He was of mixed ethnicity. His father, Franklin Dormer was a wealthy Englishman and his mother, Sumitra was an Indian moor. They met when Sumitra and her widowed mother left their home in Mumbai to work on a tea plantation. The tea plantation was owned by Dormer. He lived there with his wife, Alexandra. They …
Bonding Over Fish & Chips
"Thanks for taking me to the Festival," Chelsey said to Gideon when they were sitting in the restaurant. "You're welcome." "This is a nice joint. Very warm and cozy." "Yes, and they serve the best fish and chips." She smiled. "It has been a long time since I've had that." "Believe me, you'll be happy …
Monifa’s Ordeal is Over
Monifa sat there, her mind still reeling from her horrific ordeal. They had kept her overnight at the hospital for observation but that morning the Doctor had discharged her, saying that she was fine. She was waiting now in the parking lot of the parish for Mrs. Wisenthal. Even though she was no longer in …
An Unexpected Turn
Hours after Sister Riegel had stopped by his office to see him, Father Kiesler walked in. "I apologize for being late," he said to Gracelyn. "Something came up." Truth be told, he had been in the "secret" room with Monifa. When she hadn't shown up to the rectory last night and he became very worried, …
A Curious Discovery
Someone had left a newspaper clipping on the floor outside of his office. Father Kiesler picked it up and read the newspaper article on Father Schmidt. It spoke of all he had done for the community and for St. Albertus Magnus, the co-ed boarding school where students were taught by both resident priests and nuns. …
A Fitting Farewell
Father Kiesler stood there watching as the church sanctuary quickly filled up. It seemed like the entire community was there to pay their respects to Father Schmidt who had suffered a heart attack a few days ago and died. It was Sister Augustin who found him slumped over his desk in the office. She had …
The Breakfast
"Oh, Dear," Margaret exclaimed soon after she sat down at the table. "What's the matter?" Charles asked. "I forgot that I had asked for this bowl of cereal. I don't feel like having it anymore. I would much rather have these two slices of toast with the Apricot jam. Maybe I should just have Agnes …
The Coffin
“What are you doing, Joe?” Daisy asked. “I’m making a coffin.” “A coffin! For whom, pray tell?” “You.” “Me! Why on earth are you making a coffin for me?" “An inchworm made me do it.” “An inchworm? Joe, I think you've been having too much of that ghastly port wine. It’s affecting your brain--what's left …
Meeting McKenzie
I’m a happily married man with two adorable kids. I’m standing here, in front of the magnificent Kelpies. I remember the first time I brought my kids here. Little Brody clung to my legs, terrified. Cora’s eyes were huge in her little face as she gazed up at the massive sculptures. I came here alone …
Memories of Dad
She sat on the beach, watching the sun set over the sea. This was her favorite spot. She came here every Father's Day since her Dad died six years ago. She missed him terribly. A heart attack had claimed his life and robbed her of the joy of having him give her away at her wedding. And …
Notes to Women 