Love Revisited

by girlmoustakis

In Commander and Chief I had Noel write a book about the relationship with his deceased brother Arthur who died in Commander. This is the actual book he wrote with dramatization. The title refers to the last record they made together titles LOVE.

LOVE REVISTED

BY

HENRIETTE PRUGER

PREFACE

Noel enters his home. Angie is putting away dinner dishes. Noel ate at the diner.

"Hello, love."

"Hello, Noel. You look tired? Busy at the theater?"

"No. I just feel quiet today."

"You've been quiet ever since we came back from D.C. It's understandable."

"I feel like half a person now."

"You're used to having a brother. Now he's gone. So is whatever you were with him. He was your only male sibling. I was an only child. Mom didn't live long enough to give me a sibling. I would have liked a younger brother or sister. You have to snap out of this, Noel. Arthur's gone. He'll never come back."

"I will. Give me time."

"I'm going to bed now. Don't be long."

"I'll be up in a few minutes. I'll shut off the lights."

She goes upstairs. Noel walks to a table. Several pictures are on it. One is of Noel and Arthur. He picks it up and rubs his finger over Arthur.

"Good-night, Arthur wherever you are."

He puts it down, goes to the stairs, turns off the lights and goes upstairs.

….

Noel is sleeping and starts to dream. In his dream Arthur sits by a burning fireplace reading a book. Noel comes in.

"What are you doing?"

"Reading."

He sits next to Arthur. The pages are blank.

"The pages are empty. There are no words," Noel says.

"It hasn't been written yet. The pages are waiting for you," Arthur says closing the book.

He puts his hand in Noel's and closes the book. Noel looks at the closed book and looks up. He looks up again and Arthur is gone. Instead he sits in Arthur's chair. He opens the book and sees written words. He starts to read. Noel wakes up and sits up.

"That was a weird dream."

…

He goes down the stairs to the living room and to his computer. He turns it on and goes into his word program. He sits and looks at the blank page for a few minutes.

"Arthur, tell me what to write. It's what the dream meant."

He gets the picture and puts it by his computer and sighs. He looks at the blank page and starts typing. The rest of this text will be what he was told by family or personally experienced with Arthur. After a few minutes he is inspired and types faster. Hours pass and he looks at the clock on his computer. He has been there for hours. He starts yawning. He saves his work, prints it and puts it in a folder he pulls out of his desk.

"You got your time, Arthur. I think I know what you mean me to write. See you tomorrow. Save time, same computer."

He shuts off his computer, goes back upstairs as he turns off the lights. Tonight is the birth of "Love Revisited."

…..

LOVE REVISITED – THE BOOK

Chicago 2001

Jack, Allison and baby Arthur are in a plane headed for Chicago from New York. Arthur is five days old. Allison has the window seat and looks out.

"There goes Lady Freedom. Good-bye New York," Allison says.

"I'll miss New York. I liked it. Will you, Ally?"

"Only my family. My parents are dead and Uncle Arthur lives in the Middle East. I have no one left."

"What am I, chopped liver?" Jack asks.

"You love that phrase, don't you?"

"I'll use it until I wear it out."

"What do you know about Chicago?" Allison asks.

"Only Al Capone but he was in the 1920's. I hope the gangsters are gone."

"Tell me again about our accommodations."

"BP leases houses all through the city. We got the one by the ball park. I hear traffic and parking are terrible. But we have a two car garage in back by the alley. It's a four bedroom, with three levels. The second is the living room, the kitchen, and dining room. And the basement has laundry facilities and storage."

"Is it furnished? Can we buy it?"

"We lease for one year with the option to buy. The lease is taken away off the price. But if we don't like it, BP will take the furniture back if we choose to buy and get our own. We're on our own for the two cars. All we pay is rent, utilities, and any changes we want to make internally."

"I wonder what Chicago looks like?"

"It's as big as New York but laid out flat. We have a home not a high-rise apartment."

"Why four bedrooms?"

"Maybe they think we'll have lots of kids. You are only nineteen and have many fertile years to go."

She looks out the window again.

"The water is gone. Now it's only land."

"We'll see water when we reach Chicago. It's on Lake Michigan."

"Looking forward to becoming American?"

He takes her hand.

"Yes, I and this little one will BOTH be Americans. I never thought I would ever see a little me. I know I helped make him but he has your coloring and your Uncle's eyes. He will think he was born in Chicago, not New York."

"His legs are long. He'll be a tall one."

"Once he's a teenager he will pat you on the head."

"I can't help I'm short. Jack, are you sorry you married me?"

"No, luv. I wanted too; but not at eighteen. I was hoping for at least twenty-one."

"I just hope people will be nicer there. I hated having to go to your office when I was pregnant. They saw my age and belly and gave me dirty looks. I know they ribbed you."

"That was their problem, not mine. I was happy with my decision. Now that Arthur is here people will see us differently. Chicago will be a new start. A member of the staff will be there to meet us when we got out. Just look for the sign saying "Hopkins".

He touches Arthur's hands. The baby holds his finger with his whole hand and looks up at him.

"I wonder what he's thinking."

"He's thinking who is the big guy and why is he always staring at me? I don't have that problem. He sees me as dinner. I'm so scared to be a mother. I hope I do it right."

"You'll do just fine. And you have me. I had practice with five siblings. We'll do just fine. Won't we Arthur Scott Hopkins?"

…

The plane lands and the three depart. Jack looks around and sees the sign.

"I see the sign."

The three walk over. A woman puts the sign down.

"Are you Jackson and Allison?"

"My name is Jack. My wife is Ally. And this little one is Arthur. He's only five days old. We left after 911."

"My name is Mary Grant. I work in your office. My, he is a cute one. Where did he get those eyes?"

"My Uncle Arthur. They're his."

"What's he staring at?"

"Your breasts. He thinks you're dinner. He does that to me too. Its instinct," Allison says.

"We'll get your bags and I'll bring the car around. You must be tired from your trip. I know you're curious about the house. I've seen it. It's quite darling," Mary says smiling at Arthur.

…..

Mary is driving to the house. Allison sits by her while Jack sits in back next to Arthur. They take turns looking out the windows.

"You have a lot of expressways," Jack says.

"It's a big city. I prefer streets myself. I live on a side street."

"I was raised in a home. Ally lived in a high-rise. I find homes quainter," Jack says.

"There you'll love your neighborhood. It's far enough from Cubs Park it will be quiet. There's a park a few blocks away and at least three big grocery stores. I shop at National. The meat looks better. You guys eat meat?"

"Yes. We're not veggies."

"The house is coming up. I have to get off this exit. Once I do you'll see the neighborhood. Yours is called Wrigleyville. Cubs Park is Wrigley Field. It's named after the guy who made the gum company. Ally, go into my purse and pull out the gum. You and Jack try some. I don't know if you have it in New Work."

"We have it," Jack says.

"Wrigley was born in Lakeview, on Lakeview and Arlington. The mansion is still there on the corner, by the park and the zoo. It's quite beautiful but it's surrounded by high-rises. It looks old."

"And where was Al Capone?"

"His territory was north of downtown, close to Michigan Avenue. He killed his rivals on Clark St right by the zoo entrance. We have a whole day together. I'll give you a tour after we get some lunch. I love giving the tours."

"And after that?" Jack asks.

"I will be your secretary. That's my real job at BP."

"Can we stop for a few minutes? I think we need a nappy change. I can smell it," Jack says.

"I'll stop at the next McDonald's. There's one coming up. Ally, you can run in and we'll get your lunch early."

….

Mary drives and passes Cub's Park.

"This is the ball park. It's a very lively street. There are plenty of bars and restaurants. I'd avoid this part of the block if you hate crowds. Will you be getting a car? You have a two car garage. I suggest you get one. This street is packed during games. Frankly I avoid this stretch, too many drunks. The house is coming up to your right. When you reach Clifton Street, turn left and keep on going for almost two miles and turn right. It's in the middle of the block. The address is 3713 N. Nelson. I'll give you the lease for the house."

She makes the turn and stop in front of the house. Jack and Allison look out.

"It's quite nice," Jack says.

"And far enough from the crowd and the noise. But I still suggest getting a car. I'll park us in the garage until I begin my tour."

She does and they enter the house from the back. A basketball hoop is on the back door.

"What's this?" Jack asks.

"The former tenant like basketball. He moved to a high-rise on Lake Shore Drive. He likes the elevators. Just follow me."

She goes into the kitchen. Jack and Allison look around.

"The kitchen furnishings are still new. Everything works. The next room is the dining room. It's quite large but this is my favorite part of the house. There's a built-in bookcase in the working fireplace. When Arthur starts school he'll have room for his school books."

"The door under the staircase leads to the basement. It's about the same area as the whole house. I suggest you buy snow equipment. It snows here and by the law you have to keep your front sidewalks clear for pedestrians to walk. There you're on your own. That's why the former tenant left. He hated shoveling."

"You seem to know a lot about him," Allison says.

"I should. He's my ex-husband. This was our house. My sons played hoops out back."

"Where are your sons now?" Allison asks.

"My youngest lives in Wisconsin and my eldest killed in Vietnam. We married too early. Our son was the right age to be drafted. If you follow we'll go upstairs."

They do.

"The master bedroom is up here. The small ones are by the kitchen. The four rooms are here."

Jack sees marks by a wall.

"What are these marks?" Jack asks.

"I'll paint over those. I forgot. We recorded our son's height as they grew. Sorry about that."

"Don't bother. It makes the house look lived in. I like that. My dad did the same with us," Jack says.

"It's a dad thing."

"Look around. Check the size in the bedrooms. Three have no furniture. The master room still has it. You'll need a place to sleep. I think I have an old crib at home. We'll pick it up today after the tour of Chicago and the neighborhood."

"Thank you, Mrs. Grant."

"Jack, call me Mary. We'll be working together. What will you do, Ally while he's at work?"

"I'll be taking college classes online while I take care of Arthur. When he gets to be two I'll take my classes live. Jack insists I get my full education. We can't help getting pregnant this early in my life."

"Life happens, Ally. And your husband is very handsome. It helps he's British. It's a lovely accent and a lovely country."

"I'll be taking a course of my own. I'm becoming an American Citizen. It's the least I can do for my family. This country is now my home," Jack says.

"Very good, Jack. Just don't lose the accent. You have a lovely voice."

"Not when he yells "O Bloody Hell!" Allison says.

"I won't be doing that at work, Ally."

The two check the bedrooms. Mrs. Grant looks at the markings on the wall. She starts to feel sad. The two come behind her.

"Bringing back memories, Mrs. Grant?" Allison asks.

"I was happy here, until the divorce. There was love in this house."

"And there will be again, Mary. Now let's look at the lease," Jack says.

…..

CHICAGO – 2002

One year has passed. Jack comes home from work. Allison is in the kitchen. Arthur is in his baby seat. He puts his briefcase on the table and kisses Allison.

"Hello, luv. How was school today?"

"Fine. Arthur helped me with my homework. He started to make noise. I think he's trying to talk. It sounds like a sentence."

"He'll talk soon. What's for dinner?"

"Now I know you're American. You used to call it supper. I made my mother's meatloaf."

"Hmmm, Arthur's favorite. He'll be happy."

"It's almost done."

"I'll use a setting to finish up some work."

He sits down, opens up his briefcase and pulls out his papers. He looks at Arthur and smiles. Arthur smiles back and starts speaking.

"Mommy."

Jack's eyes open up.

"Ally, he just said his first word."

She goes to them.

"Say it again, Arthur."

"Mommy."

"He's got my sex wrong, but it's clear," Jack says.

Arthur looks at Allison.

"Daddy."

"I think the boy's confused. But we'll work on that. At least he knows who we are. I wish my parents could see this?"

"I wish Uncle Arthur was here. He's busy being a soldier."

Arthur laughs.

"He must think something is funny," Jack says.

Allison laughs.

"And so do you? What's the joke?"

"I went to the doctor today. Arthur will have a sibling. We're pregnant. We have to wait one more year for live school," Allison says.

He takes her hands.

"They can wait. That's the best excuse I have ever heard. You made me very happy, luv. This time it will be a girl. Then we can wait a few more years so you can get your classes."

He kisses her. Arthur opens up his arms to Jack and Allison.

"I think he wants a kiss too," Allison says with a tear running down her face.

Jack takes him out of his chair and hugs him. Arthur kisses him.

"Mommy," he says again.

"We're going to work on that confusion young man," Jack says.

He hands him to Ally and rubs the boys back as Arthur kisses Allison.

"Daddy."

Jack and Allison laugh.

….

SIX MONTHS LATER

Jack and Allison are getting ready to go to the doctor. Arthur is in his stroller. The parents ignore him. He climbs out of the stroller.

"Ready, luv. All we need is Arthur."

"I'll get him. And this time we're strapping him down. He's getting too smart for his britches."

Jack starts to reach for him when Allison stops him.

"Why did you stop me?"

"He's not crawling. I think he's trying to walk. Look at his knees."

Arthur goes on his knees and pulls his butt up. He stands and laughs. Jack pulls his arms.

"Come to Daddy, Arthur."

He starts walking slowly until he reaches Jack. Both parents are amazed. He goes into Jack's arms. Jack turns him to Allison. She opens her arms.

"Come to mommy, Arthur."

He slowly walks to her and kisses her.

"Daddy."

The parents are crying happy tears and laughing.

"He can walk but he is still confused," Jack says crying.

"Now we really have to strap him down," Allison says.

Allison continues hugging him.

…..

Allison is on the doctors table. She is attached to an ultrasound. Jack is by her and Arthur is trying to untie the straps. He is not having luck. The doctor looks over.

"Your son is hitting the terrible two's. Time to Arthur proof the house. My son always pulled plugs. We had to put up a fence. Maybe that's why he's an electrician," the doctor says.

"He walked today for the first time. But he still calls me mommy and Ally daddy," Jack says.

"That will change soon. Let's see if he's getting a brother or sister?" the doctor says moving the sensor over her belly.

They hear a strong heart.

"This one is a strong one. Now let's see what it is," the doctor says.

The doctor smiles.

"Why are you smiling, doctor?" Jack asks.

"I have some good news and bad news. The bad news I can see what it is. The good news is it's another boy. You'll have to try again for a girl."

Arthur has undone the strap.

"Jack, your son is loose. Find him before he gets hurt. I have sharp instruments here."

Jack looks down and sees Arthur by his leg. He is laughing and smiling.

"I think I found him, doc."

Jack bends down and picks him up.

"Where can we find a better stroller with two straps? With two boys we'll need it," Jack asks.

…

Allison brings home the new baby, Joseph Robert Hopkins. Jack carries Arthur and puts him down. Allison sits down and puts Joe on her lap. Jack puts Arthur on the couch next to Allison. Arthur looks at Joe for the first time.

"Arthur, meet your brother Joey."

Arthur looks at him. He puts his hand on Joe and covers it.

"He has small hands, just like you did when you were born," Jack says.

"Will he get big?"

"He'll get very big. And so will you. You're his big brother. Make sure you take care of him. He'll be your responsibility," Jack says.

"No girl?"

"Mommy and I have to try again. The next time will be a girl."

"Can I kiss him?"

"You can kiss him. He won't know what that means for years."

Arthur bends down and kisses his cheek. Joe looks deep into Arthur's eyes and starts to cry. Arthur gets upset.

"I made him cry."

"He doesn't know you yet. It's time to put you in your play free play ground," Jack says picking him up and going upstairs.

Allison holds Joe. Jack comes back.

"I hope he stays there. He's going to be a devil. I can see it now. Let's put Joey into his bed. He needs some sleep," Jack says.

…..

CHICAGO – TWO YEARS LATER

Arthur is five and Joe is two. Arthur is on the couch watching TV while Joe sits locked in his stroller. Allison comes home from school. Jack comes out of the kitchen wearing an apron. He has been cooking. Allison puts her books on the table.

"How was class?"

"Interesting. We learned about early American history. The white man wasn't so nice to Indians. They tortured them in the name of Manifest Destiny. "

"And what was that?"

"They wanted to expand so they took their land. They tortured them in the name of American progress. The things we did to them were terrible. What bothers me the most is the text books? The books we have to use won't even say that. The students will never know the truth because our books are outdated. We have no choice but to lie."

"That's history for you Ally. You yanks don't know the real history of the American Revolution with England. That's forgotten too."

"Sometimes I hate history."

"Maybe by the time you graduate the books will be more modern and you won't have to lie. Actually it's not a lie. They just don't tell you the whole truth. At least now the blacks are told their real history. Next will be the Indians. And then the Japanese. No one talks about their concentration camps in WW II," Jack says.

"How are the boys?"

"Joe hasn't untied his straps yet and Arthur anxiously awaits your meatloaf."

"Yeah, Mom. Hurry up. I'm hungry. School can wait," Arthur says.

"I think I liked him better when he called me Daddy," Allison says walking away.

Jack takes off his apron and sits by Arthur. He taps his hand.

"Son, don't be so bossy with your mother. She is finally in school. She's going to be a teacher. The meatloaf can wait until she's ready. When did you become so bossy?"

"I'm not bossy. I'm pushy. I like things my way."

"What that attitude you'll be a lawyer," Jack say getting up and walking away.

"What's a lawyer?"

"A man with a big mouth," Jack says turning and pointing his finger at Arthur.

Jack takes the apron and goes back into the kitchen. Arthur goes to Joe's stroller, unties the strap and puts him on his lap. He stares at Joe and Joe gets scared.

"What's the matter, Joe? My eyes scare you. I can't help it. I was born with them."

Joe looks at him.

"Dad says I have to take care of you. I will, Joe. I love you. I'm sorry if my eyes scare you."

Arthur hugs him. He faces Joe and Arthur kisses the end of Joe's nose. Jack and Allison watch from the kitchen. They smile.

"That's one problem we won't have. Those two boys love each other. They'll be good friends," Allison says.

"Hell no, luv. I had two brothers. We were never friends. There was love but there was also fighting. Don't let Arthur fool you."

….

CHICAGO – TWO YEARS LATER

Allison is at school. She is given her new school books. She looks it over. There is no mention of Manifest Destiny. The word Indian is only mentioned once in a very small paragraph. She goes into the Principal's office.

"Have you a minute?"

"Yes. Ally. Have a seat. How can I help you?'

"I just got the new book for my American history class. I would like to wage a complaint. It's wrong. It's very inaccurate. The years of 1838 to 1850 makes no mention of Manifest Destiny or the Trail of Tears. I learned about them in class. If I have to stick to this book my students will go on believing the Indians gave us their land and walked away happy. That's just one problem with this edition."

"It's the latest edition of the book you had last year and you never complained."

"Not here, but at home I did. I looked at the WWII chapters. There is no mention of the American Japanese concentration camps. We had one north of us. It's now an army base."

"Mrs. Hopkins-,"

"You always call me that when I'm in trouble."

"Ally, you are not in trouble. All the high schools are using this book."

"And that's why we are raising historical dummies. Where is the truth in these books? If it wasn't for Roots, this book wouldn't even mention slavery. Our students are black. They know their history because everyone had a family member who was a slave. We can't lie to them about that. We have NO Indian students. We have NO Japanese students. What about those Americans?"

"Finished, Mrs. Hopkins?"

"Yes."

