'THE NEW NEIGHBOR'

Chapter 1

"Mom, do you know anything about who's moving in next door?" Denise called out, as she gazed out her bedroom window. "There's a moving van backed up to the front door over there!" "Oh, are they here now? Mary was telling me last week at the beauty shop that Janet Forbes' cousin from California and his family are buying that place. Rivers, I think was the name. I didn't realize they'd be moving in so soon, though," Doris replied thoughtfully, drying her hands on a kitchen towel. "Do you see anyone over there?" she called out from the kitchen. "Come on in here, Mom. There's a real good view from my window," Denise responded, mischieviously. Hidden by the pink ruffled curtains, together, they peeked eagerly at the house next door, but, to their disappointment, only two men in white coveralls were visible. Denise and her mom watched as the men unloaded a refrigerator from the van, and with expertise, maneuvered it into the house. "You know, that house has been vacant a long time now. It'll be nice to have new neighbors," Doris commented. "I heard Dad say once that the owners of that house were 'asking a fortune' for it. But, it really is a nice house, huh." Denise mentally compared the large brick house, sprawled in ranch fashion to the newly remodeled white frame house she had grown up in. "You're right," Doris replied. "But, I've got to get back to work. You know how busy Saturdays always are around here! In fact, you've got quite a bit to do yourself, by the looks of this room!" Doris hinted strongly, glancing around the room as she exited. Easing down to sit on the side of her bed where she could continue her vigil, Denise wondered about her new neighbors. Perhaps it would be an older couple. That would be nice, she thought, if they weren't too nosey. Nosey neighbors were the pits!

"Oh, no," she thought. "What if they've got a bunch of little kids! No way could she handle that! Just having Todd, her little brother, underfoot all the time was bad enough. Denise groaned under her breath. She began to notice that the wind appeared hardly blowing at all today, the sun was shining bright. How unusual for this 'almost West Texas' country, Denise mused. It seemed so unusually warm for a late February day. Perhaps spring would come early this year! Then, something caught her eye. Her curiosity peaked, as she saw a new black sports car pull into the driveway next door, and she watched, amazed, as out sprang a young, delightfully masculine form! She took in the well-built torso, long muscular legs, and his olive colored skin, which was emphasized by the white tank top and walking shorts he was wearing. She could see his fine features distantly and noted his dark curly hair. Surely this wasn't her new neighbor, she thought, as she drew a deep breath excitedly. Denise's imagination began to run wild. It sure would be cool to live next door to that! Another car then pulled into the drive, and out climbed a man and a young-looking woman, who turned and assisted a small child out of the car. What a darling little girl, Denise thought, as the woman took the small girl's hand and the three began walking toward the moving van. As the strangers disappeared into the house next door, Denise heard her mother calling for help in the kitchen. Time to get lunch ready, Denise guessed. With the interruption of her train of thought, she arose reluctantly to the call of duty. "They're here, Mom. Why do you think anyone would move all the way from California to a small town like this? I can't imagine that!" "Well, Mary said they were hoping the small town atmosphere would help settle down their teen-age son. She said something about him getting in with a pretty rough crowd out there. And, too, they have a lot of relatives in the area, I think." "About the son, Mom, do you know if he's still in school? I got a pretty good look at him and he's a real hunk! I'm impressed! Denise smiled,

mischieviously. "Now, you better watch out, girl! He's a bit older than you, and I'd guess by the sound of it, he's been around quite a bit! I don't want you getting involved with someone like that! But, yes, I believe she did say he's in his last year of high school. Sounds to me like they waited a bit late to try to change his direction! And I don't want to have to worry about trying to change your direction, Young Lady! You just be nice to him and stay out of his way," warned Doris. But there was something in Denise's eyes that said the warning had come too late. The following Monday, Denise looked for her new neighbor in all her classes at school. She had only seen him darting in and out of the house and car over the weekend. Sure enough, to her glad surprise, she was seated in her fifth period Algebra class just before the bell, when looking up,she caught his eye as he entered the room. He sat near the back of the room, across from where Denise sat, and frequently, she glanced back in his direction. She had no difficulty getting his attention. She caught him watching her several times. When their eyes met, she could feel an electric current passing between them. She could hardly keep her mind on the lesson! As the bell rang, Denise picked up her things and started for the door, her heart beating rapidly in excitement. Determined to get to know her new neighbor as soon as possible, (well, Mom said to be nice to him, she reasoned), she managed to bump right into him at the doorway. Boldly, she smiled, saying, "Excuse me. I didn't mean to run over you! But, I think you're my new neighbor! I live in the white house trimmed in blue just south of you. I'm Denise Whitaker." "Well, hello, Denise. I'm Jonathan Rivers. Just call me Jon, everybody else does," he said, staring boldly at Denise. "I thought I'd seen you somewhere. Right next door, huh. Well, that'll be real handy!" He smiled with interest, as they stepped aside to let other students into the room for the next class. "Hey, since we're neighbors, can I take you home after school? Maybe we can make a few drags, get to know each other and you can introduce me to everybody. How 'bout it?" Denise hesitated. She knew immediately Mom was not going to like

this! But, it was the perfect chance! She could be his first friend! Besides, she'd love to ride in that dream-car! "Thanks, I'd love that! Why don't we meet at the side door after the last bell, OK?" "Sure thing, Babe!" Jon agree, as he hurried off toward the lockers. Reluctantly, Denise turned and hurried to her next class, English II. Throughout the class, notes kept appearing on her desk from other girls, wanting to know about the new guy in school. She was in Heaven! But, what was she gonna do about Mom? Denise had never deliberately deceived her folks before, but Mom would never understand just how important this was! She decided to call home and ask to go to Angela's house after school to study. They did that pretty often, anyway, and it seemed to be a simple solution. She would walk home afterward, she told her mom. It was all set! At the last bell of the day, Denise darted down the hall to the locker, grabbed the books she needed and headed for the restroom to check her makeup and hair. She simply had to look her best for Jon! She stood in front of the mirror, excited! Her conscience kept trying to challenge her, but, she wouldn't listen, couldn't listen, not now. It was too late to change her mind. What was done was done! It would be such fun and her parents would never have to know! She put her books on the floor and hurriedly brushed through her long, strawberry blonde curls, applied another layer of mascara to her already long, thick lashes, which brought out the sky blue color in her oval eyes. She added a small amount of blush, spreading it evenly, high on her cheeks, and freshened her lipstick. That's better, Denise decided, putting away her makeup, and straightening her pink sweater over her jeans. She sprayed on her favorite sweet-smelling cologne and went, reassured, to meet Jon. Rounding the last corner to the side door, she saw him, surrounded by several classmates (mostly girls, of course!), all volleying for Jon's attention. Smiling confidently, she walked right up, interrupting the open flirtation as she said, sweetly, "Ready, Jon?" She noticed his beautiful, chocolate brown eyes as he held the door open for her. She had been so nervous earlier when she introduced herself, she hadn't even noticed. Oh, man, he was so handsome!

Jon led her out to his car in the student parking lot. Denise laughed, "So you already have a fan club, huh?" "Not hardly," Jon replied confidently. "Just the 'welcoming committee' checking out the new kid in town! I've seen it a dozen times, haven't you?" "Well, they looked impressed!" Denise responded proudly. Jon opened the passenger car door, seemingly unaware of all the other students in the parking area, until Nancy, Denise's best friend, called out, "Denise, are you going to the 'hangout'?" Mark and I are! Why don't you meet us there, so we can get to know your friend." She smiled, as she and Denise exchanged glances. "How about it, Jon" Do you want to go there? That's where almost everybody goes after school." "Sure, Doll, show me the way!" Jon replied, as he started the motor. Mark and Namcy led out, Jon following closely behind, as Denise, so excited just to be riding in this awesome car and to be sitting here beside Jon, reveled in her good fortune. "Hey, do you look this good all the time? And you're not tied up? I mean, going steady or anything?" "Thanks. No, at the moment I'm free as a bird." Denise waved her arms in comical demonstration. "I love your cologne. It just fits you, you know? You can judge a girl by the type of cologne she wears. Did you know that?" "You've got to be kidding!" Denise said, laughing, as the car began slowing for the turn. They pulled up at the local Snack-Shack, which was beginning to be packed out with high school kids. They went inside and sat with Nancy and Mark in a booth. Someone had just picked some songs on the jukebox and it was playing loudly. They all ordered soft drinks and Jon was introduced to Mark and

Nancy. Immediately, the guys began discussing cars. "How did you get a car like that?" Mark asked, somewhat awe struck. "Man, what I'd give..., well, if I had it, of course," he added, almost apologetically. "Well, I think it was a bribe, actually," Jon laughed. "Dad seemed to think it would help me feel better about moving here. And I guess it worked, not that I actually had much choice about the move. But, it's OK." Denise noted a sadness creeping into his voice, even though he was laughing it off. It was easy to see that Mark was envious of Jon's new sports model. Denise thought of Mark's '93 Ford Ranger and remembered how proud he was the day he got it. And though he worked after school and weekends to pay for it, he always managed to keep it clean and polished to a brilliant shine. Her heart went out to Mark, but then, she, too, was fascinated with Jon's sports car. Jon was introduced to all the kids in the crowd, as they came near the booth. He had no trouble making friends, Denise noted. He was sure to be popular at this school! "So what do you guys do for fun around here?" Jon asked. "I cane from California and there are a lot of neat places to go and things to do out there. Do you go out of town for fun or what?" "Oh, there's always a lot to do around here," Mark spoke up in defense of his home town. "There's always somebody giving a party or a school sponsored project. Since it's getting close to summer, there'll be lots of banquets and the Spring Fling is coming up pretty soon, that's always a lot of fun. It's to raise money for the School Band. You're going, aren't you, Denise? Nancy and I are going." Mark smiled down at Nancy, slipping his arm around her possessively. Denise looked at Jon. Maybe he'd ask her to go with him. She'd already been asked, but hadn't made a commitment, yet. And wouldn't if she had a chance to go with Jon. "Sure, I'm going! It'll be fun! You'll want to go too, Jon, won't you?" "Might as well, if you'll go with me, Denise." Jon smiled, looking into

her eyes. "I'll bet we could have a good time, even if it was a drag!" Denise's eyes lit up, as a new color of pink crept slowly into her cheeks. Her heart began to pound, but she answered casually, "Yeah, sure, I'll go with you." Denise was conscious of the time passing and knew her mom would be getting anxious if she didn't get home pretty soon.She might even call Angela's house! "Jon, I hate to break this up, but, I guess I need to get home. I've got a lot of homework to do and my mom will be expecting me soon. "Sure, Denise. Me, too. See you guys tomorrow," Jon said, rising to his feet. "I'll call you later, Denise," Nancy called out. "I need some help with that English assignment, OK?" "OK," Denise said, smiling, as Jon slid his arm around her shoulder possessively. It was hard to believe she had just met him! On the ride home, she reluctantly asked Jon to let her out about a block from home. He gave her a questioning look. "Well, you see," Denise hesitated, her eyes begging him to understand,"my mom is real funny about things like this. I don't think she would understand about me being out with you - when I've just me you, you know - so I told her I'd be studying with Angela and would walk home." Jon smiled. "Sure thing. I know how folks can be!" He pulled over to a vacant lot near the street they lived on, put his car in park, leaned over and kissed Denise sweetly, catching her off guard. But, she didn't try to resist. "Thanks, Denise, for a great time. I really had fun with you. Do you want to do something Saturday night? Or can you work it with your mom?" Denise, still out of breath from the excitement of the unexpected kiss, answered, "I had fun, too, Jon! I'll see what I can do about Saturday night. I'll let you know,OK?"

She got out of the car with one last look at his beautiful, dreamy eyes. "I'll see you tomorrow, then," Jon said, as he drove away. Man, Denise thought, he doesn't waste time! She couldn't believe all that had happened in just one afternoon. It was only a short walk home, but it was but it was enough time for Denise to do a lot of heavy thinking. She had lied to her mother, gone to the 'hangout', (which her mother frowned upon) and she had let a stranger, (well, he was a stranger this morning), kiss her. But, it was only a brief kiss, just a 'Thank you' kiss, Denise reasoned to herself. There wasn't anything wrong with that, was there?

Well, even if he was a smooth operator, and he seemed pretty experienced with girls, she could handle it! She'd had a lot of boyfriends. Of course, she had never actually dated, just escorted to parties, banquets and such. And the parents, one or both, were always around. Also, she was only a sophomore, and until now, she never had a boyfriend older than her. Her mom would have a fit! Even if she hadn't already warned her about him! What was she going to do now? What about Saturday night? She really wanted to be with him. He made her feel so special, so secure. Was she falling in love? She had never felt this way before, especially about someone she had just met! With a divided heart, guilty about the deception and happy with the thought of being with Jon, she walked into the house and laid her books on the coffee table. "Mom, I'm home," Denise called out.

Sweet Deception
Chapter 2

Saturday came, and Denise managed to spend the night with Nancy, who was already allowed to date. So Nancy's mother thought nothing of it when Mark and Jon came to pick up the girls.

Denise had been sort 'on edge' all week, but she didn't think her family had noticed. At least, no one acted suspicious. Everything had worked out fine, Denise thought. Nancy and Denise promised to be at Church, and early enough for Sunday School, in exchange for 'sleep-over' privileges. Doris and Tom, Denise's dad, had always insisted on regular attendance. It was usually a drag to Denise, but it was just one of those things. Nancy's mom didn't go to Church and never insisted that Nancy go. And she was a good person! Better than some that went all the time, Denise reasoned. But, nevertheless, that was just part of it for her! At she would get to be with Jon! And he was just so sweet! And so exciting! And so handsome! The foursome drove in Jon's car to a larger town nearby. They planned to catch a movie and eat out. It was going to be such fun! Jon asked mark to drive, to Denise's surprise and Mark had accepted without hesitation. But, in the back seat, Jon insisted that Denise sit close to him. She wasn't sure just what she should do. What would Nancy and Mark think, it being her first date with Jon? But, Jon wouldn't take 'no' for an answer and she really wanted to be close to him anyway! He slid his arm around her shoulder and she felt so warm and dreamy. And he smelled so good! He was funny, too, Denise discovered, as he kept cracking jokes and being silly. The movie was good, but a little embarrassing. Some of the love scenes were a little too much! Denise and Nancy excused themselves to the restroom, once, when it looked like a really crude scene might be coming. Jon and Mark laughed at them, as if they knew why they chose to leave at just that moment. After the movie, Jon insisted they go to a nice restaurant as he was buying! So he was a big spender, too! He didn't have a job, Denise realized, but she supposed he must have a good allowance. His folks looked like they could afford it! It had been a really fun night and Denise was 'dreamy-eyed' on the way home. She wasn't used to staying up so late at night. And sitting so close to Jon in the darkness of the car, his arm around her, Denise gave in to the warmth of the moment, as she leaned toward him and laid her head on his chest, relaxing completely as she listened to the

regular, soft beat of his heart. It seemed as if she had always known him, she discovered, and loved him. As if they were meant to be together, forever! Eventually, the car pulled up in front of Nancy's house. The porch light was on. Mark got out of the car, went around to the passenger side and assisted Nancy out. With a glance at the couple in the back seat, he began to walk with Nancy to the door of her house. Jon leaned down, kissing Denise softly, then again, as he held her closer and whispered in her ear,"Babe, it's been fun. I love being with you. You're so sweet. I don't want to leave you." "I know. I've had a good time, too." Denise said, sleepily. She didn't want to leave the warm circle of his arms, either. But, it was time. She looked around and saw that Nancy and Mark were already parting at the front door. Jon kissed her again, then reluctantly began to climb out of the car and assisting Denise. "When can I see you again?" Jon asked anxiously. "How about if I call you in the morning? Well," he laughed softly, "I guess it's morning already, huh." "Oh, Nancy and I will be going to Church this morning. We promised my mom. But then I'll be going back home. Maybe we can meet in the backyard after lunch," she suggested hopefully. "Mom and Dad usually rest on Sunday afternoons, and they don't worry much about what I'm doing," Denise explained. "OK, I'll plan on seeing you in the backyard, then." Jon replied softly, as Mark returned to the car, passenger side, this time. Denise hurried to the house as Jon drove off. Looking back, she longed after Jon. This was absolutely Heaven, she concluded. Nancy and Denise didn't get much sleep that night. They talked and talked and talked! Denise thought she had never been so happy! Nancy and Mark had been 'going steady' for about two months and everything seemed to be going well for them. And Mark and Jon seemed to get along so well. Almost instant friends, Denise reflected. Nancy encouraged Denise's relationship with Jon. She was busy planning all the things they could do together as a foursome. That way, it didn't get boring, Nancy explained to Denise. Mark was awfully

sweet and usually a lot of fun, but, sometimes, things got a little dull, she confided. The only dark cloud hanging over Denise was the fact that she had to hide her joy from her family and sneak around to be with Jon. There had to be another way! And, yet, she couldn't imagine her mom and dad approving her plans. Mom had already judged Jon on the basis of rumor and found him lacking! Oh, well, it would all work out somehow. Things always did. Denise and Nancy arrived at Church just as Sunday School was starting. Roger Thompson was the youth teacher. He was a young guy, good-looking in an off-hand way, Denise thought, and seemed very knowledgeable. But, he was strange! He acted as if he really believed what he was teaching out of the Bible, as if it really happened just as it was written. Denise knew that the stories in the Bible were just illustrations of good and bad moral behavior and attitudes! At one time, Denise had believed it literally, but she had been young. And Mom and Dad had explained to her that it was very good to be kind and loving and good, but people went to Church in order to be respected and admired. And it was good for Dad's business. In the Insurance business, her dad explained, you have to be respected, admired and trusted. Participating in Church, community affairs and school functions built trust. Denise had decided it made sense and after all, Dad's business was good and he had many friends. But, they had explained to her, you just can't take the Bible literally. Only fanatics do that. They take things way too far, Dad had said. I guess Mr. Thompson is a fanatic, Denise thought. And it was a real shame, too. Their lesson was I John, chapter 2 today. They took turns reading two verses each, as Mr. Thompson instructed. At Denise's turn, she read:

"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life is not of the

Father, but is of the world."

It doesn't even make sense, Denise thought, trying to understand what it could mean. How could you love the world, anyway? Oh well, why worry about it, she decided. It didn't really mean anything anyway. Just like some of the poetry that everybody seemed to love, but was beyond her understanding. After all the verses in the chapter had been read aloud, Mr. Thompson began to teach on those things. He talked about sin, being separated from God because of the sin nature, being 'born again', the Lord's returning and not being ashamed of Him at His coming. None of this seemed to mean anything to Denise. She wanted to believe, she told herself, but how can you believe something like that? It sounded like science-fiction to her. Denise wondered if there really was a God. Could there really be someone 'up there' who really loved her? Then why did Mom and Dad believe it? But, deep inside, Denise wanted very much to believe there was a loving God that knew all about her, loved her anyway and could help her be good. Then her thoughts drifted back to Jon. Well, if this stuff was true and if there really was a God, she guessed He wouldn't understand about her lying to her parents. Maybe it was better if there wasn't a God, she concluded. The Church service was rather boring to Denise, after the singing was over. Denise enjoyed the singing, especially the special songs that were sung solo or by a group. They were more modern and entertaining! But, the preaching was making Denise sleepy and she and Nancy had to take turns pinching each other to stay awake, then they would almost start giggling, right there in Church! But they made through the service and they left the Church with Denise's folks and dropped Nancy off at her house as Denise eagerly anticipated the afternoon rendezvous with Jon. When they arrived at home, Denise began setting the table for lunch and assisting her mom in getting the food on the table. Doris always planned ahead. She had been taught well by her mother and was intent on passing it on to her daughter.

After lunch, Todd, Denise's younger brother, reluctantly helped her with the dishes. He wanted to go to a friend's house on the next block for a game of baseball with the guys, but Mom had insisted that he help Denise with the dishes, first! Doris and Tom retired to the bedroom to rest, Tom with the newspaper and reading glasses and Doris with her new novel. Mom loved to read, Denise reflected. Denise enjoyed reading too, except when she saw there were more exciting things to do, such as meet with Jon this afternoon! When the dishes were finally done and Todd had gathered his baseball, cap and glove, he headed out the door. Denise scrubbed the sink and put up the dishcloth dutifully and, after glancing out the side door to Jon's back yard, hurried to her room. She quickly surveyed herself in the mirror before going out to meet Jon. It was such a beautiful spring-like day! The sun was shining bright and warm, again, and there was hardly any wind blowing. The grass was already greening up from the recent rains and the fruit trees in the backyard were covered with blossoms, sending a sweet fragrance into the air. Denise had heard her dad say that there probably wouldn't be much fruit this year, the trees were blooming too early and would probably be killed by the late frost. But, it was a beautiful day! Denise chose a sunny spot away from the trees, but near the chainlink fence which separated the two yards and began opening out a webbed lounge chair and reclining, tuned in her favorite radio station on the portable stereo. She adjusted the volume to avoid disturbing her resting parents, and glanced anxiously to the River's house for a sign of Jon. She could hardly wait for that handsome hunk to come out! She couldn't believe her luck, getting all his attention like this! No longer did she regard her mother's warning about him, if she ever had, now that she knew he was a really super guy! A girl could just tell about things like that. The sooner Mom and Dad realized it, the better. She would have to work on that! ******* Jon peeked out his bedroom window through which he could view the

Whitaker's backyard as well as his own. Yes, there she was. Gosh, he had lucked out in getting to move next door to her! He hadn't wanted to move away from his friends in California, but, here he was, at his family's insistance. He had moved into a new neighborhood, in a small town, among relatives he had never known, starting a new school in the middle of his senior year, and having to make all new friends. Well, since he had no choice in the matter, he may as well make the best of it! The worst part of it all was having to leave Carolyn behind. His mom and dad didn't like him seeing her at all and Jon suspected that probably was the reason for the drastic move. Carolyn was a model, five years older than Jon, but so what? They got along just great. And she was so much fun and made him feel so mature, much more than just seventeen. She had told him he could pass for twenty-one and he had, several times, with the fake I.D. she had gotten for him. She took him to parties and clubs in San Diego, near where they lived and introduced him to her friends. Carolyn was always coming up with something exciting to do. So what, if he drank with the others, and got a little crazy? They had talked about getting a place together when Jon finished school. Of course, his parents would have a fit about that. Jon had promised Carolyn that as soon as he graduated and was on his own, he'd be back. She was making good money as a model, but, of course, he'd have to get a job too. Carolyn suggested that she could probably get him a job with her company after his eighteenth birthday, which would be soon after graduation. This company was strict about your age. Well, he felt like twenty-five after hanging around with Carolyn's crowd. He'd learned an awful lot. Pretty street-smart! he thought proudly. But, while he was here,(which wouldn't be long, the way he figured it!), Denise was an interesting diversion. And he could tell she was falling for him, hook, line and sinker! Well, he could enjoy the time he had to be here. He would just keep Carolyn and his plans to himself until the time came and if Denise got her feelings hurt, oh, well! He wasn't going to make any promises to her anyway. Let her think what she wanted! Jon sauntered out the back door, smiling. "Hi! Been out here long?"

