Words Can Hurt

by girlmoustakis

This is a combination Touched By An Angel Story/Love Boat story. It involves a new Angel, Miguel, who comes to help two characters of mine, the Hopkins brothers. Arthur is alive again. This is an in-between story. Reviews welcome.

WORDS CAN HURT

BY

HENRIETTE PRUGER

A young small-framed Latino Angel sits in heaven and is working a crossword puzzle. Larry walks up to him.

"Hey, Miguel."

"Hello, Larry."

"What you doing?"

"A puzzle. What's a ten-letter word for job?

"Assignment. You've got one. Close the book. I have to explain it to you."

"Why can't you do it?"

"The parties involved know me. I was married to one. I have to stay away. My presence would foil it."

He does.

"I'm all ears. What do I do?"

"Prevent a volcano from erupting."

"A real one?"

"As real as two humans can be. They knew me when I was alive. They're two brothers who love each other but hate each other more. Separately, they're fine. Together they erupt."

"What do I have to do?"

"Stop the disaster from happening. You have to stay neutral and unknown to the very end. Then you can announce your true identity. Your name will be Miguel but you will go by Mike. You'll need this."

Larry gives him a Bible.

"A Bible?"

"It's your cover. You play a Bible student. Don't preach to him. Let him accept you first. There's no need to preach on this assignment. Just keep both brothers alive and very separate."

"Sounds easy."

"You don't know the brothers. My husband has a bad temper. He's wanted to murder his brother on many occasions. He makes Cain and Abel look like a fairy tale."

"Got you. Give me the details."

"You're going on a cruise, the Love Boat."

"Exciting and new," Miguel sings.

"That very one. You'll have your own cabin with two beds. You'll be getting a roommate, my former husband. The purser will contact you when the war begins. Until they do, enjoy the cruise. Get some sun. Take advantage of the buffets; work on your puzzles if you want. Relax."

Larry makes a suitcase appear and give it to him.

"The cruise is five nights. This is enough clothes for your assignment. This is your boarding pass."

Miguel looks at the pass and shakes his head.

"There's a problem, Larry. I need a secondary name on this pass."

"Good point. We'll think of one."

Larry looks around for inspiration and sighs.

"Use De Angelo. Your name will be Miguel De Angelo. Mike for short."

"Like the painter."

"It's good for starting conversation. You'll need it with my ex. You see they were given a duo cabin. The cruise line didn't know about their personalities. That's the volcanic part. Did you ever hear of Mt. Vesuvius?"

"Is my goal to get them to forgive each other?"

"You're goal is to stop them from killing each other. The forgiveness will be your last duty if you think it will work. Don't push it. It might not. You better pack your puzzles. The ship leaves in a few hours. If you look down you can see the exit port."

"Nice ship."

"Now let me tell you more about their personalities, starting with my ex."

…..

Noel gets out of a cab and looks at the ship.

"Nice."

He hears his name and turns. Arthur goes up to him.

"Where have you been?"

"The cab was late."

"Tell me again how and why we're here," Arthur asks.

"The cruise line hired us a team. Don't ask me how they got our names, but they did. We're a double act. I asked my agent for some publicity but I didn't know he called the Love Boat. I wish he did Vegas instead."

"That makes both of us. Pull out your pass. We'll get our cabins."

They walk up the ramp to the door. A man has a list. They hand in their passes.

"Mr. Jackson, your cabin is Delta 2B. So is yours, Mr. Hopkins."

"We're sharing the same cabin? I specifically asked for a single room. I wanted privacy," Arthur says."

"Sorry, we're fully booked. At the next port of call people will leave. You just have to wait a few days."

The brothers take their passes back.

"It's only one day, Art. Then we're both free," Noel says.

"I'm going to regret this. I can feel it."

Miguel comes as the brothers go into the ship. He enters the ship. Larry shows up.

"One more thing, Miguel. I can't help you on this. They must not see me. You're on your own. Break a leg."

Miguel follows them and the three go up the stairs.

…

The two brothers enter their cabin, look around and both claim their beds

"Look, we have a balcony, just like the commercials," Noel says.

"Beds are big enough. This isn't steerage," Arthur says.

"I only use them to sleep."

"They have other uses."

"Look, Art, I know you like girls but not here. This is where I sleep. You are married with four children. Remember that. You're not on tour. You're working with me. I don't know what my agent was thinking, teaming me up with you."

"It's only for a week. We lived together at home."

"Dad broke up our fights. There's no one here for that. I didn't come here to fight."

"Neither did I, Joe. Kill the attitude."

"My attitude? You have one yourself. Don't you start here?"

"Heil!" Arthur says clicking his heals and raising his arm.

Noel's eyes open up.

"Don't do that again. Your wife is Jewish and your children are half. No Nazi jokes in my presence. This ship is almost boarded. We leave soon. I'm going to explore it so I don't get lost. We meet the band at one. I'll see you there."

Noel storms out. Arthur salutes again and starts unpacking.

"This will be a long five days."

…..

Noel goes on the top deck. He sits in a sedan chair. Miguel takes one a few chairs down. He pulls out a puzzle book. Noel looks at the water. The wind blows in his thinning hair. He is disgusted. He hears the horn start and the voices of people on the other side. The ship is finally leaving. He looks to see Miguel who smiles at him.

"Hello," Noel says.

"Hello."

"Why aren't you with the others?"

"I have no one to say good-bye to. I'm alone. My name is Miguel De Angelo."

"I'm Noel Jackson."

"Why aren't you with the crowd?"

"I'm working this trip. I'm half the entertainment."

"The singer with Hopkins?"

"Guilty. You like puzzles?"

"Word puzzles."

"I like words too. I write songs, sing and record them. Words are nice."

"Not all words. Words said in anger can be very hard. They hurt," Miguel says.

"Tell me about it. I've been there. Will you be at the show?"

"That depends. What are you doing?"

"We're doing a musical history of songs starting from the forties' to the eighties. Everything after that is pure garbage. Music has suffered."

"Talk about bad words."

"There's no variety now. That's why my brother and I stand out. He does rock and I do country. Performers like the Beatles are gone."

He stands.

"I'm going to continue checking the ship. The only ships I saw were on Love Boat reruns. I want to see the real thing without the fake water backgrounds. Try and make the show."

"I'll do that."

"Enjoy your puzzles."

Noel walks away. Larry appears and sits on the next chair.

"So that was your husband?"

"He takes a while to get to love. He has to grow on you."

"He doesn't seem difficult."

"He isn't until he's with his brother. Then his monster comes out. Just think Cain and Abel."

"I know you told me what my assignment is but what if I can calm the monster and fix the two brothers?"

"Jesus couldn't do it. Just do what I ask. Keep them separate and alive."

"I could try and help."

"You would do what Jesus can't?"

"Couldn't hurt. It wouldn't change anything if I fail."

"Miguel, I know a lost cause when I see it. Arthur was my test when I became an Angel. He can be a nightmare. Suit yourself, but ask the boss first. He may send a stronger Angel for the job."

Larry disappears. Miguel is alone on the desk and looks up.

"Father, it's me Miguel. I know you heard our conversation. I mean what I say. I want to help those two men to openly love each other. They're brothers. They should. Do you give me permission to try? If I fail, I fail. As long as I do my first assignment that's all that counts."

He signs.

"It's usually the Angel who's afraid of failing and God to tell them to succeed. Let's reverse it. I promise to do my best. I know they both have love in their hearts for you. I just want to expand that love to each other. What do you say, boss? May I try?...Thank you. I won't fail you. You know me. I love happy endings. I want this to have one."

He closes his puzzle book and walks away.

…

The two brothers have just finished rehearsing with the band. They are both taking last minute notes for the show. Arthur puts his notes in his shirt pocket. Noel continues speaking to the band.

"Any questions before I leave?" Arthur asks.

"No. I just need to speak to the band. You can go. I'll see you in the cabin."

Two young women watch them.

"So, that's what they look like? I'll take the brunette. You take the other one."

"They're both married."

"Did that ever stop anyone, not me? It's time to bribe the purser. See you later."

She walks away. The other one still watches Noel as he speaks to the band.

"No, thanks. Not interested. Too married."

She walks away.

…

Arthur is in the gift shop buying some snacks. As he goes to the register he goes by a rack of condoms. He thinks for a moment. A few girls come in and he checks them out.

"I hope they go to the pool."

He looks at the rack, grabs some and heads for the register. Miguel follows him carrying more puzzle books.

….

Arthur walks to the top deck, finds a railing and leans on it. The wind blows through his thick hair. Miguel goes and stands a few feet away from him. Arthur sees him and smiles.

"Hello," Miguel says.

"Hello."

"Nice day. It's cool and not hot."

"That's true. I hope it gets hotter tomorrow. They have a great pool here."

"You swim?"

"Yes, but that's not why I go. I enjoy the view and not the water."

"You mean the girls?"

"I'm not dead yet. It's a joke from Monty Python."

"I know the reference. Is that why you bought the condoms? I was behind you in the store. You bought three candy bars and four of the others."

"Were you following me?"

"No, I was buying more puzzle books. I like doing them. They're by the register."

"Why don't I believe you?"

"Why would I lie? I don't know you."

"I don't do diapers. Okay? If I meet someone, I don't want to pay child support."

"You think ahead. That's good. What is that gold band on your left hand? You're married."

"I'm married and this conversation is now over. Enjoy your puzzles."

Arthur walks away.

"Damn it! That went well. Now I know what I'm faced with. Larry, it's time to declare war. This Angel will not fail."

Miguel looks around. The game of social politics has begun. Boys chase girls. Girls pretend not to be interested. And finally gives in when they see the right boys. He shakes his head.

"Father, I know you said be fruitful and multiply. But you didn't mean this. The devil must be behind it. I see a lot of gold bands and they're not for the same couples. What ever happened to the adultery commandment?"

Miguel walks away.

…..

Arthur opens the door to the cabin. He looks at his bed and sees a half-naked woman in his bed. He is stunned.

"How did you get in?"

"I bribed someone. Disappointed?"

"Just surprised."

"Would you like me to leave?"

He pats his shirt pocket and smiles.

"Usually I pick the girl and do the mating ritual. But in this case, I don't want you to leave."

He turns and locks the door.

…..

Noel leaves the cabaret and walks down the hall. Miguel walks in the opposite direction. They meet at the intersection.

"We meet again," Miguel says.

"It's not such a big ship. It can happen. More puzzle books?"

"I finished the ones I had. The gift shop had new ones."

"You should be on Jeopardy. I can't get over you. You're on the Lust Boat and you'd rather do crosswords? Are you an alien from outer space?"

"I'm from Earth, no alien."

"Can I see them?" Noel asks.

"Go ahead. We can work on some together," Miguel says.

"Sounds like fun. I'm not into this lust thing. I got a few hours to kill. Let's find a place to sit," Noel says.

"I was hoping you'd say that. I see some vacant chairs by the pool. The girls should be out."

"Not interested. I have a wife I love back home. I don't cheat on her. I made a vow to her and God. And I'm not breaking either. My brother that's a different story. I am not him."

"That is nice to hear. Let's get those chairs."

"We need pencils."

"I just happen to have two," Miguel says pulling two from his pocket.

They head to the chairs and sit down. Miguel looks at the imprinted chess board on the table. He caresses it with his hand.

"Noel, how are you on chess?"

"Too intellectual. I prefer checkers."

"I'll get the chips," Miguel says rising.

"I'll get the drinks. What do you want?"

"You know the plain bloody Mary mix. It's good, just like V8. Get mine with two stalks of celery. No booze."

"Sounds good. Two virgin bloody Mary's coming right up."