"There is an exhibition of Indigenous photographs at the American Indian center. I would like to take my class there. I want them to see the proof that's not even mentioned in this book I have to teach from. Do I have permission?"

The Principal sighs.

"Will that make you happy, Mrs. Hopkins?"

"It will be a start."

"You have my permission."

The Principal reaches into a folder and pulls out a one-sided sheet of paper.

"This is a permission slip. Fill in the dates and Xerox them for all your students. Make sure every parent is a real signature. Children their age can be very creative with these."

"Thank you," Allison says rising and taking the sheet.

She starts to leave.

"Mrs. Hopkins, don't make this a habit. We teach with the books we are given. You are the only instructor complaining."

"If I was a math teacher, I wouldn't care. One and one will always equal two. History is not like that. Sometimes one and one equals five."

"Ally, for what's it worth, I agree with you. I want to tell the truth. It's the school board that tells me what to do and teach. I have to think of my job before I think of anyone else's."

She leaves. The Principal sighs.

"Good luck, Mrs. H."

….

Allison is at her desk. The students come in and sit down. She stands before them with an eraser in her hand.

"Good morning, class. I know last class I assigned you to read chapter seven. You have a new assignment. You will forget chapter seven. Everything in it is BULLSHIT."

The class is stunned.

"None of it is true. In fact, most of this recent addition is BULLSHIT. I have discussed this with the Principal, almost at the loss of my job. I have decided to teach history my way. I will be telling you, my students, only the truth from now on. Forget chapter seven."

"How will you teach us?"

"I'll teach you by showing you. In fact we'll all learn together. I will be handing out a permission slip for your parents to sign and return. Make sure you or some other student does not sign them. It's for next Friday. I would like to take you to a photographical exhibit at the American Indian center on Wilson and Ashland. There are pictures I want you to see. They were not staged. There wasn't photo shop in the 1840's. We will go through the pictures as a group. That will be chapter seven."

"Won't you get fired, Mrs. Hopkins?"

"I hope not. But I will not help graduate historical dummies. I don't care what the school board says. My husband buys and sells oil for BP. He makes good money. I don't need to work. I love to work. I love my students and I want them to know the true American history. Not the BULLSHIT in this book."

"What will we see?"

"The exhibit is called "The Trail of Tears". It's about an actual physical march the American Indians are forced to do in the 1840's, Five tribes, east of the Mississippi, had their land stolen and then they were forced to walk thousands of miles to their new homes, reservations, now in the state of Oklahoma. One hundred thousand men, women and children died from starvation alone. Chapter seven mentions Indian lands only once. It says they gave it to us. Don't tell that to the one hundred thousand people who died. Does one have to be Jewish to know genocide? That's what those pictures are, genocide."

"I know you heard that word with Jews. The holocaust was the not the first use of that word. You hear the term "The Final Solution". It was an American who used it first, President Calvin Coolidge. The Nazis studied what to do with the final solution by studying what WE did to the Indians. The only exception was the gas chamber and that's because they didn't have gas chambers in 1840. The white man, ever since the Pilgrim's landing at Plymouth Rock, has become ASSHOLES. Thanksgiving is a joke. The Indians and Pilgrims didn't have a Sunday brunch like everyone believes. Forty years later, the Pilgrims took the Indian land by trying to kill them. Yours is not the only group that was almost eliminated."

"Prepare to be shocked. You and your black families were not the only ones to suffer. Without Alex Haley no one would know. You're lucky. Everyone knows now. Best of all, they believe it."

"Mrs. H? Are you Indian?"

"Not a drop of blood. I don't even know any. I'm from New York. My husband is British. To my knowledge I am one hundred percent white. Why should I care what happened to another group I know nothing of? I care because they were and are people. It's what I was taught in church. Everyone one is God's child and deserves respect. These people weren't respected. They were treated like trash and called the Indian Problem. We are all God's children. Never forget that. Think about that when you see their faces."

She hands out the permission slips.

"And now, for today's lesson, I want to jump to WWII. I am going to tell you another fact, not in this book. We put our OWN American Japanese citizens in concentration camps in WWII. The war ran three years, 1942-1945. We took their land and put the camps on American soil. We even had one north of Chicago. It was big and now a recognized army base."

A student raises his hand.

"Mrs. H.? You're going to get canned if you keep this up."

"Being canned with not stop the truth. It will even evidently come out. I am not afraid and neither should you be."

…..

Allison and her class are at the American Indian center. They start at the pictures.

"This is the beginning of the "Trail of Tears". Here are pictures of the five tribes involved."

"Those pictures look scratched."

"They're over two hundred years old. Some have been fixed. They did the best they could. Look at their faces," Allison says.

"They look tired and sad."

"Some are some old."

"They lived in the same place for generations," Allison continues.

"Why are there so many pictures?"

"Congress was very proud of their work. They wanted the world the world to know. You see the Indians weren't considered people. The Nazis felt the same way. It was our Indian problem. On to the next picture. It's a map of how far they had to walk to get to Oklahoma."

"Are those body bags?"

"Yes, they are. Many people were buried on their way to their new home."'

"So many?"

"The final figure was about one hundred thousand. It was a trial of dead bodies. Keep going class."

Two Indian men approach the group. Their hair is short and father and son. The son is in army fatigues. The class moves to every picture as Allison speaks. The men follow. They reach the end of the pictures. The class is very disturbed.

"Mrs. H? Why didn't our books contain this information?"

"The government wanted later to hide it. Every President during the middle 1800's wanted to stop the Indian problem. Honest Abe even counted them as sub-human. He helped the slaves but cared nothing for the TRUE Americans, the first nation."

"Is this where it ended?"

"Those pictures, yes. But it didn't end here. After they moved to reservations Congress declared they found an easier solution to the problem. They would destroy the family unit. They took their children away and put them in Catholic run Residential schools. If the parents tried to stop them they were put in jail or killed. The children had their hair cut. They were told never to speak their own language. Their clothes were burned. They children were tortured, starved and raped by the Priests and the Nuns. There was a saying at those schools."

"Kill the Indian and save the child," the father says.

All turn to the two men. He walks up to them.

"They did it all to save our souls."

"And who are you?" Allison asks.

"My name is Thomas Hawk. This is my son Robert. We are Indians from Arizona. We're visiting Chicago."

"Where's your hair?"

"My son is in the army. I got out a few years ago. The army doesn't allow long hair. Some of us cut our own hair on our own. And you are?"

"I'm Mrs. Hopkins, their instructor. I teach American history. I wanted them to know the whole truth. The school board would rather they don't."

"How many times have I heard that? That's very brave, Mrs. Hopkins. I believe I can help you. My wife and I are survivors of those schools. We were both raped and tortured. My wife had a child taken from her after birth. The babies were killed. Some bodies were used to fuel the cooking system. They used wood back then. Some weren't killed. They were sold to white families for ten dollars. She never saw her baby again. Should I continue?"

"Please do," Allison says.

"I have a question. If the country did that to you, why did you fight for it?"

"We all did it for different reason, just like your people did in Vietnam. We even were used as code takers in Japan. We were call wind talkers. The troops used our Navaho language to confuse the Japanese in the Eastern war. In my case, my service for this country saved my son's life. My wife and I lived on base. When the Americans in Germany came for my son I refused. He was born in Germany. The Germans denied the American request. Robert was spared. I enlisted until he was old enough NOT to be called. As soon as he was safe I made it my last tour and we came home. Robert was spared the Residential schools."

"Tell us more, Mr. Hawk?" Allison asks.

He does. The class is totally captivated.

"Do you guys have Indian names?"

"Mine is Eagle Hawk. My son is White Elk."

"White Elk, what do you call your father?"

"Dad."

"And what do you call your son?"

"Lately I call him a pain-in-the ass."

The students laugh. White Elk gets upset.

"I think I'm going somewhere else. I'll see you in the car, Dad," White Elk says walking away.

"Any more questions?"

"Thank you for your help, Mr. Hawk. You have given my class a true experience," Allison says.

"I'm glad I did."

She walks up to him.

"Mr. Hawk, I want to repay you. It would be an honor if you and your son would honor our home with your presence for dinner tonight. My husband would love to meet you."

"We could consider it an honor. Just give me your address."

"I have to warn you. I have two sons. My youngest is shy and quiet. He's an angel. My eldest is pushy, bossy and very aggravating. He will have a million questions."

"And I will have a million answers. I am afraid of no man's son. Mine is bad enough."

"I find that hard to believe. Dinner will be at six-thirty."

"See you at 6:30, Mrs. Hopkins."

"Please call me Ally."

"Now where is my son?" Thomas says laughing and walking away.

…

Allison is getting the house ready for dinner. The table is set for eight. She is very anxious. Jack comes in. He is calm.

"That man must be important. I've never seen you like this."

"He is, Jack. He told my class all they need to know and more. Tom is very smart and charming."

"What's his son?"

"He got miffed and walked away. He'll never amount to anything. His dad called him a pain."

"And will you have a job after today's trip?"

"I hope so."

Jack looks out the living room window.

"A car just drove up and two men are walking to the door."

Jack walks to the door and waits for the knock. He opens the door to the two men.

"Hello, I'm Tom Hawk and this is my son. Ally invited us."

"Please come in. She's waiting for you. She's getting dinner ready. Ally, they're here."

Tom gives Jack a bottle of wine.

"We brought some wine. I hope that's fine," Tom says.

"Thank you."

"You definitely are related. My name is Jack. I'm the Brit."

"I can hear. I heard enough accents when I served in Europe."

They walk into the dining room.

"Where did you serve?" Jack asks.

"West Berlin. That's where my son was born. Elvis used to stand guard at my base. I have his autograph somewhere."

"My name is Bob."

"Does that make him German or American?"

"Both. I was born on American soil, my dad's base."

Allison comes in and goes to the three.

"I'm glad you could come. Jack, this is Tom and Bob."

"We just met. No Indian names?"

"My name is Eagle Hawk. Bob is White Elk. For tonight we will be just Tom and Bob."

"Tom gave us a bottle of wine for dinner. Red, perfect. We're having meat. It's time you met our two boys."

Jack goes to the bottom of the stairs.

"Boys, please come down. It's time you met our guests."

Arthur and Joe come down. Arthur is already getting tall. Joe has to catch up.

"Boys, these are the two Indians I met at the center. The tall one is Arthur and Joe is the short one."

"Hello, boys. You have charming children, Ally," Tom says.

"I think I helped in that," Jack says.

"Arthur has Ally's coloring. Joe is a mini you," Bob says.

"Dinner ready, luv?"

"It's still in the oven."

"Are you really Indian?" Arthur asks.

"We're Apache," Bob says.

"Where's your long hair?"

"I'm in the army. Dad has been out for a few years. The army doesn't like long hair."

"You two, please sit down at the table. I'll help Ally in the kitchen."

Jack leaves. The two men sit down. The boys sit across from them. Arthur stares at them. Joe shyly looks down.

"Do you live in tents?"

"We live in houses. Our ancestors lived in tents," Tom says.

"That was before the white man came," Bob says.

Allison and Jack bring in plates of food.

"Tonight will be family style. She made her meatloaf. I made the mashed potatoes and vegetables. Dessert is pecan pie. I get it from a diner I patron."

"Jack is always over there. He's called "Pecan Pie Man". He loves Mary's."

They sit down.

"We always say grace. Are you Christian?" Jack asks.

"The church tried with me. I fought them. We believe in the Creator," Tom says.

"So, he's your God head? Then we'll skip grace for tonight."

"Do you speak Indian?" Arthur asks.

"I do. I am teaching my son. He speaks English and German."

"Say something in German," Arthur asks.

Bob does.

"What did you say?"

"You don't want to know, son," Bob says.

"Robert, behave. Now it's our turn to ask questions. What do you want to be when you grow up, Arthur?"

"A rock star."

"Last week it was President of the United States," Jack says.

"No law says you can't be both," Tom says.

"Arthur is so vocal he would make a good lawyer. His first words were mommy and daddy. Only he called me mommy and Ally daddy."

"What about you Joe?"

"I don't know yet."

"You're very quiet. Your brother isn't."

"Joe is very shy. Some days we never hear him speak," Allison says.

"That's not normal, Ally. Little boys are very talkative. Bob would never shut up. We always knew he was and who he was with."

"And where was he?" Allison asks.

"With the young German Frauleins. I think that's where he learned about sex. The frauleins were always older women, older than the girls his own age."

"They heard enough, Dad."

"You were smart, Bob. Go where the smart girls are. They're more fun."

"Arthur, you're only seven. Take it slow," Jack says.

"I forgot the pitas,'' Allison says getting up and going to the kitchen.

She comes back with pitas.

"I know you make fry bread. The closest they had were pitas."

Bob takes one.

"Oh, you can stuff these. I like to put in feta cheese, cucumbers and tomatoes covered with spices," Bob says.

"That sounds good. Where did you do that?"

"I spent a week with Greek soldiers. They were visiting from Afghanistan. One was a cook. He would treat us with grape leaves."

"Dolmades. Ally and I go to a place in Greektown."

"Too bad you don't have feta cheese. It melts real well in the microwave," Bob says.

"I have a brick in the fridge and a few tomatoes. We just bought cucumbers. I could make a plate," Allison says.

"Give me the supplies. I'll make it. It's a shame to waste the pita pocket. Lead me to the kitchen," Bob says.

"Is it okay, Jack?" Allison asks.

"Don't bother me. Show him what we have."

"Come with me, Bob."

Bob and Allison leave.

"Ally said Bob was a pain. He's quite charming." Jack says.

"Only when he's hungry. He eats like a horse. He can be sweet when he wants to."

"You sound disappointed, Tom."

"I don't see him amounting to anything. He keeps rejoining the army to avoid his wife and children. It's not a happy marriage. I know there's someone else Afghanistan. He doesn't think I do."

Allison comes back and sits down.

"He's cutting. He's also adding some unions. He's a good man to have."

Jack looks at Tom who shakes his head.

"Ally, the meatloaf is fantastic," Tom says.

"She has a secret ingredient," Jack says.

"No secret. It's cinnamon. I can taste it. We use it when we cook," Tom says.

Bob comes in with a full plate of supplies and puts it on the table.

"Dig in folks. Make your pockets," Bob says starting to fill his.

"Let's open the wine and let it breathe," Jack says, opening it and pouring.

"To comrades," Tom says toasting.

They toast.

"Very good, Bob. Nice idea," Jack says.

"We'll get the pie after the pitas, luv."

"You're very British, Jack," Bob says.

"Something's you don't lose. You should hear me when I say "O bloody hell"."

"He says that a lot, mostly at Arthur."

"He can be quite a character. When he was a baby he was able to unsnap his stroller seat at an early age. I'm glad he didn't teach Joe that." Jack says.

"I tried. Joe couldn't get it. He's slow," Arthur says.

"Just because someone is shy doesn't make him slow. He'll come out of his shell," Bob says.

"You should speak. You were never shy, Bob."

"Bet you wish I was," Bob say smirking.

Jack clears his throat.

"I'll bring the pie out," Allison says rising and leaving.

"Say something, Joe," Bob says.

"Did you like dinner?" Jack asks.

"Mom makes good meatloaf."

Allison brings the pie. Jack cuts pieces and distributes them.

"It was a fine meal, Ally," Tom says.

"I wanted to pay you back for your help today."

"And you did. I just hope you still have a job." Tom says.

"So do I," Jack adds.

"Was it painful to talk about your experiences in the schools?" Jack asks.

"It was. But it helps to get the negative feelings out. Hopefully those students will tell others and they won't be secrets anymore."

"How did Bob get away?"

"I kept him in Germany until he was old enough not to go. Others in my reservation weren't so lucky. A few of our children committed suicide after the priests hurt them. My wife was raped by a priest. She had a baby. The day it was born, the nuns took it away. It still bothers her and it's been many years."

"How old was she?" Jack asks.

"She was fourteen. We married and had Bob. But the first pregnancy ruined our chances to have more. We tried. Bob was it. His wife, Bette, was in a school when they stopped reinforcing the laws. She was saved before she was hurt. Her sister didn't have to go."

"I'm sorry to hear that."

"Daddy?"

"Yes, Joe?"

"May I draw now?"

"You may. The crayons are on the living room table."

Joe leaves for the living room. Bob looks at him.

"Is it alright if I talk to him?" Bob asks.

"I don't see why not."

"Maybe there's another reason he's slow?" Bob asks.

"Mr. Hawk. My son is not retarded. People say he is but he's not. He's just quiet," Allison says in an angry tone.

"That's not what I meant, Ally?"

"It's Mrs. Hopkins to you, Robert. He just needs more time to come out."

"Sorry, if you'll excuse me," Bob says going to the living room.

He sits next to Joe who is drawing.

"Bob meant no harm, ma'am. But maybe he's right. Children his age are very rarely that quiet. Have his ears been checked? It may be a minor deafness. It could be that easy. He may be reading your lips and you don't know it."

"Joe does not need to be checked. He's just different from Arthur," Allison says.

Bob looks at the picture.

"What are you drawing? What is it? It looks like a landscape."

"It's a desert."

"I see it now. Here is the sand and the mountains. You even have a full moon. Are those stick people?"

"No, they're cactus."

"Cactus is not that thin. Not even when they're small. I'll show you how to draw one. Let's put it on the back."

He draws one.

"A cactus is a very big plant with sharp pins. They're also full of cooling rich milk. They can be milked just like cows. The milk is sweet and very refreshing."

"How do you milk them?"

"Very carefully. You don't want to drain them empty. We just take what we need. It drinks the water from the ground and makes more milk later. Just like a cow. You don't have to kill them. A cactus is a good friend. Why did you draw a desert?"

"I like deserts. One day, I want to move there. I like the free space."

Bob smiles.

"You know, Joe. You're actually talking. You don't have to be so shy. Why don't you talk?"

"I have nothing to say."

"That's a good answer."

Allison, Tom and Jack watch them and listen.

"I don't believe it. He got him to talk," Allison says.

"Maybe you're talking to him about the wrong things. Bob has no problem."

"Let's quiet up and listen."

"What do you like most?"

"I like music. I don't want to be a rock star like Arthur. I don't want to be famous. I like to sing."

"Sing something for me."

"I don't know any words. I make up my own."

"You should write them down."

"I can't read yet. I will when I go to school."

"Looks like you want to go to a desert and make music. That's a beautiful thought. I don't always live at the Rez. I'm always in Afghanistan. Maybe someday, if you go to Arizona, look me up. My dad lives in Tohono. I may be visiting. We can sing together."

"Okay. I like you, Bob."

"And I like you, Joe."

Joe smiles at Bob.

"He's smiling, Jack. He never does. Can we keep your son? He's just done a miracle."

"I wish you could. I have never seen him so sweet. That's not my boy. I think it's a pod."

"I saw that movie," Jack says.

"Have we met before, Joe"

"I don't think so.

"I feel like I know you. Maybe in a past life."

"In a what?"

"You'll learn about that when you get older. It's too hard to explain. Maybe we were meant to meet again, when you're older. I hope we remember this night. We can walk in your desert, drink cactus milk, and under a full moon. All we're missing are the wolves."

"Can I go to my room, Mom, "Arthur asks.

"Yes," Allison answers crying.

She wipes her tears. Tom is stunned.

