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Discover the Inspiring Hazel S Morgan, Author

Join Hazel S Morgan as she shares her passion for storytelling, drawing from her rich experiences in the nonprofit sector and her love for family and the intertwining of relationships. Explore her world and find your next favorite read!

Introducing Her Works
Stop and Smell the Roses
Chapter 1
 
 
    “So Mrs. Greggory, how does it feel to be an old married woman?”
    “I wouldn’t know.  Let’s see, I’m only 23, and we’ve been married about 3 hours now.”
“Her tone was sarcastic, but Matthew could see the playfulness in her piercing green eyes.
    “Besides what’s it like to have a ring through your nose?”
    “Oh come on now, you know I don’t buy into that stuff.  I’m going to spoil you, and you already do the same for me.  That’s why I married you, or one of the reasons anyway.”  Matthew pressed himself a little closer to his new bride as she smiled sheepishly up at him.  Her eyes were indeed piercing.  They were the darkest green he had ever seen.  One minute Felicia could shine her eyes like two flawless gems, and the next she could use them as if they were darts dipped in the venom from the golden poison frogs of Columbia.    That was really the first thing Matthew noticed about her.  He knew right away that Felicia was a strong woman and a passionate caring one at the same time.
    The church hall, which was usually a stark plain, meeting place, now looked right for the part of an intimate ballroom.  There were rows of tables on either side finely set with white linens, South Hampton China and polished silver, all provided by the caterers.  Colorful bouquets brought warmth to the crisp formal settings.  Candlelight was virtually everywhere acting as both a visual aid as well as a visual stimulus.  It was 6 PM on a wintry February evening.  Nothing was more picturesque as the couple shared their first dance.
    “I’m glad we decided not to wait for better weather in May or June,” Felicia declared.
    “Aren’t you worried that by not waiting people will think I got you pregnant?”
    “Cut it out!  I mean that the snow is even prettier than a hot sunny day.”
    “We can take care of the pregnancy soon enough.”  Matthew grinned as he spoke.  He was an only child and wanted to start a family immediately.  He had a fond childhood and was still extremely close to his parents, perhaps too close if Felicia had her say.  Nonetheless, Martin and Carol were good parents.  
   Martin was a strong heavy set broad-shouldered man.    His hair, what there was of it, was pure white.  His face was wrinkled and jolly as most people enjoyed his company.  He grew up in Ashton and made his own home there with Carrol.  He spent the better part of 25 years working for an insurance firm and last year went into semi-retirement.  Martin made sure Matthew had no struggles in life, yet not without appreciation.
    Carroll Greggory was in opposition to her husband being a tall thin ghostly looking woman.  Her hair was jet black by choice and did not seem to  compliment her colorless shallowskin.  She dressed neat, yet without style.  She spoke direct, yet without warmth.  She was hard to reach, except for Matthew.  He was her one soft spot.  
    When Carroll and Martin were married they had trouble conceiving a child.  Both went to specialists, however nothing physical was wrong.  Carroll took it upon herself to cast the blame on herself.  They waited 7 years until one September day she was pregnant with Matthew.  From then on, he was the love of her life at the cost of caring about anyone else, possibly even Martin. Felicia thought. 
    “Babies!  Here we are just married, and you’re talking babies.”
    “You do agree to be the mother of my children, don’t you”
    “Yes, although it would be a good idea to have a honeymoon first.”
    Nothing more was said as he held her through the remainder of their song, “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran.  As it came to a close, Matthew pursed his lips against Felicia with tenderness.  Felicia felt flushed as if intocicated, only she had not been drinking.  Applause came from every direction as the DJ changed selections on his iPad.
    OK Dad time to dance with your new daughter, and Mom will join in with your new son.”