Breakthrough!
Chapter3 Walking home from school the next day, Denise reasoned out the approach to use with her family to convince them that Jon was a nice guy. And nice enough to spend time with their daughter! She and Jon had discussed it yesterday and she really felt that she could not just keep on lying to be with him. And surely, if they got to know him, they would like him. So they had formed a plan of action. She would talk to them tonight. Dad, first, since he was a softie! Denise smiled. She knew how to handle Dad! So when Tom arrived home from work, Denise met him at the door with a fresh, hot cup of coffee. "Hi, Dad. Did you have a bad day? Are you tired? Here, sit down and put your feet up. Mom had to run to the grocery store and will pick Todd up from Cub Scouts on her way back. So you just relax a while, OK?" "Well, what's all this about, Kitten?" Tom asked. Denise noted the pleased look on his face, mixed with a little suspicion. "No, it wasn't a bad day at all. In fact, it was a good day! I picked up some new clients. But it was tiring and this coffee sure hits the spot!" Tom, being an insurance salesman, (and one of the best Denise thought), had provided well for his family. While thy certainly weren't rich, they had never lacked for anything that they needed or wanted very badly. He wasn't around much, but that's life, Denise concluded. "Tell me what has brought on all this extra attention for your old dad? What's going on with you, nowadays? We haven't had much time to talk lately, huh? I hear that cheerleader try-outs are coming up soon. Can't you get Mother to get you a new outfit, or what?" Dad laughed, reminding Denise of the preparations of the previous year for the tryouts. She remembered how anxious she had been to have everything just perfect. But, now, try-outs were the least of her worries! Denise assured Tom that everything was all set for the try-outs. "But, I've got some other things on my mind, Dad, and I really do need to talk to you." Denise hesitated, looking her dad in the eyes, very

seriously. "Actually, it's about a new guy that I'm really interested in." She was trying so hard to sound mature and Dad was quietly laughing at her. "I'm serious, Dad! I'll be sixteen before long. And nearly all my friends are dating already. Don't you think I'm old enough to date now?" Denise's big blue eyes were begging Tom to say yes, but he stalled, saying, "Tell me about this friend of yours, Denise. Don't I know him? What about that Freddie 'What's-his-name'? I thought you were 'going steady with him." "Oh, Dad, that was a long time ago! He was so immature! This guy, well, you don't know him, yet. And the only thing is, he's a little older than me. But you'd really like him, I just know you would, if you met him! And he likes me, too. Would you just let me ask him over so you can meet him? Please, Dad?" By this time, Denise was sitting on the arm of Tom's chair and pouring on the charm! "I don't see any harm in him coming over here, Kitten and we can meet the young man, if that will make you happy. But, I think you'll need to discuss anything further with your mother. I know you think you're just about grown, but it's still our responsibility to look out for you. Let's see what she has to say about it!" Denise knew he hated disappointing his family, so he often 'passed the buck'. It was a way of life around here! Well, so far, so good! But, there was still work to do, Denise told herself. That night, at the supper table, Denise mentioned the subject to Mom. Since Dad had already given permission to invite Jon over, Doris reluctantly agreed that it probably would be good to meet the young man, since Denise was evidently so interested in him. "But, what's this guy's name? Tell us a little about him first! How much older is he? Does he live here in town?" "Actually, he lives next door, Mom. His name is Jonathon Rivers. But he's not at all like you think he is, Mom. You'll like him. I just know you will!" "Well, I warned you to stay away from him. Maybe I was wrong, but you evidently didn't listen too well, either. But, go ahead and invite him over so we can meet him and we'll judge for ourselves. But, if he's anything like I heard he was, you will just have to find another

boyfriend! Is that clear?" Doris expounded with conviction. Todd interrupted the discussion, apparently deciding it was his turn for some attention and began teasing Denise about her new boyfriend! "Shut up,Todd, or I'll shut you up!" Denise threatened irately. What a pain, she thought as she left the table, relieved to have gotten this far with her parents. Denise arranged for Jon to come over after school the following afternoon. She was so excited when she finally go a chance to tell Jon. Their plan, at least Step 1, had worked! The rest was up to Jon! So, the following afternoon, immediately after Denise and Todd arrived home from school, the doorbell rang. Denise had been anxiously giving Todd last minute orders regarding his behavior and comments, as she went to open the door. Jon looked just as handsome as always, cool, calm and collected, Denise noted. Inviting him in, she called to her mother. As soon as she entered the room, Denise introduced Jon to Doris and Todd. Looking at the clock over the fireplace, she explained to Jon that Dad was running late, again, but should be here soon. Jon was very gracious and sat on the sofa, next to Todd. He seemed quite comfortable with meeting her family, Denise reflected, especially knowing how thy felt about his being older than her. But she hadn't had the heart to tell him about the rumors Mom had heard about him. They surely weren't true, anyway! Soon, Tom arrived for the special meeting and again, Denise attended to the introductions. Denise sat across the room from Jon and Todd, avoiding eye contact with him, lest their eyes should betray their relationship. Jon was casually pleasant to her, but conversed mostly with the rest of the family. He knew what parents wanted for their little girls, he had told Denise, and together, they had planned to make them like and trust him. And, as for Todd, Jon buddied right up to him, too. Jon learned that Todd was taking guitar lessons and mentioned that he played also. With a little prodding, Todd brought the guitar into the room, and after showing what he could do with it, handed it to Jon. Before long, Jon had charmed the entire family into singing along as he played old songs that everybody knew. Denise happily concluded that everyone seemed to be having a good time and there was no sign

of problems for the future. Jon certainly knew how to put everyone at ease, she decided. Her family surely couldn't keep from liking him after today! But, soon, it was time to stop the fun and get supper on the table. Doris invited Jon to stay for supper, but he declined, thanking her. He asked if he might be allowed to come over and visit Denise, saying he understood their reluctance and knew they wanted to do what was best for Denise. He agreed with them that Denise was young yet. He acted so mature for his age, so considerate, and wise, Denise thought proudly. Her parents surely couldn't refuse his request. Besides, he had not asked to take her out. Just to visit with her right there in her home. Jon was a big hit that evening with the whole family, although they were reluctant to admit it! After a few visits, Jon was treated just like a member of the family. Tom and Doris began to take an interest in him. Tom recruited Jon when he needed a man's help, they laughed at Jon's jokes, teased him unmercifully about his good looks, invited him to meals frequently and involved him in plans for the family. Jon had introduced his family, James, his dad, and Vickie, his mother, and his little sister, Amanda to the Whitakers. Tthey soon all became good friends, as well as neighbors, drawn together by the interest of their children in each other. The two families all celebrated together when Denise was again chosen for cheerleader for the coming school year and all seemed to have a good time, especially devouring the luscious meal that Doris and Vickie had prepared together. As the time drew near for the Spring Fling, Denise confronted her mom as they were driving home from a shopping trip. "Mom, Jon asked me to go to the Spring Fling with him next Saturday night. Can I?" "You know, somehow, I knew this was coming." Doris replied teasingly. "Your father and I discussed this just the other night and since Jon has proved to be so different from what I thought, I don't think it would hurt anything for you to go out with him to special functions, but you'll have to be home early. Can you handle that?" "Oh, Mom, thank you! You're the greatest! I can't wait to tell Jon!"

Denise's enthusiasm covered well the fact that lately she had left the house several times, after everyone was sleeping, walked down to the corner of the next block as she and Jon had planned, where he picked her up and took her to a very secluded spot overlooking the small town. And the times she had spent the night with Nancy so she could go out with Jon, without risking upsetting the relationship between her parents and Jon by pushing for dating privileges. She knew her family was totally unaware that their beloved daughter was so involved, so 'in love' that she could hardly deny Jon anything he asked! At last, she could see Jon without sneaking around, this time anyway! The curfew was early, but, at least she could be alone with him without lying about it! And as the school functions increased toward the end of the school year, so did the dates. And Denise became even more deeply involved with her 'knight in shining armor' as the time went on. Her world revolved around Jon, it seemed. But, her world was soon to change!

CRISIS
Chapter 4

Denise had just arrived home from school, and found a note from Mom saying she had a dentist appointment, she would be home soon, and that Todd was to spend the night with Tim, since it was Friday night. Denise went to the refrigerator, poured a glass of milk, grabbed a banana, turned on the television, and sat back to relax with her snack. The phone rang. She was sure it was Jon. They spent nearly as much time on the phone as they did together, nowadays. But, it wasn't Jon. It was Tom's secretary, and with much excitement, (or was it fear?), in her voice, she asked to speak to Doris. "Mom's gone out of town for a dentist appointment, she should be back pretty soon, though. Do you want me to have her ca11 you?" Denise asked, fee1ing curious. Mom se1dom had anything to do with

the business, that was Dad's territory. It was strange that she would be getting a call from his secretary. Reluctantly, the secretary finally explained her call. "Denise, listen to me. Your dad has been taken to the hospital. Now, don't panic- let's wait and see what the Doctor says, OK? I just need to let your mother know what's going on. Get word to her as soon as you can,OK?" "But, what's wrong with him? He's never sick, you know that! Why is he in the hospital? Was there an accident?" Denise asked, fear rising up in her rapidly. "No, there was no accident, he's just sick. Your mom will tell you more about it, I'm sure, when she can get more information. Are you alone. Denise? Would you like me to come over and stay until she gets home?" "No, thanks. I've got to get down to the hospital and find out what's going on. Thanks for calling." Denise replied, her mind made up. "I don't know if that's a good idea, you know, you probably won't be able to see your dad for a while, anyway. Why don't you wait until your mom gets home." "Well, I'll see, but. thanks for calling. Bye." Denise repondonded with finality. Denise looked up the phone number of their regular dentist, dialed the number, and asked for Doris. She was informed that Doris had just left. Now what? Denise thought, almost hysterical, by now. What could be wrong with Dad? He had never been sick, except with a cold, or something minor. She resented that the secretary had not told her all the details, so she would know what was going on. But, she probably was afraid she couldn't handle it, Denise thought, wondering if, in fact, she could! Denise called next door to Jon's house. "Jon, I just got a call that Dad's been taken to the hospital, and I can't get word to Mom, because she's out of town, and I don't know what to do! I don't even know what's wrong with him. His secretary just said he was 'sick'! Can you drive me to the hospital? I've got to see him, and find out what's going on. Please?" "Sure, Sweetheart, I"ll be right over. Don't worry. I'm sure it'll be OK,

and I'll be right with you!" "Jon, don't bother coming over here. I'll meet you at your car. That'll save time! Please hurry!" Grabbing her purse, Denise started for the door, then remembered the television was on. She turned it off, and ran for Jon's car, leaving the milk and banana where they were. She thought about Todd. Should she go by Tim's and get him? No she would let Mom decide about him. What would she have done without Jon? The trip to the hospital was short, but it seemed to take forever, Denise thought. Once there, Jon took over, asking where Tom Whitaker had been taken, and receiving directions to the Intensive Care Unit, led Denise to the third floor of the hospital, around the corner, and to the ICU's nurse's station. Tom had been found unconscious in his office, the nurse on duty explained, and had been brought to the hospital by ambu1ance. The examination and tests revealed that he had suffered a heart attack. He had regained consciousness, but still was in serious condition. He would be allowed to have only brief visits, immediate family only, every two hours until his condition stabilized, she told them. Denise, by this time, was crying uncontrollably, and Jon was doing his best to try to comfort her. It would be another hour before any of the family could even see Tom, so Jon suggested they try to catch Doris at home. They called Denise's house, but no one answered. Jon then obtained the phone number from Denise for Grandpa and Grandma Whitaker. He called, informing them of their son's condition, giving the facts as well as he could. They promised to be right over. "Oh, why did this have to happen? Dad's always been so healthy! He's got to get well, he's just got to!" Denise cried. Jon held her close, repeatedly telling her not to worry, it would be all right. Denise leaned on him, drawing reassurance from his calmness. She wanted so much to believe him. She couldn't imagine life without Dad. She remembered the things she had learned in Health class at school, and she had casually known some who'd had heart attacks. Some made it, some didn't, she recalled painfully. And it had been such an

ordinary day, until this happened! They kept trying to get Doris on the phone, and after nearly an hour, she answered, then rushed straight to the hospital. Denise's grandparents were already there by the time Doris arrived, and were in the waiting room with Denise and Jon. Noting that it was the time the nurse had said Tom could have a brief visit, they started to the nurse's station just as Doris rounded the corner. The nurse suggested that Doris go in to see Tom first. Doris was in the room only a short time, and returned with tears flowing freely down her cheeks. He was sleeping, she said fearfully. After regaining her composure, she suggested that Denise not go in to see her dad. Not like this! Let Grandma and Grandpa go in, if they wanted, but she was afraid for Denise to see her dad this way. Doris pleaded, but Denise insisted. And Denise wanted to go in alone. When Denise stepped into the little cubicle, she caught her breath. Her dad was lying there, motionless, apparently sleeping, in the hospital bed, with the lifeless look her mother had tried to describe. Oxygen tubing was strapped to his white face, wires connected to his chest ran overhead to a machine that had a continuous "beep-beep'. Bags of clear liquid were hanging above his left side, with tubing running to his left hand, which was covered with tape. Her senses were assaulted by the strong, antiseptic odor, and suddenly, Denise felt very faint. She had to get out of here! She made it to the door, opened it, and collapsed! She awakened in Jon's arms, with her Mom and Grandparents hovering over her. Then she remembered all that had happened, and began crying hysterically. The nurse came over, trying to calm them all, and explained that Tom was under sedation, and medication had been given to re1ieve the chest pain. The medication was being given intravenously. He was receiving oxygen to decrease the workload of the heart, and monitors were on to alert the nursed of any change in his heart activity. Everything possible was being done, she reassured them, and though the tests showed Tom did have some damage to his heart, the prognosis was favorable at this time.

Calmed by the nurse's explanation, Denise agreed to go with Jon to the Snack Bar of the hospital to get something to drink, to relax, and wait for more news. Doris reluctantly decided to call her parents who lived on a small farm just outside town. She remembered how pleased they had been when she had started dating Tom, and later, when she had married him. The two families had lived in the same town most of their lives. They attended the same Church, their children had grown up together, attending the same school, and though the two families weren't close, they had a casual friendship. Doris' dad had even coached Tom in Little League, along withhis own son, Doris's older brother, who had later been killed in the Vietnam war. For a while, after their son's only death, Charlie and Irene Smith had allowed Tom to fill the void, treating him in every way as they would their own son. But, as the young couple began to mature, having married right out of High School, Doris and her parents' differences increased, especially with her Mom, causing a rift in the relationship, as Tom sided with his wife, avoiding marital conflict. Doris and Tom had little to do with her parents, nowadays. Oh, they saw them at Church, and sometimes in town, but spoke politely, as if they were casual aquaintances, and went on their way. This had gone on for a while, and Doris was reluctant to break the silence. But, she reasoned, they did have a right to know about their son-in-law's condition. Doris dialed the phone. A male voice answered quickly. It sounded thick with sleep, and Doris realized that, although it wasn't late by her standard, it was probably well past their bedtime. Something quickened within her, as she realized how long it had been since she had called her parents. "Dad, this is Doris. Did I wake you? I hope I didn't alarm you." She hestitated a moment. "That's OK, Hon." Charlie answered, feeling both joy and fear at his daughter's long awaited call. "Is everything alright? You sound upset," he asked with genuine concern. "Well, I just called to tell you that Tom has had a heart attack. He's in ICU, here at Holden Memorial. I thought you probably would want to

know." Doris' mind returned to the crisis at hand, her voice reflected the grief and uncertainty she felt. "Do you want us to come over? We'll be right there if you want us, Hon!" He volunteered sincerely, not sure their presence was desired. "Oh, no. It's going to be OK! I'm sure he'll be fine. I just wanted to let you know." This call had been a major step, but she realized she just wasn't ready to spend time in their presence. Not with all her other worries! "Hold on a minute. Your mother wants to talk to you." Charlie said, handing the phone to his anxious wife. "Dorrie, are you OK? What happened? Is Tom's condition critical, or has he stabilized?" "Well, he hasn't had any more problems since he was admitted," Doris replied, trying to hide her fear and resentment. "And the nurse assured me everything was being done for him that can be. He was found unconscious at the office at about three o'clock this afternoon, they said, and was rushed to the hospital by ambulance. So I think he's doing pretty good, to have gone this long without more problems." "I'm glad, Dorrie. I know this must be a real shock to you. But, we'll be praying for y'all, and I know the Lord will take care of it." Irene said with conviction. "Well," Doris hesitated, feeling some of the old resentment and frustration returning. "You can pray for him, if you want, but you know I don't really believe that stuff, anymore. I know what you taught me, Mom, but things just don't seem the same to me, now. Anyway. I've got to go check on Tom, again. I'll let you know if anything changes." Hesitating again, almost unable to release the words from her tongue, she said, quietly, "Yes, I 1ove you, too, Mom. Bye." She hung up the receiver, as the tears in her eyes began to spill over. and again, run down her cheeks. She did miss that old assurance she'd had as a child, that prayer could really change things. But, how could any intelligent adult continue to believe those things? Look at all the misery in the world! Children dying of hunger, mass murder, drugs, earthquakes. She could go on and on! If God was really in control, if he would, or could answer prayer, why was the world in such a mess?

But, Doris knew better than to ask her mother these questions. She always had an answer for everything! Right or not, Doris thought. She returned to the ICU waiting room where Denise, Jon, Grandpa, and Grandma Whitaker waited for more news of Tom's condition. Her tears had ceased, leaving little clue to the emotional trauma just speaking to her parents had born. After Doris insisted that Denlse go home for some rest. and assuring her she would call if there were any changes, Jon walked with Denise to the car, gently leading her by the arm. He drove a silent, withdrawn Denise home, lost in her own world of unspoken thought. She refused his offer to stay with her for a while. She just wanted to be alone, she insisted. The days came and went. Tom was progressing nicely, according to the doctor on the case. "Medication is being given to dilate the coronary arteries," he explained to Doris and Denise. "That will allow increased oxygen and blood flow to the heart muscle itself. There was some damage to the right side of the heart, but it could have been much worse," the doctor continued. "The important thing is for Tom to get plenty of rest, and freedom from stress and anxiety." "As far as I know, Tom's not been under any stress at home, and he has an assisitant that he hired a couple of years ago, to help at the office, so he should be able to take care of everything that comes up in the office. Of course, you know that Tom has always been a 'workaholic'," Doris told the doctor. "But, I'll talk to his assistant and explain the situation to him, so he won't mention any of the business problems to Tom. I think it scared everybody pretty bad, when they found him unconscious. Do you know when he'll be transferred to a private room? If all continues to go well, we'll probably move him out of ICU in a couple of days- Then, if he continues to be free of complications, he'll be able to go home, soon. But, it'll be a while before he'll be able to return to work." A few days later, Tom was transferred to a private room, just as the doctor had predicted. Denise, relieved that Dad was no longer in ICU, rushed home from school every day to get her homework, help Todd with his, and then hurried to the hospital to visit with her dad. Doris spent most of the time there, nowadays.

Jon was always available to drive them over, but he seldom stayed long. He always had things to attend to. But, Denise understood. She wondered what she would have done without Jon! No longer was Denise afraid of the hospital, and it's equipment. In fact, she became quite fascinated by the things she saw, and was very touched by the other patients she met, while visiting with her dad. She was intrigued by the efficiency and professionalism of the nurses she met. Todd never seemed to take the situation seriously. He just laughed and played and talked with anyone who would listed, and seemed to enjoy the attention he was getting from the other patients and nurses. Then, finally, the long awaited day came, when Tom was released from the hospital, with a long list of 'do's and don'ts", and life returned to almost normal for the Whitakers. What a homecoming that was!

THE SLUMBER PARTY

Chapter 5

Jon, looking out the window to make sure his mom hadn't driven up, dialed the phone, long-distance, direct. He had waited as long as he could, too long, to talk with Carolyn. She hadn't answered his last two letters, and he was worried about her. What had happened? He knew she had been busy, probably just hadn't gotten around to it, but it was only two weeks until graduation. And he would surely get enough money in graduation gifts, with all the relatives he had around here, to go to her, even if Mom and Dad refused to help. Things had been so boring here. ever since Denise's old man got sick! She wasn't any fun anymore. She was always worried about "Dad", or afraid "Mom" might need her, or a million other reasons to stay close to home. Oh. she was still sweet to him, when they were together, but it was like she was in another world.

If he could just get Carolyn on the phone... That's strange! The recording said the number he dialed had been disconnected. Maybe he had dialed it wrong. No, the same recording, again! I can't imagine Carolyn without a phone, Jon thought to himself. She'd have to have a phone for her job. Well, then, what about the office of that company she had been working for? "Carolyn Adams, please," Jon asked with his most adult tone. May I ask who's calling, please?" "Jonathon Rivers. " "Thank you. Please hold." The receptionist had a pleasant, almost sexy voice, Jon thought, as he waited. It seemed to take a long time, but after a few minutes, a man's voice came over the wire. "Yes, this is Michael Brady. You asked to speak with Carolyn Adams? She's not available. May I take a message?" After a long pause, Jon rallied. "Yes, this is Jonathon Rivers, a close friend of Carolyn's. It's extremely important that 1 speak to her right away. Please have her call 915-" Interrupting Jon in mid-sentence, the man asked, "You say you're a good friend of hers? Well. evidently she has neglected to tell you that we have just recently been married, and that she'll no longer be accepting calls from her former 'friends'! Now. is there anything I can do for you, sir?" the man asked icily. In a state of shock, Jon replied, politely, "No. sir. Thank you, sir," and hung up the phone. So that's why my letters weren't answered. But, who was this Michael Brady? He had heard that name somewhere before. Jon started to the kitchen, pondering this unexpected turn of events. All his plans down the tube! How could Carolyn do this to him? Then he remembered. Mike Brady, she had called him. Her boss! Carolyn had married a fat, middle-aged, millionaire! Well. if he wasn't a millionaire, he wasn't far

from it, reasoned Jon. Can you beat that? She sure had wrecked his plans. Now what? He took the cover off the freshly baked German Chocolate cake, cut a man-sized portion, and poured a large glass of milk. Well, there were plenty of other fish in the sea! There was Denise. for one! And there were several other girls around here, for that matter! He could live without Carolyn! After all, he hadn't done so bad for himself so far! Jon had very discreetly been with a few of the other girls in town. since Denise had been so wrapped up in her family. After all. he hadn't made any promises to her, anyway! Sitting at the bar, he finished off the snack, as his mind raced feverishly. Jon's folks had their hearts set on him going to college this fall. He hadn't yet shared his plans with them. and now, he guessed it was a good thing, as it probably would have been a big hassle for nothing! Yeah! There would be plenty of girls and fun on a college campus! Only, why wait until fall to go to college? He could go to summer classes, right after graduation and get a head start on the other freshmen. He was ready to get away from this hick town, anyway, the sooner, the better! He could hardly wait to tell Mom and Dad. He knew they'd be glad to shell out the bucks for college. The day was starting to look brighter with every passing minute! With a new enthusiasm for life. Jon dialed the phone again. He decided not to burn any bridges, yet. "Denise, is it OK if I come over for a while? I really need to talk to you." O.K.," Denise said thoughtfully. "Sure. why not. We just finished supper, and Dad's going back to bed. Mom will probably watch T.V. in the bedroom with him, for awhile, and Todd's got homework to do. Yeah, come on over." They sat out on Denise*s front porch, and watched the gold, coral, and purple clouds in the west. as the sun slowly slid out of sight. Jon discussed the idea of going to school this summer, instead of waiting untiI falI. Denise voiced her disappointment sweetly. She had planned to spend a lot of time with him this summer, since Dad feeling better, she explained. But. Jon assured her he would be able to come home on

weekends, and she would hardly even miss him. "But, isn't this kind of sudden? You've never mentioned it to me before. In fact, I got the impression that the idea of college turned you off," Denise questioned curiously. "I know. Yeah, I guess it is sorta sudden. I just started thinking about it, and graduation is just two weeks off, and I didn't really have any plans. I could go to work for my dad, I guess, but, I just decided that Mom and Dad were right, I do need a college education. And if I'm gonna go, why not just get started so I can get it over with sooner," Jon explained carefully. Something began to stir in Jon, unexpectedly, though, as he thought of Denise, so pretty, charming, and naive, without him around. The thought had never occurred to him before, that she might be with other guys while he was gone. He found it to be a very unpleasant thought, surprisingly. He realized he would be very upset if he should come home, and find her seeing someone else. And it could happen! Sure, he planned to have a good time, and live it up at college. But, that was different! Impulsively, Jon took off his Senior ring. held it out to Denise, and in his most charming, sexy manner, said, "Sweetheart. all my plans depend on you. I can't go off to college, unless I know you'll be waiting for me when I come back. Will you wear my ring? Will you go steady with me, Denise?" He turned on the full power of his big, dreamy eyes. and read the emotion surfacing in Denise's. "Oh, Jon, of course. I'll be here for you. I haven't wanted anyone else since I first saw you! I'll keep your ring, and wear it, so I can feel close to you even when you're gone. But, don't ever worry about me wanting anyone else. Jon. you* re all I'll ever want!" They spent some time in sweet embrace, sitting on the porch in the ever increasing darkness. They listened to the night sounds, peaceful sounds, as they drank in the lovely warmth of togetherness, and commitment. But, as soon as Vickie and Amanda drove up. Jon kissed Denise goodbye, and headed across the driveway to his home. Now, to get everything cleared with Mom. He'd have to wait to talk with Dad tomorrow, as he was out of town tonight. But. he wanted to get all the loose ends tied up as soon as possible. Of course, he would have to

decide what he wanted to study, and where, but first things first! Denise lay in her bed, feeling safe, secure and loved. She had wound yarn around the backside of Jon's oversized ring until it fit her. Caressing it tenderly with her fingertips, she remembered how sweet and patient Jon had been with her during the entire time of Dad's illness. And now that Dad was so much better, and she was wearing Jon's ring, things were really starting to look up! She had dreamed of going steady with Jon, and now she was! This was a milestone in her life, she decided. Thinking back. she realized it was the first time since that slumber party, when she was just twelve years old, that she had felt so secure. But, then the memories of that life-changing night flooded over her, and with the memories, came the tears. She had been invited to a slumber party at Nancy's house, with some of the most popular girls in her Jr. High class attending, she remembered. She had arrived at the designated time and place, anticipating a fun-filled night. Many delicious snacks and beverages were set out for the girls' enjoyment, and they were given all-night cable T.V. and V.C.R. privileges. Two of the Mom's were present to supervise. Sleeping bags were spread out in the floor, leaving little space to walk, and the girls quickly changed into their pajamas. intent on having a good time. And as girls will do. they automatically separated into groups, talking, singing, shouting, and playing. After several hours of snacks, games, and scary movies, boredom, and exhaustion began to surface, and bickering increased among the friends. Denise, not one to give in easily to sleep, had talked Angela into being a model for her experimentation with make-up not usually allowed twelve-year-olds. After a few minutes of brushing and painting, Denise sat back to look at her creation. Angela, normally a very pretty girl, now had rosy red cheeks, (sort of clown-like), dark, straight brows, rainbow shadowed eyes with thickly smeared black lashes, and too-large red lips. Denise began to laugh, catching the attention of the other girls in the room, who quickly joined in the fun.

