Andi's Unpleasant Afternoon

2013 Contest Entry

Part 1

Twelve year old Andi Carter wiped the sweat away from her forehead. Her lungs gasped deeply for air as she pressed herself closer to the barn wall. Trying to control her breathing she watched as a shadow walked up to the door. Slowly the door began to open causing the summer sun flooded into the barn. She held her breath as a tall figure cautiously walked down the barn hallway. The horses began to pace around in their stalls, a parentally feeling uneasy about the unexpected company. Andi could feel the sweat trickling down her back as she watched the figure disappear into Taffy’s stall.

“Andi,” Came an impatient voice. “I know you’re in here.”

You can’t talk me in to it, big brother, Andi thought to herself. She stood up and glanced towards the door; it was open. If I could just rush outside and shut the door behind me, I would have enough time to get away before... Andi quietly stepped out of her hiding place and glanced at Taffy’s stall. Then without a second thought, she dashed for the door.

“Andi stop!” Chad’s loud voice boomed.

Completely ignoring is warning, she ran out the door then quickly she slammed it behind her and took off running for the house. In spite of her seedy escape, she was unable to take ones step before two strong arms caught around her middle.

“Going somewhere, sis?” Mitch asked playfully.

“Let me go, Mitch! I have to get out of here!” Andi tried to break free from his grip.

“Why? What’s going on?”

Andi couldn’t explain. She pushed his hands back and again started for the house. But Mitch was too quick for her. Placing his foot in front of her’s, he tripped Andi to the ground. She began to cough as dust settled in her mouth.

“Thanks, Mitch,” Chad said flatly. He reached down and lifted Andi from the ground. “Now what have you got to say for yourself, young lady!” He demanded. Andi brushed the dirt from her overalls without looking up. “I asked you?” Chad snapped, putting his firm hands on her shoulders.

“You shouldn’t have interfered,” She told Mitch. “Now look at my clothes. I’m a mess.”

Mitch folded his arms across his chest. “Sorry, sis,” he smiled.

“Look at me,” Chad said firmly shaking her a little.

Andi obeyed slowly.

“Now,” Chad started, his blue eyes looking like chips of ice, “What should I make of all this. Justin left me in charge didn’t he? Answer the question.”

“Yes, sir,” Andi sighed.

“So, when I tell you to do something you do it. I have enough on my hands without having to chase you around, trying to get you to listen. I expect full and quick obedience from you. Ya hear me?”

“Yes, sir,” Andi sighed again.

“Okay then. Go up to your room, change and get ready for your guest, like your

suppose to.”

Andi opened her mouth to say something, but Chad cut her off,

“No back talk,” he order. “Now move.”

Andi gave Mitch a pleading look. He only shrugged. Andi felt sick inside while turning for the house. Punching her hands into her pockets she kicked the dust up into the air.

Get dressed for your guest, Andi complained in thought. If Chad and Justin want to have guests over that’s fine, but when I have to entertain them too, now that’s another story!”

At that moment a verse came to mind, ‘Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.’ Andi bit her lip as she stepped through the back door into the kitchen. Her friend Rosa was cutting out some cookies at the table.

“Hola, Andi!” she welcomed in spanish.

“Hola,” Andi grumbled back.

“Why the long face?” asked Rosa.

“Chad’s being overly bossy today,” Andi griped. She pushed the door open that led to the dinning room.

“Where are you going?” Rosa called out to her.

“Going to change my clothes and pray,” Andi said without looking back. She ran

through the dinning room, into the foyer, then up the large stair case. When she entered

her room she closed the door and began to look through her dresses. On finding a pretty white and pink one, Andi slowly changed from her overalls. She then searched

through her ribbon box and took out two white satin, hair ribbons. Once she had

brushed and re-braided her long hair, Andi fell on her knees next to her bed.

“Jesus,” she prayed, “I’m really not looking forward to this evening. Having to entertain two girls I don’t even know and having to do everything my brothers and sister tell me. Lord if there is some way Mother could come home from San Francisco within the hour I would be much obliged. But if not, then help me to be strong and give my guess an enjoyable evening. Thank you. Amen.” Andi felt a peace come upon her, and for some odd reason she was almost excited to meet these new girls. Almost.

Andi’s heart slumped in her chest as she entered the foyer. Chad, Mitch and Melinda were dressed in their best and were leading their guests through the parlor door. Justin removed his hat and gave Andi a wink. She could tell he was in a good mood. He slipped his arm around her middle. Smiled Justin said, “You look really pretty, Honey.”

