At the McCarey ranch, Jessie and Stephen huddled together in the living room, intently studying documents. Jessie quizzed: “Is there anything I can do, legally?”

“Well, Jess, the actions of the board will be based on their belief of what’s in the company’s best interests … financially. If the board chooses Buchannan over you for the chairman’s position, you might possibly file something like a discrimination suit. It’s a new concept, and I’ll have to research to see if it’s appropriate.”

“Really? That seems a bit over the top. I don’t know …” Jessie hesitated, listening to sounds emanating from the kitchen area.     ”Hey, I believe I hear the rest of our army back from town. Let’s get Bo in on this; sounds like he’s gabbing with Jason in the kitchen.”

“Bo??! Great! Didn’t know he was back yet – when did he get home?”

“Jason drove up from his Tulsa office and picked Bo up at the airport last night. He came as soon as he could. Let’s go see what that crazy pair is up to.”

Jessie hurried into the kitchen, followed by Stephen, where she, then Stephen soundly embraced their nephew.

“Bo! So good to see you, kiddo! And what has my orneriest…er, most industrious… nephew been up to?”

“Keeping busy with the law firm. Just in case you haven’t heard, Uncle Steve, D.C. is a slightly hectic place!”  He laughed.

“Well, good you could be here to help us decide what Jessie’s best action plan should be. Jess, I’ll always support whatever you do. We may not be able to legally force the board to put you in the chair position, but we can make their lives miserable.”

Jason cut in: “You’ve got my support, Sis. And hey, if all this crap doesn’t go well, I’ll appoint you C.O.O. of my company, whadda-ya-think of that?”

They all laughed, and Jessie said, “Well, that’s mighty generous of you, brother, but I’ll have to decline. I think I’d like to give the board and Mr. Buchannan, in particular, a bad time.”

Bo looked at Jessie: “Aunt Jess, I’ll help with the legal research.…”

Jessie reached over and grasped Bo’s hand. “I have a special request of you, sweetheart.”

Two days later, in the McCarey Oil Company conference room, several men were standing around, talking quietly. Bradford Buchannan moved about from member to member, stumping like a politician with an oversized smile, shaking hands.

To one: “Hello, John, I need to discuss those operations details we spoke about.” Then, turning to another: “Bill, I think you understand how instrumental I was in that refinery coup.”

“Kendall, I hope I can count on you today…?”

Kendall Brackman, the Senior Vice President of Operations, replied: “I’m hesitantly backing you as Chairman, Bradford. If things were different, I might approve Jessica Trenton for that job. She’s extremely knowledgeable about the oil business and is tough. She performs well in negotiations. I just don’t think it’s the time….”

Norman Whitfield, another vice-president added, “That’s right, Bradford. As for myself, I know I need a couple more years’ offshore operations experience, or I’d be stomping for CEO. If Jessica does somehow get majority board approval, I’ll support her. I value her expertise and can learn a lot working with her.”

Buchannan puffed up. “Well, I see she’s seduced the two of you with her polished appearance. But that’s simply not enough to run this company.”

Kendall appeared irritated. “That’s pretty mean-spirited. You surely know Jessica Trenton is a capable woman.”

“Well, if it weren’t for her brother’s influence, she wouldn’t even be a member of the board.”

“I think you’ve got that backward. We weren’t here at the start of this company. There is a lot more to Jessica and Ben’s working ‘arrangement’ than meets the eye.”

“What are you talking about?”

Norman replied: “Well, just a theory of mine, but I believe Jessica was the real initiator of this company. I’ve never known Ben to make a major decision without a closed-door meeting with his sister.”

Buchannan seemed ready to speak again when he heard murmuring. The cause: Jessie was striding confidently into the boardroom. Dressed in an attractive, expensive-looking dark suit and flanked on each side by Stephen and Bo, she seemed contented and relaxed. The members politely nodded toward Jessie, then began to find seats at the conference table. The low talk died down as Jessie motioned to Kendall Brackman for his attention.

Mr. Brackman asked, “Yes, Mrs. Trenton?”

“Gentlemen, before we begin, I’d like to ask that we allow a couple of ‘outside’ people in the meeting today. I’m sure you probably recognize these members of my family — the Honorable Stephen McCarey, Chief Justice of the Missouri Board of Appeals, and Robert (Bo) McCarey, a prominent attorney in Washington, D.C. I’ll defer to Mr. Brackman’s handling of procedure at this time, if there are no objections to my family continuing in this meeting?”

Mr. Brackman smiled and replied: “These gentlemen have both worked for and been an influential part of McCarey Oil. I have no objection; how about any of the rest of you?”

A few murmurs stirred. Glancing around at each other uncomfortably, they talked quietly, but no one said anything formally. Buchannan whispered to the gentleman on his right: “Well, I see she’s armed with enough legal counsel.”

After a couple of minutes, Philip Davis motioned to Kendall. When Kendall acknowledged him, Mr. Davis said: “I don’t think we should have a problem with McCarey family members attending, even though it is out of the norm for our board’s procedures. Let’s consider Mrs. Trenton’s position in this company, and… respect to the McCarey family at her brother’s passing. Wouldn’t you all agree?”

All look around at each other. Eventually, each nodded affirmatively.

“Thank you.” Jessie smiled warmly and indicated to Bo and Stephen to take the seats next to her.

Mr. Brackman began the meeting: “All right, let’s get to the business at hand. As you are aware, we are here today to select a new CEO for McCarey Oil Company. Though it must be affirmed by a majority of stockholders, our recommendations are generally approved. Bradford Buchannan has graciously filled in in Ben’s stead since his death last month. However, because of our stock position and the influence on our corporation’s credibility, we should appoint a permanent Chief Executive Officer right away. I will accept nominations at this time, but would first like to indicate my personal preference for Mr. Buchannan’s continuance as Chairman and CEO.”

When there were a few surprised murmurs he added: “I intend to retire soon, so I am not in the running. Do I hear other suggestions?”

Norman Whitfield spoke: “I would like to nominate Jessica Trenton.”

Several members began to whisper nervously to each other, but no one else spoke. Kendall Brackman then asked: “Are there no other nominations?”

Another pause. When no other suggestions were made: “Okay; let’s take a preliminary vote.…”

Jessie stood and nodded to Mr. Brackman. “Mr. Vice Chairman, since I have been nominated, would you please allow me to again, briefly address the group?”

“I believe that would be in order. I defer to Mrs. Trenton, after which, we’ll hear equally from Mr. Buchannan.”

Jessie advanced to the head of the table. “First, and foremost, I’d like to say it has been a real pleasure working with you. And watching McCarey Oil Company grow to its success has been the most rewarding experience I could ever have imagined. I was but a headstrong teenager when our family started this company in 1914. We had whimsical dreams but never could have predicted the global destiny of this company. We’ve survived two world wars, and I’m proud of our contributions to the defense of our great country. We survived a terrible depression, one that left many out of work and emotionally bruised. But while other companies had massive layoffs, we took care of our employees.”  She paused.

“People have asked me how I could put my life ‘on hold’ and devote myself to this company. McCarey Oil and its employees have been my extended family, my life, for all these years. The job hasn’t been a chore for me; it’s been thrilling! Why, developing processes and equipment like magnetometers, heat-sensitive photography, our special-technique rotary drilling … I never tire of learning about this business! Frankly, I wouldn’t have missed this for anything!”

Bradford Buchannan pretended to read over some notes in front of him. Jessie’s eyes began to fill with tears, and several members nervously looked around. She steadied herself and continued.

“I hope that because of the diligent way I have labored with Ben for this company, you will lend some credence to what I am about to suggest.”

The room became uncomfortably silent, and she paused, dramatically, for a long few moments.

“I would like for you to seriously entertain the idea of a McCarey family member remaining at the helm of McCarey Oil. Because this company has historically been associated with Ben McCarey, keeping a McCarey as Chairman should retain the stockholder and marketer confidence we’ve developed over the years. Our stock price dropped several points this week, and we must carefully consider the effect our decision today will make on our company’s future.”

Murmurs began around the room. Buchannan whispered under his breath: Well, here it comes! Several members looked uncomfortable.

Jessie picked up a glass of water from the credenza and took a sip before continuing: “I would like to strongly suggest that you consider … that my nephew, Robert, be elected as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. The most effective person to replace Ben McCarey is Ben’s son!”

Several members murmured as she paused again. Bradford Buchannan appeared completely stunned.

“As Mr. Brackman mentioned, Bo worked for our corporation several years ago and has a good feel for the operations. That, coupled with his political clout and legal experience, should wield a great influence for McCarey Oil. I have convinced him to consider leaving his extremely lucrative law office in D.C. and accept our President and CEO position. That is … if he is offered the job.”

As everyone appeared stunned, she returned to her chair. Kendall Brackman moved to the head of the table.

“Bradford, we’ll hear from you now, after which, we’ll put the nominations to a vote.”

1960

Jessie groggily raised her head from the pillow. Yes, that is the phone ringing. She wearily rolled out of bed to answer it, and, hearing MaryBeth’s worried tone, snapped to attention.

“Jessie, Ben’s real bad. The doctors don’t think he’ll make it through the night.  Please come.”

Telling MaryBeth she’d be right over, Jessie reached into the closet, grabbed slacks and a shirt, and dressed as quickly as possible. She combed her fingers through her hair as she exited the kitchen, snatching her purse off the counter, and ran down the path to her car.

Jessie raced to the hospital, oblivious of her speed. Nothing mattered now except that she reach Ben in time.

When she entered his room, Ben’s eyes were closed and MaryBeth was sitting next to him.  Jessie tiptoed to the bed and, taking one of his long but now-thin hands in hers, whispered,  “How you doing, big guy?”

Ben stirred; his eyes flickered for a moment before opening. When he saw Jessie standing close, he smiled.  “Hi, kiddo,” he replied, before dozing back off for a few minutes.

Jessie couldn’t believe how such a hulk of a man could have shriveled up like Ben had done in the past months.  He’s just so weak …

“Bo was here yesterday,” Marybeth whispered.

“That’s wonderful.  But I suppose he had to get right back to his hectic office?”

“Yes, he had an extremely important client meeting, and we didn’t know how long all this was going to last, so Ben ordered him back to D.C.  He took the red-eye flight late last night.”

“Sounds like Ben.  Always thinking of others.”

“Yes, Jessie.  It was the sweetest reunion.  Ben seemed so thirsty, but he had trouble swallowing. Wish you had seen Bo feeding his father ice chips.  I’m so glad they had that time together.  He’ll call today to check in and hopes to fly back again tomorrow.”

When Ben woke again, Jessie sat next to MaryBeth, very still, her eyes full of tears. He reached over and patted Jessie’s hand, watched as tears silently slid from her big green eyes, falling to her cheeks.

“It’s time, kid; you’ve got to let me go.”

MaryBeth began to sob quietly.

“I know,” Jessie replied, “but it’s hard, Ben.”

“I’m going to a better place … you know….” Ben tiredly faltered. “We’ve had some great adventures, haven’t we, kid?”

“Sure have—you and I have been the best team.”

Ben motioned for MaryBeth to come closer.  He clutched her hand and kissed it. “I’ll always be with you, darling, remember that?”

MaryBeth nodded.

“It’s awful nice, having my two best girls here with me.” He closed his eyes and dozed, fitfully, for some time. When he seemed to rest, the girls relaxed a bit.

About six a.m., the monitor began to buzz.  MaryBeth buried her face against Ben’s chest as a nurse rushed into the room to check her husband’s vital signs.  The nurse shook her head sadly and discreetly left the room.

Jessie cradled her arms around MaryBeth, and together they rocked until they had cried themselves out.

Bradford Buchannan pitched pensively in the massive oak chair at his executive desk, contemplating the phone call he’d just received. It came from Ben McCarey’s secretary, relating the grave news that Ben had died earlier that morning.

Buchannan decided to capitalize upon this immediately. He’d call each of the directors on the board personally:  Though the news was sad, the receiver might identify in a positive or sympathetic manner with the bearer.  He began with Kendall Brackman, the assistant chairman, and pointedly mentioned that an emergency board meeting could be called. Kendall agreed, and they set a time. Buchannan told Kendall he’d handle getting the meeting news to the board members.

Jessie swiveled her chair around behind her desk, so she could view the brilliant autumn scenery outside her window. The park was lovely this time of year—a myriad of shades:  yellow, gold, rust, and red, intermingled with the few remaining greens. As the breeze stirred, leaves quietly danced through the striking complementary brilliant blue of the sky.

How Big Spring had grown! It looked much more like a city now, though still smaller than Tulsa. Business buildings stretched for blocks. Coming into the city from a distance, she knew, visitors were surprised by the panorama of skyscrapers unexpectedly erupting like wildflowers on the prairie.  With its taller height, the McCarey Oil building stood out.

She drifted back, revisiting many of the fine things that had come to Big Spring and how influential this company and her family had been. The McCarey family had helped finance the new school and hospital buildings; the community center, where renowned artists performed; the large library, with its renaissance-inspired gigantic clock face joyfully booming out musical time for everyone within earshot.

Jessie relished what really made their family’s success so sweet: sharing their wealth with others. The past few years, she’d often stayed behind the scenes in benevolent ventures, so she wondered if other people remembered that about her.  I hope the community doesn’t think I only care about money.  Oh well … she sighed.

She gazed outside for some time, then back toward her desk, where an assortment of pictures of Jake and her close-knit large family were prominently displayed.

She reminisced back to the beginnings of McCarey Oil Company and tried to visualize the dusty roads, the lean-to buildings. Their family built this company, and she was grittily resolved to keep a family member at the head for as long as she could. Now that Ben was gone, she would call on the rest of the family for some support and innovation.

Jessie picked up the phone and visited with Stephen, Jason, and Bo, asking each of them to meet with her at the ranch on Saturday afternoon. Stephen said he would arrange to fly in from a meeting in New York, and she promised to pick him up at the airport.

Images of Buchannan trying to suck in the board kept entering her head. He’d convinced them to have him “temporarily” sit as Chairman until a decision could be made on the permanent appointment. Jessie knew what his intentions were: mainly to keep her from the Chairman’s desk and himself in it.

What a dipstick!  What was that ridiculous statement he’d made? Something about ‘continuity of authority’ or something about as pompous. He must certainly be insecure if he was afraid of her. Of course, she did have an influence with the other managers. But why shouldn’t she? She knew this company inside out, had struggled to build it.

I’m the one who took the responsibility (and heat) for that strategic financing during the depression of the railroad spur and the monumental pipeline construction, not to mention all the risky overseas and offshore drilling investments through the years. Why the heck shouldn’t I run this company?

Anyone who had been with McCarey Oil any time at all should realize her power behind the throne. Ben knew it and accepted it and appreciated her for her strengths.  What is the matter with some of these other men?  Women, too, for that matter (after all she’d done to promote them)? Look at Joyce Hiffler—she, of all people, should be pushing for me to take the helm—after all, she’s one of those who’ve begun pushing for women’s equality! She’s ambitious as heck, but a conniver, not a team player.

Jessie’s first impression of her—that she was a backstabber—held over the past two years Joyce had been with the company. Jessie tried on several occasions to work with her, giving her the benefit of the doubt, but with no success.  Joyce constantly tried to upstage the other women on her projects and wasn’t well received by any of them.  Jessie’s only consolation: that she wasn’t the one who’d hired her.

Ben was right. We should have stayed private. This company was just growing too big. There were so many personnel and other decisions to be made that, years ago, they’d lost the individual contact with many of the people in the organization, ultimately delegating the hiring to Human Resources staff.

She sighed, just a sign of the times.

Before she left the office, Jessie had forced herself into a sense of calm, and a deliberate plan of action formed in her mind. She smiled at Marsha, who had worked as Ben’s secretary and was now hers, when she passed Marsha’s desk in the outside office.

“Have a good evening, Mrs. Trenton,” Marsha encouraged.

“You have a nice evening, too, Marsha. And thank you, I will,” she responded purposefully.

Marsha looked at Jessie intently, trying to read her thoughts. Then she smiled reassuringly. Jessie looked confident, and Marsha hoped fervently that she would be able to handle the board meeting next week.

“If anyone can, she can,” Marsha said quietly to the steno sitting across from her.

The next morning, Marsha came in to the office about half past six and found Jessie already at work at her desk.