Angela had become very self-conscious at being the center of unwanted attention, and got up from the floor angrily, starting for the bathroom. But, Denise was having too much fun to let her wash it off so quickly! Enlisting the aid of a few more girls, she blocked Angela's path to the bathroom, and refused to let her under, around or through the barricade. On the verge of tears, Angela had turned her anger full- force on Denise! "Denise, let me by! I don't know why you're being so mean! Let me in there. Now! I mean it!" She shouted, pushing, pulling, and trying to break the barrier that prevented her. But, the girls just giggled, and pointed more than ever, spurred on by Angela's frustration, "You think you're so smart, Denise! You did this on purpose!" Angela screamed viciously, as she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror on the wall. "Well, you're not so smart! You don't even know who your own mother is!" The room grew suddenly quiet. What are you talking about?" Denise laughed. Of course she knew who her mother was. Was Angela freaking out, or what? "Your real mother didn't love you! She gave you away to strangers! I heard my Mom say so! See, you're not as smart as you thought!" Angela retorted, enjoying her revenge, and gaining momentum as all attention shifted from her to Denise. Seeing them whispering, and noting the frightened look on their faces, she retorted, "Who's she kidding?" She continued laughing at Angela's joke, until she became aware that everyone was quietly staring at her. No one else seemed to think this was a joke! Shocked, Denise looked unbelievingly at the other girls. "No. no! It can't be! It's a lie! Can't you see it's a lie?" The voice seemed to be coming from far away as Angela's words began to penetrate Denise'a consciousness. Then suddenly, Denise turned, and

bolted out the side door of the house, running with all her might, unaware of the darkness, the path or her attire, just knowing she had to get out of that house! Denise remembered running wildly for a very long time, her mind continuously questioning 'why?' Why did Angela say those things? If they were true, why didn't her parents tell her? If it was true, who were her parents? If it was true, why didn't her 'real* mother love her? She finally collapsed in the darkness, not even knowing where she was, and not caring! Unaware of the time of night, she blocked out the pain that was tearing at her young heart. Awakened as her Dad picked her up out of the ditch, and carried her to the car, she heard him repeating her name over, and over, and recognized the pain and concern in his voice, but Denise was unable to respond. After being tucked into her own bed, Doris and Tom tried explaining to her, but numbness and fatigue prevented Denise's ability to comprehend. Later, Denise came to understand that she had been adopted as an infant, since, after eight years of trying to conceive, Doris was still unable to get pregnant. Doris and Tom had explained how badly they had wanted a child, a family, and Denise had been a such a blessing to them. Several years after adopting Denise, Todd had been born into the family. She was reassured of Doris and Tom's love for her. They explained the fear and pain they had experienced when they received the call from Nancy's mom about the incident. They had even called out the Police to help find her. But, she had never been the same since that night. And frequently, especially in the quiet hours of the night, Denise wondered about the woman who had carried her in her womb for nine months, given birth to her, and then gave her away to perfect strangers. Was she still alive? Did she have other children, by now? Why didn't her biological mother love her? Denise wondered if that woman ever wondered about her. And, again, she wondered why.

GRADUATION DAY!
Chapter 6

A bright flash of light, followed by a loud crash, pierced the dark stillness. Denise awakened, momentarily disoriented, with her heart pounding heavily in her chest, and her breath coming too rapidly. What had awakened her, she wondered fearfully. There it was again! Denise looked at the clock by her bedside to determine the time. And again, the lightening flashed, quickly followed by a low. loud rumble of thunder. She crept out of bed, listening for sounds that would indicate another member of the family was awake. No, just the sounds of the wind ravaging against the house, a continual cracking, popping, and a few large drops of rain. playing music on the window panes, was all she could hear. A feeling of panic was growing inside Denise, as streaks of light penetrated her room through her closed curtains. Thunderstorms were prevalent in West Texas this time of year. She should be used to it. she thought. But. fear wasn't to be rationalized away. Trying desperately to calm her pounding heart, and cause her breathlessness to subside, she reminded herself that she had lived through a thousand of these storms without harm. But. still, she remembered occasions in which she had seen the damage done by tornadoes, and had heard the accounts given by the victims, all of which survived, luckily! She had learned the precautions one should take when the weather was bad, like this. at school, but Dad always just laughed at her. This fear. which affected no one else in the family, made her feel like such a child, wanting to run to Mommy to be protected! Glancing again at the clock, Denise decided she might as well get

ready for school. This was the last day of the school year, and graduation services were set for tonight! Jon's graduation! She was so happy for him. And so proud of him! Denise began to wonder how she would make it through school next year, without Jon being there. She had only known him for three months, but he had become such an intricate part of her life. She and Todd had been riding to school with him. and home again, the last few weeks. And she always met with Jon at noon for lunch. How lonely it would be when he was away at college! Oh, this weather really was depressing! And it should be a day of excitement! She and Jon planned to really celebrate after the service, and she was looking forward to it. As Denise looked into her closet to choose an outfit for the day, she jumped nervously at a loud clap of thunder. Would it never end? She chose a dress, pink pinstripes on a white background, made from a linen-type fabric, with a dropped waistline, and mid-calf length which accented her slenderness and height. It always made her feel like a lady, mature and feminine. She wanted to look special today for Jon. It was his special day! She continued applying her makeup, and realized the storm was quieter now. The flashes of lightening were becoming hardly noticeable, and the claps of thunder less frequent, just a low rumble, the wind seemed to have subsided, but the rain continued. Denise took a deep breath. She had made it through another one! She brushed her shoulder length hair until it glistened in the light, it's natural curls falling softly into place. Her first graduation party, Denise thought. And she could hardly wait. She knew many of the other girls in High School were envious since she was wearing Jon's ring. And now that she was allowed to date him freely, (with a curfew, of course), she felt sort of accepted by even the older girls in school, the 'in crowd'. It was such a cool feeling! Completing her preparations, Denise gathered her raincoat, umbrella, and purse, setting them on the sofa in the living room, and started toward the heavenly smell of bacon frying in the kitchen. Denise hurried through breakfast, and warning Todd to hurry, checked herself over one more time. Jon would be here any minute. She heard Jon's car honk and she and Todd, carefully choosing their

path to avoid walking in the standing water, made their way to his car. Jon was visibly inpressed as he watched Denise approach the car. "Babe. you sure look fine. today!" His eyes lingered on her briefly. She read the look of admiration, and pride in his eyes. the look she had wanted to capture. This day was going to be good. after all, Denise decided happily. *******

Finally! The day was almost over! The rain had stopped and started, several times. It continued to be a cloudy, dreary day. Only one more class to go, then she would be with Jon, again. But, on her way to class, she decided to make a quick visit to the restroom. It was not unusual for the restrooms to be packed between classes. Today was no exception. After finally getting into the stall, she thought she heard someone mention Jon's name. Denise did not mean to eavesdrop, but how could she help it? Who was doing the talking? She didn't recognize the voice. But they must be standing near her stall door, she decided, because even though they were talking in hushed voices, she could hear every word clearly. "You know who he is. that guy that just moved here a few months ago! Dark hair, olive skin, big, beautiful brown eyes. Remember? Well. it was pretty late when I ran into him at the convenience store, but we talked a while, then we went on the drag, together. He drives that gorgeous black sportscar. you know the one! Anyway, we had a great time. and man, does he ever know how to kiss! Not like most of the amateurs around here, that's for sure! I didn't get home until two o'clock in the morning. I heard he's gonna be at the party tonight, and I can't wait. He's gonna take me home tonight, if I have anything to do with it!" Denise saw only a bit of a girl's leg, and her beige, flat pumps as the girl walked past the stall door, still rattling on, then heard the stillness in the room as the large door sqeaked open, and closed. She winced with pain at the things she had overheard. Could that really have been Jon they were talking about? Yet, the description sure fit. And she described his car! But, how? When? Why? And what could she do? Should she just ignore it? Or

confront Jon with what she had overheard? Or hunt down the girl wearing the beige slippers? Denise had no idea who it was! Surely, this couldn't have happened since they had been going steady, Denise thought. They had been together almost constantly. But, she always had to be in early. The girl said it had been late when they met. No! It couldn't have been Jon! She had to be wrong. Maybe someone else who resembled him, although she couldn't think of anyone like that in this town! But, what if it were true? Denise had never doubted Jon's loyalty to her before. Oh, what an awful day this has been. all day long! And the cloud that hung over her now was far darker than the ones that hung over the small West Texas town! *******

The small auditorium was packed to capacity. The Whitakers and the Rivers sat together, awaiting the climax of all the years of public education for Jon, and the eighty-one other graduating seniors. There was an almost continual hum in the building generated by the whispers and quiet conversation of the visitors. as final details were completed behind the stage, readying for the service. Just then. three-year-old Amanda, who was sitting on Denise's lap. whispered in Denise's ear. "I gotta go, 'Neece." "Where do you want to go, Amanda?" Denise questioned patiently. "I gotta go to the bathroom. Will you take me?" Amanda looked at Denise, pleadingly. Denise looked at Amanda's big, brown eyes. Exact replicas of her big brother's, Denise thought. And they seemed to have the same power to melt her, too. Denise looked at her watch. It was just about time for the service to start, and Denise didn't want to miss a single minute of it. Amanda, sensing Denise's hesitation, put her arm around Denise's neck. saying, "Please, 'Neece. I gotta go now!" "O.K., Dumplin', but we'll have to hurry! The service is gonna start right away."

Denise leaned over to tell Doris they would be right back, and hand in hand, Denise and Amanda walked to the back of the auditorium to the restroom. Unintentionally, Denise kept noticing the shoes of every girl she met. But, to no avail. No beige slippers! At Denise's insistance, Amanda hurried. Amanda was always trying to please her, Denise thought, happy to be regarded highly, affectionately, by Jon's little sister. It made her feel just that much closer to Jon! Straightening Amanda's dress, then lifting her to the sink to wash her hands, she thought how she would love to be a mother to a little girl like this. A warm feeling came over her. until she remembered her mother, her biological mother, and wondered if she had ever felt this way, before giving her away to strangers. If she just knew why! Of course, Denise loved her adopted parents, and thought no mother could have been better to her. But, still, she couldn't help but wonder. And there was always a sharp pain with the thought of being rejected by her own mother. Then she heard the music start in the auditorium, and she and Amanda hurriedly made their way back to their seats, which were as near to the front as possible. James, Jon's dad, had brought his movie camera, with plenty of cartridges, and Tom was prepared with his camera and flashbulbs, as they waited for Jon to march down the aisle. Just as they sat down, with Amanda again in Denise's lap, the procession of graduating students began, as the students marched single-file to the reserved seats in the very front, each looking very distinguished in the black robes, and caps with dangling gold tassels. Amanda was the first to spy Jon among the students. "Look, 'Neese! There he is! There's Bubba!" she cried excitedly, pointing toward him. The flashes from all the cameras were lighting up the aisles, as the honorees proceeded along. The service was brief, considering all the speakers that each had a turn at relating a humorous, sentimental, or important moment in the

lives of one, or all of this graduating class. Then, time came for each to ascend to the stage to receive their diploma. Many tears were shed, as mothers and fathers watched their offspring receive the recognition each had worked so hard for. There were tears in Denise's eyes. too, but she didn't stop to analyse why. She just felt so proud for Jon, her Jon! As the class marched single-file from the auditorium to the reception hall, holding their awards, the entire audience came to their feet, and as soon as possible, made their way to congratulate their special graduate. Much to Amanda's disappointment, it was soon over, and Denise rode off with Jon. After a few drags around town, Jon headed toward home for a change of clothes. When they arrived at Jon's house, there were relatives' cars parked all around, and the house was aglow with lights. There was quite a celebration right there at Jon's house, before they left to go to the party. The house was decorated inside with streamers, and balloons. A large cake, decorated just for Jon, was centered on the table, with the punch bowl filled, and the nearby buffet was loaded with graduation gifts for him. Jon insisted Denise help with opening the gifts, and there was much laughter, and joy. He received many gifts, some for use in the college dorm, clothes, money, and a few gag gifts! But the most special gift of the evening was from Denise! It was an expensive gold I.D. bracelet, with her name engraved on it. It had been placed on lay-away over a month ago. Originally, Jon's name was to have been engraved, but after committing to 'steadies', she had changed the order. Denise had paid on the gift weekly with her allowance, leaving very little to spend elsewhere, but she didn't mind. He was worth it! She wanted so much to please Jon! He held out his arm for her to fasten it on him, as 'ooh's and aahs' came from all over the room. Then right in front of everybody, he leaned over and kissed her sweetly, briefly. Everyone laughed and teased Denise about blushing! But she was

happy. So happy! The day had finally brightened, she thought. Jon changed from his white shirt, tie, and dress pants, to black jeans, and a red and black striped sports shirt. And with his black and silver trimmed belt and black boots, Denise thought he could not have looked more handsome. And like a native Texan! Denise was going next door to change, but Jon insisted she looked perfect in her new white jumpsuit. So, as soon as was courteously possible, they said goodbye, and left for the party, with a gentle reminder from Doris that Denise was to be home by midnight. And that was being lenient, Denise thought! Denise felt so close to Jon tonight. She chided herself for even thinking Jon might have been unfaithful to her! Not her Jon! It had to have been someone else. or perhaps, the girl had just been fantasizing out loud. She knew lots of girls would like to have been in her place!

PARTY TIME!
Chapter 7

There were two different graduation parties going on tonight, Denise knew, one which was parent/school sponsored, and one some of the students decided to put together. Denise was surprised when Jon pulled up at a large house on the edge of town. She hadn't bothered to ask which party they were going to, assuming it would be the one highly advertised by the school newspaper, which was held at the local Community Center. The yard was well lit. but so many cars were parked there already, that Jon had to drive around the block to find an empty parking space. "Who lives here. Jon? I'm not very familiar with this part of town," Denise asked curiously. "I think the Benson's. You know Gloria Benson, don't you?" "I recognize the name, but I'm not sure if I know her."

"She's cool. you'll like her," Jon replied. Music drifted from the house, and laughter, audible even out to the parked car. This was going to be a night to remember, Denise thought with excitement, and a heady sense of adventure. She felt so mature, so privileged, getting to go to a private graduation party, and she was only a sophomore! As they approached the door to the house, Jon was saying, as he held her hand tightly, "Babe, are we gonna have fun tonight! Man, we can cut loose! I'm sure glad that stuffy ceremony is over. I couldn't wait to get out of there!" "I know you must have been nervous, but, it's all over now. At least for four more years," Denise answered. "Then you'11 have to go through it all again!" They laughed, and Jon squeezed her hand. "Yeah, but that one will be a lot different. I'll have my degree in Business and Accounting, and I'll be set for life!" "You sure don't look like any accountant I know!" Denise remarked, as she thought he looked more like a movie star or country singer type! The door opened just as they reached the step, and someone invited them in. The music was turned up loud, the room was packed, and the lights were dim. Jon led Denise over to a table where a keg of beer was sitting, drew up a glass, handed it to Denise. and drew one up for himself. "I really don't like beer. Jon. Could I just have a Coke?" she asked hesitantly, trying to hand it back to him as she looked self-consciously around the room. "Oh, come on. Denise. drink it up. You*11 have a lot more fun if you do! Besides, everyone is drinking. You'll get used to the taste after a few drinks." He took her by the hand. and led her over to a group of older kids. She knew most of them in a casual way, but, she wasn't impressed with them. They had a reputation for pulling all kinds of wild stunts. Denise looked around for someone with whom she would feel more comfortable, but didn't see anyone with whom she was more familiar.

Slowly, she sipped her beer. trying hard not to make a face with each swallow. The bitterness was assaulting her taste buds! Jon was laughing and talking with his friends, and she smiled, and laughed appropriately, trying to appear at ease.Then. Jon turned, took her in his arms, and danced away from the group, to the beat of a very sweet, romantic song. A few of the other couples were dancing, too, she noticed, but there was such an air of excitement, it was difficult for her to relax. "Hey, this is the first time we've danced together, isn't it?" Jon asked sweetly, in Denise's ear. "Uh huh," Denise replied softly. "I'm afraid I haven't had much practice." "You're a little tense, but, you'll loosen up! You sure feel good to me, close like this! What's that perfume you're wearing? It's driving me wild!" Just as Denise was about to answer him, a guy she knew as Chris cut in and Jon released her to him. Denise reluctantly finished the dance with him, observing his weird haircut, and wondering why anyone would want lines shaved into the sides of their hair. Of course, she knew a lot of guys did it, lately. But she couldn't understand why! She kept glancing around the room, watching Jon, as he refilled his glass, gulped it down, then began dancing with another, older girl. She winced at how closely he was holding her. Did she have a right to be jealous? She admitted to herself that she was, right or not! As soon as the song ended, Denise excused herself, and began looking for a restroom. There, she found a place of privacy for a few moments. She tried to get hold of herself. It's just because you don't know the kids well. Surely, they're not that bad. Jon likes them, she counseled herself. And a little beer never hurt anyone! Just because you've never been to a party like this before is no reason to be so uncomfortable. After all. you're with Jon, so it's OK. Just relax and have a good time! Don't get all bent out of shape about him dancing with that other girl, close like that. What do you expect? He"s a man, isn't he? But, he's going steady with you! It's amazing how good a friend a mirror can be. Denise marvelled, feeling much better, now. Denise returned to the scene just in time to catch the contest! All the guys were drinking beer just as fast as they could, trying to outdrink

each other in time, and quantity, Denise decided. Everyone was laughing, and acting really crazy. Denise retrieved her glass, and began seriously trying to drink the beer, in spite of the awful taste. She wished Jon hadn't participated in the contest. She could have enjoyed the fun a lot more. But, oh well, it was his night. Let him have his fun! The contest ended with several large burps, and the winner was still in question. The group dispersed, laughing, and again, some began to dance. As Jon held Denise tightly against him, swinging slowly to the music in the dimly lit room, Denise found herself finally starting to relax. She loved being close to Jon. feeling loved. He was softly singing the words of the love song in her ear, sending tingles down her spine. Just then, she caught a glance, just a glance across the room, between couples. Could it be? Were those the beige slippers she had seen in the restroom earlier today? Her whole body stiffened suddenly, as she strained to get a closer look. "What's the matter, Denise?" Jon asked, as he tried to avoid stepping on Denise's foot. Denise noted the sound of slight irritation in his voice. "Oh, nothing, Jon. I'm sorry!" Denise answered, self- consciously. "I thought I saw someone. Oh, never mind. I'd better watch what I'm doing, huh!" She moved even closer within the circle of his arms. "Who did you see? Someone you wanted to talk to?" Jon questioned. "Oh, no. It was nothing. Just forget it," Denise responded sweetly. But when the dance was over, and Jon headed for the restroom, Denise milled about, looking for a pair of beige pumps, and the girl who was wear ing them. And there she was, with bright copper-red hair, worn shoulder length, a creamy light complexion, and looking very pretty and petite in her short dress. The skirt was made in layers of ruffles in a very becoming style, with shades of blue print on a beige background. Denise recognized her as being in Jon's class, and she had seen her around the school, but couldn't recall her name. The girl seemed to be having a good time, as she was guzzling her beer, and laughing

excitedly with her friends. But suddenly, a loud commotion was heard in the other end of the large room, with loud cursing, as one guy ended up against the wall, and two others jumped on the one who had shoved him there! And, right before her eyes, a free-for-all began! Denise looked around the room, helplessly. Where was Jon? Surely, he wasn't in on the fight! The lights were so dim she could hardly tell, for sure. Recoiling against the farthest wall, Denise cringed, awaiting the outcome, even holding her breath at times. There was so much noise in the room, with the loud music, hollering, screaming, cursing and fighting, she could hardly hear herself think! It was all happening so fast. Everything was becoming quite chaotic. Other's were jumping in on the fight, even some of the girls. Then, Jon came running up to Denise, stumbling, and hollered above the noise, "Let's get out of here! Now!" Guiding her out the back door they heard a siren, and he quickened their pace unevenly. Just as Jon's car pulled around the block, looking back, they saw the police car with the red and blue lights flashing pull up in front of the house they had just left. "Whew! We barely made it!" Jon said, with relief. Denise noticed his speech was starting to slur. And as he drove, making his way to Main Street, she noticed he was going awfully fast for this part of town. "Jon. slow down! You're going too fast!" With no response attained, she tried again. "Jon, you've been drinking, and you've got to slow down! "Denise, I can handle my beer! Don't you worry about that! Man, I bet the neighbors called the cops, with all that fighting and hollering going on. I'm glad we got out of there when we did! I bet somebody is gonna be in trouble over all that!" Jon said excitedly, as he made a right-hand turn, going much faster than was necessary, and swinging Denise almost onto the console! "Jon, please slow down. You're scaring me! Or let me drive! I only drank that one glass of beer that you gave me. Please. Jon, please!" Denise pleaded. "What's the matter with you, anyway? What are you nagging me for? I

haven't done anything to hurt you, have I? I know what I'm doing! I can drive just fine!" Jon exclaimed, with bitterness in his voice. Denise was suddenly scared, and shocked! She had never seen Jon like this before. She had never seen anyone like this before! Except, perhaps, in the movies. What could she do? Jon was driving even faster, now, since she had asked him to slow down! "Jon. it's nearly midnight, isn't it?" She asked calmly, much more calmly than she felt. "I'd better go on home. Jon." Denise was fighting a rising panic, as Jon had turned onto the highway heading out of town, and was picking up speed quickly. "I'm not ready to go home! I'm having a good time! What are you griping about? You don't even know how to have a good time, do you? That's what's wrong with you!" Jon said, slurring the words. "You didn't drink enough to even loosen up! How did you expect to have a good time? But, that's alright! I know where we can get some more beer. You'll have a good time, yet!" He sounded very conf ident of that, Deni se thought, doubtfully, in her near-panic. "But Jon, I have to be home by midnight. You know my folks! They'll have a fit if I'm not there! Please take me home, Jon. You're drunk, and you're starting to scare me! Please. Jon!" Denise begged, as she caught her breath between sobs. "I'm not drunk! It takes a lot more than that to get me drunk! I'm just starting to feel good. And your parents are sound asleep by now. anyway! They'll never even know!" Jon slurred, as the needle of the speedometer kept rising. Denise continued to plead with Jon to slow down and take her home. But, Jon was beyond reason. He threw on the brakes, bringing the car to a sudden halt in the midle of the highway. Denise was holding on tight to avoid being thrown into the windshield, and wishing she had used the seatbelt that Jon had tucked in under the seat! "OK, I"ve had enough of you! Shut up, or get out!" Jon shouted to her. "I'm gonna get some more beer at the county line. You can stay, or go, but make up your mind! Now!" Denise was scared! Scared for herself, and for Jon! What should she

do? Should she get out and try to make it back to town on her own? How far out was she anyway? She looked around for some clue but saw only desolation in the darkness. There wasn't much traffic on this road, tonight, Denise thought. And it was lightening off in the west. If she wemt with Jon, where would it end? Was there any way to keep him from wrecking his car, and possibly killing them both? And. if he got more beer, what then? The man she loved had turned into a monster, Denise thought, as she tried to restrain her tears and decide what to do. But Jon made that decision for her, as he leaned over and opened her door. "Get out! If it takes that long for you to decide, just get out! I haven't got all night!" "No, Jon. I'm sorry!" Denise said. crying quietly by this time. But, Jon pushed her hard, out the door, mumbling, cursing, ignoring her panicked screams. He drove off, leaving her in a crumpled heap on the pavement. She watched the car door swing indecisively for a moment, then, finally swung shut, as Jon zoomed down the highway. The car went speeding over the hill, and was soon out of sight, leaving a fearful, unbelieving fifteen-year-old girl in the darkness, alone.

SURVIVAL
Chapter 8

Denise lay there on the pavement edge, for what seemed to her like hours. Shocked into disbelief, staring after the black sportscar, which was no longer in sight. He'll be back, any minute now, he'll be back, she reassured herself. She began to look around for a house nearby, where maybe she could use the phone, if it turned out that she needed it. But, she saw only open fields, and in the darkness, she could hardly see the fields. The occasional, far-away lightening in the west offered 1ittle help. So she waited.

There had been no cars on the road since Jon had driven off. Denise felt totally isolated, and it was starting to get a little chilly! Finally, she rose up, brushed off her white outfit, and tried to decide what to do if Jon didn"t get back soon. What time is it, anyway, she wondered. She looked at her watch, but it was to dark to see the tiny hands. Would Mom and Dad come looking for her if she was late? Of course, no one knew where she was, except Jon! Was he too drunk to care? In the darkness, the stillness of the night she heard the coyotes began to howl in the distance. She recognized the sounds but, still, she responded in fear. She had never been alone with this sound, this darkness, and cold, before. Oh, please, Jon, please, hurry back! Denise cried out in the night. Suddenly, off in the distance, in the opposite lane, and just above the hill. she saw a light. Coming closer, she identified two headlights moving toward her. At last! Jon had returned for her. She had known he would! It was all that beer he had drank at the party that had caused him to to go crazy, but now he had come to his senses. Relief flooded over her, as she made her way across the highway to meet his car. Yes, it was slowing down. It had to be Jon! But, as the vehicle neared, she realized this was not Jon's sleek little sports car! This was a pickup truck! Now what? Terror seized Denise, and she started to run, looking for some place, any place to hide. Everything she had ever seen on television about rape, violence, and murder played havoc in her mind. But, there was no place to hide, no time to cross the fence, and the mud was deep, and sticky when she veered off the pavement. The truck was driving slowly behind her as she ran with all her might! "God. help me. Oh, God! Please help me!" Denise screamed in panic. There was nowhere else to turn! As her hysteria took its toll, her weak legs began to refuse to run further without hope of refuge. She finally gave way to the oblivion that was beckoning her. ****************************************************** The pickup came to a halt, the headlights still shining on the figure just ahead, clothed in white, which had just collapsed on the side of the road. Slowly, deliberately, the man climbed out of the truck, and, looking around in the darkness, cautiously, walked over to the still form, calling to the girl softly. "It's all right. It's O.K., I'm not going to

hurt you. Don't be afraid." But, there was no response from the young girl. He couldn't just leave her out here. What should he do? He was so tired. He had been fighting sleep for several hours, now, as he had been driving back from that Conference in Dallas. He looked around for help. But. there was no one in sight. He drew a deep breath, reached down, and picked up the young girl in his arms. Looking down at her face, recognition flickered in his head. This was Denise! Denise Whitaker, he realized! With little difficulty, he made his way to the truck with the limp body in his arms, and somehow, managed to get the pickup door opened. He deposited her gently on the seat, still with no response. His mind full of questions, he went around, and got into the driver's seat. Well, regardless of why she was out here, alone, at this time of night, he had to take her somewhere! She couldn't be left out here! It wouldn't take long to get to town, and somehow. he'd have to get her home. But, where in this small town did she live? Well, surely, he could find someone who knew! Or. perhaps, he should take her to the hospital, or to the police station. Was she running away from home? But, no. she had been running toward home! Remembering, he knew he had not seen a vehicle parked on the side of the road before spotting the girl. He had seen no wreck. How did she get way off out here, anyway? Puzzled, he glanced over at her. trying to decide what situation had put her in his charge. She didn't appear to be injured, he decided. Just a slight movement of her hand on the seat next to him told him she was coming around. Again, he began to speak to her, softly, "It's alright, Denise, you're safe, now. Don't be afraid. It's gonna be OK." In the dim light from the dash, he saw her slowly, fearfully, open her eyes, and look up at him. Relief showed in her face, as she recognized her captor! "Denise, are you OK? Are you hurt in any way? He asked in a gentle, caring voice. Those words must have been the straw that broke the camel's back, thought Roger, as a seeming dam of tears broke loose in loud sobs, racking her entire body. He tried to comfort her. saying, "It's OK. Denise, just go ahead and cry. Get it all out. It's gonna be alright. We're almost home, now."

