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Book 3: With You Always

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Chapter Ten: The Party

 

“That wrapping is spectacular!”

“The balloons are a bit flat on one side.”

“Oh, brother! I got these garlands tangled!”

“Where’s the frosting? I know I left it on the kitchen counter. . .”

It was Liloy’s birthday, and Cloudy and her family and friends were putting on the final touches for the party. Liloy was due to arrive any minute now, and they were barely halfway done with the little jobs.

“Whoa! What the? Help!” hollered Sniper, struggling and wriggling to free himself from a tangled mess of balloon strings. “Get me out!”

“Okay. Hold still, Wiggly the Worm,” teased Cloudy. She took hold of an intractable piece of string in her mouth and tugged at it, untying the knot which held her brother captive. He shook the strings off his body and smiled his thanks. She flashed a grin at him and walked back to her place beside her mother, who was squeezing swirls of white frosting from a toothpaste-shaped tube onto the three-layer chocolate cake.

For a minute or two, no noise was heard except the rustling of the bushes’ leaves and the tinkling of the colorful bronze tassels dangling from the unicorn piñata. Then Sniper, who was playing lookout at the corner of the house, waved his paw wildly and hissed out, “They’re coming! They’re coming! Hurry and hide!” They all scrambled to conceal themselves from view and succeeded just as Liloy and Meta Knight stepped under the ivy-covered overhead trellis and into the garden.

Liloy paused a moment to savor the scene. Ten pastel-hued balloons were tied to the sandalwood picnic table, on which sat several presents shrouded in flashy wrapping paper. On a separate table, a marvelous cake of beautiful craftsmanship sat proudly on a silver dish. Beside the cake was a stack of china dishes and silverware. The piñata, hoisted from a branch in an old oak tree, swayed in the frequent gusts of wind. Various chairs and logs were placed in a ring around a crackling bonfire. A guitar leaned against one of the chairs.

“Guys?” prompted Liloy a little nervously. “Where are you?”

Liloy nearly jumped out of her skin when Sniper swung down from a rope attached to the top of the drainpipe and shouted in her ear: “Happy Birthday!”

“Yike!” Liloy cried, whirling to face him as he stood there grinning at her. “S-Sniper!”

“Gotcha!” Sniper fell back on the ground, kicking his legs and laughing hysterically. Liloy glared down at him, trying to appear stern, but she couldn’t help herself. She began to laugh too.

“Happy Birthday!” Cloudy and Star hollered as they leaped out from behind a patch of tall sunflowers.

Sniper’s brothers appeared from beneath the swing set.

Springtime and Showerstorm popped out from underneath the picnic table.

Miriam and her friends jumped out from behind the oak tree.

Scazzarda, Meredith, and Leo stepped out of the garden shed.

Together they gathered around Liloy and began congratulating her and wishing her many years of life and happiness. Liloy’s lively eyes danced with rapture and enlightenment as she hugged each of her friends and thanked them.

“Wow,” Liloy said, gazing at the garden. “You all did a wonderful job fixing up this party for me!”

“It took quite a while,” said Cloudy mildly, “but we managed to finish it in time.”

“Barely,” Sniper whispered to Yodi.

“Well, it’s fantastic!” Liloy complimented them. She smiled a little sadly as she again took in the beautiful sight. “I just wish Tilry could be here.”

Cloudy wished the subject of Tilry wouldn’t be brought up. She had practically forgotten about him in anticipation of this glorious, long-awaited day. Now a feeling of shame and sorrow swept over her as she recalled yesterday. She didn’t want the fact of Tilry’s absence to ruin the day. So how else could she make Liloy feel better?

“Um, hey, everyone?” Cloudy said in a too-bright tone. “We should really get this party started, don’t you think?”

Liloy seemed relieved at the change in topic. “Yeah. We should.” She turned toward the others, pasting a happy smile on her face and attempting to appear joyful. “Well?”

Scazzarda and Leo glanced at each other and gave imperceptible nods.

“All right!” Sniper shouted.

They all tramped over to the table on which sat the cake. Seventeen candles were positioned atop the rich delicacy. Liloy laughed at how tall the cake was. “You must have used a huge oven for this!” she giggled.

“Only the best for our friend,” Cloudy replied, smiling brightly.

Liloy looked down at Cloudy and grinned. “And whose idea was it to put my face on the side of the cake?”

“Mine,” Cloudy answered, beaming with pride. “I figured it would be a nice touch. After all, it is your birthday. . .and your cake.”

“Maybe we should trying doing that for Father’s birthday,” Liloy joked, “which, by the way, Cloudy, is two days after yours.”

“Whoa! Really?” Sniper stared at Meta Knight in surprise. “So cool!”

“Yes, it is. But anyway,” Springtime broke in, “we should be singing ‘Happy Birthday’ to Liloy right about now, should we not? Everyone ready? A one and a two and a three and a four. . .”

“Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday, dear Liloy!
Happy Birthday to you!”

“Thank you all so much,” Liloy said when the song was finished. “You were all in perfect harmony.”

“Yeah?” Leo cleared his throat and pretended to look solemn. “Well, you’re fixing to hear our perfect voices again later today, because we’re going to be singing around the fire together.”

“Oh, how exciting!” Liloy said happily. “I love singing. In fact, when I was in fifth grade, I won fist place in a singing contest hosted by our school.”

“What song did you sing?” Cloudy questioned.

“Um, I don’t recall,” Liloy admitted, scratching her head. “But I do know I won. I still have the trophy somewhere in our attic.”

“Neat! Then how about you lead the singing tonight?” Cloudy asked.

Liloy was taken aback for a moment at such a suggestion. “Oh, no, I couldn’t possibly!” she protested. “My-My voice isn’t that good anymore. Besides, I haven’t sung in at least two years or so.”

“Nonsense!” Star exclaimed. “I bet your voice is wonderful.” She gave Liloy a pleading look. “Oh, please lead the singing!”

Liloy seemed unconvinced. “I don’t know. . .”

“Please?” Star asked in a small voice.

Liloy sighed and swished her cape. “I don’t know if I’ll be able to do this without caterwauling or shattering your eardrums, but. . .okay. I’ll do it.”

