Chapter 1: Mom Gets Mad at Husband and Children.
On a clear sunny day in Grantsville, a house sat atop a hill nestled behind a national forest. Carole Powell was in the computer room of the house when she suddenly heard her two oldest children, Kyle and Lisa, engaged in a heated argument. Their muffled voices echoed through the closed door, reaching her as she sat in the room. She immersed herself in her work on the computer, the sound of Kyle and Lisa's escalating argument seeping into the room and disrupting her concentration. As the sounds of her husband Ray's voice filled the air, she tuned in to catch snippets of his conversation with Kyle and Lisa. Instructing them to keep silent, the reason being that their younger sister, Angel, was peacefully dozing off. Simultaneously, Kyle and Lisa both began conversing with their dad, delicately informing him that the fight may have been instigated by either Kyle or Lisa.
They continued to talk over each other until Carole reached her breaking point. She rose from the computer chair, switched off the desktop perched on the desk, and began striding towards the shut door of the computer room. With a firm grip, she placed her hand on the doorknob at the rear of the computer room door. Slowly turning it, she peered inside to find her husband and children engrossed in conversation. Their chatter was beginning to grate on her nerves.
"My patience is wearing thin; I simply cannot bear it any longer. ", Carole said in the midst of a heated moment, she raised her voice towards her husband and children.
Ray, Kyle, and Lisa stared in astonishment at a perplexed Carole, nearly unable to conceal their surprise. However, the sudden awakening of Angel Powell from her nap shifted their attention. Angel gazed at her mom, who was shouting at her and wearing a similar expression.
"Carole, what subject are you referring to?", Ray asked.
"The sound of their arguing just grates on my nerves and I find it unbearable. Your aim is to quell the conflict between them., In the process of relocation, I am embarking on this journey solo.", Carole answered Her steps echoed softly as she made her way toward the elegant master bedroom.
"Dad, is there something troubling Mom?", Kyle asked.
"I don't know, I'll talk to her, you three stay here", Ray answered as he walked to the master bedroom.
In his line of sight emerged Carole with a sleek suitcase. With a swift motion, she unzipped it and meticulously began arranging her clothes inside.
"Carole, let's have a chat for a moment. What do you mean by saying you're moving?", Ray asked as he looked at his wife.
Ray, I want you to know I'm serious about this. I'm embarking on a new journey, venturing out on my own. The incessant bickering of the children day after day is becoming unbearable for me. And you aren't doing well.", Carole answered While she meticulously organized her clothing in the suitcase.
"Carole, why not remain here with me and the children?", Ray asked.
Carole zipped up her suitcase with a satisfying 'zip' and lifted it delicately from the luxurious master bed. As she carefully packed the final garments into the already bulging suitcase, she turned to glance at her husband.
"No, I refuse to remain in this place. I am departing at this instant.", Carole answered She began to roll her suitcase out of the luxurious master bedroom.
As she strode down the hallway, she passed by Kyle and Lisa without uttering a single word to them. Meanwhile, Angel observed her mom and impulsively sprinted after her, shouting her name eagerly. At the same time, Carole was making her way towards the shut carport door.
"Mommy, Mommy, Mommy, Mommy, Mommy", Angel said with swift determination, she sprinted towards Carole.
Carole came to a halt in front of the rear side of the shut carport door. As she pivoted, Angel came into view before her. She sprinted towards her. Carole knelt down, gracefully extending her arms toward her youngest daughter, welcoming her with a loving embrace. Angel wrapped her tiny arms around her mother's neck.
"With tears in her eyes, the child pleaded, "Mommy, please don't go.", Angel said as she was looking at her mom.
"Oh Sweetheart, I'll be ok, it's going to be ok, you'll have Daddy, your Big brother and sister with you", Carole replied.
Out of the blue, Angel burst into tears. Tears streamed down her cheeks and danced across her face.
"Oh, Angel, hush now, hush, hush, it's ok, it's ok, Shh, Shh", Carole said as she was comforting her.
"Dearest Mother, my love for you knows no bounds.", Angel said as Her gaze met her mother's, their eyes locking in a poignant moment.
"A message filled with affection: "And I love you too, Angel.", Carole replied Gently, she pressed her lips against her daughter's forehead.
Carole let go of her daughter, she got up, turned around, she put her hand on the back doorknob on the back side of the carport door, she turned the doorknob, opened the door, walked through the doorway, closed the door behind her, she walked toward the blue Dodge Grand Caravan.
With determined steps, she made her way to the rear of the majestic Blue Dodge Grand Caravan. Beneath the wide open sky, she gently pulled the back door towards her, revealing the spacious interior. Effortlessly, she placed her suitcase on the smooth floorboard of the van before elegantly shutting the back door.
As she made her way alongside the imposing Dodge Grand Caravan, her feet carried her towards the driver's side door. She opened the door on the driver's side. As she settled into the driver's seat, she reached out to close the door behind her. With grace and precision, she inserted the key to her Dodge Grand Caravan into the ignition and twisted it. As she pulled out of the carport and onto the driveway, she began to drive away from the house. As Ray, Kyle, Lisa, and Angel gazed on, they watched her drive farther and farther, the distance growing between them and the house with every passing moment. As they gazed, the Dodge Grand Caravan made a sharp turn at the end of the corner and vanished down the street.
