Unaware that a fly problem is manifesting at the ranch, Chuck and Jesse are taking a leisurely stroll through the packed Artisan Market building. When Chuck spots Lilli preparing to mount the elevated kitchen set to do her cooking show, he gives Jesse a nudge. They exchange knowing nods as Jesse heads over to say hello. After last night's rather unexpected tete-a-tete in the caboose it seems the least he should do. He'd like to see her again.
Chuck stands alone in the crowd slowly turning to see what he might see. That's when he sees Carla behind the counter of her booth that features the "Olive-U" brand of olive-oil based cosmetics. After air-kisses she invites him to come along with her to the nearby town square where she takes her cigarette breaks. He gladly joins his old high school friend who has maintained her sparkling personality, not to mention her bodacious figure, even if he is susceptible to the urges that will ensue. After all, hasn't he re-invented himself? He's trust worthy. Right?
Within minutes of hilarious conversation they discover that they have something surprising in common: each has become celibate by preference. Carla made the decision three years ago when she arrived back in Oroville. Chuck's decision was more on the order of thirty-six hours ago when his plane touched down and his resolve was immediately tested by Sarah Kay's tempting presence. Carla is surprisingly open about her history of sex addiction, "I was on an endless quest for fulfillment that took me from lover to lover, night after night. Let me tell you, there is no bleaker moment in life than when you cross the boundary between those who have not slept all night and those who are just going to work." Encouraged by her eye-opening revelation, Chuck describes his own sexual addiction that manifested in Atlanta where he became a serial dater via the Internet, averaging 38 different dates each year. They agree that their decision has brought them unexpected joy and how disappointed in themselves they would be if they didn't try something they've always admired in others: the being in control of your life, up to and including a celibate life-style.
Jesse has a front row seat at Lilli's televised cooking show. He loves what he sees: she's got an engaging personality and has obviously found a new joy and new freedom back in their hometown. Employed, gorgeous, happy and single, now that's an attractive package. It's mid-afternoon when Jesse's cell phone rings. It's Sarah Kay with a message for Chuck from his mother, "Get home as soon as possible. There's an infestation of olive flies and she needs his plane to spray the groves immediately, if not sooner."
Once back at the ranch, Squint, Cesar, Jessee and Sarah are assisting Chuck with the operation. Tanks for the fumigant have been strapped to the rear section of the aircraft and a rusty old tanker truck is transferring the spray to the tanks on the plane. Sarah Kay asks if she can ride along with Chuck. Jesse gives his permission but once out on the lake they are waved off. It's rapidly becoming too dark. It's decided that Chuck will be taking off at first light. In a private moment alone with Sarah Kay, Chuck suggests that she sneak down to the caboose as soon as her father is asleep - just so they can get a head start in the morning, of course.
We must assume, mustn't we, that Sarah Kay is bursting still with a desire for pleasure and that this invitation only fans the flames. "What evil lurks? The shadow knows."
Copyright 2010 G. Leo Maselli
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