Cloudy frowned. Why does Liloy think she’s a bad singer? she wondered, staring at her friend. That’s very odd. For a girl who won first place in a singing contest, she sure doesn’t act confident in her talent to sing. Perhaps it’s because of the recent events she’s gone through? Maybe she just needs a little encouragement, is all.

After the cake was devoured, Springtime declared it was time for presents.

“Wow!” Liloy gasped, seeing the tower of gifts. “How many trucks did it take to load all of these?!”

The children broke up at the witty question and the adults seemed faintly amused. Meta Knight, on the other hand, didn’t laugh or smile. He stood a little ways back from the group, silently observing the scene that was about to unfold before him.

Liloy took the first box handed her by Scazzarda and gingerly began tearing the hand-painted paper. Inside was a wooden carving of a prancing horse. Liloy knew who had created this masterpiece. No one else but Leo could have done such a thing. She smiled up at him. “Thank you, Leo.”

“You’re welcome,” Leo responded.

Liloy accepted the second package and carefully opened it. Inside was a handmade purse with fluffy purple tassels. She squinted at the gift, as if trying to place who had given it to her. Then her yellow eyes lit up. “Grandmother, you made this!” she exclaimed, looking up at Scazzarda.

“Who, me?” Scazzarda asked innocently. “Now, why on earth would you think it was me, of all people?”

Cloudy and her siblings erupted into laughter.

“Because you have a purse similar to this one,” Liloy pointed out, “and you designed that one yourself.”

Cloudy smothered a grin. “She’s got you there, Miss Scazzarda.”

Scazzarda chuckled and shook her head. “Of course she has.”

Liloy opened the next one, which was from Meredith. It was a beautiful charm bracelet with the verse John 3:16 painted on it. She slipped the bracelet onto her wrist and held it to the winter sunlight, admiring it. “Meredith, this is lovely,” she complimented her. “Did you make this?”

“Yes, I did,” Meredith answered. “I sometimes make handmade jewelry and sell it online. That’s my hobby.”

The rest of the gifts were exquisite—minus the dead cockroach Sniper gave her—and Liloy said so. She was pleased by the presents, but even more pleased by her friends’ generous hearts. “Even if the present is a roach,” she laughed.

Cloudy frowned slightly as she gazed at the pile of gifts lying at Liloy’s feet. “But wait,” she said. “We’re missing someone, aren’t we? Meta Knight didn’t give you a gift.”

“Did he forget?” Sniper asked sarcastically. “Or does he just not care?”

Cloudy gave her brother a withering look. “Meta Knight not caring about Liloy is about as likely as you ever growing up and acting your age,” she shot back.

Star giggled. Sniper looked insulted, but kept quiet.

“I did not forget you, Liloy,” Meta Knight spoke, walking to the front of the group and letting himself out of his cape. In his hand was clutched a few pieces of paper. Cloudy crinkled her brow in puzzlement. What kind of gift was paper? Still, she figured Meta Knight had his reasons.

Meta Knight extended the papers to his daughter and she hesitantly took them, unsure of what was written on the smooth sheets. She unfolded the papers, her eyes scanning the pages as she silently read through each one. Meta Knight lowered his head and released a low, shaky breath. Cloudy stood where she was, waiting, watching, feeling that something was going to happen. But she wasn’t sure what.

After a time, Liloy raised her head from the papers and glanced around at her silent friends. “What is it?” Cloudy asked quietly.

Liloy sighed and a sad smile formed on her lips. “This is a letter from Father to me. And. . .I would like to read it to you.”

Springtime and Showerstorm exchanged wondering looks. Cloudy curled up on the grass, prepared to listen.

Liloy smoothed out the sheets and cleared her throat, then began reading aloud the letter:

 

“My dearest Liloy,
I am writing this to you to express my feelings about you and your growth, physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. My daughter, you are indeed different from most in the world today. You serve your God and submit to His will, and you love as you say He loves. You are kind, loving, beautiful, sweet, and empathetic.
When you became my daughter, I wanted you to have a life unlike and much better than mine. My life was filled with much trauma and horror, and I wanted you to feel loved and safe. But when your mother left, I felt like I was falling apart. I was left to raise you and your brother on my own, and I was determined to do so. But every night for the first year after your mother left, I couldn’t sleep and struggled with insomnia. I was afraid I was going to screw you up, and when your brother began to stray away and do questionable things, I was scared to death. I blamed myself for his wandering and drinking. But the only thing that gave me courage was your unshakable faith. You never once doubted. You never once asked why your brother strayed onto the wrong path. You remained faithful to your God. You possessed peace I did not.
After your marriage and Tilry’s diagnosis, the pangs of fear I felt from time to time occurred less and less, but became stronger and stronger. I  was worried something was going to go terribly wrong with you or Tilry like it had with Gregory, and I did not want a repeat of your brother’s straying. But your faithfulness to your God and everything you held dear assured me you were not going anywhere.
But as of recent events. . .
When you were abducted by Joseph, I was terrified for your safety. I didn’t know what was happening to me or why. I was breaking under the weight of the pressure I was under, and no one could truly see how much I was close to giving up—except for Cloudy. She is a priceless treasure of hope and love. Her faith beams bright in this dark, evil world, as does yours, my daughter.
No one could describe the relief I felt when you were found and rescued. But at the same time, no one could describe the stress and sadness I felt. Actually, stress and sadness doesn’t even begin to define how I felt. It was worse, far worse, but your faith and Cloudy’s love and kindness made me feel better and showed me I didn’t always have to suppress how I felt.
My daughter, there are no words to tell you how much I love you and appreciate you. But you mean the world to me. I could never stress or make you fully comprehend my undying love for you. You are one-of-a-kind and I would never trade you for any other daughter in the world.
I love you, Liloy.
Your father,
Magnus Stellarum.”

 

Cloudy felt as though she had been slapped across the head with a club; she was that stunned. Meredith was wiping tears from her eyes and Springtime was looking at Liloy with a smile. Leo was holding Miriam in his arms, tears streaming down his face. The children’s face showed solemnity and bewilderment.

Liloy raised her head and gazed at her father, who was looking away from her. He wrapped his cape around himself with shaking hands. Liloy continued to look at him, love in her eyes. Cloudy found the silence increasingly awkward and wished with all her heart that someone would say something—anything!

At length, the knight finally spoke. “Liloy, I didn’t. . .” he began, but Liloy put a finger to her lips, shushing him.

