“Many of the wealthy are very generous with their money. They financed a large portion of our new high school and are responsible for many of the upgrades at the Charleston hospital. Then there are the many scholarships and charitable organizations they lead, to name a few things.”
“True. Money doesn’t equate to character.”
“No, it does not. There are good and bad in all walks of life.”
“I don’t approve of arranged marriages or of making outrageous conditions on inheritances, though. If someone has a record of poor behavior, including failing school, drug use, or abuse, I think it’s reasonable to make them meet certain conditions before they can access their money. Even attending college seems sensible. Hiding your sexuality and working a job you hate are both fundamentally wrong.”
“I agree, Summer. But being forced into a specific career path is not just a problem with old southern money. There are even teen movies about that particular issue.”
“That’s true. I just don’t agree with it. Did your parents ever try to push you into a specific career?”
“No. I knew early on I wanted to study medicine, and they were happy with that.”
“Well, that’s good. What about your grandparents?”
“I believe they were more in line with the Seagraves, but perhaps not quite so harsh.”
“Maybe every generation is getting a little more reasonable?”
“Perhaps. I have never consideredthat.”
We finish the harvest and head back inside, and I show Alex how to prepare the flower heads for infusion. “So how are you really doing, Alex?”
“A little better than I was during our last talk, Summer.”
“Good to hear. We’re happy to have you back,” I smile. “Have you made any decisions?”
“Yes. My father will be home at the end of the month. I am going to talk to him then. I believe a face-to-face conversation is in order.”
Thank goodness he’s going to do something! “That’s a good plan, Alex. After life settles down a bit, I’d like your help with investing some of my money. No rush.”
“Of course. I have a gentleman I use for everything. I can set up an appointment for you if you wish.”
“Thank you. Like I said, no rush. It’s just something I’ve been thinking about lately.” We continue our preparations as I explain the properties of the infusions to Alex.
By 10am there is still no sign of E, so I send him a text. I was expecting him an hour ago. “Alex, have you talked to E this morning?”
“No, I have not. Is he not responding?”
“No, I’ll try Seb.” Dialing Hurry, I lean on the counter.
“Sunshine,” Seb mumbles.
“Morning sleepyhead. I take it you haven’t talked to E today since you’re still in bed?”
“Nope. He’s supposed to be at your house.”
“Yeah. He hasn’t shown up yet and isn’t answering my texts. Maybe the grandparents did something?”
“Maybe. I’d go check, but you know… Have Alex call the house.”
“Good idea. Thanks Hurry.” I hang up and ask Alex to call them. They still have a house phone, so he calls that number and gets E on the phone. They talk briefly before he hangs up.
“He is on his way now and will explain when he getshere.”
“Okay, thanks.” I quickly text Seb, and then we bundle the flowers that need to dry. The far wall behind the dining table has been full of drying plants since early summer. I really need a better solution next year. We swap fresh for dried, then Alex helps me process the dried herbs into labeled jars for storage.
E shows up 35 minutes later with an apology on his lips. “It’s fine. I was just worried about you.” I smile. “What happened?”