The lights of town were now clearly visible. Her loud sobs continued, as he reached out. and put his hand over hers to comfort her. She grabbed hold of it, and it was as if she were holding on for dear life, Roger thought to himself. Roger's heart flooded with compassion for this poor child. Inwardly, he prayed for guidance. "Lord, please show me how to help her. Let your love flow through me, let your words comfort her. help her, through me. I need your wisdom. Lord, to help this child. Thank you. Lord." He pulled up to a small convenience store, just on the edge of town. thanking God it was still open, and parked in the well- lit parking area. Turning off the ignition, he turned toward Denise, patiently waiting for her sobs to subside. He thought about all he knew of this young girl. Well. she wasn't that much younger than him. but he felt ages older! She had been coming to Sunday School even before he had started teaching it, he supposed, and she usually came quite regularly. But, she had never seemed really interested, it was more like she was performing a duty. He had tried to reach her heart with the good news of the Gospel, but, seemingly, to no avail. She was always very cooperative with his requests, but there had never been the sparkle of understanding in her eyes. "Denise, can you tell me what happened out there? You don't have to, you know. But. I'd really like to know." He waited. Wiping her eyes with the back of her hands, like a little child, she said with a trembling voice, "Oh. Mr. Thompson, it's been awful!" I was so scared!" Then the loud sobs started coming again. He leaned over to the glove compartment, took out a small box of tissues, and handed it to her. "Call me Roger, OK?" Again, he waited, patiently, for Denise to regain her composure. "Do you want to tell me where you live, so I can take you home? Or, should you call home, first? How can I help you, Denise?' 'Oh, if you wouldn't mind. I live at 2204 Walnut, on the east side of town. I'm afraid my folks are going to be terribly worried! You see, I was supposed to have been home by midnight. What time is it?" "Only a quarter to one. You're not too late," Roger said, smiling.

"I went with my boyfriend to a graduation party here in town, and he had too much to drink, and there was a big fight at the party, and we left, and he was driving too fast. Reckless, too. And we had an argument about that, and he left me out there on the side of the road!" Her words came between sobs, as she related the story. "Where do you think he is now?" questioned Roger, with concern in his voice. "He said he was going to the county line to get more beer," Denise answered quietly, the tears continuing down her cheeks. "The way he was driving, I'm afraid he'll wreck his car, maybe even kill himself!" "Do you mind if I pray for him? Will you agree with me, according to Matthew 18:19? It says that if any two agree as touching anything on earth, it will be done by the Father which is in Heaven." Denise nodded her head, with a doubtful look on her face. Roger didn't worry about that, though, as he had confidence in his God! Perhaps, Roger thought, the Lord was going to be able to work something really good out of this terrible circumstance! He reached out for her hand, and with a questioning look on her face, she allowed him to take it. He bowed his head. "Father, we agree according to Matthew 18:19 for your protection over Denise's boyfriend tonight. Surround him with your angels, Lord, and bring him home safely. Reveal your love to him. Lord, because I know you love him. "And Father, I ask that you reveal to Denise how very much you love her! Heal her hurts. Lord, and bless her. And if it should be that she's not ever really accepted the sacrifice of your son, Jesus, for her sins, I pray that she will be drawn by your Holy Spirit to do so, that she may be adopted into the family of God, just as I have been. In Jesus' name. Amen." He immediately loosed her hands, and started the car. "Now, I'd better get you home, before your parents get really do get worried. Don't you worry about your boyfriend, though. He's in the Lord's hands, now!" Denise stood at the door of her house and watched Roger drive away. The porch light was on. Apparently, everybody was sleeping.

Glancing over to Jon's driveway, she noted his car was still not there. With a heavy sigh, she unlocked the door, and silently crept in, feeling so glad to be home. Safe at last. As she quickly, and silently undressed, and climbed into her big, soft bed, she meditated on the things she had heard and experienced. Hardly knowing what to make of it all, she allowed the things Roger had said to roll over and over in her mind. Was he right? Was there really a God? Could you really ask for things like protection, and really put your trust in it? Denise was aware of a great tiredness from the strain and anxiety of the whole day. And still she hadn't resolved the questions inside her head. Well. she would try to sort it out tomorrow, she decided, drowsily.

DECISIONS...
Chapter 9

Denise awakened, lazily, and looked around her room. It was bright from the curtain filtered sunlight. Everything looked the same as when she had left to go to the graduation services. But so much had happened since then! The birds chirped loudly outside her window and she could hear the sounds of Mom busying around in the kitchen, the washer and dryer going, and the sound of cartoons on the living room television. Amazing, Denise thought, that after a day like yesterday, and a night like last night, it seemed to be just another Saturday morning. She must have slept quite late, Denise realized, suprised that Mom had not awakened her to get started with her chores. Then, with full realization of all that had happened last night, she jumped out of bed, and rushed to her window. There it was! Jons' car was at home, all in one piece too! Relieved, she thought of Mr. Thompson, Rogers', prayer. Did God really hear, and answer that prayer, or was it as Mom had said in the past, "Probably just coincidence." How could anyone know? Denise wondered. But she

was so glad Jon was safe. Of course, after last night, things would never be the same. How could she ever trust Jon again, after the way he had left her stranded, in the middle of nowhere, and in the darkness! She remembered the desolation she had felt, out there all alone, with the lightening flashing, and the coyotes howling! And the fear that had overtaken her as she realized the approaching vehicle was not Jons'! But, that wasn't really Jon! Not her Jon! That was all that beer he had drank, Denise reasoned to herself. Jon would never have acted like that, or talked to her that way, if he hadn't been drunk! But, now that the celebrating was over, she wouldn't have to worry about that anymore, she decided. But what about that girl with the beige slippers? The redhead? Could there have been any truth in what she had overheard? Surely not! Jon just wasn't that type - or was he? Who was she anyway? Quietly, Denise got out of bed again, and found her yearbook. Thumbing throught the pages, she found Jon's class pictures, and after a few moments located the girl's picture- Jessie Arnold. Yes, that was her! But was she the one who had been doing the bragging? Or the one listening? Denise couldn't be sure, since she didn't get close enough at the party to hear her voice. Well, somehow, she'd have to find out, Denise concluded. Not that she didn't trust Jon, she reasoned, she just didn't want anyone spreading rumors. Of course, thats what it was - just an envious girl, bragging about something that never happened! That had to be it! Denise put on her robe and house slippers, brushed through her hair and headed to the kitchen. Mom was mixing something in a large bowl. Denise poured a glass of milk and sat down at the table. "Good morning, Mom." Doris looked up. "Morning, Denise. Did you and Jon have a good time last night? You were sleeping restlessly when I looked in on you this morning. I didn't have the heart to wake you up since you were out late last night, anyway." "Uh, yeah, the party was, uh, real interesting." Denise smiled, looking away, wondering what Mom would say if she knew all the details! "Thanks for letting me sleep late." But there was no reason for her to

know, Denise decided. Mom and Dad trusted Jon, and there was no reason to spoil it! Especially, since it had all worked out alright. Denise noticed that Mom gave her a strange look after her reply, but said nothing about it. Well, she made it through that, at least for now, she thought, gratefully. It was late in the afternoon when the phone rang. Todd answered the call, then handed it to Denise. "Its Jo-on", Todd said teasingly. Denise hastily took the phone. She had been anxious to hear from him. "Hello." Denise said into the mouthpiece, without the emotional turmoil she was feeling inside. Just play it cool, she told herself. "Hi, Denise. Are you O.K.?" Jon asked, sounding very humble, unsure of himself, for once, Denise thought sarcastically. "I wasn't sure you would even accept a call from me after last night. But, I'm glad you did." "Sure, I'm fine. How about you?" she asked casually. Her heart was racing, but she dared not let him know. "Well, I'm not feeling too good, right now, but I guess that's from too much celebratin*. huh!" Jon said, trying to make light of the situation. Then seriously, "Uh, Denise, I don't remember too much about what happened last night. But I think I treated you pretty bad. I was really worried about you when I woke up this morning. How did you get home?" He sounded very repentant, Denise thought, which was very unusual for him! But, she knew he wasn't really like that monster she had been with last night. To prevent the information reaching Mom or Toads' ears, she cupped her hand around her mouth, directing her quiet voice into the receiver. "It was OK. My Sunday School teacher picked me up and brought me home. He was real nice to me." There was no use in making Jon feel worse by telling him how upset and frightened she had been, she decided. She loved him too much! And he had suffered enough already. "Well, I've got a really bad headache, and now that I know you're

O.K., I'm gonna see what I can do for my head. You know, if anything had happened to you last night, I'd never be able to forgive myself. But, if you're sure you're OK, then I'll call you later, alright?" "Sure, Jon. Bye." Denise replied sweetly, thinking Nancy would never have let Mark off the hook that easily. But then, Nancy wasn't really in love with Mark! This was different, she thought, as she sorted her feelings. She remembered a scripture she had learned once in Vacation Bible School. "Love covers a multitude of sins." Yes, love could take care of anything, she thought, happily, as she went back to her chores. Jon would call later, when he was feeling better, she told herself, and he would make up for last night and everything would be good again. She smiled as she put the iron to her jeans, leaving a sharp crease in the leg of the pants. Denise let her mind wander as she did her weekend chores. It was summer, already, the sun was starting to shine bright, a pleasant sight after all the rain and storms they had been having. Jon would soon be going off to college for the summer, and then again for the fall. What was she going to do while he was gone? It sure looked like it was going to be a boring summer. Completing her assigned tasks, she decided to give Nancy a call. Having been so busy with Jon the last few weeks, she had had little time for her other friends. Of course, they had been busy, too, she knew. Perhaps this summer would give them time to get together and have some fun. That could be something to look forward to. "Nancy! This is Denise. Were you busy?" "Oh, no. Haven't been out of bed very long," Nancy replied, stifling a yawn. "What have you been up to? Did you and Jon go to the graduation party? I'll bet you had fun! I can't wait to go to Mark's graduation party next year. That is, if we're still seeing each other by then." "Oh, sure. We went to the other party, you know, out at Gloria Benson's house. It was wild! I'll have to tell you about it sometime! But, what about you and Mark? Having problems?" "Oh, you know, just the same old thing. Mark has to work at the gas station all the time, it seems, and all hours. Doesn't leave much time for fun. It gets really boring going places by myself or with Angela and some of the other girls. But, we've been seeing each other nearly six

months, now. I don't know what's gonna happen. I really think the world of Mark, but Kevin Dixon has been really friendly to me , lately, and you know what a hunk he is! If he ever asked me out, I'd just have to go, you know? Anyway, that's probably not likely to happen. I'm just daydreaming, huh." "Who knows. It could happen. But, I know it would break Mark's heart if you broke up with him. I think he really loves you. And he's such a nice guy. I'd hate to see him hurt. But, Kevin is really cool. And he is so funny!" "Yeah, I know! Oh, have you heard that Angela's engaged to Rick Summers? They're supposed to get married next June. She's already planning the wedding. I'll bet she asks you to be a bridesmaid or something. Don't you think?" "Hey, that'll be neat. I heard she was dating him, but I didn't know it was serious. I'll have to give her a call. I've sure got a lot to catch up on, since I've been so busy with Jon, lately. I've really missed all y'all. But Jon's leaving for college in two weeks, so we'll have plenty of time to catch up then. I've really been dreading spending this summer alone, but maybe it won't be so bad. And Jon will be coming home every weekend, anyway." "Gosh, I didn't know he was going to summer school. How come? Why doesn't he wait for the fall semester?" Nancy questioned. "Well, he wasn't really wanting to go to college, but his parents are really crazy about it, so he decided the sooner he went, the sooner he would get out. You know how guys are. It doesn't really make sense to me, but that's what he's planning to do. And he's already enrolled and everything. Oh, Nancy, Todd's standing here having a fit to use the phone, so I guess I'd better go. I'll talk to you later, O.K.? Call me sometime. Bye. Hanging up the phone, and giving Todd a dirty look, Denise headed for her room. Putting a favorite cassette tape in the stereo, she began thinking about Angela. Getting married! That would be so neat. Wondering if she would indeed be asked to be in the wedding party, she let her mind go even further to thoughts of her wedding day. Would she and Jon be married, someday? After he finished college, perhaps? Denise Rivers. That name had a strange ring to it. But, she could get used to it, she decided.

SUMMER'S CHANGES
Chapter 10

Jon assisted Denise out of his car. They had just finished a wild game of tennis at the Country Club, and of course, he had won. Denise smiled, thinking he might not have if she hadn't slacked off a few times deliberately, but he was so handsome when he felt proud of himself, a little cocky she thought, but handsome! They walked up to the porch and Jon held the door open for her. "Surprise!" shouted the group of her friends and family. Caught off guard, Denise just stood there looking around as everyone was talking, laughing, blowing party whistles, and acting silly! A surprise birthday party! She had not expected this as her birthday was not until Monday, but she was very excited. How had they pulled this off without her getting suspicious? But, it was a wonderful treat to have all her friends over for the fun! Jon had returned from college for the weekend and now Denise realized that, of course, Mom would have planned the party so he could be here. She had missed Jon so much. It seemed months since he had been home last, but actually it had only been two weeks. It sounded simple enough, when Jon had told her he would be home from school every weekend, but, it hadn't panned out that way. He had so much homework, so many tests, and he just couldn't study at home, he had told her, not knowing she was just next door. He had been very sweet about it all, and came home every chance he got, but, of course, he had to make good in school. His whole future depended on it! The cake and punch were delicious, as well as beautiful, and Denise lavished praise on her mom and Vickie, Jon's mother, for a job well done! But of all the surprises, Denise was most shocked when Dad walked in the room and handed her a set of car keys.

"Now that you're sixteen and can get your unrestricted drivers license we figured you might could use a car! Besides your Mother is tired of accompanying you back and forth to the hospital." Dad laughed as he hugged his ecstatic daughter. Denise had signed up as volunteer at the local hospital to avoid idle time while Jon was away, after she returned from cheer- leading camp. She had learned to feel kind of "at home" at the hospital when Dad was there, and at Nancy's suggestion that they do volunteer work together, Denise had jumped at the chance. Running out the front door, followed by a procession of laughing, shouting friends and family, Denise spotted a metallic lavender Volkswagon convertible with a large white bow on the hood. It was just darling! "It's second-hand, but it's as good as new. and it'll get good gas mileage too." Dad pointed out. Denise hugged him hard as tears filled her eyes, then went to Mom and gave her a big hug and kissed her cheek. "Oh, thank you Mom, Dad! I love it!" Denise shouted as she walked around her new car, gently touching the shiny finish. She was so proud of it. Her folks were absolutely the greatest, she thought to herself. Jon was standing nearby and she reached for him, giving him a big hug too. She was so happy! All was right with her world. But the best part was looking into those big, brown eyes of Jon's, and seeing her joy reflected in them. But late Sunday afternoon, she again was saying goodbye to Jon. "I'll call you tonight when I get back to the campus, OK? And I'll be back Friday night, if I possibly can. I miss you so much when I'm gone." Jon was saying with much emotion. He took her in his arms, kissed her tenderly, then released her, got in his car and drove off, waving to her, and his family. Denise stood, as she had each time he had left, trying to restrain her tears, waving, and throwing kisses in his direction. All she could do now was wait for his call.

But that night after supper. Dad approached Denise and Todd with an unexpected proposal. "Your Mom and I have been talking about taking a trip. an extended vacation, before I go back to work at the office. We're thinking about touring Europe. There's a discount available now through a travel agency, and we'd be gone about a month. What do you two think about it? Do you want to go?" "Gosh, Dad," Todd said. "What about Little League? I made it to the All Star playoffs! I can't miss my games!" "Yeah, and I'm doing volunteer work at the hospital. Of course, I guess I could get out of it if I tried," Denise said thoughtfully. "But I really enjoy doing it. It really seems to make some of the patients feel better!" "Well, if you want to go, either of you or both. you can," Doris spoke up. "But the doctor suggested that Dad have a vacation, a good, long, relaxing one, before he returns to the stress of daily work. And I'm all for it! I can use the rest too! " "We're planning on leaving the last week in July, so we'd be back just before school starts. Its up to you whether or not you want to go along." Tom explained. He looked at Denise, then at Todd. "Just think about it and make up your own minds. That's only a couple of weeks off, you know. You can stay with your grandparents, I'm sure, if you decide not to go. Just then the phone rang, and Denise jumped to get it, sure it would be Jon's call. "OK, Dad, I'll see what I can come up with." "Hello. Oh, Jon, I've been waiting for you to call. What took you so long?" Denise quizzed, jokingly. The next morning Denise drove her new car to the hospital, elated at no longer having to be accompanied by an adult driver. Of course, she would have to go take her driving test to make it all legal. But, she could go right after work. She was so proud to have her own car! Denise met Nancy and some of the other volunteers and nurses in the locker room at the hospital . Everybody was full of excitement, as the night nurses were telling the day crew about a new patient that had been admitted to ICU early this morning, a victim of an apparent one car accident. It appeared that the young woman had been traveling

alone when the wreck happened. No one knew how long she had been injured before being spotted by another traveler, as the car was almost under a large culvert near a seldom traveled highway. The rescuer had called the ambulance. But, no one had found any identification, so she was admitted to ICU as Jane Doe, suffering from blood loss, head injuries and a fractured leg. She continued to remain unconscious. "Bet she went to sleep while she was driving," Nancy surmised. "Do they think she'll pull through?" Denise asked curiously. "Well, Sheila, the aide on the second floor, was saying earlier that the nurse on duty told her it could be pretty serious, but they're hopeful. "Its awful that they can't let her family know about the accident!" Denise said, remembering the anxiety her family had experienced when Dad was sick, but, not to know would be much worse. "They said the car was so badly smashed front and back, they couldn't find a trace of identification, no wallet, license plates, nothing! But. I'm sure they'll keep looking." "Yeah, well, maybe she'll come to and tell us who she is." Denise said, feeling deep sympathy for the woman and her unknowing fami1y. As the elevator came to a halt on the fourth floor of the old hospial. Nancy and Denise began making their way to the nurses' station to check the patient list. (With some patients, you could go in, visit briefly, offer a magazine and run errands, but some were not to be disturbed.) They spoke cordially to the nurses, aides and housekeepers as they passed them in the hall. Everyone was always so busy, especially in the mornings. "Guess what!" Denises* mind returned to last night's discussion. "What?" Nancy replied, seeing Denise was being dramatic. "I have a chance to tour Europe this summer if I want to go. Think I should?" "Do I think you should go to Europe? Are you crazy? You'd have to be

out of your mind to pass up a chance like that! Who's going? Give me the details! Can I go, too?" Nancy said excitedly. "Well, the doctor suggested Dad take a long vacation before returning to work so Mom and Dad decided to go to Europe. They got some kind of special deal through a local travel agency, and they'll be gone about a month and get back just before school starts. But Todd's in Little League with All Star playoffs coming up soon, and I'm doing the volunteer work and--" "And you can't stand to think about being away from Jon for a whole month! That's what's bothering you, isn't it?" asked Nancy, knowingly. "Well, yeah, that's a big part of it! But I think I'd really miss my volunteer work, too. I'll have to quit when school starts anyway, but I haven't decided yet what I'm gonna do. I do think it'll be good for Mom and Dad to get away. Of course, I can stay with either of my grandparents if I decide not to go. I don't know. I just haven't decided yet. I'll talk to Jon about it this weekend, though." They were waiting at the nurses* station for the lists, but everyone was busy right now. "So", Nancy began, "did you ever find out anything more about that red-head with the beige pumps?" Denise laughed. They had talked that scene over and over and had discussed every possible angle, still knowing no more than they did at the first! But, Denise had avoided the subject of what had happened graduation night. She couldn't confide in anybody about that. Besides, she had forgiven Jon, anyway. "No, not yet! Guess I'll just have to ask Jon about it sometime. Of course, there's no absolute quarantee I'd get the truth, but I don't know any better way. But, I'm not really even concerned about it anymore. Jon has been a perfect angel." "Yeah, but you haven't seen much of him since he went off to college, and he went pretty soon after graduation." Nancy reminded her. "Well, I'm sure that he cares about me! Everytime we're together he proves it to me!" Denise said smuggly. "I know, I just love that necklace he gave you for your birthday. Expensive, I'll bet."

"You better believe it! I looked in an exclusive catalog from the store where they do a lot of shopping the other day, not that it would matter if it wasn't, you know. I'd still love it, because Jon gave it to me. I was just curious because I know he can't really afford much on his allowance and with all his college expenses, and everything. But the necklace was in there, all right, and it's worth a pretty penny!" A nurse appeared in front of them, handed them a list each and they went separate directions, leaving the magazine cart in the hall, pushed out of the way. Time to get my mind back on these poor, sick people, Denise thought, as she walked down the hall to #1 on the list. The hours passed quickly and Denise gathered her things to leave. She still had to take that drivers' test, drat it! But, at least she could do it in her new car. Her heart swelled with pride, and thankfulness that Mom and Dad had given her a car, and that particular car, too! She didn't know of another person in town who had one like it. That made it really special! Oh! Denise remembered the early morning accident victim. She wanted to find out about her condition before she left. She walked back to the elevator on her way to the ICU nurses' station. "Can you give me any information about the woman brought in early this morning? I feel so sorry for her, being just a Jane Doe, and not having her family here or anything." Denise explained. "I understand," the nurse said, "I can tell you that she is still listed in serious condition, but no longer is critical. She hasn't yet regained consciousness, but she hasn't worsened." "Thanks, I really appreciate it!" Denise could go her way now. It sounded like there was just the slightest improvement in the poor lady's condition. Denise headed home a little while later in her little car, joyful that she had passed the driving test without difficulty. She thought about Jon. He would probably be in his room right now studying for a test or preparing a thesis, poor guy! Boy, did she miss him! Doris was just finishing preparations for supper as Denise walked in. "Need me for anything. Mom?" "Well, you could finish setting the table if you're not too tired. How was your day at the hospital?" Doris asked

with interest. Denise told her Mom all about the Jane Doe accident with deep feeling. Doris understood and voiced similiar feelings of sympathy for the woman. Doris explained to Denise how proud she was of her, and that she was so pleased at how she was growing into a fine, caring young lady. Denise glowed from the inside out. She really did love to please people, especially the people she was close to. Some of her friends counted that a fault. They said you shouldn't care what people thought, but she just couldn't feel right about that way of thinking. Of course, you couldn't please everybody all the time, but it just felt good when it happened. "You know. Mom, I've been doing a lot of thinking about that trip to Europe. If I go, I'd have to get my school clothes and supplies all ready before I left, because there probably wouldn't be time when I got back, and I'll have cheerleading practices just as soon as school starts back, and I can just imagine how tired I'd be, only having a week or less before starting back to school! And I know I'd miss Jon terribly while I was gone, besides having to give up the work at the hospital a month early. I've only been there a short time anyway," Denise explained. "So, have you decided not to go?" Mom queried. "Not for sure, but I'm thinking it's been a long time since I visited Nana and Papa, you know. We haven't seen much of them in quite a while, and I always loved visiting out at the farm. Now that I have my car, it wouldn't be any problem to get in to the hospital. I thought I might go out and visit them after supper tonight just to feel it out. What do you think?" "Well, I know they'd love to see you! They've always been very fond of you and Todd, since you're their only grandchildren. But you know how Mother and Dad are so set in their ways. I miss them a lot myself, but everytime we got together the last few years they always started preaching to me. You know how fanatical they are!" Doris replied. "Maybe you can handle it, but I can't." "Mom, there are some things about that I don't understand. Do you believe the Bible is true?" Denise asked hesitantly. She didn't want to open any old wounds, but if you couldn't ask your own Mom, who could you ask? "Well, the Bible is a very, very old book, Denise, and there are a lot of

really wise sayings in there, you know. But, I have a lot of problems with some of the things in there, like prophecies. Who could understand it all! What kind of God would threaten you with burning in hell, if he was really a loving God? Look at all the misery in the world today! If God really loved the world as the Bible says, looks to me like he'd make some drastic changes. I don't know that I'm right about it Denise, I was certainly raised to believe the Bible was true, "every jot and tittle" of it, as Mom used to say. Now, I have alot of questions. What made you ask about this anyway?" "Oh, just something Roger, I mean, Mr. Thompson, said in Sunday School. He told us that the Bible says, well, actually, we read the verse together, that says the Bible is the inspired Word of God, you know, written by men who were inspired by the Holy Spirit or something like that. He believes that you have to believe all of it, or none of it. He says if any of it isn't true, then God's a liar, and if he lies, then the whole book is a lie! Anyway, its' not important. I was just wondering." Denise trailed off, trying to figure it all out. The table was all set, and supper was ready. Todd and Dad should be back from their little shopping trip any minute. Denise thought as she looked out the dining room window. What was keeping them? She ran up to change clothes while she was waiting, still thinking about their discussion. How could one know what was right? Denise changed into a pair of comfortable shorts with a loose-fitting knit shirt, put on some jogging shoes and slouch socks. Now, that feels better! She smiled to herself. Better give Nana a call and see for sure if it was all right to come out right after supper. She might just spend the night, she thought, knowing Mom and Dad wouldn't mind. Why haven't I done this before, Denise wondered? Just hadn't thought about it before, she concluded.

