. You will be with her as they tag each piece. She has been put up in a hotel today until the inventory is completed. There is security on the premises as we speak." Robert explained. He sounded just like James when he took control like this.
"It's very important you act interested in anything bigger than a loaf of bread. At least pick it up and feel it. Maybe look inside. Anywhere they could hide money. Dressers. Cabinets. Hat boxes. If it's metal pick it up. Gold is heavy like lead. If you suspect anything make sure you write down the number." James added. "If you are really concerned alert security and have them take it after its tagged and they will secure it. They work for us. "
"What did that riddle mean?" I asked James.
"Ask Robert he's the boss."
"Bobby do you know?" I asked. He cringed as I called him by his nick name.
"Mom I don't?" Robert replied.
"James do you?" I knew he avoided the question. But I couldn't pass up the chance to zing Bobby.
"I'm not sure!" He grinned.
"I may not be your lover yet but I am your mother and I DO know when you are lying!" I stared him down.
"Mom! Why are you saying that out loud? I am standing right here!" Bobby cringed.
"Well your brother sent me to see Becky. She has us all but married. I figured if she knew you may as well know too!" I stared at James.
"Look I thought that was over years ago. If you two want to..."
"You're ok with that?" I asked stunned.
"Mom I fuck guys! They fuck me. What you two do behind closed doors is none of my business. If you're happy, I am happy for you. Just keep the affection in pubic to a kiss or two if I am around! Ok?" Robert looked at James then me. He was so embarrassed.
I moved to him and kissed his cheek and pulled him tight.