Five Miles to Paradise

28

Miss Nell sent word that she was going to press charges. There would be a trial after all. She had decided to push ahead.

I read the telegram to Heck as he finished his breakfast.

"Wonder what changed her mind?" he asked.

"I don't know."

"You may be called to testify, Leah. I doubt it, but if you are, I don't know how it will play out. Black woman's word against white boys ain't gonna hold no water. You know that. It won't be easy. The defense will try to destroy you if Miss Nell insists that you are called to testify."

"I know. And I know I don't have much of anything to say. It was dark. It all happened so fast. I really can't say who attacked me. Just that I was hit over the head and left for dead. And an injured black woman, Heck. Who is gonna care?"

"If the case is won at all, it's gonna be for the theft of the car. You do realize that, don't you?"

"Yes. I do. I've lived long enough to know how the chips will fall. And for folks like me, they usually are buffalo chips that rain from heaven, and I have nowhere to run or hide. Folks like me just have to stand there in the storm and be pelted and pounded."

"I hear you."

"But even if they're found guilty of automobile theft, that's something."

"Okay. As long as you know the score going in. I'll drop by Leland's. Get a line on his thoughts. I'll let you know what he says when I get home, tonight."

"Okay. You be careful out there, big Sheriff. Don't let anyone slip you any wooden nickels."

"I won't. See ya, tonight."

We kissed in the hallway, away from windows and prying eyes.

"Roast beef sound alright?" I asked.

"Roast beef sounds delicious," Heck said, donning his hat and heading out the door.

As I gathered the ingredients for a cake, I couldn't help but wonder what had changed Miss Nell's mind. Perhaps, she would call or drop me a note to further explain. But, I doubted it.

"Come on, old girl," I said to myself. "Stop daydreaming, and get to work!"