Chapter 11: A Whole New World

Early the next evening, Stephanie and Jared called together their three oldest children for a conference.

“It seems my Uncle Benjamin had more on his mind besides the pickup truck.

“For each of you three, I have a check for $12,000 for your higher education. And I have another six checks each, postdated for the next two years.”

There were happy smiling faces all around.

“Dad, this is great news. I have already decided to withdraw from the repressive LDS college. And, also, I want to help Clara and Ada get their own degrees. We can share an apartment and I can coach them when they ask me to.”

Stephanie looked anxious, but hopeful.

“Do you both want to go to college with Roger? I thought you said he was a big dork?”

Ada responded, “He is a big dork, but useful, and smart. And, he took such good care of me in Reno. So, we’ll manage.”

Clara: “If Ada is with him, he’ll be fine. I’m in.”

“You know Stephanie and I can’t afford to sponsor all six of you, so this is a huge break for our family. Roger has shown good judgment, so if he can get all of you into a proper school, we’re all for it.”

This began a frenzy of preparation. Roger picked out a state college on the opposite side of Idaho. He determined that all three of them qualified for admission, and that his prior college credits would transfer.

In about twelve weeks their three admission letters arrived.

When the time came, there were many tears. Dinah only cheered up when she was reminded that now she had her own single bedroom and could have sleepovers with her friends.

When the three siblings arrived in their new town, they realized their timing was perfect. By June many students had vacated, so many choices were available.

They quickly found a suitable two-bedroom space in a duplex. The landlords were an elderly couple occupying the other half of the building. Even better, they offered a $300 monthly rent discount if Ada or Clara would come over twice a week and help with their housework and laundry.

As the bedrooms were roughly equal, they furnished each one with a queen mattress and linens, and a dresser.

Clara spoke up: “OK, I want the front bedroom, and you guys are in the back.”

Ada: “You are OK with this?”

“Ever since Dinah saw you two kissing, I knew this was going to happen. You love him. He loves you. But I’m not ready to be an aunt, so don’t forget your birth control. Now go make love, and I’ll see you at dinner. Shoo!”

In the back bedroom, he rummaged around looking for his condoms. Ada was undressing, watching him. “Aha!” He showed her the box.

“No, dork, I’m just about to have my period, we’re safe. And if you aren’t naked in one minute, I’m going to PMS all over you. Get moving, brother!”