THE FARM
Chapter 11

The late evening sun appeared to be playing hide-and- seek with the earth, causing long shadows from the trees to appear, then soften to nothingness on the narrow dirt road to the farm. Denise, comfortably

seated in the still "new" little convertible, relaxed as the breeze combed through her long. softly curled hair. The stereo was playing a tender love song and Denise began to sing along. The many questions that had occupied her mind gently subsided, the questions she dared not actually face, were pushed into the background. The farm on which her grandparents lived wasn't far from home, but driving on the narrow dirt roads gave one a lot of time to relax and think pleasant thoughts, Denise realized. Maybe it would be good to make this drive often. It seemed to make one feel more positive about life, Denise thought, as she watched a small cottontail rabbit scampering across the road not far ahead. It's just so peaceful out here, she thought. So different from the house in town or at the hospital. To her left, she noticed a lightly wooded area that she recognized as the beginning of Papa's farm. It looked so pretty, as if it were a painting done by a master artist, especially with the low, fading sun. What a perfect place for an afternoon picnic! Yes, that's it! We'll have to have a picnic out here, me and Jon, soon! He could meet Nana and Papa. She knew he would love them. Driving up to the small white frame house. Denise noticed a pickup truck in the front drive, a familiar looking truck, but not Papa's. Denise knew Nana and Papa always parked at the back of the house. So whose was it? Probably just a neighbor she had seen in town, she concluded as she pulled to a stop behind it. Looking around the place as she gathered her overnight bag, purse, and keys, she thought warmly how little the place had changed since her childhood when she had often visited here. Many fond memories returned to her mind, making Denise feel childish and giddy, with a sudden excess of energy. She could go horseback riding, and gallop across the fields and pastures or visit the great tank not far from the house, and fish for catfish! It had been a long time since she had tried fishing. Then she remembered the tangles the line usually wound up in, and decided maybe just a long brisk walk would be even better! But, Nana, standing at the door, called out to her as she came near the long white porch. "Oh, honey, I'm so glad you came to visit with us. We've missed you and Todd so much. And I'm glad you came before dark." Denise hugged her grandmother in the doorway. "I have to work

tomorrow and I wanted all the time I could get to visit with you two, so I left right after supper." Nana felt so soft and warm, Denise thought, as they turned to walk into the living room. "Where*s Papa? I haven't seen you two in so long. I wasn't aware of how much I've missed you until this afternoon." Papa stepped around the corner from the kitchen and spied his granddaughter. "Well, there she is! Where have you been keeping yourself, girl. Don't you know you're supposed to come look in on the old folks once in a while?" Papa laughingly scolded her as he hugged Denise tight. "Roger! Here's my pretty, little granddaughter!" Papa called proudly, as he manuevered Denise into the kitchen, and over to the table where, evidently, all had been visiting over cups of coffee. "Hello, Denise. How are you?" Roger asked politely, looking directly into her brilliant, sky blue eyes. "Oh, fine, Roger. I didn't recognize your truck out there." Denise lowered her gaze with embarassment, realizing she should have known that truck immediately, since she had not long ago ridden in it. A flush crept up into her cheeks at the memory of that awful night. "I've been missing you in Sunday School, lately. Everything OK?" "Yeah, it's just that I'm doing volunteer work at the hospital all week, and my boyfriend is at college and only comes down on weekends." Denise answered, looking around, searching anxiously for a change of subject. It was amazing that Mom and Dad finally had got off her case about going to Church all the time. Denise decided they had considered how little time she had with Jon, with him away so much. But, lately, there had been opportunities for her to attend Church, when Jon couldn't make it down, and she still hadn't been forced to go. It had been really neat, too, to have the whole Sunday to goof off, at least, until Roger mentioned it. Was this guilt she was feeling? And why should she feel guilty? "How about a glass of milk, Denise?" Nana asked, standing at the refrigerator in readiness.

Grateful for a new topic, Denise accepted the offer, turning to Papa seated at her left. "Have you been fishing lately. Papa? I was trying to remember how long it's been since I've gone fishing. A long time I know." Papa proceeded to tell about some of the fishing he and Denise had done when she was young, and progressed to his latest catches, always demonstrating the size of the fish with his hands spread apart, and Nana reminded him, laughingly, that he was always prone to exaggerate! Denise and Roger joined in the fun and laughed as the large hands came somewhat closer together at the demand for truth! During the visit, amid the laughter, Denise noticed the changes since she last had really looked at Nana and Papa. Nana's hair was mostly gray, now, Denise thought, where it was formerly a salt and pepper color. She looked slightly more rounded than she remembered, more grandmotherly. Denise remembered how comfortable her lap had been as Nana had rocked her as a young child, too old to be rocked probably, but rocked nonetheless. Papa seemed to have changed the least. His shoulders were now slightly stooped, and he was perhaps thinner than she remembered. His hair had been white for years, and his skin now was a leathery brown with pleasant, long, laugh lines. Such a dear man, Denise thought to herself. Papa and Roger had somehow gotten on the subject of cows, Denise realized, as her attention returned to the conversation. As she listened to them, good-naturedly arguing about the quality of the different breeds of cattle, her mind again began to wander. Why had she never noticed Roger's hazel eyes, with the brown specks on the green background, or the mysteriously long, dark eyelashes that looked as though they should belong to a girl? His hair was a medium brown with red highlights, and the overhead light danced on his hair with the movement of his head, while he was deep in conversation. Stylishly cut. and brushed away from his face, it perfectly complimented his boyish oval face. His straight, white teeth, (which did not remind you of braces), fitted perfectly with his small, but very attractive smile. And the muscles in his arms! They were accentuated by the T-shirt he wore. Denise realized she had never seen him in casual clothes before. She had never really looked at him

before! Well, who ever pays attention to their Sunday School teacher anyway, especially when there's someone like Jon around! Roger was good-looking, Denise admitted to herself, but he couldn't compare with Jon! Besides, he was too old for her, and probably a fanatic at that. "I read in the paper that you made cheerleader, again, Denise." Nana said, interrupting her train of thought. "Yeah, and we already went to camp right after school was out. We learned a lot of new routines, but the head cheerleader this year, you know Joyce Peterson, don't you, she's really bossy! I don't know how it's gonna work out, but maybe we can get along until the season's over. I hope so anyway." Denise responded doubtfully. Oh, yes, that's Mike Peterson's daughter isn't it?" "Yeah, that's her. She's pretty nice, and she's good at the moves and all, but I can't stand the way she tries to take over everything. She's always been that way of course, but last year wasn't so bad. Now that she's Head though, it could be a real pain!" Denise confided. "Sounds like maybe we need to pray about that. You know, the Lord can handle this girl, Joyce, don't you think, Roger?" Papa challenged, teasingly. "I sure do, Charlie. I haven't found a problem too simple or too big for Him to handle," Roger answered with a twinkle in his eyes. "You're kidding me, aren't you?" Denise asked laughingly. "You wouldn't really pray about a thing like that, would you?" A curious look came into her eyes as she was seriously trying to understand this thing. "You bet child!" Papa answered enthusiastically. "You know, the Lord said to ask and receive, that our joy may be full! We have to be careful not to ask selfishly, of course, or to pray for things that are out of line with the will of God. But strife between friends is not God's will, and if we ask, I believe we can trust him to take care of it." "The Bible says that where there is strife and confusion, there is every evil work. So you know that God is not pleased with that," Roger added.

Nana sat quietly listening, but nodded in agreement as Denise looked from one to the other incredulously, still not convinced they all weren't just 'pulling her leg*. "You sound really serious about that," she replied hesitantly. "Oh, we are," Papa reassured her with a twinkle still in his eye, and the smile about his lips, that left still a small doubt as to his sincerity. Roger took it from there. "According to Matthew 18:20, the Lord is right here with us," he said as he took her hand unoffensively. "He said that whatsoever we ask believing shall be done for us. Is it OK if we just pray right now?" Denise nodded, a curious light remaining in her eyes. How could he be so sure about these things, she wondered, and Nana and Papa seemed convinced,too. Wishing she could be sure, too, without being a fanatic, she bowed her head as Roger prayed a brief prayer asking that God intervene in the situation and bring peace and joy into the relationship instead of the strife that seemed inevitable, closing with, "That You may be glorified, and our joy be full, in Jesus name. Amen." Looking up, Roger announced since it was getting late and they all had to get up early tomorrow morning, he'd better get home. Something quickened within Denise, as if she hated to see him go, but quickly rejecting that feeling, she thanked him again, refusing to hold his gaze. Soon after Roger left, Denise made her way to the guest bedroom for the night. Papa followed behind her in the little hall, turning out the lights as they went. "Sleep well, Denise," Nana called from the master bedroom. "You too, Nana. Goodnight Papa," Denise said as she turned and hugged Papa at the door of her bedroom. "The Lord gives his beloved sleep, so enjoy it Denise. See you bright and early in the morning," Papa said sweetly as he released his granddaughter. "Am I His beloved?" Denise asked herself quietly in the darkness of the night, feeling the cool breeze from the east window, open in the room.

Pulling up the cover and making herself comfortable on the soft cotton mattress of the bed, she quickly drifted off, peacefully to sleep. JANE DOE Chapter 12

Denise awakened to a knock on her door, followed by Papa's mellow voice calling, "Denise! Arise, shine for thy light is come! What a strange way to wake up, Denise thought. Where had she heard that before? In Sunday School or Church probably, she concluded, with a smile. At least her grandparents were consistant! "Thanks, Papa. I'll be up in a minute," Denise replied sleepily. "Better hurry, breakfast is almost ready," he said at the closed door. Denise layed still for a moment enjoying the almost too cool early morning breeze. Not far away, a rooster was crowing almost continuously, and birds were singing merrily nearby, probably in the old oak tree beside the window. Denise decided. And off in the distance she heard the sounds of a cow mooing. The sounds of country life! Peaceful, restful sounds, she thought, as she stretched her limbs to awaken her still restful body. Hurriedly, she climbed out of bed, proceeding with her overnight bag to get ready for the day. Only a shower could really get her going first thing in the morning. And this would probably be another busy day at the hospital. The smell of sausage, waffles, and maple syrup drifted down the hall to stimulate her senses. As quickly as possible, she made her way to the source of the delightful scents. Oops! She had almost taken her first bite as she heard Papa start to pray. Quickly bowing her head and slowly lowering her fork, she reminded herself of the long-forgotten custom of prayer before meals. But, after all, this was the only house that she knew that still practiced the tradition. Still, it lended a unity, a peacefulness to the atmosphere, Denise decided. Whether it helped anything else or not, it was kind of pleasant.

But with hasty, loving good-byes, she soon was driving off to start her day at the hospital, wondering as she went, about the Jane Doe patient. Arriving at the old style, red-brick hospital, Denise hastily put her things away, signed in and headed for ICU. "Hi! Can you give me the latest information on the Jane Doe patient?" Denise asked the nurse in charge. "Have they found out who she is yet? Is she still unconscious?" Breathlessly, she managed to get all these questions out, the deep interest, and concern shining in her eyes. "You're a volunteer here, aren't you?" the nurse asked, hesitant to give out confidential information. It was a different nurse than the one who had helped her before. "Yeah," Denise said, understanding her reluctance. "You see, since nobody knows who she is, she doesn't have anybody but us to be concerned about her. So I just feel like somebody should be interested, you know?" Her blue eyes were begging the nurse to understand her concern. "Well, we still don't know who she is, but the police are checking all the missing persons reports to match her description. Surely, they'll have a clue soon. But her condition appears stable. She's still comatose, but her EEG, the brain wave test, shows her brain is still very active." "So, what do you think that means?" asked Denise, wanting to know all she could about the patient's situation. "Well, the doctor thinks perhaps the accident was so terrifying that she is subconsciously blocking out the pain, the knowledge of what happened to her. Who knows? The injuries to her head appear superficial. Minor, really. Her left leg had a compound fracture but there was no problem with the reduction, I mean, setting of the fracture. The doctor can't find a medical reason for her coma. Her vital signs were stablized soon after she was brought in." "Do you think maybe I could see her? I wouldn't disturb anyone, really. It would just help if I could see the woman that I've been so concerned about." Denise was getting her hopes up, along with the nerve to ask the question, aware of the ICU visiting rules, immediate family only. But, since the patient's family wasn't here, perhaps...,and

the nurse seemed really nice, but conscientious. "Well. I can't see that it would hurt anything, for just a minute, you understand." The nurse turned to the inner door, and motioned Denise to follow her.She led Denise to the third cubicle on the left. So this is Jane Doe, Denise thought, observing the young- looking woman. She had several small dressings on her face. The heart monitor above her was registering frequent, but regular beeps. An IV was hooked to her left hand. Her left leg was in a cast suspended in air by a traction set-up. She looked as though she was sleeping soundly. Her short blonde hair was brushed away from her face, which looked awfully pale, Denise thought, nearly as white as the sheets. Wondering who this could be, what her real name was, what her life had been like. if she had a family, where she lived and where she had been going, Denise followed quietly after the nurse back to the nurses* station. "She is so pretty, even with the bandages. How old would you guess her to be?" Denise questioned curiously. "I don't know, perhaps 25, or maybe older. It's hard to say. But I'll bet when the dressings are off, and the swelling has gone down, you know, after the wounds have healed, she'll be one beautiful lady." "Thanks for letting me go in, I really do appreciate it. I feel much better about her now, and I'm sure she'll 'come around' anytime now." "The doctor said that if she continues stable, he'll probably put her in a private room soon, maybe tomorrow. You may want to visit her again, huh?" The nurse looked at Denise with knowing eyes. "Yes, I sure would. I want to see her get through this. I'd like to get to know her, although I'm not really sure just why," Denise said. Thanking her again, she turned to go to her duties, noticing that according to the clock over the nurses' station, she'd better hurry! Sitting around the supper table, back at home that night, she joined in pleasant conversation with Dad, Mom and Todd. Tom had an appointment with the doctor again that day, and was bragging to his family about the good report.

"He said I was just about as "fit as a fiddle", just to keep up the good work, take my medication regularly, walk daily and avoid stress. He just doesn't realize how badly I want to get back to work. This is so boring just sitting at home all the time, and I know Danny needs the help." "Well, after our vacation you can go back to work, and good riddance!" said Doris jokingly. It hadn't been easy for Mom, Denise realized, with Dad underfoot these last few weeks, and it probably would be a relief when her life could return to normal. "Oh, yeah. About the vacation. I had a really cool time out at Nana and Papa's last night. I've about decided to just stay with them while you two "tear up" Europe. Would you be terribly disappointed if I don't go?" Denise blurted out. "Well, if you're sure that's what you want to do," Dad said, glancing at Doris briefly. "Of course, if you don't want to go, Grandma and Grandpa Whitaker would love to have you stay with them." "I know," Denise said, hesitantly. She did love Dad's folks an awful lot. In fact, they came over quite a bit, and the family often visited over there. "But, they live in town, and I'm really looking forward to spending time out on the farm. Besides, I hardly ever see Nana and Papa. Well, I see them at church sometimes, but hardly ever visit with them." "How about Denise staying with Nana and Papa, and I could stay with Grandma and Grandpa Whitaker? That way I'd be close for the games and stuff! I really don't want to miss those All Star games!" Todd said excitedly. "I know. Son, and I'm sure gonna hate missing your games, too. If we could plan it any other way, we would. I want you to know that," Tom explained. "Well, it sounds like we're gonna get a second honeymoon, huh, Tom?" Doris said laughingly. "Well, I don't know about that!" Tom teased.

So it's settled, Denise thought. This way I won't miss Jon when he comes, I can continue work at the hospital, keep up with Jane Doe, and enjoy farm life with Nana and Papa. Tired from the long day, Denise decided to turn in early. She gave Mom and Dad a hug and started for her room. The phone began to ring. Todd ran to answer the phone, and disappointed, called to Denise. Sure it was Jon, she hurried over, but it wasn't him, she four out, as Amanda's little-girl voice came over the line. "Neese, what you doing?" Denise*s heart warmed at the sweet little voice. She did love this little girl, and hadn*t had much time with her lately. She talked with her briefly, amazed that she had called, until Vickie took the phone, explaining she was just teaching Amanda to use the phone in case of emergencies. They talked briefly, then Denise again started for bed. Man, did her legs ache! Soon, she was sleeping soundly, dreaming of Jon beside her in the cool afternoon sunlight, sitting on the grass, shaded by the big trees in the pasture at Nana and Papa's farm.

THE CODE
Chapter 13

What a day! Denise thought, as she hurried to the elevator. It was already past time to check the patients' mail and deliver it. There was always a ton of cards and "Get Well" messages left at the front desk every morning for the patients. And here it was, almost time for lunch break. So much had happened! The elevator door opened, and Denise hastily stepped inside. She squeezed in without noticing the apparent visitors. The day had started out just like any other, she remembered. She had looked in on the Jane Doe patient and found no changes. She was still unconscious, but stable enough, that she was now in a private room. Some of her bandages had disappeared, leaving only small wounds and bruises

which appeared to be healing, but, still no clue as to her identity. Surely, someone had missed Jane Doe by now! Why hadn't someone reported her missing? Then she had begun her rounds, as usual, offering magazines, taking menu choices, writing and mailing letters... But, in room 206, when everything seemed fine, the patient suddenly moaned loudly, grabbed his chest, and fell over! A panic had risen inside Denise as she watched, just for a minute. But, with no response, she quickly pressed the emergency call button. In came the 'code team', and Denise stepped to a far corner, out of their way, horrified. She had watched the immediate, precise actions of the team, as they performed CPR on the patient, and administered medications. The ordeal seemed to take hours. She was very impressed, this being the first 'code* she had ever witnessed. But, eventually, the doctor on duty dismissed the team, saying sadly, "Y'all did good, but you can't win 'em all." He pulled the sheet over the man's head gently. He turned, and seeing Denise standing in the corner, away from the crash cart that was being packed away, spoke with compassion to her. "Hi. Were you the one who called the code?" "Yes," Denise murmured, lowering her eyes with a strange feeling of failure. "You did good." The doctor assured her. "I can tell you acted quickly, and responsibly, but I guess it was just his time to go. We thought we had him about fixed up. Don't get to feeling guilty about it, OK?" He was a very gentle, kind man, Denise thought, as the bell rang on the elevator, and the door opened. As she quickly stepped out, she ran straight into Roger, knocking his Bible out of his hand. The tears began to flood over Denise's cheeks, as she stooped to pick it up. and bumped Roger's head in the process, as he, too, had stooped to pick it up. "I'm so sorry, Roger," Denise said sincerely, wiping away the tears as she stood up. "No problem, Denise. What's going on? Surely you're not that upset about running into me. Are you hurt?" Roger looked deeply into her eyes, as Denise tried to regain her lost composure.

"Oh, its just been a wild day, it's a long story, but 1'11 be alright. Sorry to keep you," Denie responded, choking back the tears. "Well, now, I think maybe you need to talk about it. How about lunch? Do you have time?" Roger asked. "It's nearly time for my break, but I've got to deliver all the patients' mail first," Denise explained, as the tears started coming again. "I really do need to talk to someone, Roger. Maybe I do need to take my break, before I start seeing the patients again. It won't hurt anything, I guess. I only have a thirty minute break, anyway. " "Then let's go to the cafeteria. Maybe you'd better visit the ladies' room first, and wash those tears away. I'll wait for you," Roger said decidedly. A few minutes later, seated in a secluded area in the cafeteria with a delicious-looking meal sitting in front of each, Roger bowed his head humbly, and gave thanks to God for their blessings. Denise followed suit, meekly. Then picking up his fork, he asked, "Now, Denise, what's happened since I last saw you that has upset you so?" "Well, I was in a patient's room, and he asked me to write a letter for him. I got up to pull a chair near his bed, and I just heard him kind of groan real loud, and he grabbed his chest, and his head fell over with his eyes closed, and-and, he was dead!" Denise explained, looking up into Roger's sympathetic eyes. "I called a code, but even they couldn't save him. It's the first time I ever saw anyone die!" "Pretty rough on a young girl like you, huh? Well, let me tell you, its rough on anyone, no matter what. We're never prepared to see someone die, are we? Even if we don't know them. I think it reminds us of our own mortality, don't you?" "Yeah. It was real scary," Denise answered. "I just couldn't go through it again! I'll never forget this, never!" "In I Cor. 10:13 the Lord said He wouldn't suffer you, or permit you to be tempted above what you are able to handle, but will with the

temptation, also make a way to escape, that you may be able to bear it." Roger commented. "And another thing that may help, is if you can understand that the man didn't actually die, not like we think of death, anyway. You see, a person is actually three parts, just like God is three parts. You know, God, the Father, God, the Son, and God, the Holy Spirit. Well, man is a sprit, who has a soul, or the mind, will, and emotion parts, and he lives in a physical body. The man, himself, doesn't really die, because a spirit is eternal. The spirit of man lives forever. What actually happened to your patient, today, is simply that his spirit left his body. And you can't live on this earth without a physical body. But the man is still very much alive, in the spirit world. And our hope is, that he is saved by the blood of Jesus, and if he is, then he will receive a new body, a glorified or heavenly body, essential for living in Heaven, like the one Jesus had after he was raised from the dead. Does that help you to understand it better, or did I just confuse you?" "I don't understand it real well, but, I think I get a little bit of the picture," Denise said, toying with her food. Do you mean the real me will never die, just my body?" "That's right. And if we're a child of God, if we've accepted the salvation that Jesus bought for us by going to the cross, then the death of this body is simply a matter of 'going home'. "You see, Satan is our adversary, our enemy. He used to have the power of death, but Jesus stripped him of that power. The temptation in a situation like this is to fear, instead of having faith in the Lord. Satan has no power over us, once we're saved, unless we give it to him. Does that make sense, the way I've explained it?" Denise, studying Roger's hazel eyes responded hesitantly, "Then how do we give Satan that power? The power that makes us fear?" "Actually, the fear itself is permission for Satan to act, just as our faith is permission for God to act. You just have to believe that the Bible is true, and that every promise in the Bible is true, and that it's all meant just for you. You can resist that fear by faith in God, and it has to flee from you." "But, I can't stand to think about ever seeing anyone die again! I just couldn't handle it!" Denise persisted. "You don't know what it was like, it happened so suddenly, and there was nothing I could do about it!" "I know that we can't avoid the presence of death, it's anywhere,

everywhere! Not just in the hospital, Denise, it's on the street, and in the movie theater, even in Church. It can happen to anyone, anytime. There's nothing bad about death, if you understand it, and are ready for it," Roger continued. Then, glancing at his watch, looked at Denise with frustration. "Can we talk about this later, when we have more time? You're staying out at the farm now while your parents are on vacation. How about if I come over later? Would that be OK?" "Yeah," Denise said, hesitantly. "I do appreciate you taking the time to talk with me. I really needed to talk about it, I guess. I do want to understand, I really do, but I'm not even sure I believe in a God and a devil." Denise said. lowering her eyes. "I just don't know what to believe." Looking up to meet Roger's eyes, she asked sweetly, 'Can you understand?" "Yes, I can, but I believe with the help of the Holy Spirit, I can help you to believe and understand. It's really not hard." "Well, I've really got to get back to my job, but thanks. I'll see you later, then, at Nana and Papa's, OK?" she asked, rising from her chair, her meal only half eaten. Roger, rising politely, agreed. As Denise returned to the front desk to pick up the mail, her mind continued full of unanswered questions, and, for the first time, a dread of visiting her patients.

