The Jealous One

Jack Bessie is the creator of the website, Jack Bessie’s Duct Tape for the Soul https://www.jackofwords.com It is filled with all sorts of insightful, funny, crazy and profoundly motivating stuff!

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A Thought

We have many expectations in life, wanting it to be orderly and to progress in certain ways. Humans yearn for stability and order, and hate having change thrust upon them unexpectedly. Disaster, upheaval, threats to our health, our relationships, are never welcomed with a hug!

That these do come upon us, is mostly an unavoidable fact, and we are frequently angry and frustrated when they do. We may suspect that God finds our desire to have peace and quiet mostly amusing. He certainly seems less inclined to grant our desires than we might like!

In fact, it seems clear to anyone who reflects even partially, that God finds it advantageous for us to frequently be challenged. We would certainly not volunteer for it otherwise! Thus, His supremely effective manner of inflicting change and upheaval on us is both good and necessary. That we would be doing ourselves a favor by simply keeping our complaining to ourselves, and accepting what comes to us, is clearly a lot harder to actually do than it seems in theory!

The Jealous One is an exploration of jealousy, and God’s afflicting of the necessity of change onto a less than eager soul. That He can give any one of us a seemingly impossible puzzle to wrestle with is well worth contemplating, as is the idea that in His universe, love does indeed matter more than any other thing. Have fun considering that, as well as what you’d do if He decided to give you a serious challenge! You’d probably be wise to be prepared better when He does get around to giving you one!

Jack Bessie

1

Returning from the darkness of unawareness, Mark Rubin first noticed the utter silence, which seemed to contrast so profoundly with what he recalled of his last sensations. What happened to all the noise, the voices? he wondered dreamily. He seemed to be lying on his back, feeling light and almost weightless. He suddenly remembered that he had been in terrible pain, and quite afraid, both of which seemed now to have departed.

Where was I…all those voices, people yelling? he wondered wordlessly. He suddenly heard a soft voice reply, seeming like a woman’s, and carrying a touch of amusement.

You were busy trying to die…in the emergency room, it suggested.

Mark turned toward the sound, and opened his eyes a tiny bit, wanting to peek. What he saw made them open fully, astonished. A being, robed in white, with the most beautiful, angelic face and long golden hair sat beside him, with its chin resting on its hands, its perfectly beautiful fingers framing its smiling cheeks.

He stared, trying to get his mind to accept what he was seeing, and at last, he whispered, So, I’m dead? in a small and timid voice.

The being shook its head slightly, sat up and stretched.

No, you aren’t dead…at least not yet. You’re in limbo… stuck in an instant of time, your body still on earth, in the place of time and matter, but your soul has wandered off, and is now here, at the threshold of the heavenly plane.

Mark suddenly remembered what had proceeded this moment; the crushing pain of his heart trying to stop, the frantic ambulance ride, the crazy madhouse of the ER, as the staff tried to revive him. He recalled leaving his body, which seemed to be destined to become cold and inhospitable, and as he looked down upon the chaos, he had heard someone call,

We’re losing him! Now he was here, wherever here was.

Where was the threshold of heaven?

He managed to nod, to signify that he understood what had gone before, but he was now quite nervous; why was he where he was? And who was this beautiful one sitting next to him, who could apparently read his thoughts?

I am Selential, your guardian angel, the being responded, smiling brightly. Yes, I can hear your thoughts, and as to why you are here, in the place that you are…it is quite simple; He wishes to speak with you!

Mark felt a sudden sense of panic, the way that Selential had emphasized the word He left no doubt as to who she might be referring to.

Why does God want to talk to me…am I in that much trouble? he squeaked nervously.

This brought a burst of laughter from the angel, which sounded beautiful and sweet.

Hardly, Selential managed to finally reply, or rather, no worse than the average human. No one does very well by His standards, but He loves all of you in spite of how you might do…and that’s a most wonderful thing!

So, why does he need to talk to me…do I stay or go…or does that depend on something?

Selential grinned at this. Something like that. Do you feel ready to go see Him?

Mark struggled to sit up, suddenly quite nervous. He was even more shocked to discover that he had been floating on absolutely nothing. He managed to swallow his awe, and speak. I have no idea how to talk to God…I can’t imagine I’ve ever seen him, hav…why are you laughing?

