Laveda D. Rockford

As I drive home during these dog days of summer, where rain has been sparse, I watch the dust rise from the road and gather in the tail end of my vehicle like rain. Southern Missouri is still beautiful even during sparse rain. I am welcomed home by a row of showy flowers on these Rose-of-Sharon shrubs. Some flowers are still blooming like the roses, and look at this beautiful Hibiscus. It bloomed out after the last rain. Isn’t it beautiful?   Nothing would make this summer day more beautiful except for a couple of butterflies landing on the Sedums with their prolific heads of flowers giving the much-needed nourishment for this feathery light, floating, flying, bright colored, winged species.    I take a deep breath, exhale slowly, and smile. There’s nothing like a flower garden to bring me out of the melancholy that a termultous time can give one.   Peace, Laveda D. Rockford © 2020 Laveda D. Rockford

In the previous excerpt Wade ran into the elevator before the dogs arrived and after a series of maneuvers he managed to push the dogs out and proceeded on his way to meet the team.  Fast forward to the moment when the team arrives on the floor where Wade's son is being held.   THE CASE OF THE BLACK PEARL RING Screenplay Excerpt *** TWO-SHOT JIM AND JOY Jim opened the door on the opposite end of the corridor. He and Joy emerged, guns ready, walking slowly past each door, leaning in close to hear any noise. *** FS/ CAMERA BACKING OUT Cindy and her team arrived in front of Samata’s door first. George leaned up against the door and listened for any noise. GEORGE: “I hear a television, but no other noise.” George said quietly. Jim and Joy arrived and watched the corridor toward the north side staircase while Sam and Bart watched in the opposite direction. MS WADE Wade reached into his pack and pulled out his levers and proceeded to work the lock on the door. Holdi