“Don’t say anything,” she told him in a gentle voice. “I know exactly what you’re going to say, and it’s not true. This means so much more to me than all of these other gifts combined, and I’m not going to pretend the letter means less. It’s a beautiful gift, Father, and you are a wonderful parent to me. I wish I could tell you how much I love you, but there are no words to tell you, Father.” She reached out and grasped his trembling hands, smiling at him, tears in her eyes. “You are indeed someone every special to me, Father.”

Meta Knight couldn’t say anything; he was too overwhelmed. Instead he embraced his daughter tightly, feeling happier than he had in days. The others began to applaud, their faces shining with pure joy. Cloudy barked, backflipped twice, and released a howl of excitement.

“Truly the Lord’s at work here!” Star murmured under her breath. “There’s a change in the air. . .I just know it.”

Liloy and her father separated from their embrace, still holding each other’s hands, smiling softly at one another. Cloudy grinned at the two and yipped, directing their attention toward her. “Cloudburst, what is it?” Meta Knight asked.

“Come on, you two!” cried Cloudy, doing a rough-and-tumble. “What are you waiting for? It’s party time!”

Liloy laughed. “You’re right, Cloudy! It is indeed party time!” She tugged at her father’s hand. “Let’s go see what’s next, Father.”

It turned out that next was games. First up was Charades. Cloudy was picked to act out the first charade. She smiled as she gazed at the oak tree, the piñata swinging from the lowermost branch. She knew exactly which charade to act.

Cloudy began by gesturing to the sky and pretending someone was speaking to her from above. Then she followed by pretending to swing an axe and chop wood, then building what appeared to be a boat. Then she made wave-like motions beating against the imaginary boat and rain coming down in great sheets.

“I know! I know!” Star cried, dancing about eagerly.

“Yes?” Cloudy prompted.

“Noah’s ark!” cried Star, letting out a howl of triumph.

“Yeah! Good job!” Cloudy high-pawed her older sister.

After a few more charades, Tag was next. Cloudy won hands down. No matter who was chasing her, she could always avoid being touched by him. No one could figure out how she managed to dodge being tapped, but she did nonetheless.

The next game was the Sack Race. The kids split into two teams and each stepped into a gunnysack and lined up at the marked starting line. When Liloy called out the signal to go, the teams hopped to get to the finish line first, most ending up sprawled out flat on the grass. The adults were laughing hysterically at the children’s comical accidents and spills. Zach crossed the finish line first. Eloise was a close second, and Miriam was third.

The third game was Hide and Seek. Cloudy was the only one out of all the children not to be found, and everyone was confused about where she was until she crawled from below the garden shed. Then embarrassment loomed.

Then came the time to whack open the piñata. Liloy was first to try. She blindfolded and handed the club, and wham! she smacked her target head-on. Candy spilled all over the ground and the children scrambled to collect as much as they could. Liloy giggled at their excited cries of delight and the argument that ensued between Sniper and Waffle over who had the most candy.

All this furor continued past late afternoon and until the sun began to set. Then Springtime called the others to the bonfire. A few drained children flopped into the chairs. Liloy and Meta Knight seated themselves together on a log while Leo took up his guitar and sat across from the birthday girl and her father. Cloudy sighed with delight as she curled up by Scazzarda, who was stoking the dying embers with a thin metal rod.

Leo tuned up his guitar and smiled at Liloy. “What song would you like to sing tonight?”

Liloy looked into the fire and grinned. “‘Who Else’, by Liliya Chekh. I love that song.”

Cloudy smiled as she realized she recognized the song, though she had never heard Chekh’s version of it. She was curious to know how it went.

“Sure. Whatever you desire.” Leo tried a few chords until he reached one that was satisfactory. “Okay, are you ready?”

Liloy took Meta Knight’s hand. “Yes.”

Leo began playing the soft but powerful tune and Liloy began to sing, her voice melding with the thrums of the guitar strings.

 

“I am an instrument of exaltation,
And I was born to lift
Your Name above all Names.
You hear the melody
Of all creation,
But I have songs of praise
Not even angels sing.

Who else is worthy?
Who else is worthy?
There is no one;
Only You, Jesus.
Who else is worthy?
Who else is worthy?
There is no one;
Only You, Jesus.”

 

Leo nodded toward the girls, motioning for them to join in the singing. They gladly obliged.

“You are the infinite God of the ages,
Yet You chose to make
My heart Your dwelling place.
You healed my brokenness,
Showed me Your glory;
So I have songs of thanks
Not even angels sing.

Who else is worthy?
Who else is worthy?
There is no one;
Only You, Jesus.
Who else is worthy?
Who else is worthy?
There is no one;
Only You, Jesus.
Who else is worthy?
Who else is worthy?
There is no one;
Only You, Jesus.
Who else is worthy?
Who else is worthy?
There is no one;
Only You, Jesus.”

 

As Cloudy sang, she felt a deep peace bubble up inside of her and spread throughout her body. She smiled, her fangs glowing orange in the flickering, dancing tongues of flame, her emerald eyes reflecting the heated glow of the embers. They were almost to the bridge, which was one of Cloudy’s favorite parts.

“Lamb of God, anointed One,
Who was and is and is to come,
Seated on the throne above;
Holy, holy!
Righteous One Who shed His blood;
You proved to us the Father’s love.
Jesus Christ, be lifted up!
Holy, holy!
Lamb of God, anointed One,
Who was and is and is to come!
Oh, ohhh!
You are and You are
Righteous one Who shed His blood
You proved to us the Father’s love.
Jesus Christ, be lifted up!”

 

“Take it away, children!” Liloy called.

 

“Who else is worthy?
Who else is worthy?
There is no one;
Only You, Jesus.
Who else is worthy?
Who else is worthy?
There is no one,
It’s only You, Jesus.

There is no one;
It’s only You, Jesus.”

 

There was a slight pause and then everyone camped round the fire, including Meta Knight himself, completed the outro:

 

“There is no one;
It’s only You, Jesus.”

Cloudy felt a bittersweet crest of happiness sail over her, burying her in mixed feelings of bliss and sorrow. For she knew that this had been a completely wonderful day, and she would remember it for always and replay it over and over again in her mind. But tomorrow Miriam would be gone, off to live in Prism Plains, and she would never come back here to live. And that was by far the blackest part of the entire day.

