The Bluestone Review 2025

The Bluestone Review

“Sonny Holcombe, please,” I said to the phone. “I’m Sonny,” said his kindly, cheerful voice. “Hi, I am Mr. Burton’s secretary.” “Is there a big problem with the divorce?” “No, that is not why I’m calling. It’s not your divorce,” as I blushed to a bright red. “What’s the problem then?” he asked doubtfully. “I just wanted to know if you know how to get a snake from out under a house?” “A snake? What kind of snake?” he asked softly. “My son told me it is a copperhead.” “I don’t know what to tell you without a look around the place. It is your own house.” “How old are your kids, two boys, right?” he asked. “Eddy, thirteen and Aaron, eleven.” “Tell them to stay away from the snake. The bite of a copperhead might not kill you, but it will make you pretty sick. Do you want me to come to your house and check it out? I don’t know what I can do, but I will give it a try,” he said with concern. “That would be great, Sonny. The boys would feel better if they had someone other than me telling them not to worry about the snake. I should get off work in about an hour and I’ll meet you there, okay?” I gave him my address. He found my house without a problem and he visited me several times thereafter until he became a permanent member of my happy household when we were married. He remained a permanent member for twenty-five years until death do us part. With his death, I lost a part of my life.

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