QUESTIONS...
Chapter 14

After supper, Denise, Nana, and Papa were relaxed in the living room, and instead of watching T.V., as Denise usually did in the evenings, they were listening to a radio program. It was a favorite of her grandparents. Well, Denise wasn't really listening, just letting the words of the speakers go in one ear and out the other, as her mind wandered to various things, and her body relaxed. She had made it through the day without any further trauma, thank

goodness. But the scenes of that morning incident replayed itself through her head many times. Never was she able to figure anything that could have been done differently. Death was just...just so sad, and depressing! What was that? The speaker was saying something about a coma, Denise sat up straight, suddenly intent on hearing what was being said. Amazed, she listened to the end of the program. Then, to make sure her ears weren't playing tricks on her, consulted with her grandparents. "Nana, Papa, did I hear them saying something on the radio about coma patients? Did he say that sometimes a comatose patient may come out of a coma to answer a phone? Is that what you understood?" "That's what the man said, child," Papa said laughingly. "Can you believe that?" "Well, he was making a point about how addicted we are to telephones," Nana stated, trying to clarify the subject. "You know, most people will quit anything they're doing to answer the phone, even climb out of the bathtub!" "But, I'm wondering if he was really serious about the coma stuff. Do you think someone might really come out of a coma if they heard a phone ringing?" Denise asked sincerely. Nana and Papa looked at each other, then, they again looked at Denise. "Well, who knows? It might work," answered Papa. "You're thinking of that 'Jane Doe' patient you told us about, aren't you?" Nana asked. Nana was a perceptive woman, Denise thought. Nodding her head, Denise tried to picture the scene. The bedside phone ringing away in room 314, and Jane Doe, slowly responding, until she was fully awakened, rising up in her bed to answer the phone. Oh, it would be so cool, if it would only work! Denise was beginning to be very excited at the prospect! "You know, Nana and I have been praying for that lady, ever since you told us about her. I'm sure the Lord's hand is upon her, and I believe she will come out of it. The Lord does answer prayer, you know," Papa

stated. "How can you know. Papa? How can you really know for sure?" Denise answered softly, wanting an answer desperately. Her eyes were pleading for an answer that would convince her. "Because the Bible says so, Denise. Jesus himself said to pray to the Father, in the name of the Son, and he said, 'ask and you shall receive'. Of course, we're not to ask out of selfishness, or for the lusts of the flesh, and we're told to pray according to God's will. But, we can know God's will for us and others by studying His Word, and getting to know Him in a personal way," Papa explained. "HAve you ever been saved, Denise? Born again?" "I guess not. Papa. I've heard about it, you know, in Sunday School, and Church, and I'm a member of this Church. I mean, I've been baptized, you know, when I was a kid. But, Mom and Dad, well, you know, they don't believe that stuff much. I'm kind of confused. I don't really know what to believe!" Denise replied, honestly. "I don't want to go against your parents, Denise, but if you're interested, I'll tell you why I believe," Papa said hopefully. "I'd like that. Papa. You and Nana always seem to handle things, and you seem so at peace." Denise caressed each lovingly with her eyes. "Why don't you get my Bible off the bar for me, Denise, and I'll show you. Walking into the kitchen to get the book, Denise heard a motor, looked out the window, and saw that Roger had arrived. A feeling of growing excitement began to build up within her, but she couldn't understand why. Well, he had become a dear friend, in the short time she had been at the farm, she reminded herself! Greetings were exchanged as Roger came in and began to enter into conversation with the family, glancing frequently at Denise. who was rather quiet. "Roger, we were just about to look up some scriptures concerning the authority, and integrity of the Word, as a basis for salvation. Since you're the Teacher, here, why don't you take over?" Papa asked politely.

"Well, I'll tell ya what! Let's get our Bibles out, mine's in the truck, and have a good old-fashioned Bible Study. Got an extra Bible for Denise?" Roger questioned. "Of course, we've got plenty of Bibles," Nana laughed, "and just about all the different versions!" They moved from the comfort of the living room cushions to the closeness, and intimacy of the dining room table. The first priority, Roger and Papa agreed, was to base everything on the principle that, "In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established", according to Deut. 17:6; John 8:17; 2 Cor. 13:1 and Heb. 10:28. Then, with that basis, Roger began to confirm that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, written by over thirty different men, over a period of several centuries, yet the 66 books of the Bible each agree and refer to the others. "An impossibility with human beings. Possible only with an all-wise, all-powerful God," Roger stated. They each looked up scriptures as they continued the study. Denise was amazed at the mounting evidence before her. Surely she had heard all this before, but now it began to make sense to her. She thought of all the times she had been in Sunday School and Church services, and the words she heard had made little sense to her, but, now she realized it was true! Her heart warmed with the knowledge. Next, the scriptures began to show the prophesies in the Old Testament concerning the Messiah, the Christ, and then the fulfillment of the prophesies by Jesus' life, from the virgin birth, to the ascension of Jesus into the heavens. There was no doubt left in Denise's mind. The evidence was clear. Now, what was she going to do about it? Was she ready to make a commitment, after what she'd learned? What about Jon, Mom and Dad? Would they disown her or what? How could she not accept these things as true, now that she'd seen in the book for herself. But to make a commitment to serve this God, well, that was going to be a big decision. Rising from the table, Denise said, "It's getting pretty late, and I've gotta get up early to go to the hospital. I think I'll call it a night. Thanks for the Bible Study. I really learned a lot tonight."

"Well, goodnight. We'll be turning in soon." Nana called out after Denise. In her room, Denise pondered her situation. If only she knew what to do, and what to think! Why was life so complicated? Jon would be down this weekend - why, that was day after tomorrow. Her heart melted at the thought of being with him again. It had been such a long time, Denise felt, though it had only been a couple of weeks. He had called again last Friday night, and they had talked a long time, but he said he had a thesis to write, and tests to study for, and, again, he wouldn't be down that weekend. Denise thought about his dreamy brown eyes, the feel of his arms around her, his body close to hers... The darkness closed in, as Denise made herself comfortable in the big, soft bed, and again her mind wandered to the lady without a name or face who had given birth to her. Did she ever hold her in her arms, close to her body, her own mother? Why does this haunt me, Denise wondered sleepily. Besides, I'll probably never know the answers to these ridiculous questions! Finally, sleep overtook her. Then she began to dream. In her dream, she watched as Jon's car pulled up at an unfamiliar house. He got out, and walked up to the door of the house. Jessie Arnold opened the door, and Jon took her in his arms.Denise became very angry, in her dream, and began to scream, 'No! No! He's mine, mine, do you hear? Jon! Jon, come back to me! But, they ignored her screams, and Jon and Jessie walked arm in arm to Jon's car. as if she didn't exist! Denise awakened in a cold sweat, her heart pounding rapidly in her chest. After a few moments, she realized it was only a dream, or a nightmare! But, why would she dream a thing like that! After all, she had thought it out thoroughly, and decided that the conversation she had overheard that day had been only a wild fantasy. But, what would she do, if Jon was unfaithful to her? She lay awake for a long time, listening to the night sounds, and owl occasionally 'whoing', a cricket singing, the leaves in the big tree next to her window rattling slightly, as an occasional breeze stirred them. Finally, she drifted back into a restless sleep, tossing and turning, awakening briefly, at times, just long enough to tell herself, again, it was only a dream.

THE CALL
Chapter 15

Denise had determined this morning that she would not dwell on her nightmare. It was too ridiculous to even consider. All it meant, anyway, was that she was terribly jealous. So she had begun to focus on Jane Doe, to keep her dream off her mind, since she had begun to make her rounds.It was almost unbelievable, but an air of expectancy followed her wherever she went. Would it really work? Did she dare try it? Would everyone think she was crazy? But, if it worked, what difference would it make? At her first break, Denise went to Jane Doe's room. It was amazing that no one had ever found her purse, or any idenification for the lady. The theory was that perhaps it had been thrown from the car, and maybe an animal had drug it off somewhere. But there hadn't even been any answers, yet, from the missing persons' list. The patient was lying still, supported with pillows, her leg still in traction. No changes in her condition, the nurse had said. It was really crazy, but there was something about her, Denise decided, something almost familiar, as she stood looking over the patient. Denise noted the naturally arched eyebrows, the oval eyes with long lashes, the slightly sharp nose, cupid bow mouth, and softly curving chin. Pretty, she thought. Very pretty. There were no bandages on her face, now, and no swelling. She looked almost like a life- sized porcelain doll. The nurse came in to check her vital signs. "Excuse me. Am I interrupting?" she asked. Denise didn't know this nurse. "No, I just came in for a minute, while I'm on break. I just like to check on her every chance I get. You must be new. I haven't seen you before." Denise stated curiously. "Yes, I am. I'm Maria Marshall. Today's my first day, but I think I'm

gonna love it here," she answered. "It's nice to meet you Maria. I'm Denise Whitaker, just one of the volunteers." "You know, you really look a lot like this lady. Are you related or something?" Maria asked. "Well, that's dumb, of course, since no one knows who she is," she said laughingly. "No," Denise laughed, "but thanks. I think she's really pretty!" "You know, I heard something really strange that has supposedly brought some people out of comas before. I'm really dying to try it, but I'm afraid everyone will think I'm crazy," Denise confided. "Really? What is it? She's been in a coma for some time according to her chart. I think anything that could possibly bring her out of it would be wonderful!" "Well, this guy on a radio talk show, supposedly a psychologist, was talking about how hung up we are, nowadays, on answering the phone, you know? Like, most of us would do anything to answer a phone when it's ringing. He said a lot of times, people will even come out of a coma to answer a phone. Ever heard of such a thing?" Denise asked. "No," Maria laughed, "but it kinda makes sense, especially if there's no physical reason for the coma. You know, it just might work. I can't see how it could hurt to try it," Maria said, thoughtfully. "Would you want to use the phone in the nurse's station?" "I don't know. There's usually several people in there, right around the phone. They'd probably think I was nuts!" Denise responded. "The pay phone is in the waiting room. Why don't we use it? Let's give it a try. Do you have any change for the pay phone?" "Oh, sure. Do you really think we should?" Denise asked, smiling, trying to gain the courage for such a step. "Sure. What could it hurt? I'll turn the ringer on the phone down just a little, so it won't disturb the other patients. Go ahead. Do it. I've got a few minutes. I'll wait here. Let it ring, oh, say, ten times. OK?"

"O.K.! Thanks'" Denise called out as she turned, hurriedly leaving the room. Denise dialed the room number from the pay phone just down the hall, her heart racing with every ring. Please, please, let it work, she thought. It's just got to work! But, at the end of the tenth ring, she hung up, disappointed. She didn't answer! Dejected, she walked back to the room to talk with Maria, not accepting defeat well at all. Just got my hopes up too high, she thought to herself. Now what? But, upon entering the room, she didn't see the defeated look on Maria's face as she expected, although the Jane Doe was lying exactly as she had left her, still looking like a 'sleeping beauty'. "No good, huh?" Denise stated as she closed the door behind her. "You know, I can't say for sure, and though she didn't come out of her coma, I could swear there was a frown, just a slight change of expression, mind you, but a response, nonetheless! Let's not give up, OK? Let's try again. When do you get another break?" Maria asked. "My lunch break is at twelve o'clock, so can we meet in here about twelve-thirty? This time, let me call, and you watch her, OK? I really think there was a slight reaction, so it may work yet!" Maria was still optimistic, and it was encouraging to Denise. "Yeah,OK! See you then," Denise called on her way out. "Thanks, Maria." Feeling a little better that there had maybe been some reaction, according to Maria, even though slight, Denise began her duties with a new enthusiasm. After all, if Nana and Papa were praying for her, something was bound to happen! Denise avoided thoughts about God, and all she had learned last night, glad to have settled that question in her heart, but not ready yet to face the question that haunted her now. At least, now, she knew God would answer Nana and Papa's prayers, and they were always praying! Denise remembered the post card she had received from Mom and Dad, from Italy, with a really neat picture of some of the ancient ruins. Mom wrote briefly that Dad was doing fine, and they both were enjoying the trip immensely. They would be home in about a week, and had several more attractions lined up visit. Denise was pleased for them. They hadn't taken more than weekend trip together, alone, as

long as she could remember. Then she thought of Jon, realizing this was Friday. Did he plan to come in tonight, or in the morning? She had forgotten ask him! If she. were at home, she could just look out her window and know when he got there, but at the farm. she had to wait for his call. But, of course, he would call as soon as he arrived. And she was determined not to let her stupid dream keep them from having a good time while he was down! Tommorow would be a good time for that afternoon picnic the pasture, she thought dreamily, between patients, and began plan the things she would prepare. But, at twelve-thirty, she was in Jane Doe's room,as planned, and the phone began to ring. Denise leaned over the patient watching intensely for any change, any movement. One..., two..., three..., nothing! Her heart began sink. Four..., five..., six..., still nothing. Just lying the motionless as if in a trance. Seven..., eight...wait! Was that a flicker of her eyelids? No. It must have been her imagination. But, there it was again! By the tenth ring, Denise knew a change had taken place, just a faint change in the sleep-like expression, a tiny movement of her left hand, the flickering eyelashes! It was working, not like she had imagined, but it was working! Excitement, relief, and renewed faith flooded over Denise at that moment, as she leaned over the bed, in a quiet voice saying to the patient, "Can you hear me? Can you open your eyes? I believe you can hear me. I want so badly for you to get well. Please open your eyes. Maria opened the door to the room, and curiously stepped in, taking in the scene, with Denise leaning over the bed, talking to the paitent. "Any response?" she asked Denise quietly. Denise*s eyes glittered with enthusiasm. "Yes! Yes, there was! I saw her eyes flicker first, then I thought it was just my imagination, but it happened again! And the expression on her face changed a little. I don't know how to describe it, but it was there! She moved her left hand just slightly, too. It's working, Maria, it's really working! Her voice was high-pitched, though quiet, with excitement. Denise knew there was no more time left today to continue the experiment, but her hopes had not been completely unjustified. It would not be long before the lady regained consciousness. She just knew it! Just

wait until she could tell Nana and Papa about this! Such rejoicing there was in the little house on the farm, when Denise shared the news of the Jane Doe's progress with Nana and Papa! But Jon's call interrrupted the excited conversation, and he was at home, getting ready to come out to the farm, now. Denise gave him directions, and began to get ready for her date. Anxious to see him again, she hurried through her shower, shampoo, and blow-dried her hair, then carefully re-applied her make-up. Using the curling iron, she styled her natural curls becomingly, and set about to choose her outfit. Applying layers of new yarn, she fitted Jon's senior ring snugly on her finger, and looking at the clock on the bathroom wall, decided there was still time for a manicure. She quickly chose a pair of mint green walking shorts, and a multicolored floral print cotton top, and pulling them on, looked in the mirror for approval. Yes, this would do nicely for a laid-back evening with her favorite guy! How wonderfully everything was working out! All was well with Jon, and she would be with him in just a little while. Nana and Papa were so good to her (and so much fun!). Mom and Dad were doing well and having a good time in Europe. And Jane Doe was beginning to come out of her coma! All is right with the world, Denise decided, as she applied the new polish to her nails. She had found a shade of pink which went perfectly with some of the tiny roses in her shirt. Denise had been trying really hard to quit biting her nails, and so far, this time, she had succeeded. They were actually long enough to file. Mom would be really proud of her when she returned from the trip, and saw her long fingernails. And no fakes, either! Denise had just finished with the polish, and was blowing her nails to dry them, when she heard the sound of the familiar loud tail pipes from Jon's sportscar. Perfect timing! "Someone's here, Denise," Nana called from the kitchen. "Must be here to see you, by the sound of the car. And what a looker!" Denise cracked up. She couldn't believe Nana was talking like that!

"Yeah, it's Jon. I can tell by the sound, too. I'm glad you'll get to meet him, Nana," Denise, said, walking into the kitchen. I know you'll love him. Mom and Dad do, and Todd, too. Standing at the door, Denise waited until Jon stepped onto the big porch, then opened the door. "Well, hello, stranger," she said in greeting, as he leaned down and planted a quick kiss on her lips. "Hello, yourself! You're sure looking good," Jon murmured quietly while holding her, briefly. "Come on in. I want you to meet Nana. Nana, this is Jon Rivers, the one, and only! Jon, this is my grandmother. Mom's Mom, Irene Smith." Jon and Irene exchanged pleasantries, and Irene invited Jon into the living room, and offered him a Coke, which he gratefully accepted. Denise was so glad that Jon always knew the right things to say and do, and knew Nana wouldn't be able to resist his charm, either. "Papa's out in the pasture somewhere, I guess, isn't he, Nana? He should be back soon." I'm anxious for you to meet him, too. He's quite a character!" Denise did get to introduce Jon to Charlie, just as they were leaving to 'cruise the drag'. And, true to form. Papa kept them busy for fifteen minutes, asking questions, and cracking jokes. Finally, Denise jokingly said, "Now, Papa, I haven't seen this guy in two whole weeks, and I'm not about to share him, tonight! We'll be back around eleven, OK? Y'all be good while we're gone, now, you hear?" she popped off teasingly. They piled into Jon's little car, and off they went to see what was happening in town, and to make up for lost time.

FLASHBACK Chapter 16

It seemed awfully foggy, the young girl thought, as she walked along the isolated path leading home. She didn't like walking home this late by herself, but she had been talking with a friend after basketball practice, and didn't reaize how late it was getting. But, it wasn't dark, yet. She knew Mom would be worried about her, but everything would be OK when she explained. Isn't that Jerry just ahead, standing almost in the bushes along the path? What is he doing here, she wondered? Jerry was a real creep from her school, and he was always being rude, or popping up with off-color comments'. Joanie always felt uncomfortable around him, and tried to avoid him when at all possible. But it looked impossible today! She glared at him as she neared his still form, not speaking, not smiling. She definitely did not want to encourage a conversation with him! Then, as she walked just about even with him, she shifted her eyes to look straight at the path ahead of her. Just as she passed him, though, deciding he wouldn't bother her today, she felt him grab her arm from behind and twist it behind her back! Joanie cried out in pain, and tried to break his hold on her, but to no avail. She tried kicking behind her, but was unable to connect with his flesh. When she tried to turn, the pain from her twisted arm seared through her joints, warning to avoid such movements. In her fury and panic, she screamed out, "What are you doing? You're hurting me! Quit that!" Tears of helplessness began to roll down her cheeks, as he held her tightly from behind. "You're a real snob, aren't you? Think you're too good for old Jerry, do ya? Well, I'll bring you down a notch or two," he said hatefully, his breath hot on her shoulder and neck, and coming rapidly. Almost dragging her, he pulled her from the path into the brush, and threw her down hard into the weeds of the little clearing. Quickly, she sprang up, aware of the freedom of movement again, but just as quickly, felt herself being shoved back down! The hate and fury began to turn to fear, as she saw a new look in his eyes. He threw himself down on her. Her screams and strength seemed far from her, as he viciously attacked her. What was actually minutes, seemed like hours. Then, just as quickly, he was gone, his last searing

words ringing in her ears, "You rat on me, and 1*11 kill you!" Painfully, she rose from the ground, feeling as if her whole body was bruised, and aching all over, but the pain in her heart was even worse! The humiliation, the violation, the terror, caused the tears, and loud sobbing to become uncontrollable! How could this have happened? What had she done to deserve something like this? She questioned herself in panic, as she tried to cover her near naked body with the ripped shorts and top. Where was her bag with her school clothes? On the trail, probably, she decided in alarm as she tried to gain control of her panic. What would she tell Mom? What could she tell her, but the truth? How else would she be able to explain the ripped basketball practice outfit? How could she have let this happen to her? Why couldn't she stop him? In the fog, suddenly, she saw herself in the hospital, holding her own precious baby girl in her arms for the first, and last time. So much had happened since that fateful evening of the rape. Jerry had been convicted of the rape and sent away to a juvenile detention center, and she alone, except for her Mom, had to deal with the terror, guilt, and unwanted pregnancy. And now, this little baby was to be given up for adoption. As her Mom had said many times, a fourteenyear-old girl just couldn't handle all the responsibilities of bringing up a child, and of course, the financial burden would be unbearable. But, to let go of this precious little bundle was almost more than she could bear, and she was crying out with the pain of separation, already. Then the scene switched, in her mind, to the highway. She was within fifty miles of her destination, and very tired from traveling. There had been very little traffic since turning on this highway, but she had noticed for the last few miles, a car behind her, and now, he was blinding her with his bright lights shining in her rear view mirror. She glanced back frequently, noting the car weaving in the road, speeding up and getting closer, then backing off, still all over the road. Deciding that the driver must be drunk, she sped up to get away from this unpredictable vehicle. But, as she sped up, so did the vehicle behind her, almost as if she had challenged him. Surely it was a him! The road stretched out in front of her, somewhat undulating with the occassional hills, frequent small bridges, and culverts. The threat of

being overtaken, as if it were a game, invaded her weary consciousness, striking again the chord of terror, and helplessness. What could she do? If she slowed down, would he also slow down, or would he pass her, perhaps wrecking? The car was weaving all over the road, as if being jerked from side to side. How fast would she have to go to get away from him, she wondered, looking at the speedometer. It was already on eighty- five mph. What if she just stopped, off the shoulder of the road, and let them around? Was there a danger of him stopping, if she should stop? The car was now almost on her bumper, the lights glaring, blinding her as she, without making a conscious decision, moved onto the shoulder of the road, slowing automatically to let the other car around. Then the feeling of floating in air, bouncing painfully, the sound of metal crushing, glass splintering, and something wet and sticky running over her in the darkness, consumed her thoughts. She heard someone in the background screaming, screaming.. . Maria, the nurse on duty, rushed into the room where the frightened scream continued, not even realizing it was Jane Doe's room, for a minute. But there she was, the previous 'sleeping beauty', as Denise had called her sympathetically, her hands drawn up in fists, clutching her chest, eyes closed, screaming as if her life depended on it. Pushing the emergency call button, the nurse attempted to quiet the patient, speaking in soft, reassuring tones, grasping her hands, carefully guarding the I.V. site. Almost immediately, other nurses were present in the room, and the doctor on duty following only slightly behind. When soft tones and touch were unable to quieten the frightened patient, the doctor ordered a quick acting, but mild tranquilizer, which Maria administered quickly and efficiently, as two other nurses held the patient, and continued to speak softly to her. Within minutes, the screaming ebbed, and as the nurses continued ministering to the fragile-looking young woman, she slowly began to relax her tense muscles. She opened her eyes, just barely at first, and fearfully asked, with a soft voice, "Where am I?" "You're in a hospital near where you were found in a wrecked car. You've been here for some time, now. Are you hurting anywhere?" Maria asked gently.

"No," the lady answered, "I'm just weak, very weak." Then noticing her leg in a cast, and traction, asked, "What's wrong with my leg?" "You have a fracture, but it's healing nicely. It won't be long until the traction setup will be removed. We've been worried about you, you've been unconscious for so long. We didn't even know who you were, there wasn't any I.D. found. Do you remember your name?" "Joan--Joan Weston. A lot of people call me Joanie," she answered hesitantly, as the memories began once more to flood her mind. "Are you getting sleepy, Joanie?" Maria asked, as she noted the patient's eyelids getting heavy. "I think maybe I should rest a little while," Joanie answered, her speech becoming slightly sluggish. After orienting her drowsy patient to the call light system, Maria left the room, and headed straight for the phone at the nurse's station, to spread the good news. "Does anyone know how to get in touch with Denise Whitaker, the volunteer? I know she would want to know what's happened." After a few minutes discussion, someone found the phone number for Denise's grandparents. Maria dialed the number, waited as it rang, then heard the pleasant voice of Denise's grandmother answer. "Hello, this is Maria Marshall. Is this where Denise Whitaker is staying?" "Why, yes, it is. I'm her grandmother." "Well, I'm a nurse out at the hospital, and a friend of Denise's. Is she available? I would sure like to share some good news with her." "Oh, I'm sorry. She's gone off today with her boyfriend for a picnic in the pasture, and I don't really expect her back before dark, but I'll tell her you called." Nana said sweetly. "Would you just tell her that Jane Doe has regained consciousness, and it looks like she's gonna be fine?" "Well, praise the Lord! I will surely tell her." Nana exclaimed. "She'll be so excited to hear that! We've been praying for her. Thank you so

much for calling.

TRANSITION
Chapter 17

In a secluded clearing of the large pasture, Denise and Jon lay snuggled up on the blanket she had brought from Nana's. The tablecloth and picnic items were still spread nearby, though the food had been hungrily devoured quite a while back. His passion spent, Jon was sleeping soundly, snoring softly. What was it that was so different, Denise wondered. She knew she loved him. She had since the first time she'd seen him! As usual, he'd been sweet and gentle, at least until she hesitated. Then his touch had become almost demanding, until she surrendered. Why, she wondered, why was it different? Somehow, it just wasn't the same. The pleasure of being with Jon was for some reason greatly diminished. Was it guilt? Why should there be guilt? She loved him, didn't she? And he loved her! She didn't have to worry about things like pregnancy and diseases. She had learned a long time ago, in sex education class at school, how to prevent those things. And she and Jon had always been cautious. But, Denise remembered in Sunday School, they had studied scriptures in the Bible which listed fornication and adultery with the evil works of murder and idolatry. Roger had explained carefully to his mixed class that premarital sex was fornication. That sex was a wonderful gift from God, but only if two people had made a lifetime commitment to God and each other. Of course, at that time, Denise didn't really even believe there was a God, so she had given little heed to the teaching. Now, things were different, but what could she do? Jon would never understand if she suddenly denied him. He had proven that today! What if he sought out other girls? How could she bear that? Denise felt trapped, wanting to do good, but continuing to do wrong, with no answer in sight. Surely, when you loved someone, and that love was returned, God wouldn't expect denial of the love. After all, he is a God of love, Denise

concluded, making a mental note to study the Bible regarding this issue, for herself. Perhaps Roger had overlooked something which would ease her conscience. Nana and Papa had given her a new Bible, one with references, concordance, dictionary and a lot of study helps. This would be her first study, she decided as she rose silently from the ground to avoid waking Jon. "Show me what to do. God," Denise prayed quietly, as she walked over to a large oak tree, looking out upon the expanse of pasture land with a large tank in the distance, and noted a few cows moping along, eating the grass leisurely. Thinking back. Mom and Dad had never made her feel like premarital sex was wrong. Oh, there had been times when something was said about a girl who turned up pregnant, or with a venereal disease, and they would comment about how dumb that was, nowadays, to get caught in that situation, what with contraceptives, and condoms, and such. But, no, she couldn't remember any thing about a moral standpoint being made clear. Discretion and precaution seemed to be the main thing from her parents point of view. What would Nana and Papa say, if they knew about her relationship with Jon? Denise cringed at the thought! There is your answer, she told herself, knowing that they had a close relationship with the God of the Universe! Jon awakened, and called out, "Denise, where'd you go?" Then looking around, propped on one elbow, he saw her standing beside the tree, her back to him. Getting to his feet, he walked toward her, a new coolness was in his voice as he called out to her. "What is going on with you? You've sure changed! Are you seeing someone else or what?" Spinning around to meet his gaze, a surprised Denise said to him, "What? Of course not! How could you even think such a thing?" "I don't know, but you're sure acting strange. I've never seen you like this before. You want to tell me what's going on? I wouldn't even have left campus if I'd known you were going to be like this," John said, disapprovingly. "Oh, Jon, please don't talk like that! You know how much I love you,

and I've missed you so much while you were gone!" She walked to him, put her arms around him, and held him tight, burying her face in his neck. Responding to her touch, he said, more gently, "Well, something's different! You sure don't act like you used to." "Jon, have you ever considered, really considered, whether there is a God? You know, like the Bible says?" "What? Don't tell me you're going religious on me!" "I don't know. I didn't really think there was a God, but, we had a Bible study at Nana and Papa's, and, well, I'm convinced now that He is real. I'm just not sure where I'm going from here! You're right, though, things are different! I never realized it before, but this really affects everything in my life." "Oh, come on Denise. Don't give me that! Have they been preaching 'hell and brimstone' to you, or what? What's the big deal, anyway, whether there's a God or not?" Jon asked impatiently. "No, they have not preached 'hell and brimstone' to me!" Denise said, suddenly irritated with Jon's irreverant manner. "They've preached "love*, that God loves me, and wants what is best for me, and that since He created me, only He knows what is best for me!" "Sure! And how are you supposed to know what He wants for you, huh? Answer me that!" Jon's voice was becoming increasingly bitter, Denise thought, as she wondered how her beautiful plans for this afternoon had gone down the drain! How could he be so callous, so unfeeling when referring to the Almighty God? Then, sadly, she reminded herself that she, too, had been that way, telling herself there really wasn't a God. But deep in her heart, hadn't she really known all along? Hadn't she deliberately denied that knowledge to please her parents, and selfishly, to do as she pleased with her life? Suddenly, as tears sprang to her eyes with this revelation, she asked Jon to take her home, and rushed to pack up the picnic things. Stunned, Jon followed reluctantly. "I don't understand you, Denise, I just don't understand you at all!"