_____________________

Note: “Who Else” in Liliya Chekh’s version was written and sung by Liliya Chekh. All credit for this song goes to her.

Books

Book 3: With You Always

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Chapter Nine: A Serious Conversation

 

Cloudy sat in the waiting room of Oromo Thuli Hospital with Liloy, waiting for news of Meta Knight, Derek, and Miriam. Her mind flipped back through the pages of the events that had taken place over the last few days. First the moving announcement from Miriam; then Joseph driving through Spring Breeze and abducting Liloy and Miriam; then the search-and-rescue mission; Joe and Sam’s arrest and Derek’s joining forces with Meta Knight and Cloudy; Derek’s running off and the bomb explosion; Joseph cornering them and Derek’s injury; and their miraculous escape. Cloudy knew she would never want to experience anything that frightening ever again. Unfortunately, this wouldn’t be the last time she would go through something truly terrifying. As she later came to realize, her entire life practically revolved around danger.

Just then, the nurse opened the waiting room door and smiled kindly at the two girls. Cloudy rose to her feet. “How are they?” she inquired.

“They’re just fine,” the nurse said. Cloudy and Liloy heaved collective sighs of relief. “Miriam and the knight can go home tomorrow, but they’ll have to take it easy the first few days.”

“And Derek?” Liloy asked.

The nurse’s smile slipped a notch. “Well, he was injured a lot worse than supposed. He may be here a few days, possibly a week. The knife split his forehead nearly to the brain. It’s a pretty bad wound. Had the blade actually hit his brain, the wound would have been fatal.”

Cloudy bit her lip and swiveled her head around to glance up at Liloy. The older woman glanced down at Cloudy with a mixture of sorrow and indecision in her eyes. Then Cloudy turned back to the nurse. “May we see our friends?”

“Certainly,” the nurse agreed, holding open the door for them. “The knight and Miriam are hanging out in Tilry’s room—Room 416. Derek’s two rooms down from them.”

“Thanks,” answered Cloudy, her tone sincere. She rushed past the nurse and trotted to the elevator. As soon as she and Liloy were inside, Liloy pressed the button for the fourth floor. Cloudy stayed perfectly still as the elevator began to rise, enjoying the funny feeling of the ascent. When the doors slid open, they stepped out and began strolling leisurely down the hallway. Cloudy studied each room number as they passed by, looking for the correct one. “Here we are,” she said finally, halting in front of a varnished door. “Room 416.”

Liloy took a deep breath and softly rapped on the door. From within answered a weak voice, “Come in!”

Liloy turned the brass knob, pushed open the wooden door, and marched inside, Cloudy following suit. Tilry was sitting up in bed, Meta Knight seated in a chair beside him. Tilry’s dull eyes brightened with joy when he saw his wife. “Liloy!” he whispered, his voice trembling.

Liloy merely grinned, her face glowing radiant with happiness and overwhelming joy. She felt like crying but knew that would in no way suit this wonderful occasion of being reunited with her loved ones. “Hello, Tilry.” She walked over to him and sat on the edge of the bed.

“Cloudy!” cheered Miriam. She jumped up from the corner where she had been sitting and hugged her best friend. Cloudy noticed Miriam’s arm was swaddled in a clean white bandage that started at the wrist, extended past the elbow, and ended just a few inches below the shoulder.

“How are you feeling?” asked Cloudy.

Miriam smiled grimly. “Okay, I guess—except I’m a little sore from my gunshot wound.” She gave a low, hollow laugh. Then her grimness was replaced by a sincere smile of joy. “Actually, I’m especially feeling wonderful now that I’m back among those whom I know I can actually trust.” She cast a knowing look over her shoulder at Meta Knight, who imperceptibly nodded at her to show he understood.

“Oh, I’m so glad you and Sir Meta Knight showed up and saved us!” Miriam exclaimed, heaving a long sigh of deep, intimate relief. “I don’t think I could have spent another minute in that cold, stuffy prison. If I had, I would have screamed my head off.”

Cloudy had to giggle at the thought. Instantly she became sober. “In all seriousness, I’m glad we rescued you when we did,” she spoke. “Otherwise, you probably would have died.”

“Yeah,” nodded Miriam, her face becoming grave.

There resounded another knock on the door and Miriam went to answer it. A few seconds later, Cloudy heard her shriek with excitement and in rushed Nika and Eloise, their arms around Miriam. All three were hopping up and down and chattering endlessly and squealing with intense delight. Eloise spotted Cloudy and ran over to her, wrapping her arms around the puppy’s neck and hugging her. Cloudy’s oxygen supply was nearly cut off, but she managed to smile and greet her friend, “Hi, Eloise!”

And at that moment, who should enter but Zach! Arrow was beside him. “Hello, everyone!” Arrow joyfully called. When his eyes landed on Cloudy, a broad grin spread across his face and he leaped over to her in three bounds and, oblivious to the others watching, embraced her with all of his strength.

“Don’t forget me!” Lily cried, leaping into the room and landing squarely on all fours, her tail wagging at top speed.

“Lily!” Cloudy exclaimed.

“Cloudy!” responded Lily.

Then in walked Leo, Meredith, and Scazzarda! They stopped short in the doorway and stared incredulously at the vast array of children jumping and swinging around and chatting all at once, laughing and squealing alternately. Liloy caught her grandmother’s eye and made a gesture of joy with her fingers, the faintest smile on her lips.

Scazzarda chuckled. “I take it they’re all glad to be back together?”

“Right,” Liloy replied.

“Okay, kids, settle down!” Meredith called out gently. The children cut their merrymaking and gazed at her with wide solemn eyes filled with respect. Meredith gently shut the door and sat down daintily in an upholstered chair, motioning for them to sit or stand quietly. When everyone was settled, she said, “Now Cloudy, why don’t you tell us about your—uh —adventure with Joseph?”