"My son does have a heart. It has to be a pod," Tom says,.

Bob and Joe continue talking. He gets him to laugh. Bob hugs Joe.

…

WASHINGTON D.C. – THIRTY-EIGHT YEARS LATER

White Elk and Bette are sleeping. He is now President of the United State. It is the middle of his term. He opens his eyes and sits up.

"Why didn't I remember that? How could I have forgotten?" White Elk asks.

He shakes Bette awake.

"Bette, wake up."

She does and gives him a dirty look.

"What do you want? I was having a nice dream. I was just about to be ravished by some young warrior stud."

"What? I was having a nice dream too and it didn't involve a stud. Only it wasn't a dream."

"Don't tell me. It was a vision. Arthur did that."

"It was a memory. I met the Hopkins boys before. I just forgot about it. It was so clear."

"Okay, tell me about it."

"I was in-between army tours. I was in my early twenties. Dad and I were visiting Chicago. We were at the Indian center. A young female teacher and her black teenage students were looking at pictures of "The Trail of Tears". She started to tell them about the Residential schools when Dad spoke up. He ended up lecturing to her class."

"I know. Your dad told me."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"You never asked. Go on. You met the teacher."

"She invited us for dinner that night. We met her husband. He was British. His name was Jack. Her name was Allison."

"Hopkins?" Bette says waking up and sitting up.

"It was them. We went over and met her two sons. The eldest was seven. Oh, he was obnoxious. That was young Arthur. His younger brother Joe was shy and quiet. I talked to him and got him out of his shell. Noel was born autistic, even then. I could see it. His parents couldn't. They refused to believe there was something wrong. He was only four. I remember what we said and did."

"Tell me."

"He drew a landscape picture of a desert with mountains, a full moon and the skinniest cactus I ever saw. I showed him how to really draw them. He wanted to see the desert and sing songs. I said we would do it together when we would meet again. Noel was sweet as Joe. Arthur was a pain. I remember hugging Joe. He really needed love and he wasn't getting it. I wanted to adopt him that night."

"You did it later instead. Was he that different?"

"He was so pure and sweet. He had the face of an angel. Now I know why I remember his eyes when he was shot by the Taliban."

"What will you do now?"

"I'm going to call him tomorrow. I wonder if he remembers. Small world. I still remember what Arthur was saying. Dad asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up. He said a rock star and President. He grew up and did both. Both boys did their dreams."

"What about you? Did you?"

"I guess I did. What time is it?"

"Go back to bed, Bob. Call him in the morning."

"What's the time difference with Arizona?"

"Two hours. Good-night, Bob. I want to go back to my stud before I forget."

…..

CHICAGO – THIRTY-FOUR YEARS EARLIER.

Arthur is now eleven and Joe is nine. They are both practicing their guitars. Joe is having trouble with bar chords.

"I'll never get this, Art."

"Yes, you will, Joe. Keep trying. It's not hard."

"Your hands are bigger than mine."

"They're not. You just have fat fingers. Try it again."

"I give up," Joe says putting down the guitar and walking out.

"Joey!"

Jack walks by Arthur's room.

"Something wrong, son?"

"I'm trying to show him bar chords. He's being stubborn and walked out."

Jack sits on the bed.

"Son, don't push your brother. He is trying. He's not like you. He never was."

"You sure he's not retarded?"

"Don't say that before your mother. She'll wack you. She loves him. "

"More than me? You always treat him special."

"We treat you boys the same. We don't have favorites. It's just you're more outgoing. You always have been. Now apologize to him."

"I didn't say anything wrong?"

"Apologize anyway. You two will have each other. Tell him you love him."

"I do love him."

"Tell him. He's sitting on the back steps."

….

Joe is on the back steps. Arthur comes and sits by him. Joe ignores him.

"Got a minute. I need your advice."

"My advice?"

"You see, I have this friend and he has a brother. My friend is outgoing and his brother is not. My friend does everything right and his brother needs help sometimes."

"What do you want me to say?"

"How do I tell him how to treat his brother?"

"Tell him not to be so pushy. Let his brother try on his own. Maybe it just takes him longer to get things right."

"I'll do that. Joe, I'm sorry if I hurt you. I just expect too much of you. I was wrong. Please forgive me."

"For what? You didn't do anything."

"Yes I did. You're my little brother. You haven't bloomed yet. I'm pushing you too hard."

"I'm not a flower, Art. Only flowers bloom."

"It's the only thing I could think of. I love you, Joe. I always will. I love you as you are. I will try in the future not to be so pushy when you have trouble. I'll slow down until you're ready. It's just guitar. It can wait."

"Are my fingers really that fat?"

"They're not long and thin like mine. I got mom's petite frame. You got Dad's hunky side. We both take after different parents. Let's shoot some hoops. You're better than me at that."

"We'll do the hoops tomorrow. I want to try the bar chords again. I love guitar."

"So do I. I like when we harmonize. We sound good. Maybe one day we'll perform together on stage. We could call ourselves "The Hopkins Brothers". Would you like that?"

"Sing in front of strangers? That's scary."

"I think it would be fun. Think about it. The world won't see you. They'll see us, together."

"And when do you want to do this?"

"Only when you're ready, not before. I won't push you."

"I can't until I can play bar chords. We have to play together, not apart."

"Agreed. You sure you don't want hoops?"

"Positive. Let's go back inside and try again. It shouldn't be that hard."

"I love you, Joe."

The boys hug each other. Jack and Allison watch from the kitchen and smile. They turn their back as the boys come through the kitchen. They are both smiling.

"I hope they'll always be that happy," Allison says.

"Me too, luv."

….

Arthur is sixteen and Joe is fourteen. Joe has caught up with Arthur's height. The boys are tall. They are at the beach in swimwear. Arthur looks at the girls and smiles.

"Now that's what I call entertainment. What do you think, Joe?"

"They're okay."

"Okay? Half of the girls are almost naked. Just like I love them."

Joe is lost in thought.

"Earth calling Joe?"

"Huh?"

"I brought you here to get some air and see the girls. You don't know any."

"I'm too busy for girls. I read."

"Tell me about it. All you see are computers. You're a real geek."

"I'll have you know geeks make good money. Think of Microsoft."

"And you will be rich?"

"I don't know. I just love computers. I hope we'll have enough money so I can go to college classes. You have good grades. I don't."

"And if we don't have the money?"

"The army pays for schools. I just have to finish one tour."

"You're not army material. They're fighters. You're not. You like hiding."

"I'll become a fighter for college money. We're not rich. We have to take the bus to school. No cars for us. You have big law school plans. You drop your GPA and we work McDonald's. You're lucky Lane is a public school."

Two men come by and set a blanket near them. They are young and virile looking. One man grabs the others hand and kisses it. Arthur is turned off.

"Damn queers."

"That's not nice to say, bro."

"They're faggots. Why aren't they on their side of the beach? This is the straight side."

"There's no such thing as a straight side."

The two boys kiss each other.

"Yuk! What good is a sexy girl looking if the men here are gay?"

"Maybe they feel safe. Men won't rape them with their eyes, like a certain older brother I know. The whole world is becoming gay."

"Our family isn't. We two are not."

"I wouldn't be so sure about that," Joe says.

Arthur's face goes white. He takes Joe's arm.

"Please tell me that's a joke."

"It's a joke."

Joe starts laughing.

"I got your there."

Two girls put a blanket next to their other side. Arthur starts smiling.

"Now that's much better."

The two girls hold hands and smile. Joe starts laughing louder. He can't stop. Arthur is miffed.

"If only you could see your face?"

"You made your point. I liked you shy and quiet."

Joe slows down and looks at the beach. He sees the remaining men and smiles. He wasn't joking.

…

Joe waits. A boy his age comes to the door. Arthur sits in the living room. Joe grabs a bat and the two boys leave. Jack comes in.

"Where's Joe going?"

"He and Larry are playing ball in the park."

"They do that a lot," Jack says.

"At least all they do is play ball."

"Something wrong, son?"

"The whole world is turning gay," Arthur says leaving the room.

"What does that mean?"

…

The two boys are walking.

"How long do you think we'll get away with that excuse? Your Dad's not stupid."

"But my brother is. What time will your dad be back from work?"

"It's overtime Saturday. He's the assistant boss," Larry says.

"The bus is coming."

"Beat you to the bus stop."

….

They enter the apartment. Joe puts down the bat. Larry turns and faces Joe. They become silent. Joe slowly walks up to Larry and holds his hands. They embrace.

…

Joe and Larry are in bed. They hold each other.

"I missed you last week," Joe says.

"Dad had to work early. It's getting hard to meet. There are changes in the factory. Dad may be transferred soon."

"To where?"

"Detroit. We may have to move."

"I wish we were older. I hate having to hide us. I love you, Larry."

"I love you, Joe. Could you move to Detroit?"

"As a minor. We're only fourteen."

"When will you tell your parents?"

"Not until I'm legally an adult. I know better. What about you?"

"Dad will disown me. Orthodox Jews don't like gays. We have to keep this secret."

"Maybe your dad won't go to Detroit. We can still be together until we're eighteen. Then we'll get married."

Joe kisses Larry.

…

Arthur is eighteen and Joe is sixteen. It is the summer between high school and college. Arthur has been accepted by Northwestern law school. Jack is delighted he doesn't have to pay tuition. Joe comes in, goes upstairs and closes the door to his room. Arthur comes home. Jack goes to him.

"Hey, Dad."

"Arthur, do me a favor. I just saw Joe. There's something wrong. He looks like he lost his best friend. Find out what's wrong."

Arthur goes up the stairs and knocks on his door.

"Go away."

"Joe, it's me. Can I come in?"

"Do I have a choice?

"No."

"Come in."

He does. Joe is lying on the bed looking at a computer book. Arthur sits on the bed.

"What's up, bro?"

"Nothing."

"You look like you lost your best friend. Call up Larry."

"Larry is gone. His father was transferred to Detroit. They left this morning."

"Is Larry your only friend?"

"My only best friend. I'm not like you. I'm not popular."

"Want to talk about it?"

"Not really."

"Larry meant that much?"

"He was everything to me."

"Joe, you're my best friend. And I know lots of people. You'll meet others."

"It's not easy for me to meet new people. I always feel like I don't belong."

"Ever wonder why?"

"Not really. I just thought it was normal for me."

"Joe, we have always been different. I have tried very hard to understand you. So have the folks. We haven't had much luck. What do you think is wrong?"

"I don't know. Sometimes my thoughts run together. I can't think straight. I get confused. If things are in the wrong place I get upset, for no reason."

"But today you have a reason, Larry. He'll call you. You can e-mail. You can go see him in Detroit. He's not far away, just a different place."

"I love him. He's my other brother."

"Even I could see that. Dad asked me to find out what's wrong. What do you want me to tell him?"

"Tell him I miss Larry very much. He knows what he meant to me."

"And what about your confusion?"

"I'll deal with it. I'll be fine, Art."

He gets off the bed and heads for the door.

"You know, if I didn't know any better, I would swear you're IN love with him."

Arthur leaves. Joe closes the book.

"I am, Arthur."

He lies back and closes his eyes.

…

Arthur is nineteen and Joe is seventeen. Jack is in the living room. He is looking over some papers. Joe comes in.

"Dad, you got a minute?"

"Yes, Joseph. What do you need?"

"It's not what I need. It's Arthur. He's in real trouble."

"Please sit down. Does it have to with the arrests two weeks ago?"

"Yes. He was right to save the girl and call the police."

"I know. What new happened?"

"The frat brothers want revenge. You know those dead rats at our doors. They didn't die there. They were put there. He showed me a shoebox from his closet full of death threats. He finds notes everywhere. If he hangs his coat, he finds a note in his pocket. He never sees who puts it there. He's really scared. Next week he starts a night class. It's not given during the day. He's afraid that is when they'll get him. They want him dead. What do we do?"

"Call the police and pick him up after class. Hopefully the frat brothers will give up," Jack says.

"What if they attack us instead? You and mom drive. What if they cut her break line? What if they do damage to the house? Think of Anna."

"They wouldn't hurt a baby."

"You don't know those guys. They think they're God. Saving Sherrie was a big mistake. I'm sure her father has people working on it. They can't be hurt. We can."

"But to kill Arthur? The police would know."

"It doesn't help Arthur if he's dead."

"When does his class start?"

"Monday and Thursday. It's from six to eight, Guttenberg building. It's the big one close to the parking lot."

"And we will be there. Tell him he'll be safe. He won't be alone. Anyone who tries to hurt him will have to go through me first," Jack says.

"And me. I'll go tell him."

"Joseph, will you talk to the police and tell them what you told me?"

"Call them, right now. I'm not going anywhere. I am not afraid."

…

Joe and Jack are waiting in the car.

"Should I pick him up?" Joe asks.

"Please. Take your phone. Call the police if you see any trouble. The campus police are on call."

Jack looks at his watch.

"It's almost eight. I'm going now."

Joe leaves the car and walks up to the building. Everything is silent. He sees some books on the ground and hears voices in the bushes. He walks over and sees Arthur's shoes.

"Arthur!" Joe yells.

Three men run away. Joe stands over Arthur's body still pointing a gun at him. He turns to see Joe.

"No, Joe. Don't do it. Haven't you done enough? Kill me. Kill the other brother too. I can identify you. He can't. Go ahead, shoot."

Joe points the gun at Joe. Jack shows up and calls for the campus police. Jack comes closer to Joe.

"Get it over with. I dare you. Are you a coward?"

Joe pulls the trigger and the gun jams. He drops the gun and it goes off and runs. Joe goes and pulls Arthur from the bushes. He puts his head on his lap. Blood runs into his hands and clothes. Jack goes up to him.

"Don't die, Arthur. Please don't die," Joe cries rocking him.

The sound of an ambulance is heard in the background.

…..

Jack and Joe are in the waiting room. Allison comes in. Jack rises and goes to her.

"Where is he, Jack?"

"In the ER. He's very badly hurt."

Joe sits quietly on a chair. His shirt is covered with blood. Allison goes to him.

"Your shirt, Joe?"

"It's his blood, Mom. I'm fine. I caught Joe about to shoot him. I made him turn the gun on me and dared him. He pulled the trigger and the gun jammed. He dropped it and it went off. Then he ran."

"You dared him?"

She slaps him across the face.

"We almost lost two sons today. What? Are you crazy?"

"I wanted to spare Arthur more pain and give time for the campus police."

"Did you see who the others were?"

"I only recognized Joe. I didn't know the other two."

Jack sits next to her.

"There's rib damage but is doctor is more interested in head damage. His brain is swelling up. He's on blood thinners and they put him in an induced coma."

"Will he make it?"

"We don't know. All we can do is pray."

Allison looks at Joe.

"I'm not sorry I hit you, Joe. I couldn't stand to lose you too. I love both you boys too much," Allison says.

She tries to hug him but he pushes her away.

"Mom, you'll get blood on you."

"I love you, Joey," she says kissing him.

…..

AFGHANISTAN

Arthur is twenty-one and Joe is nineteen. 1st Sgt. Robert Hawk Sr. is in a truck with other soldiers. He is not driving.

"Hello, Alpha, over."

"Over," the driver says.

"We have a patrol under attack five miles off base. Taliban has them cornered. Calling for assistance, over."

"Will do, over."

Sgt. Hawk looks out the window as the truck turns back.

"That hasn't happened in a while. The roads were clear," the driver says.

"Roads are never clear. We got enough ammo and men?" White Elk asks.

"More than enough."

"I see the truck," White Elk says grabbing a gun by his side.

The truck stops. White Elk and his men start shooting. A few more men are killed. A few run away. The first truck men empty and go to the attacked patrol. They start pulling out bodies. They put them on the road. White Elk goes in for the last man.

"Sgt. this one's breathing."

White Elk carries him out and puts him on the road. It is Joe.

"I know him. He sang with his brother last night. Hopkins, don't die on me. Please Creator, let him live."

He holds him as the ambulances arrive. He turns to another soldier.

"I know I just met him but I've seen him before. I just don't know when. I remember his eyes."

The EMT's put him in an ambulance and White Elk follows him.

….

Sgt. Hawk waits alone in the ER. Arthur and Sherrie come in. He rises.

"Are you Sgt. Hawk?" Arthur asks.

"I came with your brother."

"What happened to him?"

"The patrol he was on was ambushed by the Taliban. Out of six men he's the only one who survived. The doctor's with him now. He was shot multiple times. That's all I know."

The doctor comes in.

"Sgt. Hawk I have your information."

White Elk turns to him.

"Private Hopkins was shot twice, his abdomen and right leg. He's lost a lot of blood. He may not make it through surgery. He has a rare blood type and we don't have much in stock."

"What type is it?" White Elk asks.

"B positive."

"I'm B positive," White Elk says.

"So am I. I'm his brother," Arthur says.

"And I have O," Sherrie says.

"That's great. Could you all spare two pints? That should see him through surgery. We'll start him with what we have first."

"Show us the way," White Elk says.

…

The three are in chairs giving their first pints. White Elk is in deep thought.

"Why Joe? He's not army material," Arthur asks.

"He's more than you think, Mr. Hopkins. I came to the base to recruit him for a sniper team. He is the top marksman, along with being an interpreter. That makes him an excellent soldier. I never got to ask him. He had to go on patrol first. And that's what bothers me."

"What do you mean?" Arthur asks.

"I have to do the paperwork on the ambush and it doesn't make sense. That base has never been ambushed, until now. Your brother goes out and it is. I've been looking at this ambush as a whole. I should have seen it as parts. There were six men, with equal values. But only one with superior values, your brother. His skill with guns and language made him a threat to the Taliban. This wasn't an ambush. It was an assignation attempt."

"Why do you say that, Sgt. Hawk?"

"The policy of assigning patrols is very easy. Each soldier must go out once before their tour is over. It was your brother's turn. There was a spy working on the base. The man handling the gun range was an Arab national. Private Hopkins went there every day. That's why he became so good. He and his rifle were lovers. And that's what made him a threat."

"When we accounted for the Taliban soldiers, one was the man who ran the gun range. He was the spy sent to lead the ambush. I bet Private Hopkins recognized him and they shot each other. That's why it's very important your brother survives. He needs to tell ME if I'm right. That's what I intend to put in my report."

"Joe was the real target?" Arthur asks.

"I believe he was. The other five were just added collateral, only him. I hope he makes it. He's the only one who can prove my point. I have to write this down but the needle is in my writing arm. I'll try to remember."

"My writing is free. All I need is a pen and paper. Should we ask the nurse?" Arthur says.

"That would be very helpful. I will ask. I need to write this down while I still remember what I just said. Now, there's only one more thing that bothers me. And it involves you."

"Me?"

"When I first heard your name, I remembered it. Over ten years ago, I meet a child with your name. I can't remember the face. I do remember he had a younger brother. All I know is he was very shy and quiet. I was the only one who got him out of his shell. Does that sound familiar to you?"

"Not really. I can't remember ten years ago. How did you help the boy?"

"I taught him how to draw a cactus and how they could be milked. Does that help?"

"Unless you told me, no. I don't remember a thing about cactus. I'm ready to take dictation."

"I'll call the nurse," White Elk says.

….