    Elizabeth Bowers was a handsome woman.  She was slightly plump, yet her height and her manner carried her off as very classy.  She was dressed in an elegant coral La Femme design from Neiman Marcus with three-quarter length sleeves, a low cut back and a small slit up one side. Her hair was short and stylish and she had unusually smooth and youthful skin tone.  As Matthew guided her across the floor he knew Felicia would turn out just right in their later years.  
    “William and I want you to know that if you kids ever need anything we’re there for you.  We’re proud of the two of you and think of you as our own son.”  If there was one thing you could count on with Elizabeth, she was sincere.  If she liked you, she loved you.  If she disliked you, well that’s another story.  But mostly she was kind and good-natured.  
    “Thanks, I think we have a good start.  Our apartment is ready and waiting for us when we get back.  And you know I’m well established at the magazine.  Plus I think Felicia is looking forward to working with me too.”  Matthew received a masters degree in journalism and had already moved up to advertising editor at The City magazine.  He loves his work and thrives on ambition in the business world at least.  It didn’t hurt to put in a good word or two to get Felicia a job as his secretary either.They met in college while she was an undergrad in her senior year.  They were both in an advanced creative writing class, as this was her specialty.  Felicia had no desire to continue onto further her education after graduation, since they were getting married. Some might accuse her of obtaining aMrs. Degree, but she didn’t pay attention to this. She was happy.    Jobs were scarce and so she accepted Matthew’s assistance in getting her “into” the company once they return from their honeymoon. Openly she noted that she hoped to find a niche of her own.  This would help pay the bills for now.  
    There wasn’t too much time to make any more than small talk.  The selection was short, because the DJ knew only too often how uncomfortable it can be dancing with your in-laws.  Soon the Father 
Of the bride was out there with his little girl and Mom with her baby boy all grown up.  Suddenly the room became a swirling twirling of couples moving to the music and making loud conversation.  It was a sheer haze of people wanting to dance with this one and that one doing the Achy Breaky, Funky Chicken and the Electric Slide.  Only a handful of elderly and small children were seated at the tables until it was time for everyone to eat.
    The head table curved in a horseshoe facing its public.  A long cascading centerpiece of exotic wild flowers elongated in a similar fashion.  Felicia and Matthew took their appropriate seats at the center.  Directly to Felicia’s right sat her maid of honor and only younger sister, Hillary.  Hillary took after her sister in looks, yet not in personality.  She was a care free spirit who loved to party.  She was a freshman in college, but didn’t have any true direction.  She made friends easy and still at the same time had no close confidants.  In fact, she planned to take her sophomore year off and travel backpacking in Europe.  Felicia, although she couldn’t understand such irresponsibility admired Hillary for it.  Felicia could only imagine the stories Hillary would come back with.  Hillary didn’t care about stories or writing or any career.  She simply wanted to “have fun”.   She looked gorgeous in her jade green gown.  It set off her blond wavy hair and brought out her eyes almost to the same vividness.  
    Next to Hillary was Tracy.  She wore the same dress as Hillary including the white sash.  Being only 7 years old, Tracy was proud to be the flower girl in her second cousin Felicia’s wedding.  They never spent much time together, except family reunions and summer cookouts, but it sure would give her something to brag about with her friends.  There weren’t very many young children in the Bower family.  So to Tracy, it didn’t really matter that she was somewhat being rented for the day.  

    Lynn Chambers took her place next to Tracy.  She remained Felicia’s long time friend since kindergarten.  She was nothing but ecstatic when Felicia asked her to be a bride’s maid.  Felicia and Lynn did everything together.  They borrowed each other’s clothes, shared each other’s toys, boys, and secrets throughout the years.  They even looked the same to outsiders.  Lynn, too, had blond wavy hair with an olive complexion.  She was tall and slender as well.  However she lacked one thing the Bower girls both possessed, those  reviled dark green eyes.  Instead, Lynn peered out to the world through two light blue ancipitous sad clouds.  Whoever said that a blond with blue eyes is a sex symbol had it all wrong.  Those dark jade eyes always turned the guys toward Felicia growing up.  Felicia was just too busy with school to notice.  So Lynn never told her.  It was their one blemish, which stood between them.  Sure Lynn felt pretty enough and interesting enough, yet it was just that green-eyed monster inside her or in this instance in Felicia.  Now Lynn was thinking over old times and wondering if they would remain the same.  They couldn’t now that Felicia would have a husband.  He would be her best friend.  He would know her better.  Perhaps he already did?  She knew she had to stop thinking this way.  She truly loved Felicia and wanted nothing but the best for her.  Matthew was a great guy, and they were a good fit. Besides, weddings always bring out the strangest thoughts in people. 
    At the end of the bride’s side of the table sat Susan Crosby.  Susan was Felicia’s best friend from college.  She like Lynn wore the jade green bride’s maid’s dress without the white sash.  However, Susan wove a delicate wildflower into her long black french braid.  This gave her whole appearance an almost Asianundertone.  Susan Sullivan was far from Asian though.  She had long straight black hair and big brown puppy dog eyes.  She graduated one semester ahead of Felicia and now had an entry level   job in a web design firm across the country.  She loved her work and was very focussed.  This is why she had to catch ared eye back to San Francisco and be on time for work at 9 AM sharp.  Luckily, she would have plenty of time to sleep on the plane, hail a cab to her apartment, shower, change, fix a light breakfast, and enjoy morning time catching up on texts, snapchat, and anything else that popped up on her iPhone before rushing off to the office.  In any case, Felicia was worth it.
    Directly to the left of Matthew sat his best man and best friend Justin Beetz.  Justin was a free lance sports writer all up and down the eastern seacoast.  He was charming and handsome, yet he had the ego to boot.  Matthew and Justin pledged a fraternity together in their undergraduate years.  Justin never grew up.  He partied heavily and was already into the spirit of things.    Still, Felicia tried to respect Justin as Matthew’s friend.  He looked very handsome in his black tux with a white cummerbund.  
    Little 6 year old Tommy Greggory was next.  This was Matthew’s cousin as a ring barer.  He took his job seriously and was very polite.  In fact, he resembled Matthew when he was a boy.  His sandy brown hair and hazel eyes gave him a misty and fun loving appearance.  Tommy was the kind of boy grandmothers would die to walk up and squeeze his cheeks.  Felicia remarked that it was too bad Tommy had to sit between Justin and Scott.  They were acting younger than Tommy, showing him how to take a drink of soda and belch it right up like that.  Was it really true that boys will be boys?
    Yes, Scott Edwards came next.  He too was in Matthew’s fraternity.  His behavior today reverted to college days, but he was already married for 2 years.  He was of average height, brown hair and brown eyes.  He had even put on the extra 15 pounds most couples carry once they are comfortably married.  Matthew told Felicia how Scott had become a pharmacist at St John’s hospital across town.  Life according to Scott was always a bit of an exaggeration. In reality he was an assistant, but He and his wife were both doing well.  Felicia never knew his wife,Emma, except at the store now and again, but she could tell she was a nice person.  Maybe after they were an old married couple the four would become better friends.  Matthew never kept in touch with his friends as she did. Nonetheless, Scott wore his black tux just fine.

