Passing Through by Ron Smith

Author:Ron Smith
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Publish on Demand Global LLC

Chapter Thirty-four

Palmer thought he had an answer. He'd wracked his brain for weeks, pored over volumes of medical books and journals available in nearby doctors’ offices and medical schools, trying to determine what kind of malady an apparently healthy little girl could have.

She showed no symptoms. She was robust, happy, intelligent, and one of the sweetest kids he'd ever known.

He had ruled out any kind of pernicious anemia early on. She ate too well, had too much energy, and could almost keep up with her brothers. A tumor was unlikely. Any growth that would have required him to be present on such short notice—well, no notice actually—would have expressed itself by now.

And speaking of notice, he was still a bit miffed at God, or whoever is in charge of moving souls from here to there, for leaving him stranded with no clue as to why he was here, how long before he could leave, and where his final destination would be.

He figured, God being a forgiving sort—at least he hoped that was the case—that he'd end up in heaven, or whatever it's really called. And he supposed Mattie would be there waiting with Jim. If they hadn't gotten in, however, he figured there would be no hope for him.

He felt a bit nervous, wondering about the last five years of his life—spent mostly in a black funk, missing his wife, missing his work, and hurting deeply by accusations that called into question not only his professional ethics but also his very humanity. He probably could have helped some people in those last years, but he withdrew—too angry, too hurt, and just too damned tired to do more than eat when he had to, sleep when he could, and wait until he could move on. Well, he'd waited long enough, and here he was, still hanging around.

Palmer had to admit that he would be a bit reluctant to leave. He'd grown fond of this family, even the ones who didn't know he was around. Beth Ann was a joy, full of enthusiasm and wonder—a sponge that soaked up everything she could absorb. And her music. That could be as close to heaven as he'd ever get. And if so, that might just be close enough.

The boys were typical boys but with special gifts. Benjamin reminded him of his son, Jim—strapping lad, strong, and gifted with athletic grace that defied effort. He didn't so much run as glide across a field or court. His feet never seemed to touch the ground. And he was smart.

Reid Junior was jealous of his younger brother, but he also had a fierce determination to succeed. His future was not so certain. He had all manner of ability and was intelligent but not so much that lessons came easy. He had to study and resented it. He was a good athlete, but not a gifted one. He'd have to work harder to achieve what his brother and sister would do easily. And he had a bit of a chip on his shoulder that got him into trouble.

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