Oh, that’s so funny! Every time you finish a life, you meet Him for a chat, and He tells you how you did! Even a brand new soul gets to have a chat before going off to try their first life…that one’s easy and fun compared to the one on the trip back.

Why? he asked, suddenly even more nervous.

Selential grinned. The new ones always do rather poorly on the first try, and have to be rather sternly examined by Him when they return. He’s rather displeased by wickedness and evil doing, and they are often guilty of much of those sorts of failings. They do better with practice, all souls do, but they wouldn’t if He didn’t motivate them properly! she said and laughed.

Mark looked glumly at her, I suppose I’ve had my share of that? he asked, looking uncomfortable.

Selential took his arm, to guide him along, and glancing at him, she giggled slightly. Oh yes you have…in spite of our best efforts to nudge you along and keep you on track! I and my fellows can only do so much, she suggested simply.

You can’t interfere with my decisions, can you?

No! You have free will, and if you insist on being stupid, we have to just watch and wait. She looked rather displeased. You’ve caused me a lot of tears, I’ll have you know! she declared, sounding like a disappointed parent.

Really? Why? Do you get in trouble if I screw up?

Hardly! That would be most unfair…and He’s never unfair! Ever!

Mark noticed that they had arrived at what appeared to be a rather impressive set of ornamental garden gates, which open magically as they stepped near. As they stepped through, into the most stunningly beautiful garden landscape Mark had ever imagined, he managed to ask Selential, So why do you get so worked up over me that you would cry? he quietly asked.

Selential didn’t speak, looking down with what Mark surmised to be a guilty look. Instead, a deep and powerful voice seemed to emanate from all around them, with an answer. Because she cares for you…far more than she should! the voice seemed to boom and echo all the way through them. More quietly, it continued on, addressing Selential. Would you enlighten the object of your interest, please? it commanded.

Selential seemed to sigh heavily, looking quite pained. Glancing up at him, she began to explain, looking thoroughly embarrassed. The guardians watch over every human, following them attentively from the moment their soul takes up residence in the new born body. We stay, usually within a few feet of you, as you go through life, not actually trying to interfere, but we are permitted to give you a bit of a nudge now and then, to help keep you on your life path. We are expected to be scrupulously honest and devoted, and concerned and caring, and we by and large do. Except…occasionally… she paused, looking up at him with eyes filling rapidly with tears. This somehow shocked Mark, and gave him a feeling of abject awe. What might make an angel cry? he wondered, feeling breathless, as the answer suddenly came to him.

You’ve fallen in love with me?! he asked, astounded.

Oh has she ever! the deep voice of God proclaimed, filled with a sense of delight and profound amusement. Selential nodded, wiping at her eyes. Mark found himself able to speak to God, utterly moved.

Does this ever happen?

Seldom, but once and awhile, it comes up. She has asked what no other has had the courage to request…

Or the foolishness to! Selential whispered nervously, interrupting her master.

Selential! Love is never foolish or improper, no matter how much trouble it may cause. You will make many mistakes in the course of all existence, but loving someone will never be counted as one of them!

Yes, my Lord, she answered, head bowed, but smiling delightedly.

Mark was still astounded by the pervasive presence of the Divine force. I gather that what she wants somehow involves me?

Very perceptive! That is why you are present at this moment! Selential has asked me to allow her to become human for a time…to be able to live with you, as a woman, and to be able to touch and interact with you as only a human can. Actually, as only a woman can!

He has said yes, if only you will agree! I could then be with you, in your life, to experience all the wonderful things that are denied me as your guardian. Another will watch over you, the rest of your days! she breathlessly declared, clearly bursting with excitement. Mark could tell she was almost bouncing up and down.

Am I going to go back to my life, or…what?

The Divine voice spoke firmly. That is the question, isn’t it? Had it not been for Selential’s request, which required this discussion, you would already be in another part of my realm, having your end of life chat. Of course, I don’t want you to feel any pressure…you’ve essentially already died, and the bad part is over. Should you choose not to go back, and experience living with Selential, it’s only a small hop over to the place of rest and instruction. I would hold nothing against you.

Will it be hard? What am I getting myself into? Mark suddenly wondered aloud.

Lots of trouble, and many problems; some funny and cute, others terribly conflicting. You will have to teach her how to be human, for even though she has watched over many lives, she has no clue how to actually do many simple things. It will be like raising a large child, who wants to sleep with you like an adult woman. Her innocence will cause you many problems, and much joy, if you let it.