Miguel walks away. Time passes and the two have attracted a crowd. It's mostly girls in bikinis. One leans behind Noel. Her breasts are much too close. He turns his face and hits them. He puts his hand on one and pushes it away.

"Miss, could you please move your breasts away from my face? I have to concentrate," Noel says.

"Sorry. I just see your next move."

"So do I. And I'm the one playing. Kindly, don't stand so close to my face."

He looks back to the board and makes his move. Miguel smiles and jumps over all of Noel's pieces.

"I win."

"Mike, you've won two games straight."

"I know. Want a third?"

"What's your secret?"

"There's not much to do back home. I play chess and checkers."

"And where is home?"

"A place very far away."

"Are you sure you're not an alien?"

"Positive."

"I'm gamed out. I'm going to hit the sack. See you at breakfast," Noel says standing and walking away.

Miguel shakes his head. He knows what he will find in his cabin.

…..

Noel opens the door to his cabin and turns on the lights. Arthur is with a woman. He is very involved. He turns and covers his eyes with his hand.

"Jesus Christ!" Noel cries.

"Joe, kill the light."

"I was afraid of this. I will give you one hour to dump the girl and put some clothes on. I sleep here too."

Arthur starts to get up.

"Stay where you are. I don't want to see you naked. When I get home I am going to have a LONG talk with my agent."

He leaves.

….

Noel storms down the hall. He is pissed. He goes back to the pool. Miguel has gone.

"Where's Mike when you need him?"

He sits on a sedan chair.

"Now where do I go?"

His phone rings. Miguel can see him and listens.

"Hello?... Angie, just the voice I wanted to hear. I miss you so…You bet I'm upset. The cruise line put us in the same cabin. It's a nightmare. I just walked in and he's humping away. Where does he get these girls?...I gave him one hour to end what he's doing and I will call reservations to get my own cabin… I wish you were here. I miss you and the kids. How is everyone?...Tell them Daddy loves them. I'll get some souvenirs at our first port…I love you so. I can't wait to see you…Now I have to get something to do for an hour. I'm tired and I want to sleep in my own bed…I can't wait for your next call. Hopefully tomorrow I will have my OWN cabin. Love you."

He hangs up and sighs. He looks at his watch.

"Fifty-three minutes to go. This will be a long night."

Miguel walks away back to his cabin.

…..

Noel enters the cabin. Arthur sits on the bed fully dressed.

"I waited."

"Good. We have to talk. I want out of the cabin. I want to be able to sleep when I want to. I'm glad I didn't unpack."

Noel picks up the phone and dials.

"Reservations, please. Thank you…My name is Noel Jackson. I share a cabin with Arthur Hopkins. I'm glad you found me. I want a separate cabin, now…What do you mean the ship is fully booked? It's huge. I don't want any roommates…All you have are roommates available?...I don't care if there are no windows or balconies. Give me steerage. I don't care where you put me…Give a roommate then. I have no preferences. I'll even take Mother Theresa…Good. Call me as soon as you find one. I'll be in this current cabin waiting for your call. Thank you."

He puts down the phone and glares at Arthur.

"Say something, Joe. I know you want to."

"I am sick of you putting your dick into every woman you meet. You have a wife and four children. Think of them. Just because they're back in Chicago doesn't mean you don't hurt them every time you do this."

"She was here when I came back. She bribed her way into this cabin. She waited in the bed."

"I don't believe that. You had no part in chasing her?"

"Not this time."

"You couldn't say "Miss, please put some clothes on. The door is in front of you. Please use it.""

"You were going to be late and she was pretty."

"Every naked woman is pretty in the dark."

"It wasn't dark then."

"I really want out, Art. At this point, I don't care who my roommate will be. I wish they'd call back soon."

The phone rings and Arthur picks it up.

"Hello?...He's right here. It's for you," Arthur says giving him the phone and sitting on the bed.

"Hello?...Yes, it's Jackson. Do you have my cabin yet?...I have to wait until tomorrow for a private cabin?...Okay, give me the cabin number. I'll meet you in a few minutes. I can take a roommate for one night. Just not the one I currently have."

He writes the number.

"I'll meet you by the door. Thank you."

Noel hangs up.

"One day you will regret the life you've been living. Sherrie is the only one that really loves you. I don't know why anymore. I wouldn't," Noel says taking his bags and turning to Arthur.

"You've made your point, Joe."

He heads for the door and turns.

"Don't forget the show. It starts at eight."

He leaves the cabin.

"I hope it is Mother Theresa. You deserve it."

….

Noel stands outside another door with the purser.

"Here's your key. The current tenant knows you're coming. Good luck. There should be some vacant cabins at the next dock. People use us as a bus service."

"Thank you."

The purser walks away and Noel knocks on the door and waits. The door opens and it's Miguel. Noel is surprised.

"Mike?"

"Hello, Noel. When they asked me I couldn't refuse. Come in."

He does. The cabin is small but has two beds. There is no window or balcony. It is steerage.

"Choose your bed."

"This is strange. We meet the first day and end up as roommates. Thanks Mike. I couldn't take my brother anymore. I went back to my cabin, opened the door and there he is humping away with some bimbo. That's the reason they call it the Lust Boat."

"Poor Noel."

Noel sees the Bible on a bed and picks it up.

"Is this your Bible?"

"I'm a Bible student."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"You didn't ask."

"How does a bible student afford a cruise?"

"He buys a raffle ticket. I wanted to help my school. We had a flood that damaged our auditorium. My roommate couldn't make it. He had a family emergency."

"Are you a bible thumper?"

"No. My relationship with God is personal I don't like thumping anyone. Is there a problem?"

"No, actually it's a relief. You I can trust. You wouldn't lie to me. So what do we do now? It's still early."

"I was thinking of getting fresh air on the top deck. I like looking up at the stars. I feel close to God," Miguel says.

"I do that to. I live in a small town, populations thirteen. Don't blink. You'll miss rush hour. There is a park bench outside of town. It's our Greyhound bus stop. I sit on the bench and look up, like you. I just avoid Phoenix. It's too bright."

"Let's go see God."

….

They arrive at the top deck and lean on the railing.

"Now that's more like it," Noel says.

"Now that we're alone, let's talk. As my roommate I don't know you, Noel. I know you are ½ of our entertainment only. Tell me about, Noel."

"To start with, Noel is my new legal name. I was born Joseph Hopkins. I'm Arthur's brother. I left Chicago, changed my name when I was twenty, got into my husband's car and drove west to find a town where I could get lost. I found Nowhere, Arizona."

"Where was your husband?"

"Dead. Larry died in a robbery. He was only twenty. He wanted to save someone's life. After he passed, I broke down and left."

"What was he like? Does it bother you to talk about him?"

"I love to talk about him. He was my lover and my best friend. He had a good sense of humor and a hyena laugh. Don't get me wrong. He was quite a disciplinarian. I was restless in my youth and was always in trouble. When he saw me say or do something wrong, he would say in a quiet low voice, "I wouldn't do that, Joe. Think twice before you do it again". And I wouldn't do it again."

"Why so reckless?"

"I came out when I was fourteen. Larry was my best friend. We fell in love and became lovers at sixteen. His father was transferred to another city. Larry, a minor, had to go with him. I didn't see him for years. At eighteen I looked into classes but I couldn't afford them. I joined the army so they would pay for school. All I had to do was one tour. I never finished it. A patrol I was on was ambushed by the Taliban. Six went out and only I came back. I was badly wounded."

"My Dad works for BP. In those days he had to negotiate oil deals personally. He came to my base and I told him everything, including Larry. I needed physical therapy to walk again. When I could use a cane they sent me home. Dad met me at the airport. A man stood by him with his back turned. My parents had located Larry. We were married a weeks later and very happy until his death. Life can be a bitch. Next question?"

"Did the army label you as disabled?"

"Mentally and physically. But I got my money for school and became a computer geek. I even killed my assassin. He was the Arab national who ran the gun range on the base. I went there every morning and became the best shot on the base. I saw him point that gun on me and yelled "No way, asshole". It felt good to kill him. It was him or me."

"Sometimes you have to kill. I overheard you speaking to your wife. When did that happen?"

"I worked the bar in town and did the town garbage. She was the boss's daughter. We became friends and I fell in love."

"With a woman?"

"With a person. She's beautiful inside and out. We have three kids. I'm very happy. Before you ask, I'm a switch-hitter. But whoever I'm with I'm loyal to and their gender. I don't cheat, unlike my brother. Angie and I are not two people in one relationship. We have merged into one person. She is my soul."

Arthur comes to the deck. He leans on the railing. Miguel sees him.

"I think we're being watched," Miguel says.

"That's my brother. Ignore him and he'll go away. Mike, how far is heaven?"

"Very far and very close. It's way up but also in our head and hearts. That's where God is."

"Is he listening to our conversation now?"

"Of course. He's everywhere."

"Do you believe in life on other planets?" Noel asks.

"Yes."

"Do they believe in God too?"

"Only if they're humanoid and not an ameba."

"Don't knock ameba's, Mike. We came from them. Look at us. We're humanoid. Maybe they do believe. I look at the sky and see thousands of lights, stars and planets. Maybe on the other side of the universe two other beings are looking at the night sky and seeing us."

"Then let's wave hello. In a thousand years they'll be able to see it. We'll just be long gone by then," Miguel says.

They both wave. Arthur looks at them in confusion. Miguel looks at him.

"I think your brother is confused. He's probably thinking we're crazy."

"So do I, Mike. Can we stop now? This is getting silly."

They hear some noise up ahead.

"You hear that? I think someone's in trouble. I'll check it out," Noel says walking forward.

He sees a young girl. A man is trying to kiss her but she is refusing. His actions are not consensual. Noel walks up to them and pulls them apart and puts her behind him. He glares at the man.

"Buddy, the girl is not interested. Leave her be."

"You got it wrong. She's crazy about me."

"Then prove it."

Noel turns to the girl.

"Are you crazy about him, Miss?"

She shakes her head no and starts to point to her mouth.

"Are you deaf?"

She nods yes.

"Can you sign?"

She nods again. He looks back at the man.

"I know what's happening. You're trying to force yourself on a disabled deaf girl. There's a name for what you were doing. This girl is terrified. This calls for the Captain's attention. Mike, come over here. We have a problem."

Two more men come from out of the shadows and stand by the first man.

"Three men. One deaf girl. An open closet door. Is that where you wanted to take her?"

The first man pulls and opens a switch blade.

"That's our affair, not yours."

"I won't let it," Noel says.

"Neither will I," Miguel adds.

"One and a half men against three? Your Mexican buddy is too small to defend you."

"Make that three against three," Arthur says joining them.

"We just became even," Noel says.

There is a Mexican standoff.

"Give me the knife. Close it first," Noel says.

"Up yours. We came prepared."

"I can see that. You'll all in nice suits with real full ties. Close the knife and throw it to the ground. I'm tired of being pleasant."

"Do as he says. That makes two of us," Arthur says.

"Remove your ties and give them to my little Mexican friend," Noel orders.

They do.

"Now turn and put your hands above your heads on the wall. Mike, you ever frisk someone?"

"Not yet."

"Watch and learn. Arthur you start. Take a tie and put their arms in back. Gentlemen, I suggest you fall to your knees after your hands are tied."

Arthur and Noel start frisking the three. They remove an arsenal of weapons and put them on the floor and move them away with their feet. The girl watches quietly. The three are put on their knees. Noel looks at the weapons.

"What did you guys plan, a war? Art, go get security. Have them find the Captain and bring him."

"Gotcha."

Arthur leaves.

"Mike, watch the three musketeers. I have to talk to her."

He turns to her and starts signing.

"You know how to sign?"

"My wife was deaf. She's not anymore."