When Meredith made that request, it was as if the sun hid behind the clouds. Cloudy’s excited, enthusiastic expression she had been wearing with her friends gave way to a tight, angry look. She made a face of disgust and loathing. “I don’t want to talk about it,” she answered in a half-despondent, half-angry tone, her emerald eyes flashing. “I hated every minute of it—the fear and horror we endured, the bomb explosion, and Joseph’s threats! The worst part was when we were nearly killed! It’s a good thing the police showed up at the right time; otherwise, we would be mutilated and bleeding on the cabin floor right about now! We barely escaped with our lives!” She stamped her foot on the floor, her voice rising unexpectedly in shrill rage. “Why must I keep retelling my terrors and bringing up bad memories that I’d much rather forget?!”

Eloise gasped and recoiled, shocked that Cloudy would speak to an adult in such a way. But Meredith seemed to understand Cloudy’s frustration and misery with bringing up touchy subjects. “I see, dear,” she murmured. “Well, if you don’t wish to tell us, you may not, And if you want to keep it to yourself, do so, by all means.”

Cloudy nodded, still looking angry. She lay down on the linoleum tiles, her chin resting on her front paws.

Meanwhile, Tilry hadn’t said a word in all this time. He just watched in silence while Cloudy gave her heated tirade, his expression neutral. But when Cloudy was silent and the entire room was quiet, he sighed and turned his head to look up into his wife’s face. “Liloy, why didn’t you call and tell me you had been kidnapped?” he demanded in an anxious voice, taking her hand.

“I asked Father not to speak of the matter to you,” Liloy explained, “because I didn’t want you to worry.”

“‘Didn’t want me to worry?'” he repeated. His hand clenched tightly around Liloy’s. “I was freaking out over your disappearance! I didn’t know what had happened until Eloise got word from the authorities that you were with Joseph! I had to hear about your abduction from her!”

Cloudy was astounded and completely dumbfounded by that announcement. She turned to Eloise, who looked very embarrassed. She dropped her eyes to the floor when she noticed Cloudy staring at her. “You told Tilry Liloy was kidnapped by a serial killer?!” she exclaimed. “In his critical condition?!! Eloise, why would you do such a thing!”

Eloise didn’t meet Cloudy’s eyes when she spoke. “He was terribly worried about her almost to death, Cloudy,” she slowly answered. “I—I just figured maybe. . .if he knew where she was, he wouldn’t worry so much.”

“Yeah?! And how you think he felt after you told him his spouse was with a murderer who was recently jailed for maiming and killing several innocent people who never did him a lick of harm?!” yelled Cloudy. “I wouldn’t imagine he brought out the noisemakers and party hats! And as for him being worried almost to death, maybe it would have been better never to tell him at all! The way I see it, it would have been better for him to die not knowing of Liloy’s horrible predicament than to nearly kill himself with extreme anguish over her kidnapping by the inappropriate serial killer, Joseph Unswall!” The minute the rude, horrid words left her mouth, she was ashamed of herself.

Meredith let out a loud gasp of horror and placed her hand over her mouth. Leo stared at Cloudy in disbelief. Meta Knight lowered his head as if in shame. And Liloy just looked plain upset. Cloudy focused on the several pairs of eyes staring at her. She hadn’t meant to say something so brusque or even to indirectly imply that Tilry should have died.

Tilry blinked at Cloudy a few times, undecided as to whether he should scold her or keep quiet. Finally, he decided to refrain from rebuking her. Instead he turned to Meta Knight. “Father, you explain this,” he ordered in a stern voice. “Why did you not tell me where Liloy was when you already knew?”

Meta Knight sighed deeply. “Tilry, she asked me not to. And I did not want. . .to worry you.” His voice faltered as he went on, ” I just. . .did not want you. . .to worry. . .was all.”

Tilry’s face showed agony. “Father, you know how much I love Liloy. I love her with all of my heart. And I love you too. So much. But I hate it when you feel as if you have to keep something from me because you’re afraid I’m going to get angry at you or react badly.”

Cloudy raised her head and stared at Tilry. What did he mean by that?

Meta Knight shook his head. “Tilry, I. . .” He alternately clenched and unclenched the folds of his cape. Cloudy could feel the tension rising, and she was frightened by that for reasons she could not explain. “Tilry, I can’t. . .You know I. . .”

“Father!” Tilry’s voice was nearly at the breaking point. “Speak the complete truth about why you did not let me know Liloy was kidnapped! I know it wasn’t just because you didn’t want to worry me. There’s more to it that you’re not telling me.” He reached over and took his father-in-law’s hand. “Father, I beg you. . .please tell me the complete truth.”

Meta Knight glanced down at their joined hands and closed his eyes. Somehow Tilry’s raw vulnerability and honesty gave him the strength to tell the truth. “In truth, Tilry, I—I didn’t tell you because—I can’t stand to look at you. I didn’t want to face you with the truth because I can’t even look at you in your deteriorating state of health.” Overcome with emotion, he couldn’t go on.

The breath Cloudy had been holding in her lungs slowly hissed out. Her ears drooped. She felt sad for Meta Knight. How hard it must have been for him to admit such a thing, she thought, admiration in her eyes. But how terribly sad at the same time. Looking round at her friends, she could tell they felt the same way she did.

Tilry gazed at Meta Knight for the longest time, the love in his eyes salient. Tears filled his eyes and one dropped down on his cheek. A sob emanated from his throat, his body trembling uncontrollably. He raised his hand to hide the tears streaming down his face, but Cloudy saw them. She gasped soundly.

“Tilry,” Liloy pleaded with her husband, tears in her own eyes, “listen to me, babe. Father loves you very much, but this has been extremely hard on him. He would never abandon you, but there are times he needs to step back and think over hard situations.”

Tilry didn’t reply. He sat hunched, one hand covering his eyes, weeping. Scazzarda put an arm around Meredith, who was crying. Leo didn’t cry, but he was obviously touched by the scene. Miriam and the other children did not cry, but stared wide-eyed at the adults, their faces showing slight bewilderment. Meta Knight didn’t know what to say. He felt terrible.

“I’m sorry I hurt you,” Meta Knight whispered, “but you asked me for the truth, my son.” Tears sprang to his eyes. “I didn’t mean. . .”

“Father,” Tilry interrupted, getting control of his emotions and wiping his eyes. “You did not hurt me. I understand the truth is blunt sometimes, but I am not angry with you. I promise.” He let out his breath. “I just felt very overwhelmed by all of this—my hospitalization, Liloy’s abduction—and I broke.” His hands began to shake. “I didn’t mean to cause you so much grief. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.”