Mark considered this. How old will you make her be? I’m not that young…I wish this had come up twenty years ago, he sighed.

Selential grinned at him. I want to be twenty…maybe a few years older! She looked up, addressing the Creator. Can you help make Mark…if not actually be younger, make him be healthy so he’ll act like he’s my age?

You want him to be able to keep up with your naughty desires? The voice suggested. Selential actually blushed, but did not look down. Of course…it would do me little good otherwise, wouldn’t it? she asked, utterly innocent.

The Divine laughter was loud and bright. Very well, I’ll take care of it, so that you won’t be sad or disappointed. Mark, are you sure you are up to this task?

I have no idea, so there’s no reason to say otherwise…but she seems so cute and full of life. I feel like I would be a fool to pass such a thing up! How many guys get a chance to teach an angel to be a woman?

You’ll be the first. If it turns out reasonably well, I will be more inclined to let someone else try, if it comes up again. You both must remember though, to do what is good and moral. Not everything that seems right is, and not everything you want or are inclined to do will be easy. Or acceptable! Now, I have to send you back, and you are not going to enjoy that! Selential will not arrive until you are over your current crisis.

How will I recognize her? he asked, suddenly panicked.

She will show up, and convince you that she is the one you are expecting…trust me, the voice suggested, amused.

Selential, beaming, teary eyed, thanked God a dozen times, while holding on to Mark’s hand. When she turned to him, she whispered. Thank you! I can’t wait to be with you!

Mark felt himself being pulled down into the darkness, and away from the higher realm. I’ll see you! he called to Selential. Oh! What about my wife?! he tried to call out, but the words disappeared, as he lost awareness.

When he came back from the darkness next, it was to the horrid jolt of electricity, as the medical team tried again to shock him back to life. He vaguely heard someone call out, We’ve got a pulse! before he slide into the normal dark of unconsciousness.

2

The next time Mark awoke, it was to the sound of machines and electronic monitors, whirring and beeping, offering machine testament that he was indeed alive. He lay still, trying to gather himself from the fog of unconsciousness.

I feel like hell, he thought, the deepest of weaknesses plaguing him. What happened? Where am I at? he wondered, struggling to open his eyes. A quick peek nearly blinded him, and the afterimage slowly faded, as he analyzed what he had seen. Hospital? ICU? Car wreck? Heart attack? Nothing seemed to generate any certainty. He struggled to move, and open his eyes.

He’s waking up! he heard the excited and much relieved voice of his wife, Caroline, sigh. Thank God!

God? Why does that make me feel funny? Mark wondered, his memory of his odd experience elsewhere not coming immediately back to him. He managed to turn his head toward the side that the voice had come from. What? he managed to croak.

Mark, honey, just relax…you had a heart attack at work…you almost didn’t…make it. But you’re okay! Try to rest! Caroline whispered softly, tears of relief flowing down her cheeks.

Tell…me, he managed to whisper.

Caroline rummaged in her purse for another tissue, and wiped at her eyes before beginning.

You know how your doctor’s been harping at you to exercise more, and lose weight? Oh, yes…and eat right! You should have listened better! You had a coronary artery almost closed off…and a small clot plugged it completely! You collapsed at work…in the office…thank God…where everybody saw you…they did CPR and called the medics. Y…you got here…and were basically dead…when I got here…your boss called me…and told me where they were taking you…they made me stay out and watch….they shocked you several times! Nothing. I knew you were dead…but …couldn’t accept it. She paused to wipe her eyes and blow her nose, before resuming.

Anyway…they were about to give up…and the ER doctor decided to give it one more try…and your heart started beating again…it was like nothing was wrong! That’s when they took you up to the cath lab, and worked on you…they cleared out three arteries, and the doctor says you should be fine…IF you change your diet and exercise properly! she added, with a small sniff. How do you feel?

Weak…and tired, but…this is crazy…but I feel excited, and I don’t know why.

Excited? Caroline asked, incredulously, after almost dying? Well, I suppose being alive would be better than the alternative…especially if you weren’t too sure where you might end up! she joked. She was shocked to see Mark suddenly tear up. Honey…I’m just teasing! What’s wrong?

It’s not that! I mean…there’s no chance of anyone going to hell…that’s not how it works!