Noel and the girl continue signing. The three men are pissed.

"I thought you said this would be easy. I didn't count on being caught."

"Shut up. You'll get us in even more trouble."

At the end of the conversation, Noel hugs her to calm her. Her mother shows and pulls them apart. She goes from fear to anger and to happiness. He tries to tell her what happened. The girl tells her it's the truth. The mother smiles and kisses Noel on the cheek. He gently pushes her away.

"She's grateful," Noel says in embarrassment.

"I can't tell," Miguel says smiling.

Arthur appears with two security guards and the Captain.

"We're over here," Arthur says.

The three look at the men on the floor in confusion.

"These three gentlemen and I say it lightly, planned to attack the young girl in that open closet. My friend and I heard the disturbance and went to check. This is her mother. They're both deaf but they read lips. The weapons on the floor are their arsenal. We didn't touch them. You can start the investigation now," Noel says.

"Did you get their names?"

"I was more concerned with saving the girl not their names. I am Noel Jackson. This is my roommate Miguel De Angelo and my brother Arthur Hopkins."

"The entertainment?" The Captain asks.

"Guilty as charged," Arthur says.

"How can we interview them?"

"I sign. Just look at their faces. They will sign and I will tell you what they're saying."

"When did you learn to sign?" the Captain asks.

"My wife was deaf. She taught me."

"Thank you for your help."

"I live in a small town, population 13. Her father-in-law is the unofficial mayor. He owns a motel and Angie was the only maid. One night a tenant tried to attack her. My brother dragged him off and knocked him out. I proceeded to lie on top of him and rearrange his face with my fist. Before he was arrested, he had to go to ER first. It took two men to get me off of him."

"He's saying the truth. I was there. I was one of those men. My brother has a killing temper," Arthur says.

"It's a shame this happened. Not even cruise ships are free of crime," the Captain says.

Security starts the investigation and Noel helps. Arthur looks at Miguel.

"Why didn't you tell me you knew me?" Arthur says.

"I didn't. I was just behind you by the register with my puzzle books. Don't blame me if the condoms were by the register," Miguel says.

Noel and security finish.

"Will they understand me if I speak?" the Captain asks.

"Just look them in the face," Noel says.

The Captain goes to the two women.

"The cruise line apologizes for this incident. I know I can't make up for it as I wish. All I can do is invite you to dine with me at the Captain's table tomorrow for dinner. We would consider it an honor if you agree."

The mother nods yes and grabs Noel's arm.

"What's she doing?"

"I think she's inviting me also," Noel says.

"Of course. These three men will be with you. It's understandable,"

"Excuse me, Captain. There's something more I have to say to momma."

He tries and signs to the mother. She agrees, kisses him on the cheek again, grabs the girl and they leave. Again, Noel is embarrassed.

"She's very grateful."

"We can tell. Let's put these three in the brig. Dinner will be 6:30, first seating. I know you will be performing later."

The six leave. Noel looks at Arthur.

"With all those kisses tonight, I should tell your wife," Arthur says.

"At least I didn't go further, unlike you."

"Come on you two. Please stop. A moment ago you worked together. Now you're at war?" Miguel says.

"You're right, Mike. Thank you, Art, for coming to the assistance of these ladies," Noel says.

"I saw you needed help. I wanted to even the odds."

"I didn't need your help. The Taliban couldn't kill me. Neither would three thugs."

"You didn't need my help? Mike here is too small to defend three."

"I didn't need your help. I had it under control."

"Fine. Next time I'll let them stab you. It would add to the scars you have from the Taliban's bullets," Arthur says.

"Gentlemen, please. This is not how this evening should end," Miguel says.

"Maybe it is, Mike. You see my brother doesn't think twice about defending a strange woman's honor. That's how he met his wife. When he found she was rich, he married her. He gave her four kids to seal the deal and then went on with his music life. Now, if she's not with him, HE enjoys himself with other women. But he always goes home to money."

"I resent that Joe."

"Because you know it's the truth. You don't deserve Sherrie or your kids. They love a man who isn't even real."

Arthur starts to speak but stops. He turns and walks away.

"Why did you follow me, Arthur?" Noel asks.

"I wanted to talk. Now I see I've wasted my time," he says, stopping and turning.

He turns and walks. Noel turns to Miguel.

"Sorry you had to hear that."

"Not as sorry as I am for you. You don't even give him a chance."

"Would you?"

"Yes, I AM my brother's keeper."

"Don't be biblical on me, Mike. I can't help it if he's constantly unfaithful. Now you see why I needed to leave the cabin. You know what I'm thinking about right now? I'm thinking we have a musical show tomorrow. And everyone will be able to enjoy it except for two women who can't hear. If I have one wish to ask God, it would be they hear the music. Just the show would be enough. That's what I think it's unfair."

Noel walks away leaving Miguel alone. He looks up.

"Larry, please help me. Tell me what to do," Miguel asks.

Larry appears.

"I can't tell you what to do, Miguel. I can tell you, if you ask the Father, he will give you facts you don't know. When Joe is asleep, ask him. What you do with the information will be up to you."

"Is Noel always that unreasonable?"

"You haven't seen the half of it. At one time, Arthur broke his nose. Just ask the Father."

Larry disappears.

…

Miguel and Noel are in their cabin. Miguel waits until Noel is asleep. He goes to him and waves one hand over him.

"Father, Larry said you would tell me something that would help. Please show me what you know."

He continues waving. An image starts to appear.

….

A twelve-year old Arthur is at home alone with a ten-year old Joe. There is a knock on the door. He opens it to a small group of boys his age enters.

"What' up, guys?"

"We're headed up to the park to shoot some hoops. We came to pick you up."

"I can't. My parents aren't home. I have to watch Joe."

"Come on, ASH. Dump your brother. Come with us."

"Yeah, he is a retard."

"He is not retarded. He's just shy and quiet. Sometimes we don't even know he's in the room."

"He's a retard. Then bring him but come out with us."

Joe comes down the stairs. One boy walks up to him.

"Hello, retard. Want to come to the park with us? Your brother will baby-sit."

"Yeah, retard. Come get some air. Just stay out of our way."

"Hide in the shadows like you always do, retard."

Joe looks at Arthur and shakes his head no.

"He doesn't want to go guys. Leave him alone."

"You'd rather spend time with a baby retard."

"He's my brother. Stop calling him that. You don't know him."

"We know. He's the laughing stock of the neighborhood. All the kids call him names. Come on, retard. Let your brother free for one day."

"Joe, please. Let's go," Arthur asks.

Joe puts his head down in silence.

"ASH, he won't even answer to his name."

"Let's go…retard," Arthur says under his breath.

…

It is later that night. Joe is in his room crying. Arthur enters his room.

"What's wrong, Joe?"

"Do you have to ask? I hate when people call me that."

"They were just joking. They didn't mean it."

He wipes his tears.

"Yes, they did. They meant every word. And so did you. You called me that."

"I didn't mean it either. I just wanted you to leave with me."

"I don't believe you, ASH. Leave me alone. Get out of my room."

He turns his back to him. Arthur shakes his head and leaves. Joe goes back to crying.

…..

The image disappears leaving Miguel stunned.

"Father, now I know where these feelings come from. But how do I erase them. Help me," Miguel says going to his bed.

He lies down but can't sleep.

…

Noel tosses in his sleep. He is in distress. Miguel wakes up as Noel starts screaming "I know you. You will not succeed. No way, asshole!"

Miguel wakes him. Noel is short of breath.

"Why did you wake me?"

"You were screaming in your sleep."

"What was I saying?"

"It was, and I quote "No way, asshole" What were you dreaming?"

Noel sits up.

"It wasn't a dream. It was a memory. It really happened. It was the Taliban ambush. I saw my assassin raise his rifle to me. I recognized him. He was the Arab national who ran the gun range. I shot and killed him. His last bullet hit me and I collapsed into the trunk. The other men were killed and their dead bodies fell on top of me. I was suffocating. I couldn't move. I was so glad when they were lifted off and I could breathe. But I still couldn't move. It hurt too much."

"You had a flashback, Noel. You don't look good. I'll get Arthur. Stay here."

Miguel goes to get some clothes.

"Don't bring him. I don't want him to see me this way. I'll be fine."

"You let me be the judge of that. I'll be right back."

Miguel starts getting dressed as Noel lies down again. He leaves. A few minutes later, Miguel and Arthur enter. Arthur goes to Noel.

"You okay, bro? Mike tells me you had a bad flashback." Arthur asks.

"He was remembering the ambush."

"How do you feel?" Arthur asks.

"I can't breathe. I'm suffocating."

"Let me help you. My boy Alex has bad asthma. I help him with breathing exercises. Try and sit up. Now, take a deep breath, hold it for five seconds and slowly exhale. Do it again. Now try and sit up in bed. Keep doing the exercise. Do you have an inhaler?" Arthur asks.

"I don't have asthma."

"One more breath."

Noel does and he starts rolling his eyes. He is having a seizure. Miguel and Arthur try to control him.

"Lie him down. Give me a pen," Arthur screams.

Miguel does and put it under his tongue. Noel breaks the pen in half with his teeth. The seizure continues and stops after a few minutes. He is lightly conscious.

"Is he epileptic?" Miguel asks.

"Not that I know of."

"You watch him. I'll call the ship doctor."

Miguel gets the phone. Arthur holds Noel and rocks him.

…

The doctor enters the cabin. Arthur is still rocking Noel who has fallen asleep. He comes to the bed.

"Tell me what happened?"

"I wasn't there at the beginning. Mike was."

"We were sleeping. I could tell he was having trouble. At first it was quiet talking. Then he started screaming."

"What did he scream?"

"It was "No way, asshole."" I woke up. I asked him why he said that. He was having a war flashback. His patrol was ambushed. He fell backwards. The bodies of other soldiers fell on top of him. That would explain what happened next. I went to get Arthur. He came in and Noel couldn't breathe. He felt like he was suffocating."

"That's the dead bodies on top of him. They were pulled off when someone saw him breathing. My boy has bad asthma. I help him do his breathing exercises. I did that with Joe and it seemed to help. That's when we tried to get him to sit up. As we put his legs on the side of the bed, he started to seize. We held him down and put a pen under his tongue. This is what's left of it," Arthur says, showing him the pen.

"Arthur and I held him until he calmed down. Then we called you. Is this all related to his war flashback?" Miguel asks.

"The screaming and breathing is. I've never been buried under dead people before. As for the seizure, I think it was a very violent anxiety attack. Does he have PTSD?"

"I think he does. His discharge papers said mental and physical disability," Arthur says.

"Was he under any stress lately? That can cause seizures."

"I think so. We're brothers and we love each other but we can't live under the same room. The cruise line put us in the same cabin. Joe chose to leave and stay with Mike."

"That could be it. I'll check his vitals first and do an EKG. Could someone bring in the small box with wheels into the room?"

Mike does.

"Mr. Jackson, I will to examine you with these two witnesses. I may need their help. Please sit up for me."

Noel does. The doctor does his exam and the two watch.

"His heart is jumping. He needs an EKG," he says grabbing the small cart.

"What's that?" Arthur asks.

"A portable EKG machine. It's used in sports arenas. A colleague of mine suggested getting one. This is the time I used it."

The Doctor sets it up and does the exam. He reads it.

"I was right. His heart is fine. It's a massive anxiety attack. I'll give him something to calm him down. It will make him sleep. He needs a full night's rest."

"Will he be okay tomorrow? We're the entertainment," Arthur says.

"He'll be fine after some deep long rest. Have him see me before he goes to work? I'll be in my office all afternoon."

He prepares a syringe and gives him a shot and lowers him to the bed. The Doctor stands and packs up his equipment.