“Good morning, Mrs. Trenton, I had hoped to get here early and make your coffee for you.”

“Thanks, Marsha. That’s a nice gesture, but you’re not expected to do that.  I made some about half an hour ago.  And also … since you’ll be working exclusively for me now, I’d like for you to call me ‘Jessie.’  Would you be comfortable with that?”

Marsha registered delighted surprise on her face and nodded approvingly.

“Maybe you’d like a cup of that coffee before we get started? Whatever are you doing here at this hour, anyway? This isn’t a sweatshop.”

Marsha beamed at Jessie. She was the nicest boss Marsha could imagine. She already felt that Jessie treated her like an important member of the staff.  Marsha certainly admired Jessie’s respect of other people in the office, and this simply re-established that opinion.  Too bad a few of the other managers can’t act this way.

“I wondered if there’s anything in particular I can help you with, especially the board meeting coming up. Thought you might have a lot of work to prepare for that …”

Roger Clayton suddenly stuck his head through the outer door. “Hi, girls, how’s it going this morning?” He grinned like a kid scrambling through a candy box.

Roger, now V.P. of Financial Services, was a favorite with the secretaries in the executive suite. Always so cheerful; friendly to the point of being flirtatious, but the secretaries knew Roger was only teasing them and joined in his banter. Roger actually thought of the ladies like they were his kids, often bringing them flowers or pastries. The steno pool reciprocated by totally spoiling him, immediately waiting on even his most trivial requests.

Marsha giggled and responded, “Just fine, Mr. Clayton. How are you?”

“Fine, myself.  Just fine.  Jessie, can we get together for a while this morning?  I’d really like to talk to you about yesterday’s meeting.”

“Of course, Roger, whenever you’re free.”

“How about now?”

“That’s fine. Grab a cup of coffee and sit down.”

Jessie and Roger began to discuss the upcoming board meeting. After they talked awhile, it was evident Roger felt concerned about how extremely difficult this was for her, right after Ben’s funeral and all. Blast them all!  he thought. They should be more respectful to her.

“Roger, I’m okay—I know what you’re thinking.”

“What do you mean?”

“Don’t give me that. I know you’re worried about me, but I’m handling this. It wasn’t sudden or anything; I had faced up to this weeks ago—it was Ben’s time.  I couldn’t see him suffer any more.”

“I know, but the buzzards could have waited a few.…”

Roger was interrupted by Marsha’s buzz at Jessie’s desk. When Jessie pushed the intercom button on her phone, Marsha explained the intrusion:  “I’m sorry to disturb you, Mrs. Trenton … er … Jessie, but you have a phone call I thought you might like to take.”

“Who is it?”

“A lady from the New York Sentinel, a Miss Stevens. She said she heard about what’s happening at our company from some woman named Loretta Wingett—Wingate, or something—who’s the national chairman of the Women’s Rights Society. She wants to ask you about an interview.”

“Roger, if you don’t mind, I think I’ll take this call.”

“Go right ahead, Jess. You need all the good publicity you can muster.  I’ll wait outside till you’ve finished your call.”

“No, please stay.  I need you in on everything.”

The following Thursday, Marsha appeared at the door of Jessie’s office to announce the arrival of Ms. Loretta Wingett, along with Ms. Laurie Stevens, the reporter who had telephoned. Jessie asked her to show them in, then stood and extended her hand to each.

“Please sit down, ladies. May I offer you a cup of coffee or tea?”

When they both accepted tea, Jessie moved to the credenza to pour for them from the steaming container Marsha had ordered earlier.

Jessie smiled as she sat down. “What would you like to know about me?” she asked.

Loretta Wingett hesitated for a minute as she took in the surroundings: expensive wood paneling, massive heavy desk, book shelves, Italian leather chairs.  Stunning view from the ornate window.  She was impressed with Jessie’s selection of office décor (though it leaned a bit toward masculine) and said as much to Jessie.

“Thank you.  Ben’s lovely wife chose the furniture and drapes for me, as well as those of my brother’s office, also.  Ben and I agreed on furnishings; our offices are similar. We enjoy things MaryBeth selects for us—she has such wonderful taste.”

Loretta cleared her throat and ventured, “Mrs. Trenton, I’ve heard quite a lot about the selection of the Chairman of the Board of this company. It appears you’ve got your hands full, with the comments I’ve been hearing.”

“Really?” Jessie cocked an appraising eyebrow.

“Well, now that your brother is gone, it’s obvious that the Board is going to try to railroad you out of the chairman’s position. And from all the research we’ve done on you, I think you’re the most capable candidate for the job.”

“Thank you for your commendation, but the decision is still up in the air. I am only one of several vice presidents, so McCarey Oil has many candidates quite capable of handling the CEO position.  We may have a big shakeup of management restructuring before we’re through.”

“Well,” Loretta continued, “I’m hearing that you’re in for a big fight, and I think you should ‘come out with both barrels blasting.’ Let the McCarey Oil Company board see what you’re really made of!  Our organization would like to assist you in your fight.”

“What do you base your opinions on?  How much do you know about this organization?” Jessie asked directly.

Jessie noticed Laurie move around nervously in her chair.

“I’ve done some research, or, rather, Ms. Stevens has researched your company. We then contacted several of the local businesses and asked questions about the early startup of the operations of McCarey.  Most people around here have a very favorable opinion of you.”

“Yes?” Jessie nodded for her to continue.

“Generally speaking. However, some of the male occupants of this city feel that you are ‘way outta your league’ to try to take over as Chairman of the Board. I totally disagree, and I’d like to help you, with our organization’s backing, to force the board to consider you as head.”

“Force the board?”

“Right! You can’t let them railroad you out of this position. You can do a great deal for our organization, and the women’s movement in general, if you defeat the board’s rejection of you as Chairman.”

“You assume, then, that I won’t get their cooperation?” Jessie asked quietly.

“It doesn’t appear so, from what I’ve gleaned. Laurie talked to another reporter, with the Oklahoma City Register. Bradford Buchannan interviewed with their paper last week. An article will be forthcoming shortly. He apparently thinks he has more influence with your board than you do.”

Laurie interjected: “Um … I spoke with several others of your former managers, Mrs. Trenton. Tom Brigance, for example. He told me that he held you in the highest esteem and would not have left McCarey Oil if he hadn’t been offered a very lucrative vice president’s position at the firm he moved to. I believe that you have more influence here than Mr. Buchannan.”

“Well, I don’t agree,” Loretta added. “I think you’ve got a real struggle on your hands, and if you don’t get some help, you may get ’shot outta the saddle,’ as they say around here.  I’ve heard Buchanan referred to as a tough old bulldog.”

Jessie’s glance narrowed as she studied Loretta. Her smug expression made Jessie feel queasy. Jessie surmised that Ms. Wingate’s opinion of Oklahomans probably wasn’t very high. Does this woman believe we’re all ignorant and uneducated?

“So, you think I need your organization to come in here and intimidate our board—is that what you’re saying?”

Laurie looked intently at Jessie, apparently sensing that this interview wasn’t going well.

“Yes, I think we’re just what you need right now!” Loretta committed to her faux paux.

“Well, I appreciate your time, ladies, but I believe I’ll handle this situation in my own way….”

“You mean you’re not going to take advantage of my offer!!?” Loretta asked incredulously.

“No, I believe that your organization can be helpful, but after specific incidents, gained a bad reputation for turning people off.  I realize your goals of equality for women are well-intended; however, I sometimes disapprove of your methods.”

“Whatever do you mean?”

“When emotional intensity is high, certain people sometimes engage in non-productive efforts to change another person’s or organization’s opinion. When this type of emotion is vented contemptuously, it is usually ineffective, and that is how I perceive some of your past experiences. I don’t want to be considered just another of those angry women.”

Loretta hesitated, apparently perturbed.

“So you feel we would not be effective in helping you?”

“Ms. Wingate, it is never easy to move away from ineffective fighting toward a firm assertion of what is and is not acceptable to us, particularly a woman in a man’s business realm. However, I feel that by the time of the board meeting, I will have done what I can to persuade the board of my competence. I believe that women must show their abilities by their experience, not by making an issue of the fact that they’re women.  Regardless, I will have resolved this conflict within myself, and I will deal with whatever decision the board makes.”

Loretta face twisted into an openly sour expression. “You’re making a big mistake!”

Jessie hesitated, contemplating the most diplomatic way to respond.  However, her irritation overrode diplomacy.

“I don’t think so, MS. Wingate. And I’m finished with this interview.”

“Well, I can’t believe you’re …”

“Good day, Ms. Wingate.  Ms. Stevens, under the circumstances, I don’t have any statements to make to the press right now.”

Loretta jumped from her seat and started toward the door.  “You’re making a mistake, a big mistake.”

When Laurie hesitated, Loretta looked back and said, “Come along, Laurie, I don’t believe we’re welcome here.”

Laurie replied, “Please go ahead without me, Ms. Wingate. I’d like to speak with Mrs. Trenton, alone, if she’ll spare me just a moment.”  Laurie looked appealingly at Jessie.

“I really don’t have anything to say from a woman’s movement point of view, Ms. Stevens…”

“I can see that, Mrs. Trenton, but if you’d  extend me a few minutes, I’d like to hear a little more about you.  I want to write an objective article, exclusively from a reporter’s point of view.  I believe you’ll think my approach will be fair.”

Jessie scrutinized Laurie’s expression.  She finally decided that Ms. Stevens looked sincere.

“All right, I’ll talk with you. I don’t believe you had an ample opportunity to speak …”

Loretta stared indignantly at Jessie and then marched out of the office.

“Would you like another cup of tea, Ms. Stevens?”  Jessie asked.

“Yes, please. And it’s Laurie.  All this ‘Ms.’ stuff is getting to me.” Laurie laughed. “And thank you, Mrs. Trenton, for giving me a chance at a real interview. I realize that this meeting was originally Ms. Wingate’s idea, but I have to tell you, the more I’ve been around her the past few days, the more I have regretted coming with her. I have a completely different viewpoint of your board’s situation and your position than she does, and I’d appreciate a chance to get to know your opinions firsthand.”

“Please call me Jessie. What would you like to know, Laurie?”

“Everything!”  Laurie smiled. “I know I said only a few minutes, earlier, but I’d really like to get to know the real you, how you started this company, and how you’ve been so successful. I really admire what you’ve accomplished, and I think our readers would enjoy hearing about your life.”

“Well, that’s very flattering, Laurie, but I’m not sure where to start.…”

“At the beginning, please!” Laurie asked enthusiastically. “I hope my article might give you a little extra support during the next few weeks. I promise to let you read every word I write before it’s published.”

“Do you have that kind of editorial clout?”

“Well, I don’t, but my supervisor does. If you’ll tell me your thoughts, I’ll write a draft and discuss it with him. He’s usually very good about giving me freedom when I’m really onto something I’m excited about, and I think yours will be a great human interest story.”

“All right, I’ll tell you what I can remember, but I warn you, this may take awhile,” Jessie joked.

“I don’t have to be back in New York right away, Mrs. Trenton.  If you have the time to spare, I’ll stay over as long as it takes.”

As promised, Laurie Stevens provided a copy to Jessie’s office as soon as she completed her feature article. She added a note, saying that if Jessie wished to change anything, to pencil in her suggestions and call her. She assured Jessie that her boss approved the copy just as written. Jessie asked Roger to stop by her office and she read to him:

Mrs. Jessica Trenton is, without question, the most qualified candidate to head the staff of McCarey Oil Company. She is to be admired for the unheard-of success that she has achieved, in spite of the fact that this industry characteristically shuns women managers. In fact, when McCarey Oil Company was organized in 1914, the industry rejected women employees altogether…

The copy went on for several pages.  After she finished reading, Jessie asked: “Roger, can you believe this? It’s so flattering, I’m … embarrassed.”

“It’s not exaggerated one bit, Jess. It appears Miss Stevens has a good insight into your personality and abilities. I think this article could be very influential with our stockholders, and, ultimately the board.  You let her publish it, without a change, you hear me? It’s excellent, just as it is.”

“I don’t know, Rog— don’t you think it’s a little much!!?”

“Not at all. Why can’t you accept compliments when they’re sincere, Jessie?”

Jessie hesitated for a while, re-reading parts of the article.  Finally: “Okay, I’ll let it rip.”

“Good girl. Write her a note, giving your approval, then hand me that copy.”

When Jessie looked questioningly at him, he teasingly added: “I’ll call Miss Stevens myself, before you have a chance to change your mind.”

A few days later, Bradford Buchannan was busy at work in his office at McCarey Oil.  His secretary appeared at his open door.

“Sorry to bother you, Mr. Buchannan, but thought you might like to see this.”

She handed a copy of the New York Sentinel to Buchannan, pointing to an article she’d circled. Stepping just outside the door, she waited quietly, eavesdropping with one of the stenos for a few moments. From inside they shortly heard the expected expletive:  “Damn, Damn Damn!”

The two women giggled.

A few weeks later, Jessie worked late at the office. Strange … but she thought she heard the outside door. She glanced up just as Jason fretfully materialized in the doorway.

“Well, this is a nice surprise, kiddo. What brings you to the office?”

Jason looked soberly at Jessie. “Jessie, it’s Papa. He’s real bad sick. The Doc thinks he’s had a stroke. You better come right away.”

Jessie jumped from her chair and grabbed her coat. As they hurried down the steps, she asked Jason what had happened. Jason protectively held her arm as she descended the steps from the office. “Careful, now,” he said. “I’ll explain it on the way. Can we take your car?”
”
Sure, it’s just across the street.”

Jason explained: “It’ll be faster than the old truck.”

When he opened the passenger door for Jessie, she handed him her car key. As they were en route toward the McCarey home, Jessie asked: “When did it happen?”

“About an hour ago. Fortunately, today I was workin’ on those fences on the west end. He was supposed to be up soon to talk to me. When he didn’t show up in a little while, I went back toward the house and found him lyin’ on the ground. I think he passed out and fell off his horse. We hurried after Doc but he hasn’t been able to do much for Papa.”

When they arrived at the house, Jason ran around to open the car door for Jessie and took her arm again as they went up the steps to the house. As they entered the house, Doctor Blanchard stopped them.

“Sarah, you should know … your father’s paralyzed on his right side. This was a bad stroke, and I’m afraid there’s not much I can do for him. I hope he’s strong enough to weather it, but I just don’t know. The way Kathleen describes he’s acted lately, I think he’s already been having some mild ones. I’m going on home for a while, but if you need anything, please send for me.”

Jessie nodded and patted the doctor’s shoulder as she moved past him toward the hallway. Jason and Jessie walked down the hallway to their parents’ bedroom. They found their mother sitting beside Gus. Jessie hugged her mother before kneeling beside her sleeping father.

“Papa, it’s Jessie. Can you hear me?”

Gus slowly opened his eyes and looked over at her. “Jessie, my darlin’, where have you been?”

“Papa, at home, with Jake. But I came by here to see you all just a few days ago, remember?”
“You sure you haven’t been gone a long while? I’ve missed you.”

Jessie looked at the anxious faces of her mother and brothers sitting around the room.

“No, Papa, I’d never go far and leave you; you know that,” she humored him.

“Well, I think I’m goin’ away, Darlin’. I’m goin’ away.”

“Sh…” Jessie whispered, “you just need to rest, that’s all, Papa, please rest now.”

She took his hand as he drifted back off to sleep. Ben fetched another chair for her, and they sat next to the bed all night.

As the morning sun filtered through the window, Jessie woke to find her head lying on the bed next to her father. Her mother and brothers sat upright, still asleep. Jason struggled awake and looked over at her.

“How does he seem, Jess?”

Jessie grasped her father’s hand and found it cool to the touch. She jerked upright and touched his face – cool, also. She laid her head on his chest to see if she could detect his breathing or hear a heartbeat, but there was none.

She looked over at Jason as tears formed in her eyes and rolled down her cheeks. Jason struggled emotionally for a few minutes, then said: “We have to wake the others and tell them he’s gone.”

Jessie thought it fortunate the weather was fair the day the family buried Gus McCarey. They were all in so much grief; she knew it would have been unbearable if the weather had been rainy and gloomy.

Jake walked with his arm in hers as they followed their brothers up the hill toward the clearing they had chosen earlier for a family graveyard. Ben escorted their mother, who was a bit more composed since her earlier crying had ceased.