    And finally sat Max Hollins.  He too was another frat buddy of Matthew’s.  However, he dropped out of school, because of insufficient funds.  It was too bad too.  Max was interested in pre-med.  He would have made a terrific doctor one day.  He couldn’t seem to qualify for financial aid, and no job seemed to pay enough to cover tuition.  Instead, Max took a job at a local drug store as a cashier and found an apartment with some friends.  Scott always boasted how he’d have his own pharmaceutical company some day and Max could work for him.  Brother’s stick with brothers and all of that.  Max knew it was a pipe dream.  The shame of it all is that his parents were fairly well off and wouldn’t give him a penny. Their money was spent on the important things like cars and travel for themselves not their own son’s education.  Felicia liked him the most.  She always tried to be extra friendly toward Max in hopes that she could almost make something up to him for missing out in life.  Oh it was purely innocent, but she seemed to make him smile when most of the time he seemed lost.  He was more her counterpart in appearance too.  His hair was blond and curly, his eyes were a light green and his skin tanned and clear.  His broad shoulders and firm physique filled his tux out to perfection.  
  “When are you going to tell Mom and Dad about your plans for Europe?”  Felicia directed toward Hillary.
    “Soon.”
    “If it’s going to be soon, then please make it while I’m away on my honeymoon.  I wouldn’t want to be here when the news hits home.”
    “They might be surprised at first, but.”  She was cut off.
    “They’ll be surprised all right.”  Felicia knew that was an understatement.
    “You know they always come around.  And I was thinking of telling them tonight when we go home.  They’ll be in a good mood and I’m on winter break.  I don’t want this on my hands the whole week.”
    “Don’t say I didn’t warn you.”
    “I’ve learned to resign myself to the fact that Mom and Dad don’t approve of my choices in life anyway.  Going to Europe for the year is what I want and what I need.  It’s my life isn’t it?”  It was a fact that Elizabeth and William Bowers had never seen eye to eye with Hillary.  They mocked her when she chose to wear a matching tux with her boyfriend to her senior prom.  They tried hard never to discuss politics or religion with Hillary.  But this surely would take on some heated argument amongst the three of them.  It was a loving and close relationship underneath.  If not, no one would bat an eyelash at each other.  Hillary was one of those that had to go to the extremes to find her way in life.  In the end she came through it just fine.  Although for some convenient reason Hillary has neither pictures nor recollection of herself in a white tux and top hat to match.
    Felicia would certainly be of no help on her sister’s behalf.  Yes, she had gone to Europe during one semester of her Sophomore year of college, but she was an exchange student.  In fact, that is why Felicia graduated a semester later than most of her peers.  Apparently some of her credits abroad would not transfer toward her requirements for her degree.  That itself was just far enough out of the norm for both Felicia and her parents.   She didn’t drop out to go backpacking of all things.  No, Felicia would be better off not to take part of that discussion.  
    Dinner consisted of prime rib or chicken, a garden salad, mushroom risotto and asparagus.  Everything tasted to perfection.  Matthew and Felicia tasted mostly each other’s lips as the wine glasses tinkered what seemed to be constantly.
    “I can’t wait to get out of here”, Felicia remarked.
    “Not having a good time?”  Matthew sounded shocked with a hint of hurt in his voice.
    “Oh it’s the best day of my life!  It’s just I can’t wait until we’re alone.”  Matthew’s eyes grew wide as his mouth opened to a grin.
    “You’d like to cut to the chase would you?  How about we cut the cake throw the flowers change load the car and we’re out of here in say one more hour?”
    “I hope so.”  Tinker tinker went the glasses again.  The kissing and close dancing were building to an anticipating feeling Felicia didn’t even expect.