They drove to the house in silence, as Denise tried to figure out a balance between obeying God, and keeping Jon, if there was such a thing! But, if not, how could she bear to live without Jon? He was surely the only guy she could ever love! Life was so unfair, she thought, in frustration. She was very unhappy with Jon right now, but they would work it out. They had to! When they reached Nana and Papa's house, Jon helped Denise carry in the picnic things, but with a curious look on his face, Denise thought. Nana met them at the door. "Did you have a good picnic?" She asked casually, glancing back and forth between the two. "Yeah," Jon answered. "The food was delicious!" "Good," Nana answered. "Denise, you had a call from Maria at the hospital. She said your patient, Jane Doe had come out of the coma. She knew you would want to know!" "Oh, Nana!" Denise said, suddenly excited, hugging Nana tightly. "Oh, that's wonderful! I can't wait to see her and get to know all about her. "I've got to go to her, right now!" "What about tonight? I thought we were going out!" Jon asked defensively. "Sorry. I've got to go see her. You wouldn't believe how long I've waited for this!" exclaimed Denise. "Do you want me to drive you in, or do you want to take your car?" asked Jon almost reluctantly. Denise looked at him, their eyes meeting for a moment, and said politely, "Thanks, Jon, for offering, but I'm afraid you'd be bored at the hospital. And I have no idea how long I'll be there. I'd better take my car." She hurried to her room to change clothes and freshen up, leaving Jon standing in the kitchen, looking very uncomfortable. Shortly she returned, ready to go. "I'll be home in a little while, Nana. Don't worry about me, OK?" "I won't", Nana said. "I'm just thanking the Lord that, once again, our

prayers have been answered." Denise caught a strange, unbelieving look in Jon's eyes as Nana said those words, and felt almost pity for him that he couldn't, or didn't want to, understand. Then, amazed herself, as she realized she did understand, and she, too, was inwardly giving a heartfelt thanks to God! Jon walked with her to the car with an unsure, hesitant manner. Denise caught his sideways glances, as if he was trying to figure out a new approach, as if the situation suddenly was out of control, and he was planning his strategy. As Denise climbed into her car, she coolly, but politely said, "See ya later, Jon. Gotta go now," as she started up her car. Without a word, Jon stared at her briefly, then turned on his heel. Was that a look of revenge in his eyes? Denise wondered. There was just too much to think about now. She'd worry about Jon later, she decided, as she focused her thoughts on Jane Doe's recovery. Jon could wait!

MEETING JOANIE
Chapter 18

Denise, curious, and almost frightened, stood at the door of Joanie Weston's room. She had talked with Maria at the nurse's station before coming to her room, and found out all that had happened. Maria said that after Joanie's tranquilizer wore off, she seemed rested, and doing quite well. Maria said it would be fine to go in to see her. In fact, Maria said they had told Joanie about Denise, and how devoted she had been, and that she would probably be here, as soon as she found out Joanie had regained consciousness. Hesitating, and not knowing why, to step into the room of this stranger who had occupied so many of her thoughts, and much of her time since she had been brought in. And now that she was conscious, and she could finally meet her, why was she so anxious?

Gathering her courage and putting on her best 'volunteer smile', she knocked on the half-closed door. Hearing a soft 'come in', she stepped inside. She could see the patient sitting up in bed. The television was on in front of the beautiful young woman. "Hi, I'm Denise Whitaker. I'm a volunteer here at the hospital. I've been hoping to meet you ever since you came in," Denise said, shyly. "Hello, Denise. I'm Joan Weston. You can call me Joanie, if you like. That's what most everybody calls me. You must be the one everybody has told me about, who's been so faithful and concerned about me. I appreciate it. I really do," she said, clicking off the television. Denise sat down in the chair near the bed and said, "I couldn't believe you were here so long, and we didn't know anything about you, how to get in touch with your family, or even what to call you. We called you 'sleeping beauty' a lot," Denise said smiling. "Hey, that's sweet. Looks like everybody took pretty good care of me while I was 'out'. The doctor said I would probably get the traction setup off in a couple of days, then I could go home pretty soon. I live not too far from here, a little community called Golden. Do you know where that is?" "Yes, kind of. I've heard of it anyway. Do you have any family that we should contact? A husband, children? What happened anyway? Do you remember?" "Yeah, I remember, but it seems more like a nightmare, than reality! I was coming home from a visit to my brother's family's home. He died not long ago, and was buried in Colorado, where they had lived for quite a while. And this drunk driver, I guess he was drunk, (or maybe it was kids showing off, or something),I don't know - was behind me for several miles. I was trying to get ahead of him, or let him pass me, and the next thing I knew, here I am!" "Gosh, that's awful! Thank God you weren't killed! You were awfully lucky to have only a fractured leg, and minor injuries. You know, the scars hardly show on your face!" "You're right! I do thank God!" Joanie said with a shudder. "It sure could have been much worse!" "About your family, is there anyone we should call?" Denise asked.

"Oh, well, I don't really have much family, anymore," Joanie said sadly. "My husband was killed in an accident three years ago." "Oh, that's awful," Denise responded sympathetically. "And I didn't have any children. Well," Joanie hesitated, "I did give up a child for adoption when I was fourteen. But, that's a long story. I had been raped... After that, I could never get pregnant again, something about some damage that was done in childbirth, the doctors said. Anyway, I don't know why I'm telling you all this. You must think I'm terrible." "Oh, no! I'm just sorry you've had so much sorrow! And to be so young, and beautiful! May I ask you a very personal question? You don't have to answer it, if you'd rather not," Denise asked shyly. "I don't mind," Joanie replied, curiously. "Well, I was just wondering if you ever think about the baby you gave up. I'm sorry! I'm being too nosy, huh? I mean, I'm adopted, and I wonder about my 'real' mom a lot, you know. Just if, if she ever thinks about me, and stuff. I don't mean to pry, after all, you hardly know me!" "Oh, that's OK." Joanie said sadly, looking off toward the window with the curtains pulled back. "You know, I haven't talked about this to anyone for a long, long time. I've just kept it all bottled up inside." Looking back at Denise, she said, "Yes, I think about my little girl all the time. I only got to see her, and hold her one time. She would be about your age now, I guess. She was born on July 10. She's just turned sixteen, the way I figure it. No, I'll never forget that day!" Denise felt the color began to drain from her face, as she heard the date of Joanie*s child's birth. No, of course not! It couldn't be! It was just coincidence, that it was also Denise's birthdate! That she was also adopted-all just a coincidence! "I can't imagine the horror of being raped, and being pregnant from it, and then giving up the baby! It must have been awful! And you were only fourteen?" Denise responded, trying to make her voice sound normal, as her mind was racing. "Yes, but you grow up fast in a situation like that! I loved my baby girl

very much, even though it was a horrible way to conceive. I didn't want to give her up, but I knew I had to, for her sake! But, I've prayed if the Lord be willing, I'll get to see her again, someday. I pray for her all the time. I call her Diane. Of course, I don't know her real name, but God does." "That's such a sweet story. I hope you do get to meet her. I'm sure she would be very proud to know you were her mother." Denise replied, feeling she had to get out of this room as soon as possible! She had to get herself under control! Denise looked at her watch, and said almost hastily, "Well, I've really enjoyed talking to you, Joanie, and I'm so glad you're doing well. I've really got to go now, but, I'll be back. I promise." "Thank you, for coming, and for listening. I guess I needed to talk to someone, today. I was having flashbacks, when I came out of the coma. And you're a very kind girl. Did you say your name is Denise?" "Yes, Denise Whitaker." "Please do come back to visit me. I like you already, Denise." Tears filled Denise's eyes as she left the room, and began to walk down the hall to the elevator. Wishing it could be true, that she had found her 'real' mother, then scolding herself, she continued to remind herself that this couldn't happen. She couldn't be Joanie Weston's daughter! It was just too far out! But yet, the same birthday! And Maria had asked if she was related to her! She said they looked a lot alike! And Denise had felt that feeling of familiarity, looking at the 'sleeping beauty'. Could it be? Oh, God, could both our prayers have been answered? It was already dark when Denise walked out of the hospital, and out to her car. Though preoccupied in thought, fear began to rise up in her, as she walked to the dimly lit parking lot, remembering the many warnings she'd had about kidnappers, rapists, and murderers, lurking in parking lots at night. Hurriedly, she unlocked her car door, climbed inside, and locked her door again. Breathing a sigh of relief, she put the key in the ignition, and started her car. She turned on her lights, and pulled out of the parking lot onto the street. Scolding herself for her fear, she remembered that Joanie had been raped. Perhaps, her fear wasn't so foolish after all! Curious about the circumstances of the attack, Denise let her mind wander, as she automatically turned onto

the main drag. The unusually congested traffic reminded Denise it was Saturday night. How could she have forgotten so quickly. Then the awful feelings came flooding back with the memory of the afternoon picnic. How had everything gone so wrong? Interrupting Denise's confusion, a black sportscar, which looked very much like Jon's, pulled carelessly out in front of her, at an uncontrolled intersection, causing a near panic, in spite of the fact that the driver manipulated the car speedily, avoiding a collision. Red flags went up in Denise's mind! That looked like Jon's car, but there was a girl in there with the driver. Could that have been Jon? After the way things were left this afternoon, Denise felt very unsure of everything! The car in front of her put on the blinker for a right turn, and without hesitation, Denise followed suit! She had to know what was going on! With close observation, she saw that the driver was paying little attention to the traffic. The passenger seemed to be moving around in the car a lot, as if playing some kind of game with the driver. Surely, this couldn't be Jon! But who else drove a car like that in this town? Instictively, Denise knew, though hoping against hope, that it had to be Jon! But who could the passenger be? Fury began building as the pieces began falling into place. He had been upset with her this afternoon. Then she went to the hospital, alone, instead of spending time with Jon, as they had planned. What did she expect? A good-looking, popular, college guy like Jon wasn't about to sit at home on a Saturday night! Driving as close to the sports car as she dared, trying not to attract his attention, she pursued, hoping to get a glimpse of whoever was with him. Signaling for a left turn, the car ahead made it's way to a convenience store, on the highway leading out of town. Following more slowly, Denise's thoughts returned to graduation night, when Roger had parked here, after rescuing her from the lonely highway. Remembering the feeling of rejection and desolation after Jon had left her stranded on the highway, and then her continuous excuses for his behavior, she began to admit to herself for the first time that, perhaps, Jon hadn't been so perfect after all.

She realized that although Jon's actions had been induced by the beer he drank, he had willingly indulged, knowing the problems that could come from it. For some reason, perhaps fear, yes, the fear of losing Jon, she had totally excused his behavior Was that love? Or was it stupidity? The passenger was getting out of the car. Oh, no! It was the redhead from the graduation party, the one whom Denise had overheard saying she had been with Jon! Denise was shocked, but there was no mistaking the copper-red hair, and petite build. As Denise drove slowly by, she searched her mind for the girl's name. She had looked it up in the yearbook, but what was it? Now she remembered, Jessie! Jessie Arnold. Could it have been true? The things that she had overheard in the restroom that day? Denise had never seriously considered the possibility of Jon cheating on her before, but after all, what had changed? They were still 'going steady'! She still was wearing his ring! Regardless of the afternoon quarrel, he still had no right to be with another girl! And they had looked quite chummy in the car, Denise decided angrily. Well, she wasn't going to let him off so easily this time!

ALL THINGS NEW!

Chapter 19

Furious with the young man Denise had thought she loved, she turned around, and started for the farm. She had considered confronting Jon right there, but thought better of it. There was a lot to be considered, she realized while driving the country road. Was this a first offense? Probably not! Her gut feeling told her the girl had been telling the truth about the late-night ride. And what was Jon doing all those times while Dad was in the hospital, when he would take her to visit Dad, and disappear with explainations of having 'things to do'?

Sarcastically, Denise wondered, now, who he was doing them with! What about the times Jon said he had tests, and thesis papers which would prevent him coming home on weekends? If he was unfaithful to her right under her nose, why not on campus? Now was not the time to confront him with these questions, Denise decided. Besides, he could always lie about it. If he would cheat on her, why wouldn't he lie to cover it up? No, she would try to get some information first! Her head would be stuck in the sand no longer! In spite of the anger, Denise found herself saddened, realizing her hopes, dreams, and plans for a future with Jon, might well be coming to an end. But, if he truly was that kind of guy, she could live very well without him! Better than she could, without being able to trust him. But, what if she was wrong? No, not this time, Denise told herself. It was like the pieces of a puzzle suddenly coming together! Arriving at the farm, Denise saw that the kitchen light was still on, even though it was well past her grandparents' usual bedtime. That was encouraging. She hated going into a dark house alone at night. It would be good to have someone to talk to, but not about this, of course. This, she would have to work out alone! Nana met her at the door, unlocking it to let her in. "Did you talk to your patient? How is she? Does she remember anything?" Nana asked excitedly. "Oh, Nana, she is doing great. I had a good visit with her, and she doesn't seem to have lost any of her memory! Her name is Joanie Weston and she lives in Golden. She doesn't have any family left, except her dead brother's family, who lives in Colorado. Her husband died a while back, and she doesn't have any kids." Denise hesitated just a second, then continued. "She thinks she was being followed by a drunk driver, but she doesn't remember the accident exactly, or how it happened. She really is nice, Nana. I wish you could meet her!" "Me too. Well, perhaps I will. I could go visit her, you know, and tell her how we've been praying for her recovery. Of course, it's because you were so involved, and concerned with her! Do you think she knows the Lord?"

"I think so, Nana. She mentioned praying. We didn't really talk very much, though," Denise said thoughtfully. "But, it really wouldn't surprise me if she does." "I'll pray about it, and I just may call on this-Joanie, did you say her name was?" "Yeah. You know, I think the doctor will probably be releasing her soon. Her condition has been stable for sometime, and the traction will probably come off in a day or two. I don't know what she'll do, though, with no family to care for her until she's able to care for herself," Denise said, voicing her concern. "We can pray about that, too. It just may be that the Lord can use us to help her in some way. It's getting late now, and we'd better get to bed if we're going to make it to church in the morning," Nana said, as she began to turn out the lights and check the doors. Quietly closing the door to her room, to avoid waking Papa, Denise began to undress for bed. Her mind was like a three ring circus, going from the afternoon picnic, to Joanie, to the possibility of being her daughter, to Jon's disloyalty, to wondering about God, and what he thought of the whole mess. Lying quietly in bed, on the verge of sleep, a scripture was brought to her mind. "And we know that all things work together for good to those that love God, and to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28. She remembered learning it in Vacation Bible School, a long time ago. Funny that she should remember it, now. Repeating it again in her mind, she wondered if it applied to her. The heat was already in the air, when Papa called to Denise the next morning. Feeling tired, and aching from the emotional conflicts of the previous day, Denise slowly managed to climb out of bed. Wishing she could just sleep the day away, she forced herself to get ready for Church. Denise reminded herself how much she had learned, in such a short time, since she had been at Nana and Papa's. Things had happened so fast, she'd hardly even had time to miss her parents, or Todd, she realized. Of course, she was sure they were doing fine, and having fun. Well, she probably would see Todd, and Grandma and Grandpa at Church. And she would just have to sit down

and write to Mom and Dad. They'd be returning home next weekend, if all went as planned, but she had their itenerary, complete with addresses. There was no excuse for not writing at least once while they were gone, she reminded herself. Roger really was a good teacher, she decided, as he began to delve into the Sunday School lesson. She knew that he was taking classes at a nearby college with plans to eventually teach High School. He would be good at that too, she predicted, with his sincere desire to help others, and he would be a good example to his students, she knew, as he seemed to be able to live what he preached. Now, here is a man, she found herself thinking, her mind still wandering from the lesson. Not like Jon, who went for the gusto of life. Denise's philosophical thoughts were interrupted by Roger's question to her: "Denise, what did Jesus say to Nicodemus, when Nicodemus asked how a man can be born again when he is old? Do you remember?" "Uh, I remember the story. He said something about being born of the water, and of the Spirit, didn't he?" "Yes, he did. He said 'except a man be born of the water, and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God. It's found in John, Chapter 3 verse 5. What do you think he meant by that, Denise?" "Well," Denise hesitated, searching for the true meaning. "Is he referring to water baptism?" "That's part of it. How can you be born of the Spirit?" Roger probed. "Does it mean like salvation?" Denise asked, unsure of her answer. "Yes. Salvation means deliverance, from the old nature, from hell, from the curse of sin and death. A total deliverance which occurs not only in our spirit, which is the real you, but, also includes deliverance for our soul, or our mind, will, and emotions, as well as for our body. It is not always evident immediately, and Satan frequently tries to steal our peace, our health, and our salvation. But, it was bought and paid for by Jesus, when he died on the cross. "And the Word says, in Romans 10:9, 'that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heart that God has raised

him from the dead, you will be saved'. Paul says in Romans 1:16, 'For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth.' Do you think that we should ashamed to confess the Lord in front of people if we're saved?" "No," Denise admitted. No, if we believe it, we can't be ashamed of it, she thought to herself. The lesson went on, but Denise's thoughts continued to dwell on salvation, deliverance from the sinful nature by public confession of what one already believed in the heart. It is time, she decided. At the close of the worship service, when the invitation was given, she gathered all her courage, and stepped out into the aisle. Her fear was unreasonable, but rising. Knowing everyone was watching her, afraid of what they were thinking about her, and wondering how this would affect her life, (could she live up to this commitment?), she walked forward, determined, at last, to make an open, public confession, that she, a sinner, wanted deliverance. She wanted Jesus to be her Lord. With tears streaming down her face, tears of humbleness, and submission, and with her heart pounding heavily in her chest, she stood silently before the minister as he prayed for her, then as he directed, she repeated the sinner's prayer. "And, oh, the joy that floods my soul", the choir was softly singing, as Denise slowly made her way back to her seat. Her steps seemed lighter, and the day brighter, she realized, as the joy did flood her soul! It's gone, she thought, elated. The worry, the cares... She didn't understand all that had happened, but there was a difference. Something very definite had happened. It was as if she was in the arms of someone who loved her very much, with a very tender, secure love! And it was real! No longer was she afraid of the future, or guilty of the past! She was just revelling in the gladness of her heart! The preacher was reading from the Bible, as Denise brought her attention back to her surroundings. "Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away, behold, all things are become new. II Corinthians 5:17."

Yes, Denise realized, I am a new creature in Christ. I'll never again be the same. Once again, I've been adopted. Adopted into God's own family. Thank you Lord!

REALITY!
Chapter 20

After the church service, Denise received many hugs and welcomes to the family of God, Nana and Papa being the first, since they were nearby. Denise knew that she had made them very happy with her decision, but especially because it was genuine, not just for them. Todd was waiting for Denise and his maternal grandparents, as they eventually made their way to the Church door. Denise thought Todd was acting a little strange, almost embarrassed, as he greeted her, Nana and Papa. "Y'all gonna come to my ballgame Thursday night? You oughta come see me play. I've been doing real good!" Todd said eagerly. "And so far, we've won more games than all the other teams!" "I'd like that, son". Papa said, squeezing the back of Todd's neck affectionately. "What time does it start, and where's it at?" As the details were given, all agreed it would be a good outing, and plans were made to watch the All Star Game 'of the century' as Todd had jokingly described the last, and probably most difficult game they would play this year. Denise visited briefly with Grandma and Grandpa Whitaker while waiting to go home. Eventually. Nana and Papa were in Denise's little lavender VW, with the top down, Denise's heart light, and carefree, enjoying the newness of life her committment had brought. Still, there were unanswered questions lurking in her mind. Who was her real mother? Would she ever know for sure? Did anyone know anymore than she did about the reason for her adoption? Bravely, she decided to try to find out.

"Nana, do you know anything at all about my biological mother, or why I was given up for adoption? It really doesn't matter, you know. I'll always love Mom and Dad as my real parents, but I wonder about it a lot." "I really don't know much to tell you, Hon, but I figured one day you'd want to know. Are you thinking you'd want to look up your biological mother? You'd really need to talk with your Mom and Dad before you do that." "Not really, I just would like to know the reason she gave me up. You know, if she just didn't want a baby, or if she gave me up for my sake. It's not really that important to me." Denise was careful not to give any clues about her suspicions. "Well, let's see. I think they said that your mother was very young when you were born, too young to take responsibility for you. I think her family was rather poor. I believe you were given up in order for you to have a good life, out of love, from what I understand. I do know that the story was that she had been raped. I hope you don't let that upset you. Maybe I shouldn't have told you that part, Hon." "No, Nana, don't worry about that. It won't bother me. I'm glad you told me. It helps even to know that much. I've been wondering a long time." Determined to keep her suspicions to herself, Denise began evaluating the possibilities. Of course, there were bound to be other young women who were raped, became pregnant, gave birth to baby girls, and placed them for adoption, but the same birthday? That was just too coincidental! Denise was already 99% sure that Joanie Weston was her biological mother, but with her questions answered to her own satisfaction, she decided it would be best just to keep it to herself. After lunch, the phone rang. It was Jon. Denise was amazed at her reaction. For the first time since she had known him, she felt no excitement, no desire to talk with him, or be near him. She was no longer angry with him, just felt a kind of pity for him. She wondered what would become of him, and if he would ever truly find happiness. "Denise, were you busy? I wondered if you wanted to do something this afternoon. I'll need to be leaving for school about six o'clock, but I can come out for awhile if you want me to."

"OK. Yes, that would be good. I really need to talk to you anyway. Can you come on out now?" "Sure. You sound kind of strange. Is everything OK?" Jon sounded concerned. "Everything's great for me, Jon. Really. See you soon." "I love you Denise." Jon said gently. "OK,Goodbye." Denise hung up the receiver, thinking how odd it was that she could be so calm about facing him, after being so angry last night. And she still felt happy inside, in spite of all this. Wasn't this something akin to a miracle? It didn't take long for Jon to arrive. Denise had been watching for him through the kitchen window, and went out to meet him as he drove into the front drive. She caught Nana's anxious glance as she left the house, and wished she'd explained things to her. She knew Nana sensed that something was up, but there wasn't time now. Nana was so sweet, not asking any personal questions, Denise thought, thankfully. Denise went to the passenger side of Jon's car and got in, thankful that he had parked in the shade, and noticed a cool breeze was blowing occassionally. "Hi," she said casually. Looking into his big brown eyes she decided not to waste time. "Jon, I made a really big decision this morning. It will effect my whole life. I want you to know I made Jesus Lord of my life, today. I want you to know that I am not the same person you've known all this time. I think it's time to give you your freedom, but I hope someday you'll make this same decision. I'm happier than I've ever been." "What are you talking about? I don't want my freedom! I don't understand what's going on with you, Denise. Are you just looking for an excuse to break up with me? Is that it? Don't you have any feelings for me anymore?" Jon's eyes were intense with feeling, as Denise tried to decide whether it was anger or fear, or both. "Listen, Denise, you've been getting a lot of that religious nonsense crammed down your throat ever since you came out here to stay.