The day before, a friend of the family had dug the grave next to their grandmother’s. Gus’s sons and a couple of ranch hands slowly and solemnly carried the coffin to the spot and gingerly laid it down, then moved it over to the opening and lowered their father’s casket into it.

Many neighbors and friends attended the short memorial service to express their condolences and leave flowers. When the minister concluded the service, Jessie turned to see Samm Mann standing at a distance, outside the gathering.

Jessie left Jake to talk with her family and friends, walking over to Samm. He spoke with her briefly about the good life their father had enjoyed. “Little dove, your father is now free, some place above, riding the wind with the Great Spirit.”

She looked up into his warm brown eyes. Samm had such a pragmatic, calming effect on her; she felt strangely comforted.

Jessie walked like she was in a daze over the next weeks. Maybe she was selfish; she knew the others were hurting, too, and tried to keep up a good front, but she felt she was feeling the loss of Gus more than the others. Jessie had had a special bond with her father. To her, he was the only person who loved her unconditionally—just as she was, pocks and all, and her papa had never tried to change her or make her into someone she wasn’t. The thought that she’d never see him again was sometimes overwhelming.

Jake watched Jessie intently. He knew she was suffering but was frustrated at his inability to help her. He urged her to take some time off work, but she wasn’t receptive to that suggestion: She seemed to work harder and longer at night. Ben had told Jake earlier that she’d been fighting with one of the managers the day before about the proposal of purchasing another refinery, to ease production limits at the one they’d built west of Tulsa.

Jake really worried when Ben related a particularly heated ‘discussion’ Jessie had started with William Masterson, the Finance Manager. Apparently right afterward, Jessie headed straight to her office and laid her head on her desk. When Ben asked if she was all right, she replied that she had a bit of a headache. But Ben noticed she looked a little unsteady later, when she stood up from her desk. Apparently she’d recognized the worried look on his face and berated him: “I’m okay, Ben, just a little tired.”

“Just a little tired?”

“Yes, especially of Mr. Masterson.” She grinned. “But I made sure he was ‘plum hacked’ after our little chat!” They both laughed out loud.

Jake, like Ben, thought to himself that she was awfully good at throwing a conversation off the point at hand—probably a maneuver she’d picked up from that lawyer she’d worked for earlier. He decided to stay as close to home as he could for a while. He assigned his most reliable employee, John Bellows, to his important Dallas route and made more of the shorter runs himself.

The next morning, Jake needed to make a delivery run to Duncan. Should only be gone a few hours. He was looking forward to seeing Elias Miller again. The two had become fast friends and Jake enjoyed this route as more than just business. When Jake finished checking his delivery invoice, Elias usually invited him out for a cold drink. Jake’s normal reaction would have been to accept, but this time he thanked Elias and explained that he needed to be getting right on home today.

As soon as he touched his plane down on the rough runway outside Big Spring, Jake saw Jason waiving frantically to him. Jake cut the engine and barely stopped the small plane before hopping out.

“Thank God, you’re home!” Jason yelled.

“What’s wrong, kiddo?”

“It’s Jessie—come quick! She’s hurting, bad, and the Doc’s there with her!”

They ran to the car Jason had driven and raced back to the house. When they arrived, Kathleen, Maggie, Ben, Tom, Stephen, and Matt were all assembled. The concern was easily discernable.

“How is she?” Jake asked.

Kathleen walked over to him, pulled him close, and held him a few moments. Then:  “She’s lost the baby, Jacob, I’m sorry.”

“Lost … oh no, oh no, what happened? Is she going to be okay? Oh God, I shouldn’t have left her today!”

“Sh..,” Kathleen whispered, “There was nothing you could have done. You can’t stay with her every minute. The doctor said that, I think, the pla…pla…centa quickly separated from the inside of her womb, so there was nothing to stop her from delivering.”

“But it’s too early—she’s not due for weeks!”

Kathleen softly answered, “Yes, it is too early. The baby only lived a short while.”

“Doc said his little lungs was just too weak!” Matt sobbed outright.

“His? You mean I had a son? We had a son?”

Kathleen nodded.

“I want to see Jessie!”

Doctor Blanchard came into the room from the bedroom with a grim look on his face.

“I need to see her!” Jake exclaimed.

“Just for a moment, son; she’s very weak from the delivery.”

“I’ll be quiet, I promise—just let me see her.”

The doctor nodded toward the doorway, and Jake quickly entered the room. He knelt next to the bed, finding Jessie pale and nearly asleep. He quietly picked up her hand, gently kissing it.

Jessie stirred and turned toward him. “Jake ..?”

“Yes, darling, I’m here.”

She cried. “Jake, I’m so sorry; I lost our baby.”

“Sh… you just rest, now. You’ve got to take care of yourself.”

“I let you down, Jake. I’m so sorry.” She began to sob uncontrollably.

Jake leaned over and took her in his arms. “Please, Jessie, don’t cry. It’s not your fault…”

“He was so little! I felt him move just this morning. I’m so sorry, so sorry. Jake …!” she moaned; then lost consciousness.

“Doc! Doc! Please come in here!” Jake yelled.

The doctor rushed back in and, taking her pulse, looked anxious. “Jake, I need to examine her. Tell Kathleen I need her to help me.”

Jake nodded numbly and ran back into the living room. He told Kathleen what the doctor had said, and Kathleen hurried back to her daughter.

Jake sat down and put his head down into his hands. Soon, he began to cry, and, exasperated, staggered out to the porch. The others sat, mute, as if they were paralyzed.

A few minutes later, the doctor came out of the bedroom, carrying a rubber tube and a needle. “Boys, Jessie’s started hemorrhaging—badly! I slowed the flow somewhat, but I need to try a blood transfusion. I recall that it seems to work best if the blood comes from a family member.”

Immediately five pairs of hands began to roll up their sleeves and hold out their arms.

When the doctor felt Jessie was stabilized, he told a relieved family he believed she would make it. “She’ll probably be very weak for a few days, so she’ll sleep a lot. Keep a close watch on her and call me if anything changes.”

Jake, grateful Jessie was doing better, walked the weary doctor to his car and asked, “What can I do for her?”

“Just stay with her for a few days and see if you can get her to eat something when she wakes up. And be patient with her, Jake.”

“Yes, Sir, I will.”

Kathleen came outside onto the porch. The doctor looked sadly at her, then at Jake, and said, “You’ll need to arrange for … the burial …”

Kathleen nodded, and the doctor patted Jake’s shoulder before leaving. Kathleen took Jake’s arm. “Sweetheart, would you like to see the baby?”

“The baby…oh, yes, please.”

They walked back inside, and Kathleen disappeared into the extra bedroom. She and MaryBeth returned with a small bundle. His sister-in-law gently handed Jake the tiny form and watched tearfully as Jake slowly pulled back the blanket she had wrapped his son in. He gazed down at the tranquil form and gently touched the fine, dark hair and still-warm pink cheeks. The baby looked like he was asleep. Jake unwrapped him a bit more and clutched one of the tiny, tiny, hands in his own large ones.

“How could he still be warm?”

“After everyone had held him, I laid him in a basinet next to the fireplace, Jake,” MaryBeth explained.

“That’s just the way Sarah looked when she rocked him, Jacob,” Kathleen added.

“What color are his eyes?”

“They’re dark, like yours. He’s got your coloring. Sarah snuggled him and said he was a ‘little Jake’. He cried, just a weak little cry, and then he was gone. The doctor did everything he could to try to revive him, but the baby was just too weak.”

“I should have been here for her. I should have been here!” he berated himself.

“Jake, there was nothing you, or anyone else, could have done to prevent this. The doc said he doesn’t know what causes this kind of thing—medicine just isn’t advanced enough.”

Jake continued to hold the precious package, gently moving back and forth. The others silently sat and watched for hours as he held the little form and rocked.

Kathleen stayed by Jessie’s bed, watchful as Jessie slept through the night, from exhaustion and the sedative the doctor had given her. When daylight filtered through the curtains, Kathleen came to Jake and gently took the baby from him.

“I’ve been making some things for him, Jake—I’ll dress him in one of the little gowns. Tom, run down and ask Mr. Peterson if he can put together a small coffin this morning. We should have the burial right away. And Ben, ask the pastor if he could please come over.”

Jake looked at Kathleen with astonishment. This is where Jessie gets her strength.

Doctor Blanchard thought the procession up the hill toward the small cemetery was the saddest he’d ever seen. Ben and Tom carried the miniature coffin as Jake followed with the others.

Their pastor spoke briefly about their little angel’s flight into heaven and that he was now in the loving arms of Jesus.

After they gently interred the tiny container in the opening close to his grandfather, Kathleen covered the little grave with flowers. She cried silently: How Gus would have cherished this child. Watch over him, my darling.

Maggie stayed with Jessie while the others attended the funeral. Afterward, either she, Jake, or Kathleen sat round the clock with Jessie.

Later, as Jake sat next to their bed, where Jessie lay, he was somewhat grateful that Jessie had slipped in and out of consciousness during the funeral. It would have been too much of an ordeal for her in her condition—she’d been through so much.

Once, when she partially regained consciousness, Jessie screamed out for her baby. Kathleen, sitting next to her, wrapped her arms around her daughter, stroking her hair and soothing her like she had when Jessie was a little girl.

“Mama!”
“I know, dear. I’m here.”

Jessie drifted back off again and again for the next two days. When she finally woke up, Maggie was nearby. “Jessie, can I get ya somethin to drink or eat?”

“Maybe just a drink of water; I’m awfully thirsty.”

“How bout I fix you’s some breakfast?”

“No, thank you. I’m not hungry.”

That was all Jessie would say for days. No one could persuade her to eat. She slept fitfully and often would dream and wake up crying. Jake was about at his wits’ end, afraid she was really ill, and didn’t know what to do.

Finally in desperation, Jake drove to Ben and MaryBeth’s house, to talk with his sister-in-law about Jessie. “I feel this is all my fault, MaryBeth. She told me she didn’t know whether she wanted children.”

“Jake, don’t blame yourself for this. You need to be strong now, for Jessie. And I think you need to know that Jessie’s reason for not wanting children didn’t have anything to do with you. She cherished the idea of giving you this child. And you know how she dotes on Bo, she really loves children. I think … she was just afraid she wouldn’t be a good enough mother. She never felt she had enough patience; that’s why she didn’t want to become a teacher. Perhaps she simply didn’t have the confidence in her own ability. That’s why I believe she told you she didn’t want children. But you’ve got to put this behind you and think of your future together.”

He nodded numbly and, gently kissing her forehead, bade goodnight to MaryBeth and Ben.

The next day, Kathleen asked Jason to drive her and MaryBeth to see her daughter. When they reached Jessie’s lovely house, Maggie was anxious and relieved to see Mrs. McCarey.

Kathleen entered the bedroom and quietly took her daughter’s hand. “Sarah, sweetheart, now you listen to me. I know this has been hard for you, but you’ve got to eat, so you can get better. Everyone is worried about you. Jake’s about crazy with fear. I called on Marybeth this morning. She’s been asking and asking about you. She’s here to see you, and we brought Bo with us. May I have them come in?”

When Jessie nodded mutely, Kathleen moved to the door and motioned her fingers in a partial wave into the next room.

Marybeth quietly approached, clutching Bo’s hand in hers. She smiled and bent down, gently kissing Jessie’s cheek.     But not Bo. In his exuberant childishness, Bo immediately hopped right up on Jessie’s bed.

His mother had explained to the child as best as she could that Aunt Jessie’s baby had gone to heaven and she was very sad. Bo laid his sweet little face right next to Jessie’s and rubbed his cheek against hers. He clumsily patted her face with his plump little hand and said very solemnly, “P’ease don’t be sad, Anty Wessie. I wuv you.”

Jessie felt a tidal-wave of emotion break, and she sobbed as she clutched and held him tightly against her.

In a few moments, Jessie noticed that MaryBeth began to wheeze. “I’ve given you a bad scare, haven’t I? You don’t need to be worrying about me—you’ll make yourself sick.”

“Jessie, you’re my dearest friend, how could I not worry? But if you don’t want me to worry…” and she had to stop to cough “… get up out of that bed and get better.”

“You need to take care of yourself!” Jessie exclaimed.

“I know this is a bad time to say this, but there probably isn’t going to be a good time, so I’ll say it now. You know how sick I’ve been; my asthma keeps getting worse. I want you to promise me, and I mean, promise me, that if anything happens to me, you’ll take care of Bo.”

“You’re going to be fine, just fine, don’t talk like that! The Doc has been asking for treatments from some specialists …”

MaryBeth uncharacteristically cut her off, “Bo needs you, and you know it. Even if I get better, I can’t give him what you can. You know how he dotes on you; he’s wanting to learn to ride the horses and all kinds of things that I can’t do. Especially with ‘Aunt Wessie.’ You promise me you’ll get better … for him?”

Jessie looked at her friend’s sad face. “Yes, I’ll get better for Bo. And for you all – if you’ll stop worrying about me.”

When MaryBeth sighed and her breathing seemed to relax, Jessie added: “Is Jake still here?”

MaryBeth nodded ‘yes,’ and Jessie requested: “Ask him to come in, will you, please?”

MaryBeth smiled as she carried Bo from Jessie’s room.

One evening a few days later, Jessie drove out to the ranch to see her mother. With the windows down, the fresh air felt good as she slowly took in the haunting beauty of the scenery. As she parked her car next to the house, she noticed a strange car in the road. Curious, she sauntered up the stairs of the veranda.

The front door was open. As she reached for the handle of the screen door, dimly through the screen, she could make out a tall military officer in uniform, sitting next to her mother. Tom, Jason, Matt and Ben were there, also. She tentatively stood at the door for a moment, then opened it and walked in. Thinking it must be a messenger with news, finally, that they’d found Josh’s body, she braced herself.

Suddenly, the uniformed man turned around, and she found herself looking into the smiling face of her thin, pale, but alive brother! For a moment, she felt she might faint, but Josh quickly grabbed her, embracing her so long and hard Jessie thought he would crush the breath from her. As she turned to her mother, happy tears fell from all in the room.

“We’ve been calling you about our news, but guess you were already on the way here.”

Later, over a joyful reunion of the entire family, Josh related to everyone how he’d survived the last months. He’d overpowered a German officer in a prison camp and then was led by some French sympathizers to refuge. On the run for more than a month, he’d hid for days in a shed (little food, no bath, soap, decent clothes). In one farmhouse, he lay, breathlessly, while German soldiers stabbed bayonets through a false ceiling, barely missing him.

Josh told the family that what kept him alive was thinking about them back home and how worried he knew they’d be. He’d had to survive.

Josh had another surprise for the McCareys—he was no longer a bachelor! Later on, he’d finally struggled his way back to Michelle, and they were joyfully married. But Josh was exhausted from his trek and wounds and soon came down with a severe fever that lasted weeks, keeping him bedfast and often delirious. Michelle’s family tended to his wounds and sickness until they were able to notify the appropriate American authorities. Lost military paperwork further delayed the reports.

Josh also told them the exciting news that Michelle was expecting! Michelle would travel all the way from France to Oklahoma as soon as Josh could get the appropriate papers filed. Jessie and her brothers couldn’t wait to meet their new sister-in-law and little niece or nephew!!

She brushed away her tears, thinking: After so much tragedy, it seems only fair that the McCarey family has some good news!

Jake paced, waiting for the operator to fuel his plane. He was completely frustrated about not getting that Tillman contract. Things were really tight lately, and he needed that contract. What would he tell Jessie? She had been so successful, he was more than a little intimidated by the amount of money she made.

He was tempted to stay over tonight and get rip-roaring drunk, rather than fly home with disappointing news. Then he remembered he’d promised his wife he’d be in early tonight —he’d already been gone for days. He sighed, loaded up his supplies, and turned his plane toward home.

At the McCarey office in Big Spring, Jessie kept musing about the expression on Jake’s face when he’d left for Dallas. He was so intent on getting that new contract. It had been rough keeping his transport business going. She knew Jake was so proud—it would kill him if he had to give up the routes and start working for someone else. She didn’t really care whether he made money or not—just as long as he was happy. But being Jake, he needed his business. She could certainly relate to that.

