The Butterfly Conspiracy (34 page)

“How’s your shoulder?”

“It’s not bad, I’m lucky the bullet just grazed me.”

Stephen walked over to Jeanette and took back the gun.
 
 

“I’ll stay here and cover Bobby, Jeanette go call the police and an ambulance.”

Phillip said, “I’ll stay here with you, Stephen.”
 
 

Chapter 44

It was three days later and Stella Moorehouse was sitting in the trophy room scrutinizing the group.
 
Scott and was sitting in a leather chair.
 
King was lying on a rug at his feet.
 
Stephen and Jeanette were sitting in the love seat, holding hands.
 
Phillip was in his overstuffed chair next to the roaring fire. Joe walked in with his arm in a sling, eating a sandwich Cora had just slipped him.

Stella addressed the crowd, “First off, I want to ask Joe how he is doing?”

“I’m just fine, Mrs. Moorehouse.
 
The doctor said I’ll only have to wear this sling for a few more weeks.”

“That’s wonderful.”
 
She looked relieved.
 
“Well, I think you have all changed my mind after all.
 
Once Phillip decided to tell me what was really going on, I came out as soon as possible with the intention of bringing Stephen back to
New York
immediately.”

“And what did I tell you, Stella?” Phillip asked with a smile.

“You said that everything was fine and that Stephen had made some wonderful friends.
 
You told me the worst was over and he should be allowed to stay for the rest of the summer, as planned.”

“And?” Stephen asked.

“After all the terrible things that had happened, I couldn’t image allowing you to stay.
 
But I must say, after spending the day with all of you, I think the best thing would be for Stephen to remain here and have the summer we all envisioned he would have.”

A cheer went up from the crowd.
 

“But..,” Stella interjected.
 
“I have another plan.”

A hush immediately filled the room.
 

“As you know, my husband Martin can not be with us today because he, very wisely, decided to seek treatment for a problem he has. I would very much like him to have the opportunity to meet all of you.
 
It would be so wonderful if you could share your stories with Martin of how you all helped Stephen in his times of need.
 
So, with that in mind, when Stephen returns to go to art school, I would love to have you all come for a visit and stay with us in
New York City
.
 
I’ll make all the arrangements and will pay for everyone’s trip.”

The room went wild.
 

“Joe, did you ever think wearing that bear skin rug would wind up getting you a free trip to
New York City
?” Scott asked.

“Since I’ve never even been across the bridge to
Lower Michigan
, I’d have to say that would be a no!” Joe laughed.

“And, Jeanette,” Stella said.

Jeanette turned from Scott and Joe.

“Yes?”

“I think you may have to come a few days early, since after talking to Stephen, it looks like the Moorehouse family will be seeing quite a bit more of you in the future.”

Jeanette turned a pretty shade of pink, poked Stephen in the arm and said, “Oh, Stephen!”