Legacy of the Dreams

Chapter 21 - Portrero Road

Susan was sleeping soundly when Greg awoke the next morning. He was surprised after all the tossing and turning she did when she first lay down. That is, until he found the bottle of sleeping pills on the counter in their bathroom. Greg frowned slightly. He couldn't remember having sleeping pills in the house ... but maybe they were Susan's and he was simply unaware she was using them before. He resolved to ask her about it after she got up, but for now he decided to let her sleep.

"Papa," Melody came looking for him from her room.

"Good morning, Melody," Greg said.

"Momma?" Melody said reaching her hand towards their bed.

"Momma's sleeping," Greg told her. "Come with me. Let's find out who else is up."

"Up," Melody said.

Greg smiled. Picking her up, he carried her to the kitchen with him, looking for whoever might already be awake.

"Good morning, Dad." Alan's voice reached Greg before he actually saw him.

"Good morning, Alan," Greg said.

"What did you find out about Susan's mother?" Alan asked him.

"We were able to make a presumptive identification of Mrs. Abernathy's body based on the items found around her at the scene of the accident," Greg said. "I understand from Susan that Stephen will be coming up today. Hopefully he will have records with him from Mildred's dentist."

Alan stared at his father. "Why do they need that?"

"The car caught fire following the crash. According to the coroner, the remains of the driver were burnt beyond recognition," Greg explained.

"Oh no ... oh, poor Susan!" Alan said.

"Indeed," Greg said as he started the coffee.

"How is she taking it?" Alan asked.

"She had difficulty sleeping last night after we returned," Greg said.

"That's not surprising," Alan told him.

"No, it isn't," Greg agreed. "I expect it will take some time before she is able to sleep normally again."

"What about today, Dad? Is there something you or she needs to do?" Alan asked.

"Until the coroner can make a definitive identification and they have completed their investigation into the accident, the body won't be released. Until it is, we will be unable to make funeral arrangements," Greg said. "However, I may suggest Susan call the funeral home sometime today and inform them of the situation."

"Are Mrs. Abernathy's arrangements already made?" Alan asked.

"Yes. She and Dick made them together more than a year ago. We learned about it last November when he passed away," Greg said. "However Susan will need to schedule the funeral."

"At least there are some arrangements she can make. We didn't even have that much when you were lost," Alan told him soberly.

Greg studied his son. "I'm sorry, Alan. I know that was difficult for you."

"Not as hard as it was for you," Alan said. No one said anything for a moment or two before Alan went on. "Speaking of things that are difficult, are you going to need help with Melody this week?"

"I can care for her. Also, it is possible Rosemary may be able to help out if we ask, once I explain the situation," Greg said.

Alan nodded. "Well, Cindy and I should be gone by noon ... so we'll be out of your way."