by David Harder
Tony looked squarely at Arleen.
“I think this part of your conversation should be taken somewhere else—separate from the group. Wouldn’t you both agree?”
Tony scanned back to Mike and then to Arleen. Meanwhile, the others in the room sat in silence. After waiting a minute or two, Tony pushed the meeting back on target.
“Mary, please be kind enough to read Arleen’s last productive statement, so she may proceed with her story.”
Without hesitation, Mary pulled the paper from the tray and began reading. “He stated that Stephanie was supportive of his decision and encouraged James to finally enjoy life. Unfortunately, James was frightened of the idea of divorce.”
Tony still gripped Mike’s arm but looked at Arleen with raised eyebrows, as if to say, “Well, go on.”
“The issue of divorce for James was one he could not resolve. As time moved forward, he and I ignored the subject, and we let our love flourish.”
Mike could not contain himself. “This is unbelievable. I can’t listen to this trash.”
Nate jumped to his feet and slammed his fist on the conference table. The telephone conference devices bounced up off the surface. Nate leaned over and pointed a finger at Mike.
“Do me a favor, Reverend, and stop talking, please. I, for one, want to hear what Arleen has to say, and I’m sick to death of your interruptions. I think I understand your position. In fact, I think most of us in this room understand your predicament. But please stop judging. You’re not helping your cause of Christianity with this attitude. This may come as a shock, but I actually want to understand how this mess works out. Can we be adults here for once?”
Nate stuck his hand out and held it, waiting for Mike to take it. Mike reluctantly grabbed Nate’s hand.
“Let’s be big boys here and agree to disagree. You’re a decent person, Mike, and I think you genuinely believe what you preach, but please try and be open-minded for once. If you continue with your judgments, I will lose all my respect for you, and I don’t want to do that. Do you?”
A range of emotions swept through Mike like a tornado. As he processed the feelings, all he could see was devastation in the wake. Still, Nate refused to let go of Mike’s hand and held on in a death grip. Breathing deeply, Mike could not win, and he knew it. He hated defeat, but at the same time, no one was on his side either.
Tom reached out and placed his hand on top of Nate’s and Mike’s.
“Jesus asked us to show compassion and not judge. Nate is asking for the same thing.”
Tony placed his hand on top of the other hands.
“Reverend, you’re intelligent and passionate. We’re asking you to be compassionate.”
Mike hesitated but appeared as if he would explode. Arleen stood and placed her hand on top of the hands.
“We are a team, Reverend. We are in disagreement, but I think we can maintain respect for one another.”
Tony could see Arleen was genuine and hoped Mike would see it as well. When Arleen smiled, it melted Mike’s cold heart.
“You all are telling me the truth and not blowing smoke up my backside?”
Everyone nodded in agreement. Mike let his shoulders slump.
“Okay, I accept.”
“Thank you, Reverend. That took courage, and I’m proud of you.” Nate squeezed his hand.
Mike sheepishly grinned. “Thank you, Nate.” It was truly difficult for Mike to accept his defeat, but he had to admit the people in the room were genuine and honest.
“Mary, could you help me out again?” Arleen smiled at the stenographer.
The stenographer quickly grabbed the paper from the tray and read Arleen’s last statement. Mary’s voice was confident. “As time moved forward, he and I ignored the subject, and we let our love flourish.”
“Thank you, Mary.”
The stenographer smiled and nodded.
“James and I lived apart and nearly halfway around the world from each other. Whenever we had the chance, we connected. I started flying to Asia for Chanel, and we tried to coordinate our trips, so we could be together as often as possible. Despite our efforts, James and I were only able to be together four or five times a year. Each time we met, we immediately started where we left off. Our love for each other grew almost as fast as our passions.
“Two years ago, James began his quest to find my daughter. Then, tragically, Samantha and her boyfriend were killed in an auto accident. Because I had to appear in court regarding my daughter’s paperwork, I could not attend the funeral. We talked by telephone, but I could tell James felt guilty for her death. He stated that God was punishing him for having an affair with me.