Losing this one contract wouldn’t break him—she was confident in his ability to sell his service to other clients. Regardless, she determined to cheer him up and encourage him. He’d be home tonight—maybe she could do something special to fire him up.

Jessie stuck her head in Roger’s office, saying she was taking off a little early today.

When she arrived home, she found Maggie scrubbing the kitchen. Jake had insisted they hire a housekeeper, soon after they moved into the house they’d built. Jessie’s first thought was of Maggie, whose husband often struggled to find work. Jessie hired Maggie to come each afternoon, cleaning and starting dinner for her. Maggie was a tremendous help, so both she and Jessie benefited from the arrangement.

“You can go on home for the day, Maggie. Jake will be home this evening, and I want to make dinner for him myself.”

“I can help you with it a’fore I go, Miz Jessie.”

“No, that’s all right—surely you have something you need to do this afternoon?” When Maggie hesitated, Jessie teased, “Can’t I just give you a little time off once in a while?”

“Yes, I got things to do if you’s sure; I wanta look at that reader with my boy that you give me. Thankee, Miz Jessie. And for lettin’ me bring Jasper here when he ain’t in school.”

“You know we love Jasper! He’s always welcome. Now, I’ll see you tomorrow, Maggie.”

As Maggie left, Jessie looked in the icebox to see what she could prepare for dinner. After she peeled fresh carrots and potatoes, she surrounded a roast with them in a large pan and placed it in the oven.

Later Jessie pulled out baking ingredients and stirred them together for a chocolate cake—Jake’s favorite dessert. She buttered and floured the cake pan and poured the mixture in it. Wow; I can still do this. It had been so long since she’d really cooked, she was a bit afraid she’d forgotten recipes. She tossed a salad, put it in the icebox, and then placed the cake in the oven, also. In the bread box, she discovered a fresh loaf baked that morning. Thanks, Maggie, you’re a sweetheart.

She thought the cake would take about an hour to bake. That would give her time to take her bath. She put two large kettles of water on the stove to heat, then carried several buckets to the beautiful porcelain tub Jake had brought her from New Orleans. She poured enough of the boiled water in to warm the bath. She had a part of a bucket left, which she set next to the tub.

Jessie dribbled some fragrance into the water, slipped out of her clothes and into the bath. Ooh, the water feels great! She loved her bath and especially luxuriated in a soak after a long day. She shampooed her hair, rinsing it with the remaining water in the bucket. Boy, she was glad Jake built the kitchen around the well pump. It was wonderful to be able to get water without having to go outside like a lot of people did.

Though it was not as nice as some folks’ homes she knew, she really treasured this house. It wasn’t fancy; but Jake ensured it was well-built; filled with heavy, masculine-looking furniture. Rustic, yet with the immediately comfortable, welcoming atmosphere she wanted their visitors and guests to experience.

Knowing she mustn’t dawdle too long, Jessie dried off and slipped into baggy, comfortable pants and one of Jake’s shirts. She checked the oven for her cake—nearly done—then emptied the bathtub. By the time she was finished, the cake had risen; ready to come out of the oven. She ambled back to the dining room, poured herself a tiny glass of sherry, and looked over some notes she’d brought home from her office.

A little later, she thought it would be about time for Jake to be getting home; she checked the roast—it was adequately cooked, so she turned off the oven and left it inside to stay warm. She hoped Jake wouldn’t be long. She leaned over the stove, fluffing the moisture out of her hair.

She refilled the tub, then started the water kettle on the stove to heat Jake’s bath when he got home. Usually he was very tired after a long flight, and Jessie thought Jake might need some special attention if he didn’t get that Tillman contract. He worked hard, yet was so hard on himself.

Jessie entered her dressing room and brushed out her hair till it was soft and shiny. Thinking of Jake again—she should spoil him a little tonight—what could she do to cheer him up? Prowling through her bureau, she spied a very sheer gown and robe that matched—a present from Jake. It was lacy and bright red, and probably most folks would consider it a little bold for a married woman, but because Jake had bought it for her on a trip to San Francisco, she loved wearing it.

She dusted a peach-colored powder on her face and a light touch of red lipstick. No other makeup—Jake didn’t like her to look overdone, and besides, the apparel she was wearing was racy enough. The last touch: a dab of Jake’s favorite perfume to the throbbing pulse at her neck.

Jake was true to his word: Jessie shortly heard a plane overhead. She carried the hot water she’d heated to pour in his bath and made him a cold drink. When he entered the kitchen, he appeared pleasantly surprised at her attire. He stood motionless, staring at her.

“Maggie’s gone for the evening,” she whispered as she ran her hands through the hair on the back of his neck.

Jake fumbled for what he’d intended to say. After a few moments: “Jess, uh … I didn’t get that …”

“Sh…h,” she murmured, then tiptoed over and gave him a long, lingering kiss. “You’ll get the next one. Guess what? I wanted to cook your dinner myself, just to see if I could still do it. Are you hungry?”

“You know it,” he said, as he buried his face in the soft hair at her shoulder.

She put her arm around his waist and led him to the bathroom. “I think first I should give you a bath.”

“Oh really?”

“Yes, really.”

She dropped her robe and stood in only the sheer gown. Guiding him to sit down, she pulled off his boots, then slowly peeled off his socks, shirt, and pants and motioned him into the tub.

“I love that color on you, Jess. It really brings out the cinnamon highlights in your hair.”

“Well, thank you, sir,” she replied coyly. “A certain gentlemen friend of mine bought it for me … with I believe,” she whispered facetiously, “risqué thoughts in mind … if you know what I mean.” She winked at him.

He laughed and sighed at the feel of the warmth of the water when he submerged. Jessie had him lean back, then shampooed and rinsed his hair.

While he finished his drink, she soaped his back, slowly and lovingly, his shoulders, feet, every part of him. Then she bent over him and began kissing his face, slowly and deliberately, first his eyes, temples, his jaw line—slowly, then circling around and around his mouth until finally, in desperation, he grabbed her and pressed his mouth to hers. Roughly hauling her up, he pulled her into the tub on top of him.

“Jake!” she giggled, but cared less that she was soaked.

A little later, she remembered the roast. “We better go eat before it’s completely cold,” she sighed.

They dried off and strolled to the kitchen, clad only in towels. Jessie dished food onto plates on a tray and handed it to him. He followed her obediently to the bedroom. She began to feed him, alternately taking bites herself and suggestively tempting him all the while. After most of the meal was finished, he’d had enough of the teasing and shoved the plates over onto the bureau.

He laid her back onto the bed and then slowly kissed her. Towels silently dropped to the floor.

“Don’t you want cake?” she mocked. His answer was to begin to urgently kiss her neck. Jake Trenton knew how to make her lose her control over reality.

Jessie began a mental note to herself. Tonight was all right, but they probably needed to be careful over the next few days.

She meant to ask him if he was tired. “Jake …” she started, but he was swept up in her warmth. He moaned against her neck, “Oh, sweet Jessie!”

She also was lost – could think of nothing for the moment except that she never wanted him to pull away from her—she wanted to feel like part of him.

She didn’t have misgivings until the next day, when she felt the intense pain in her side that usually signaled she was ovulating. She had checked her cycle on the calendar she dutifully kept, and felt this a ‘safe’ time. But the pain was early!!

She tried to put it out of her mind, but three weeks later, she knew. Although only a few days late, she knew. She scolded herself: Why wasn’t I more careful?

She made an appointment to see Dr. Blanchard, but his exam would only confirm her suspicions. “Well, Mrs. Trenton, you’re going to be a mother,” the doctor validated.

Jessie drove home that evening wondering how she would tell Jake. She didn’t think he would be upset; they’d discussed this before and he hadn’t seemed adverse to the idea of having children. But Jessie wasn’t sure how she felt about it. Actually, she felt like … crying. All the way home, she struggled with the words she’d use to tell him.

Maggie was busy polishing the furniture when Jessie reached home. Jessie followed her around, moving things out of the way for Maggie as she was dusting. Jessie often would start helping when she needed to talk, so Maggie looked piercingly at Jessie. “Is ever’thin okay, Miss Jessie?”

“Yes, Maggie. Why do you ask?”

“Well, you jest seem kinda thoughtful, that’s all.”

“I do need to discuss something with Jake, but it’s nothing for you to worry about. And … Maggie, you should know you don’t need to call me ‘Miss.’ We’ve been friends for a long time …”

Maggie sensed there was more, but she didn’t push her. When Jessie wanted to talk, she would.

“What would you like for dinner … Mm … Jessie? I’s got blackburry cobbler bakin’ in the oven—you’s favorite. I’ll fix whatever you would like.”

“Oh, I’m not very hungry, Maggie, everything you cook is always delicious, so I’ll eat anything. I have to admit that hot pie sounds good.”

“Well, it’s awhile a’fore dinner, so why don’t I jest get you a piece of it right now?”

Jessie smiled – sweet, dear Maggie. Her friend spoiled her so. “Maybe just a bite.”

Jake was late arriving home that evening from a week-long trip to Dallas. He found Jessie in the kitchen, twiddling a fork in her cold cobbler.

“Hope you saved some of that for me, Darlin’,” he teased.

“You’re lucky there’s any left. I’ve already had three pieces, though why, I don’t know. I’m not a bit hungry.”

Jake scrutinized Jessie—it was unusual for her to binge on food. Something must really be bothering her. He observed for quite a while, but she didn’t volunteer anything. Finally: “Okay, the jig’s up—what’s going on?”

“Whatever do you mean?”

“Don’t give me that—you’ve got something on your mind. Are you mad because I’m so late tonight?”

“No, of course not, Jake. I know those trips take up a lot of your time. It’s nothing, really.”

“Nothing, huh?”

“Well….”

“Well, what? You’re worrying me, Jess.”

“Well, if you must know …” Jessie took a deep breath, “you’re going to be a father!”

“Wha .. what?” After a moment, Jake’s face lit up in a huge smile.

Jessie looked blankly at him, not knowing what to say. She wanted to be happy about this, but thoughts of the business kept entering in. Would she have to give up her career?

Jake noticed the look and, trying to determine how she felt, asked tentatively, “Are you happy about this, Jessie?”

“I … of course, Jake, I know I should give you a family. I’m just concerned about how I’ll be able to work with the baby and all.” As he looked down at her face, a tear slowly formed and ran down her cheek. She tried to brush it away quickly, but not before Jake saw it.

Oh God, what have I done? He moaned. She’d told him she didn’t know whether she wanted kids … they should wait until she was ready. Why hadn’t he been more careful?

“Jessie, Honey, please don’t cry. We’ll work this out somehow—don’t worry. You can work or stay home or whatever it takes for you to be happy.”  He brightened: “We can find a nanny or something! And I’ll help, too—even … change diapers, anything! Please don’t be sad!”

From the next room, Maggie overheard their conversation. She normally wouldn’t eavesdrop, but worried about the way Jessie had acted all evening, she’d made excuses about work to be done and stayed later than normal. Now this revelation was more than she could stand.

She scurried into the kitchen and announced, “No, you ain’t gonna hire no nanny, Mr. Jake. I gonna take care of that baby for y’all.” Then to Jessie: “Don’t you worry, Missy, you know I will love that little’un like it was my own, so you jest stop worryin’. Ever’thing will be jest fine.” Her smile stretched across her happy face.

“Well, you’re so busy with the housework and all …”
“No, I ain’t. You and Mr. Jake is so neat, it ain’t no trouble ’tall to take care’o this place. And that sw-e-e-t baby will be a lot o’company for me. ‘Specially since Jasper in school now.”

“That’s wonderful, Maggie,” Jake answered. “And Jessie, you can talk to Ben and work out a schedule for the office—maybe you can come in later in the day, or whatever … you’re the boss, after all, you can set your own schedule. Ben will handle the rest!”

Jessie smiled. She knew Maggie would love the little one and spoil him or her so—she was the kindest, gentlest soul. Maybe this would work out after all.

“Will you promise to continue your reading and lessons when the baby’s napping?”

“Yes’um.”

Ben was ecstatic when Jessie relayed her news: “Of course, Sis, we’ll manage. You take as much time as you need; when the baby comes, plan to stay home awhile if you want. I’ll come by to discuss the important things with you. And to see my new little niece or nephew!! Naturally, I’ll have a hard time filling your shoes, but don’t worry about it – if I need you, I know where to find you. Just be happy and enjoy this time with Jake.”

Jessie launched into work at the office. She occasionally drove out to the sites and asked advice of her brothers about the latest developments. She wanted to complete as many of the current projects as possible, so that when the baby came, she could devote time to the little one.

She began to eat more regularly and took a long walk each evening, down toward the river. Even though it was getting a bit colder, she bundled up and enjoyed the fresh air and wild beauty of Mother Nature’s countryside. She read a booklet from Dr. Blanchard’s office on expectant mother’s care; like everything she had always done,  she wanted to do the best at being a mother that she possibly could.

She noticed Jake was coming home earlier lately. I guess this is really for the best—he’s so happy.

Once the baby started moving inside her, Jessie knew for sure that this was right; the maternal instinct took over and she grew increasingly happy that she was going to have this special child – hers and Jake’s. She started thinking about names and wondering whether this little person would be a boy or girl. If it was a boy, she hoped he would look exactly like his handsome father. If it was a girl, she wanted to name her Mary Susan after her beloved grandmothers.

She was amazed at the feeling she began to develop for this tiny life inside her. Jessie became very protective of the little one and careful about everything she did, especially driving. She reduced her trips to the sites and asked Jason or Matt to exercise Blackie with a ride occasionally. But often she’d find herself at the barn, stroking her beloved riding partner with a soothing voice: “After the baby comes, it’ll be me and you again, okay, fella?”

The next few months passed quickly. Big Spring grew as Oklahoma’s population continued to boom. A second surge of oil discoveries between 1915 and 1920 established nearby Tulsa as the “Oil Capital of the World,” where oilmen such as William Skelly and J. Paul Getty built stately mansions and modern headquarters.

Big Spring was not as large, but per capita, its income rivaled many of the larger cities. As McCarey Oil’s exploration also boomed, work became frantic for Jessie. It seemed she spent scant time at home. And when she was at the tiny apartment she and Jake rented in town, she stayed busy sprucing it a bit—cleaning, painting, building shelves to expand the limited space.

Jake didn’t seem to mind, though, because building his delivery routes filled his time. Jessie tried to keep his route schedule on her desk, but due to the nature of his cargo, plans changed so frequently she found it difficult to keep her copy up to date. His runs varied from Big Spring to Kansas City to St. Louis, or Tulsa to Wichita. He occasionally had a longer run to New Orleans, also. Jake’s schedule made it hectic for him, but as long as he appeared happy, Jessie was content.

Business was so good for the family, Jessie bought a car to drive back and forth from work, home. and out to the drilling sites. Even though busy juggling projects at the office, she occasionally made time to see how the field operations were going. She relished getting outdoors, never tiring of the scenery down the country roads.

On one trip in the car they’d purchased, filled with supplies, she weaved through the rough, nearly un-navigable paths, crossing low streams and passing wagons pulled by horses. Many of the ‘roads’ were nothing more than old Indian trails. She gingerly eased her car behind a wagon, being careful not to get stuck on the higher part of the ruts. Should-a driven the boys’ truck!

Jessie determined to bring the board of directors out here for a visit. See the way the money’s made; let them get their hands a little dirty. Her instinct told her that might really get them fired up for the new projects she had in mind. Watching the hands ‘spud in’ (begin drilling) or ‘make a trip’ (change out drilling parts) was much more exciting than reading a description in a progress report.

Jessie’s full attention lately concentrated on convincing the board that they should enter into a joint venture with the Townsends’ company, to build a railroad spur from their producing fields to the main S&O rail line. A new concept, one the board was skeptical of, particularly because Townsend Oil was one of their main competitors. But she had Ben all prepped for battle with figures for the board. She’d done her homework and felt this spur would be crucial to them, if oil prices ever went up.

However, with the glut of crude oil on the market (crude price had dropped from a dollar and five cents to thirty-five cents a barrel) and the economic condition of the whole country, it would be difficult to sell the board on this proposal. But that was exactly the reason for the co-venture: to raise the needed capital.