“No!” Meta Knight objected. “No, Tilry. I love you, and I always will. You’re not causing me grief. I’m pained to see you in this condition, but you are not in any way causing trouble for me, so do not think you are.” He smiled sadly, though Tilry could not see it. “You’re very valuable to me, and I would not want to lose you for the world. No matter what happens in your life, you’ll always be precious to me.”

Tilry grasped both of Meta Knight’s hands in his, fighting back tears. Then the two embraced as everyone watched. Eloise lifted her hands and began to clap, and one by one, the others joined in the clapping. Soon the whole room echoed with applause.

Meta Knight and Tilry disentangled themselves from their embrace and smiled at their joyous, acclimating friends. Scazzarda meandered up to Tilry and fondled him. Then she did the same to her son. He returned the tender affection, his eyes gleaming light blue. The others began to participate in the hugging. Laughter, bear hugs, and tears shared a part of the sweet, emotional scene young Cloudy was witnessing.

But as Cloudy observed her jubilant friends winging round and round the room, sheer elation written on their faces; and when she saw Meta Knight and Tilry, their hands clasped, the smallest smile sprang to her lips. Yes, Tilry, you are indeed precious to Meta Knight. You’re precious to all of us. I love you more than you’ll ever know.

Tilry laughed and brushed his eyes with the back of his hand. “I’m sorry about all of this, children,” he apologized. “I don’t think you can really comprehend this at your age. You probably think this is odd.”

“No, sir,” answered Eloise in a no-nonsense intonation, firmly but respectfully. “We may be pretty young, but we’re not ignorant. We understand your situation completely.”

“That’s right,” Nika chimed. “Kids are a lot smarter and fathom way more than their executives think.”

Tilry had to smile at that statement. It was true, he knew. His father had once told him the very same thing. “You’re right.” He sighed and leaned back against the pillows, suddenly seeming very drained. Eloise felt sorry for him. He had been through so much in so short a time.

Meredith too noticed Tilry’s exhaustion. “Come, children,” she said in a low voice. “Let’s leave Tilry to his rest.” She opened the door and moved outside, Scazzarda and Leo behind her.

The other kids languidly trooped out of the room, Cloudy halting only once to look back at speak to Tilry. “See you later, Tilry,” she murmured. “I’ll be praying for you—and for your life.”

Tilry smiled tiredly at her. “Bless you, child,” he told her.

Cloudy smiled too, a feeling of warmth and ecstasy moving through her. As she passed out of the room and smoothly shut the door, she prayed in her heart, “Thank You, Jesus, for keeping me, Miriam, Liloy, Derek, and Meta Knight safe while in Joseph’s habitation. And thank You for helping us escape with our lives. I love You forever, Jesus. Amen.” Then she trotted down the hallway, turned the corner, and was gone.

Songs

Than You’ll Ever Know

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(Verse 1)

Once upon a time

You would have said

You had it all together

Couldn’t get any better

But then you slid downhill

Couldn’t make your way back up

You’re stuck in this valley

Stuck in the rut

 

(Pre-Chorus)

I don’t know why you’re here

And you may not know why

Until you cross

To the other side

 

(Chorus)

But until you make it

Never forget

That God knows your needs

And here you’re set

Until you make it

Never ignore

That God loves you so

So much more

Than you’ll ever know

 

(Verse 2)

You might feel ineffective

And sinking in the mud

But God sees you there

He’s pulling you up

Out of the mire

And setting you high

On a pillar of love

On which He died

 

(Chorus)

But until you make it

Never forget

That God knows your needs

And here you’re set

Until you make it

Never ignore

That God loves you so

So much more

Than you’ll ever know

 

(Bridge)

Somethings life gets hard

Sometimes life gets rough

But never give up

For God is enough

He’ll pull you from the fire

He’ll pull you from the flame

Just cry out to the Lord

And call upon His name

 

(Chorus)

But until you make it

Never forget

That God knows your needs

And here you’re set

Until you make it

Never ignore

That God loves you so

So much more

Than you’ll ever know

Never ignore 

That God loves you so

So much more 

Than you’ll ever know.

Poems

Lion and the Lamb

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Jesus, You have all glory, wonder, pow’r, and might

You bless those who are cursed and against injustice fight

You are Elohim, Jehovah, True Vine, and great I AM

You are both the Lion and the Lamb!

 

There are those who scoff at your name and away from You turn

And against those who are unrepentant Your fierce wrath doth burn

You are the living sacrifice, as on the altar burned the ram

For You are both the Lion and the Lamb!

 

And when we fall asleep in You, Christ, come and take us home

And nevermore ever let us wander away nor roam

The wicked say they know You; on them heaven’s door is slammed

For You are both the Lion and the Lamb!

Yes, You are both the Lion and the Lamb!

Short stories

On the Inside

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It was three weeks to the Valentine’s Day dance at Victory’s school, but she had one problem—she had no date. And to make matters worse, the boy she did like already had a girlfriend, Meronna Minschue, who was by far the brattiest and most spoiled girl in the school. Most boys like Meronna for her beauty and her neat and snappy appearance. On the other hand, very few boys liked Victory. She was one of the most unattractive girls in the school. Her patched brown dress and her stringy black hair only added to her poor features. Victory couldn’t help the way she looked, however. Her parents were destitute and could barely afford necessary hygienic supplies, much less new clothes for their daughter.

Victory sighed as she gathered up her few schoolbooks and trudged to her next class, dragging her bare feet a little on the way. She always sat in the way back of the room so she wouldn’t be mocked by the rich girls. She was envious of their gorgeous dresses and finely combed hair. She was jealous of their pretty necklaces and their high-heeled slippers. But of course, she never let them know that. They would only laugh at her and mock her all the more.

Victory entered her science classroom and quickly seated herself at a desk in the far back. The rich girls sat farther up front. One of them was showing off an expensive leather purse dyed purple. Victory felt a stab of envy as she looked at the handmade bag. She knew she would never be able to afford anything like that. The girl who owned the purse glanced toward Victory, and Victory hurriedly took her eyes away from the bag and locked her gaze on a far corner of the room. The girls burst into laughter, but Victory ignored them. Still, she felt hurt. Why couldn’t she be rich like those girls?

______

That night at dinner, Victory asked her father, “Dad, can I work to earn us some money?”