"Let him sleep late tomorrow. He'll do fine. I gave him enough for an elephant."

He walks to the door. Miguel goes to him.

"Thank you for coming," Miguel says.

"A word of advice, Mr. Hopkins, keep the stress down," the Doctor says leaving.

Noel has fallen asleep.

"Meet me in the bathroom, Arthur."

They meet and Miguel closes the door.

"If you're gay Mike, I don't do boys."

"I don't either. I do humans."

Miguel turns off the light and starts to shine. Arthur is scared.

"What the hell is going on?"

"I am not what Noel thinks I am. I am an Angel on an assignment. At first it was to stop you two from killing each other. When I saw your relationship I asked if I could help heal it. I was allowed permission," Miguel says turning on the lights.

"Before he started screaming, I read Noel's mind when he was asleep. He told me some interesting facts about you Arthur. Tell me about Noel growing up."

"He was always different. He was shy and quiet. An adult told my parents Joe was retarded. They refused to believe it. The kids in the area teased him. They called him names that weren't nice. The main name was retard."

"I know. I saw it. And how many times did you call him that?"

"I never called him that."

"Don't lie to me, Arthur. I can see right through you, literally. How many times?"

"Only a few. I didn't mean it."

"Words can hurt more than a physical attack. He never forgot it. How many nights did you hear him crying in his room after a day with you and your friends?"

"It didn't happen a lot."

"One time was too many. Now I can see why he hates what you do."

"Anything else you want to know?"

"Let's talk about your personal female relationships. Are you proud of them?"

"No, Joe is right. I do practice adultery. But you have to understand, I am a rock star. We're supposed too. I can't even go to a grocery store without being followed by groupies. Most of the time I ignore them, when they're under age. But when they're adults, sometimes I get to know them. My wife never finds out. No one wants to tell her. The problem with Joe is when he loves it is over-coming. He loves too much. He tends to smother."

"And you don't love enough, Arthur. You tend to starve. So which is worse? What do you intend to do?"

"About what? My brother or my adultery?"

"Start with Noel. He remembers how you ridiculed him when he was young. How did you break his nose?"

"Who told you?"

"Noel did when he was asleep. He told me plenty."

"It was the night Larry was killed. Dad brought him to the morgue. There were loose instruments. One was a scalpel. He grabbed it and tried to stab himself. Dad tried to stop it. He's not young anymore. He started having a heart attack. He was tazied by security. The two were sent to ER. Dad was being admitted when I got there. Joe was in the waiting room by himself. I didn't even think of his husband dying. I hit him and broke his nose."

"I'm the reason he left Chicago. I and the family pushed him away. Larry was buried and Joe left home and changed his name. It was a recording company that located him. He went out west. We all gave up on him. There, my cards on the table."

"And it doesn't leave you with a good hand. You might as well fold. I have been instructed to tell you one more thing. God loves you, Arthur Hopkins. He still believes there is a good man in you. You proved it at the top deck, with your brother. He wants you to talk to him."

"To God? How?"

"Like everyone else does, even me. It's called prayer. One more thing, Noel does not know about me. I will tell him in good time. The time must be right. Go back to your cabin now. I can take care of Noel."

"You can do better than me?" Arthur asks.

"Much better. Go to your cabin. Think about what I said. Don't forget to talk to God. He's waiting for your call."

"I love him, Mike."

"Then prove it. Lift the veil of hate. Listen to what he's saying to you. Ask his forgiveness for how he was treated. That is the only way he will stop being suffocated."

Miguel leaves the bathroom. Arthur looks in the mirror. He does not like the face looking back. He also leaves.

…

It is the next morning. Noel is asleep. Miguel has gone to get him breakfast. Arthur sits on the other bed doing word puzzles. Noel wakes up and sees him.

"Arthur? What are you doing here?"

"Waiting for you to wake up. You had a bad night. I did some puzzles while I waited."

"What happened to me?"

"You had a Taliban flashback. You woke up screaming "No way, asshole." Mike didn't know what to do. He got me. By the time I got here. You were having trouble breathing. You said you were suffocating. I did the same breathing exercises I do with Alex. They seem to help. We tried to get you out of bed and you had a seizure. That's when Mike called the Doc. Don't you remember?"

"No, I don't remember anything past going to sleep."

"Does this happen often?"

"I haven't had a flashback in years. I don't know what brought it on. Where's Mike?

"Getting you breakfast from the buffet. The Doc said to sleep late. He didn't want you to starve. The Doc wants to see you in his office before the show to check you out. You were messed up, bro."

"Why can't I remember?''

"Consider it a blessing. Hopefully tonight you won't wake up Mike."

Miguel comes in with a full plate.

"I see you're awake."

"But I can't remember what happened last night."

"There is a God. He gave you a blessing," Miguel says giving him the plate.

He sits up. Miguel looks at the puzzle book.

"I know what you're been doing."

"I hope you don't mind. I had a long wait," Arthur says.

"That's what those books are for, killing time," Miguel says.

"Thanks Mike. I was hungry."

"You will let me sleep tonight?" Miguel jokes.

"I'll do my best. I just don't know what brought it on," Noel says eating.

"I'll let you two alone. I want to get some swimming in. The pools are big enough," Arthur says rising.

"I'll join you later after I eat. Give me an hour."

"Don't take too long. I don't want my skin to wrinkle."

Arthur leaves.

"He said I had a seizure. I don't have epilepsy."

"Doc said you were under stress. That's why you seized."

"It sounds right. I probably was. Have you seen the girls?"

"We had breakfast together. Mama is still grateful. I just want to warn you."

"That is embarrassing."

"You'll get over it," Miguel says taking the empty plate.

Noel touches his face.

"Yes you have to shave. You're on stage tonight. Don't bother to shower. You'll have to again after you get chlorine on you."

Miguel takes the puzzle book, pen and goes to the door. Noel picks up the broken pen.

"What happened to this?

"You did it when you started your seizure. I'm glad I had two pens. I'm going up deck to enjoy myself. I don't know how to swim."

Miguel leaves. Noel still looks at the pen.

"Damn, I wish I could remember."

…..

Noel approaches the pool. Arthur is lying on a sedan chair. He takes the next chair and puts a towel on it.

"How do you feel?"

"Good. I saw what I did to the pen. I killed it. Nice pool. It could be bigger."

"It's big enough."

"Only men don't come to swim. They come to look, like you are looking now."

"I'm not dead, Joe."

"Don't have to tell me. I'm going to swim. We'll talk when I come out."

Noel goes into the pool. Arthur keeps looking. Time passes and Noel comes back to the chair. He dries himself and puts some suntan lotion on.

"Enjoy your swim?"

"The water was nice and warm. Cold water is shocking. See anything you like?"

"Yes, but I'm with you. I have to behave. Can we talk, Joe?"

"I'm not going anywhere. What's on your mind?"

"I was thinking about how we grew up. We were both so different. I was an extravert and you were an introvert."

Noel starts to become uncomfortable.

"That's ancient history, Art. Let it be."

"I want to talk about it. I know my friends and I made you uncomfortable. They called you names."

"As did you, ASH. Don't deny it."

"I'm not. I'm admitting it. I was wrong to let them. I should have never agreed with them. The folks told me to be patient with you. Sometimes I wasn't."

"You won't get any arguments from me."

"How did it make you feel? I would hear you crying yourself to sleep after my friends left."

Noel is silent.

"Say something, Joe."

"Let it be, Art."

"Answer my questions."

"I hated you. I hated you for years. That's another reason I joined the army. I wanted to learn to respect myself. You took that away from me. I never hurt you. I admired your guts. Nothing scared you. Everything scared me."

"Is that why we always fought? And why we still fight?"

"Bingo. Now you know. I never stopped loving you but I also hated you and how you treated me. I couldn't help the way I was born. What brought this on?"

"You won't believe me but I'll tell you. I promised Mike I wouldn't but I have to. Last night, when you were sick and the Doc gave you the shot to sleep, Mike took me into the bathroom to talk. Mike is not what you think."

"What is he?"

"Sorry, Mike, but I have to tell. He started to shine as he spoke. He's an Angel, the real thing. He's on assignment to work on us. His roommate had no emergency. He had no one on purpose. He waited for us to argue so you would believe the roommate. I'm not lying."

"Wow. What did that have to do with your confession?"

"He checked you when you were asleep and read your memory. He saw my friends calling you names and you crying afterwards. He gave me hell for that. That little guy can yell. You were asleep. You didn't hear anything."

"Is this for real, Art? You're not joking?"

"Do I look like I'm joking? I did wrong with you, Joe. It made we feel good. I admit it."

"Did Dad know?"

"I never told him. Did you?"

"I never told him."

"I think he knew. That's why he spent more time with you. He knew I could take care of myself," Arthur says.

"So, now what? You confessed. What do you want from me?"

"I want your forgiveness. I'm not asking you to forget, just forgive."

Noel sighs.

"What do I do with Mike now?"

"Pretend I didn't tell you. Be an actor once. Just please forgive me."

"Why can't you just let it be, Art? I've already tried to forget."

"No, you haven't. We can't live under the same roof. It was Dad who stopped us from killing each other. You moved out at eighteen."

"I joined the army. I didn't move out."

"You did when you married Larry."

"I didn't think the family wanted to hear us screwing. We needed the privacy. Sex can get noisy."

"Please think about what I said. I really need your forgiveness."

"Because Mike yelled at you? Is that the only reason? You never mentioned it before."

"I never wanted to admit I was wrong."

"I'll think about it. For now, let it be. I don't like discussing it. Let's enjoy the pool. And as for Mike, I'll be an actor."

"Did I do anything else wrong with you?"

"Do you really want me to answer that?"

"Yes."

"I'd have to think about it. My memory blocks it. I'll tell you if I remember. Now can we change the subject? That was years ago. We're adults now."

He lies on the chair, closes his eyes and starts to work on his tan. Arthur sighs. Miguel has been watching. He smiles and raises his thumb up.

"I tried, Mike," he says under his breath and starts to work on his tan.

"My plan is starting to work, boss," Miguel says smiling.

…..

The two are walking to their cabin.

"I'll pick you up before dinner. You have to see the Doc."

"Will he need to give me a note?"

"I don't think so. You seem healthy enough. Last night was old news."

"I keep thinking what would have happened if Mike and I weren't where we were. I hate the thought of hurting someone disabled."

"Is that because you were?"

"I don't know. My first experience was Angie. We were lucky we were there at the motel."

"And I was lucky I was at the frat party. You did handle it pretty good."

"We both did, Art? Why didn't Mike order lighting to the hit the thugs?"

"He knew we could stop it. He didn't want to break his disguise. If he had to, he would do something. He just used us instead," Arthur says.

They stop.

"This is where we part. I'll go with you to the Doc. Come hungry," Arthur says.

He walks away. Noel enters his cabin. Miguel is sleeping. Noel quietly gets ready and takes his shower. He comes out. Miguel is gone.

"I wonder where he is now. Guess I'll find out."

He goes into the closet and pulls out a suit, shirt and tie.

….

Noel takes a short nap. Miguel comes in as he opens his eyes.

"Where have you been?"

"I took a long walk around the ship. It's a beautiful day. How was your swim?"

"Refreshing. Arthur and I have a long talk."

"About what?"

"His behavior when we were young. It wasn't always nice to me. He apologized."

"Did you accept the apology?"

"I told him I'd think about it. I took a nap before dinner and the show tonight."

"You're entitled."

"Art is picking me up before the show. I wonder if I need a note. I hope not."

"Will you let me sleep tonight?"

"I promise I'll try."

Noel sits up and stretches.

"Mike, could I ask you a question? If someone really hurt you when you were young, would you forgive them as an adult?"