Jessie always looked toward the future; she knew that if this company were to survive, they would have to be aggressive in their decision-making. Lately, she and Ben were exasperated at the board’s lack of confidence in their proposals. Why, look at what hiring those chemists and setting up a Research and Development group in the company had done—they were selling products that had previously been burned off or dumped as waste material! Their gasoline production increased, and she felt confident that the market would soon take off, as more and more automobiles were sold.

They’d located a plant to extract the liquids from the natural gas, with a method of cooling and condensing the gas vapors. The innovative ideas and resulting patents their chemists were pulling off was impressive. The catalytic research alone looked promising …

When she reached their latest drilling site, Jessie visited with Tom for a while about the operation’s beginnings. “Tommie, remember when we first started? How much trouble the men gave me?”

“You kiddin’? How could I forget?”

“Well, I heard on the news last night that several women who picketed the White House for voting rights some weeks ago were severely beaten and jailed.”

“Yeah, it’s a wonder anyone ever found out where they were; some were nearly dead before their families discovered they’d been jailed and got them released.”

“If even our own President believes women who want rights should be institutionalized, I am one lucky woman.”

“I hope they’ll be all right. Sad, really. No one deserves that kind of treatment.”

“They are so brave. Think we’ll ever get to vote?”

Tom shrugged his shoulders: “Dunno – beats me.”

“Well, I want you to know how much I appreciate your support. I’m so blessed to have such protective brothers. It can’t be easy, constantly defending your crazy sister.”

“It’s my honor, Jess. You’ve proved your mettle—you’ve got a good head for business. By the way, want to run something by ya: you know, over on the Townsend leases they keep building new rigs, but I think we should come up with somethin’ we can move from site to site.”

“Oh, you’re getting into this business thing, now?” she teased.

“Yeah, guess so; you’ve even convinced me, an old hardhead. You always get your way, don’t ya, Jess?”

“Not always, but extremely pleased I did this time. So glad we’ve been able to put our differences aside and work together. It’s meant more to me than I can tell you, brother,” she added softly.

“Me too, Jess.”

“By the way, that’s a fan-tastic idea: ‘portable rigs’ – now who would have thought of that but you, Tommie?” Jessie asked proudly.

Jake paced up and down the small hotel room. He’d been seeing Jessie McCarey now for several months and he knew without a doubt: She was the one. Jake had never been uptight about a woman before; of course, he’d not been anxious to marry one, either.

He’d been too busy enjoying his freedom. And, trying to drum up work. Finally, he tired of the pacing pattern around and around the room and decided to ride out to the McCarey ranch.

When Jake drew close to the house, he spied Tom and the twins reworking some sagging fences. I’d never take for granted what that woman thinks. Maybe talking to the boys, I can get a feel for what Jessie really thinks of me.

“Hi fellas, working hard?”

“Only when we hav-ta!” Jason joked.

“Yeah, it would be a lot easier to slack off if’n Tom wasn’t here,” Josh interjected teasingly.

“Well,” Jake suggested, “Why don’t you three slackers take a break and talk to me about something?”

Tom looked quizzically at Jake. “What’s up?”

“Well, I … Well, uh …”

“This must be about Jessie. Spit it out, man!”

Jake grinned, then grew a bit sheepish. “You’re right—it is about Jessie. How do you think she feels about me?”

Tom threw his head back and laughed out loud. The twins joined in, and soon they were all poking fun at Jake.

“What’d I say that’s so funny? Will ya let me in on the joke?”

Tom finally regained his composure and replied: “It’s just funny that you’d even have to ask, that’s all.”

“Well, I think she likes me and all, but I’m serious, I mean serious about her. I need to know, fellas.”

Josh interjected: “Well, I’d say she was plum crazy ’bout ya, wouldn’t you say, guys?”

Jason and Tom both nodded their agreement.

“Crazy, huh? Crazy enough to marry me, you think?”

“Marry??!!” three voices yelped all at once. “All right!!”

When Jake reached the house, he found Kathleen and Gus McCarey snuggled together on a swing outside on the veranda. He admired, for the upteenth time, the lovely wood-framed house Gus built for his family. Nothing like this back east, he thought.

He tipped his hat. “Good evening, Mrs. McCarey. Sir.”

“Good evening, Jacob,” Kathleen answered him with one of her beautiful smiles.

“How you been, son?” Gus asked.

Jake began to relax. These people always made him feel at home—they were good people. And until lately he hadn’t realized it, but he longed to be part of a real family. He’d felt an emotional distance from his father and brother for a long time.

“Oh, just fine, keeping busy drumming up work. Is Jessie around? I checked at the office in town, but they said she was home today.”

“Yes, she’s home. Around back, Jake.” Kathleen took Jake’s arm and strolled toward the back of the house. She pointed, indicating where Jessie vigorously brushed up a sheen on a handsome black stallion outside the barn. Kathleen discreetly turned back to continue her chat with her husband.

Jessie’s sunlit hair, haphazardly pulled up with combs, moist curls escaping on her forehead and down the back of her neck, emphasized how hot and dirty she was from working on the sweaty horses. Jessie’s expression showed complete surprise in Jake’s visit.

Jake strolled over to a large elm tree behind the house and motioned for Jessie to follow. He could fathom the expected exasperation on her face. But before she could chew on him for coming by unexpectedly and seeing her in such a state, he leaned over and quickly silenced her with a kiss. She looked up in astonishment as he touched her face, softly wiping away a dirty smudge on her cheek with his thumb, then gently caressing a wisp of curl next to her earlobe.

“You su
re look beautiful today, Miss McCarey,” he said, smiling down at her.
“Well, thank you, sir. I always appreciate receiving compliments from a gentleman—if they’re genuine, that is.”

“Oh, this one’s genuine, all right. I think you look so gorgeous, I think … I think I’d like to take you right into town and marry you. What would you say to that, Miss McCarey?”

He waited. Jessie stared at him for a long time. Finally: “You come out here to ask me to marry you, looking like this?!! I could just kill you, Jake Trenton!!”

“Will you marry me, first, Jessie? I need you and I don’t want to be without you anymore. I’m sick of that room in town and being alone, and waking up without you and ….”

“Okay.”

“What’d you say?”

“I said yes, I’ll marry you. When do you want to do it? How about half an hour? I have a few more chores to do around the house, by then I’ll be really good and dirty; we could do it right after the chores,” she teased.     ‘”Jessie McCarey, I love you, you wild woman.’ “You’d better, Jake, because I … love you, too.”

“Well, that’s what your brothers say!” Jake laughed.

When Jessie explained to Jake that it would take a little while to plan the wedding, he replied that he hoped it wouldn’t take too long. When she promised that she and Mama could probably get things arranged in a few weeks, Jake was pleased.

Each went on with their daily work routines, Jake stopping by the ranch to see her on the evenings he returned to Big Spring from his delivery routes.

Jake warned Jessie on more than one occasion about his ‘wanderlust’. “I’m infected with travel, Jessie; you sure you can live with a man who roams the earth? And sky?”

“I get pretty distracted myself, Jake, and sometimes tune people out. You’ll have a few of my bad habits to get used to!”

One rare relaxed afternoon, Jessie and MaryBeth examined fabric at Jeremiah’s store in Big Spring. Jessie fussed a bit, unable to decide what material would be right for her wedding dress. She looked through various muslins and a few silks, examining each swatch by holding it in front of her face at the long, oval mirror in the corner of the store.

Jessie picked up a different bolt and asked: “Ooh! MaryBeth! What do you think of this color?” She put a swath of shiny, apricot-colored silk next to her face.

MaryBeth nodded approvingly. “If you’re not going to wear the traditional white, that would look lovely on you; it accents your hair color.”

“Well, I think I should have my own traditions. It is my wedding. Of course, there is Granny Mary’s dress … For tradition’s sake, Mother probably would like me to try and salvage it. Perhaps I could adjust it a bit more to my taste. Really, it’s only those tight sleeves with the silly puffs I’m not fond of. What would you think if I replaced the sleeves with shorter ones, perhaps of this lacy ivory material …?”

When MaryBeth nodded, suddenly Jessie asked, “When are you and Ben going to do this, MaryBeth?”

Caught off guard, MaryBeth blushed. “He’s asked me,” she shyly and quickly dropped her eyes.

Jessie laughed. “So, when are you going to agree to marry him?”

“When I get enough courage to be a married woman, I guess.”

“What are you talking about? Ben adores you!”

“Well, you know, the..the….”

“The … what?”

MaryBeth motioned for Jessie to follow her outside. They walked behind the store and sat down on an old bench.

“Well?” Jessie questioned.

MaryBeth leaned close and whispered: “The … married part. I don’t know anything about it.”

“What’s there to know?”

“Intimacy, that’s what!” Then MaryBeth looked around anxiously, to see if anyone had heard.

Jessie was taken aback. She’d never heard MaryBeth raise her voice. “Are you afraid of se—?”

“Sh!! Jessie! Somebody might hear!”

Jessie exaggeratedly whispered: “Well, that’s what it is, you know.” After seeing the shocked look on MaryBeth’s face, she added: “Okay, ‘making love,’ is that better?”

“Much. Do you think it’s … difficult?”

“Difficult? Are you kidding?”

“Well, that’s what Mam-maw always says. That it’s something married women have to put up with. She makes it sound like men are beasts!”

Jessie threw her head back and roared with laughter. She laughed and laughed till she was nearly weak. MaryBeth waited for her to calm down and then said, “It’s not funny, Jessie, I don’t know what to do!”

Jessie got herself under control and put her arm around MaryBeth. “Okay, we’ve been friends for a long time and we’ve talked about a lot of things, right?”

“Yes, that’s what I like about you—you’ll tell me … anything.”

“You listen to me, now, and you disregard what that grandmother of yours said, you hear me?”

“I’ll try.”

“At first, it may be awkward for you. I’m not going to lie to you about that. The reason I say that is because I know how embarrassed you are about undressing in front of … even me. I’ve noticed it for a long time, but didn’t make a fuss; afraid it might make you more timid.”

“Well, I do have a little trouble with that.”

“Okay, after you get undressed, Ben will want to kiss you and touch you. In places I’m sure he never has touched you … right?”

“Oh, Ben’s always been a gentleman!”

“Well, you need to try to relax and let him kiss you or touch you wherever he wants …”

MaryBeth looked horrified. “Wherever?”

“Yes, wherever. I know Ben loves you, and he won’t be an animal, believe me. When you get used to it … you’ll love it!”

“Jessie!! You haven’t??!!!! … How … do you know?”

“Oh, silly goose, Mama told me. She said her great-granny had scared the be-jeebers out of women in the family about it, like your grandmother has you. But Mama believes that was probably because Great-Grampa was pretty much … well … a drunken louse.” She giggled.

MaryBeth looked down, blushing again.

“Don’t get prudish on me now. I’m telling you the truth.”

“Aren’t you a bit scared?”

“Sure. I guess.” She grew thoughtful. “Actually, no, to be honest, I’m anxious. It’s all I’ve thought about lately, especially when I’m spending close time with Jake. If you know what I mean …”

MaryBeth blushed again. “Oh my goodness! I don’t know if I can do this like you, Jessie.”

“You can if you’ll just trust yourself and trust Ben. You love him and he loves you.” She grew serious. “Mama says it’s the ultimate offering—the gift of yourself. And besides, you know it even says in the Bible: the two become one. ”

“Oh, Jessie, you make it sound so wonderful! I … well; maybe … it will be all right!”

Jessie noticed the look on MaryBeth’s face. “Oh, quit that blushing, right now! Trust me on this. Have I ever led you astray about anything?”

“Well … there was that time you got us into trouble for playing hooky and going for a dip in Miller’s pond.”

“Oh, other than that! You just can’t let that die, can you, girl? I’ll never live that one down!” Jessie chuckled and added: “I’m serious as death this time. You know I wouldn’t deliberately mislead you.”

When MaryBeth smiled, Jessie reached her arm around and hugged her friend again.

“We sure had some good times in school. ‘Member when Roger swung way sideways on that rope at the creek and broke his arm?” Marybeth asked, giggling.

“How could I forget? Miss Riley volunteered me to write out all his homework for him. He sure enjoyed bossin’ me around!”

Exchanging secret smiles, they returned to the store thinking the same thing:  It was so great to have a best friend. And now they’d be sisters.

A few days later, Ben approached Jessie in her office. “Have you been talking to MaryBeth?”

“She’s my best friend; yes, I talk to her all the time. Why?”

“She told me today she wanted to marry me, that’s what!”

“And … the problem is …?”

“I couldn’t get an answer out of her till that day after you two went looking at things for your wedding. What did you say to her?”

“You mad at me?”

“Heavens, no; I’m grateful! I just wondered why she had changed so much. She seems more relaxed and happy.”

“Well, I told her you loved her more than anything in this world, that you’d die for her, and that being married to you would be the most wonderful thing that ever happened in her life.”

“You said all that?”

“In a manner of speaking; yes.”

Ben kissed Jessie’s brow. “Thanks ever so much, Sis.”

“You just make sure you don’t ever let her down, you hear me? I know you love her, but don’t you ever hurt her! She’s so delicate, so fragile. You might be my big brother, but I’ll make you pay if you do …” Jessie made a fake, menacing scowl.

“I won’t, I swear.”

Ben smiled and Jessie softly answered, “I know.” Then she added: “How about making it a double wedding?”

“You mean it?! You wouldn’t mind?”

“She’s my best friend, remember?”

Jessie and MaryBeth talked their fiancés into setting the wedding date in May. The girls wanted an outdoor ceremony and felt that by that time, the weather would cooperate. It did. The twelfth of May was a gorgeous Oklahoma day. Trees and prairie grasses painted the landscape vibrant green, brilliant wildflowers sprang up everywhere, dotting the green with profuse colors. Unexpected but appreciated: little wind. Perfect day for a wedding.

Jessie’s brothers did all the expected mean things: wrote teasing little signs and left them everywhere, put rice in her bed the night before, poked their heads into her room several times to see if they could catch her in her underwear so she’d shriek at them. It went on all day.

MaryBeth brought her things to the McCarey home in the afternoon so they could get ready for the ceremony together. As the girls were giggling together, Kathleen gently knocked on the door. When Jessie asked her to come in, Kathleen told the girls how lovely they looked and hugged each of them.

As Kathleen was about to leave, Jessie quickly put her arms around her mother and drew her back. “I know I don’t tell you often enough, Mama, but I love you very much. Thank you for everything you do—you’re always here for me when I need you. Times like this make me stop to appreciate things … like you sewing the altered sleeves on my dress, playing the music, detailing the cake, flowers, all the lovely things you’ve arranged for this wedding.”

Kathleen replied: “I’ve so enjoyed planning this wonderful day with MaryBeth’s mother. It’s been such fun; we’ve become even closer friends. And, it’s the least I could do for my girls…now I’ll have two daughters!”

Kathleen kissed Jessie’s cheek, then turned and kissed MaryBeth. As she quickly wiped away a happy tear: “I better get downstairs to set up the piano arrangement while the two of you finish dressing.”

As Kathleen softly closed the door behind her, MaryBeth picked up some minuscule apricot-colored flowers lying on the dresser.

“I asked Matthew earlier if he could pick some wildflowers in the meadow down by the creek. I told him the colors I wanted, and he’s such a sweetheart…he was so excited, he flew off to help. See what Matty found … they are just perfect, so delicate.”

“Wow, you remembered that’s my favorite color!”

MaryBeth brushed Jessie’s long hair till it glowed and then gently French-twisted the silky sides, plaiting a few loose braids in the long curls in back, and then entwining tiny bits of the flowers into those braids.

Jessie helped MaryBeth adjust her veil, and stood back, awestruck at MaryBeth.

“You’re exquisite! With those golden curls and sky-blue eyes, you’re like a fragile, porcelain doll. No … an angel!”

“You’re the one who’s beautiful,” MaryBeth replied. She smiled adoringly at Jessie, who’d decided against wearing a veil. “Your hair looks like Gwenevere’s. You’ve such vibrant beauty; you don’t even need decoration, Jessie.”

“Well, we’d best get down to the two luckiest men in Oklahoma, before they change their minds,” Jessie teased.

The McCarey and Stockton families and many friends gathered outside. The men had set up rows of chairs and tables along the side, to hold the huge cakes, china, and arrangements of flowers Kathleen and MaryBeth’s mother had lovingly created. Jason and Josh acted as ushers, flirting outrageously, all the while escorting the ladies to their seats.