Her father looked at her in surprise. “Work!” he exclaimed. “Victory, you’re only twelve years old. You’re not old enough to work, dear.”

“But how else can I earn money?” Victory asked.

Her mother gently broke in. “Victory, why do you want to earn money? Aren’t you thankful for what you do have?”

Victory hesitated. “Well, I guess I want to dress nicely like the girls at my school,” she replied, her voice coming out in a rush. “See, the Valentine’s Day dance is coming up at my school, and I want to look nice so a boy will like me and be my date, and. . .” Her voice trailed off when she noticed the way her mother was staring at her.

“Victory, true beauty is not found in expensive dresses or nice shoes or makeup or anything like that,” her mother wisely answered. “True beauty is found deep inside of you. Who you are is the beauty that should attract every man to you. If you’re a rude, selfish, rotten little brat, it will show, and no self-respecting boy will want you for his partner.  But if you show God’s grace, kindness, and love in your outward actions, you will stand out.”

Victory thought about her mother’s words from the time she washed the dishes from the time she went to bed.

______

A few days later, Victory was in the hallway, putting her books into her locker. While she was doing so, one of the rich girls came up behind her and purposefully jostled her, knocking the books out of her hand. Snickering, the rich girl walked off without bothering to pick up the books.

Victory’s face flushed with anger. As she stopped to retrieve the books, a boy suddenly appeared beside her. He was about thirteen years old, with thin black hair and tan skin. His blue eyes twinkled at her as he bent and helped her pick up her books.

“Thanks,” Victory said gratefully.

“You’re welcome,” the boy replied. He smiled. “My name’s Micah Junction. What’s yours?”

“Victoria Frosier,” she replied. “But you can call me Victory; everyone does.”

“Nice to meet you, Victory,” he said. He looked up at the ceiling, then back into her eyes. “By the way,” he casually inquired, “are you going to the Valentine’s Day dance?”

Victory shrugged. “I might,” she answered. “But I don’t have a date. What fun will it be if I don’t have someone to dance with?”

Micah grinned at her. “So you don’t have a date?”

Victory shook her head.

“Well, then. . .” He formally extended his hand to her. “May I have the pleasure of being your partner for the dance, Miss Victory?”

Victory was so astounded she nearly forgot what she was going to say next. “B-But I’m just a poor girl!” she exclaimed. “There are lots of girls that are prettier than I. Why would you pick me?”

Micah snorted. “And I suppose you mean all those fancily dressed, snobby girls who parade around the halls, showing off their fine attire? I wouldn’t date those brats for the world. Now,” he said, gazing admiringly at her, “when I spotted you the first day of this school year, I knew something was different about you. You didn’t brag. You never yelled at the rich girls, even when they mocked you. You always helped those in need, like that one girl who forgot to bring her lunch and you shared yours with her.” He grinned again. “That’s when I knew you were my right partner for the dance.”

Victory smiled too. “But I don’t have fine clothes to wear,” she said almost apologetically.

Micah beamed her another grin. “I have an idea about that,” he said, and began whispering into her ear.

______

It was Valentine’s Day, and the school dance was a blast. Pink, white, and red streamers and balloons were everywhere. A table full of drinks and desserts sat in a corner. Rose-colored spotlights were positioned on a silver disco ball, which slowly revolved and cast pink streaks on the walls and floor. The rich girls sat by the table with their dates, sipping punch and chatting animatedly.

“I wonder where Victory is?” Meronna said in a tone of pretended alarm.

“Probably crying her eyes out over her lack of fine dresses,” Janice spoke, pretending to wipe away a tear. The other girls laughed.

“Will she even show up?” Ginger wondered.

“Maybe in her wretched school dress,” Meronna giggled.

Just then, Micah opened the gym door and called out in a loud voice, “All right, everyone, listen up!” All eyes were turned toward him. “Meet the new, improved, beautiful Victoria Frosier!”

When Victory walked into the room, every mouth dropped open and every eye widened. Victory was no longer the thin, sad-eyed girl in a burlap dress. She was clothed in an ankle-length gown of white. She wore a set of pearl earrings, and her black hair was arranged in neat curls. A plastic gold crown sat nestled on her head.  Her shoes matched her gown color, and her clear skin glowed radiant in the pink spotlights. Her brown eyes were somber but happy. She outshone every girl in the room.

Meronna stood to her feet. “Did a toad kiss you and turn you into a princess, Victory?” she demanded.

“Very funny,” Victory answered with a smile. “Micah’s mother outfitted me and dressed me up.” She pirouetted to show off the effect. “How do you all like it?”

Janice crossed her arms. “And since when did Micah start to like you?” she sneered. “Look at yourself! You’re a complete disgrace to all who see you!”

“Ever hear that true beauty is found on the inside, Janice?” Victory calmly retorted.

Janice was taken aback; she couldn’t say a word. Meronna snorted at Victory’s statement. “And where did you hear that, Victory?”

“My mother. . .and Micah.” Victory flashed her date a smile and daintily held out her hand. Micah took it, and she waltzed off with him for the next dance, leaving the other girls staring after them in complete disbelief. For once, they wished they possessed the outward beauty Victory did.

But Victory had learned her lesson on beauty. . .it’s found deep within, not on the surface.

Short stories

Leap of Faith

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“Take him around once more, Myra,” Ellie called to her friend, reining in her horse, Maccabee. Her eyes absently followed Myra and Jubilee around the paddock as they alternately trotted and cantered. Myra seemed a bit uptight, but Ellie couldn’t blame her. She had been that way since July—since the day she had had the terrible riding accident at Northwood Horse Show.

Myra had been warming up Jubilee and preparing him for their turn to jump. As they effortlessly flew over the jumps, a child had accidentally thrown a toy into the arena. It barreled right past Jubilee, startling him and causing him to land right on top of one of the oxers, wrenching his tendon in the process. Myra had been thrown and had badly injured her leg. She had completely recovered without any problems and so had Jubilee. But after she had gotten out of the hospital, Myra had begun to act skittery and frightened of riding.

Ellie shivered as she recalled how panicked she had been upon seeing Myra thrown from the saddle, striking her head against one of the jumps. Then she was brought back to the present as she noticed how stiff Myra was and how tightly she was clutching the reins. “Relax, Myra,” Ellie reminded her. “You’re going to work up your horse.”