“In a courageous move, I visited the Catholic nuns where I went to school. I wanted some answers; and, although I feared the nuns, I had nowhere else I could turn. Sister-Mother Antoinette was amazingly kind and compassionate with me. She invited me to stay a few days at the convent as their guest while she prayed and asked God for guidance. Reluctantly, I agreed.
“For three days, the whole convent took a vow of silence and prayed with Sister-Mother Antoinette, fasting from all meals, except bread and water in the evening. I was truly frightened. On Sunday, the third day, the convent bells began ringing. I assumed it was the start of morning Mass, so I joined the others in the chapel.”
Arleen opened her notebook and thumbed to a particular page. She then took her palm and pressed the pages flat. She then began reading from her notebook.
“Sister-Mother Antoinette started quoting Bible verses, and another sister copied them down for me. Here is what she spoke. ‘Second Chronicles 7:14—‘If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.’ Luke 15:7—‘I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.’ Romans 12:17-18, ‘Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.’
“She then quoted Mother Teresa. ‘I am not sure exactly what heaven will be like, but I do hope that when we die and it comes time for God to judge us, He will not ask, how many good things have you done in your life? Rather, I suspect He will ask, how much love did you put into what you did? We cannot do great things. We can only do little things with great love.’
“I asked Mother Antoinette what all these words meant, and she smiled and said, ‘Guilt comes from man and the devil. Love comes from God, and God loves you, my daughter. Dedicate your life to His love and in all areas of your life, do little things with great love.’”
* * *
1 Paraphrased from Romans 3:23
2 Matthew 19:9
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
“I HAVE A QUESTION, ARLEEN.” said Tom.
“Yes, Doctor?”
“Do you understand the information that Sister-Mother Antoinette shared with you?”
Arleen paused, thinking about Tom’s question. “Are you asking me if I believe what she explained to me, or are you asking me if I believe in God?”
Tom was surprised by Arleen’s response. It indicated she had given more thought to his question than the few moments she paused. Tom suspected Arleen anticipated the inquiry and had given it considerable thought. “At first, I asked because I wanted to know if you actually understood what Sister-Mother Antoinette shared with you. But, after hearing your response, I think I’d like to hear your answer to both questions.”
Arleen looked down and folded her hands, pondering. She smiled and looked directly at Tom. “Yes, I believe in God. My knowledge is limited by the education I received from the Catholic sisters. James frequently shared his own beliefs with me, and we discussed them at length. To be honest, although I do believe in God, I’m confident it pales in comparison to your convictions. I understand what
Sister-Mother Antoinette shared, and her message was very clear. There is the matter of whether my life matches her wisdom. I must confess—I think not.”
“When you’re ready, I’d be delighted to sit and discuss these things with you at a later date.”
Arleen nodded her approval. “I think I would like that, Doctor. That would be terrific.”
For a small time, the people in the room sat in silence. Then Tony asked, “Was there more, Arleen?”
Glancing down at her notes, she looked up and continued. “James and I met only three more times following my visit to the convent. I shared the words of Mother Antoinette, but I am unsure if James accepted my words of comfort.
“During our last meeting, I explained to James that I would finally be able to meet my daughter, her husband, and their children. James was filled with joy for me. He said he would be unable to travel for the next few months due to a particular project at work. It was an unusual visit, and for the first time since we had known each other, I felt James was withholding something from me. At the time, I dismissed the thought, saving the discussion for another occasion.” Arleen paused, staring into space.
“We cried, and we kissed goodbye. It was the last time we shared an intimate moment, and the last time I saw James. And now . . . ” Her voice trailed off.
Tears began to roll down Arleen’s cheeks, and Tony again pushed the tissue box closer. Snatching a tissue from the box, Arleen blotted her tears and briefly laughed.
“I’m sorry. I miss James and love the man so much.”
The group sat in honored silence, waiting for Arleen.