"I am utterly astonished, I cannot fathom the absence of Carole is palpable.", Ray said.
He stood there with the three children, all of them still reeling from the shock of Carole's sudden departure on her own. Ray and the three children chose to follow their usual routines.
In a deserted parking lot by an abandoned Winn Dixie Store, Carole had just parked her Dodge Grand Caravan in one of the old parking stalls. As she pondered her next move, she made the impulsive decision to reach out to her lover, Scott Baxter. Retrieving her smartphone from her purse, she powered it on and began dialing Scott Baxter's number.
About an hour later Scott Baxter answered the phone, Carole was relieved that he was at his apartment.
"Hello?", Scott asked.
"Scott, this is Carole speaking.", Carole answered.
"Carole, Ah, the melody of your voice is a welcomed delight! How are you doing?", Scott asked.
"Dear Scott, I hope this message finds you well. I regret to inform you that I have made the difficult decision to leave my husband and children. Would it be possible for me to stay at your apartment during this challenging time?", Carole answered.
"Of course, Carole, you absolutely can. Do you have any idea about its location?", Scott asked.
"Of course, I know exactly where it is.", Carole answered.
"Splendid! Looking forward to our soon reunion, Carole.", Scott said.
They both swiftly ended the call. Carole ignited the engine of her Dodge Grand Caravan, they accelerated away from the desolate Winn Dixie Parking Lot. aAs the sun set, she cruised down the street towards the magnificent apartment complex known as Bridgewood Estates, the residence of the enigmatic Scott Baxter.
An hour passed before Carole reached Bridgewood Estates. As she pulled into the vacant parking spot, she noticed Scott Baxter standing on the lofty balcony of his apartment, gazing at her with affectionate eyes. After switching off her Dodge Grand Caravan, she stepped out of the driver's seat, shut the door, and made her way to the rear of the vehicle. Retrieving her suitcase from the back, she closed the door and proceeded towards the grand entrance of Bridgewood Estates. Approaching the building, she noticed a call pad on the exterior as Scott's voice resonated towards her.
"Just a moment, Carole. Hang tight. I'll buzz you in", Scott said over the intercom.
"Alright, Scott.", Carole replied.
As the buzzer sounded, Carole swiftly made her way through the main door of the apartment. The heavy entrance closed with a solid thud as she embarked on her journey up the winding staircase and along the dimly lit hallway. Finally, Carole arrived at Scott Baxter's Apartment Door Number 24A, where the anticipation hung in the air. The faint sound of footsteps drew closer, followed by the slight click of the doorknob turning. A grin spread across Carole's face as she locked eyes with Scott Baxter, mirroring his joyful expression.
"Carole, Welcome Home, won't you come in?", Scott asked.
Carole sauntered through the doorway, suitcase in hand, gliding past Scott. As she passed, she felt his fingers delicately graze her thigh, causing Carole to release a soft gasp of surprise. He closed the door behind her.
"Oh, Scott! How I longed for your presence. You were sorely missed.", Carole said.
"Carole, I missed you as well. do you want something to eat?", Scott asked.
"Oh Yes Scott, what do you think about treating ourselves to a cozy dinner of Hamburger Helper, just the two of us?", Carole asked.
"Alright, why don't you get settled in the guest room while I prepare it for us?", Scott answered.
"Ok", Carole answered Her footsteps echoed softly as she made her way to the guest room.
Scott strolled into the kitchen, ready to whip up a delicious meal. He began cooking the Hamburger Helper on the stovetop, the savory aroma filling the room.
"I am preparing a delectable dish of Cheeseburger & Macaroni Hamburger Helper, a flavorful choice that I know holds a special place in your heart, Carole.", Scott said from the kitchen stove.
"Oh, yes! I just love it", Carole replied from the guest room as she was unpacking her suitcase.
As Scott diligently prepared the meal, Carole busied herself with hanging up her clothes, gradually making herself at home in Scott's cozy apartment. As she reflected on leaving her husband, children, family, and friends, she found solace in her decision. An hour passed, and the cheesy aroma of Scott's cheeseburger macaroni hamburger helper filled the air. With a quick prayer, Scott and Carole finally indulged in their delicious dinner at the dining table. Scott gazed at Carole with adoration shining in his eyes. She was looking at him.
An hour had passed, and Scott found himself elbow-deep in soapy water, tackling the pile of dirty dishes in the kitchen sink. Carole, ever the dutiful helper, stood by his side. Scott meticulously washed and rinsed each dish, while Carole skillfully dried them and neatly placed them in their respective spots in the dish cupboards. Carole caught sight of Scott's smile directed towards her. Her lips curved into a smile in response to his, mirroring the warmth in his eyes. They collaborated seamlessly, functioning as a well-oiled team. Afterward, they found themselves lounging on the plush couch in the inviting living room. Immersing oneself in a TV program on the television.