Myra sat up straighter in the saddle and loosened up on the reins, slowing Jubilee to a walk. “There’s no way I can be in Ritternown Horse Show next week,” she complained to Ellie. “I’m just not talented enough for riding!”

“Sure, you are,” contradicted Ellie. She rode Maccabee over to Jubilee. “Look, Myra, your nervousness and lack of proper riding have nothing to do with you being a horrible rider. I get you’re scared because you had that accident last month, but at least you got back on. Now all you have to do is get over your fright.”

“How do you do that?” Myra asked.

Ellie thought a moment as she gazed toward the setting sun. She couldn’t very well formulate an answer for that. “The longer you do it, the more comfortable you feel,” she said at last. “And gradually, your fear goes away—but only if you kill it.”

Myra sighed. “And how do you kill it?”

“By doing the thing you’re most afraid of,” Ellie replied.

Myra frowned a little. “Are you telling me I have to jump in order to kill my fear of jumping?”

Ellie shrugged. “Basically.”

“No way!” Myra shook her head. “I didn’t let you talk me into entering the horse show to jump! I’m going to stick to equitation and the hunter division and that’s it! I will not take that chance again!”

“But who’s to say you’re not going to get hurt doing equitation or the division?” Ellie asked, driving her point home. “And if you do, what will you do then? Stay out of horse shows forever? Quit riding entirely?” She automatically bent forward to pat Maccabee’s neck. “Myra, what I’m saying is this: You can’t let your fear keep you from doing what you love. Sometimes you have to take a leap of faith into the unknown, no matter how frightening or unsure it is. And who knows? You might surprise yourself with the results.”

Myra frowned and ran her finger along the pommel of the saddle. “I guess. . .” she mumbled.

Ellie smiled encouragingly at her. “Come on, Myra,” she gently prodded. “At least try the jumping class.” Seeing her friend’s doubtful look, she added, “Please?”

Myra sighed. “I don’t know how I let you talk me into this. . .but fine. Yes! I’ll do it. I’ll jump in the horse show.”

Ellie grinned and clicked her tongue to Maccabee. “I just know you’ll be a success,” she called over her shoulder to Myra as she and Maccabee cantered toward a set of four gymnastic fences. “Come on! Let’s start practicing now.”

Myra reluctantly followed, but now there was the tiniest glimmer of excitement in her eyes.

______

The day of the horse show had finally arrived! Everyone at the grounds was extremely busy. Horses were being groomed, riders were scurrying around, reporters were taking notes—everything was a whirlwind of excitement and busyness. Ellie and Myra stood a little way off from the madness, watching everything that was going on.

“Jumping starts in a few minutes,” Ellie reported. “Are you nervous?”

“Me? Of course I’m nervous,” admitted Myra. “I’ll always be nervous before a show. I don’t know how I’m going to do.” She ran her fingers through the thickly braided sections of Jubilee’s black mane. “What if I goof up and everyone laughs at me?”

“Don’t worry about the crowd,” Ellie supplied helpfully. “Concentrate on your riding. Tell yourself, ‘I will do well. I can do well. I am talented enough to win this show.’ Say that over and over while you’re warming up and I guarantee you’ll be confident when it’s time to jump.”

“Why would you say that?” Myra asked. “I’ll bet you’re just trying to make me feel better.”

“No way! I’m serious,” Ellie said. “I’ve tried it myself and it’s worked. I just know it will help you too, Myra.”

Myra didn’t say anything, but her face registered doubt.

“All contestants to the arena,” the announcer droned over the speaker. “First up is Elinda Haye on her horse, Maccabee.”

Ellie quickly crossed her fingers for good luck and swung up into the saddle. “Wish me luck,” she said to Myra. She touched Maccabee’s side with the heel of her boot and the horse trotted off toward the arena.

Myra was amazed at Ellie’s confidence as she sailed over each jump, a calm, composed look on her face. Her signals were nearly invisible; it was as if she and Maccabee were one. How does she do it? Myra wondered. How can she be so calm? 

After a few more riders, it was Myra’s turn. As the arena gate swung open, Myra rode inside. The gate clanged behind her.

Myra began a quick but efficient warm-up for Maccabee, walking, trotting, and cantering at short intervals. While doing so, she reviewed the order of the fences in her mind and told herself what Ellie had told her to think: “I will do well. I can do well. I’m a talented rider. I can win this.”

When she was ready, she turned toward the first fence and urged Jubilee toward it. The bay never batted an eye. He calmly approached it and leaped over it as it if were merely a log in his path. She shortened his stride as they neared the second fence, and again he cleared it with almost no effort. They repeated the process for the rest of the course. When they finished, the crowd burst into applause. Beaming with pride, Myra rode out of the ring.

“Beautiful, Myra!” Ellie congratulated her friend. “That was a splendid performance!”

Myra smiled. And it was then she realized she no longer felt afraid. Ellie’s advice had worked. “Thanks, Ellie,” she said. “You’re a great friend.”

“Oh, think nothing of it!” Ellie said, waving her hand dismissively. “I’m always glad to help.”

When the results for the jumping class were announced, Myra had placed first, with Ellie being a close second. Myra grinned madly as she attached the blue ribbon to Jubilee’s bridle, giving him a pat on the nose as she did so. “You’re a champion,” she whispered into his silky ear.

The hunter division was next, then equation and dressage. Myra placed second in the division and first in equation and dressage. When the time came to announce who the winner of the Ritternown Horse Show Trophy would be, Myra and Ellie were known as the top riders of the show. Not once had they placed below third. Not once had anyone come close to their ability to ride so well.

The announcer droned on and on about the trophy and about who had donated it. Myra began to get impatient. Maccabee champed his bit and stomped his foot. Ellie crossed her fingers behind her back. Finally, the time came.

“The winner of this year’s trophy is Myrabelle Karner, of Rocky Ford, Colorado.”

The crowd erupted into cheers and Ellie gave Myra a victory sign. Myra set off for the grandstand, her eyes shining, her smile wide. She barely heard the rest of the announcer’s commentary as she collected her trophy. As she gazed at the silvery sheen of the prize she held in her hand, she knew she had not gained this trophy on her own. She owed it all to Ellie, her best friend—the one who had first encouraged her to conquer her fears.