    The cake was a 3 tier white with a hint of almond topped with a rich and creamy frosting.  At the very top stood the traditional porcelain bride and groom.  Only this one played music.  Felicia enjoyed collecting music boxes since she was a child.  Her mother ordered it immediately when she realized it played their wedding song.  Elizabeth had strict instructions to wrap it carefully when she and William would dropped the gifts flowers and cake off at their new apartment.  Typically Felicia couldn’t resist smashing a little cake on Matthew’s nose as she fed him.  He on the other hand was too kind.  So the DJ prodded the room to chant that Matthew kiss Felicia thus getting his frosted nose on her.  This was always a crowd pleaser at wedding receptions.  
    “OK all you ladies who are eligible gather ‘round, because it’s time to see who’ll catch the bouquet and be the next victim, I mean bride to be.”  And sure enough all of the single women followed the DJ’s instructions cackling all the way.
    “One . . . two. . . three.”  The flowers went up over Felicia’s head and plummeted right into Lynn’s arms.  Felicia winked as if to say “good job just like we planned it”.  
    “Now come on guys who are single don’t be shy.  It’s your turn!”  This DJ acted like an old pro to say the least.  And out they went onto the floor with their hands at their sides as if they were just drafted off to war.
    “Get up there Tommy”, Martin urged the young ring barer.  “You’re not married are you?”  Tommy shook his head in disgust.
    “Then you might win,” put in Martin.  Tommy’s eyes turned as big as saucers at the thought of winning something.  So he ran to join his opponents. 
    Matthew slid his hand ever so slowly up Felicia’s leg, past the knee and up to the top of her thigh.  Her nylons kept him away from her skin.  Her heart pounded and her throat tightened as Matthew’s hand retrieved the garter with precision.  Everyone cheered as he held it high in the air, waving it like a flag of victory.
    “One. . . two. . . three.”  Matthew tossed it back right into his cousin Tommy’s arms.  Tommy held it pensively while the other men patted him on the back and rubbed his curly head, all the while making comments Tommy could not figure out.
    “Hey starting off young aren’t you!”
    “Now you’ll get a real education kid!”
    “Do you think you can handle her son?”
    “You’re a lucky kid!”
    What were they talking about.  Why is the room spinning so fast?  What is this piece of blue underwear for anyway?  It was all too much for him.  Tommy dropped the garter and ran back to his chair almost in tears.  
    Lynn picked up the garter herself and wrapped it tightly around her bouquet.  She too had to keep from laughing.  It was cute.  Besides, she’d rather have a garter not put on her leg by a 7 year old, than to have one put on by some of these obnoxious perverts.  Especially that Justin Beetz.  Felicia and Matthew tried to fix her up with him once, yet it turned into a disaster.  All Justin did was talk about himself and paw at her all night.  Lynn wasn’t a prude, but she didn’t even know him.  A date to Justin Beetz was to dine a woman have drinks, have sex and get home in time to see the late night scores of the evening football game.  Felicia warned Lynn and that’s why Justin never spoke to Lynn again.  He never got his end of the date.  Thank goodness Felicia hadn’t paired her up with him for the wedding.  That would be . . . 
    “Do you think any man will have the pleasure of using that garter again Lynn Chambers?”  Oh no, was he talking to her?  Was it really him?  Lynn curtly turned to see Justin Beetz staring directly at her with a shot of Crown Royal in hand.
    “Well, answer the question.” he reminded her.
    “Do you really believe a question like that one deserves an answer?”  She could handle him.

