Chapter 36 [Talon—Several Hours Later]
Anticipation filled the air. Older farmers came in from the town's edges. Interested parties drove in from Granville, Dodge City and even Chicago. Students, whether for an assignment or pure pleasure, prepared for their session in the theater to come. For one evening, the theater's old ambiance returned from its bygone era. Nostalgia enticed even the most cynical teenager with its siren song on that evening.
Much as with that Yuletide night a generation earlier, the town turned out for a poetic celebration…..
Lex stood next to the front counter. He savored a sip of the Javanese bliss from his mug. His eyes took in the scene. Satisfied patrons enjoyed the catered ham, turkey and roast beef open faced sandwiches. Talk circulated about the area. Occasionally someone would point in his direction. He simply nodded and took another sip. Mom, you'd be proud. I almost expect the NCHP rep to come back through the door again. He smiled recalling the energy of that night from so long ago. Instead of the current teens, their parents and older neighbors celebrated Dave's poetic skill and the renewal of their downtown. He noted Martha slicing apple pies and setting pieces out for sale behind the counter.
Off to the side, Jonathan watched as well. While poetry wasn't his forte to say the least, he could deal with it. He did like the fact that his friends and loved ones enjoyed themselves. He took a gulp from the café's American blend. He shook a hand from a neighbor or a friend from out of town. He'd exchange small talk with a fellow Grange member here or there. He brooded over Clark's new state of affairs. Still, as promised, he didn't bring it up on that evening.
Here goes. He'll never lighten up. Lex sucked in a deep breath. He refilled his mug from the warming refill pot off to the side. Then he wove his way through the throng and toward the farmer. "Hi, Mr. Kent. Something isn't it?"
"It is nice, Lex. Your mother would love it. It's really nice what you're doing for everyone." Jonathan took another sip from his own mug. He could almost feel Martha's eyes boring into the back of his head.
"Thanks, Mr. Kent. Mom would love this. Talk about reasons to celebrate. Miranda's with her family. Byron meets other people like himself. We get to open the old theater again. Clark and Lana have their relationship. Great all the way around," Lex noted.
"Especially when someone looks out for others before himself. Hope this is the start of a trend for you." Jonathan finished his mug. "Keep up the good work. All right? Excuse me."
Granted Jonathan's manner put him off slightly. Still he did appreciate the compliments. He shrugged toward Martha. "He tried at least." He offered her a brief smile. Then he saw Reynolds settling in not far from him at an empty table. "Mr. Reynolds, good to see you."
Reynolds sniffed at the greeting. Suspicion narrowed his eyes. "Lex, you seem to be riding a wave of success today. I hope the reading measures up to the hype."
"Oh it will. The panel's more than ready to go. Thanks for letting Lana post flyers in the school and the Torch support," Lex expressed trying to keep putting his best foot forward.
"Miss Sullivan and Miss Lang believe in the cause. I agree with educational and cultural enrichment, Lex. Just don't disappoint me," Reynolds pointed out. "Even Mr. Kent's idea took off. That young man might be realizing his potential."
"Clark can surprise us. That's for sure," Lex agreed. "From his idea and wanting to help Lana, we got this and all of the good things related to it. Quite a coup if you ask me."
"And even if I didn't, I'm sure you'd remind me anyhow," Reynolds groused. "Still, Lex, this is a good turn. Thank you."
"You're welcome. Lana's looking forward to being the MC. Can't wait to see how she does," Lex added.
"The experience will be good for her. I trust that you'll provide support?" Reynolds posed with an edge to his voice.
"Anything she needs. Lana knows that. There won't be issues. I'll let you eat your meal. Do try Mrs. Kent's pie. It's fantastic. Have a great evening." Lex walked away. His mind refused to dwell on those conversations. The event itself had too much warmth and great feelings.
And if anything, Lex could mine the gold out of anything…..