The Cinder Bullies (29)

Bentley and Bessie, as well as Nadia and Rosa knew that Phillip and Patton might possibly make life difficult for everyone at the welcome home party, unless appropriate measures were taken immediately in order to prevent that from happening. They also were aware that Xaviar, Cindy and Millie could be targeted by them, and wanted to protect them.

At least now, the three young folks were aware of the potential problems associated with alcohol addiction where the two young visitors were concerned. But, no one suspected that Maddie would try to become involved with the prince and Patton, although Millie knew she might show up at the welcome home party.

Patton had his eye on Millie from the moment he met her, but now, she had caught him drinking and would likely keep her distance from him. Xaviar and Cindy were closely knit because of Dancer, and that was a bond would not be easily broken.

Nadia and Rosa both realized that the welcome home party was extremely important to Bentley and Bessie, as he was in the import-export business, and thus, financially in a position to help many others, including local villagers. Hosting the annual welcome home party always gave them a chance to become re-acquainted with old friends, and to meet new villagers.

Bentley and Bessie, not having children or grandchildren of their own, always took a serious interest in the young folks. Thus, the welcome party always included the younger members of the local community, too.

They knew that having the prince present might give young folks added incentive with respect to attending the welcome home party. Maybe they could help some of them too, just as they were assisting Xaviar, Cindy and Millie. To them, the new school proposal presented a wonderful opportunity for young folks needing help.

Bentley was concerned about Phillip's obvious pain and spoke to Xaviar about the lift for Phillip's shoe. Xaviar explained that he had built it, but had not received an appropriate response from Phillip, or any cooperation from him with respect to placing the lift in his shoe, mostly because the prince had been drinking in excess.

Together, they decided to discuss the problem with Cindy, as Phillip would be working closely with her in the rose garden.

Cindy agreed to help however she could. Phillip finally agreed to let her put the lift in his shoe. He was actually quite embarrassed about being crippled, but he responded to her gentleness, and was totally amazed to find that it did help him to walk more comfortably. He could also stand straighter with it.  

But, it still needed a bit of adjusting according to Xaviar, who observed Phillip closely. He promised to have it ready for Phillip before the welcome home party, and was as good as his word. It was ready and Phillip could wear it comfortably.

Rumors about the prince's presence continued to spread around the village. Several the mothers of young ladies envisioned their daughters with him. For them, this was not an opportunity their daughters could afford to pass up. One of them might even become a princess, so making a good impression was important.