    “If there’s a chance of my helping you on with that garter, I know it would be something you’d never forget.”  Alcohol reeked from his breath as he spoke.  
    Lynn took a step back as she replied, “In your state I don’t think you have a prayer with anyone, and I recall informing you of your chances with me on our last encounter when I gave you a black eye.  I don’t doubt that anyone has heard of that particular incident, being the egotistical jerk that you are.  I’m sure it bruised your manliness more than your body.”  This had to get rid of him.
    “Bitch.”  That was all he could counteract with as he stomped off like a spoiled child.
    “What did he want, another date?”  Lynn swung around to face Felicia.
    “Sort of.  I just don’t know how Justin and Matthew could ever be best friends.”
    “You know men.  They are less picky.  As long as they have a buddy to work out with, have a drink with, and stuff like that, then they are friends.  Plus it’s that fraternal bonding thing.  You’d think it was thicker than blood.”
    “I suppose,” Lynn shrugged in defeat.
    “Justin was there for Matthew though when he first came to school.  Matthew was from out of state in Ashton and Justin took him under his wing.  Maybe that meant something to Matthew.”
    “Where is Matthew anyway?”
    “He went to change up.  He has to give his tux to Justin so he can return it tomorrow.  I just wanted to say thanks for everything and I’ll miss you.”
    “No, I don’t think you’ll miss me on your honeymoon Felicia!”  They both grinned.
    “That’s not what I mean.  Don’t think that I am not aware of what you’ve been thinking.  We’ve been together forever.  Things will be different.  I’ll miss the way we were too, but I promise we’ll still get together lots, OK?”
    “OK,” was all Lynn could muster up.  The two girls embraced a sweet hug of fondness.   
    “Shouldn’t you go ahead and get changed too?”  Lynn pulled away first.
    “Yes, I’d better go.  I’ll call you when we get back and tell you all about the trip.”
    “Not too much though, I won’t be able to handle it being but a mere child compared to a worldly married woman!”  Lynn gave Felicia a humorous nudge in the ribs as Felicia started to walk away.  
    Hillary scurried around trying to find her sister in the crowd.  There were pairs of people dancing, groups of children huddled in the corner, and relatives and friends laughing near the bar, but no Felicia! Where did she go?  Maybe she and Matthew couldn’t wait to be alone?  The hustle and bustle of a wedding and reception was all a big distraction.  Besides it put Mom and Dad back a pretty penny, yet they gave in lovingly.  Who needed it?  Hillary truly believed marriage was outdated.  People should just be together or not.  What was the big deal about a piece of paper?  She loved her sister and was ecstatic to be the maid of honor, but it was more because they were sisters and remained close not because of the beauty and sanctity of holy matrimony.  Felicia knew this about her younger sibling.  In fact, they disagreed about most choices they made.  It was different though than their parents.  Hillary and Felicia could tell each other anything without worrying about expectations or approval.  They were close confidants and friends.  The Bowers had an easier time with Felicia since they seemed to share the same outlook on life.  Felicia was a younger version of themselves.  Hillary was not necessarily the black sheep of the family rather she was the free spirit of the family.  
    “Mom, have you seen Felicia?”
    “Yes,” Elizabeth answered as she brushed elbows alongside her daughter, “I just came from the ladies room.  She’s changing to get ready to leave.  She left her handbag at her table.  I was going to get it, and then the DJ had a question about how long he was supposed to stay.  So would you please give Felicia her bag for me?”  She handed Hillary a white satin purse with a pearl clasp. 
    “All right.  And I was wondering if you and Dad would be up late tonight?  I had something I wanted to talk to you both about?”  She thought she’d open the door a little.

    “What about?”
    “School.”
    “Is everything going OK?  Are your grades all right?”  Her mother sounded sincerely concerned.
    “Oh they are fine.  I have all A’s and B’s.  It’s nothing like that.”  This wasn’t working the way she had hoped.
    “Well what then,” Hillary’s mother urged.
    “Just some ideas I’ve had, that’s all.  It can wait till later.”  This was not the appropriate setting to drop a bombshell like the one Hillary had.  Besides she wanted to kill two birds with one stone and tell both of them at the same time.  Why on earth her parents wouldn’t join the 21st century and buy smart phones, Hillary would never understand.  It would make what she had to do so much easier if she could only send them a text.  This was a battle she’d never win, as they just didn’t find the need to “have their head glued to a device”, as they put it.  She’d somehow have to muster up the courage for this face to face conversation.  
    “When you have ideas Hillary a red flag goes up in my head, but I think it’s best to discuss it at home.” 
    “Yeah, I’d better get this bag to Felicia.  She’ll want to re-do her makeup if she’s changing.”  Hillary walked away before her mother could prod any further.  That was just enough to know something was up yet without coming right out and blurting the whole story.  She continued pensively down the long corridor toward the ladies room.  It was damp and cold, as this part of the church was unheated.  The basement walls were cement and the floors were not carpeted.  She came to a set of doors, which carried her chilled body back into the warmth again, and turning right she opened the door to the large spacious woman’s room.  
    Felicia was standing in front of a vanity fixing her attire in the mirror.  She was wearing a white lace knee length A-line dress.  She found it through Anthropologie online.  She took a chance in ordering, and it fit great.  It was sweet and simple, yet tasteful and just dressy enough for the occasion.  She was finishing upwhen she saw Hillary in the mirror.
    “Oh thanks.  I sent Mom after that.”  Felicia took the handbag gratefully and began searching for the makeup inside.
    “She sent me instead.  I guess the DJ thinks he’s done, but she’s going to set him straight.”
    “Oh no is it OK out there?  Should I go talk to him?  We paid for 4 hours.”
    “No don’t worry, Mom will handle it.  Everyone is having a great time.”
    “What do you think about this color blush.?  It’s not too dark is it?”
    I think it is nice.  It makes your high cheekbones really stand out.”
    “I’m starting to feel anxious about our trip.  You know I want things to go perfect.  I hope Matthew will be happy afterwards and all of that.”  Her voice was a little embarrassed.
    “Don’t worry so much, he loves you and that’s that.”  Hillary said convincingly.  She knew her sister had not been with a man before.  She knew it would be OK.  The guy loved her enough to proclaim he wants to spend the rest of his life with her, didn’t he?  Sex isn’t everything, Hillary knew that too.  But somewhere in the back of her mind she wondered.  What if a couple waited and then they get married, go to bed with each other and thendiscover they are lousy at sex?  What then?  Do they be honest with each other and work on it hoping they will get better?  Do they ignore it and just fake it or what?  Hillary had a relationship once that led to a physical commitment for a while, but that was different.  This was supposedly til death do you part.  This was out of her league.  So she thought it best to be firm and short with Felicia.
    “I just want it to be special for both of us.  Anyway, what’s more special than your wedding night right?”  Felicia could see the uncomfortable look on Hillary so she went back to putting on eye shadow now.
    “I told Mom I want to talk to her and Dad later about school, but I didn’t say why.  I think I have her curiosity up.”
    “I’m sure you do.”

