The Storm

many lives have been disrupted down there and the loss of life has affected the wh ole state, if not the country. It’s just a mess, Delores!” “Zach, I’m just glad that you are home safe.” “I’m going back Delores,” I blurted out. “WHAT? WHY?," Delores asked. “I have to find out about a building that I saw.” “A BUILDING?" Delores almost shouted. “What’s so special about A BUILDING that you would put your life in peril again, Zach?” I went on to explain, “Well it’s unusual. It's sticking up out of an inland lake like a ghost ship with pillars and moss on it. It’s huge! I have to find out w hat it is, who built it, and why." “But this isn’t about the storm, Zach. That’s why you went down there. It was about this huge storm and it’s destructive path!” Delores countered. “I know," I said, "but I already pitched it to Mr. Fessmyer about a return trip, and I believe that there is a story in this." “What did he say, Zach?” she questioned. “He’s good with it if I can pull a story out of it, but it took some convincing," I answered. “I bet it did, Zach, but curiosity killed the cat,” Delores countered. “I've heard that before, Sweetheart, but I’m determined to go, and I’ll be super careful just for you.” She responded, "Do it for yourself, Zach, and don’t take unnecessary risks. I don’t want to lose you in some swamp land, not knowing what happened, and you are beginning to have a great career at the Free Press. Don’t throw it away, Zach. I love you and want you here safe and sound with me.” I gave her a phone hug and promised to be careful and that it would only be a few days. I had never seen this side of Delores, but I knew that she was only concerned for my safety.

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