"You mean Arthur?"

"How did you guess?

"I think he has become very sincere. Everyone deserves another chance. God gives multiple chances."

"But he's God. I'm not. I'm human."

"I'll give you advice. Life for humans is short. If you let a person die before you forgive them, it will eat you up. Tomorrow this boat could sink. Remember the Titanic? You may never see him again."

"I know you yelled at him. He told me. He also said who you are and how you found out. I'm not freaked out. I still consider you a friend, Mike. I'm glad you took me in. I just don't' know what to do with Art. This war has been going on for years between us."

"Why don't you consider your alternatives if you don't forgive him. You may find there aren't many. Now that you know the truth, how do you feel?"

"Fine. I'm glad you were here to help me last night. I saw what I did to the pen."

"I only came back to get my puzzle books. I'll let you continue resting."

Miguel picks up a book and leaves. Noel goes back to sleep.

…

It is the Captain dinner. He is sitting with the two women and Miguel. The brothers are not there. The Captain looks at his watch.

"What is keeping them?" the Captain asks.

"Your doctor," Miguel says.

The Captain looks at the door. The brothers enter in suits.

"I see them. They clean up nice."

They approach the table and sit down.

"Sorry we're late. The Doc kept us," Arthur says.

"Did he pass?"

"With flying colors. Do I need a note?"

"Not this time. I'll get our meals started. I hope you like fish."

They all agree. Their plates are given.

"Now that we're all here, let's get acquainted. I will be first to say my name is NOT Captain Stubbing."

"We didn't think so."

"Let's start with the brothers. Tell me about yourselves."

Arthur looks at Noel.

"You do it, Art. You're a better speaker than I am."

"We're both professional musicians. I'm rock. He's country. We got a few Grammy's between us. I live in Chicago and he lives in Arizona. We rarely see each other."

"Why so far away, Noel?"

"I like the open spaces. Chicago is congested. I need to breathe. My town is so small we have no rush hour. There's only thirteen people. It's called Nowhere."

"Nowhere, Arizona?"

"And it's next to Nothing, Arizona. It's next to Why, Arizona. And that's next to the Tohono Indian reservation. It's one big valley."

"What do you do out there?"

"I have a live theater. In the basement I have a music school and a small recording studio. I work with Indian children. There is a big gang problem with teenagers. I give them something to do besides getting into trouble. I'm a regular Ed Sullivan."

"Very impressive. Are any famous now?"

"A few. When a group gets good enough I record their demo. I have music connections. I promote my groups to my connections. Several are being considered."

"And you Arthur?"

"I'm a full contract lawyer with my own small practice. At night I'm a family man and singer song writer. When I get enough songs I record them. My record company requires frequent contributions."

"I have two of yours, "And I won" and "Shoah". You're very versatile. I love the Spanish flamingo in "And I Won". Shoah was very different. The sleeve said you went to Auschwitz."

"I went to Poland with my wife and her parents. The camp helped me give ideas. But the Shoah Library in Los Angeles gave me the stories for my songs. I won two Grammies with that album. It's being used in schools in history AND music classes."

"Both of you brothers are impressive. What will the show be like?"

"Spoilers. You'll have to wait," Arthur says.

"Which brings me to you, Mike? What makes you tick?"

"I just won this trip on a raffle. I'm a plain Bible Student."

Arthur and Noel smile at each other.

"I just had a spare bed when Noel needed one."

"Do you two get along?"

"I think so. Captain, I'd like to ask if I could stay. There's no need for another cabin, unless Mike throws me out."

"Will you, Mike?"

"I'll keep him. I enjoy our virgin Bloody Mary's together."

"And now you Mrs. Gibbs and Miss Gibbs. How will I able to talk to you?"

"I'll help you. I'll speak what they sign back."

"Mrs. Gibbs, where is Mr. Gibbs?"

All the women say will be spoken my Noel. He watches and repeats.

"He's dead. He was a soldier in Iraq. He was killed in battle."

"So, he could hear and speak like us?"

"Yes. My daughter was too but early in her years she began to lose her hearing. At first we got hearing aids but eventually they stopped working. She had to learn to read lips. She already knew sign because of me. It was the only way we could communicate."

"Is her hearing loss permanent?"

"We're going to see a specialist after the cruise. He's using experimental surgery techniques to restore some cases of hearing loss. This is her vacation before surgery."

"I wish you luck, Mrs. Gibbs. Maybe there is a chance since she was born hearing."

"I have a question, Captain. What will happen to those three men?"

"They're in our brig, under guard. They will be arrested at our first docking. You don't need to be there to give your statements. If they do it will be virtual. A signer will speak for you."

"I'm just glad Mike and I was there," Noel says.

"So are we, Mr. Jackson. Crime hits boats too. Nowhere is safe anymore, unless it's the Nowhere you know. When I grew up it was safe for kids and women. Not anymore. The Cruise line is very grateful for your actions, all three of you."

"Don't mention it. I know the world isn't safe. I was ambushed in Afghanistan by the Taliban. I lost my spleen and half my liver. The bullet in my leg traveled and caused damage. It was either amputation or a big limp. I'm glad Arthur chose the limp. I was only nineteen," Noel says.

"You're a disabled Vet?"

"The army said mental and physical. Last night proved that."

The Captain looks at this watch.

"My, time has passed. You two should go to the cabaret."

"Captain, I have a request?" Noel asks.

"What is it, Noel?"

"Could you set up two chairs close to the stage for Mrs. and Miss Gibbs? They can't hear the music but they at least read our lips," Noel says.

"Already done, gentlemen."

Noel and Arthur leave.

"We still have time before the show. Let's continue talking," the Captain says.

….

Noel and Arthur are backstage with the band. They are getting last minute instructions, from both sides. The Captain enters and walks over.

"How is everything going?"

"So far so good. The show will be difficult but educational," Arthur says.

"Can you give me hint?"

"Spoilers. Are the ladies close to the stage?" Noel asks.

"They have the nearest table. You won't be able to miss them."

The Captain looks at his watch.

"Ten minutes people. Are you ready?"

"Ready as we ever will be."

"The lights will go down in five minutes. That's when I'll go out and introduce you. Your stools are being put on stage now," the Captain says.

He walks away. Arthur turns to Noel.

"Nervous, Joe?"

"Terrified. I usually do a joint before I go on. It relaxes me. I didn't dare bring it on the ship."

"You should have told me. I did. I just didn't take it on the plane or the airport."

"You? You're not the type."

"There's a lot you don't know about me."

"I'm beginning to think so. Could I have some tomorrow?"

"Only if you come to my cabin. I have an open balcony. No one will smell it."

The lights go out and the Captain goes through the curtain and waits. A large spotlight shines on him and the crowd becomes quiet.

"Good evening. This is your Captain speaking. I have come to introduce tonight's entertainment. You will be entertained by two marvelous performers. They both have their private musical accomplishments. Sometimes they perform together. Both are brothers but their names are different. They will be performing for two more nights. So without further waiting the cruise line would like to introduce Arthur Hopkins and Noel Jackson on their first night."

He leaves the stage as the curtain opens. Noel and Arthur come out with microphones in their hands and sit on their stools. They look at the audience.

"Good evening. I'm Arthur and this is Noel. He used to be Joe before he changed his name. This is the first time we have ever performed on a ship. So both of us will be doing something different," Arthur says.

"Some of you now recognize us from our records. We won't be doing our songs tonight. Tonight we chose to entertain AND educate. Welcome to music class. Before we begin be prepared to time travel. We won't be like Doctor Who killing Daleks and Cybermen. We will be learning about the history of modern music. We will do the years of 1940 to 1980. Let the time machine start. You will first go to the year 1945," Noel says.

They turn to the band behind them.

"Traveling with us and you tonight will be the brilliant cruise line band. They will accompany the songs and later provide music to dance by. Orchestra you may begin," Arthur says.

They start singing and keep their promises to educate and entertain. Mrs. Gibbs and her daughter tap their ears. They can hear the music. They stare at each other in amazement and look at the brothers and smile. The brothers don't know why. Miguel sits with them and smiles. He looks up.

"Thank you, Father, for this miracle," Miguel says.

He looks back at the stage as the brothers perform. Their performances continue. Noel stops and grabs the microphone.

"I will be doing the next song. But before I do I need a Mrs. Gibbs to come on stage and sit by me."

Mrs. Gibbs looks confused. Her daughter tells her to go. She does and sits on the stool.

"This is my tribute to a mother who is very brave. Her name is Mrs. Gibbs. You just look at me while I dedicate this song to All mothers."

He starts to sing "Mrs. Brown you've got a lovely daughter". He replaces Brown with Gibbs. She looks lost and smiles. He ends and kisses her cheek. She blushes and goes back to her chair. Arthur walks up to Noel.

"We will finish our show with one of our favorites. It's from the musical "Jacques Brel." It's called "If We Only Have love," Arthur says.

They sing the song and end with loud strong harmony. They end, stand, grabs hands, raise them and bow. The lights go out and the curtain closes. The brothers go backstage. The Captain starts crying ENCORE. Miguel joins. The full audience joins in. The curtains open and the lights come back on. Arthur goes to his microphone.

"Thank you. Thank you very much. It's time for our encore. You may have wondered what happened to the Beatles. This is where we do it. Go back into your time machine and go to February 9th, 1964 at the Ed Sullivan show. Four lads from Liverpool were making their premiere American performance. They are John, Paul, Georg and Ringo," Arthur says doing a bad Ed Sullivan imitation.

"Ed had them sing five songs. They opened and closed the show. We will do four songs. The last one will be very different," Arthur says.

"How many of you ever saw a McCartney concert?" Noel asks.

They raise their hands.

"Good. You'll know what we're doing. Instead of his nana's, we will be doing yeahs."

They start singing "All My Loving", I Saw Her Standing There", "I Want to Hold Your Hand" and ends with "She Loves you". The audience joins in. They go backstage and the curtain closes. The Captain joins them.

"That was wonderful boys. Will you do the same tomorrow?"

"Tomorrow we do our own material. This was an experiment," Noel says.

"The experiment worked. If you recorded it, it would make a good album."

"Can't do, Captain, copyright laws. I am a lawyer," Arthur says.

"Shame."

Miguel comes with the ladies. He shakes their hands.

"You made God very happy," Miguel says.

"Makes sense. He created music," Arthur says.

"This calls for a drink. Noel, should we get two virgins?" Miguel asks.

"Two virgins? Like the album?" Arthur asks.

"We've been doing non-alcoholic drinks."

Miguel and Noel go the bar. Arthur and the women go the main floor. The women go to the bar.

"Did you enjoy the show?" Noel asks.

"It was wonderful," Mrs. Gibbs says.

"You have beautiful voices," the daughter says in sign.

"I thought you were deaf?" Noel asks.

"We heard everything," Mrs. Gibbs says.

"But how?"

Miguel smiles and looks at Noel.

"Careful what you wish for. You just might get it," Miguel says.

The bartender goes to them.

"What's your drink?"

"Two virgin Bloody Mary's," Noel says.

The two women walk away. The two face each other.

"How did that happen, Miguel?"

"I asked the right person. You wanted them to hear the show. They did. Did that freak you out?"

"Been there, done that. Long story, Mike."

Arthur and the girl from last night start arguing. Noel can see use the word NO. She storms off. Noel is shocked.

"Well, I'll be. Who died?" Noel asks.

"Turn around. Ignore it. He's coming to the bar," Miguel says.

They do and Arthur reaches the bar.

"I'll have what they're having."

"One virgin coming up."

"Virgin?"

"Their drinks are non-alcoholic," the bartender says.

"I'll take one too."