Scott's arm began to gently shift on Carole's shoulder. His fingers began to tenderly stroke her shoulder-length, flowing dark brown hair atop her head. softly. Carole gradually began to relax as Scott gently guided her into the warmth of his embrace, cradling her tenderly in his loving arms. Carole let out a contented sigh as she settled into the warmth and comfort of Scott's embrace. She rested her head against his chest, drifting into a peaceful slumber filled with contentment. Scott gently began running his fingers through the long, dark brown shoulder-length hair on her head. softly. Carole let out a deep, satisfied sigh, a serene smile gracing her lips as she peacefully slumbered. Scott gazed at her tenderly as she remained peacefully asleep in his embrace. He made the choice not to interrupt her delicate dance with dreams. With gentle precision, he lifted her into his arms in a bride-style, with strong arms, he gently lifted her and began escorting her out of the bustling living room. Within the cozy confines of the guest room, with a swift motion, he pulled back the covers of the bed. He tenderly placed her onto the soft bed. He pulled the cozy blanket up to her chin, ensuring she was snug and warm. He tenderly leaned in and placed a soft kiss on her cheek, right by the side of her face, softly.
As he strolled out of the bedroom, he then went to bed. The next morning, Carole and Scott were enjoying their breakfast together. With fondness in his eyes, Scott gazed lovingly at her. As he departed for work, Carole was left to tend to the house, immersed in household chores. Her thoughts drifted to Scott, pondering whether he was thinking of her as well. Scott pondered Carole, his heart aflutter with thoughts of proposing to her. He dreamt of their future together, envisioning a beautiful marriage ceremony in the vibrant setting of Mexico. Embarking on their honeymoon and spending their wedding night in Mexico as well. He began frequenting the nearby jewelry boutique, where he carefully selected and purchased an exquisite engagement ring.
As they strolled through the intricately designed courtyard of the apartment, he was poised to ask Carole for her hand in marriage. Scott gazed at her with adoration as their hands entwined, forging a bond of unspoken affection.
"Carole, there is something I need to share with you.?", Scott asked as he was looking at her.
"Oh, what is it, Scott?", Carole answered as she was looking at him.
"Dear Carole, I want you to know that my love for you is immense, filling every inch of my heart and soul.", Scott said.
Carole beamed at him as Scott lowered himself onto one knee, tenderly clasping Carole's hand. Slipping his other hand into his pocket, he delicately extracted a diminutive square box. As he delicately opened the small square box, his eyes sparkled with excitement. With a flourish, he lifted it up to Carole, who gazed at him curiously, her expression a mix of surprise and anticipation.
"Carole Powell, will you do me the great honor of becoming my partner in life and agreeing to marry me?", Scott asked as he was looking at her.
Carole was taken aback when Scott proposed marriage, but after careful consideration, she mustered the courage to respond.
"Yes, Scott, I will be your significant other in a lifelong union of love and commitment.", Carole answered.
Scott's heart was filled with joy as Carole accepted his proposal. Gently sliding the ring onto her middle finger, he wrapped his adoring arms around her tenderly. Lost in the moment, their lips met in a sweet and tender kiss. softly.
"Carole, I am overjoyed that you have accepted to be my partner in life.", Scott said.
"Oh Scott, my mind draws a blank, leaving me in a state of speechlessness.", Carole replied.
"Carole, let's exchange vows in the enchanting landscape of Mexico, reveling in the beauty of our love as we celebrate not only our union but also our first night as newlyweds.". Scott said.
"Oh, that sounds fantastic, Scott!", Carole replied.
Returning to their apartment, they eagerly delved into planning their upcoming wedding in Mexico. The following morning, Carole and Scott meticulously prepared for their journey by packing their belongings into Scott's vibrant red Toyota Car. They put their belongings in the trunk of the car. Scott strolled towards the driver's side door as Carole made her way to the passenger side door.
With synchronized movements, they simultaneously opened the driver's side and passenger side doors, gracefully settled into their respective seats, and closed the doors behind them. Scott deftly inserted the Toyota car key into the ignition, turned it, and smoothly pulled out of the parking lot stall. As they glided out of the parking lot, cruised down the street, made a precise turn at the corner, and embarked on their journey away from Bridgewood Estates, the anticipation grew. They both knew that upon their return, they would be united as Husband and Wife.
Carole's smile persisted as Scott navigated the car down the street. Her resolve remained unwavering as she refused to turn back to her previous life with her husband and children. Earlier that day, she had boldly sent divorce papers to Ray. His stunned reaction to her decision was inevitable. Eventually, he capitulated and signed the papers, leading to him gaining sole custody of their children. Carole was on the brink of becoming Mrs. Scott Baxter, prepared to embark on a journey as his beloved wife.
About an hour later they arrived at the Mexican Toil Bridge, Scott started paying the Toil Bridge Keeper, he let them in Mexico, Scott continued driving the car, they were on their way to Tijuana Mexico.
Another hour later they arrived in Tijuana, and they went to a hotel, and started settling into their Hotel Room.
Stepping out onto the hotel room balcony, Carole leaned against the railing and gazed out at the vast expanse of the ocean.