As the girls came down the back stairs, Gus took Jessie’s arm and MaryBeth’s father grasped hers. Gus pecked Jessie’s check as he escorted her around the corner to the back porch. There he nodded for Kathleen to start playing the piano.

The lively chatter quieted. Gus and Jessie walked down the aisle created by space between the rows of chairs, Mr. Stockton following with MaryBeth.

As they turned to watch the lovely sight coming toward them, Ben extended a handshake to Jake. When they reached the grooms standing under a trellis of flowers, Gus placed Jessie’s hand in Jake’s and Mr. Stockton tenderly kissed and laid MaryBeth’s hand into Ben’s.

Pastor Murphy beamed as ladies sniffed into their hankies. After a moment, he began:  “I have known the McCarey and Stockton families for a long time now. Ben, Jessica and MaryBeth have been like my own children—I’ve come to love each of them for their rare qualities. And it’s been a real pleasure getting to know Jake these past weeks—I already sense he is a fine man. Miss Jessie, here, is lucky to have him.”

The pastor winked at Jake. As the audience chuckled, Jessie wrinkled up her nose and then grinned at the minister.

“Jake, before you’re committed, you do understand Jessie is quite the wild one, don’t you?”

Everyone roared this time, MaryBeth fighting to suppress her giggle. Ben bit his lip. And Jake winked at the minister.

“It is always a pleasure to assist wonderful young people such as these engage in that practice God so highly esteems: the holy state of marriage. It is not something to be entered into lightly, but reverently. So now, I must become serious.” He paused.

“These two couples come before us today, of their own free will, to join in this glorious state. If there be any present who have reason why they should not be joined together, let him state so now, or forever hold his peace.”

After a short period of silence: “Then, let us begin. Would you bow with me?” The two couples knelt before the pastor. “Lord, please bless these fine young people. Give them Your love; send them the Spirit of Your Presence, to help them throughout all the days of their lives. We thank you for your blessings and ask this in the name of your beloved Son, Jesus.”

The congregation joined in: “Amen.”

Pastor Murphy indicated the couples should rise. Then: “Do you, MaryBeth, take Benjamin, to have and to hold, to love and to cherish, in sickness and in heath, until death do you part?”

“Yes, I will.”

“Do you, Benjamin, take MaryBeth, to love and cherish, for better, for worse, in sickness and in health, til death do you part?”

“Yes, Sir, I do.”

“And, do you, Sarah Jessica, take Jacob …”

“Yes.”
The minister looked intently at Jessie. “I hadn’t finished your part, Sarah. I wonder if I need to put in the ‘obey’ clause?”

“If you really think it’s necessary …?” She smiled innocently.

“Let’s just continue … do you, Jacob, take Jessica, to love and to cherish, for better, for worse, in sickness and in health, til death do you part?”

“I most certainly do.”

The minister indicated to the best men, (Tom and MaryBeth’s brother, Harry) that they should extend the rings. After Ben slipped MaryBeth’s gently on her finger and Jake placed Jessie’s on hers:      ”I now pronounce that these two couples are … uh … men and wives. That seems a bit awkward. How about … man and wife … and man and wife?”

As the audience chuckled, Jake looked tenderly down at Jessie and whispered: “I promise I’ll always love you, Jessie McCarey…Trenton. Don’t you ever forget that!”

“You’d better, Mister!”

Jake smiled and watched Ben give MaryBeth a gentle kiss, as the audience clapped for them. But Jake roughly brought Jessie into his arms and gave her a rousing kiss that lasted a long few minutes. Everyone clapped again, whispered deliciously, and then heartily laughed before it ceased.

The following Saturday found Jessie exhausted. By four o’clock, she headed for home, a bath, and some sweet rest. A couple of miles before reaching the ranch in the car, she and Jason were intercepted by Jake Trenton on horseback.

“Hello, Jessie, I’m just on my way over to your place. Are you busy tonight?”

Jessie’s first reaction was to tell him that she was really tired, but instead she found herself answering, “No, not particularly. I was heading home to take a bath and just relax.” She glanced down at her filthy clothes. “As you can see, I’m in dire need of it!” She laughed at herself.

Jake smiled. “How about if I come over around seven o’clock and take you out for that ride in my plane? It’s not too far away, about a quarter-hour by horseback from your house. It’ll be light for quite a while.”

“I believe I’d enjoy that,” she heard herself saying.

“Okay. See you at seven.” He waved and rode off toward town.

Jessie turned and headed the car gingerly down the old trail toward home. “Too bad we don’t have roads in here.”

Jason cantankerously mimicked in a falsetto: “I thought you were ‘so’ tired … home tonight for a bath and bed.”

“Don’t make me whack you, silly boy.”

Actually, she wondered to herself why she had accepted Jake’s invitation. She needed some sleep badly. “Oh, well, maybe the bath will revive me!” She chuckled.

When she arrived home and eased into the tub, she found it indeed worked miracles. Changing into a clean riding skirt and a white cotton blouse, she felt relaxed and more energetic than she earlier had thought she would. However, she might just take off work at the rig tomorrow. Because she’d worked some every single day for months, she figured they could do without her.

Jake arrived promptly at seven o’clock, clad in freshly pressed pants and a nice blue shirt. As she answered the door, Jessie wondered to herself who ironed his clothes for him. She laughed at the thought – as if it were any of my business. Maybe I’d rather not know. She took Jake’s arm and led him into the kitchen, where most of the family still assembled, talking, after supper.

“You all remember Jake Trenton, don’t you?”

They nodded, and Tom came around to slap Jake on the back. “What’s happenin’ with you two tonight? Got a date?”

“Yes, as a matter of fact, I came to take Jessie up in my plane this evening. It looks like a good time—not much wind tonight.”

Kathleen looked anxiously at Jessie. Jessie immediately recognized the look, reassuring: “It’s perfectly safe, Mama, lots of people are flying these days.”

Before anyone else could object, Jessie quickly took Jake’s arm, telling him they probably should be leaving. They walked outside, where he’d left his horse tied to a porch rail. When Jake noticed Tom standing nearby, he mounted the horse, then extended his hand to help Jessie on behind. Tom cupped his hands and gave her a boost up.

“I’ll have her back home soon,” he said to Tom and the twins, who’d followed them out to the porch.

“Have fun. Next time it’s my turn,” grinned Josh.

“Me, too!” exclaimed Matthew.

“Sure, I’ll take any of you up that would like to go. Anytime I’m not working,” Jake promised.

They rode off toward the clearing where Jake kept his small plane. Jessie wrapped her arms around Jake’s waist and enjoyed the rhythm of the horse moving beneath them. Soon, they reached the clearing, and he helped her down from the horse.

When they climbed up into the plane, Jake asked: “You sure you’re up for this?”

“You bet! Why do you ask?”

“Well, I’ve had people chicken out on me before,” Jake grinned.

“Not this little chick,” Jessie teased back.

“Good girl.”

Jake explained to Jessie about the instrumentation and principles behind flying the plane. He showed her the fuel-tank gauges, oil-pressure gauge, speed indicator, and manifold-pressure gauge.

“This is the control lever. We call it a ’stick’. Up and back movements of this stick move the elevators up and down and change pitch. Side to side movements change the position to produce roll. When coordinated together, these movements give the control necessary to make properly banked turns.”

Jessie asked, “How does the plane stay up?”

“Good question. Here’s a cram-course in aviation training: airplanes take off and climb because the propeller system produces a forward thrust greater than the combined ground and air resistance. The result of that forward motion makes air flow over the wings, which, because of the shape and incline, generates upward forces greater than the total weight of the plane.”

Jake took Jessie’s hand and held it outside the window of the plane. “Feel the wind on your hand, Jessie. By inclining your hand with respect to the wind, can you feel the upward or downward force?”

She nodded. “Is this what they call the ‘lift-to-drag’ principle?”

“Yes … yes, that’s exactly right! Aviation enthusiasts have learned that up to a certain angle where turbulence is small, lift increases. Past a certain angle, though, the smooth flow breaks down and the lift-to-drag ratio lessens rapidly. About two-thirds of the upward reaction comes from suction air pressure over the top of the curved wing and about one third from the undersurface.”

Jessie asked, “How do you control the speed?”

“Air speed is a function of thrust, controlled by the engine throttle setting. This is the throttle.” He pointed to a lever. “Ready to try it?”

“Oh, yeah!”

“Okay, but first, buckle up your lap and shoulder belt. With this open cockpit, might drop you out on your head!” he chuckled.

“Done. Let’s go!”

Jake quickly tightened the slack on her shoulder harness, started the engine, and maneuvered the plane until it had turned around in the opposite direction.

“Got to take off with the right direction in the wind,” he explained.

Soon, they were airborne and Jessie felt breathless. Ooh … it feels so cool up here! She watched as they climbed higher and higher and was amazed at the look of the fields, houses and terrain below. It appeared like one of Grandma’s zig-zag quilts: a picture … a miniature model of everything.

Gosh, it’s incredible! She immediately understood Jake’s love of flying – it felt like lightly floating … and she did feel so free! On their turns, she watched the blazing red semi-globe of the sun slant against the horizon, exhilarated at the sense of the world tilting beneath her.

Because of the loud wind noise, Jake motioned to Jessie to watch his hand on the control instrument. She felt the movement of the plane as he moved the stick around. Jake turned to look at her and smiled as he watched her reaction: no fear whatsoever on that face; he instinctively knew she was having the same euphoric emotion he always experienced while up high like this. He began to feel a curious reaction about Jessie, one he’d not experienced with a woman before. It surprised and … disturbed him a bit.

After a short run, only a few miles around the countryside, Jake turned the plane around and headed back to the clearing. As soon as he touched down, he heard Jessie exclaim: “Golly, what a ride! That was absolutely thrilling!!”

As they rode back toward the McCarey ranch, Jake felt Jessie lean against him more heavily than on the ride out. Poor kid—she must be exhausted. He imagined how hard she must be working.

They reached the ranch just as the dusky sky began to concede to the dark. Jake slipped quickly off the horse and gently eased Jessie down. When Jessie asked if he’d like to come in for coffee and pie or just sit and talk awhile, Jake tenderly tilted her chin up and brushed her mouth with a soft kiss: “I think I’ll pass on that nice offer tonight. Another time?”

“Sure,” she smiled up at him.

Jessie watched Jake ride off, and then turned inside to find the twins and Matt waiting for her, snickering wickedly like a bunch of hyenas. She surmised they’d spied that kiss from behind the curtains. She sleepily turned upstairs to bed, the sweet sensation of it still caressing her lips.

Looking down over the banister, she called: “Oh enjoy yourselves, you little devils.”

Tom completed his errands in Big Spring and decided he sure could use a cool drink. He debated about a soda over at Jeremiah’s store, but finally thinking, What the heck, surrendered to a beer at Clinton’s Tavern. Sitting at the bar, he began to reminisce about the last time he’d been in here—the day Ben and Stephen brought Jessie inside this dump.

Tom glanced around, almost as if to check to make sure Jessie wasn’t here again. Guessing his mind, the bartender jokingly asked, “Whatcha doin’? Lookin’ for your little sister?”

“Who knows? What a pain in the butt she can be sometimes!”

The bartender laughed and brought him another glass of beer.  “Tom, she ain’t been back in here, so don’t worry. That day was fun. She give us all somethin’ to talk ’bout, anyhow. We gotta real kick outta her.”

Still grimacing at the thought of Jessie’s antics, Tom felt a tap on his shoulder and turned to find a tall, dark-headed man grinning crazily at him. Tom studied the man a moment before recognition spread across his face. “Jake, Jake Trenton! What in the world are you doing in Big Spring?!!” Tom grabbed the man’s hand and pumped it heartily, all the while vigorously slapping Jake’s back with his free hand. Tom was thrilled to see the friend he’d connected with while working for Uncle Duke in Pennsylvania a few years back. Though the two had become fast friends, Tom never dreamed he’d see Jake again.

Jake continued to smile at Tom. “I kept hearing about all the hubbub going on down in Indian territory, so I decided to come to Oklahoma and see for myself. What luck! I just got into town and was about to ask where I might find you, when lo and behold, I see you’re sitting right there.”

“You gonna be here long?”

“That depends. I’m trying to drum up some business in this area. Sick of the hassle back east and thought I might try my luck elsewhere.”

“What kind of business you lookin’ for?”

“Well, I finally got my pilot’s license and financed a small plane. I want to do some delivery work, barnstorming, crop-dusting … whatever I can find.”

Tom smiled again while asking, “So you went and learned to fly, did ya? I figured that was a just a pipe dream without your papa’s money.”

“It was tough, especially not taking anything from Father to do it. I worked hard and saved the money myself. Finally attended that school the Wright brothers set up. There are only a few registered pilots right now in the whole country, and I’m one of the few!”

“That’s great! Glad to hear it. I know a few folks around here; I’ll recommend you. Hey, you won’t believe it, but I’m kinda involved in a risky business myself right now,” Tom said.

“Really? What are you doing?”

“My family’s drillin’ for oil. Just got started and already brought in several good wells. Hopin’ for more. This seems to be a good area for it.”

“Yeah,” Jake replied. “I’ve been reading about the excitement of everything booming here in Oklahoma and Texas and decided this might be a ripe area for opportunity. Let’s have a drink and toast to successes for us both.” Jake raised his glass and clinked against Tom’s.

Tom was ecstatic about the thought of Jake doing business here in the area. He just couldn’t believe it! Tom told Jake a bit about his family and asked Jake if he’d like to come out to the ranch for supper sometime to meet them. “Mama would be real pleased to have you stay for dinner,” he assured Jake

The invitation touched Jake. He told Tom, “That would be really nice. Perhaps in a few days.” Then added, “I’ll be busy for a while, contacting those prospective customers you mentioned.”

Tom finally asked, “Hey, what you doin’ Saturday nite?”

“Probably busy hustling work every day, so I’ll get a room at the local hotel and turn in early. Why? Anything special going on?”

Tom responded that there would be a big dance in town and lots of people from the area would be there, especially mentioning pretty girls. “My sister Jessie should be there,” he added, “but I can’t make you any promises on getting a dance on her card.” Jake hesitated, replying that he didn’t know; he’d see how his schedule would be lining up later in the week.

Tom tempted, “Jake, can ya take a minute to ride out with me to one of the sites we’re drilling? I’m finished for the day, just need to drop off some papers Ben asked me to pick up.”

Jake responded, “I would definitely be interested in seeing how the work is done, but I probably should settle in for the evening. I want to make early contacts tomorrow.”

“Aw, come on, Jake … come on! You’ll be back before dark. I can borrow a horse for you from a friend of mine down the street.”

“Well … okay, it’s been such a long time since I’ve seen you, but remember: I can’t stay late. I’ve got to start making a living.”

“Won’t take long, and you can meet some of my brothers. They should still be at the rig. Let’s go!”

When they reached the site, Tom introduced Jake to Ben and explained that he’d invited Jake to see their operations. When Jake told Ben he didn’t want to be in the way and would stand off to the side, watching, Ben reached out a bear-sized paw and squeezed Jake’s hand. “Any friend of Tom’s is always welcome.”

Ben politely took time to explain to Jake how the drilling was done. He described ‘spudding in,’ cable tools, using mud for cooling the bit, etc. Always interested in learning new things, Jake was impressed with the operation.

Ben’s attention to explaining the parts of the rig was distracted by murmurs of some of the other men. The men began looking out toward the road, so Ben, Tom, and Jake followed their glancesin that direction.

Weaving across the dirt road at a good rate of speed, a Model-T furiously scattered dust. As the car bore down toward them, Ben thought that the driver would begin to slow down, but it kept coming at the same speed, directly at them. His crew looked anxiously at one another and jumped away from the car’s path. About ten feet from them, seemingly at the very last moment, the car swerved around the rig and hurtled a ditch to the side, finally bumping to rest against a soft mound of spewing dirt.

Ben strode to the car, prepared to direct a few choice expletives at the driver, when Jessie jumped out, a smile stretching the width of her face. “Hi, Ben. Jason’s giving me driving lessons! Isn’t it grand?! I already love driving!!”

Ben gave Jason a dark look as he exited the passenger’s side. Jason sheepishly shrugged his shoulders, as if to say, You try and stop her when she wants to do something.