"That was a great show, guys. It was very educational. Who's idea was it?" Miguel says.

"Mine. I always choreograph our shows," Arthur says.

"It was the songs that were hard to pick. There are only a million songs out there," Noel says.

"Tomorrow it's our songs," Arthur says.

"I'll look forward to it."

"He's country and I'm rock. Look for some line dancing," Arthur says.

The two women are sitting at an empty table near the bar.

"They look lonely," Noel says.

"They can't dance. The music is audible," Arthur says.

"Oh yeah, watch me," Noel says going over to Mrs. Gibbs.

He asks her to dance. She gets up and they go to the dance floor.

"How about you, Arthur? There's one Gibbs left," Miguel says.

"How can they know what to do? They can't hear?" Arthur asks.

"But they can see. Mrs. Gibbs is doing pretty good," Miguel says.

"Mom can read lips."

"So can her daughter. Go ahead. Ask the girl. It's only a dance."

"Okay. Here goes nothing."

Arthur goes to ask and they go up to dance. Miguel turns to the bartender.

"How's it going, Miguel? Are the brothers together?" the bartender asks.

"Not yet. I'm getting close. I told the boss. I would try. Give me a few more days. I want it to be their idea," Miguel says.

"Keep up the good work, Miguel. Larry would be proud."

Miguel turns and sees both brothers enjoying themselves.

"Keep the virgins coming," Miguel says.

….

Noel and Miguel enter the cabin. Noel takes off his tie and coat and throws them on his bed. He stretches.

"Oh, that was a long night. I am pooped. I'll fall asleep when I hit the pillow," Noel says.

"You both worked hard tonight. The crowd enjoyed it. I know I and God did. Why didn't you freak out when the women could hear?"

"That was how my wife got her voice and hearing. I volunteered to be the entertainment at a fundraiser for a community center for the Tohono reservation. We had visitors of yours. One was an Angel of Death. He was a nice guy. You probably know him."

"It's a small neighborhood. We all know each other. So, what did he do?"

"I was cleaning up the bar after the show when he came in. He came to ask me a question. He wanted to know how I would feel if Angie had five senses, and not four. I told him I wouldn't care. I married her as she was. She was perfect for me."

"Angie came in to help me clean up. Your friend asked her how she would feel if she could hear and speak. Would she want to hear my voice? She said she didn't care as long as she could read my lips and I could sign. We both told him we were satisfied as we were."

"Most people would jump to hear," Miguel says.

"He then told us to take each other's hands. We did and he put his hands around ours. He looked up and said "Father, you heard the answers. Should I?" He closed his eyes. I felt fire in my hands. I tried to pull away but something was holding us together. He opened his eyes and we got control of our hands again. That's when he told Angie to talk to me. She was numb and whispered a few words. He said not to be afraid. She started to sign. He stopped her hands."

"Use your voice, Angie. Talk to her, Noel?"

"So I did. That was the first time I heard her voice and she heard mine. We didn't know what to say. I asked him why. He said God wanted to thank me for all our charity work for the Indian community. He gave Angie a voice for the first time. That's why I wasn't surprised. You know for two weeks we still signed. We couldn't get used to just speaking. People don't need to be audible to communicate. God never took it back. She can still speak."

"I know who did it. He told me afterwards," Miguel says.

Noel starts to undress and picks his pajamas.

"God, I really am tired. I promise to let you sleep tonight. No war flashbacks."

He puts his pajama bottoms only and goes into his bed.

"Night, Mike."

"Sweet dreams, Noel."

Miguel watches as Noel closes his eyes. In a few minutes he is asleep. Miguel looks up.

"I'm getting there, Boss. I hope by the last day the war will be over. Night, Boss."

…

It is the next morning. Arthur is sitting eating breakfast. Miguel and Noel see him and sit down.

"Morning," Miguel says.

"Morning, guys. How was last night?" Arthur asks.

"I let him sleep. And you?"

"I got sleep. I practiced "And I Won". It's been awhile since I played the interlude. I did make it difficult. Tonight both our fingers will touch a guitar," Arthur says.

"That should be easy to choreograph," Miguel says.

"I do the first half and Arthur does the second half. Then we work together with guitar duets," Noel says.

"We won't have to wear suits," Arthur says.

"I can't wait to hear it. I'll see what makes each of you tick. I'll get my food. You two brothers can talk," Miguel says leaving.

"He couldn't be more obvious," Arthur says.

"I know what he is, Art. I told him I did."

"What's it like to live with an Angel?"

"I don't think of him as one. He's just Mike. He does nothing special for me. We're just buddies."

"He wants us to declare a truce. Will that be possible?" Arthur asks.

"I don't know. I haven't decided."

"I'd hate to disappoint him. He seems like a nice guy."

"He is. I wonder if he was ever mortal, like Larry."

Miguel comes back with his food and sits down.

"Go ahead, Noel."

Miguel starts to eat.

"One question."

"Go ahead."

"Where does the food go? Are you built like us inside?"

"That's two questions."

"Same subject."

"We don't need to eat human food in our mortal state. We just eat what we like. As to where it goes, you don't need to know about our dietary system."

"I was just wondering. How long are you staying?"

"Until I finish my assignment."

"Which one? Your first or the one you added?"

"A little of both. You two are not every different, just plain stubborn."

"You won't get any argument from me."

"So what's your plan for today?"

"Probably the pool again. Not much to do. I'm not a gambler. They can keep the casino. It's boring being on the love boat if you're alone. And I'm not supposed to find a companion, unless he's male. Girls are taboo," Arthur says.

"Do you expect me to be sorry for you?"

"I wish somebody would."

"You know we dock today. You could leave and stretch your land legs."

"I could but I didn't come to be a tourist, just a performer. The money is why I'm here."

"I'm told a few more people are coming on. That's why the empty cabins stayed empty."

"I hope they enjoy themselves."

"I can see land now. We should arrive in a few hours."

Noel comes and sits down. He starts eating.

"Will you be doing the pool, Art?" Noel asks.

"In a few hours. You interested?"

"I'll be there at three. The water is nice."

"You two don't like shopping?" Miguel asks.

"Only with friends, too many people. I like open spaces."

"And I don't feel like walking."

"You guys are real fun," Miguel says.

The two brothers look at each other.

….

Angie gets out of a cab. The boat is docked and people are leaving. She goes up the ramp with her small luggage and approaches a man with a list.

"Hello. I'm here to be with my husband, Noel Jackson. My name is Angie Jackson."

"I see your name. Go to the front desk and get your key. The cabin is up the stairs and to your left."

She does and stands in front of the door. She is about to put the key in when Miguel sees her and approaches.

"May I help you?"

"I came to see Noel Jackson. I'm his wife, Angie," she says showing him her left hand.

"You're Angie? You're all he talks about. Please come in. Use your key to make sure it works."

She does and they enter. She looks around.

"Kind of small?"

"It's only two guys sleeping. My name is Miguel. He calls me Mike."

"He's told me all about you."

"I'm sure there's something's he left out. Put your bags on the left bed."

"Where will you sleep?"

"In here. Instead of one roommate, I'll have two. It's just two days."

She drops her bags.

"Where is Noel? Is he shopping in town?"

"He's in the pool. He thinks he's a fish. I'll take you to him. Leave your purse. Just take the key. Come with me."

….

They walk to the pool. Arthur is sun bathing. Noel is swimming. He is becoming a prune. Miguel goes to Arthur.

"Enjoying the sun?"

"I was until you covered it. Can you move? What are you doing here?"

"Someone came aboard to see Noel. I just brought her here."

"She? Angie won't like that."

"I think she will. Turn your head."

"Angie?"

"Hello, Arthur."

"Where did you come from?"

"I joined the ship in town. Getting some sun I see?"

"It is winter back home. If you're looking for Joe, he hasn't come out for quite some time. Look for the prune in the pool."

Miguel goes to the pool. Noel is still swimming.

"Noel, there's someone here to see you."

He swims over.

"Who?"

Miguel moves away and Angie stands by the pool. He sees a woman's shoe and looks up.

"Angie!" he cries smiling.

He gets out, grabs a towel and dries himself before he hugs her.

"Babe, what are you doing here?"

"You sounded so lonely. I wanted to surprise you."

"I am so happy to see you. I kept thinking how much we would love being on this boat together. They do call it the love boat. Mike, this is my Angie. She is my life."

He looks at her and kisses her. Miguel looks at Arthur as he watches them. He is not pleased. They stop.

"Where's your luggage?"

"In the cabin."

"I'm through being a fish. I want to be a man now. I'll get my stuff. See you at the show, Art."

Noel and Angie walk away. Miguel looks at Arthur.

"Something wrong, Arthur?"

"Everything. He will get what I want tonight and I can't have. It doesn't seem fair."

"I have to go. I need to see a man about a horse," Miguel says.

Arthur goes back to lying down.

"Why does he always get what he wants and I don't?"

…

Noel and Angie enter the cabin.

"Where did Mike go?"

"He always disappears on me. He'll be back. I'm going to shower and get this chlorine off. I'll be out soon. There's room in my closet for your foldables and two empty drawers."

"This room is so small."

"I think it's steerage. But I had to get out of Art's cabin. I didn't care where I went. Mike's a good guy. You'll find out."

He undresses and goes into the bathroom. Angie sits and waits. She looks at the clock. Fifteen minutes pass and Miguel comes back.

"Where did you go?"

"I had to see a man about a horse? Where's Noel?"

"Getting rid of chlorine."

"I have to talk to you two when he comes out."

Noel comes out wearing only a towel around his waist.

"Hey, Mike. Where did you disappear?"

"I had to see someone. It seems there's a small private cabin. It has no windows or balcony but it has what you want, privacy."

Angie stands up.

"I'll open my bags."

"Don't. The cabin is not for you. I'm taking it. This one is yours," Miguel says.

"You don't have to leave, Mike," Noel says.

"Yes, I do. I'll be back in two hours. Then I'll pack. Enjoy yourselves."

Miguel leaves.

"He's so sweet," Angie says.

"Yes, he is. But I'm not. I'm very horny and I want to ravage you," he says laying her on the bed and losing the towel.

They kiss.

"Promise?" Angie asks.

"Watch me. Let's make a baby."

"We can't."

He sits up.

"Why not?"

"My uterus is toxic and your boys can't swim. Let's forget a new baby and just enjoy each other's company."

"Okay, luv. Just each other. I can live with that."

He kisses her again.

…

Noel and Angie are holding each other. He caresses her hair and skin.

"If you only knew how much I missed you."

"I missed you the same."

"Who has the kids?"

"Grandpa. He couldn't wait to babysit. He kind of likes his son-in-law. So do I."

"And I like his little girl."

"Why did you leave your old cabin?"

"I came in when Arthur was humping someone. I couldn't live with that. I just wanted to sleep. He wanted to hump. So I changed cabin. Mike was the only one with a free bed. I couldn't live with his adultery. Sherrie loves him. She just couldn't come. So he lays the first girl he sees. Art and I under the same roof is a disaster."

"When are you two going to stop this war?"

"It's bad enough we have to work together. We don't need to live together. This is a boat. Where does one go to get away? Forget Art. We better get dressed. Mike will be here soon. After he leaves we won't be disturbed."

…

The group of four is entering the dining room. They are behind a small family with two children. One has Down's syndrome. The older brother is teasing him.

"Come on, dummy. I want to eat," the older brother says.

Noel starts to try and stop the abuse. Arthur stops him with his arms.

"Let me take care of this."

Arthur walks up to the older brother.

"What do you think you're doing? He's your brother."

"He looks funny. He's a dummy."

"Don't you know words hurt? He's about to cry. You're supposed to love him not hurt him."