Arthur is twenty-two and Joe is twenty. Larry is dead. He was killed in a robbery. Arthur's two sons are born the same night. The lord giveth and the lord taketh. The family is at the funeral home. Joe sits alone in a meeting room. He is drinking coffee. Arthur comes in, pauses and then sits by him. He touches the broken nose he gave him.

"I really broke your nose. I'm sorry," Arthur says.

"You're forgiven. You lost your temper."

"How are you feeling?"

"Lousy. What else is new? My husband is dead. Life sucks."

"Eric did a good job getting him ready. His father disowned him."

"Being queer is not a Jewish thing. Or a Catholic one. Its how you feel about me."

"I never called you queer, just different."

"The only difference is where you put your penis."

"It's more than that, Joe."

"Then what is more?"

"Who you chose to love. It's not conventional."

"You can say that again."

"Joe, I feel for you. You really loved Larry. We all did, when we got to know him. I remember his silly laugh. He was a happy man. You gave him the love he needed."

"He gave me the love I needed."

"Did you feel unloved? When?"

"When I was growing up. I felt alone and out of place. I wasn't like the boys my age."

"You think it was medical? Were you born that way?"

"Maybe. I'm not retarded. I didn't know what else it could be."

"Maybe the folks should have taken you to a doctor."

"Too late. I'm an adult. There's nothing a doctor could do or say. I'm too old to change."

"I think maybe it was medical. Other people come out and have no problems. They accept what they are and they're happy. I'll have to see how my boys grow up."

"Congratulations on becoming a dad. You're a full adult now. They have your facial features. I don't know how you'll tell them apart. Be prepared for them to play tricks on you."

"Like we would play tricks on the folks?"

"But we were not twins."

"What are your plans now?"

"I don't know."

"You're not still suicidal, are you?"

"What if I am?"

"Promise me, if you feel that way again, you'll call us before you do anything. We all love you. We don't want you to leave."

"What if I left town instead?"

"As long as you leave alive. That's all we ask. Where would you go?"

"Nowhere sounds good. Some place small where I could disappear."

"You're disappearing now. I can feel it. We always would feel each other's physical pain. One would sneeze and the other would bless them. You scare me, Joe. I fear, if you disappear this time, you'll never come back and I'll lose you forever. We're so far apart now. I don't know where you are anymore."

"That makes two of us. I don't know where I am either. I just want to disappear forever."

Arthur takes Joe's hand.

"I love you, Joe. And please don't say, "Same here, bro". I hate when you do that."

"I love you too, Art. I remember holding you when you were beat up. I begged you not to die."

"And I begged you when you were ambushed. The three of us wanted you to live."

"Three?"

"Sgt. Hawk. We gave six pints of blood that day."

"And you gave me a limp."

"I gave you back your leg. That was more important. I know you only saw him three times. Did he look familiar to you? He told me he thinks he and his father came to the house when we were young. I don't remember him. He said he showed you how to draw a cactus and how to milk them. Do you remember that?"

"No. It's a strange thing to remember. Why were they at the house?"

"I forgot the reason. Mom met them somewhere. He's old enough to have been there."

"I didn't remember him. I saw him on base. He was following me. It was creepy."

"He wanted to recruit you to be one of his snipers. You were the best shot on the base. He was going to ask you to join the day you were attacked."

"I still don't remember him."

"I don't either. It was so long ago. Joe, please take care of you from now on. If you need help, we're here. I promise I won't break your nose again."

"What if I did leave and asked you not to find me? Would you do as I asked?"

"I guess so. Why don't you want me to find you?"

"Because right now I don't want to be found. I do want to leave. I want to take Larry's car and just keep driving until I find that place where I can disappear."

"If you find that place, just tell us you're okay. That's all we ask."

Arthur gets up and starts to leave.

"Arthur?"

He turns to Joe.

"Thanks for understanding. I don't know when or where I will go. I'll let you know I'm still alive."

Arthur walks out.

"Or maybe not."

…

NOWHERE, ARIZONA

There is a small bar called Tom's. Tom is showing Joe around behind the bar. Joe has legally changed him name to Noel Elroy Jackson. His hair is long and wild. His beard is uneven. He looks like a combination caveman and lumberjack. Two Indians enter, Tom and Robert Hawk. Robert Hawk now has long hair. They walk to the counter.

"Hey guys," Tom says.

"Hi, Tom. Got a couple of cold beers for two thirsty people?" White Elk asks.

"Coming right up."

White Elk sees Noel.

"Who's the caveman?" White Elk asks.

Tom comes from behind the bar and pulls the two men aside.

"He's my new bartender and garbage man. I just hired hm."

"You hired a caveman?" White Elk asks.

"I felt sorry for him. He drove into town. He seems lost. I think he needs a place to rest. He's not dangerous, just very sad. You want to meet him?"

"I'll meet Fred Flintstone," White Elk says.

The three walk up to the bar.

"Noel, these are some friends I'd like you to meet. This is Thomas and Robert Hawk. They live at Tohono, the Rez a few miles away. Guys, this is Noel Jackson my new bartender."

Noel shakes their hands. White Elk looks at him. He looks under the wild hair and recognizes the eyes.

"Tom, could we talk for a minute," White Elk asks.

The two walk away.

"His name isn't Jackson. It's Hopkins. I recognize him. We were on the same base together oversees."

"You're right. He showed me his military ID. He also said he legally changed his name."

"Did he say why? Did he break any laws?"

'I don't think so. He just a poor man who's lost."

"Does he have a bad limp?"

"It's pretty deep. Should I be worried?"

"No, just keep an eye on him. The man I knew before wasn't dangerous. I wonder what made him so sad. Do me a favor? Don't tell him I know him. I'll check the guy for you. I'll pretend we never met."

"Okay, Bob."

The two walk back. Noel has the two beers on the counter. Tom and Bob sit on the counter. Tom leaves the bar. Noel wipes the counter.

"Hot day today," Noel says.

"You can say that again. Where are you from, Noel?"

"Originally, Chicago, born and raised there."

"I was there once years ago. I can't remember why," White Elk says.

"I do, son. We were bonding."

"If you say so, Dad. His name also Tom, but he goes by Eagle Hawk. My name is Bob but friends me Elk. We live at Tohono Rez next to Why."

"You have strange names out here; Nowhere, Nothing and Why. Sounds like a comedy routine."

"Yes, it does. Chicago is an Indian word. It means smelly union. Apparently it was once a marshland and it did stink," White Elk says.

"That's right. You know your history. You know they reversed the flow of the Chicago River."

"I didn't know that. How long are you staying?"

"I don't know. I just got into my car and started driving. I needed to rest. This little town seemed perfect."

"It's a good place to hide."

"You can say that."

"Are you hiding?"

"Only from life. It got to be too much."

"Got any family?"

"Parents, a brother and kid sister. My brother is a rock star. His name is Arthur. Have you heard "And I Won"?

"I don't think I have. Is it new?"

"It's been out for a year."

"You married?"

"Not anymore. My husband is dead. He was killed."

"Sorry to hear that. I'm married with five children."

"You've been busy."

"I'm in between Army tours. I'm a vet. So is my Dad. He served in Germany. I did in Afghanistan. I've been out for almost two years. Came here, grew my hair, and became White Elk. Only I'm not hiding. I just came home. I'm a carpenter. I make wooden furniture. Some of my stuff is in Phoenix. I love working with wood."

"What have you made?"

"The tables here. These aren't store bought. Look at the rings. It's mostly a few trees."

"They look strong."

"They are."

White Elk puts out a few bills on the counter. The two men rise.

"Thanks for the beers. Dad, let's pick up some lunch and go home. See you later, Noel."

The two walk to the door.

"Why were you interrogating him?" Tom asks.

"I know him. Remember the ambush I told you about in my last tour? I pulled one man out alive. His name is now Jackson. His real name is Joseph Hopkins. Somewhere underneath all that hair and beard is the face of an angel. I'll find out why he's here, real soon."

….

White Elk is driving by himself. He sees a car by the road. A man sits, Indian style, on the hood. It is Noel. White Elk drives up, gets out of the car and walks over to him.

"A'ho," White Elk says.

"I am right. That's the Indian word for hello."

"Yes, car trouble?"

"No, I just stopped to get some air. I've never seen such free space"

"This is a dead valley. Nothing is here. The Creator is all around us."

"Who?"

"You must be Christian."

"Catholic."

"I believe in the Creator. I'm a heathen in your words. Tell me about yourself."

"Not much to tell."

"You mentioned the word husband when we met. Are you gay?"

"I was. I don't know what I am anymore. I guess I still am. I'm a vet too. We served in the same country. I used to be a good shot. I still am."

"How did you handle the language difference?"

"I learned Arabic."

"I was born in West Germany. I speak fluent German. Two languages we won't need here. I followed your advice. I looked up "And I Won". I saw your brother overseas. He did a concert at a base I was visiting. He's pretty good. So was his younger brother. Both good singers. I think I know who you are, Mr. Jackson. Or should I say Joseph Hopkins. What are you hiding from, Joe?"

"I told you, life. Please call me Noel. Joe is dead to me. He died with my husband."

"Okay, Noel. Then call me Elk. I didn't come here to die. I came here to live. I have to go. Enjoy your free space."

White Elk drives off. Noel keeps sitting on his car.

…..

Noel enters a barber shop in Nothing. The barber is free.

"Hello."

"Hi. I'd like a cut and shave," Noel says.

"Have a seat. How short?"

Noel pulls out a picture from his wallet.

"Like this."

"That's a major job. You work at Tom's bar. I saw you there a few weeks back. Why the change?"

"I'm getting married."

"Congratulations. Who's the lucky girl?"

"The boss's daughter."

"Angie, pretty girl. Tom used to bring her here for her haircuts. I saw her grow up. You're a lucky man. She works hard. She works the diner and motel. She and Tom work very hard. At least with you Tom can finally relax. He's not getting any younger."

"I knew his wife, almost pure Apache. She was beautiful. It's a shame she died so young. It's good Angie had her mother for half her life. Motherhood is hard here. Indigenous women around here die early."

"How come?'

"Some disappear. Their bodies are found later. Of course, most of them are prostitutes. The rest are young girls. I see them hitching every day. The roads are open. Sometimes the people who drive them are not very nice to women."

"I see them too. I don't pick them up. Tom is lucky. Angie stays close to home."

"She's much safer then."

"Not really. A week ago a tenant at the motel tried to rape her. I was in my room when I heard loud noise from next door. She pushed a lamp to the floor. I and my father and brother broke in and saved her. Then I proceeded to smash his face in. My hand swelled up. It took a week to come down."

"I think I heard about that. You're quite a fighter."

"I fight for the people I love. "

"Did you put him in the hospital?"

"I sure did. I'm an Army vet. I know how to fight. Don't get me mad with a gun. I don't show mercy. Ask the Taliban."

"Angie is a lucky woman. She has two men to protect her. You know your hair is thinning in back."

"I take after my father."

"You can transplant some. Would you like me to bag what I get? I know a few places in Phoenix."

"Not yet."

"Hair's done. What do you think?"

"She won't recognize me."

"Now to the hard part, your beard. Just lay back and take a nap."

….

Noel stands in front of a small church. He is clean shaven and has short hair. He takes a deep breath.

"Here goes nothing," he says entering.

He sees a priest with Tom and Angie. They turn, see him and he waves. The three look confused. He walks towards them.

"Sorry, I'm late. I had a prior appointment," he says pointing at his head.

"We didn't recognize you," Tom says.

"I didn't recognize myself."

He looks at Angie who smiles.

"She's smiling. Does she like the change?"

"Yes, son, she likes it. And so do I," Tom says.

"That makes three of us. Now let's get you married," the Priest says.

…

Arthur is twenty-three. Noel is twenty-one. They are sitting separate at the Grammy's. Angie is very pregnant. Noel is with Angie. Arthur is with Jack and Sherrie. Both brothers are anxious.

"You look terrified, son," Jack says.

"I am. This is my first time here."

"And Joseph. I think I see him seated a few rows before us," Jack says.

"He's with a woman," Arthur says.

"A very pregnant one. I saw them walk by. I think it's Angie. I wonder if the baby is his," Jack asks.

"We'll find out. She's coming here," Arthur says.

She goes up to the three with a note and gives Arthur the note.

"What does it say?"

"He voted for me. Angie, is the baby his," Arthur asks.

She nods and shows her left hand. It has a ring.

"Tell me I voted for him too," Arthur says.

She nods, goes back and sits next to Noel. The rest is in sign.

"He voted for you too."

"How did he look?"

"Scared."

"We both are. We have always been rivals. Now we really are."

…

The show goes on. Elvira announces Noel as the newest Entertainer of the Year. Both brothers are tied for Best Song and Arthur gets Album of the Year. They meet in the lobby afterwards.

"Congrats, Joe."

"You too."

"You're not so shy anymore," Arthur says.

"Not if I'm with my guitar. I'm glad you taught me."

"You surprised us with the baby."

"He surprised us and there's only one, not two. We'll call him Daniel."

"Nice name. Angie was proud to show her left hand. She looks happy."

"We both are."

"Let's kill the chit chat. Give me a hug," Arthur says.

They do.

"We're going to celebrate. Please join us."

"Only because Dad is with you. We have an early start tomorrow. We drove. Los Angeles is far from Nowhere. She needs the rest."

"Understood, bro."

Noel looks at Jack.

"Glad to see you, Dad."

"Glad to see you again. This time we won't see you rearrange a face."

"He deserved it. I would do it again."

"Hopefully not tonight," Jack says hugging Noel.

….

From this point the rivalry is temporarily off. Their meetings are few. That is until a man named Thomas Hawk Jr. comes to Nowhere and Noel's nightmare begins. Noel comes home from a Valentine's Day dance he was the Disc Jockey. Angie and Noel are getting ready for bed. He is silent. They are getting ready for bed.

"Something wrong, Noel? You've been quiet since we left the dance."

"Nothing important. I can deal with it."

"Since when does nothing make you silent? Spit it out, Jackson."

"It was at the dance. I stepped out for a few minutes for some air. Tom Jr. followed me."

"My cousin Tom?"

"He made advances towards me. I told him I wasn't interested with men now. I have a wife and children. It got ugly. He wouldn't take no for an answer. He tried to force his intentions. I stopped him and told him to leave me alone."

"Oh my God. You have to tell Elk this. That's his son."

"I can take care of this. Elk need not get involved. I'm a big boy."

"Then I'll talk to him AND Tom. This won't happen again."

"It won't Angie. I will stop it by myself. Let's get to bed. I'm tired."

He pulls the sheet and gets in.

"This isn't over, Noel"

"That's what Tom said."

"If Elk doesn't stop it, I will."

….

Noel drives to the old school ruins and gets out of his car. He starts walking to the open desert surrounding the damaged school. He checks out his landmarks and goes to where the map leads and finds nothing. Tom sees him and comes closer as Noel sits on a boulder and thinks. The sun is above them and reflects a light. He walks over, clears off the sand and finds a metal latch door. He tries to open it but it is rusted shut. After several attempts he opens it. All he sees is darkness.

"What is that smell?"

He takes out his flashlight and shines it inside. Tom comes up behind him. He looks up. Tom tries to throw him in and the men fight. Tom pulls out a rag with chloroform and puts it on his mouth. It takes a few minutes until Noel is unconscious. Tom throws him in, with his tools, but takes the car keys before and closes the entrance and the latch. He pulls two big boulders over the entrance. The entrance can't be seen. He walks away and goes to Noel's car.

…..

Tom is looking at the clock on the wall. He is late for work. Angie comes into the bar.

"You called me, Dad?"

"Yes, where is Noel? He's late. It's not like him. Did he come home?"

"I haven't seen him. He was going to the old school grounds. That was hours ago."

"I'll call him again. Maybe he forgot the time," Tom says using his phone.

Angie waits and Tom hangs up.

"It went to voicemail. Maybe we should call the Sheriff? He could send some deputies to look for him. It's late, desert time. Anything could happen?" Tom says.

"You mean declare him missing? We can't do that for one day."

"His deputies could still look. Maybe he had car trouble and his phone doesn't work where he is. I'll call the Sheriff," Tom says grabbing his phone.

"Sheriff please?...John, it's Tom at Tom's. I need your help. Noel didn't come to work. He's very late. Could you have your guys look for him just in case he's had car trouble and his phone won't work?...I tried to call him. All I get is voicemail. It's getting darker…He was last seen at the old school grounds. That was hours ago…Thanks, John. Call me if you find something. I don't want to report him missing yet."

Tom hangs up.

"He'll tell his guys. It won't take long. I can't imagine what happened to him."

"Maybe I should ask Cousin Tom?"

"Tom Jr. Why?"

"Tom made a sexual advance to him after the dance. He refused. He came home disturbed. I got it out of him but he said he could take care of it."

"Why would Tom do that?"

"He's come out and is fixated on Noel. Noel is bi-sexual."

"We're starting to make stuff up. Let's stop. Any second now he'll come through the door. It's probably car trouble," Tom says.

"Give me your phone, Dad."

He does and she dials.

"Uncle Bob, its Angie. We need to talk. Noel doesn't want you to know. I'm going behind his back. Where's Tom Jr.?" Angie asks.

….

One night has passed. Noel hasn't returned. Two men enter the bar. They are Joe Ostrowski and Adam Beach the actor. They go to the counter. Tom goes to them.

"What can I get you?"

"Information. We're looking for Noel Jackson. He's waiting for us."

"You're out of luck. He isn't here. He never reported for work last night. I'm his father-in-law and as of a few hours ago he's been declared missing. Who are you?"

"I'm Adam Beach and this is my financial partner Joe Ostrowski. I met the Hopkins brothers at the Grammy's. We agreed to meet. He was going to help us scout out movie locations."

"You're out of luck. You want Noel. You'll have to find him. The Sheriff's department is looking for him too."

"You look worried."

"I've very worried. He's never done this before. His wife is worried. Where are you guys staying?"

"The motel, room eight. Joe, let's do our own scouting."

"If you see him, tell him to come home," Tom says.

The two men leave. Tom looks at the wedding picture by the bottles.

"Where the hell are you, Noel?"

…

Angie comes into the bar. Tom stands by himself.

"Any news?"

"No, dear. Two men came looking for him. He promised to be their tour guide. They gave up and went by themselves. Should I call the family?"

"I would."

"It's only been one day. No need to get them upset for nothing."

"We'll call them anyway. If there is something wrong they should be here."

"Okay, Angie, give me Arthur's phone number."

…

One more night has passed, no Noel. Tom stands quietly behind the bar. He has a few customers but isn't paying attention to them. Angie comes in and goes to the counter.

"Arthur called me. He and his parents are on their way from the airport. Their rooms are waiting for them at the house. Dad, did you hear what I said?"

"No, I'm too distracted. The Sheriff called. They found his car. It's far away from the school grounds. It makes no sense. Something isn't right. He's in trouble. I can feel it,"

"And I bet Cousin Tom had something to do with it."

"Isn't he at the school searching?"

"So, he says. Dad he's lying. I can feel it but I can't prove it. I only have Noel's word of the advance."

"Where did Arthur call from?"

"He's halfway from Phoenix. He should have them here soon."

…

An hour passes. Angie sits at the counter drinking a soda. Arthur and his parents come in with their luggage. They go to the counter. Allison hugs Angie.