“Thanks,” Andi’s meekly replied.

“Come on. We’ll introduce you to the Johnsons,” He chuckled, leading her into the parlor.

Andi sighed slightly as she gazed upon the Johnson family. Mr. and Mrs.

Johnson were both handsomely dressed in expensive city cloths and seemed to be

praising the two young girls who stood at their sides. Both girls had beautiful golden hair that was perfectly curled and set off by large purple bows. Their appealing purple and yellow dresses were identically matched and indicated that they were very costly. Andi would have guessed they were twins, save the fact that one was older than the other.

“And this is our youngest sister, Andrea,” Justin smiled finishing his introduction. “Andi this is Mr. and Mrs. Johnson and their two little girls Polly and Ava.

“Please to know you,” Andi said more out of manners than honesty.

“And you Miss. Andrea,” Mr. Johnson replied.

Ava, who was the youngest of the two girls, smiled shyly and hid behind her mother’s large skirt. Andi was not, too, surprised when Polly, the older one, made a nasty face at her and looked away. I knew it, Andi thought to herself. I’ll bet they’re both spoiled.

“Well why don’t you have a seat,” Melinda garishly smiled.

“Thank you,” Mrs. Johnson said taking a seat on the sofa.

“Andrea, why don’t you take your little friends up to your room and show them your dolls,” Melinda offered. “I think they’d like that.”

What about me? Andi wanted to shout, but instead she nodded, “Sure.”

Polly and Ava followed Andi to her room. When they entered, Andi suddenly felt very board and at a loss for words.

“Well, here we are,” She shrugged.

Ava smiled a little while Polly crossed her arms.

“Where are your dolls?” Polly asked flatly.

“Over there,” Andi pointed to her dresser. “I only have two.” She took down the two dolls. One looked very old and only wore a white baby dress. The other was dressed in a beautiful gown and had lots of pretty curls in her hair.

“I want that one,” Ava said shyly. She pointed a plump finger at the larger one.

“Well, here you go,” Andi smiled.

Ava’s face beamed as she took the doll carefully in her arms. “What a pretty dolly,” she smiled.

“Her name is Milly,” Andi said fixing the doll’s little hat. Then as quick as a wink, Polly snatched the doll from her little sister’s arms, then shouted angrily,

“I want this one!”

“But I had it first!” Ava yelled back.

“Be quiet and have this one.” Polly yanked the baby from Andi’s hands and quickly tossing it to Ava.

“I don’t want this one,” Ava started to cry handing the little doll back to Andi. She reached for the big one, but Polly slapped her hand back.

“Knock it off, Ava!” Polly yelled. Andi just stood there, completely annoyed.

“How about you girls take turns?” she suggested rolling her eyes.

“No…” Ava sobbed trying to grab the doll again. Polly quickly turned away and

stomped over to the bed and plopped down. She began to turn the doll this way and that.

“Make her give it to me,” Ava cried throwing herself onto Andi. Her body shook with sobs. Andi gave the little girl a light hug then walked over to the bed.

“Polly, your sister had that doll first and I think you should give it back,” Andi tried to keep her voice calm.

“None of your business!” Polly shouted turning away. “I’m older and can do what I please.”

“How old are you?” Andi was trying to make nice conversation.

“None of your business.”

Andi felt hot.

“She’s nine,” Ava frowned taking Andi’s hand. Tears still ran down her cheeks. Andi smiled down at the little girl.

“Well, how old are you, sweetie?”

“Four,” Ava said holding up four plump fingers.

“Why you’re getting to be a big girl,” Andi grinned. Just then a terrible tearing sound brought Andi’s attention to Polly.

“What are you doing?” Andi panicked when she saw the doll’s dress being yanked off.

“I want to give her a bath.” Polly snorted turning up her nose. She pulled at the dress again.

“Stop!” Andi jerked the doll away from Polly’s grip. “You’ll ruin this dress.”

“Give her back!” Polly nearly screamed. She jumped up and stomped her foot.

“No,” Andi replied kindly, but firm. “I’m going to let Ava play with her. She knows how to treat her well.” Andi placed the doll back into Ava’s arms.

Ava smiled and whispered, “Thank you, Andrea.”

Andi gave Ava a light pat on her back.

“You’re the meanest girl I have ever met!” Polly screamed as tears started to run

down her face. “I’m going to tell on both of you!” She gave Andi a strong push, almost knocking her to the floor. Polly then pulled open the door and ran out. Andi looked shocked.