Leaning toward Arleen, Tony gravely asked, “Were you finished, or did you wish to add anything further?”
Arleen shook her head.
Tony looked at the stenographer. “Thank you, Mary, for your hard work and patience. Do you have an idea when we could expect a transcription?”
Mary smiled. “I should be finished by tomorrow evening.” She started packing her equipment.
“Wow, that fast?” Tony was impressed.
“I have been transcribing every day. I will only need to finish today’s work.”
“Excellent work, Mary, and again, I can’t thank you enough.”
Mary smirked. “You’ll be getting my bill.”
Mary started for the door but stopped next to Arleen. After setting her bags down, Mary hugged Arleen and whispered in her ear.
Arleen smiled. “Thank you, Mary. You’re very sweet.”
Tony rubbed his flat palms together. “Okay, folks—are we ready for phase two?”
When Tony surveyed the room, the participants looked worn out and tired, but he ignored them and plunged forward.
“I know our meetings have been challenging for each of you, but now I have my own struggles. Tomorrow, I will be meeting with Jim’s children. The topic of Jim’s will is on the agenda. Once Mary sends me the transcripts, I’ll have an email copy sent to each of you. Doctor, did you get a chance to find out if your pastor will be speaking at Jim’s services?”
“He feels it isn’t necessary; but if you’d like, he says he will prepare something. He indicated that once he initiates our introductions, he will remain available but in the background.”
“Excellent, and thank you, Doctor. I think our group should meet the day before the service to go over any last-minute details. I believe we can accomplish our objectives in less than an hour. Are there any objections?”
After waiting a length of time, Tony wrapped the meeting up.
“Excellent job, folks. Please call my office if you have any questions. We will meet again in just over a week.”
The participants slowly stood and stretched. People were interacting with each other as they made their way to the door, but their mood was subdued.
* * *
Back in his office, Tony picked up his telephone and dialed his secretary.
“Hello, Shelly, do me a favor and check with Jim Kreider’s children. Find out if they have arrived and checked into their hotel. Please arrange for them to meet me in my office on . . . ” Tony pulled his calendar up on his computer screen. “Hold one moment—Okay, it appears I have an opening in my schedule on Wednesday, between ten and one. Schedule an hour meeting and see if this time will work for them. If they need transportation, please ensure the company car and driver is available. Thank you, Shelly. Please hold all my calls for the rest of the day.”
Tony folded his hands behind his neck and closed his eyes. Leaning back in his chair, he let out a long, slow sigh of relief. After a few minutes to collect his thoughts, he grabbed his cell phone and speed-dialed his wife’s number.
“Hello, Mrs. Toncetti, are you busy?”
“I’m always busy, Tony. What’s up?”
“How would you like to join me for a lovely dinner?”
“Would this date be with or without the children?” Rachel asked sarcastically.
“Your choice.”
Rachel pondered the question. “May I make another suggestion?”
“Oh absolutely, my love. What did you have in mind?”
“Let’s have an early family dinner, and then . . . you know that new spa that just opened near us?”
“Blue Lagoon?”
“That’s it. How about we get a couples massage and soak in one of their private hot tubs afterward?”
“Excellent. I love the idea. I’ll grab a nice bottle of champagne on my way home.”
“Make it Dom Pérignon, lover boy—especially since it’s a date night.”
“I’m looking forward to this, Rachel. I love you.”
“I love you, too. Bye.”
Tony typed on his computer and quickly found the Blue Lagoon website. After perusing their beautiful photographs, he dialed the business and secured an appointment. Rubbing his flat palms together, Tony exclaimed out loud, “Excellent! After today, I need this.” He then called the local liquor market down the street from his house and ordered a chilled bottle of Dom Pérignon.
“Whoa, Mr. Toncetti. A big celebration tonight?” The owner had a thick Italian accent.
Tony smiled. “Sort of.”