"We're here now. How do you feel?" Allison asks.

"Scared. No one has seen him for two days. He could be lying dead somewhere. The desert is big. Maybe he fell into something and can't get out. There are lots of old mines around the school grounds," Angie says.

"Have they tried those?" Jack asks.

"The dogs found nothing. It's like he disappeared off the earth," Tom says.

"I'll bring you to the house. Follow me," Angie says.

…

The four come back and go by the counter.

"Any news?" Arthur asks.

"The deputies haven't found anything. Maybe he's dead," Tom says.

"He's not dead. I would know. He and I have this strange physical bond. If one is hurt the other will feel the same," Arthur says.

"What do you feel?" Tom asks.

"I feel very cold. And my throat is parched. Wherever he is there is no water."

"Are there old mines around there?" Jack asks.

"Plenty. Most of the desert has been dug up and recovered. If we had an earthquake the whole valley would be a sinkhole," Tom says.

"So, what do we do?" Allison asks.

"We won't know until we hear the word."

"How long can someone last without water?" Arthur asks.

"I've heard three days. But Noel knows how to milk a cactus for milk."

"He has to be underneath somewhere where there is no cactus," Arthur says.

Joe and Adam enter the bar and go to the counter. Arthur recognizes Adam.

"Adam? What are you doing here?"

"Looking for your brother. He was to be our tour guide. We got here and he's disappeared. We did our own locations and never saw him," Adam says.

"Who is your friend?" Arthur asks.

"My business partner, Joe. Are these your parents?"

"Jack and Allison Hopkins. Mom and Dad this is Adam. Joe and I met him at the Grammy's."

They four shake hands.

"The only one missing is Noel," Tom says.

"Have you checked the old mines?" Joe asks.

"There are too many. There's even more we don't know yet. You jump on the desert floor and you could fall into a mine. There's plenty of people searching. Can I get you two something?"

"We're going back to our motel room to wash up. The desert is in our hair," Joe says.

"Good luck. I hope he comes home soon. If he doesn't, maybe we could help. I brought a large movie van with supplies you may need. We have large flashlights and cables. We've used cables for rope before."

"We'll keep that in mind. Thanks." Arthur says.

The two men leave.

"Who's the guy?" Jack asks.

"Some movie star. He works in Canada," Arthur says.

"Is the diner still open?" Allison asks.

"For just an hour. You better hurry if you're hungry," Tom says.

Jack and Allison leave. Arthur turns to Angie.

"How you doing, Angie?"

"Scared. I wish he was home. Danny keep asking about him. I don't know what to tell him. He keeps saying "Where's Daddy?"

"Don't worry. Someone will find him."

Arthur hugs Angie and rubs her back.

"He'll be home soon, "Arthur says.

…

Arthur sits alone on the Greyhound bus bench. He looks down and twiddles his thumbs. Jack walks up to him and sits by him.

"Waiting for a bus?" Jack asks.

"I had to get some air. I couldn't sleep."

"That makes two of us. How do you feel son?"

"I feel so helpless. I wish I could do more," Arthur says.

"You can't. It's pitch black out there. You might fall into a mine shaft."

"How can you be so calm? Aren't you angry?"

"I'm very angry. But I'm British. This is how we Brits act when we're upset."

"The Beatles didn't. I saw A Hard Day's Night."

"They were thirty years younger than me."

"Did Angie tell you about Tom's advances to Joe?"

"She did. If he's behind this, he'll regret meeting Jack Hopkins. I may be old but I can still fight."

"Not if I get him first."

Joe walks up to them.

"What is this, a convention? Jack asks.

"I couldn't sleep."

"Join the club. Where's your movie actor friend?"

"Snoring. He could sleep through an earthquake. I've always been a light sleeper. Any news?"

"The same. The search will continue at first light. It's too dark to see. What brings you out?" Arthur asks.

"Adam's snoring. I'm glad I'm not his wife. But there's a different reason. I wanted to hear the wind. Maybe it will send me clues. You see, my grandmother was very psychic. She gave it to me. I've used it. I just don't brag about it. And Adam keeps it secret. He's a good friend."

"What do you feel?" Jack asks.

"I feel the cold and my throat is parched. I can't drink enough water. There are a few more things. I see darkness. Wherever your son is, there is no light. Its pitch black."

"How can you sense this?" Arthur asks.

"Right now, I'm feeling very congested. It's like hundreds of phone calls, coming at the same time. I can't pick up ONE special conversation. There's too much in the wind."

"Yet you said it's dark," Arthur asks.

"I'm seeing through his eyes. You feel the cold. I can see what he's seeing."

"What does he see?" Jack asks.

"A lot of small sets of eyes. He's not alone. I see four small feet and a long tail, and whiskers. It's some type of rodent, an oversized rat. There's more than one. They're all over. He is very tired. He can't sleep because he's afraid they'll bite him. He's sleep deprived. If he's found in time he will need many tetanus shots. The human body can only take so much. He doesn't have much time left."

"Does he have injuries?" Jack asks.

"Nothing is broke. He can stand and walk but he's so tired and thirsty. There's no water."

"Don't tell Angie that. She's very worried," Jack says.

"I'm not born yesterday, Jack. I know better. Maybe he is in a mine shaft?"

"Or maybe he was put there," Arthur says.

"By what?"

"Who? Joe's friend, Elk, has a grown son named Tom Hawk Jr."

"We met him by the school grounds. He was leading the search."

"Like hell he is. I know Tom is behind this. He put Joe somewhere he can't be found. He's pretending to help. Tom made a sexual pass at Joe. Joe is bi-sexual, but he's married to Angie now and they have kids. Joe refused him and he didn't take it so well. And a few days later Joe disappears? That's one strong coincidence," Arthur says.

"Does the Sheriff know this?" Joe asks.

"He will tomorrow when Dad and I tell him. He told Angie when it happened. She and Tom are first cousins by blood," Arthur says.

"Wow, that changes things. Why doesn't the Sheriff question him?" Joe asks.

"He doesn't know yet. Elk is a good guy. Tom is in the army. He's a vet, a gay vet. If only I could see him, I'd make him talk," Arthur says.

"And I'd help you son. No one hurts my children and gets away with it. Can you feel anything else, Joe?"

"He's scared. He wants to go home. There's nothing more he can do."

"With no food and water?" Arthur says.

"He has food, plenty. He's been digesting his neighbors. That much I can feel. It makes him feel sick. He has no choice if he wants to survive. Now you see why I say it's tetanus shots."

"Oh, God. My poor son," Jack says.

Arthur rises and faces the desert.

"Joe, where the hell are you?" Arthur cries.

"He can't hear you. All he hears is the patter of the rat's feet and their screams when he kills one," Joe says.

"I hope what you're saying is wrong," Jack says.

"So do I, Jack. But it doesn't feel wrong. That comes in very strong. What time is it?" Joe asks.

"Almost eleven. It's' time we go back to Angie. Tomorrow will be an early day," Jack says.

"And the third day, alone for Joe," Arthur says.

"Noel can't feel time in the dark. It's just a continuous nightmare. He needs help real soon or when and if he's found, he'll be dead," Joe says.

Arthur and Jack look at Joe and rise.

"Let's go in, son. Coming Joe?"

"I want to spend more time out here. Maybe something more will come to me. If I go to bed all I get is Adam's snoring."

"See you tomorrow," Jack says.

The two walk back into town. Joe goes to the side of the road, picks up some sand and lets it sift through his fingers.

"You need to tell me more, Joe. Speak to me."

…

Joe, Adam, Jack, Allison, Angie, Arthur and Tom are in the bar. Everyone but Tom is eating breakfast. Joe yawns.

"How long did you stay out, Joe?" Arthur asks.

"One more hour."

"Anything come to you?"

"Just what I already told you."

"We're right back where we started," Jack says.

"Tom, could you answer a question? Arthur and I saw a small colony of big rats on our walk from the bench. How big do their bodies get?" Jack asks.

"Big enough to ride. All you need is a saddle. Joking aside, I have seen them as big as a foot."

"When they have family, how big are the litters?" Arthur asks.

"Isn't there a rat problem in town?" Jack asks.

"Those rats are everywhere, not just here."

"Do they bite?" Jack asks.

"Everything bites in the desert at night; snakes, scorpions, rats, vultures and wolves. Take your pick. Tourists always want to camp overnight in the desert. I tell them to only do it in a car. Even that doesn't help. Snakes and scorpions have no trouble getting in."

"Do they stop growing at one foot?" Arthur asks.

"If left alone, they keep growing. Chicago doesn't have any?" Tom asks.

"They have plenty I saw a dead one the size of a cat. It was the long tail that gave it away," Jack says.

"I saw that. It was by the park. That was a rat."

"Sure was, son."

"I'll be back," Angie says walking to the bathroom.

"She's gone. What's with the questions?" Tom asks.

"We were thinking. If Joe is enclosed and there are rats, will they bite him?" Jack asks.

"What a thought. Only if there is no other food source. They eat anything and anyone," Tom says.

"Would they be in mine shafts?" Arthur says.

"It's a good place for a nest. It's better to get mom before they're born. If I see a pregnant rat, I use my girlfriend and kill it. I'm a damn good shot," Tom says pulling out a rifle.

"Good form of pest control," Arthur says.

"The best," Tom says putting it back.

Angie comes back.

"She's coming. Change the subject," Tom says.

"Still talking about rats," Angie asks.

"We exhausted the subject," Arthur says.

"Can they get into the house," Jack asks.

"Not really. The ones in town are safe, unless Dad raises his gun. But outside the town limits, they're in danger from vultures. They have good night eyes and love fresh meat, and prefer it to dead," Angie says.

Breakfast is finished. Angie collects the plates as the Sheriff comes in with a rolled up map under his arm. He approaches the group at the counter.

"Any news, John?" Tom asks.

"None. I'm starting the search over. Meet me at a table," John says, opening the map on the table.

The group stands by him.

"I've divided the valley into equal quadrants. Maybe that will help. I've got my deputies searching the top. Tom and his Rez volunteers did this side one. It looks clean. Just there are others to be done," John says.

"I would redo Tom's quadrant," Arthur says.

"Why? He had lots of volunteers. They found nothing."

"He made sure they didn't. That's why he chose that area. He knows it TOO well," Arthur says.

"You don't trust Tom? He's army and Elk's son," John says.

"Listen to him, John. Don't trust him," Angie says.

"Something I should know?"

"Tom mad a pass at Noel. He refused. A few days later, Noel is gone?" Angie says.

"Quite a coincidence, Sheriff?" Arthur says.

"Ever hear the phrase, if you want to hide something, put it in plain sight," Jack says.

"Only a criminal knows how to hide a crime. Don't they sometimes pretend to help police?" Arthur asks.

"He needs to be questioned," Angie says.

"Do you suspect him, Angie?" John asks.

"I'm beginning too. He's living with Uncle Bob."

"I can't do anything without a search warrant. Are you guys sure?"

"Noel told me what happened and he was upset. He said he could handle it himself," Angie says.

"Tom makes a pass and is refused. A few days later he disappears. What do you think? Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned," Arthur says.

"Or a man. Alright, I'll put my guys on Tom's quadrant immediately,"

He rolls up the map and puts it under his arm.

"I'll be back with a search warrant," John says leaving.

"What do we do, Dad? We don't know the desert. No one here knows where we can look," Arthur says.

"You don't look, son. Let the deputies look. All we can do is wait," Allison says.

"Mom, sometimes new eyes help," Arthur says.

"Our eyes are tired, son. When they find something, we'll know. At least Tom will be questioned now," Allison asks.

"Are you sure, luv?" Jack asks.

"Like someone said, none of us knows the desert. We'd only be in the way."

"Okay, Mom. I just feel so defenseless. I wish I could help."

"Arthur, do you still feel him alive?" Allison asks.

"Yes, but not for long."

"Maybe it's time we all pray," Jack says.

"Good idea, Jack. God's the only one who knows where he is."

…..

Noel is trying to sleep. He is exhausted from staying awake. He looks at the newest dead rat he just killed.

"I can't. I can't do it anymore. I'd rather starve to death."

He pushes it aside and looks up.

"God, I know you want me eat him. You gave me food. But I can't stomach it anymore. Please give me the strength to go on as I am now."

He starts to cry. A small white orb starts growing. It gets to him and illuminates his position. The total darkness is gone. The rats go away from him. The light scares them. He starts to close his eyes.

"All I want is to sleep."

The orb gets brighter and the rats hide.

"Where is the light coming from?"

He looks into it and sees the bar group praying in a circle.

"Mom, Dad, Arthur? Can you see me?"

"I feel him, Dad. He can see us somehow. Tell him to rest," Arthur says.

"Get some sleep, Joseph. Don't be afraid to close your eyes," Jack says.

The images in the light disappear.

"Okay, Dad."

He puts his back pack as a pillow and lowers his head. In a few minutes, he is asleep. The rats don't go near the orb's light.

…..

Time passes. Noel wakes up and looks around. The orb still glows. He gets up and tries to walk but is so weak he collapses face down. He is near death. On top the latch is opened and voices are heard.

"What is that smell?"

"I know it. It's the smell of death and decay. There's more than one dead body down there."

"I'll move the van and get the cables."

"I'll bring the supplies in a blanket."

Noel does not hear any conversation. The cables come down. Joe, Adam, Arthur, Robbie and Lady come down. Joe and Adam shine the large flashlights. They see the bodies and the bones of the eaten rats.

"This is it, but where is he?"

Robbie bends down to talk to Lady.

"Lady, go find Noel."

She does and howls. They run over.

"Joe!"

Arthur goes and puts his head on his lap. Robbie gets upset. Joe knows what's going on.

"No, send him back. It's too early. You can do it."

Joe looks at Robbie. He puts his hand on Robbie's shoulder.

"Do it, Robbie. Don't be afraid. I can see what you see."

Arthur throws some water in Noel's face. He wakes up and sees Arthur's face.

"Arthur?"

"It's me. What happened? "

"Tom. We fought. He put a rag on my face. Everything went black. I woke up and I was trapped."

"Have some water," Arthur says giving him some.

He takes some and becomes unconscious again. The next thing he know he wakes up in a hospital bed attached to an IV. Arthur is sitting by his bed holding his hand. Noel opens his eyes and sees Arthur.

"Arthur?"

"Welcome back."

"Where am I?"

"You're in a hospital."

"What about Tom?"

"He's under arrest. You're safe again. How do you feel?"

"Very tired. I could sleep for days."

"You'll get plenty of rest here. The IV's are replacing your fluids. You'll feel better soon."

He leans down and kisses Noel's forehead.

"I'll get the doctor. Don't go anywhere. Get some sleep."

Arthur rises and starts to walk out.

"Arthur?"

He turns back.

"I just wanted to see your face again before I went to sleep," Noel says.

"Go for it, bro," Arthur says opening his arms.

"I love you, Art."

"I love you, Joe."

He walks out as Noel closes his eyes.

….

Arthur waits outside as the doctor examines him. The doctor comes out.

"How is he, Doc?"

"I would be lying if I said he was fine. He's not. His body has been through hell for four days. His skin is paper dry. It will take many days to hydrate. His food supply of rats has to be dealt with. I've ordered tetanus shots just in case. He's running a fever because his system is so dry. I've ordered anti-biotics. This could become pneumonia very fast"

"I had no idea. Will he recover?"

"Not overnight. I'll know as he's hydrates. For now, let him sleep. He needs the rest more. I hate to say it, but the rats kept him alive. You don't need to stay. He'll just be sleeping."

"I want to stay. I want to see him breathe. That means he's alive."

"As you wish, but don't stay past visiting hours. If he does wake up, keep conversation short. He needs to rest more."

The doctor leaves. Arthur enters the room. Noel is partially awake.

"What did the doc say?" Noel asks.

"You're in deep shit, bro. You need rest and lots of fluids. You may be here for a few days."

"Better here than the grave. Where are the folks?"

"They were very tired and went with Angie to sleep. I'm staying tonight. Angie and the folks will be here in the morning."

"I can't wait to see them."

"They want to see you."

The nurse comes in with three syringes.

"What's that nurse?" Arthur asks.

"His tetanus shots."

"Three?" Noel asks.

"Your rat diet was not the best for you. Could you help me, Mr. Hopkins? He needs to lie on his side so I can hit his cheeks."

"My ass?" Noel asks.

"That's right, sir. Now go on your side."

He does. The nurse gets the first shot.

"That's awful big, Nurse," Arthur says.

"They have to be. Three shots he'll be done."

She wipes with alcohol and gives him the first shot.

"Ouch! That hurt!" Noel says.

"These shots always do."

Noel gives Arthur a grimace. The nurse gets the next shot ready and gives it to him.

"OWWW!"

Arthur is fighting laughter.

"Be a big boy, Mr. Jackson. One more to go."

"Just get it over with," Noel says.

"I will. Your butt will be a little sore for a few days. There may be some swelling. Sitting may be hard. But you'll be rat free."

She starts the last shot and gives it to him.

"OW! Jesus, Mary and Joseph!" Noel cries.

Arthur starts laughing. He can't help it.

"That isn't funny, Art."

"You're right. It's hysterical. I'm sorry, bro."

"You can lie down now. I'm all done. All I need to do is refill your IV."

She takes out the empty bag and puts a new one.

"What's that little bag?" Arthur says.

"That's the anti-biotic. He's got enough to feed an elephant."

"If I see Tom again, I'll kill him," Noel says lying on his back again.

"Enjoy your stay. Don't stay past visiting hours?"

She leaves. Arthur finishes laughing.

"Enjoy your laugh?"

"I enjoy seeing you alive again. I was so afraid I would lose you."

"I lost half my ass."

"It's only temporary. Now close your eyes and get some rest. I'll be back tomorrow."

"What about tonight?"

"I'll be fine. You'll just be asleep."

Arthur sits down by the bed.

"How can I sleep with a sore ass?"

"I refuse to kiss it. Get over it. Close your eyes. Before long you'll be in la la land."

"I do feel tired."

"Good-night, Joe. Sleep tight. Don't let the bed bugs bite."

"They already did. Thanks for being here, Art."

"And I always will be with you, wherever you are."

He pats Noel's hand. Noel closes his eyes. In a few minutes he is asleep. Arthur just watches him sleep and smiles.

"I love you, Joe."

…..

It is the next morning. Noel wakes up. His parents are there watching him.

"Hey, Mom, Dad?"

"Hello, son. How do you feel?

"Tired. I had a hard time sleeping. I got three shots yesterday and they hurt."

"There are no marks on your arms," Allison says.

"It's not where you can see them?"

Jack smiles.

"Lean over, son. Let me see, "Jack says.

He does as Jack looks under the sheet. Allison and Angie look. They fight laughing.

"How bad is it?"

Jack clears his throat.

"If your butt was a map of the world, the shots look like Australia," Jack says.

"Bigger than that, Jack," Allison says.

"How big, Mom?"

"The size of North America."

"Lie down again," Jack says.

Noel does and sees the women fighting laughter. Jack has a big grin.

"Can it, guys. Those shots hurt."

"What were they?" Angie asks.

"Tetanus, too many rats."

"It's good to see you, son. You had us worried," Jack says.

"That makes two of us."

She takes Noel's hand.

