Murder Mystery

"In Heaven you are always with the ones you love..." MM

Amy and I were going to be seniors, Mitch a sophomore. The summer was coming to an end. During this time, there was a lot going on in the world, one of which was a military "police action" in a small country called Vietnam. We didn't pay much attention to national news. We were too much into our own little world around us. As far as we were concerned, the Universe revolved around the three of us. It wasn't until a short time later that Vietnam would become a profound part of our lives.

It was August and I had to cut back working at the Dailey's Dairy to practice football. Practices were held twice a day, and it was hot. I was sure out of shape, but I was not the only one. Thirty-five kids showed up the first day for practice to play on the varsity and reserve teams. After the first week, that number dwindled to twenty-five. The practices were very physical and challenging, but I hung in there.

One hot, humid, rainy day I was at practice. During our break, my mom surprisingly showed up. I realized that there must be something wrong. I ran off the field to meet her.

"Mom, what is it? Why are you here?"

"It's your grandfather. Grandpa Ira. He has died."

I didn't know what to say. I was shocked and overcome with emotions. My mom took me in her arms. I was probably closer to Grandpa Ira than my dad. Maybe it was because I was the first born. Whatever the reason, my grandpa and I spent a lot of time together. I spent many nights at his house. Grandpa Ira lived in Indianapolis and I loved going there. We would go to Garfield Park or ride the city bus to town. We would either go to the Circle Theater for a movie or take the stairs all the way to the top of the Indianapolis Monument Circle. I loved my grandpa. I can remember crying while my mom consoled me. I hoped that none of the other players had seen me crying like a baby in my mom's arms. But then again, I didn't care.