Arthur turns to the younger brother. He kneels down to meet face to face.

"My name is Arthur. What's yours?"

"Joshua."

"Joshua. That's a strong name. It belonged to a famous general. Do you know the story of Moses and how he freed the slaves from Egypt? Joshua worked for him. They had to conquer the city of Jericho. It was protected by a tall big wall. Joshua used science to break the wall. Only he didn't know it."

"Do you know anything about sound vibrations? An opera singer could sing a very high note and break a glass without touching it. You can do the same with low sound. And that's what Joshua did. He told his army to march around the town, many times, making a lot of noise. There were drums and screaming. It was very noisy."

"The foundations of the wall began to crumble. In a few days, the wall collapsed and fell down. Joshua conquered the city without touching it. No man died in the battle. Your parents knew that when they named you Joshua. Next time your brother calls you dummy, you tell him to stop. Tell him you have the name of a famous general. You feel better now, Joey?"

Noel starts to walk away but Angie grabs his arm.

"Noel, you stay. You need to hear this."

Arthur stands up.

"My name is Joshua, not Joey."

"I know. I was thinking of my little brother. I did the same thing to him. He was different and I made him cry. I would hear him crying himself to sleep because I hurt him. It made me feel good. I was wrong. I hurt someone I should have loved. And now I feel sorry I did. He hates me now. He's just too adult to show it."

He turns to the other brother.

"You go and apologize to him. Say you're sorry and really mean it. One day you'll need his help and he won't be there. You'll be alone. Apologize."

Noel walks away. The other brother goes to Joshua.

"I'm sorry, Josh. I didn't mean to hurt you. Forgive me."

"I forgive you."

The two boys hug. Angie walks up to Arthur.

"Too bad someone couldn't have told you the same years ago," Angie says.

"Don't rub it in, Angie."

Miguel walks up to Noel.

"Are you okay?"

"I'm fine."

"No, you're not. The little boy in you still has pain."

"I feel for him. I've been there."

"And you still are. Don't think because you have an adult body that the little boy in you has grown up. He hasn't. He still cries himself to sleep."

Noel turns and looks at Arthur. Angie and Miguel look at both of them.

"You're just going to stare at each other all night? We came here to eat, not stare," Angie says.

"Yeah guys, we're hungry," Miguel says.

The two are silent.

"Will one of you move and do something," Angie says.

Arthur lowers his head and walks up to Noel.

"Joe, its ASH. He wants you to forgive him."

"I can see Ash."

"And I can see Joey."

"It was so long ago," Arthur says.

"It was yesterday to me."

"Will you forgive Ash?"

Noel looks at Miguel and Angie.

"Make it fast or we'll die from starvation," Angie says.

"I forgive you Ash."

"Now I just have to forgive myself."

"That's your problem not mine, "Noel says.

The two brothers look at each other. Arthur puts his arms around Noel and hugs him. Noel hugs him back.

"It's about time. Let's eat," Angie says entering the dining room.

Miguel joins her. The brothers let go.

"Now what?" Noel asks.

"We go in and eat."

….

The second show goes on as it should. They did their own material and the crowd shouts for more. The two come out for their encore and sit down on the stools.

"Well, what do we do now? We didn't prepare anything," Arthur says.

"Anyone have a suggestion?" Noel asks.

"I do," Miguel says raising his hand.

"Share it, Mike," Noel says.

"I would like to hear "He Ain't Heavy, He's my Brother."

"Good choice. We haven't done that in years. I think I remember the words. Do you Noel?"

Miguel walks up to the stage.

"I made two copies of the words. The man with the horse gave it to me," he says giving it to them.

He sits down again.

"We have no excuse not to," Arthur says.

Arthur begins and Noel joins in. They do it with no instrumentation and end with beautiful harmony. They get off the stools and bow. The band behind them starts to play as the brothers leave the stage. Noel goes to Angie and Miguel.

"You had this planned. Didn't you, Mike?"

"I will not tell a lie. I did."

"Are you two going to talk or will you ask me to dance, husband?" Angie asks.

"Would you care to dance, madam?"

"I would love to sir."

They go to the dance floor.

"What about you, Arthur?

"I want to get some sleep. I'm tired. Night, Mike."

He leaves the cabaret and goes to his cabin. He enters and puts his guitar on the bed. He sits down, sighs, and looks around gets into his sleep wear. He just has bottoms on. Minutes later he turns off the light and goes to sleep. An hour later he hears a knock on his door. He opens it a crack. It is the young woman he had before.

"What do you want?" Arthur asks.

"I was lonely. I was wondering if you were lonely too. May I come in?"

He opens the door and she enters.

"What can I do for you?

"It's what we can do for each other," she says walking up to him.

"I'm tired. I was already sleeping."

"I'm not. Do you want me to leave?"

He looks at her

"I want you to stay."

He puts his arms around her and kisses her.

….

Time passes but he has failed to perform. He gets off her and lies on his back. He is frustrated.

"I'm sorry. This has never happened to me before."

"We could keep trying."

"It's too late. The ship is dead. Just go back to your own cabin. Tonight was a bad idea. I'm sorry. My mind is somewhere else."

She gets up and starts getting dress. He still lies on the bed. She leaves and he gets up. He grabs a jump suit, puts it on and leaves the cabin.

…

He goes to the top deck and leans on the railing. The wind blows through his thick hair. Miguel walks up to him.

"Evening," Mike says.

"Hey," Arthur says.

"Can't sleep?"

"You could say that. I had female company in my cabin tonight."

"I see one thing hasn't changed."

"Yes, it has Mike. The boat didn't float. It didn't want to leave port."

"What boat?"

"My little boat. I'm dead as a doornail," he says pointing to his lower area.

"That boat. I can see why you're frustrated. You know sometimes it happens when it's medical."

"It's not medical. I'm healthy."

"Then something in you didn't want to float."

"I wanted it to float, Mike. Joe has his wife. I'm alone. What other reason would there be?"

"Maybe someone else didn't want it to float. A higher being maybe?""

"Did you have something to do with this, Mike?"

"I didn't. Cross my heart. I wasn't even thinking about you."

"Then why are you on deck?"

"I don't have to sleep. I don't have the same functions you do. I just wanted fresh air. My cabin is very small. I didn't plan this meeting. But maybe someone else did. Have you talked to God yet?

"I have nothing to say. Joe forgave me."

"But you didn't forgive yourself. You're no saint. Talk to him, Arthur. He's the one who made the meeting. How obvious does he have to be? Does he have to hit you on the head with a hammer?"

"I don't want to say anything to him or anyone else. I want to be left alone."

"Seems you got your wish. You are alone."'

Miguel walks away. Arthur looks at the stars.

"Okay, God. You got my attention. What do you want me to say? I'm sorry I hurt Joe. He forgave me. I'm sorry I have a problem with loyalty. I'm a rock star. We all do that. Are you mad at them too? Damn it, God. Say something." Arthur cries.

Noel sees him and walks towards him.

"You okay, Art?"

He turns to Noel.

"Why are you here, Joe? Shouldn't you be with Angie?"

"She's asleep."

"Did you tire her too much?"

"I don't call that being tired. I call it making love to my wife. You have one."

"And she's back home. She had things to take care of."

"And she forgot you?"

"I forgot her. We're fighting again. We fight a lot lately."

"All couples do. It's fun to make up. Angie and I fight. The after sex is fantastic."

"Don't rub it in, bro."

"Had a bad night?"

"My boat didn't float."

"Oh, now I understand. I don't have that problem. My problem is my guys can't swim. I shoot blanks. We're lucky we had two natural children. I'm dry inside."

"I'm glad that's not my problem. Mike says I should talk to God. What do you think?"

"Between us you really need to. You have to clear your head."

"What would I say?"

"I look at it this way. Did you ever think about Dad as just a man and not our father? I do. He came here from another country alone. He then met the man across the hall that was raising an eight-year niece. They stayed friends until Dad wanted to date the eighteen year old niece. He got her pregnant and married her. That's when his life really began. If he didn't date her he would always be a bachelor. Marriage was not in the cards for him."

"He then became a husband, a father and a financial supporter. They had three kids and he raised them all. He was proud of them. He loved his life. The boys were screw-ups. The eldest mistreated the younger one. The younger one couldn't make up his mind if he wanted boys or girls. He liked both. Dad didn't care. He still loved them."

"Do you remember when we would tell him our problems? He would listen, close his eyes and then ask us a question. It was a question we didn't want to answer because it was always the truth we didn't want to know. He was very wise and quiet in his words."

"He was just being British, Joe."

"Maybe, but he always told us what we needed to do. He made the words come from us. Maybe you should do that with God. Think of him as Dad. There's a reason he's called the Father."

"My life is a little more complicated. A week before this job, I moved to another bedroom. Sherrie and I always fight. Three weeks ago I began seeing someone. It started when we both went to a law convention in Vegas. I think we're falling in love."

"Wow. You're right. It is more complicated. Do they feel the same way?"

"I think he does."

"Did you just say HE?"

"Surprised?"

"Shocked is more like it. If it was about me people have no problem accepting it. It's how I am and I don't hide it. I just happen to love my wife and kids. I chose to be straight. But not you. This change doesn't fit you."

"It all happened when-."

"I don't want to know. Too much information for me. Do me a favor? Before you see him again, both of you get tested. Larry and I did before we began our relationship again. Then we got married. Should you continue with this life, it has to be done. Promise me you'll get tested. Another person is not worth becoming an AIDS statistic. Promise me."

"I promise."

"I don't know what to say. This is more than female adultery. I came here with a chip on my shoulder about how you treated me when we were young. When I caught you with that girl, I lost it. I had no idea there was more to you."

"You were right to have that chip. The girl was just there. I wasn't thinking."

"I know, not with your brain."

"You were right to leave the cabin. We would have killed each other."

"It's late and I'm tired. I'm going back to Angie. She's probably snoring away right now. She has sinus problems that make her snore. Do yourself a favor, Art, talk to God. He doesn't rat on people. You can trust him. Night, bro."

He walks away. Art looks up and waits until he's alone.

"God, it's me, your royal pain-in-the-ass. As you can see I'm messed up. My wife and I are breaking up. I've got a friend I shouldn't have. But he gives me more love than the mother of my children. What do I do? At one time we loved each other. Where did I go wrong? Where did we go wrong? Everyone sees us a perfect couple. Boy, are they wrong. You want perfect. It's Joe and Angie. He's never lost his love for her. God, I am so tired of not knowing where to go and what to do. I am a real screw-up. Joe makes sense of his life. I forgot how."

"I'm speaking to you as I would Dad. I can see you listening and watching me with those loving eyes my Dad has. It's time for the unwanted question Dad always had. I don't know when you can ask it. You have no real voice. You speak in visions and dreams and burning bushes. Talk to me somehow. Tell me you heard what I said. Offer some suggestions. I don't mind you taking away my freewill. All it's done is get me into trouble. I know there's a right road I should see. That's all I have to say. Try to keep in touch. Tell Mike. He's willing to help. I hope he's down here for more than a cruise. Amen."

He walks away. Miguel comes from out of the shadows. He stops and looks up.

"What do you want me to do boss? He's right about me. I kept my promise. The brothers now talk to each other. There's a truce. Tell me what you decide. Oh, by the way, I like what you did with the floating boat. Good move. I knew you'd find a way to get him to talk. I'm getting sleepy. Night, boss. Tell Larry I succeeded."

He walks away.

….

It is the fourth day and the last show. Noel and Angie are in the pool. She is on a raft. He comes under her and turns it over. She falls into the pool. Her head bobs up and sees him laughing.

"That was not funny, Noel. I just put on sun lotion."

"I know. I saw you. That why I did it."