"We all love you," Allison says.

He squeezes her hand and starts to show his true feelings.

"I was so scared, Mom. I thought I was going to die."

"You almost did. It was the pack of wolves that found you. It was a miracle. The teenage Indian boy was a wolf whisperer."

"You mean, Robbie. He has his own wolf. He calls her Lady. I'll have to thank him."

"You'll get your chance," Jack says.

Robbie walks in. He has Lady on a leash.

"Hi, Uncle Noel. Someone wanted to say hello."

Angie pulls up a chair and Lady sits on it. She offers his paw. Noel stops crying and starts laughing. He pets her face. She licks his hand.

"Thank you, Lady. Thank you and your pack. How did you get her in, Dad?'

"With great difficulty. The nurses were scared until she made friends with them."

Noel looks at Robbie.

"Thank you, Robbie. I don't know how you did it, but I'm glad you did. Lady let you put on a leash?"

"She's my dog."

"She's also wild. I think you better send her back home. We'll talk later."

Lady steps of the chair. Robbie walks her out.

"Wow. I bet that's a first. He looks at Angie who smiles. His parents walk away and she approaches the bed. She bends down and kisses him. The kiss is long. A tear runs down his cheek as they part.

"I was really scared, love. I kept thinking about you and the kids. How would you survive?"

"You always think about others before yourself. That's what I love about you. We knew you would be found."

She takes his hand.

"I love you," Angie says.

"And I'm crazy about you."

He kisses her again. Allison and Jack are choked up.

….

Mayor Arthur Hopkins is in his fifth floor office at City Hall. He is busy making phone calls and is in-between calls when Sherrie enters and sits down.

"You look like you lost your best friend. Something wrong?"

"You could say that. I just came from the doctor."

"What did he say about your stomach pains?"

"He gave me the results of the test. The cancer is back."

"I thought we beat it. That's what they said before."

"It's in my pancreas now. I have to start chemo and radiation again. I liked having my hair."

"Damn your hair! It's your life we should be worried about. When can we start?"

"Next week. We have to tell the kids."

"We'll do it tonight. Don't worry. We beat it before. We'll beat it again. Cancer will not win."

He stands and goes to her. She rises and he holds her as she cries.

…

It is that night. Arthur and Sherrie are in their living room with the four young adult children. They are sitting and Arthur and Sherrie stand.

"What's up, Dad?" Alex asks.

"Your mother and I have something to say. There's no way to say this except to say it. Her cancer is back."

"Oh no!" Helga cries.

"She's been having stomach pains. We didn't tell you when she had tests because we didn't want to worry you. It's in her pancreas this time," Arthur says.

The children are upset.

"It seems our little family can't get rid of it. It keeps coming back," Arthur says.

"Mom, when will you start therapy?" Larry asks.

"Next week."

"Us four will be with you, Mom," Eric says.

They all rise and hug her.

…..

Sherrie comes from therapy. She is very tired and sits down. Eric comes home.

"Hey, Mom."

"Hello, Eric."

"You okay?"

"I don't feel very well. I forgot what chemo does to you."

He sits by her.

"Can I get you something? Maybe a nap would help?"

"All I want is some fruit juice. My throat is dry."

She starts to stand and falls back to the chair.

"Mom, I'll get the juice. And then I'll help you upstairs."

He goes into the kitchen. She starts to fall asleep. He goes back to her.

"I'm taking you upstairs now. Then I'll get you the juice."

She stands and he starts to walk up the stairs. Larry comes in.

"Eric, is Mom okay?"

"She's just tired. I'm getting her to bed. Larry, bring up some fruit juice. She could use the vitamins."

Eric and Sherrie disappear up the stairs. Larry brings the juice. She is put into bed. Eric takes her shoes off and fluffs her pillows.

"My pain pills are in the drawer," Sherrie says.

Eric gets the pills and the drink from Larry. She takes her pill and gives back the bottle.

"Does it really hurt, Mom?" Larry asks.

"It doesn't tickle. Your dad will be home in a few hours. Send him up to me."

"Sure. Get some rest," Eric says tapping her hand.

The boys leave and stand outside the closed bedroom door. They look at each other.

"Mom didn't get so tired so soon before," Larry says.

"I'll check on her in an hour. She really needs rest," Eric says.

The boys go down the stairs. Time passes and Arthur walks in. He puts his briefcase on the table.

"Is Mom home?"

"She came home a few hours ago. She's really tired, Dad," Eric says.

"So soon? She just started chemo."

"This time won't be easy, Dad. She took a pain pill and went to sleep. I checked on her. She was gone," Eric says.

"I'll go upstairs. I may be there awhile. If the phone rings, take a message," Arthur says.

He goes to his bedroom and opens the door. She is asleep. He sits on the bed and caresses her hair. She slowly opens up her eyes.

"Hey, babe. Heard you had a bad day,"

"Therapy is pretty rough this time. James had to drive me home."

"Are you in pain?"

"I feel like my intestines are on fire."

He opens up the drawer and takes out the pain pills.

"What did you last take this?"

"About six. "

"I had to stay late. It's starting to snow. A big storm is coming."

"I came home at two."

He reads the label.

"It says take when needed. You need it. I'll get you some water and I'll get dinner ready."

"All I want is soup. My stomach is queasy."

"You need more that soup. First the water and I'll make you a full tray," he says leaving the room.

…

He goes downstairs.

"How is she, Dad?" Larry asks.

"She doesn't look good. Larry, make her a dinner tray. I'll bring it up. I need to see the weather."

He turns on the TV and sits on a chair. The weatherman stands beside a map.

"The snow is coming now. Right now it's coming from the Northwest. Skokie and Lincolnwood are getting hit badly. This particular storm started in the Rockies and has traveled several states. It has dropped at least two feet in each. It looks like we're next. If current conditions continue this may be one the biggest storms we've had in years. Be ready to shovel."

He looks at the boys.

"I'm going back to city hall. I have to make arrangements with streets and sanitation. This will be bad. Is the dinner tray ready?"

"Just finished. I'll bring it upstairs," Larry says.

"Thanks. Larry, bring me down four underwear's. I may not be home for a few days. Make sure your mom stays home until the storm stops and the roads are done. She's too weak to handle it. I'll call when I can."

Larry goes upstairs. Arthur goes back to his briefcase. Larry comes down.

"Here, Dad."

Arthur takes them and puts them in his briefcase and heads for the door.

"I'll be home as soon as I can. I have to keep this city running. Tell mom NOT to leave until I say. The cancer is not going anywhere."

He leaves. The boys look at the TV. The weatherman is still by the map.

"The snow just hit Evanston and the upper Northside. This will be a heavy snow. Don't over exert yourself. If there are seniors, please check on them. Make sure they have enough of their needs met."

"I'll go see if Grandpa needs anything. Be ready to shovel when the others get here. We'll take shifts," Larry says leaving.

Eric goes back upstairs. Sherrie is eating.

"Where's Dad?"

"He went back to work. We have a blizzard coming. He has work to do. He even took extra underwear just in case. He wants you to stay home until the snow stops," Eric says.

"It's a bitch being Mayor. Make sure the Grand's are okay. Don't forget."

"Larry is over there now."

"Dad will call when he can."

"Where are your other two siblings?"

"Probably trying to get home. We got here before it started."

"How bad is it?"

"Does the year 1967 ring a bell? That's what the weather guy said. We four will be doing a lot of shoveling. Do we have enough salt?"

"It's in the basement. Don't salt until it stops. You'll just be wasting it, Just shovel."

"Are you through with dinner?"

"You can take it. I'll go down with you. I want to see the news. I know Dad will be on it."

"He wanted you to rest, not watch TV."

"I won't tell if you won't," Sherrie says smiling.

"Okay, but do the stairs slow."

Larry takes the tray as she gets out of bed.

"I'll be down as soon as I put on my nightgown and robe."

"Call me. I'll help you down."

Larry leaves.

….

Larry is the kitchen when he sees Sherrie come down by herself. He goes to her.

"Mom, I told you to call me. Dad will kill me if you fell down."

"I didn't. Now let me get to the couch, young man. I want to see your father on TV. Get me an ice cream. I'm hungry for something cold and sweet."

She sits across from the TV. The news is still on. The storm preempted regular shows. Larry gives her the ice cream and sits next to her. He looks at the clock. It is getting late.

"I wonder where Alex and Helga are. They should be home by now," Larry says.

"I'm worried too."

"Alex was picking up Helga from school. Maybe the car is stuck in the snow," Sherrie says.

"If she's with Alex she'll be safe. Still, I wish they were here."

Larry looks out the window.

"The driveway looks messy. I'll clear it for the car."

He grabs his coat, a shovel and leaves. Sherrie looks at the TV. Eric comes in.

"Gramps is okay. They have enough food for a few weeks. Anna just came home. She left school four hours ago. The buses aren't running very well. Where's Larry?" Eric asks.

"He's doing the driveway. Alex and Helga haven't come home. Get a shovel and give him a hand. Alex will be very tired when he comes home," Sherrie says.

Eric does. She looks at the clock again and then back at the TV. A car drives up to the driveway. It is Alex and Helga. Larry and Eric have cleared the driveway in time. Alex opens up the garage door and goes in. He and Helga get out.

"Helga, you go inside. I'm going to shovel the sidewalk," Alex says.

She enters from the back and goes to the bottom of the stairs.

"Are you okay, Helga?"

"Yeah, Mom. Alex took to pushing out every stuck car on the way. He's always the gentleman. I need to get this coat off. I'll be back down."

Helga goes upstairs. Sherrie walks to the window to see Alex trying to clear the sidewalk. Helga comes back down. She is shivering.

"I got the chills. That was a long ride," Helga says shaking.

"Make a lot of hot chocolate. Put a shot of whiskey in it. That will warm you up. Make enough for your brothers. They'll need it," Sherrie says.

"Where's Dad?"

"City hall. He has to work and keep this city going. We won't see him for days," Sherrie says sitting in front of the TV.

Two anchors are on TV.

"We just got some news. A press conference is about to be held at City Hall. We switch now."

Helga starts making her drink and watches from the dining room. Arthur comes in with a lot of people. He goes to a microphone.

"Evening. Hello everyone. I won't say it's good. It isn't. It took me two hours to get here and I live in Wrigleyville. I have just spent an hour meeting with my disaster team. Before I introduce them, I would like to say a few words."

Helga sits next to Sherrie with her milk chocolate.

"It's a bitch out there. Nature is really hitting us. I made a point of getting four changes of underwear. My mother always told me to be prepared. On to what I have to say. The national weather bureau has traced the path and history of our current storm. Since its inception in Canada, it has dropped three to six feet of snow on its path. It doesn't look like it's stopping soon. But I and my disaster team will do our best to keep this city running."

"I will start with your commitments. First, try your best if you're a home owner to clear your front sidewalk. If you live next to seniors, try and help them if you can. This is the time to meet your neighbors. If you can't shovel, make sure they have enough food for a few days. No one will be leaving their houses for a while."

"My next point is just a suggestion, not an order. Any business that is NOT a service business, please leave your employees at home. There are only certain jobs that have to be done. They are health workers, transportation, police, fire, streets and sand, 911 employees. I think you get the idea. And grocery store workers, pharmacies. My mind is going blank. If you are one of these employees, bring extra underwear. I know my mother is right."

"I don't know much snow we well get. But I do have some suggestions. If you live in a bungalow home with a big front yard, put as much snow on the grass as you can. So what if it's a mountain. If you have a big back yard, do the same with the snow from the alley. I am fortunate. My garage opens up from my house. Most garages open up into an alley. Streets and Sanitation will talk about that in a minute. I'll introduce you to my team now. My first speaker is Gene Smith. He's head of Streets and Sanitation. Come on up, Gene."

The three boys come back from shoveling.

"I'll make you some hot chocolate."

Helga goes into the kitchen. The boys take off their coats and watch TV.

"Well, we know where Dad is. He's in back," Alex says.

"Is Dad finished?" Eric asks.

"I don't know. Let's listen to the others," Sherrie says.

"Hello. My name is Gene. You'll be seeing a lot of me in the next few days. This is what my department has come up with. If you live in Chicago, you know the drill. First, if you park on a snow route, move your car. Good luck finding a place to put it. Second, this is how we will clear the streets. As we speak, IDOT is doing the expressways. Our people are concentrating on the main streets. They will be at it all night. After the storm stops, or slows down, we will do the side streets. Please be patient. This will take time. It's nature. We can't help it."

"Third, try to find your fire hydrants and keep them uncovered. We don't want fires but we have to be prepared. We suggest covering them with heavy black garbage bags that can be recognized if they are needed. Fourth, the city has never done alleys. We know that gets people mad. This storm will be an exception. Mr. Mayor is releasing emergency funds. He is asking private contractors to do the alleys. It's voluntary. They will be paid a major amount if they agree. All they have to do is go to the City of Chicago website. A link will be put in a few hours, after we set up the phone centers. Now everyone knows, the city is not in control of alleys. We are at the mercy of private companies. There is no guarantee yours will be done. Any volunteers will be assigned their areas. We have a map of blocked off sites. This is only an experimental test. Please be patient. Try your best to clear them yourselves. This storm will not be easy. We'll take questions after everyone has spoken. The next speaker is Valerie Wells from CPS. Come up, Valerie."

She does.

"My name is Valerie Wells. I am speaking for the Chicago Public School system. Today is Wednesday. Since there is only two more days of school this week, classes will resume on Monday morning. It's a good time for you kids to help your parents shovel. This won't be a vacation. I, and the others of this team, will reconvene Sunday night and discuss if there will be classes on Monday. An announcement will be made on the nine o'clock news if there is a change. This will give the city four days to work on the streets. I am not in charge of Catholic schools. You'll have to find out on the news."

"Excuse me, Valerie. I just got the answer. Classes will be cancelled this work week. We'll find out Sunday about Monday. There's something else I forgot to say," Arthur says.

"It's a small issue but it may help. Snow will be dumped on empty lots that are not parking lots. If there is a park in the area, it will be deposited on the grassy areas. The sidewalks will be cleared for foot traffic. Areas near the lake will get the rest. Lincoln Park will become one big mountain range. I don't know how but streets and sanitation may even try to put it in the lake. We've never tried that before. Now back to Valerie."

"I've said my peace. The next speaker will be George Williams, representative of the CTA. Come up, George."

They switch.

"I'm George and I am speaking for public transportation. Buses and trains will still run. They just will be late. We are trying very hard to keep the tracks ice free. This includes Metra, not Amtrak. If you take Amtrak, call ahead. Any train coming from the west is already affected by the storm. Chances are the trips are cancelled. Metra is not cancelled yet. We released extra trains for tonight's commute. Tomorrows schedule has not been prepared. We need more drivers and staff. Vacations have been cancelled. Everyone will be at work. It's important all essential workers be able to work. We want to support hospital workers, police, utilities etc. CTA and Metra are prepared. The next speaker will be Graham Brown. Step up Graham."

"My name is Graham and I am with emergency services. Police, firemen and ambulances will still be working. Just don't expect them immediately when you call. If you're having a baby ladies, cross your legs or tell the father to deliver it. Do not attempt the hospital until transportation is easier. The worse thing is to deliver stuck in a car and snow. Play it safe. We're all in this together."

"If you are elderly do not shovel. Heart attacks don't wait. They kill. If you have no help ask your neighbor. The city will understand if you can't. Like Mayor said before, do your best to help the elderly. The last speaker will be Tom Witkowski."

"My name is Tom. I am on the O'Hare airport board. My speech will be brief. If you need to go to a western state they'll all cancelled. Call first. Our first importance is getting the planes out and starting to clear the runways. We want everyone at their destination. We don't know when flights will reconvene. It won't be in the next few days. If you can, cancel your trips. It's nasty and we are concerned for your safety. Only emergency flights will leave. Air Mail, packages from UPS and FedEx will be late. This storm is no exception. We haven't had one this bad since 1967. I should know. I had to walk to school."

Arthur goes to the microphone.

"Thank you everyone. With all your help Chicago will beat this storm. We're ready for questions now."

"Valerie, what about college classes? Are they cancelled?"

"Students are adults and can fight snow. It's up to the colleges. It will be on the news."

"What if there are private companies to do the alleys?"

"Like I said before, the program is new. It's all voluntary. The money is there so they'll be paid. It's not much. We have to use the rest for Chicago snow clearing. Hopefully this will be a freak storm. The rest of winter will be milder. Cross our fingers."

"Mr. Mayor, we know your wife is ill. Will she go going to chemo?"

"Thank you for your concern. I have told her to stay home until everything calms down. The cancer is not going anywhere. If you need emergency health care, try to delay it. It's not worth killing yourself over an appointment. The one exception is kidney dialysis. Just be careful getting there. Next question? If there aren't any, we'll call it."

He looks at the reporters. There are no questions.

"Good. Thank you for coming. Careful getting home. Thank you all for being part of my dream team. Together we will win."

The broadcast ends. The family looks at each other.

"He's earning his keep," Alex says.

"What do we do, Mom? "Eric asks.

"Keep an eye on your grandparents. Shovel their sidewalk and driveway periodically. This will be a long night. Why don't we play Monopoly? It's a long game. When we get bored there's always more snow to shovel. We'll get some sleep and start early in the morning. How does that sound?" Sherrie says.

"I guess ordering a pizza is out," Larry says.

"Don't even think about it?" Helga says.

"I'll get the game," Larry says.

The phone rings. Alex picks it up.

"Hello..Hi, Dad…Saw you on TV…She's right here."

Alex gives Sherrie the phone.

"Hello?...You're famous…. I just came down to watch TV. I knew you would be on. How much underwear did you take?...I think you'll need it. Where will you sleep?...We're doing fine. We're all here. The kids are ready to shovel when needed and your parents are next door. We'll do everything to help them. You stop worrying. You have a city to run. Love you too."

She hangs up.

"He's going to sleep on a wooden bench outside his office. His back will kill him tomorrow. Let's set up the game."

…

It is the next morning. Arthur sleeps on the bench. Other people are on the floor. It's one big pajama party. A man goes to Arthur and gently wakes him.

"Excuse me, Mr. Mayor. You asked to be woken at seven. It's seven."

Arthur rubs his eyes. His neck is kinked as he wakes up. He stretches.

"I miss my bed. I never thought I'd need a sleeping bag for city hall. Are you ready for your briefing?"

"Not really. Let them sleep until eight. We were up late. Any family messages for me?"

"None, sir. Just messages for the others with updates."

"Could you get some Starbucks and put a bottle for the other sleepers. I'm not myself without Starbucks. How is the storm?"

"We're giving it a good fight."

"How many inches so far?"

"About fifteen or higher, depending on where you ask."

"And the buses?"

"Running. The airport is closed. Schools are still closed. But general transportation is working. The streets are a mess. There's no place for the snow."

"I wish we could throw it into the lake. It's only water. My brother could use the water in Arizona. It's all the Canadian's fault. I've got some bodily functions to take care of. I'll be back in my office at 7:30. Don't forget their coffee?"

"Mr. Mayor, before you go. You know the pedway is open. It's a short underground walk to the Hyatt. I'm sure they have rooms. You could use a bed and enclosed plumbing."

"That's right. I'll get a room after I get my day started. Thanks for reminding me."

