Free Book Preview – Encountering Darkness: Pete’s Life Changer – Chapter Two
Throughout the week that followed, Pete enjoyed his time very much. People continued to walk the streets, laughing and having fun. Pete was glad for the difference, but was aware it would again change like it always does. Soon people would go back to their old ways. He hated that time, and he hated people for changing so much. Two-faced was what he would call them; although not to their face.
The day before the change Pete walked around and chatted with people at a local bar.
“So how’s everything going mayor?” asked Tom Tetanuga.
“Oh, fine, I’ve got some planning to do for a new school.”
“Well, what about the mall and casino?” suggested Tom, “You know we need ‘em and it would be good for our town.”
Tom was one of Pete’s close friends. He and Pete would often be found at the golf course, along with their other friend, Zach. Tom was Pete’s right-hand man for his job. Although they remained friends, Tom worked for Pete.
“Yeah, I know Tom, those will all come in due time, but education should come first.”
“Come on, you have already built a new elementary school.”
“I have already stated what I am planning to do.”
Tom shook his head and took another drink from his pint.
Even though the town, Winfield, was small, it got recognition from around the country as one of the best. Last year, Winfield was voted “Best Place to Live” by CFNA for the third year in a row, and Mayor Pethaford was called Mayor of the Year in his larger region for three straight years. He won the award by not always following what the people wanted, but instead went for important things like schools, police stations, and hospitals, along with the payroll increases.
Tom became serious and, closing his eyes, thought hard for the right thing to say. Then he opened them and spoke in a caring tone, but this speech seemed like it was made many times.
“Pete…we have been friends for a while, and you know…”
“It’s not that speech again is it?” stated Pete in a somewhat harsh tone. “Look, I think you guys are blind and need to look at yourself. Stop looking for things that don’t matter, especially when they don’t need fixing.”
Tom just sighed, got up, and left the bar.
Pete slammed his hand on the table and wondered when everyone would stop this nonsense. No one communicated anymore with each other and many only had a gaze that almost made him feel sorry for them. Pete understood that the outburst came from the change that people go through at the end of the week. How predictable and self-righteous! He was one of the few people who took this night for what it could be.