Really? Where did this come from? You’ve never talked about heaven or hell all that much at all! Now…you said that with…absolute certainty! Did you go someplace… while you were un-conscious? Mark looked oddly at her, as if her statement had some strange meaning, which he could not define or understand.

Maybe I did… he whispered, finding the idea strangely comfortable.

Really? Like a near death experience? You don’t remember it? she asked, noting his perplexed look. Mark shook his head slightly.

But you’re excited about something? she said, smiling impishly. Well, I hope He gave you some advice about taking care of yourself better! I’d like to see you argue with God…or ignore Him like you do me! she snipped.

This gave Mark an immediate and strong twinge, yet he could not grasp why. He suddenly felt tired, which Caroline noted.

You need to rest…try and sleep while I go potty and get something to drink! she whispered softly, leaning over his bed and kissing him softly.

Okay… he managed to sigh, slipping into semi-awareness.

In the bathroom, Caroline washed her face and hands, noting how puffy her eyes looked for sitting through the previous afternoon and all night, crying every few minutes, as she waited and worried about Mark. They had been married almost twenty five years, having dated all through her high school and college years. Her parents had been scandalized when she started seeing him, at the innocent age of fourteen, due to the fact that Mark was almost twenty. She had succinctly pointed out that her own parents were eleven years different in age. She was helped in the matter by the fact that Mark had been quite studious and not the least bit inclined to be wild, in fact becoming an accountant, and it was this maturity that attracted her to him.

She had secretly been delighted by the envy her older boyfriend caused all of the other girls at school, and his sophistication made taking him to school functions wickedly fun and enjoyable…at least for Caroline. She acted smug and somewhat snotty when she was teased about getting laid, acting like she had no interest in such uncouth acts. In truth, her mother had given into her begging, and had put her on birth control before she turned fifteen, and she enjoyed a luscious sex life from that point on, much to both her and Mark’s delight.

The only thing that kept them from marrying before she graduated from college was her father, who insisted that she wait, if she wanted him to pay for the wedding. Since she wasn’t lacking for companionship or sex, she graciously conceded, and they were married in the summer after her commencement. Their honeymoon was more of a vacation, and an obeying of the forms, as her father had no idea his daughter hadn’t been a virgin for over seven years, or at least pretended he didn’t. They returned from their trip, and began house hunting, eager to start a family.

Almost twenty five years…and it nearly ended, Caroline sighed, as she walked through the hospital corridors. We’ve raised two kids, and now it’s just us again! she thought, humbled by the magnitude of the loss she had almost suffered. What would I do if I had to start over?

She went to the café, and got a drink, then sat down, eager to call her children, who were both attending college out of state; this explained why they were not with her. Both of them were relieved upon hearing her news, and even more thrilled that they likely would not have to return home to bury their father. The oldest, Kelly, was quite vocal.

Mom! Do you think he’ll listen to you now…about what he eats…or getting in better shape?

I don’t know honey…but he’d better! I think I’d pee on his grave, if he leaves me alone, just by being stubborn! And I intend to tell him too!

Tell him I will too! I’m not ready to do without my dad…not for a long time…and neither is Lisa! Kelly added, laughing as she referred to her younger sister, who was also her roommate.

I think something…happened to your father…while he was…out of it. She explained what Mark had said about hell, and her comment about having a near death experience.

Oh, mom…that would be so cool…dad won’t want to argue with that!

I just hope God didn’t tell him to sell the house and go off preaching! What would I do then? Caroline said.

Mom…have you ever watched any shows…or read any books on NDEs…near death experiences?

Maybe…why?

People have some really profound affects sometimes…it changes them…usually for the better…but… Kelly

suggested, hesitant to upset her mother by saying to much.

Caroline chuckled at this. I’d be happy if he just had more interest in my bottom! she whispered into the phone.

Mom! Are you…you mean…you guys don’t…

Caroline sighed heavily. Honey…enjoy it while you’re young…it slows down as the years go by…a lot more than you want it to!

When Caroline returned to Mark’s room, and sat, quietly watching him sleep, alert to the least change of his heart rhythm on the monitors, she continued to think about her comment to her daughter.