…

Everyone wakes up at the Hopkins house. All but Sherrie goes downstairs. Eric look out the window.

"Shit! It doesn't look like we did it,"

"Welcome to Chicago," Alex says.

"Alex, you and I will go to see how the gramps are doing. We should at least do their sidewalk."

"Eric and I will do the house," Helga says.

Sherrie comes down.

"Not until you had a good breakfast. That's hard work. You'll need the energy. Then you can shovel. Alex, make sure the gramps have enough food. If they don't, they can come here."

Sherrie goes into the kitchen.

"I wonder how Dad is doing." Helga asks.

"We'll turn on the TV later. First eat."

….

"It's the second night of the blizzard. Arthur looks out his fifth floor window.

"When will you stop? How much snow is in the cloud?"

Gene knocks and enters the office and walks to the window.

"How bad is it, Gene?"

"I've never seen it so bad. It's impossible to keep up. My trucks and my people are tired."

"Send half home to rest for one night. When they come back, send the other half. We can't afford to kill anyone."

"I'm glad we have enough salt. Last winter was mild so we're saved."

"Anything running that isn't running now?"

"Just Amtrak and O'Hare. I don't know about school on Monday."

"We still have two days to catch up. I refuse to admit defeat to designed water."

"When will you go home? You look tired."

"When it's all over and my city is safe. My place is here. I won't be another Balandic."

"Suit yourself. Did you get a room at the Hyatt yet?"

"I did. I'll be there for two days or so. I look forward to a good shower. Go home, Gene. Get some rest. I'm the only one who has to stay."

"I still feel responsible. You hungry? McDonald's in the pedway is open. It closes soon."

"I am. Get me what you get?"

Gene leaves. He looks down and sees a snow plow doing Clark St.

"This will be a long storm."

…

Arthur is in his room. He looks down at the street. All he sees is white. He is drinking a coffee. He puts the cup down and gets his phone.

"Hello. Hi, Helga. It's Dad. Is Mom available?"

"She's sleeping. Do you want me to get her?"

"No. Just tell her, I have a room at the Hyatt. My bench nights are gone. Is she okay?"

"She has her pain pills."

"Tell her I love her."

He hangs up.

…

The snow is slowing down. There was thirty-one inches in three days. Amtrak is finally running. The airport is open. Chicago is a city with many large mountains. Arthur enters his home. It is very early in the morning. All are asleep. He goes upstairs and enters his bedroom. Sherrie wakes up.

"You're home."

"I ran out of underwear. How are the folks?"

"They're fine. The kids took care of them."

"Good. And the alley?"

"It was done yesterday. That emergency money came in handy."

"There is no emergency. I lied."

"Where did it come from?"

"Me and Guttenberg, LLC. I'm still on the board. The boys will find out when they get back to work."

"You're amazing, Arthur."

"The city needed it. All I transferred was interest. The main amount was not touched. In one year it will be back like nothing happened. I have to shower and shave."

"Just trim it. It looks good."

"See you after my shower. I want to sleep. Don't wake me."

He leaves. Sherrie goes back to sleep.

….

CHICAGO – A YEAR LATER

Sherrie is still in therapy. She and Arthur are in her doctor's office and sit before him.

"What did the tests say?" Arthur asks.

"It's not good. The cancer is still spreading. We could try another chemo session."

Arthur looks at her and holds her hand.

"Do you want to?"

"I'm so tired. I don't think I could do another. I'm not strong enough. How long would I have if I stopped?"

"Maybe a few months. I could give you stronger pain pills. I have the name and address of a good hospice."

"No hospice. I want to die at home."

"I'll give you a number of a nursing service. You'll need me."

She looks at Arthur.

"No emergency fund this time, Mr. Mayor. You have to be honest. No lying. I'll do as you say, Doctor. Give me the phone numbers."

"I'm sorry, Sherrie. It always hurts me to lose a patient to illness. Doctors do get attached."

"Honey, we'll tell the kids tonight."

Arthur squeezes his hand.

…..

It is the last few days. Sherrie is in bed. A nurse tends to her. The kids enter her room and she smiles.

"Now there are faces I like to see."

Helga sits on the bed and the boys stand. Helga takes her hand.

"How do you feel, Mom?"

"Like I'm going to die. It's not easy. It's hard work. Where's your Dad?"

"He's downstairs with Gramps. They're waiting for Uncle Joe. His flight arrived and he's coming from the airport," Alex says.

"It will be good to see him again. I wish it was under different circumstances?"

She squeezes Helga's hand.

"I'm going to miss all of you. You were my pride and joy."

"You were ours, Mom." Larry says.

"You never met your namesake. He died when you were born. We named you after him to keep his name in the family. He was a Jew named Lawrence Abraham Bloom. He had a kind heart and a hyena laugh. He was funny. He was also Joe's husband and the only one to keep him in place. I mention him because I've seen him. He came by my bed and told me he'd be taking me home. He's been back a few times. Only I can see him. It's just a matter of time."

"When did he say it would be, "Eric asks.

"Not very long. When it comes it will be in my sleep. I won't feel pain anymore."

"Do you see him now?" Helga asks.

"He's standing next to Eric. Everyone say hello to Larry."

Everyone looks at Eric. Eric starts to freak.

"Don't worry, son. It's me he wants. It won't be tonight. I'm getting tired. I'd like to sleep a little. Send Uncle Joe up here when he gets here."

Helga and the four leave. Sherrie smiles a Larry.

"Hello, Larry."

…

The four stand outside the room. Eric is still freaked out.

"That felt really weird," Eric says.

"We didn't see him," Larry says.

"I felt him. It was like a cold draft behind me."

"Let's not tell Dad. He's got enough on his mind," Helga says.

They go downstairs. Arthur is in the kitchen. Jack waits by the window. The kids look at Arthur. A cab stops and Noel comes out.

"He's here, son."

Jack goes to the door and opens it before Noel gets there. He walks in and hugs Jack. Joe comes in and sees the kids.

"Hello, guys."

"Hey, Uncle Joe," Larry says.

"I'll put your suitcase in your room," Alex says taking the bag and going upstairs.

"Where's Arthur?"

"In the kitchen."

Noel walks into the kitchen. He is standing over a pre-boiling pot.

"It won't boil if you watch it," Noel says.

Arthur turns and Noel hugs him.

"I'm so sorry, Art."

"Thank you for saying that."

The men let go.

"How is Sherrie doing?"

"She sleeps a lot. It's the pain."

"It's Auntie Mary again. How are you doing?"

"I've been better.

He looks at the water.

"You were right. It's boiling now."

"I was making some instant coffee. Want some?"

"Maybe later. I want to see Sherrie first."

"We'll go together," Arthur says turning off the stove.

The two go upstairs and enter the bedroom. She has her eyes closed. Noel sits on the bed as she opens her eyes.

"Hello, Joe."

"Hey, Sis, rumor says you're going away."

"Don't believe everything you hear?" she says smiling.

"Angie couldn't come. She had Mayor trouble. I'm surrounded with politicians."

"How is the theater?"

"Doing good. Danny and I are promoting two bands. There's talent out there. Danny is a born executive. I love watching him work. He knows the business well."

"You did well with your kids?"

"And so did you. I heard how they handled both houses during the snow storm. Dad was very proud of his grandchildren. I'll give you to Arthur now."

Arthur switches with Noel. He takes her hand and kisses it.

"I love you."

"That makes two of us. I don't have much time. I can feel it."

"I know. Are you still in pain?"

"I try not to think about it. There is no way I could do more chemo. It would kill me sooner. I wanted to spend my time with my family."

"We're all glad you did. I was in a hospice when my Aunt died. We weren't there when she passed. We saw what it did to Uncle Arthur. It tore him apart."

"I'll try not to do that. Arthur, I know we weren't the perfect couple. Loyalty was not your strength. I knew about the others. Paul was no surprise. His gender was. But I still loved you and I knew down inside you that you still loved me. That's why I never gave up on you. You were a real asshole."

"I don't deny it. I hope I've made up for it these past years. I tried my best."

"And you succeeded very well. I knew I was right to wait. You have out done yourself."

He bends down and kisses her. She smiles at nothing.

"We're not alone. Larry's here. He's standing next to Joe. He'll be taking me home. Not tonight. Maybe tomorrow or the day after."

"Tell him I said hello. Thank him for helping Noel when he needed to help me."

"I hear you, Joe. I know. I talk to Sherrie when she's alone. I miss you too. I'm happy you have moved on." Larry says to Noel.

He is heard by all.

"So am I. We all need love."

"Arthur, I want you to move on. A person should not be alone. I know this time you will be loyal. You've learned your lesson," Larry says.

"I sure did that."

"I'm tired. I'd like to rest a little now," Sherrie says

Arthur bends down and kisses her again. The two men leave. She looks at Larry.

"As you were saying, Larry."

…

Noel sits alone in the living room. It is snowing outside. He looks at all the Christmas decorations in the room. He leans back and sighs. Larry shows up and sits across from him. Noel smiles.

"We can finally talk, Joe. It's been a long time."

"Many years. You're doing good. When did you become an angel?"

"A few years back. Arthur was my test case. You and I both saved his soul. A few years passed and I had an interview with the boss. That's when he made a real Angel of Death. I take occasional non-death cases but I primarily bring people home. I was glad when I got Sherrie as my appointment. I was hoping to see you again."

"Now you have. Will you come and get me at my time?"

"Try and stop me. But it won't be for a long time. I have to go back to Sherrie now. We need to talk about the final arrangements. She won't feel pain. I will make sure of that. "

"Thank you. Larry."

Larry disappears. Arthur has been watching and comes in.

"Did you see him, Art?"

"Yeah, I did. We have our own guardian angel."

"Art, if you ever feel lonely when she's gone, you know where to find me. I haven't moved from my house. There will always be a room for you."

Arthur signs.

"I hate my prior life. I was such a fool. I was married to an angel and I always tried to run away. I hope my children won't do the same."

"I sure they won't."

…

The two go downstairs. Jack, Allison and the four kids stand. Allison goes to hug Noel.

"Hello, Joseph."

"Hi, Mom. You still look good. I missed you."

He lets her go.

""And I missed you. You're still my little boy," she says hugging him.

"Angie sends her regards. She has Mayor business. The population of Nowhere has doubled to twenty. She has to delegate taxes."

"When will you go into politics?"

"I want to stay in music, not politics. I wish Sherrie was not the reason for the trip. I liked it when we all were the same age and very much alive."

"You mean Larry."

"Larry is with God. He wanted him. He's much happier."

"Sit down. Tell me about the theater."

"It's going great. We're backing two bands and recording a third. Music classes just began. There's talent out there. I'm thinking of expanding it to non-indigenous students. Everyone should be exposed to music. Even if they did give it up for politics," Noel says clearing his throat.

"I heard that. I have to alter my priorities."

"Did you have to leave music? You were so good," Noel says.

"Something had to go. It was music."

"Shame. Our last record was good. I still listen to it when I can. I'll have that coffee now. Remember, don't watch the pot."

…

It is the next morning everyone except Jack, Allison and Anna are awake. They are drinking coffee. Arthur comes down. He looks very tired.

"How is she?" Noel asks.

"She was in so much pain. I know she didn't get sleep. She could hardly breathe. I wish death would take her sooner. Does that make me a bad person?"

"Just an honest one."

"I wish I could turn back time. I wouldn't be an asshole husband. I couldn't help myself. There were too many pretty girls."

"And one boy," Noel adds.

"And one boy. How do you do it? How did you stay loyal? What's your secret?"

"It's no secret. When I love someone they're all I see. The trick is getting me to love. That's the hard part."

"Could you move on if something happened to Angie?"

"I couldn't. We're not two people anymore, we're one. I don't know when it happened. The kids were growing up and one day I looked at her. She turned into a mirror and I saw my own reflection. She's in every fiber of my body."

"Sherrie and I were always too. We never merged. It was not the money. That balanced out. It was me. I wanted to stay an individual. Sherrie tried to merge but it didn't work. You are so fortunate."

There is a knock on the door. Alex opens to see the nurse.

"How is she?"

"Last night was bad."

"I'll go check on her," she says going up.

"Have you made the final plans?"

"She's going in the family vault, next to her parents. The funeral home is on call."

The nurse comes in.

"Excuse me, Mr. Hopkins, it's time you should all go up there."

"Someone needs to call Dad," Arthur says.

"I will," Larry says picking up the phone.

The others go upstairs to the bedroom. Arthurs sits on a chair by the bed. The others stand. Larry comes in.

"Gramps and Anna are getting dressed," Larry says.

Arthur caresses Sherrie's hand and tries to smile. He is failing.

"It's time, honey. All I have is a few minutes," Sherrie weakly says.

He kisses her hand.

"I love you, Sherrie."

"And I love you. We'll only be apart for a short time. When we see each other, we'll have forever," Sherrie says.

Larry leaves and let's Jack, Allison and Anna enter. The three join the group.

"We're all here dear," Jack says.

"It's time for me to see good bye. I'll start with the kids. Come give your mother a kiss before she goes."

They do. She reaches to Jack and family. They approach the bed.

"Thank you for being the best in-laws a girl could have."

"You were a special girl," Allison says.

They lean down and kiss her. She looks at Anna.

"Anna, I'm glad you and Helga are friends. Three brothers can be overwhelming."

She looks at Arthur. His eyes are tearing.

"Don't cry, Art. I'm going to meet God, face-to-face. I wish I could come back and tell you what he looks like, but I can't. I will miss you most. We lost so much time together. We'll have forever soon."

She looks ahead. Larry stands by her bed. Everyone can see him.

"I'm ready, Larry. What do I have to do?"

He sits on the other side of the bed.

"Arthur, take your last kiss," Larry says.

He kisses Sherrie.

"Sherrie take my hands and look at my face. Take a deep breath and relax. I will take away the pain. It's time to go. Let your spirit go free into my hands," Larry says.

She does and slowly closes her eyes. She stops breathing. They disappear. She is gone. Arthur's lips start quivering and he starts to cry. Noel hugs him as he cries.

"She's with God, bro. She feels no pain," Noel says crying.

The nurse checks her vitals. This time is 9:15 a.m. I'll sign the report," the nurse says.

She signs her paper work and turns to Jack.

"Mr. Hopkins, it's time to call 911. Tell them not to rush," the nurse says.

Jack leaves to call. All the others stand there numb. Noel continues hugging Arthur as he cries. On the five o'clock news a reporter says "Mrs. Sherrie Hopkins, wife of the mayor passed in her sleep with her family around her. The city send their regards. Funeral arrangements will be announced later."

….

THREE YEARS LATER

Arthur has picked White Elk for his running mate. They are in their primaries. Several debates has been added. Arthur, White Elk and Bette are at one. He is debating one of the many people apposing him. The two men are standing behind their podiums. White Elk and Bette are off screen. There is one moderator sitting before them.

"The next question will be about education. Where do you see American education in the future? What will you try to improve? We'll start with Mr. Harris."

"I think we are teaching our students the wrong thing. I have connections with religious schools where I teach the truth. Science is not always correct. Evolution never happened. Man did exist with the dinosaurs."

Arthur shakes his head no.

"History is not one-sided. It tells the truth about how everyone was treated. Those groups confronting it are just telling lies. The lives of the afflicted were not that bad. No one was mistreated. I will start to teach TRUE history."

Arthur shakes his head and laughs.

"Something funny, Mr. Hopkins?" the moderator asks.

"I'm sorry. I just had a funny thought. Please go on, Mr. Harris."

"I want to hear what you think, Mr. Hopkins?" Harris says.

"Your ears. I have heard the principals of your school system. If we accept yours, the American student will become a dummy. We need to advance where they are at. Example: evolution. There is evidence it is true. For man to exist the dinosaurs had to die. Then there came an ice age. After, man began. God started out fresh. The only dinosaurs left became birds."

"The reason I laughed when was I was young, I would watch The Flintstones cartoons on Saturday mornings. I didn't realize I was watching educational TV. Adam and Eve were not the first people. Fred and Wilma were."

There are laughs in the audience.

"Coming from a person with an Indian running mate. Why did you choose him? Couldn't you get someone else more educated and socially acceptable?"

"Ouch," White Elk laughs.

"Would you like me to answer that Mr. Moderator?" Arthur asks.

"Yes, please."

"Alright, Mr. Harris. I'll answer it. I chose Robert Hawk because he is the most honest, sincere and very educated man I have ever met. I did choose him because he is the BEST man for the position. He survived five tours in Afghanistan. He has killed many Taliban to save the lives of OUR soldiers. There are many who owe their lives to him. One is my brother. When his patrol was ambushed his men killed the men that attacked them. It was HIM that pulled my brother out of the mountain of dead bodies. He then went to the hospital with him."

"My brother was shot many times and lost a lot of blood. When we found out what Joe's blood type was it was the same as 1st Sgt. Robert Hawk, Sr.. He donated his own blood. The doctor told us Joe would die in surgery without it. My brother is alive now, married and has three children. I guess with Bob's blood that makes him Indian too. He's not white anymore."

"You ask why Indian? I'll tell you. The white man has done everything to try and kill them. Those stories about what WE did to them are true, not made up. We did the same to the blacks and the American Japanese citizens. The Jews were not the first one's hurt. I chose Bob because of what he did for my brother, a white man, and for what WE did to his people. It's about time the world knows how HONORABLE the Indigenous nation is. It's time WE , as white men, recognize what wrongs we did and admit it. Does that answer your question, Mr. Harris?"

The audience claps. White Elk is in shock and turns to Bette.

"I'm glad he's on my side. I don't want to get him angry."

The debate goes on and ends. The opponent is pissed off. Arthur goes to White Elk and Bette.

"Well, how did I do?"

"What the hell was that, Art? You did the one thing you don't do in a debate. You lost it. Debates are not theatrical. They're educational. If we win, and you pull that stunt again your life will be shortened and I will be the next one finishing your term. Do I make myself clear? There are certain rules in politics and you are breaking them all."

"I promise I won't do it again. I just couldn't help myself."

"I can defend myself. I don't need you. I guess I'll have to teach you how to act."

"Yes, sir."

Harris walks up to Arthur.

"I hope you're satisfied, Hopkins. You made your point."

"Thank you and have a good rest of the day."

Harris starts walking away.

"Mr. Harris, if you're looking for Fred he's walking Dino in the back. Dinosaurs shit a lot and you don't want to clean that up in your house. You should see the size bag he has."

Harris continues walking away. White Elk is still angry and shocked. Bette starts laughing.

"What is so funny, wife?"

"Fred is walking Dino. That makes you Barney," she says laughing.

Arthur starts to laugh too. White Elk glares at both of them.

"You two are made for each other,"

"Barney's wife is Betty, different spelling," Arthur says.

"It could be worse, Bob. You could be Dino," Bette says laughing.

"I give up. Why did I agree to work with you? It is good about Fred and Wilma." White Elk says starting to laugh.

…..

Angie is sitting on the couch and reading. She is crying. Arthur has just died and Noel finished his initial outline for his book. She puts the last sheet down as Noel comes into the living room. She wipes her tears as he sits next to her.

"What did you think, Love? Did you like it?"

"I can't stop crying."

"I couldn't either. That's the last time I was with him until he ran for President. Now, all I need is Elk's ending and the book is done."