Jessie recognized the look and quickly rattled:  “Oh, Ben, don’t lecture Jason; I kept at him until he agreed to teach me. After all, I’m sixteen months older than the twins, so I should be able to drive, too. It will be so useful, and now I can more-quickly run errands for you, which you know will help out here on the rig. The steering’s not too bad; but that ‘shifting’ and clutching is what I have to work on. What do you think of my first test drive—pretty good, right?!!”

Ben’s dark glance faded into one of mild annoyance. The other workers began to laugh and joke around with Jessie.

“Well, Jess, I wouldn’t exactly say you were ready for racing yet, but knowing you, you’ll get it. I won’t be surprised if perty soon you’ll be wanting to compete with the likes of Ray Harroun at the Indy.”

While she beamed up at Ben, excitedly chattering on, Jake’s glance appreciatively took in the slim figure (in an old shirt and worn pair of … looks like a cast-off pair of boys’ trousers), the windblown, shiny hair, and the animated expression. Jake decided this trip had been worth the time: Here was a woman he’d like to get to know. But that would have to come later.

Before he could become further delayed with conversation, he turned toward the borrowed horse. Jake quickly asked, “What time did you say that dance starts Saturday night?”

Tom smiled as he responded: “It’s still eight o’clock, like I told you. Did ya have a change of heart?”

“Believe I did. See you Saturday.” He grinned as he got on the horse and rode off toward town.

The weather on Saturday evening turned out to be the perfect complement for a dance. Open town hall windows enabled everyone to enjoy the cooler evening breeze. Conversation buzzed loudly, young men shyly talking with pretty girls, youngsters playing and running in and out, older people in groups talking about the town growing, or the weather, crops, and the latest problems with the farming. Oil workers, freshly scrubbed, admired the local girls. Streamers decorated the ceiling, and ladies busily arranged punch and cookies on a long table. The band musicians organized their materials in the far corner. There an old patchwork quilt covered the solid stacks of bailed hay that would act as their platform. Fellows began strumming their guitars, preparing for the evening’s entertainment.

The McCarey family all rode to town together in their wagon. Gus wasn’t ready yet for a drive in that newfangled horseless buggy. Besides, there was not enough room in it for everyone, anyway.

Gus slid his long legs over the side of the wagon and held his arms up to Kathleen. As she elegantly descended, he smiled proudly at how lovely she looked in a long, swirling white dress dotted with tiny blue flowers. She took his arm to enter the dance.

Ben helped Jessie down, and as they strolled in, he told her she ‘sure was pretty.’ She’d brushed her light, coppery-gold hair till it lay in a soft, shiny pageboy at her shoulders. In her nicest frock: an off-the-shoulder style in a color that nearly matched the sea green of her eyes, Ben knew she’d get plenty of attention, as usual.

Sure enough, as soon as they entered, the Bradford twins eyed them and headed straight in the direction where they stood. Ben offered to get Jessie something to drink, but she looked at him imploringly: Please don’t desert me here with these two. The Bradford twins, a year younger, always stuck at Jessie’s heels like little lost puppies. She liked them both, but they seemed so immature; she sometimes felt they were real pests.

Ben winked and said he’d be right back. Before he could return to Jessie with a cup of punch, he spied MaryBeth Stockton sitting with her family.  Now, Ben had been thinking of asking MaryBeth out for some time, but with being so busy at the site, he’d scarcely had time for anything other than work. Looking back toward Jessie, he pointed toward MaryBeth.

Jessie smiled and silently mouthed ‘O.K.’ to him. MaryBeth was Jessie’s best friend, and Jessie had schemed to fix them up for some time. Ecstatic, she watched Ben offer MaryBeth the glass of punch.

Tom was also pleased when Jake strolled in a little later. As they shook hands, Tom introduced him to the family members who were sitting nearby. Ben had already pretty much become enthralled with MaryBeth, and Jessie was surrounded by fellows requesting dances. Like a sentry, Tom observed Daniel Morgan across the room, staring intensely at Jessie.

Jake noticed Tom’s expression: “Trouble?”

“Not sure. Jilted ex-suitor.”

Jake laughed.

Shortly, Daniel caught Jessie’s eye and nodded politely. When Jessie smiled back, Tom relaxed and picked up two cups of punch. Tom then winked at Jake and indicated they should step outside the back door. There Tom poured a homemade concoction into their cups from a bottle in the wagon, and the pair went back inside.

Jake watched Jessie off and on, most of the evening. He courteously requested dances from a few of the girls Tom introduced him to, but in between, scarcely took his eyes off Jessie. He noted that practically every single man in the place had either offered to get her a drink or asked her to dance, even an old man named Red Stephens, her current partner. Quite the dancer for his age, probably about seventy-five, but still Red appeared a lively fellow. Jake found Jessie’s animated demeanor and good-natured laughing at Red’s jokes quite appealing. She seemed to be enjoying a break from the twins’ over-attentiveness. Red swung Jessie around and around, so she was actually doing a lot more of the dancing than he was, her skirt and blazing copper hair spinning. She soon became flushed from their quick pace to the two-step music.

After she’d danced with several local boys and each of the twins a couple of times, Eli Bradford headed toward her again. Jake noted Jessie’s grimace toward Tom: Oh no, not again!

Tom started across the room, but Jake tapped him on the arm and offered: “I’ll handle this assignment.” Tom chuckled and strolled over to a pretty brunette sitting alone.

Just as Eli asked Jessie for the next dance, Jake smoothly slid his hand under her arm and down toward her hand, clasping it in his.  “Sorry, fella, but I believe the lady promised this one to me.” Eli seemed disappointed but backed away in a gentlemanly manner.

Jessie looked up curiously at Jake but allowed him to lead her onto the dance floor in a slow waltz. “I suppose I should introduce myself—my name’s Jake Trenton.”

Jessie scrutinized the tall, dark-headed man she danced with. She thought him rather good-looking, maybe twenty-six, twenty seven …? “Oh…yes! You must be the friend of Tom’s I’ve heard so much about. I’m pleased to meet you and especially appreciative of the rescue.”

Jake smiled down at her upturned face. Cute little nose, especially with those sunny freckles splattered across. Not a classically beautiful face, but extremely pleasant to look at. He noticed a tiny crescent-shaped scar at the left side of her chin. Wonder what mischief wrought that …?

He thought it refreshing that she smiled often and bet she was a very good sport. Good-looking, smart and a pleasant personality, he mused. “My pleasure,” he responded sincerely.

When Jessie asked him if he was enjoying his stay in Oklahoma, Jake responded that yes, he liked this part of the country. “The people are so friendly, and I’m excited at the prospect of finding some regular work here.”

At the end of their dance, Jessie looked back toward the side of the room where young men had vied for her attention all evening. The twins and several other young men were sitting or standing nearby, waiting. Jake discerned her glance and asked if she’d like to go outside for a walk. She said that she was a little warm from the dancing and would enjoy some air. Jake led her outside, amusedly aware of the disappointed sighs from across the room (including that of the apparently too-late-in-acting ex-beau …).

Walking a short distance from the building, they came upon a sturdy fence. In a comfortable manner, Jake put his hands at Jessie’s waist and lifted her up to sit on one of the rails. He stood quietly next to her as they wordlessly enjoyed the clear night full of stars, a cool breeze and the faint strains of the music wafting from the town hall.

Finally, Jessie asked, “So you think you’ll be able to do some flying here, Mr. Trenton?”

“It’s Jake.”

“Oh. Okay … Jake. You think you’ll find work? Flying must be so exciting!”

“I’ve talked with some people here and in several other towns. I think I may be able to do some delivery runs for them. Could always do a little barn-storming and, if worse comes to worse, charge to take people up for rides. Yes, it’s fantastic being up there, high above the world. Makes me feel so free. Would you like to go up with me sometime?”

“Really? Are you kidding? I’d love to! I … just don’t know when, though; I’m completely swamped with work lately.”

“Yeah, I’ve heard about your family’s operation. You sound like quite a little businesswoman. But maybe you can work in a little free time.”

Jessie blushed at the compliment. “We’re giving it a try—I’m hopeful we’ll be successful. We’re incorporating the family business. I think it will be beneficial, especially having more investors to absorb some of the expense and responsibility.”

“Sounds like you’ve planned where you’re heading. That’s a rare, admirable trait—knowing what you want.”

He smiled down into those mesmerizing eyes. Jessie blushed again, and it confused her. She was normally very self-assured with people, even men, but this man was having an unusual effect on her.

Jessie grew quiet. Neither spoke for some time, but they seemed comfortable enough together. Jake looked down at her face, content from the music playing faintly in the background. He could hear the romantic lyrics: “How could I help … falling in love … with the prettiest girl in the county” and was stirred with the thought of kissing her.

That charming pair of big green eyes mirrored the moonlight’s illumination, seemingly beckoning to him. Her glance never wavered from his, and before she knew it, his lips touched her soft, moist mouth; she closed her eyes. It began gently at first, and then he kissed her more and more urgently. He bent his head and slid his mouth slowly down her warm, smooth neck, wisps of soft hair caressing his face. Exhaling a warm sigh of contentment, her fingers instinctively reached up, stroking the hair at the nape of his neck.

When her upper body pressed closer toward him, he lifted her from the fence, experiencing a rush of heat as the length of her slid down against him. She smelled so good, a little like violets. He kissed her again and again, till they were both nearly breathless, before he finally tore his mouth away from hers.

It took Jessie a moment to recover. She heard Jake say something about going back in with the others as he led her back toward the dance. To be perfectly honest with herself, she had to admit she was a little disappointed that he wanted to stop, but then she chided herself for allowing a stranger to kiss her —and so intimately: Shame on you, you hussy. It was really curious, though, how trusting she felt with him, as if it were natural for them to act this way.

They lingered just outside the door and listened to sounds of the dance ending. People milled around, talking and laughing as they were leaving.

Jake whispered, “Looks like we timed that just right.”

“Yes, I suppose so,” Jessie answered wistfully.

He looked down intently at her and laughed softly. “Don’t you think for a moment I’m through with you, Miss McCarey. I’ll be around to see you soon. If that’s okay with you …?”

“I’d like that.”

They stealthily reentered the hall. When they’d located her family, Jake turned to her parents: “It was very nice meeting you, Ma’am, Sir.”

“We’re happy to meet the friend Tom’s spoken so highly of,” Kathleen said, then added, “Come for supper soon, Jacob.”

“Thank you, Mrs. McCarey. I’d enjoy some home cooking.”

“I see you’ve met Jake,” Tom commented wryly in Jessie’s direction as he approached the group.

Jake smiled. “Yes, and Jessie has agreed to come flying with me. I’ll ride over next week to visit,” he whispered purposefully to Jessie as he turned and strode toward the door.

“Just like that?” Tom teased, pleased for a change in Jessie’s taste in a man.

“Yes, I suppose … just like that.”

Within a few days, Jessie rented cheap space in an old building in Big Spring. Soon it gained the appearance of an office—although pretty rough-looking: wooden crates for desks and chairs, but that was all right; like Ben, she didn’t want to spend money too quickly.

She easily persuaded Roger Clayton into joining them, and the two busily set up contracts and invoices with buyers and worked on procedures to account for and transport the crude oil. They daily pored over logging reports, expenses, all kinds of invoices and papers.

Roger suggested they propose a drilling contract with Willie Smithsom, who owned some of the adjoining property to the Manns’ place. That would prevent other wildcatters depleting the reservoir they’d discovered. Jessie agreed that would be a better legal asset than just a stay lease. Though Mr. Smithsom didn’t have money to drill, if they didn’t get that option, someone else would quickly buy it from him.

One evening after a hard day’s work, Jessie confided: “Rog, this is so great—us working together. It’s like the good old times at school! Remember helping me with my math? I’d never have passed without you.”

Roger agreed with a smile: “It is great, Jess. And … don’t give me too much credit—you paid me back, writing those danged essays. Man, I hated all that English stuff; but it just seemed natural for you—you knocked out those papers in record time. I’m glad you invited me in on this—it’s a great opportunity.”

“Do you suppose … in case we go belly-up,” Jessie asked hesitantly, “… that the Townsends would give you back your old job?”

“Well, you never know, but they can’t seem to find anyone who enjoys bookkeeping, so thy’d probably be glad to have me back. If not, I’ll find something else. Big Spring is booming.”

“Good! I’m feeling a bit guilty. But you were the only choice for this job, Roger. I’ve always admired what a good head you have for figures.”

Roger looked wistfully at her. For some crazy reason, he could never bring himself to say so, but he thought: I wish that weren’t all you admired.

Jessie beamed at him as they closed up the office for the evening. Roger had to smile back. He could never be sore at her, no matter how disappointed he felt. She was like a best friend.

He could kick himself for not having let her know earlier how he felt. Roger just sensed he couldn’t compete with the likes of that banker’s son. When he’d heard they’d broken up, he was initially ecstatic but couldn’t believe Daniel Morgan wouldn’t be back after his temper cooled off—she was special. If she didn’t make up with Morgan, Roger clung to the hope that sometime she might notice him for more than just a platonic friend.

Jessie’s hunches proved right. The next nine wells the family drilled came in before they ever struck a dry hole. The company suddenly looked very prosperous.

As Ben, Jessie, and Roger grew more and more involved in the administrative work at the office, Tom and Jason watched over most of the operations at the sites.

Once they were financially able, Jessie promised to hire a foreman to oversee the drilling work. Then, Tom would be able to return to the ranch (his real love) to help their father. Jason, quickly becoming quite the businessman, would assume drilling decisions along with their foreman.

All along, Josh and Matt spent most of their time at the ranch, as sales of horse stock, surprisingly, began to increase.

Stephen worked at the rig through the summer, and then headed off to law school. It was satisfying that the family could help with his tuition, and Stephen could fully concentrate on school rather than the expenses.

Roger was continually impressed with Jessie’s growing knowledge of the oil business. Not only did she quickly comprehend the financial statements he prepared for her, but he often marveled at her discussions with Ben, Tom ,and others about faults, traps, porosity, specific gravity, geology, etc. All he could think, as usual: what a woman!

In spite of Ben’s misgivings, within a few months Jessie, Roger, and Mr. McPherson completed the paperwork for incorporation of McCarey Oil Company, registered in Delaware, with Ben as president. Jessie knew it would be best for now if she appeared as Ben’s behind-the-scenes ‘assistant.’ Remembering how hard it had been to convince Sim of her ability, he finally agreed it would probably be easier that way, rather than Jessie needing to force her authority on customers, employees, etc.

It bothered Ben that he’d be getting the attention for their success, but Jessie assured him she was content (as long as he respected her judgment and involved her in the decision-making.)

“Ben, I’m realistic about what I can do. I’ve heard of women getting whipped for even asking their fathers or husbands about business or things like voting. Doesn’t matter what the legal papers state. We’re partners; that’s the way it’ll always be.”

“I could never have done this without you, Jess, believe me,” he assured her often.

Jessie was relieved the family was doing well financially. Soon, she and Ben agreed they could spend less time at the rig. They hoped their family could take turns working on Sundays, so each could get back to attending worship services. The drilling never shut down, so they committed to hire more hands and rotate daily assignments. Fully knowing it probably wasn’t a priority for most of the roughnecks, but that way, the others could attend if they wished.

Jessie knew Pastor Murphy was concerned about their absences. He often came to the site on Sunday afternoons for Bible study during the employees’ breaks. Though she gave their dedicated, good-natured pastor a bad time, she honestly wouldn’t impede him. Oklahoma was still so wild; a little moral influence couldn’t hurt any of them. She wouldn’t push religion on the men; that was their call. And besides, Pastor Murphy was such a good man, funny and witty, the workers just naturally responded to him.

Their parents, especially Gus, were enormously proud of their children. Gus knew some gambles were worth taking, and this one was paying off.

He often thought to himself: McCarey Oil! McCarey Oil Company! He just couldn’t believe it—what a legacy. Gus wistfully wished that his own father, their rock, who had slaved in the coal mines to feed his large family, could have lived to see his grandchildren’s success.

But the McCarey brood’s papa was far too hard on himself. Gus should have realized his father would have been proud of his bold adventure: the scary move to homestead in Oklahoma. And more importantly: that Gus and Kathleen were raising such a gutsy, yet honest family. The McCarey family had the kind of trustworthy reputation and respect that people envied—something not bought with money.

