The Children of ROLLING HILLS FARM

Ruth led Jack into the barn and let the small walk-in door quietly close behind them. She then ushered him to the rear of the barn where they could see over the half-door that kept the livestock out of the main barn. Jack suddenly surprised her, gently grabbing her shoulders and turning her to face him. I don’t exactly know how to begin,” he said, clearing his throat. “I’ve thought and I’ve thought about how I was gonna tell you, and I still don’t know.” Ruth waited, wondering what could be so hard to say. “In the first place I really don’t have any right getting you involved. I already told you that I was drafted and that I’ll be away for who knows how long. The other thing, you’re only fourteen and I’m almost eighteen…”  “I’m almost fifteen.”  He did not seemingly acknowledge her protest. “Damn it, Ruth, I think I’m falling in love with you. I’ve watched you grow up right in front of my eyes.” He paused for a moment. “You’ve turned into the prettiest woman I’ve ever seen.” He stopped again and stared deeply into her eyes. “You’re as much a woman as any of the girls in my class, and a lot more than most. And you know, I just couldn’t leave for the service, without knowing how you feel about me.” He paused. “I’ve seen you giving me the eye.” He stopped and waited. “You’ve got me there. I’ve thought about you liking me for as long as I can remember, and I’ll really miss seeing you too.” She began to cry, falling into his arms. “Ruth, I know that someone so popular and mature as you must have had lots of opportunities, and you’ve likely been with a guy or two. I know it’s asking a lot, especially from someone as young as you, but, but would you think about waiting for me? I’ll be back soon after the war’s over and by then you’ll be out of school, and at least old enough to get married.” He paused for a second. “I don’t think I could stand seeing you married to some other guy,” He suddenly stopped, and did not say anything more for a second. “Unless you’re already involved with someone?” “No. I’m not. But what about you?  I’ve seen your dad’s pickup parked behind the First Baptist Church, plenty of nights. Are you still sleeping with Sally Jo Spencer?” “No, I haven’t been with her, or anyone else for quite awhile.” He paused. “Actually Ruth, since I realized I was in love with you, I can’t seem to get you out of my mind.” She too thought for a moment. “Then, I’ll wait forever,” she whispered. Jack leaned forward and gently kissed her lips. Ruth had kissed a lot of boys over the past couple years and thought she knew what to expect. But when Jack took her into his arms and kissed her again, surprisingly, he forced her lips slightly open with his. It was like nothing she had ever expected, reaching into her very soul, causing her legs to go weak. Feeling that she might pass out, she held on tightly to his neck. Suddenly, her eyes flew open, fearfully searching, listening. She backed away. “Let’s go up the ladder to the front hayloft. It’s not that hot up there today, and there’s no new hay over on that side.” She continued to nervously chatter away. “Actually, I can see the lane better from up there, you know?” She again looked at Jack for his understanding, and then continued. “I’m worried that Joe might come home. He and Slow Dave sometime have a disagreement, and he comes home unexpectedly,” she said, with a certain fear in her voice. Jack followed her up the ladder. Ruth did not even worry whether or not he watched her bottom as she climbed the ladder. She was in love. “Who is, Slow Dave?” he said.