"It doesn't need much work. A professional editor could clean it up."

"I wish I could have had more time with him. Forty-six was too young to go. I never realized how much I loved him until I sat down and wrote it. He's with Sherrie now. They have forever," Noel says a tear running down his cheek.

"Tomorrow I'll call the English Department at Phoenix University. They should know where to find an editor. I still say it won't need much work, but then I'm partial," Angie says.

"I wonder what Elk will say. He saw him at the end. I just hope I don't become a wet rag when I read it," Noel says.

"I think we both will, Noel."

"I love you, Angie. I really do feel we've become one person. I see my reflection in you. Do you see your reflection in me?"

"Yes, love, I do."

She kisses him and stands.

"Put the document in a safe place. We'll call the university tomorrow."

…

White Elk is sitting in the oval office. He is reading Amanda's transcript. He, too, is tearing. He puts down the last page and looks up. He takes a deep breath.

"Amanda, could you come in here please?"

"I finished the transcript. You have a good way with words. I feel like having a good cry. Noel will love it. Thank you for your help. Arthur would be proud."

"We all loved him. He was a breath of fresh air."

"And what am I, chopped liver?"

"You're old. You fit the establishment. We all do. Arthur was our child. I felt like his mother."

"And I felt like his father. Make a copy and file it under. I don't know what letter?"

"I do, H for heart. Arthur had a big one."

She takes the document and walks out. White Elk smiles.

"Yes, he did have a big heart."

….

Noel is in the bar. Tom is behind. Angie comes in with the mail.

"Mail is here."

She gives it all to Tom except for one big envelope. She goes to Noel.

"The return address is the White House. Bob kept his promise," Angie says.

"Looks like your book is finished. You got your last chapter," Tom says

"I'm afraid to open it. The last thing I want to remember is how he died. Here goes nothing."

He rips open the envelope and pulls out the document. It is long.

"How many pages?" Angie asks.

"Looks like fifteen. Elk had plenty to say."

Noel begins to read out loud.

HIS FINAL DAYS

BY

PRESIDENT 1st Sgt. ROBERT HAWK SR.

"My name is President 1st Sgt. Robert Hawk Sr. I have been asked by Arthur's brother, Noel to document the last days of President Arthur Hopkins. After plenty of thought I decided to begin before the election, about eight months before. I was on the second sequential term as Senator of Arizona when he came to see me. He had just announced his desire to run for President. I had known him for close to twenty years. At first it was remembering. Then he told me the reason he came. He asked me to be his running mate. I don't have to tell you how surprised I was."

"During those years I knew he was a conservative Republican. I was a liberal Democrat. Politics was one subject we never discussed. Here was my arch enemy asking me to work with him. I told him of our differences and I was a wrong choice. He should find a fellow Republican. He still wanted me. He said he trusted my honesty and sincerity."

"I was so honest I prepared a report on my recent voting. My hope was he would see the level of differences and come to his senses. I was secretly hoping he would change his mind. The next day he called and was still insistent. He said we would learn how to compromise. I reluctantly agreed."

"We went to work creating our platform. That's when he told me the real reason he chose me. Fifteen years earlier, when he found God, he had a vision. He saw us sitting in the Oval Office with his female admin taking notes. We were discussing a major crisis. He didn't know what it was but it involved saving the planet and its entire people. I took his word but I was reluctant to believe him. I wondered about his sanity. We agreed to keep the vision a secret until it actually came. He was sure it would be soon. He couldn't tell me anymore."

"For months we did all the primaries and debates. I recall one debate where he verbally attacked one of the other runners. The man did not believe in evolution. He said man and dinosaurs existed at the same time. Arthur started to laugh and compared the theory to the Flintstones cartoons he saw as a child. He didn't know he was watching educational TV. His opponent shut up after. You had to be there to enjoy it."

"Some primaries we lost and some we won. And then it became Election Day. Arthur, my wife and I waited for results. It was a long day and night. We needed only six votes to beat our opponent. The last state was California, a state with more than enough votes. Their results came in. We had it. We were both in shock. My response was "Now what do we do?"
The reporters put their cameras on us. This was NOT a response we expected."

"We both got up and spoke our speeches. He finished by singing "God Bless America". We ended the evening raising our unison hands up in the air. I have the picture on my desk. It was a happy and scary moment for both of us. We had just signed our lives away. I became the first Indigenous V.P. in American history."

"Inauguration Day came and we were sworn in. There were more speeches and we were shown our new working and living quarters. Arthur summarized it in two words," Nice Digs". I was used to the accommodations because of my terms as Senator. He was like a kid in a candy store. What he didn't expect was the lack of privacy. Secret Service became our shadows. It bothered him but not me. It seemed like a dream to him."

"The other thing he didn't expect was the beauty of his admin. Janet was a beautiful ebony. She was very good at her job and tried to train him of the status quo. He resisted. He insisted on eating at the Capital cafeteria with the other employees. He was not always in proper attire. He ran through the halls in jeans, a sweat shirt and gym shoes. He drove Secret Service crazy. They had a hard time keeping up with him."

"The Inaugural Ball came. Bette, Arthur and I stood watching the door. It was like a senior prom. Then SHE came in. Janet was even more beautiful. We didn't think it was possible. She was Cinderella and Arthur was her smitten prince for one night. The orchestra began a waltz. He took her into his arms and they glided on the dance floor. It was like a fairy tale. They disappeared into the garden. Rumor is he kissed her. After he apologized and promised it would not happen again and it didn't. He became the perfect boss. He never chased her around the desk. He respected her mind. But he lusted for her body. Every man did."

"We became the Three Musketeers. Every Monday we had our briefings. Janet told us what we needed to know in national and international affairs. It was totally professional. In between current issues we executed our own agendas. Our days were very full."

"Then came one problem we couldn't ignore. Russia and the Ukraine were at war. Russia gave the Ukraine their freedom and they were about to join NATO. NATO was helping the country rebuild. Things were going very well until Russia started building up troops at the border. We knew they were going to attack again and this time we would have to stop them permanently. This was the crisis of Arthur's vision. The three of us had to save the Ukraine AND the world."

"He thought long and hard and came up with a plan I totally was against. That was the one time I openly disagreed. He had a toy statue of Gort, the robot from the movie "The Day the Earth Stood Still." I had seen it a few times and for the time it was made, 1951, it became very controversial. It was about the cold war and the threat of destroying the world. This is what was happening in present Ukraine."

"Arthur swore to protect both the city and our country. He sent in troops to defeat Russian invasion. If the Russian leader sent in atomic bombs, we would destroy them in the atmosphere, endangering the air we breathe. We would die from radiation poisoning. That's what he decided to do. He called a meeting of the Musketeers and we told Janet of his vision for the first time. He then he had her create a skype call between us and the leading scientists of Russia, where he explained his decision. I was shocked and refused."

"He later said it was up to them to stop their leader from employing the bombs. He put the ball in their court. They asked if he meant a coup. He said they said the word not him. After he ended the call I left the office angry."

"Unknown to me and Janet, Arthur was becoming very ill. He had abdominal pains and never told anyone. It was Janet who found his large supply of Pepto Bismol in his desk drawer. Another time, while he was swimming, he had pains and almost drowned. Secret Service pulled him out of the pool in time. That was when WE made him see a doctor."

"He was reluctant as first, thinking it was his ulcer. Turned out he had cancer of this large intestine. He needed it removed to be replaced by a temporary ostomy bag. It was like his wife again. Even if the bag was temporary, he fought the idea."

"Russia was threatening the Ukraine again. NATO called a meeting. Arthur was supposed to go but his illness stopped him. He gave me a letter to read and sent me. I missed the excitement that came next. Arthur and Janet bonded and they were married in the Oval Office. She found the judge. They wrote their own marriage license and two Secret Service agents were the witnesses. That night they made it legal. Arthur planned to tell me when I got back. I got back. I never saw him alive again."

"The next day he was finalizing our joint merger as Co-Pres. He had a violent attack. His colon perforated. Poison was going through his body. He collapsed on the floor and was not found for close to an hour. He was rushed to surgery and died on the table at 2:47 p.m. This is when I became President. I rushed back to be sworn in with the Speaker of the House as President and V-P. It all happened so fast. It was pure chaos."

Noel stops for a moment. He is finding it hard to read on. He takes a breath and Angie holds his hand.

"You have to go on, Noel. I know it's difficult."

"I felt the pain when it happened. We always had that physical tie. I felt him die."

He takes a breath and starts to read again.

"There were things to do, people to call and funerals to arrange. Family flew in. His body was displayed in the Capital Rotunda and he was finally buried at Arlington National Cemetery. Janet left D.C. I only knew where she went. It was a well-deserved trip. Arthur would have been proud."

"A miracle happened on the day of his death. The Russian scientists Arthur spoke to did a coup. They removed their current leader with no violence. NATO and the Ukraine was finally safe. Arthur put it in the hands of the scientists and they ended the crises. They did it because he was a man of peace. They wanted to honor him, the man, not the President."

"His final days were filled with chaos and fear. He chose a drastic way to prove his point. The world would have been destroyed just to play Russia's bluff. He duplicated what happened in the sci-fi film and hoped for a good answer. It worked. The toy of Gort saved everyone. I gave Janet the toy of Gort before she left so she could remember him."

"If I were to summarize Arthur in a few words, they would be VERY COMPLEX. I met him when he was a rock star and lawyer. He even helped me when I got into trouble. Sometimes he was too defiant for his own good. He and his brother Joe always fought, even physical. I remember Joe coming from a music convention with a shiner. Arthur did it. Other times they fought and Joe won. The last time Joe won he sat on him. He had to. Arthur was having a breakdown and needed help. That was fifteen years ago. That's when he found God."

"Arthur the Christian was a man I didn't know. He kept his new found faith to himself. He didn't force it on any one. It wasn't uncommon to enter the Oval Office and see him alone, praying. He had a new respect for God and he didn't care who saw it. He made me feel guilty. I thought I was spiritual. His brother once told me there's nothing worse than a born again Christian. In Arthur's case it saved his life AND his marriage. He was a changed man."

"When I served with him, I saw that change. His reaction too many problems we inherited was always one of reason and compromise. The Russian Affair was the exception. When I found out he died I followed his last orders, even though I disagreed. I feared what would happen if things went wrong. God was on his side. It worked."

"Arthur told me he knew he wouldn't live through the Russian Affair. He said he was going to be God's sacrificial lamb. I didn't believe him. I thought he was silly and comparing himself to Jesus. I see now he was right. It was his vision that brought us together. And it was his vision that took him away much too early in his life. If only he had that surgery two days earlier he would have a bag, but he would be alive. You can't change people's minds."

"I don't know what else he had in his mind to do. He was only President for four months. I would have liked to see what else he had planned. But most of all I wish he and his new wife would have had a long loving life."

Noel stops again. He can barely read without wanting to cry.

"I need a break. Tom, get me a drink. I need one."

He does. Noel takes it. He drinks it and takes a deep breath.

"There's only one paragraph left."

"Arthur, I wish you were still here. I loved you as a son. Try to be good to your new boss. I hear he has a loving heart. Sit by his side and glow in his everlasting love. You will never be forgotten in our hearts and in our minds. Complex as you were as a man, your heart, next to your brain, was the biggest organ in your body. You were all we could ask for. God go with you."

Noel puts the document down and looks at Tom and Angie. They are silent.

"I don't think that need editing," Angie says.

"I wish I had been there when he was ill. I could have helped him," Noel says.

"All you could do was change the bags, nothing more. It was his choice to wait," Tom says.

"I wish we didn't fight so much. We really loved each other. We needed more love and less fighting."

"You two were just being normal. It's called sibling rivalry. Remember Cain and Abel?" Tom asks.

"Cain killed Abel."

"We'll skip that part. Does this mean your manuscript is almost complete?"

"All it needs is editing," Noel says.

Tom rubs Noel's back.

"There's nothing you could have done, son. It was his time to go," Tom says.

"He was so young. I lost my husband at twenty and my brother at forty-six. It doesn't seem right. I'll call and thank him."

He leaves. Tom looks at Angie.

"Is he okay?"

"The book got to him. He never realized how much he needed his brother. The complete book will help."

Angie leaves. Tom sits at the counter.

….

Angie enters the house. Noel is sitting on the couch with the full galley on his lap, looking into space. She sits by him.

"What are you looking at?"

"Nothing. I see nothing. I feel nothing. The book is very hard for me. I still don't know if I said all that should be said. I keep remembering more. What do I do? Do I put in inserts to be edited too?"

"Honey, it broke your heart to write what you felt. It was the only medicine that worked. I don't feel you are finished. You have a beginning, middle and end. But you have no closure."

"How do I write closure?"

"It's called an addendum. I'll help you. You write what I say in your own words."

She gets a paper and pen, and gives to him and begins dictating."

"Well, that's the end of my story. I would like to thank Pres. Robert Hawk for my last chapter. I wasn't there. He was. I have written my book but it didn't give me closure. I never will have it. I think back on all the years we never spoke because we were fighting. What a waste of time. Life is short and now he's gone."

"That's good, Angie. Keep going."

"We can't get that time back. All I can do is love the people around me even more. One day they won't be there and I'll be alone. Love all your family and friends. Like they say "Make new friends but keep the old. The new are silver. The older is gold."

A tear runs down his cheek as he writes. She takes his hand.

"Don't write this yet. I may be wrong. Hear it first. If I had to pick the most important time in our relationship, it would be the four days I disappeared. They were hell. I was ready to die. I collapsed. The next thing I remember was the cold water waking me up. Arthur had thrown it. The first thing I saw was Arthur's warm loving eyes and gentle smile. I looked at his concerned face and for the first time I felt safe. He held my head in his lap. He didn't need to speak. His eyes said everything. And then I went unconscious again. But I knew I was in my brother's arms. Everything would be fine. How does that sound, Noel?"

"Are you sure you weren't there? That is how I felt."

"Then write it in your own words. I'll continue when you're done."

He does and looks at her. He is lightly crying by now. He nods.

"Now my story is finished. Everything is said. I hope I haven't bored you. I'm not used to writing prose. I write songs. Arthur will be known as the President with the shortest term. He is more than that. I hope this book has at least done that."

"Arthur, I'm sorry for all the time we lost. I never stopped loving you. It can never be the type of love God will give you. But it will be all I can give you. There is a new angel in heaven and it is you."

She stops. He is crying. She holds him. He looks at her.

"Thank you, Angie. Those were beautiful words. I feel better now. I have my own angel, you."

"That's why Dad named me Angela."

She kisses him. He still cries and she rocks him.

….

Noel enters his house. Angie is in the kitchen.

"I'm here, love. Where's the surprise you told me about?"

"It's the box on the couch. Use your pocket knife."

He goes. Angie enters the living room.

"It's the books."

"Don't just look at them. See them. Pull one out."

He does and thumbs through it.

"What do you think?"

"I can't believe I'm an author. It pays to be related to the President. The agents and publishers found me."

"It pays to be famous. We picked a good picture for the cover. You're a very handsome man," Angie says taking a book.

"I just hope people read it."

"They will. You're a country music star. They know you. You know what this means; publicity, TV shows, interviews and book signings. You'll be very busy for a while."

"That's not why I did it. I wanted the world to know the real Arthur. Thank you for adding the forward. It's a perfect sandwich. You and Elk are the two people, not related to me, I love the most."

He looks at her again.

"So what's next?"

"Call your agent. He called when you were at the theater. It's time to start promoting yourself."

….

WASHINGTON – THE OVAL OFFICE

White Elk is at his desk working on his computer. Amanda comes in.

"Bob, I have something for you."

He looks up.

"A book?"

"A special book. I live by a book store. I saw this on my way home and got one. This one is for you," Amanda says giving him the book.

"Love Revisited" by Noel Jackson. He really did it. I can't wait to read it."

"I read the first few chapters last night. It's very touching. I checked the last chapter. He didn't change a word. It's all you."

He puts the book down and sighs.

"I still feel like my chair is his. Sometimes I feel he sits here watching me. If I am dealing with a new issue I always ask myself, what would he do?"

"Bob, you're a very intelligent man. You don't need to live in the past. You earned this position. I have a feeling it was really meant for you, not him. He was just a step you had to take. Arthur should have stayed in music. I often wonder what songs he would have written. I still listen to his records."

"So do I. I agree with you. But he chose politics."

"How else would you become President? Think about it."

She leaves. He looks at the book and turns to the forward and reads out loud.

"My name is Angie. And I am Mrs. Noel Jackson. I met Noel when-"

….

POLAND – A YEAR LATER

A black man in army fatigues walks by a book store. He stops and reads a small piece of paper in his hand. A clerk is putting up books.

"Excuse me, Sir? Do you speak English?"

"I do. How can I help you?"

"I'm looking for this street. I was told it is around here."

"Go two streets west and turn left. The shop is on the corner. Looking for jewelry?"

"For a very special lady. What is that book you're holding?"

"It's American and in English. I still have to put up the Polish ones. The man who wrote it is the brother of President Arthur Hopkins. It's about their lives together. I don't know why the last names are different."

"I do. He legally changed it. His name was Joseph Hopkins. My friend met him as Jackson when his brother died. I'll take two copies, in English please.''

"What does the title mean?"

"I think it refers to a record they worked on together when both were still in music. It was called "Love". My lady friend has it. President Hopkins left music when he went into politics. He brother still does it."

"I wouldn't know. He's not very famous here. He has to sing in Polish. Come with me to the register."

…

A few months have passed. Janet has married John. She is in the nursery. Arthur is in a crib, sleeping on his stomach. She has been reading him the book and closes it. John comes in and watches as she ends the book.

"You realize he didn't understand a word you said. He's still a baby."

"I wanted to read him to sleep. I also wanted to read the book. So I did both. What do we do when we tell him the truth?"

"Knowing his mother he'll know his music. That's when we give him the book to read for himself. Then we'll take him to Arlington. That's the easy part. The hard part is getting to meet his blood family. The older adults will be dead my then. His seven half-siblings will still be there. He needs to know he's not alone."

"What do I do when he asks personal questions about our love relationship? I really didn't know him. We were strangers. We married, became man and wife, and the next day he was dead. I won't know what to tell him. You're the only father he will have known. This white man will be unknown."

"Is that what's bothering you? He was white?"

"I don't know how he'll react, John. Who will he call his true father? The man who created him or the man who raised him? John, you deserve to be called his father, not Arthur. All he gave me was his DNA."

He puts his hand on her neck from behind and starts rubbing.

"We will work on that together when the time comes. Who knows? He may want to be the next President in the family. We've done everything we can for him. Wherever Arthur is, I'm sure he's pleased with you."

They both look at the sleeping baby. She gets up and leaves the book by the bed and turns off the light and they leave.

Arthur and Sherrie appear. She looks into the crib.

"What a beautiful child. You did well, Arthur," Sherrie says.

"I wish I had known sooner. I would have been a good father to him. I'm glad God sent him another one. Sleep well, my son. I will always be watching you," Arthur says.

He turns to the book and picks it up.

"Thank you, Joe, for writing this."

He puts the book down by the toy of Gort. They leave the room. An orb enters the room and shines on the book cover. It illuminates Noels' face. It then shuts off and the room goes dark.

THE END

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