Tears started to run down Ava cheeks again and she clung to Andi’s skirt. “Don’t let her!” she cried.

“Hush,” Andi said taking the little girl’s hand. “I’ll go explain.” They walked hand and hand down to the parlor. Andi’s heart thumped hard in her chest as she gazed upon Polly crying on her mother’s shoulder. Every face looked up at them and seemed to look very upset. Andi met eyes with Chad. He was fuming.

“Is it true?” He asked coldly.

“Is what true?” she whispered.

“Did you slap this little girl and take the doll from her?” His eyes grew narrow.

Andi couldn’t believe this. “Of course not,” she gulped.

“She’s lying mama!” Polly sobbed. She held her cheek. Andi was about to protest

when the dinner bell rang. 

 

Part 2

 

“We’ll talk about this later,” Justin said softly. “Shall we go into dinner?” The adults all stood and walked to the dinning room. Justin took Andi’s hand and gave it a loving squeeze. Andi felt sick. She looked up at Justin, looking very scared. “I didn’t do it.” She mouthed.

He nodded, “I didn’t think so.”

Andi sighed in relief.

Dinner was long for Andi. She ate her food in silence and hardly heard any of the table conversation. Her dress was hot and she felt itchy. On occasion she would look up at Polly, who always gave her a cruel look.

When they all had finished Justin smiled, “Andi how about you girls go play out side.”

She nodded and started to stand.

Ava smiled jumping up. She looked ready to play.

“Good idea,” Mr. Johnson smiled.

“I don’t want to play with her!” Polly yelled angrily. Everyone but the Johnsons looked surprised at her lack of manners. Andi looked very embarrassed.

“No, dear.” Mr. Johnson smiled. “I think Mr. Carter has a good point. You all should get some fresh air. Now move along.”

Ava snatched up Andi’s hand. They both walked to the dinning room door, but Polly remained seated.

“Polly, sweetheart,” Mrs. Johnson smiled soothingly. “You should go have some fun for yourself. I don’t think you would like to just sit here and listen to us talk.”

“Your mother’s right, So move along.” Mr. Johnson looked slightly annoyed.

Polly rolled her eyes and stood to her feet. The three girls then stepped out of the

large door and out into the cool evening. The sun was starting to set, making Andi feel a little better. She petted the horse’s nose that was hitched up to the Johnson’s buggy.

“What a pretty horse,” She complimented. “Does he have a name?”

“His name is just Horse,” Polly answered flatly. “Careful he bites.”

“Oh, I don’t think he’ll hurt me,” Andi smiled stroking the horses nose.

“Was your Papa mad?” Polly asked with a smirk.

“Justin is my brother not my father and he is always very fare,” Andi smiled slightly. “I told him the truth and he believes me. He knows you lied and not I.”

“I didn’t lie!” Polly stomped her foot.

“You did so,” Andi said feeling her temper rising. “I never slapped you and you know it.”

“My mama thinks you did. She’ll believe me!”

“I don’t care if she believes you. Your mother can’t do anything to me.”

“Why are you so mean?” Polly yelled. “I’m going home.” Before Andi could think, Polly unhitched the horse from the picketing post and climbed in the buggy. She took up the reigns gave them a hard, sound breaking, slap just as Andi reached out and

grabbed the horses bridle.

“What in the world do you think your doing?” Andi asked shocked.

“Get out of my way Andrea! I’m going home, away form you!” Polly took up the buggy whip then quickly brought it down on Andi’s hand.

“Stop it!” Andi cried pulling her hand away.

Polly hit the horse with heavy force that made him reared up then bolted. Andi fell backwards into the dust with a, thud. Dust covered her white and pink dress. Ava began to scream, arousing the adults out of the house. Andi stood up and started brushing the dust from her dress.

“Polly!” Mrs. Johnson cried. Mitch quickly jumped up on to Justin’s already saddled horse and took off after the buggy.

“What happened?” Chad demanded looking over to Andi.

“She got mad and said she was going home. Good riddance I say.” Andi brushed

more dust form her dress.

“Andi,” Chad snapped. “Watch your tongue.”

Andi made no reply. They all watched for a few minutes then were relived when they saw Mitch driving the buggy back up the rode. Andi’s face turned red when Mitch brought the buggy to a stop. Polly had her arms around his neck and was sobbing loudly. Mr. Johnson helped her down and hugged her close.

“Shhhh,” He said soothingly. “You’re safe now. Now tell me what happened.”