She glares at him and swims away dragging the raft. He laughs. She goes on the shore and gets the bottle to put on more. She lays a towel and lies in the sedan chair.

"Coward," he says swimming away.

Miguel comes to Angie.

"Morning."

"Morning, Mike."

"Have you seen Arthur?"

"No. After breakfast we came straight to the pool. Don't you have trunks?"

"I can't swim. I leave that to the professionals. You two are happy."

"We don't have time to relax at home. He's always at the theater or the school. He loves teaching music. Why do you want Arthur?"

"I wanted to talk to him. I'll keep looking. Be careful with Noel. He could get a bad burn in this water. The water reflects the sun. And his skin is light."

Miguel walks away. Angie goes back to bathing. Noel comes out and dries himself with a towel. She looks at his back. He resembles a lobster.

"Honey, have you been using sunscreen? Your back is pretty red. Why don't you put on a shirt? You won't be able to sleep tonight."

She touches his back and feels the burn.

"It doesn't feel burned."

"It will when you take a hot shower. Trust me."

"Okay, luv. Whatever you say?"

He puts on a t-shirt and lies on his sedan chair.

"Ow! I really do have a burn. I thought my skin was tough. I live in the desert and never burn."

"There's always a first time. Take a cold shower. I have some lotion in my suitcase. You look like a lobster. You're redder than Uncle Bob. And he's more Indian than me," she says laughing.

"Very funny, Angie."

She continues laughing.

…

Arthur wakes up and looks at the clock. It's ten-thirty.

"Guess I missed breakfast."

He gets out of bed and rubs his chin.

"Time to shave."

He walks to the bathroom and puts shaving crème on his face. He starts shaving when he hears a knock on his door. He goes still wearing the shaving cream. It is Miguel.

"What do you want, Mike? I was shaving. I just got up."

"Late night?" Miguel says entering.

"How did you guess?"

He goes back to shave. Mike joins him.

"I repeat. What do you want?"

"I came to ask if you talked to God last night."

"I tried. Joe showed up and we talked."

"I saw him today. He and Angie are at the pool. He's become a lobster. His back is red. Do you guys use guitar straps?"

"If we're standing only. Why?"

"I hate to be there when he puts the strap on his back."

"Glad it ain't my back. Mike, could I ask you a question? When Larry died he sometimes came to visit if we needed help. You seem human. You don't do any fancy miracle stuff. Where you ever human?"

"My name was Miguel Emanuel Gonzalez. I broke horses. Today I would be called a horse whisperer. I worked for a rancher in New Mexico. He found a horse that was hard to break. He got me. It took time but I broke him. I was riding in a circle in the corral. I didn't see the rattle snake. He did. He raised his first two legs and threw me off. My neck broke as my body hit the ground. I felt no pain."

"So now you hate horses?"

"I love horses. It's snakes I don't like. I had a wife and a newborn son. She was young and remarried. My son became a whisperer. But he always remembers to look for snakes."

"So what do you do back home?'

"I'm not an Angel of Death. He sends me down when he thinks I know something about the cases. Most of the time, I'm in crowd control. It gets pretty crowded."

"When did you die?"

"About two hundred years ago. I've seen many changes. The sizes of the crowds vary. When I died people died from illness and war. It wasn't much to control. There were only two times it got big, WWI and WWII. People lived longer. Illness didn't always kill. We counted on war."

"The first was big but the second called for more staffing. Everyone was working. All the AOD'S were sent to gas chambers to pick up their cases. I felt sorry for them. They went down more than once and became very tired. Most of them cried when they came home. All the victims of gas chambers asked the same question. "Why did we have to be killed?" What do you say to six million when they ask?"

"What did the boss say?"

"The camps broke his heart. He could deal with the children up to the adults. But the babies were too young to understand. He sent them back so they could have a life. That became my job. I would send the souls. The people would have no memory of the gas chamber."

"God practices reincarnation?"

"A baby has no memories. I wouldn't call that reincarnation. They never got a chance to live."

"I guess you're right," Arthur says throwing water on his face.

"A lot of AOD's hated their jobs. They quit. It was too much for them."

"I went to Auschwitz with my wife and her parents. You can't imagine that hell. I saw lamp shades made from human skin. Cups were made from skulls. Coin purses were made from penises. There was a building with meat hooks. Prisoners were hung until they bled to death."

"I left the camp at night. I looked out the window of the bus and saw people looking out from the front gate. Their eyes were piercing like flash lights. As the bus drove away, they lit the road. I couldn't see the night sky until we drove a few miles away. The ground is haunted by all the people who died there. You had to see it to understand. I made it a hologram on my album cover "Shoah."

"So what's your plan for today?"

"I missed breakfast. I'll eat lunch in an hour. Practice some songs."

"Does that also include God?"

"I did talk to him. I asked him to answer me. I'm still waiting. Would you deliver the answers?"

"He hasn't told me yet. He'll find you a way to tell you."

"I hope he hurries. At least Moses had a burning bush."

"Be patient, Arthur. He answers in his own time, not yours. I'll leave you now. You can shower."

He leaves.

"A lot of good you are, Mike?"

….

Noel and Angie are in the cabin. He is on his stomach. She is putting lotion on his back. He is in pain.

"How does it feel, cold?

"Not cold enough."

"If I had an egg. I could cook it on your back. Will you be able to use your guitar strap tonight?"

"I forgot about that. It's gonna hurt. Now I know how a lobster feels."

"A few days with lotion you'll feel better. But then you itch when you start to peel."

"What do I do tonight?"

"Good question. I don't have an answer. For what it's worth I like my eggs easy over."

"Very funny, wife."

"Sorry, I couldn't help it."

There is a knock on the door. Angie opens the door to Miguel.

"Mike?"

"Hi, Angie. I came to see if Noel needs help."

He walks in.

"He does. His back has turned into a grill. I put lotion on it but it still is hot."

"Let me see."

He goes to Noel and looks.

"I'll have a double cheese burger, medium."

Noel throws him a dirty look.

"Let me see if I can help."

He sits on the bed, raises his hand over his back and concentrates. Noel's back starts cooling off. Angie can see it. She doesn't understand. Noel sits up.

"The heat is gone."

"Not for long. You'll be able to play guitar but you pain will return tomorrow when we depart."

"Thanks, Mike."

"What did you just do, Mike? It was really red."

"Noel can tell you."

"Tell me what?"

"Remember the man who gave you hearing and speaking?"

"How can I forget?"

"You know what he was. Mike and him work for the same boss."

"You mean he's a -?"

"Yes, Angelica, I am an Angel. I came here with two assignments. One was to keep the brothers apart so they wouldn't kill each other. The other was to find the reason and try to make peace. I was able to do one and now I still have to find the second. Noel was easy. All he needed to do was to cool his back. Arthur is still not completed. He is much harder to handle."

"I don't know what to say."

"I have to leave now. Enjoy the rest of your day. Larry sends his regards."

Miguel leaves.

"Larry? That makes sense now. Whenever I talked about Larry, he would ask more about him. I even told him personal things about our married life."

"I wouldn't worry. Mike doesn't look like he would tell. So, what do we do with the rest or our day, after the show?" Angie asks.

…

Arthur is in his cabin practicing some songs on his guitar when the phone rings. He gets it.

"Hello. Hi, Paul. I was just thinking about you… The cruise is okay. I'm only here to work. The money is good. I already know how to spend it…I'm buying some real estate. I want us to have our own place where people won't find us…I'll tell you more when I get home in two days…I miss you too… I love you."

He ends the call, puts the guitar on the bed, lies down and starts to take a nap.

"Maybe that's why my boat didn't float."

…

It is before the show. The brothers are backstage. Noel pulls out his guitar and puts on the strap.

"Will you be able to use the strap on your burn?"

"Mike cooled it off so I could. That's what I get for becoming a fish."

"You can't help it. Arizona is dry."

"Any changes from last night?"

"It's the same show. We just switch who goes first."

"You're very silent."

"I didn't leave the cabin except to eat. I took a long nap. I needed it."

"What time is check out?"

"Noon."

"You want to share a cab to the airport?"

"I'll take my own cab. You two need the privacy."

"Anyone picking you up from the airport?"

"Sherrie is sending James. She is too busy. Truth is she doesn't want to."

"Why can't you two try and work it out? You have four children. That's an investment. Your kids are young. They need both parents at their age."

"It's past that point. It's only a matter of time. We need to move on with our lives."

"It's very sad, Art. We are two of a few children that didn't come from divorce. I know so many. We had stability. Children of divorce don't."

"Not everyone can be like you and Angie. Life happens."

"But not to us. The folks still love each other. We know it can work. All we have to do is try."

"I don't want to try and neither does Sherrie. We'll just take care of the kids as best we can."

The music starts behind the curtain.

"We're on, bro. I'll see you after you end."

Arthur puts his guitar over his shoulder and goes on stage. Noel sits and waits.

…..

The show is over and the brothers bow. They go backstage and their guitars in their cases. Noel turns to Arthur.

"Thanks for your cooperation."

"You're welcome."

"I miss the days we worked together."

"So do I, Joe. That was when we were different people and only had a few responsibilities. Now we both have families and live far away. You left not me."

"I had to. I was losing my sanity. Losing Larry was too much. It didn't help he was murdered. Have you seen Mike?"

"Not since this morning. Why?"

"I was just wondering if he already went home. He told me it was Larry who sent him. I'm glad Larry is happy where he is."

"And it didn't help my sons were born the same night. The Lord Giveth and Taketh. I wonder if he had an AOD?"

"What's that?"

"Angel of Death."

"I'm sure he did."

"I'll see you in the morning at breakfast," Arthur says walking out.

"Night, bro," Noel says following him.

….

The three are leaving the ship with their luggage. There is a train of cabs waiting.

"It's still not too late to share a cab," Noel says.

"It's way too late, bro. You take yours first."

Noel and Angie get into a cab and Arthur goes to the next cab.

"Airport please."

The phone rings and Arthur answers.

"Hello, Hi Paul…I'm in a cab going to the airport. I'll see you tomorrow. I have to ask you a favor. I need you to do something for me. Actually we have to do the same thing…I can't tell you now. I will when we meet…Miss you too."

He ends the calls.

"Enjoy your cruise? The cabbie asks.

"Mike? Are you driving?"

"I can drive. I learned a generation ago. Is that your new friend?"

"Do you need to ask? I never got my burning bush."

"It's his time, not yours."

The cab starts stalling.

"Something wrong, Mike?"

"The engine light just came on. I'm pulling off the road. I'll see if I can fix it."

He does and comes back and tries to turn on the cab. It doesn't work.

"Sorry, it won't go. Maybe this is your burning bush? We're right by a fork in the road. We'll have to make a decision. I'll call AAA," Miguel says.

"I'll miss my plane."

"You'll make it. But you'll have to walk. This is something I can't fix. There is no thing as an Angel mechanic."

He makes the call.

"They're on their way. I wait for them outside."

Arthur shakes his head, sighs and sits back. Miguel looks up.

"Okay, boss. Did you do this thing? This cab is going nowhere," Miguel says.

He leaves the cab. A strong smell of sulfur enters the cab. Arthur starts to choke and finally falls asleep. A man wearing deep dark red appears. It is the devil himself.

"Hello, Arthur. Sorry I took so long. I had to wait until your babysitter left. Cars are so easy to break. I won't bother telling you my name. You will meet an employee of mine in the very near future. He will give you everything you want, and that includes Paul. We'll meet again. You will NOT remember this conversation when you wake up. It will appear as just a second has passed. I can see AAA coming."

He disappears as Miguel walks up with the man from AAA. Arthur wakes up. He is slightly confused.

TO BE CONTINUED

72