We did it all the time when we were young! Even when the kids were little, we couldn’t wait to have a fuck when the girls were taking a nap, or were in bed. Then, somewhere, once a day became once a week, and then once a month. And we just let that happen! Why? When we do have sex, it’s even better than it was when we were teenagers! Why don’t we make an effort? Mark needs more exercise…he can just screw my naughty, eager ass! she decided, smiling wickedly at the prospect. After all, I’m positive he doesn’t have a mistress, and isn’t getting any someplace else. We need to take care of each other…even if we have to put it on the chore list! she sighed.

A nurse came in, to check on Mark, and evaluate his condition, and her activity woke him. He seemed disoriented at first.

Selential? he whispered. This puzzled Caroline.

Who or what is Selential? she asked, standing and stepping close, where she could touch Mark.

He turned to her, frowning, but replied, An angel…mine…guardian…I…met her… he seemed overwhelmed by his own comments. Caroline’s mouth had dropped open.

What…did she look like? she managed to whisper.

Mark’s eyes seemed to suddenly fill with tears. Beautiful…she…had…golden hair…and the cutest face! He seemed hesitant to speak, whether unsure of his memory or reluctant to tell Caroline how beautiful he had found the angel to be. Caroline was un-nerved by this news.

You really did…have… she hesitated to voice her thoughts.

Yeah…I did…I can’t remember all of it…but I…agreed to do something… Mark whispered.

And you don’t know what? Caroline asked, nervous, and wishing she had more knowledge of NDEs, and what other people had experienced. Mark shook his head.

Honey…don’t be afraid…I don’t think God would have you do anything evil or wicked. I’m sure everything will be alright! she said, more to calm her own nerves than to calm Mark’s. What had he experienced? What had God requested of her husband, and how would that seem? Was it a real experience, or only a sort of dream? If it seemed real enough to Mark, could he do something crazy, which would turn their lives upside down? What would she do…or could she do? Kelly had suggested that people experiencing NDEs were profoundly changed by them.

Great! That’s all I need…he didn’t die…but what if…he wants to do something crazy…thinking God wants him to? Then what? Caroline wondered, wondering why this had come into her life now, when she was looking forward to them having a peaceful time together.

God does strange things, for His own reasons, she thought suddenly, we have to figure them out, and find the faith to accept them. Now why does thinking that make me want to wet my pants? she wondered, suddenly nervous and unsure.

3

Mark awoke the next day, when they brought him his breakfast. Puzzled at first, he finally managed to nod at the person raising his bed, and slipping his tray table up close.

You eat up! You okay? the worker asked, concerned at Mark’s blank look. He managed to wave and mumble the word, Sure.

In truth, he was much less than sure, having woken from a long and odd dream that seemed filled with images of some divine place, and the beautiful visage of the angel, who called herself Selential. His guardian angel.

I really have one? he thought, shaking his head slightly, bemused by the idea. What had the angel said…she was with me every moment from the time I was born…never more than…oh my…she saw…everything? Even the things I did in bed with Caroline? He felt his face grow warm, the idea that he had been observed so intimately unnerving him. The idea of a divine being watching him sitting on the john, or scratching his bare butt seemed somehow obscene, or scandalous. I suppose…it says God sees everything…I guess that extends to his helpers too?!

Mark shrugged, and took a peek at his food, which looked quite healthy, and about as appetizing as cardboard.

What good is it being healthy, and living longer, if I have to eat crap?! he thought, disgruntled. He was certain his wife would be pleased by the fare; she had been harping for years at him about his poor eating habits. How are steak and pizza bad? he wondered. It’s not like I don’t eat other things! How many vegetables can a grown man eat, anyway? he thought, annoyed by the whole topic. I’m going to regret not dying, aren’t I! he peevishly added, as he chewed on a whole grain muffin and poked his plain scrambled eggs with his fork.

When Caroline arrived she noted that Mark’s tray was mostly empty, picked reasonable clean.

How was breakfast? she asked, grinning slightly. Mark gave her a baleful look, and shook his head.

I’m sure you’d have been proud of it! he sighed.

Honey! Don’t be mean…you know you need to be eating a lot better! God didn’t let you die; there must be a reason! You can’t very well do what He wants if you aren’t healthy, can you? she sweetly asked, deciding to try and use Mark’s odd experience as a way to at least motivate him. She was not prepared for his reply.

I agreed to teach an angel to be a woman…my guardian is in love with me…wants to have a relationship… you know… he awkwardly fell silent, noticing that Caroline was sitting, staring at him with her mouth open, utterly shocked. God will make her into a woman, and I have to…ah…

Sleep with her?! Caroline managed to whisper, still too shocked to scream, even though she wanted to. Mark nodded, looking guilty and uncomfortable.

