My Whole World. Episode 19.

My Whole World is the sixth series in the Dusty Town original historical fiction sequence written by Mary Ann DiLorenzo. Set in rural Kansas just prior to the turn of the century and continuing through the early 1900s, the series follows the Strong family through the challenges and joys of life in Midwest America.

“I’ll Be There Soon.” Episode 19.

“Willie!” Betty Lou greeted him with a warm hug, the same warm hug she always had. That brought some comfort to Willie. “And Jake! My you’re all grown! Well, I’ve got a big hug for you too!”

“How is Pa, Betty Lou?”

“Well, I reckon, not so good. He’s been failin’, even since I wrote you that letter to come back. Come on in, come see him. He may not recognize you, but let’s see. You too Jake, he surely won’t recognize you, big as your daddy now.”

The room was warm, lit by the mid-day fire. Jacob was nodding off under the cozy quilt Betty Lou and Miss Morgan had sewn together. When they came near, Jacob lifted his head, and for a brief moment it seemed he tried to remember the people who were standing there over him. He rubbed his eyes and shook his head, yet he couldn’t remember.

“I’m sorry, I don’t know who you are, but it was nice you comin’ to visit.” And then he whispers, “Willie, is it you? That you Willie? Come here boy.”

“Yes Pa, it’s me. How are you Pa?” Willie kneeled down and gave his pa a kiss on his forehead.

“Not so good boy. Can’t remember anything, can’t do anything anymore, so tired. You really my boy? What’s your name again? You a Johnson boy?”

“Look at me Pa, try to remember. I’m Willie, see.” Willie took his pa’s face in his hands and drew it toward him. “See Pa, it’s me, your boy. And this here is Jake, my boy and your grandson. You used to call him your little man. He’s not so little anymore Pa, tall as us now.”

Jacob squinted as if to make himself remember and for a brief moment Willie saw recognition in his pa’s eyes as he reached a hand toward Willie and said, “Son, promise me, take care of Betty Lou when I’m gone, keep her safe and warm, promise me son, and then I can go see your ma again.”

“I promise, Pa, I promise.”

“Good, I’ll be there soon Maddie, I’ll be there soon.”

Previous Episodes of My Whole World
And Just Like That, Everything’s Changed. Episode 1.
Feeling a Glimmer of Hope. Episode 2.
Uncertain About Everything. Episode 3.
“Don’t Forget Me Dad.” Episode 4.
The Weight of Jake’s Letter.Episode 5.
Months Go By. Episode 6.
Time to Act. Episodes 7 & 8.
Leaving. Episode 9.
Moving Forward. Episode 10.
I’ve Been in Your Shoes. Episode 11.
Meeting John Devan.Episode 12.
Remembering. Episode 13.
Finally, Word from Decatur. Episode 14.
Life Goes Full Circle. Episode 15.
Making Sense of it All. Episode 16.
A Cold Winter Night. Episode 17.
The End is Near. Episode 18.