“Andrea said she wanted to go for a ride,” Polly said through her sobs. “But as we were getting in she spanked the horse’s rear making him run away!” She buried her

head in his shoulder.

“Oh, my poor baby,” he cooed. He gave Andi a sharp look.

“That’s ridiculous,” Justin exclaimed.

Andi shrank back then squeaked, “I did no such thing.”

“Go to your room, Andi,” Chad order.

 Andi dashed around the picketing post and ran into the house. Taking the stairs two at a time she burst into her room and threw herself on her bed. Hot tears ran down her cheeks while she prayed, “Dear God help me! I didn’t do anything mean to that girl! Honest! You saw it all! Why is this happening?” She buried her head into her pillow, and continued to cried out her heart. Just as she was wiping the last tears away from her eyes, she heard footsteps walk into her room.

“Andi,” came Chad’s stern voice. “I want to talk to you.”

Andi did not feel like talking, but nodded and sat up. Chad took a seat in front of her and looked very upset.

“I’m not really sure what has gotten into you lately,” he sighed. “You’ve been nothing but trouble to that girl ever since she got here. I want to know why.”

“I didn’t do anything to Polly.” Andi cried. “She has been lying to you guys. I never slapped her, and I didn’t make the horse run away ether. Why would I stoop to anything like that?” She covered her face with her hands and sobbed.

“Andi,” he said making his voice a little softer. “I know you didn’t want the Johnsons to come over in the first place, but to act this way is taking it too far.”

“You don’t believe me. You haven’t believed anything thing I have said since that accident with Virginia Foster,” Andi sobbed.

“Well, it sure has given me good reason to think this way. Andi why would Polly lie?”

“Because she’s a pest and spoiled!”

“Now that’s enough!” Chad warned. “I’m very upset with you Andi Carter. We’re going to have to do something about this. I’m going to have you stay up here till our guest are about to leave, then I want you to apologize to Polly and her family.”

“But I didn’t do anything, Chad!” Andi protested.

“I don’t want to hear any more,” He said. “I must punish you for--”

“Hold up, Chad,” Justin cut in. Andi and Chad both looked up to see Justin, Polly and Mr. Johnson standing in the doorway.

“What’s going on?” Chad asked.

“Polly has something she’d like to say to Andi,” Justin said putting his arm around Polly’s shoulder.

“Make it fast dear,” Mr. Johnson urged.

Polly looked a little annoyed. “I’m sorry Andi for lying about you making the horse run away.”

Both Andi and Chad looked surprised.

“And…” Mr. Johnson persuade.

Polly crossed her arms and gave him a, “must I” look. He nodded.

“And I’m sorry for lying about you slapping me,” Polly didn’t sound that sorry, but enough to make Andi feel better.

She nodded, “I forgive you.” She then looked away trying not to smile.

“That’s quite enough,” Mr. Johnson said turning around and leaving the room. Polly followed him out.

“Feel better, Honey?” Justin smiled. He sat on the bed next to her and wrapped his arms around her. She returned the hug and rested her head on his chest.

“Thank you, Justin. How did you do that?”

He smiled, held her for a moment then stood up, “That’s what us lawyers are good at. Getting the truth. I need to go see our guests out.” As he was about to walk out the door he stopped. Giving Chad a quick look he said, “Next time, don’t shoot first and ask questions later.”

Chad sighed and nodded. Justin closed the door behind him.

“Andi,” Chad said in a soft voice. “I’m really sorry. I was just riled up about this

morning. Ah, I feel so bad.” He put his head in his hands. Andi could hardly believe this was Chad talking. He was not one for apologizing. Tears misted in her eyes as she

stood up and moved to his side.

“I’m sorry too, Chad,” She whispered. “I should have obeyed you right away when you asked me to change into my clean clothes. I gave you good reason to think I was being mean to Polly.”

Chad looked up. Andi threw her arms around his neck then cried softly. He lifted her onto his lap and held her close. “Oh Andi,” He sighed. “I’m sorry I was overly firm with you. I promise I’ll try better to keep my temper down. Now, look I’ve made you cry.” He took out his handkerchief and wiped her eyes. “I’m sorry. I love you.”

“I love you,” And smiled. She rested her head on his chest. Chad then kissed the top of her head. Something he hardly ever did! Andi looked up at him. He smiled warmly.

“I really do love you,” She smiled, hugging him again. She looked up to heaven with winked. Thank you God for answering my prays and for giving me wonderful brothers.

Peace filled Andi’s heart once more. She and Chad sat for a short time. 

 

The End