You agreed to that?! Really? Just like that?! What about me!? she demanded, a harsh tone entering into her voice.

Uh…I ah…honestly didn’t think about you! he sighed. I was sorta overwhelmed by listening to God…and seeing Selential…she…she…you see…angels are so…I mean…they’d almost glow in the dark! I’ve never seen anything so incredible!

She’s that beautiful? Caroline asked, her voice tinged with a budding jealousy.

N…not like a girl! Angels aren’t male of female! Their appearance is…human…somewhat elvish…I think… and they’re kinda feminine. That makes them quite strikingly beautiful, but they aren’t…you know…either sex. he said, struggling to explain and get himself out of the fix he was in with his wife.

"But you called her she!" Caroline insisted, arms crossed and looking ready to fight or cry. Mark shrugged, sighing heavily.

I know…it’s just hard to call an angel an it! Selential wants to be a woman because I’m a man…at least at the moment. If I was a woman in this life, she’d…he’d…want to be a man!

And I’m supposed to believe that God would let this happen? Just like that…my husband takes on another woman?! Doesn’t that seem a bit crazy to you? his wife demanded. Mark shrugged.

It’s the only reason I’m here. If Selential hadn’t asked what she did, or if I had refused, you’d be planning my funeral…I wasn’t coming back from my heart attack otherwise! Mark advised her gently.

That might not be much different…would it! she loudly yelled, leaping up, and running from the room, crying fully.

Mark lay still, with his eyes closed, trying to will himself to be calm. What did God say? Lots of problems? That might be an understatement if there ever was one! he thought miserably. Why didn’t I remember Caroline? How would anyone…even God…expect her to not be upset? he wondered, considering what he was up against. I’ve never cheated on her…never even given her the least reason to suspect me. Now this! Now what do I do? I promised God! How do you Welch on that? He was still for a time, considering if he might just take a nap, when Caroline’s voice intruded.

When did this come to you…about…what’s her name coming to be with you?! his wife’s voice insisted. She sounded like she was trying quite hard to be calm and reasonable, with only a few small sniffles to display that she had cried hard.

Last night…in and among my dreams. I think most of it has come back to me.

Including what she looks like? Caroline whispered.

And also what God’s realm looks like…it’s quite amazing! I was taken to a very spectacular garden, where He spoke to us! Mark turned his face towards Caroline, and opened his eyes. I’m not afraid anymore…of dying…or of what God might do to me. He’s quite nice and very reasonable! And there’s no hell as such…that’s a relief! he informed her.

I’m not so sure about that! she snipped at him. Taking my husband away isn’t my idea of Heaven…that’s for sure! she declared, wiping at her eyes more.

That’s where you’re wrong! I’m not going anywhere! I just…have someone else to help…to…teach…to love…but you do too! Caroline looked like she might pass out.

You expect me to what…just invite her into my life? My…bed? Are you crazy!?! she demanded. Mark shrugged.

I hope not…but then…I don’t think God is either. He has to know you’re part of my life! So, it makes perfect sense that He knows someway for this to make sense and work out! Caroline…honey…look; He told me and Selential that we had to do what was right…always. But He also said if we did what He expected, there would be much joy and love too. We just have to trust Him, and work to figure it out! He never said I was to leave you or stop loving you!

Well I don’t see how you can expect me to just scoot over and let some slutty young one into our lives! At least I have some standards and some decency! Mark shrugged.

All you need to be concerned with is having some love…that seems to be what He most wants to see. He’s going out of His way to let Selential have a chance to be a woman, and to be able to be with me…to love me. That must mean it’s important! And, He’s letting me still be here too. I’m certainly grateful for that, even if you have doubts! he added, hurt that she seemed unwilling to focus on this.

I don’t know what I’m grateful for…or if I’m grateful! she sighed, looking harshly at her husband.

You act like I’ve cheated on you! he accused her.

You’ve already agreed to! Knowing you will is even more cruel than just finding out you already did! she informed him viciously.

Later that day, when Caroline spoke to her daughter Kelly, she informed her of her father’s latest revelations. Kelly was speechless for several moments.

Oh, shit! Mom! That’s…crazy! Wow! she managed to finally gasp.