    “It should pose for an interesting night all around I guess.  You look great.”
    “Thanks.  There, all set.”  She ran a brush quickly through her hair, tossed it into her clutch and exited the bathroom behind Hillary.
    When Felicia returned into the reception hall she was immediately swept up into social chattering from every direction.  It made her feel like royalty.
     “I love your dress!” 
    “Hi Felicia.”
    “Where did you find that dress?”       
    You look great!”
    “There you are.  I thought you left and I had missed you.” And then Felicia came toward her mother-in-law.
    “Oh hello dear.  Congratulations again.  That’s quite a fine catch you have in my Matthew don’t you think?” Felicia gritted her teeth at the sound of possession.  She wanted to shout out that he was hers now and always will be, but she held back.
    “I think he’s wonderful.”  She simply agreed.
    “That’s good.”  These were the only words Carroll had for Felicia.  There were no compliments on Felicia’s clothes.  There was no hint of acknowledgment of what a fine choice Matthew had made.  And there was no pretense at small talk.  The two Mrs. Greggorys stared at each other as if in a face-off of some sorts. Just as Harry Potter and Voldemort created a fiercely competitive force as their wands touched, neither Carol nor Felicia broke their gaze.    
    “There you are! “ Matthew thankfully interrupted.  “Susan has to leave to get to the airport to catch her flight.  She wants to say good-bye to you though.  Come on.  She’s over by the guest book table.”  He led her away from his mother and over to Susan.  
    “I do have to leave, but I saw you glaring at Mrs. Greggory and thought I’d send Matthew to get you over here.”  Matthew understandably left the two friends alone to say their farewells.
    “You are a true life saver.  Carroll is so hard to take!”  She called her Carroll as both Matthew and Felicia had agreed to call all in-laws by their respective first names.  Nothing could bring Felicia to call that woman “Mom” and Mrs. Greggory seemed too formal.  Also, she just couldn’t betray the real love and affection she had toward her own mother to use it on someone else, even if that person were the nicest person on earth.  Felicia knew that was hardly the case in this instance.  Since it would be Carroll for his mother what more could she say but for Matthew to call her parents Elizabeth and William.
    “I could tell the conversation needed rescuing.  Anyway, I really have to go though.  I’m going to miss you.  Maybe next time you and Matthew could come out to San Francisco and visit me.  That is when you are ready to share him with the rest of the world.  It would b great!”
    “And expensive for two cross country plane tickets.  I don’t know how we’d swing it for a while.  Maybe if we got a decent tax return next year or something.”  It truly seemed like a wonderful idea to Felicia.
    “OK one year from April I’ll expect you.  Who knows maybe by then I’ll have a man to double with you guys.  Well, seriously though, you are a gorgeous bride and I wish you all the happiness in the world!”  They cried and hugged each other at the thought of not seeing one another for a long time.
    “Thanks for everything Susan.  When I get my pictures made up I’ll try and get extra copies to send to you.  I am going to also put them on Instagram and in a drop box folder to share.”
    “Oh that would be good.  I’d like that.”  Matthew again walked over to Felicia’s side and placed an arm around her slender waste.
    “How are you two sad cases doing?”  He asked