* * *
When Robert Kreider walked up to Betty Thurgood’s desk, he was wearing snug-fitting jeans and bright green tennis shoes. The pants were held up sans belt, and his youthful shirt was buttoned to the neck. A leather bag was draped over his shoulder, and he was wearing expensive dark sunglasses. He smiled down at Betty. She glanced up.
“Good morning, sir. How may I help you?”
“The name’s Robert Kreider, and I have a meeting with Tony at ten.”
Betty typed on her computer. “Yes, Mr. Kreider, please have a seat. Mr. Toncetti will see you in a moment. Are your sisters with you?”
Robert pointed his thumb over a shoulder. “In the lady’s room, I’m afraid.”
Betty nodded. “I’ll escort you in when they arrive. Would you like something to drink?”
Robert smirked. “A dry martini—shaken, not stirred.”
Betty’s face was expressionless as she allowed the young man foolish airspace.
Robert coughed. “Do you have bottled water?”
Betty reached behind her desk into a hidden refrigerator in her credenza and then handed Robert the bottle. She barely let a smile form on her lips.
Robert sheepishly smiled. “Thanks.”
Moments later, two young women of polar-opposite dress codes strode up to Betty’s desk. The prim and proper receptionist unconsciously let a small gasp escape her lips. Stephanie was smartly dressed in nice black slacks and comfortable, low heels. She wore a colorful blouse and matching jacket. She was dressed professionally.
Staci, on the other hand, was actually frightening. Her head was shaved on either side, leaving a narrow mohawk, which she had dyed jet-black, and she had cemented her hair into evenly-spaced spikes that were sticking straight up—like a fan. Her makeup was tawdry, and her porcelain white skin was covered in brightly colored ta
ttoos from her neck to her ankles. Metal piercings were placed into her tongue, ears, nose, eyebrows, cheek, and lips. Betty’s imagination could only wonder where other piercings were placed on Staci’s body. Staci wore a tie-dyed, loose-fitting shirt. Her tight-fitting, hip-hugging jeans stopped at mid-calf, and she wore old-fashioned lace-up boots with short, spiked heels. Lace ankle socks added the right flair to her ensemble.
Betty immediately pinched the bridge of her nose at the eyebrows, mimicking a headache. She was actually regaining her composure and needed a moment to gather her thoughts. Stephanie looked over her shoulder and spotted Robert, who was waiting to join his sisters.
“Robert! You’re dressed like that?” Stephanie pointed at his clothes.
“Seriously? We’re here to meet regarding our dead father, and you’re gonna critique my clothing style? What about the freak standing next to ya?”
Stephanie made a wordless sound of disgust and rolled her eyes.
“Hey, freak,” said Robert in friendlier tones.
“Hey back, Bobby.”
The two siblings hugged, and then Robert held his arms open like a little boy for Stephanie. She started to lean forward and reluctantly hug her brother when he then taunted her with another joke.
“Come on, sis. Give me some sugar,” he said, while grinning.
Disgusted, Stephanie pushed Robert away.
Robert shrugged, “Whatever.”
Betty stood. “Please, follow me.”
She ushered them through the frosted glass doors and into Tony’s office. Two chairs were in front of Tony’s desk, so Betty gathered a third from a small table in the back of the office.
“Please have a seat. I’ll let Mr. Toncetti know you are here.”
Betty closed the office door as she left. Stephanie took the center seat and got comfortable. Robert took the chair to her right but pulled it backward about a foot before sitting. Staci watched Robert and did the same with the seat to the left of Stephanie. Stephanie scowled as she glanced over her right, then left shoulder to see her siblings slightly behind her. She immediately thought they were being childish.
Robert had ulterior motives but wasn’t about to share. Staci was curious, so she imitated Robert. Stephanie reached into her small handbag and pulled out a rectangular makeup mirror. Opening it, she inspected her face and then casually turned the mirror so she could see Staci. Pivoting the reflection, she saw Robert, who was grinning like a Cheshire cat. The mirror snapped shut with a loud click.