But is it true? Or is it…I don’t know…just some sort of…dream? He seems so convinced that it was all real! Caroline sighed, hoping her daughter would somehow refute this odd and sinister idea. Kelly had other thoughts.

Mom…it’s exactly the sort of thing God would do! When He decides to shake up your butt, you get the complete overhaul! Does dad seem…changed? she asked quietly. Caroline was silent for a minute, thinking. Finally she spoke.

Yes…there’s something much more…deep about him. When he talks about God and all this stuff…he seems so sure! He was never like that before!

How jealous does it make you…the idea of dad…you know…sleeping with another woman? Caroline could only manage to sputter. Okay…you’re really jealous! Even if God is telling you to do so? Kelly wondered.

He didn’t talk to me about this! she loudly roared.

Maybe because He didn’t want to have to paddle you for being foolish and small? Kelly suggested. This outraged her mother even worse, as she had expected it to. Mom! Since when does God bow to you…or anyone else? If He thinks this is good…then there’s a reason why it is! Your job is to figure that out! Kelly insisted.

But I don’t want to! I was perfectly happy with my husband and my life as we were! I don’t need all this upheaval and stress! We deserve some peace and quiet…and a chance to be alone again…just us! Caroline retorted. When she wound down, Kelly replied.

If what dad says is true is, then you were in line to start over as a widow! His agreeing is all that’s given you two any chance to go on…right? Caroline felt as though she’d been slapped, and began to cry.

Mom! I’m not trying to hurt you! But it’s true! Look…there has to be a reason why this makes sense, and is both good and moral…nothing God does is otherwise… right? Kelly asked, wanting to calm her mother.

I don’t know…I suppose… Caroline sighed, picking at her top’s buttons.

Well, then it’s really pretty simple…you just need to be patient, and wait for the new one to show up. Then you have to be nice, and do your best to help her… Kelly suddenly stopped, shocked at her thought. Mom! Imagine what it’s going to be like for an angel to have to figure out how to be human! Watching people do things is a lot different than actually doing them yourself!

I suppose. How will I even be able to tell if the girl is a former angel, and not just some slut, out to con us? Caroline thought to ask. Kelly rolled her eyes, thankful that her mother couldn’t see her expression.

She’s supposed to be dad’s guardian angel…right? Then it…she…will have been present all the times you and dad did naughty things…just ask her what all you did…especially any kinky things! If it’s his real guardian, she’ll be able to tell you! Kelly excitedly advised her mother. There was a lengthy silence, and Kelly whispered, Mom? Mom…are you there? She finally heard Caroline moan rather forlornly.

Everything? Oh my God! They watch what we do…in bed?

Well sure…and in the potty too. It says God sees all things, and that obviously applies to His guardians too! You really never considered that? Kelly asked, surprised and grinning.

4

Mark endured two more days in the hospital, more due to his having good insurance, than to his needing longer care. By his second day he was much less tired, and felt much better, which surprised him more than anyone else.

I wonder if God is working on me? He promised Selential that He’d make me able to keep up with her urges, and He has to know how bad off I’ve been! he thought, the idea that he might be the recipient of Divine assistance a new and daunting idea. I’ve lived a long time, ignorant and happy, thinking I was on my own! What’s it going to be like, no longer being able to pretend that God isn’t paying attention to me, or to what I do? he wondered, finding the whole concept scary, but also strangely comforting.

It took him several minutes to arrive at why. I’m not alone anymore! Well, actually, I never was…I just didn’t realize it! Actually…I never wanted to really accept it…or believe that God was paying attention. Life will look a lot different, if I can’t forget that! he thought, and sighed heavily.

Caroline had apparently decided to pretend that the issue of Mark’s guardian wasn’t wise to mention, so if he wasn’t inclined to bring it up, neither did she. She focused her efforts on talking about Mark’s new dietary needs, bringing in cookbooks that touted a much healthier fare, wanting to get him committed to his new and better diet while he was captive. Mark found her actions cute and amusing, and also understood exactly what she was doing regarding Selential. Still, he let her enjoy two days without saying anymore, before he again broached the subject.

Have you told the girls about my experience? he asked, after lunch.

Caroline felt a sharp twinge, but kept her eyes focused on her cookbooks as she answered.

I told them you had a…NDE…that’s what it’s called. They thought that was…interesting,