    “We’re fine.”  They sounded at the same time.
    “Congratulations again Matthew.”  She gave him a quick peck on the cheek and made her way through the crowd and disappeared out of sight.  
    “Are you ready to leave yet?    I have the suitcases all set in the car and I collected all of the cards and put them in the front seat.”  Matthew remembered that Felicia had wanted to take the cards and enjoy reading them on the long drive to the mountains.
    “Almost.  I want to make sure Mom and Dad have my gown taken care of.  I zipped it all up in a garment bag and hung it in the ladies room.  I don’t want her to forget it when she loads all the gifts and other things we want taken to our apartment.  Plus we need to see reverend Morris about our marriage certificate.  Oh have you taken care of him yet?”
    “Yes, I paid him a while ago after I changed.”  She slid her arm around Matthew’s waste too as they traveled together around the room in search of their minister.
Reverend Morris was sitting at a table alongside his wife.  He was a nice fatherly looking man perhaps in his late fifties.  His hair was an ash brown with gray around the temples.  His eyes were a warm and friendly sort of brown that matched his sincere and inviting smile.  He was the kind of pastor who was truly devoted to God and his congregation, and he never discarded the importance of his deep devotion to his wife.  She was always by his side helping out with his ministry in one way or another.  She wasn’t pushy though.  Mrs. Morris was calm and sweet in her simple like fashion.  The children of their church saw her as a “grandma”.  The women looked toward her for godly counsel and earnest friendship.  And the elderly members of the church viewed her as a fine asset to the Christian community.  Mrs. Morris was a short stout little woman who dressed plainly yet tidy.  Tonight she fancied a navy blue dress with a v-neck and a slightly scooped back.  Her shoes and purse were both dyed the exact same shade as her dress.  It was her hair that gave her a sophisticated and exquisite appearance.  Mrs. Morris was fortunate enough to retain her natural auburn brown hair color all throughout her years.  Secretly she prided herself on this one great feature since most of her peers had at least some gray.  Therefore she chose to keep it long; to the middle of her back.  This evening, however, being a more formal occasion, she wore it up high in a french twist with a navy comb. through it.  Yes, Mr. and Mrs. Walter T Morris made a wonderful example of a successful marriage to Felicia and Matthew.
    “We were just wondering if you were all set with our marriage certificate?”  Matthew inquired politely.
    “Oh sure.  I have it right here. I will stop in to see the town clerk tomorrow.  I think you two are off to a fine start.”  Mr. Morris waved a piece of bonded paper that was sitting on the white linen tablecloth and slipped it in his inner suit coat pocket.
    “”Congratulations again you two.  Now where are you going on your honeymoon?”  Mrs. Morris asked inquisitively.
    “We’re renting a cabin in the mountains.”  Matthew replied.
    “Oh?  A cabin in this weather?”  Mrs. Morris asked.
    “Don’t let him kid you.  It’s not really what you’d call a cabin.  It’s more like a condo!  From what we saw from the pictures when we booked it online, it has a kitchen, living room, bathroom with a Jacuzzi in it, a bedroom and two fireplaces.  We were lucky to get it this time of year with all of the college students on break heading up to ski.”  Felicia sounded excited to describe their get-away.  She hadn’t really traveled anywhere since childhood on family vacations, and her semester in England.  It seemed to bring out the bright glimmer in her playful eyes.  

    “Have you thought any more about the Sunday school position?”  Mrs. Morris approached Felicia two weeks ago about an opening teaching third and fourth graders every Sunday.  This wasn’t the usual time for appointments, but the previous teacher had to resign, because her husband became seriously ill.  Mrs. Morris immediately thought of Felicia.  She thought it would be perfect for her.  She was bright and creative and had the energy one needs with eight and nine year olds.  
    “I have been so busy that I haven’t really decided.  When do you need an answer?”
    “To be honest, I will need one when you return from your trip.  We’ve been putting the kids in with the first and second graders, but they are all really starting to act up.  I think it is a strain on poor Mrs. Bridges after a while.  She does a wonderful job you know, but it is getting the best of her.”
    “At this point it sounds like an exciting proposition.  I’ll give you a definite answer though when we get home.  Is that all right?”
    “That will be terrific!”  Mrs. Morris sounded encouraged.  
    “Well thanks again for everything.”  Matthew extended a hand toward Mr. Morris and then Mrs. Morris.  Felicia then took her turn at good-byes and they strode off together again.
    “How about it Mrs. Greggory?  Are you finally ready to call it a success and let me have my way with you?”
    “I am Mr. Greggory.  It’s odd though having all of your family and friends gathered into one place.  You wind up having hardly any time to really spend with anyone.  It was incredible though.  The whole day has flown by, and I too am anxious to have you all to myself.”
    “No more behaving or watching myself?  Thank goodness.”   
    “I know. I know.  Men have needs and all that right?”
    “Ha ha.  I have only one need.” He gave her a firm quick kiss on the lips.  “Tell you what.  I’ll go get our coats and meet you right back here.”  Matthew darted in and out weaving his way through the full room of guests.  He was a man on a mission and nothing would stand in his way.  Felicia and Matthew have been together for over a year now and it was high time she was his!  His adrenaline was running as he walked.  He knew it was hormonal drive as well as his love for Felicia.  He knew even when he had her he’d have to be gentle and patient with her at first.  That wasn’t the issue.  He respected her.  He just wanted to be with her now and always.
    “Hey kiddo, where’s your husband?”
    “Oh hi Dad.  He’s gone to get our coats.  We’re leaving in a minute.”    
    “Well you guys drive careful.  It’s pitch black and there could be a few snow squalls toward the mountains.”  William Bowers would always be a Dad to Felicia.  He would never stop guiding and advising her, just as he could not help but continue worrying about her.  But now he included Matthew as well.  Felicia liked that he included her new husband.  And Matthew already felt comfortable with him too.  Many times they have sat watching a football game together or cooked side by side over a barbecue.  Of course, men didn’t seem to have the hang-ups women had in relationships.  William didn’t see the marriage as losing Felicia like Elizabeth did.  He saw it as more of a chance to be alone with his own wife again.  Like the good old days.  With Hillary off to college most of the time, and now Felicia tying the knot maybe Elizabeth and he could be honeymooners again.  He could lounge around in his underwear if he chose to.  He would have equal time in the bathroom again.  And more importantly, they could make love anywhere in the house at any time.  Yes, things were looking up again.  Oh he loved his daughters and always would.  It’s just he took the situation and tried to see the positive side of it.
    Mrs. Bowers on the other hand viewed the girls leaving as the typical empty nest syndrome.  She would miss the toys scattered all over the living room, shopping at the malls, and staying up late to talk about their friends or their dates.  They wouldn’t be right there any more.  They never would again.  It felt like a big loss in her life.  William was going to have to conquer this defeat she was feeling inside.  He would have to show her how wonderful things would be for themselves now.  In fact, if anyone could, it would have to be him!

