“Oh Henry, why do we have
to go to New York City?”
“Ida honey, don’t fret. I’ve told you . . .” He caressed her
shoulders as he continued, “we’re going to be staying with a nice family. There’s
an adorable little boy who’s about three and a beautiful little baby girl.
They’re expecting us.” He continued his massage of her shoulders because it was
the only thing that calmed her down when she became nervous.
Ida relented easier than
expected. “Henry, you know exactly what to say to me. I love little children
and who could resist a little baby girl. Are you sure it’s okay that I come
along?”
“Of course, Ida. I’ve
called ahead. They’re excited to meet you.” He looked at her affectionately when
he said, “Sweetheart, don’t worry. The flight will be fine. I’ll be with you
the whole time.” He gave her a hand a little squeeze. “Right by your side as
always.”
She took a deep breath.
“You’re a good man, Henry James. Let me finish packing while you go pray. See
if the Lord will tell you anymore about our trip.”
She was so in tuned with
his needs. It was one of the many reasons he loved her. He walked outside his
little cabin. The massive rainfall the night before left puddles in his yard.
He loved the smell of fresh rain that hung in the air for it reminded him of
his mother. She loved walks in the rain and he loved when she took him along.
They would discuss anything that was on his heart. She would say the rain was
God’s way of giving the earth a bath. Henry’s thoughts drifted back to the
present. Large oak trees surrounded his cabin like soldiers that protected the
perimeter of his home. At least he liked to pretend they were. It was peaceful
to be out in the middle of nowhere. He closed his eyes and suddenly he was on a
mountaintop. He saw with his mind’s eye two large rocks. A large eagle was
perched on top of the rock on the right. Henry knelt down on the wet ground. He
trembled with fear. The mountaintop swiftly filled with light. Henry didn’t dare
open his eyes.
He heard a voice say,
“There is much pain ahead for your young charge. The temptation to interfere
will be great. A work needs to be done in his heart. Don’t move on his behalf
until instructed.”
Henry couldn’t speak. The
heavenly being knew his thoughts. I will do Your will Lord, not mine. Give
me the strength and wisdom I need to advance Your kingdom. Henry knelt for
what felt like an eternity. No matter how many times he was brought to the top
of the mountain, he dared not look directly into the heavenly being’s eyes.
Even though he was terrified in the moment, he felt renewed, refreshed, and
strengthened afterwards. He knew the road ahead would be difficult, but as with
everything timing was highly important. He opened his eyes and he was back
among the trees outside his cabin. He got up with a bit of difficulty. His
knees were not that of a young man anymore, but he knew God would give him what
he needed until the day he went home for good.
* * * * * * *
Vickie sat on the couch with her eyes closed, taking in the
sweet sensation of feeling lighter than air. She hadn’t felt this good in a
long time. Phil stroked her face gently. It felt comforting. She sighed. When
she opened her eyes Phil’s face was close up against hers. His stare satisfied
her in a strange way.
“You’re so beautiful.” He took his index finger and outlined
her lips, just like Sal did the night before. “I’ve missed those luscious lips
of yours baby.” Vickie felt as if she was watching this unfold from outside her
body. He leaned in and she felt his wet lips on hers. His kiss was warm and
familiar. He pulled her closer and she felt his hand reach up for her bra
strap.
“Stop!” she managed to say. She pushed him away and stumbled
up from the couch. “This was a bad idea. You have to go now. I don’t want to
see you again.”
Laughing, Phil picked up the rest of his drugs, got up and
walked towards her. “Sure, baby. Whatever you say, but that kiss says you’re
not over me. I’m a patient man ‘cause I know you’ll be back. You know where to
find me and my goodies.” He gave her a peck on her cheek.
She wiped it off as she watched him close the door. She
walked over to lock it and caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. What’s
wrong with you? She was disgusted with herself. The drugs made her not
care. That kiss felt dirty, but how close she had come to letting herself get
trapped in that life again disgusted her. Vickie made up her mind. She needed
better self-control. She could do this, but she felt sick at the moment. She
better sleep it off. She’ll get Joey later. He’s safe with the Delfenos.
© Nadine Zawacki 2015
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