Believe me, when you get back home, and everything gets back to normal, you're gonna see. It's just a bunch of foolishness, Denise!" "I thought I loved you Jon, but I didn't even know what love was. Now that I've had a taste of real love, from God, I realize I never really loved you, not a lasting love anyway. I was very attracted to you, but then, you're a very handsome guy. You won't have any trouble replacing me, Jon," she said, as she handed him his senior ring. "I don't want that back, Denise. I want you to keep it. I love you, Denise!" Getting out of the car, she refused to take the ring back. She felt so sorry for him. She understood that this wasn't what he wanted, but she also understood that he really didn't know what he wanted. He reached across the car, and grabbed Denise's arm roughly. She gently tried to loosen his grasp, in vain. He released her quickly, though, when he saw Papa had stepped out the door, and was standing on the front porch, glaring at him. "Look, Babe, I was really upset last night, after our argument, and when you left for the hospital, and didn't want me to go, I'll admit I did a pretty rotten thing. I ran into a girl, and ended up going out with her. I guess word must've gotten back to you, huh. Well, I know it wasn't right, but after the way you treated me, for no reason, I guess I just wanted to get back at you! But, I'm really sorry. Sweetheart, and I promise, it'll never happen again. Just give me another chance, OK? We can work out our problems. You'll get over this crazy thinking real soon. So just take back this ring, and let's just give it some time, OK?" Denise refused to give in to the anger trying to rise up within her. "Jon, this is not a game I'm playing, and I have not been 'brainwashed', and no one had to tell me about you being with Jessie Arnold last night, because I saw you for myself. But, that's not what this is about. I just don't have the same feelings for you now. It's justit's just over, Jon!" "Now, Denise, you can't mean that! Just quit acting stupid, Denise! You're mine, and you just can't drop me like that!" Denise could see that Jon was on the verge of losing control, again, only this time, he hadn't been drinking. She couldn't blame it on beer!

She got out of the car, said simply, "Bye", and with a smile, walked into the house, followed by Papa. Nana and Papa looked at each other then at her, but said nothing. She was aware that Jon's car didn't move for several minutes, but her mind was made up. She knew this was the right thing to do! Somehow, she felt it in her heart. After a few minutes, she heard Jon peel out of the driveway, and speed carelessly down the dirt road. Breathing a silent prayer in his behalf, she felt a new sense of relief. Now she could get on with her new life. Old things had passed away, all things had become new! Denise decided since she had the whole afternoon with nothing special to do, it was a good time to write that letter to Mom and Dad. It didn't take long to get her story told, and it was much easier than it would have been face to face. She explained that she and Jon had gone separate ways, knowing they would be disappointed, and that she had been studying the Bible for herself, and found that she did believe it literally, and hoped they would understand, and not oppose her in her decision to make Jesus Lord of her life. Now she felt better. Denise folded the letter, inserted it into the envelope, and completed the addressing, wondering how this letter would be received. She guessed they probably would be afraid for her, that she would become a 'fanatic' or something, and maybe they would be disappointed in her, for a while. Denise made up her mind to try to be a good 'follower of Christ', in a way that would cause her parents to believe, if possible. It was funny how the things she had been taught in Church and Sunday School, even years back, were just popping into her head. She hadn't paid much attention to them, then, but now they really had meaning. It was like everything she had ever been taught about spiritual things was just waiting for this day. Like it had been put away for her, and now was brought out. And Denise had a real yearning now to know more, to find out all she could about the God she was now serving. And the peace she felt reminded her of Psalm 23, the last part that says "my cup runneth over." Contentedly, she lay on her bed, looking out the window at God's masterpiece, the blue sky, white clouds, green trees, the blue water in the distant tank, the small birds occassionally flying from tree to tree, and wondered just what life held for her now.

Denise decided that she had one more thing she would have to do, explain to Nana and Papa about Jon. She couldn't let them go on wondering, and she could see that they weren't going to ask questions. They were very special people!

STRUGGLES...
Chapter 21

Work this week had been a breeze! It was already Wednesday. The days had gone by so fast, and everything had just fell into place. Denise's enthusiasm for life showed in her step and the constant smile on her face, which came directly from her heart, and the patients had responded to her cheerful offers to help with overwhelming gratitude. Familiar patients and new patients alike praised Denise for even the smallest things done, and she became a little embarassed at such open adoration. But, she understood they sensed a difference in her. She knew it was the joy of the Lord! The routine was the same, the nurses, and volunteers were the same, but Denise was different. Maria commented to Denise. as she entered the cafeteria behind her, "Something good must have happened to you this weekend!" And Denise, hesitating, decided to share the good news, wondering what Maria's response would be, if she knew, and decided it wouldn't matter. "You're right, Maria! This weekend I accepted Jesus as my Lord! And it's the best thing that ever happened to me!" "That's wonderful, Denise!" And right there in the cafeteria line, she gave Denise a big,sisterly hug! They sat together at lunch and got really acquainted. Denise found that, even though Maria was older, and married, they had a lot in common.

"Are you going to church anywhere, Maria?" Denise questioned, knowing now that Maria was a fellow believer in Christ. "I've been visiting churches here since we moved, but I'm not sure where to get really involved, you know what I mean? Everyone has been really nice. I'm praying the Lord will show me where he wants me." "It would be great if He put you in our church! I'd love having you there!" Denise explained where the church was located, and told about the pastor, and that it was a very active church. She admitted she had not been involved with the church activities, lately. But now, there was nothing to keep her from being involved. In fact, she was looking forward to it! Maria promised to talk with her husband about it, and said maybe they could visit there Sunday.Before they knew it, it was time to get back to work! Denise knew she had found a close friend, one who would be supportive of her new choices. Rejoicing, she started to the elevator on her way to the next patient. Nancy was just getting on the elevator as Denise approached it. "Hi, Denise," Nancy called out when she saw her coming around the corner. "Where have you been lately?" "Oh, Nancy, I haven't seen you in such a long time! I've been really busy, and I suppose you have too, since they put you on the fifth floor! How do you like it up there! There must be a lot to do, since they keep you up there all the time!" "Well, there have been a lot of patient admissions up there! And you know how it is with a new patient! Most of them feel really bad, or they're bedfast, and there are a lot of things they want me to attend to. But, enough of that, how are things with you? Your folks still gone on vacation? I can't believe you didn't go! And, Jon, how is he? Tell me, quick, before the elevator stops," Nancy said, talking fast at the end, and laughing. "Yeah! Well, there has been a lot going on, lately! Jon and I aren't seeing each other anymore, and it's best that way! And Mom and Dad will be back probably Saturday or Sunday, and we'll get to hear all about Europe for a month, I bet! Oops, here's where I get off! Give me

a call sometime, OK?" "Wait a minute". Nancy said, as she grabbed Denise's shoulder, and walked off the elevator with her. "What did you mean, you and Jon aren't seeing each other? Did he break up with you? What happened?" Denise smiled, knowing Nancy just loved a bit of juicy gossip, and would have to hear the details! "No, I broke it off with him!" "You did what? I can't believe you, Denise! You were so in love with him. Tell me what happened." Nancy's eyes held a look of disbelief. "I just thought I was in love. Nancy. Things have changed a lot since we talked last! I just found out that we didn't have much in common. You see, I've made Jesus Lord of my life now. I intend, with the help of the Lord, to live like a true Christian!" "Oh, no. Denise! What's happened to you? You were always so practical! Don't you know you won't be able to have any fun anymore? I can't believe I'm hearing this from you!" Nancy's voice went from disbelief to pity. "It's not like you think. Nancy. Really, it's not! It's the best, and most practical decision I've ever made! I've never been this happy before!" Denise's eyes showed her determination to pursue this new life. Nancy shook her head. "Gosh, Denise. I've gotta get back to work. I hope everything works out for you. See ya!" Nancy said, cooly as the elevator door had started to close. Nancy pushed it open, and stepped inside. Denise smiled to herself. Her best friend! But she knew if the tables had been turned, just two weeks earlier, she probably would have reacted in the same way. Well, she would have to pray for Nancy, that maybe someday, she'd find the way, too! Completing her rounds for the day, Denise decided to make one last stop before visiting Joanie. The gift shop! So many of the patient's rooms were filled with flowers, plants and cards, but Joanie's room was bare. Of course, if she'd had family close by... But, she did! Denise was sure, by now, that she was Joanie's daughter. She wanted to get her something, not elaborate, just a little something. She looked around in the little shop until she found it! Just a little

ceramic coffee mug, filled with pretty multi- colored silk flowers. The mug was yellow, with pink designs and said 'FRIENDS*. It was perfect, and relatively inexpensive, Denise decided, as she paid the clerk. She entered Joanie's room with the gift behind her back. Joanie said brightly, as she saw her, "There's the girl with the sparkle in her eyes!" "Why do you say that?" Denise asked, laughing. "I've been hearing such things a lot lately!" "Well, there's something definitely different about you, the last few days. Say, what are you hiding there?" Denise handed Joanie the gift, and watched as Joanie's eyes misted, and she thanked her. Joanie placed the cup of flowers in the center of her bedside table, and commented, "That sure brightens things up in here! I love those colors. I hope you didn't spend much!" "I'm glad you like it, Joanie. I see you're out of that traction set-up! Are you enjoying your new freedom?" "You bet! And the physical therapist came in today! He's gonna start teaching me to walk with crutches tomorrow. The doctor said I'll probably be ready to go home Friday or Saturday!" "Hey, that's great!" Denise replied. "But, how? You can't go home alone! Who's gonna take care of you?" She asked anxiously. "That's all been taken care of!" Joanie informed her, excitedly. "You remember I told you about my older brother's family who live in Colorado? Well, he had a daughter, Pam, who's been going to college, but she's free for the summer, and she's coming down to help me get back on my feet. She'll probably be here sometime tomorrow. I hope you can meet her. She's really sweet." "Oh, I'm glad. I would have been worried about you, you know, if you didn't have someone to help you! I hope I do get to meet her," Denise said sincerely. "Now, back to those sparkling eyes! What's going on with you, Denise? You seem very happy! Are you in love?" Joanie asked, teasingly.

"No! In fact, I just broke up with my boyfriend. But you're right! I am happier than I've ever been." "Then he must not have been too good for you. It sounds like you're better off without him. Had you been seeing him long?" "Oh, about six months, I guess. He's a pretty nice guy, and he's real good looking. It won't be hard for him to find someone else. I've just changed, I'm not the same person I used to be." Pausing for just a minute, she explained, "I've accepted Jesus into my life, and that's the difference that everybody is seeing, I'm sure!" Denise explained, hoping Joanie would understand. "I'm very happy for you, Denise. I remember when I first accepted the Lord. It was wonderful! It was right after I held my little baby in my arms that one time. Then I knew that there had to be a God to have created something so beautiful, and so precious from something so terrifying and awful. I had been taught about the Lord all my life, but it had never really made any sense to me until then. And I've never been the same since. It's a wonderful thing, to serve the Lord," Joanie added. Denise sensed a new bond with this new, pretty friend, who was probably her biological mother. Whether or not the truth ever came out, Denise felt she would always love her. "You seem so mature for your age. How old are you, Denise?" Joanie quizzed curiously. "Sixteen! And I'll be a Junior at school in the fall," Denise answered proudly, feeling just a little uncomfortable. She wondered if Joanie had any suspicions about Denise being her daughter. Of course not! She didn't know enough about her to be suspicious, Denise quickly decided. But, then Joanie asked, "When is your birthday, Denise? I'd like to remember it, since we've become pretty good friends", she said, almost apologetically. Hesitating longer than appropriate, trying to decide how to answer without sounding gongs in Joanie's head, Denise said simply, "July 10th." Watching Joanie's eyes, Denise was amazed by the lack of surprise.

There was a moment of silence, then Joanie said, "Well, that's quite a coincidence, isn't it! You know, I can hardly wait for you to meet Pam." She continued, "you two have a lot in common. "How's that?" Denise questioned, wondering what she could possibly have in common with this stranger, Joanie's niece. "Oh, you'll find out!" Joanie stated with an odd little laugh. How strange, Denise thought as she looked at her watch, realizing she had visited much longer than she had intended. She'd have to hurry to get changed, eat supper and get to the youth service that was held immediately before the Bible study at church. Apologizing for her abruptness, she said good-bye and hurried home, wondering all the way what she and "Pam" could possibly have in common!

CONFIRMATION
Chapter 22

The youth service had been fun! Several of the kids Denise knew from high school were there, mostly girls, but a few boys. Of course, Roger was in charge. He wasn't actually called a Youth Director, but in effect, he was one, since he taught young people's Sunday School class and was also the leader of the youth services. He was really perfect for it since he was young too, Denise thought, and knew how to have fun with the rest of them. But, he also knew how to command respect and obedience, which was essential to a good leader of any kind, she decided. They had opened the meeting with prayer, then sang several contemporary worship songs, had a brief teaching, very informally, with everyone sitting in a circle, and had open discussion on 'peer pressure vs Godly conscience'. The refreshments, provided by alternating parents in the church, were then served. There was a short time left for a game, Roger said, afterwards, in which the majority voted for a 'sword drill'. Roger explained to Denise

that it was a game where scripture verses were called out and everyone tried to be first in finding the actual verses, and had to read it aloud, as proof. The one who found the most scriptures first, during the time allowed, was the winner. Of course, Roger was keeping score! Denise was so embarrassed! She hardly knew the books of the Bible, much less which one was where! She made a promise to herself, and to God, that she would study hard to become familiar with His Word, and where to find it! But no one dared mention that Denise had not succeeded even once, she supposed since she was new in the group. Thankful for that, she went with the others to the Bible study in the main auditorium, surprised that she found Roger walking along beside her. She was even more suprised when he sat down beside her as she found Nana and Papa's pew. The 'in-depth' Bible study, led by the Pastor, was interesting, but left a lot of questions in Denise's mind. Man, did she ever have a lot to learn. Well, she probably would be learning the rest of her life, she told herself, refusing to get bogged down in the details of the things she didn't yet understand. In the process of exchanging greetings and good-byes after church, Denise overheard Papa inviting Roger to go to Todd's ballgame with them. Oh, that's tomorrow night, Denise realized. hoping Roger would go. He was fun to be with, and such a sincere guy, so different from Jon! She heard Roger comment that it sounded like fun, and that he would enjoy going. Denise caught Papa's eye and gave him an approving smile. By the time they arrived back at the farm, it was already bedtime. And Denise was feeling sleepy and tired, so they all went right to bed. Denise was thankful for a clear conscience and the peace and joy of the Lord as she drifted off to sleep. A loud, continuous 'beep-beep-beep* aroused Denise, as she realized it was time to get up, if she was going to get any studying done before going to the hospital. But she felt so tired! She could sleep another hour, she decided, and start the Bible study program tomorrow. One more day won't make that much difference, she reasoned to herself. But, her conscience was sharpened, and she made herself get out of

bed, get into the shower in order to get awakened thoroughly. She had made a promise to herself and to God, and she was going to keep it! Awake and alert, now, she sat at the small desk in her room. She hadn't heard anyone else up yet, and was glad, as she still felt a little awkward about reading and praying. She read, beginning with the Gospel of St. John, Chapter 1, as Papa had suggested some time back. She wasn't sure she understood it all, but she was trying, anyway. She remembered how Roger had talked about 'putting on the armor', so she turned to Ephesians 6:13, which was marked for her. Reading through it once, she started her confession as Roger had instructed her, paraphrasing the sentences to make it personal. Denise still didn't understand all that Roger had told her about putting on the armor of God, but she did realize it was to prepare her for spiritual battles. Having done this, she began to just talk to her new heavenly Father, thanking him for the priviledge of being His child, and asking to be taught his will. The day well begun for Denise, she heard Nana and Papa stirring in their bedroom. Looking at the clock, she put other things aside and began to dress for the day. When Denise finally got to the nurse's station, she noticed all the nurse's busily talking in a group. She wondered what was going on. Maybe a new patient, she thought, although it was seldom that one was admitted who could cause this much excitement! When they saw Denise standing at the window, Denise noticed the excitement increase. "What's the deal?" she asked curiously. "Denise, you wouldn't believe who is in Joanie Weston's room. She looks just like you! I thought you'd gotten your hair cut when I saw her! I couldn't believe my eyes when I found out it wasn't you, after all! Confused and curious, Denise had to investigate. Surely, they were exaggerating! But, when she opened the door to Joanie's room, she looked at Pam, who, with short, curly, strawberry blonde hair, sky blue oval eyes, and long dark lashes, looked just like Denise's mirror image, except, perhaps a little older, more sophisticated. The girl stared at Denise, evidently thinking the same thing, Then the

two stared at Joanie in disbelief. "Pam, this is Denise. Denise, I've told you about Pam. my niece. I'm glad you two could meet. As you can see, you two look an awfully lot alike. You both look very much like my mother, Pam's grandmother. She passed away several years ago." Joanie hesitated, looking down for a moment. Then, looking up again, continued, "I've got some pictures, Denise, if you'd like to see them. I suspect that she is your grandmother, too. I hope you're not disappointed if it proves out that you're my daughter!" Glancing at Pam, then turning back to Joanie, Denise said, "No, I'm not at all disappointed, Joanie. I've been pretty sure ever since that first visit, with the birthdates being the same. It's a real relief to me, to know that I was loved, especially by someone as sweet and nice as you!" And in a moment of impulse, Denise leaned forward, and hugged Joanie tightly. Joanie returned the embrace lovingly, as Pam watched, speechless. It was a happy time. Tearful, but brief, as Denise had to get back to work. Promising to return as soon as she could, she left the room. Almost dazed, very happy, and still amazed at the likeness of her cousin, she made her rounds with the same smile and attentiveness that her patients loved. Before leaving the hospital that day, Denise, Joanie and Pam had a good visit, exchanging addresses, phone numbers, and made promises to exchange photographs. Denise hugged them both, promising to visit more tomorrow, then hurried off to get ready for Todd's ballgame. It was about fifty miles away, so they would have to leave early. "Oh, Denise, honey, you're not gonna believe what the Lord has done!" Nana exclaimed, as Denise walked through the kitchen door on arrival. I got a phone call from Belgium today! You mother called to talk to me!" "Is Dad OK? What happened? Why did she call?" Denise questioned anxiously. She knew the feelings Mom had toward Nana, so it had to be something really important! "Oh, Honey, the Lord is so good! You know that we've been praying for your mom and dad for years, that the Lord would open their spiritual

eyes, and reveal His love to them. Well, Dorrie said something about getting 'Peter and Paul' for tour companions this last few days, and apparently, they ministered to them. Anyway, Dorrie called just to ask me and Papa to forgive her, and said that she was so sorry, and that she had been so wrong about everything! It was a different girl that I talked to today, Honey, a girl I knew a long, long time ago! Praise the Lord, our prayers have been answered!" "Nana, I don't know what to say. Are you sure that's what she meant? You know, she was pretty set in her theories. Are they still gonna be home this weekend?" Denise asked. "No, in fact, she asked if I would go ahead, and help you get your school shopping done. This couple that they got hooked up with asked them to tour the Holy Land with them, so they're gonna be a few days late. But, I'm just thrilled. I can't wait for my little girl to come back!" Denise grinned shyly. She couldn't believe her grandmother was talking like that about her mother! But, who would ever have thought that a trip to Europe for her parents could bring so many changes to their lives, hers, Moms and Dads! Yes, it had to be an answer to Nana and Papa's faithful prayers! A little while later, riding in Nana's older, but luxurious car, Papa drove by a farm not far from his own to pick up Roger. "Papa, I didn't know Roger lived out here! I just assumed he lived in town!" Denise said suprised. "Oh, yeah. He's been living out here ever since the Alexander's moved off to Houston. I'm suprised you didn't know it." Papa responded playfully, looking at her in the rear view mirror. It didn't take Roger long to come out. Nana offered to let him sit in front, volunteering to ride in back with Denise, but Roger insisted it would be a pleasure to share the seat with Denise, and had everybody laughing. Denise caught a pleased glance between Nana and Papa as Roger climbed into the backseat. "Well, hello, Denise. How are you, tonight?" Roger asked playfully, as the car returned to the dirt road. "I'm just fine, Roger. How are you," Denise responded, laughing. "You know, I thought you lived in town all this time. I didn't know you had bought this farm. That's really a nice place!"

"Bought? Did you say I bought it? I wish! Actually, I lucked out and got a chance to lease it. But it is a nice place. Hopefully, I can buy it someday." Papa asked, interrupting the conversation, "Got any new calves yet? They're about due, aren't they, Roger?" "Yeah, I got a new one this morning, a little Angus bull. Got four more due sometime this month." Roger answered. "That's neat, Roger, can I see the calf sometime?" Denise asked, enthusiastically. "Hey, you, back there! I've got some calves and you haven't even stepped out the door to see them!" Papa reminded Denise. "That's not fair. Papa! Your calves are half grown and they're not cute like newborns!" Denise defended herself. Nana was laughing continuously at this friendly bantering. But, the conversation eventually lulled, and Denise's mind began to wander. This would be a strange weekend, she thought. Mom and Dad wouldn't be home this weekend, after all. And it would be her first weekend without Jon to think of, and plan for. Life would never again be 'normal'. Jon would be coming home on weekends, but not coming to see her. It would be really strange. She hadn't changed her mind about Jon, but still, it would be strange seeing him in town on weekends, and not being with him. And what was it going to be like when Mom and Dad did come home? If Nana was right, and they had changed their minds about the Lord, then things were really gonna be strange! But, good, she concluded. Perhaps, then, they wouldn't be disappointed about her decision to follow Christ. She could hardly believe so much had happened since they left for Europe-it had only been five weeks! She had found out about her 'real' mother, and loved her, and met her 'real' cousin, whom she immediately liked very much, and believed they would probably be great friends. Of course, Denise hadn't shared this story with anyone? Perhaps, if she prayed about it...

Denise hadn't seen Amanda, Jon's little sister much lately, but she did miss her. Maybe, during the week, when Jon was gone, she could still spend some time with her. She wondered if breaking up with Jon would affect his parents' feelings toward her. Hopefully they would still like her, especially, since they were good friends with Mom and Dad. Interrupting her thoughts, Nana asked Denise how things were with Joanie today. "I still haven't gone to meet and visit with her. I have continued to pray for her, though." Nana explained. Denise leaned forward in her seat to answer Nana. "She's probably going home tomorrow. She's out of traction and the physical therapist is teaching her to use crutches. Her niece from Colorado came down to stay with her for a while after she goes home. I met her today, and she's really nice. I got Joanie's address and phone number. We've agreed to stay in touch," Denise said, wondering what Nana would think if she knew the rest of the story. "That's good. It sounds like everything has worked out well for her. Look! There's the ball park! It sure is crowded." Nana continued, changing the subject. They just had time to get seated on the bleachers when the game started. Todd's team was up to bat first, and Roger, Papa, Nana and Denise joined the crowd in cheering. The team was playing good, with two runs already in when Todd's turn came to bat. The tension was mounting! And he struck out! Yelling, "it's OK, Todd", his family responded as if he had done great, anyway. "Better luck next time around!" Denise heard others calling to her little brother, too. The visiting team soon had their turn outfield. Todd was playing first base, and it was soon plain to see he knew his job. And he was hustling! Roger and Papa left for the concession stand during the second inning, returning with a lot of goodies to munch on. Then it was Todd's turn to bat again. This time, he got a good hit at the second ball thrown, but by the time he got to first base, they had it! He was out, again, but

the runner on third base got home, so it was not a total loss. The score so far was 10-3, in the Todd's team's favor. The next inning went even better for the team. Todd got three players out on first base, ending that round, then, up to bat again. This time, Todd hit a good ball, getting to second base before his ball was secured. The game continued and the tension mounted during the fifth inning, when the opposing team scored four runs! The hour and half game ended with a score of 10-7, Todd's team's favor! Everyone in the stands were going crazy, Denise noted happily. And she was one of them. She was so proud of her little brother. It was a real shame that Mom and Dad couldn't have been here for the game. They sought out Todd immediately, pounding him on the back, telling him he played a good game. After congratulating the players, finding, and visiting briefly with Grandma and Grandpa Whitaker, they began the trip home. The engine purred along in the darkness, as Roger leaned toward Denise. "How are things with your boyfriend," he asked quietly. "Needed any rescuing lately?" He smiled, jokingly, but in the dim light of the car, Denise could see him watching her closely. "No. And you won't have to worry about that, anymore, Roger. I broke up with Jon, Sunday, right after church. " "Really? How do you feel about that, now, Denise? You seemed to really care for him." "I thought I did, Roger, but I found out that the love I had for Jon was a selfish kind of love. I enjoyed his attention, and he made me feel secure. But, it doesn't compare at all to the love and security that I've found in the Lord! I've never been happier, Roger! And, though I wish it could have been different, I know that Jon and I just couldn't have made it over the long haul! But, I know now that my Heavenly Father knows what I need, and I believe that He has someone better for me. "I'm so glad, Denise! Your grandparents and I have been praying for you a long time. He has sure answered our prayers! I'm very proud of you", Roger said, the sincerity showing in his eyes. "And isn't it wonderful that your parents have come to the Lord! That's quite a miracle, from what I understand. But, you know, our God doesn't just work with individuals, he works in families!"

"Yeah, it really is fantastic. I was really worried about how they would accept 'the new me'. But, I guess there's gonna be a lot of changes around our house, for all of us!" Denise remembered all the times she had sat, and listened to Roger teaching Sunday School lessons. And the time he rescued her after Jon had pushed her out of the car, leaving her in the middle of nowhere. She remembered the time her patient had died, and Roger comforted her. And the times he had spent praying with her, and the recent Bible studies. The Lord had used him to help her, to try to reach her many times. He hadn't been there every time she needed help, but God had. Her God, her Lord! He had loved her even when she wasn't walking with him, wasn't trusting Him, didn't even believe in Him, but He had been there all the time. What a love! A love that would never hurt her, or leave her. A love that would last forever! "Roger," Denise said softly, as she gently layed her hand on his, "thank you. Because of you, I've found the love I was looking for. I've finally found what really counts! A love from above!" THE END New Life Ministries * nlm@sonoratx.net http:www.newlifeministries-sonora-tx.org/