    William Bowers was a distinguished man of 56 years of age.  He was quite tall and quite handsome.  His hair was gray and his eyes were steel green and he bore the Bower olive complexion.  He was an investment broker for a local bank and had still quite a lot of fire in his personality.  He swam, played golf and continued to care about his physical fitness.  It wasn’t for other women though.  He knew they glanced his way once in a while, yet he didn’t care.  It was for himself and of course for Elizabeth.  That was what he cared about, his wife and his family. He took a gulp of his Jack and Coke, as his thoughts were brought back to Felicia.
    “Of course we’ll be careful.  It’s only a 2 hour ride so we’ll be there by ten thirty or eleven wouldn’t you say?”
    “Probably about that long>”
    “When are you going to surprise Mom with the tickets?”
    “Oh I think Hillary goes back to the dorm on Saturday for the winter dance so maybe I’ll take your mother out to dinner and give them to her there.”  William had decided that a trip to Bermuda might spark some new romance after the girls were gone.  He asked Felicia to look into the arrangements with a travel agent for him since they were usually only open during his business hours.  She tried to convince him just to book it all on the computer, but as successful as he was with investments, he never considered doing this for himself. Perhaps he was too spoiled with having a secretary.  No, he wasn’t a chauvinist, by any means, as His secretary was a man named Dennis.     Feliciabooked him 2 round trip tickets to stay for a week   at the Hamilton Princess Hotel in Bermuda.  
    “That sounds perfect.  I can’t wait to hear how surprised she will be!  Here comes Matthew now.  I love you Dad.”  She gave him a big hug and for a minute Felicia didn’t want to let go.  She didn’t want to grow up at all.  Still she did grow up and she did love Matthew now and wanted her new life with him.  Felicia pulled back and began to pull out a tissue from her purse to wipe her eyes.
    “I love you too sweetheart.  You two have a safe and happy trip now OK?  Your Mom and I will call you next week.”
    Matthew helped Felicia on with her long beige wool coat.  He gently pulled her flowing hair out from the collar.  It smelled fresh and perfume like.  After tossing his own jacket on, he grabbed her by the hand and started for the door.  A shower of birdseed fell at them like a rainstorm and they started to run for the gray Audi.  It was all decorated no doubt by Justin and the boys, with streamers and tacky tin cans with a huge sign that read JUST MARRIED.  Matthew opened the passenger door as Felicia picked up the wedding cards and hopped in the seat.  Matthew came around to his side and warmed up the engine.  It was bitter cold and they would need the heat to keep the windows from frosting.  
    Felicia glanced back at the shivering waving as semblance of people.  This was the best day in her entire life.  And this moment felt like another threshold into the future.  Her future with Matthew.  She saw her best friend Lynn.  Would she really remain the same with her?  And Justin seemed to never grow up with yet another drink in his hand.  There was Hillary beside her parents.  Would there be an argument in the Bowers house tonight once Hillary dropped her news?  Felicia wouldn’t be there to play referee.  And what about her mother?  She hoped the news of a trip would lift her spirits about her being gone now.  But this was all part of a different world now.  Felicia was the one changing and embarking upon her new life with Matthew.  It was going to be a full and exciting one.  Felicia turned back around and smiled at Matthew as they pulled out of sight . . .                  
 

on Hazel’s debut release and insights into her writing journey.

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With a career spanning two decades in the nonprofit sector, Hazel S Morgan draws from her experiences to create relatable characters and compelling narratives. Her love for family, dogs, and travel infuses her writing with warmth and authenticity, making her stories resonate with readers from all walks of life. Whether you’re sipping coffee or enjoying a quiet evening, Hazel’s books promise to transport you to new worlds filled with adventure and heart.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What inspired Hazel S Morgan to write?

Hazel S Morgan was inspired to write by her passion for storytelling and her experiences in the nonprofit sector. She believes that sharing stories can create connections and inspire others, which motivates her to pen her thoughts and experiences.

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Hazel S Morgan primarily writes in the genres of contemporary fiction and memoir. Her works often reflect her life experiences, focusing on themes of family, personal growth, and the human experience, making her stories relatable to a wide audience.

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