About three weeks into the drilling while the family’s crew was fully engaged ‘pulling’ the drilling bit, Daniel Morgan dropped by the site. Daniel scrutinized the situation, unseen from the side for some time, before approaching Jessie. Hauling away a bucket of dirt, she looked really hot and dirty. From his stance, he appeared obviously displeased with her appearance and particularly that she was the only woman around.

Finally, he strode over to Jessie, tapping her shoulder: “I’d like to talk to you— over there.” He jerked his head and pointed to a tree a short distance away from the others.

Jessie turned and beamed up at him. “Hey there! Did you come to see our operation? I’m so glad you stopped by.”

“Actually, I came by to see what you are up to, since you haven’t had time to see me for weeks …”

“I’m sorry, Danny, but we’ve really been swamped with work. I’ve been meeting myself coming and going, working in town, at home, and out here, too.”

“Just what exactly are you doing out here?”

“I would think that’s obvious—I’m working.”

“I can see you’re working, but what I want to know is, why?”

“Danny, you must know that we’re operating here on a shoe-string, so all of us have to help out. Hopefully, if we strike oil, we’ll have some revenue coming in and things won’t be so tight financially. When that happens, I’ll only have to oversee the work and keep the books.”

“Oversee the work? Why can’t you let Ben take care of that!?”

“Because this is my business; I want to keep my hands in what’s going on. You know me—I relish learning and trying new things. This is like an adventure to me.”

“Yeah, well, you’re always getting into things you shouldn’t be. Why can’t you just stay home and do the normal things a woman does—like help your mother?! I don’t think it looks good for you to be out here with all these men!”

Her brothers glanced in the direction where Jessie and Daniel were talking—or rather, Daniel yelling. They couldn’t hear the conversation too well but had a good guess of what was transpiring. The boys shook their heads, each thinking in his own way: Daniel sounds like he’s about to push Jessie into a very volatile mood, which won’t be advantageous for him. Jason grinned and winked at Ben, who shook his head and went back to work.

Secretly, Ben hoped Jessie would quit seeing Daniel Morgan. Ben was of the opinion that Daniel thought himself better than most other people, because he was the banker’s son and well off. Ben appreciated people for their good qualities; wasn’t impressed by how rich they were. To Ben, character was everything.

He’d stayed out of Jessie’s private business—Jessie must see something worthwhile in Morgan. After their night together in that barn … and apparently Daniel hadn’t tried too hard to have his way with her, [otherwise, Ben would’a had to kill him] … well, Ben had to begrudgingly admit: perhaps the guy genuinely cares for our sister. His thoughts were broken by a rise in the pitch of Jessie’s voice.

“You don’t think it ‘looks good’? You don’t think it ‘looks good’!! Well, I don’t give a flip how you think it looks! I’ve got work to do and I plan on doing it. If you can’t speak to me in a civil tongue, then leave!”

Daniel’s voice took on a dangerous tone: “If I leave, I won’t be seeing you again, Jessie. I wish you’d go on home and think about this.”

Jessie hesitated. She looked at Daniel for a curiously long time, as if she were seeing him for the first time. Finally: “There’s nothing to think about, Danny. This is something exciting for me, and I won’t change my mind. If you can’t deal with it, then perhaps we don’t have anything worthwhile between us.”

“So that’s it, just like that?”

She took a deep, deliberate breath to calm down, and then answered: “You’re the one forcing me to decide—you shouldn’t make me choose between you and having a life. I’m not going to stay at home and spend my entire life washing dishes and scrubbing floors. I know that’s important work—and I help Mama as much as I can—but there are other experiences I want to explore. I’ve got to have a life of my own.”

“Well, if that’s the way you feel, I guess we’re through. I want a wife that will stay at home and help me with a family.”

“A wife? You’ve never said anything to me about marriage.”

“I figured you knew. I thought we understood each other.”

Jessie hesitated. Finally she answered: “Obviously not, if you think I’d sit at home with no outside life.”

“You’d have a great life —I’ll need you to help entertain clients … important clients …”

“What … a waitress? Do you think that’s what I am? That’s just not what I want. I wish you’d cared enough to get to know me before you started planning my life.”

“I thought you were an intelligent woman. Guess that’s my mistake—I thought I did know you.”

“Obviously, you don’t understand me at all. When did you take the time to discuss this with me? I have to tell you, marriage is the furthest thing from my mind for a while—I’ve got a business to run.”

“You’ve got to be kidding!! Women can’t wait to get their hooks in a man. All women scheme to get married!” he growled.

Jessie could see this conversation was leading nowhere. She slowly and deliberately responded: “Not all. Goodbye, Danny.”

She calmly turned and started back to work. Daniel, furiously red-faced, stared for some time; then got on his horse. The others all watched as he lingered a moment, but Jessie never turned back to acknowledge him. Finally, he violently spurred his poor horse and rode off.

Ben and Jason grinned smugly at each other.

Shortly thereafter, Jessie had her first problem with the men at the rig. For the most part, the hands had begrudgingly admired her perseverance and endurance working tirelessly around the well. However, skinny, wiry Pete Ware began to make unwanted gestures and insinuations toward her, when he noticed her brothers weren’t close by. He became especially fond of playfully tugging at the buttons on the front of her shirt.

She tried reasoning with him: “Pete, don’t do that—we have to work together. This is distracting for everyone, and we can’t afford it—we’re on a tight budget and schedule.”

But he stubbornly continued; egged on by the other man he hung out with. They laughed and elbowed each other, mocking her, until Pete finally got bold enough to grab Jessie and try to get his hands up her under her shirt. He snickered: “Come on, sweet little honey, gimme a little kiss—I bets ya really knows how to treat a man.”

Jessie shoved him off and slapped him, hard. “Pete, I’m not going to put up with that, do you understand? So make up your mind if you want to work here.…”

Jessie stomped over to the water bucket to get a drink and calm down. Pete and a few of the others continued laughing and making jokes about her figure and snide remarks about what-all they’d like to do to her. Jessie ignored them, thinking they’d eventually tire of their game and leave her alone.

However, Tom heard part of what transpired and strode over to tell Ben and Jason: “I knew this would happen, having her out here! Can’t believe it hasn’t already. What are we gonna do?”

Ben sat, silent for a moment, then replied: “We’re not going to do anything, as long as she seems to be handling it.”

“Not do anything? It’s only gonna get worse. This is no place for a woman!”

Ben retorted: “And just what do you think we should do about it? If we fire those men, we won’t be able to keep up a crew.”

“I wasn’t talking about firin’ the men,” Tom replied quietly. “I think we should send Jessie home, where she belongs.”

“And just how do you propose we do that? If you will remember correctly, this operation is Jessie’s. She did all the legwork and is completely responsible for starting what’s goin’ on out here. As long as she can handle it, I think we should support her.”

“Support her, he–!”

Jason interrupted: “Tom, you ’member that huntin’ trip Papa took y’all on two years ago, up north?”

“Yeah, what has that got to do with this?” he demanded.

“Well, if ya think back, Jessie wanted to go real bad. But for once, Papa told her no; that he didn’t think it was the kinda trip she should be on.”

“And…?” Tom asked impatiently.

“Well, ya know as well the rest of us that Jessie can sit a horse for days, and she’s as good a shot as any of us. Jess would make a heck of a hunter, given half a chance. She wanted to go on that trip so bad, I felt guilty I turned it down.”

“So?”

“So … after you all left, she wandered around the stable, real quiet-like, and I followed after her, somewhat behind. Then she went down to’ard the creek and I wus worried, so I snuck down after her. When I got close’nuff to see her, she was sobbing so hard, it shook ‘er body. Man, it ’bout killed me to watch how sad she was! Went on for maybe half-hour! I was sure she’d be sick.”

“So, she felt sorry for herself and had a good bawling spell. Women do it all the time.”

“Not like ‘at, they don’t. She wus so disappointed, it scared me. If you’da seen ’er, you’d understand. Anyway, she didn’t pout and act up about it like a baby. She had a good cry, then splashed her face with water in the creek and headed back home. She went in and helped Mama with the warshin’ the rest of the day. Can you ‘magine bein’ the only girl in the family? Expectd to do warsh’in and iron’in all day, rather than bein’ outside enjoyin’ the countryside? Made me awful glad to be a man, ya know? I’d hate to be stuck with that kinda life, wouldn’t you…? Think about it!”

Tom grew thoughtful as he faced Ben and the others. Frustrated, he stared over where Jessie busily jotted notes. She glanced up and smiled at him.

“Well, maybe I am a little hard on ‘er, but you know, she’s kinda hard to take sometimes.”

They all nodded in agreement and, laughing, slapped him on the back. Ben nodded, hinting in Jessie’s direction.

Getting the clue, Tom ambled toward Jessie, who was taking a needed break with a drink of cool water. “Jess, I heard what happened earlier. You okay?”

“I’m fine, Tom, don’t be concerned about me.” She looked up at his worried expression. “Really. I can handle the likes of Pete Ware. You remember that shiner I gave Jason when we were about the same size? If Pete tries that again, I’m going to punch his lights out!”

He smiled down at the way her cute little nose wrinkled up—the sweet gesture of a little girl. “Yeah, I sup’ose you can. But if you find yourself need’in a hand, you let me know, okay?”

“Thanks, Tommie, I will.” Then she looked up at him with such a tenderness, he was forced to turn away before she saw the emotional turmoil in his face.

About two weeks into the work, Jessie and Ben critically studied her logging reports. They’d reached a depth that exceeded what Sim felt reasonable for continuing the drilling. Sim told them he thought they might be ‘throwing good money after bad.’ Jessie asked Sim to have the crew continue for a couple more days. If they hadn’t hit oil by then, they would discuss moving the drilling equipment and trying a new site before their funds ran out.

Ben looked worried, so Jessie admonished: “Cheer up, Big Bubba; we knew this wasn’t going to be easy! Besides, Tom noticed a rainbow sheen on the creek yesterday … a sure sign of some kind of oily stuff around here.”

“I know, Jess; I need more of your optimism. I just worry about the money and …”

He glanced over where one of the explosives shooters built a fire by whittling and burning sticks of dynamite. She followed his look and laughed out loud when he moaned.

“Makes it kinda excitin’, right?” she teasingly drawled.

“Oh yeah … oh yeah, … I just luv some of the stunts these guys pull. Can’t wait to see what they come up with next!”

Ben wearily resumed work and Jessie continued writing her notes.

During a later rest break, Jessie noticed Pete Ware stroll over to the area where they’d stored dynamite and sat down. Some of the others were off at a distance, smoking. Resting in the shade a further distance away, Ben and his brothers languished propped up against the supply wagon.

Jessie noticed one of the hands throw down his cigarette and soon after, a thin trail of fire licked down the pasture. She wondered if someone had spilled some powder there, or something else flammable. It suddenly occurred to her that the fire could spread down toward the dynamite. She yelled at Pete, but he was too far away to hear her. She waved and signaled to her brothers. Determining they were even farther away from Pete than she was, Jessie took off running toward Pete.

Tyrone spied Jessie frantically running and yelling, waving her arms toward Pete. Quickly sizing up what was happening with the fire, he took off at a dead run toward her. Because of his height and leg strength, Tyrone easily overtook Jessie; rather than waste time haggling with her, he shoved her to the ground, sprinting on toward Pete.
Pete finally looked up, but still hadn’t caught sight of the spreading trail of fire, so didn’t understand what Jessie had been signaling. Tyrone grabbed Pete, and, pointing to the spreading flames, ran with him in the opposite direction, where they flung themselves into a ravine.

Ben, Jessie and the others began running back. Finally discerning the problem, they also dove to the ground, covering their heads with their hands in preparation for an explosion. In a few seconds, the fire reached the dynamite and the expected, but still-terrifying noise resonated. The wooden shed housing the explosives burst into splinters, dirt spewing everywhere!

As soon as the dust started settling, everyone grabbed gunny sacks, beating at the fire, hoping to stop it before it could spread to the well. Finally, the fire extinguished; each dropped where they stood, exhausted.

Once he regained his breath, Ben screamed: “I’ve had about enough of this loose attitude around here! No one seems to think safety is important, but it will be now! Anything explosive will be stored properly! And smoking will only be done far enough away from operations that we say is safe for smoking, ya’ll got that?!!”

Everyone quietly nodded—they seemed pretty much still in shock.

Jessie spoke up: “Pete, that was an especially close scare for you. Don’t you think you should thank Tyrone for saving your life?”

Pete sulked off: “Yeah, whatever.”

Jessie added: “He risked his own life to help you. He didn’t have to do that. I think you should shake his hand and thank him like a gentleman.”

“Oh ya do, do ya? And just what’ll ya do if’in I don’t? Ya gonna fire me, ‘Boss Lady’?” Pete sneered.

Jessie hesitated and then looked squarely at Pete. “No, I’m not stupid. I could fire you, but I won’t. You’re too good a hand, Pete. I just won’t have any respect for you, that’s all.”

Pete looked around at the others; when most shrugged their shoulders, he glanced back at Jessie. He remembered seeing her frantically waving and running toward him before Tyrone had reached her. Pete had to know she’d risked herself for him, until Tyrone intervened. He gradually walked over to Tyrone.

“Thanks for what ya did.” Pete slowly, reluctantly, stuck out his right hand.

Tyrone hesitantly stared at Pete, and then extended his. “It’s okay, man. I done it for Jessie.”

The others smiled their approval, until Sim yelled cheerily, “Back to work, you slackers!”

Things went pretty peacefully for the next few days—the atmosphere seemed to be more cooperative and friendly. Tyrone finally warmed somewhat to Pete—and, unbelievably, vice versa.

-

Two days later, as everyone labored, an unexpected rumble reverberated from the ground. Suddenly, an explosive roar erupted that sounded something like … a tornado and a train mixed together.

Each looked around at the others, as oil came gushing out of the derrick! Quickly, the immediate area and the workers were covered with a fine mist of black stuff.

Jessie screamed maniacally, jumping up and down. She ran to Ben, threw her arms around his neck, and they danced like crazy people, round and round the rig. She hugged each of her brothers, as Jason and Josh did a mock Indian war whoop. They kept yelling: “We’re gonna be rich … we’re gonna be rich!”

“Doesn’t this stuff smell won-der-ful!??” she joked.

The other workers joined in the celebration. Tom uncorked a bottle of mash from the wagon and offered everyone a toast. They all poked fun of each other, especially Jessie, covered and grimy with the black liquid all over her hair and face. She laughed along, oblivious to the greasy oil—she thought it the loveliest stuff she’d ever seen!

As soon as they regained their composure, Sim and Tom yelled: “Grab those fittings! We’ve got to try and get this thing slowed down!” They began to instruct the workers on how to choke the exploding black gold.

Later, Ben and Tom thrashed out methods of loading the oil to transport it to buyers. A friend had earlier suggested some contacts, so the first obstacle: how to store and ship it.

The next few days were spent containing their prize. Tom had earlier recommended nine-inch diameter wooden pipe to move the crude from the working well to a large storage tank. The oil slowly soaked into the wooden pipe, preserving it and causing it to swell, which sealed the joints connecting the eight-foot sections. Soon, much of their prize was loaded in large wooden barrels, and they were ready to ship to buyers Stephen had earlier contacted.

Jessie sounded out Ben: “While you and Tom figure out the logistics of the supply, we really need to find some office space in Big Spring. I’ve been talking with Mr. McPherson about what we might do to become a company, perhaps a corporation, and maybe put shares of the business on the open market. Get more investors to spread around the risk of our working capital. Why don’t I go into town and do some preliminary search for a location?”

“Sure, you handle all the bookwork and details, Jess—we’ll worry about the operations out here.”

“Okay, I’ve got another idea, too; I’ve been meaning to ask you out about.”

“What’s that?”

“Hiring Roger Clayton to work with us. Now that we’ve got something to sell, we need to accurately account for everything—some better bookkeeping system for company assets, taxes, and sales. Roger would be the best person to help us with this—he’s familiar with the oil business from working with his cousins last summer.”

“You know, Jess, one producing well doesn’t make a company.”

“Yes, but I believe this is just the first of many. We’re on our way, now, Ben—I just feel it!”