In an eye's blink, one of the main propellers of an in orbit jet was secretly removed before seatbelts were fastened...

Plate Johanna, Tryna Fluid and Matches Zaw

Alia and the Boy: Made in Portugal

Marriage Crosses a Frozen Inspector
Book 3

Written and directed by
Dan Sherrill and Wooden Box Theater

'I swear I was only trying to go dancing that night. I kept thinking to myself about the night I met her. The woman who would shatter everything I ever believed in. It should've gone off without a hitch on that summery July night. It was only a few more days until my birthday. I swear to God I didn't blow through the stop sign as badly as they said I did. Damn if I did. So what? Lot's of people do it. I'm trying to go in and raise Hell on the dancefloor at this place. I'm not getting to, though. The lights are flashing and I have no idea that he wants me to pull even further over than I am in the parking spot I have pulled into. Suddenly the officer says 'Stay in the vehicle.' He says it like I'm a criminal. I'm not one, you see. Unless he wants to charge me with carrying around a wounded heart in my hands waiting to hawk it to some pretty cowgirl later in the night.

Unlucky for me the idea of facing a no insurance ticket meant going to court, going home quick and going to bed, forgetting about everything the next few months would bring. No such luck.

I've binge ate myself to almost sickening death. I've eaten every fast food product I could swallow and hope to now puke back up either into a bag or out in the snow. It's the worst form of addiction. I've lost my 'drive' and my 'fury,' due to a total loss of the ground below me.

Why would it seem totally necessary to be thinking about someone who stole and smashed the one thing I had left in this world. My heart. I don't know, my love, but you did. I can only ask you to forgive me for something I'm not even sure had an identity for so long before you pick up your phone and return to the arms of the man who loves you dearly.

As I'm writing this in a journal miles and miles above the ground in an airplane, I know I don't have the courage to walk it to you where you sing on the weekends or to mail it, because even after all this time I'm afraid you won't read it, so I'll keep it to myself as a memorial for that place in your heart you once claimed was always there. How is it there? How is it there when you won't talk things over with me.

I'm not even sure I'd know what to say if your name flashed across my phone caller ID. I might answer and have quite an 'I'm sorry,' speech in store for you, but I'm afraid that I might not give you enough time to talk yourself. I'm done with that. If I did call you, I might hang up if you picked up. Why? I'm nervous. I always was. More like intimidated by you. Being around you was a chore with my heart because I knew. I knew that I loved you. I knew I was falling in love with you left and right and I couldn't handle it. I couldn't handle the fact that I'd found someone who made me happy with mystery and suspense. It was a roller coaster, I know. I know we haven't spoken since July. It's hard to forget. There's been days now where I haven't thought of you.

I can honestly say that. Wow. How long did that take? I'm thinking about you now because I'm writing a novel and even though I'm writing aboard a jet on the way to investigate with The Father some crying Virgin Mary statues that the people who are distributing them claim can cry and in some cases bleed real human blood, I wish you were here. I wish you were here so badly that I wanna cry right now. I know I shouldn't. I have to be strong for The Father and for the next several months that technically I'm a huge liability driving to and from work.

I'm also writing to tell you that I've been very upset and thinking about not waking up in the morning. It got so close one day that my real father had to talk me out of it, because I just snapped. The guy was late looking at my car and I was standing outside with my cell phone shivering in my hand. I couldn't reach my mom or sister and as my fingers were so cold in trying to hit redial to reach my mom to talk me out of it all I could think of was calling you, but then what would you have done? You're not a mechanic. You couldn't have saved my car from suspension, could you have?

Sometimes I wonder what would've happened. Hell, I wouldn't have had to pay some of those tollway fines that are building up. I'm going to have to go NSF in my checking account for it if I wanna save my plates and actual drivers license from being suspended and the thing sent to a lawyer. I almost don't want to tell you these things for fear you might laugh or for fear you might cry and fly down here and hop on a jet to comfort me. I don't know how I could face you right now.

The thing I'd have the most trouble with is you seeing me so fractured and moody. I've been line dancing, but it's not the same. I always hope to see you peer out of the shadows to make sure I'm doing okay and that I'm dancing with a pretty gal. I'm haunted and ready to throw in the towel each time they change the music from country to dance club music. I can't seem to erase that joy you brought to me in such a short time. It's bad enough I lost you, but I lost a part of my heart along with you.

Right now we're almost ready to land, but I don't want to break the moment, so I'll keep writing even after we get to our hotel rooms. Only me and The Father are here. Alia came with us, but she sat further back in the jet. Anda is with her. A few security Ileys, but for the most part it's just the three of us.

I remember every minute, every laugh, every cry, every letter I wrote, every letter I wrote and never sent, and every letter I did send that you probably never read.

The thing I can't shake is how much you held onto me for dear life the night we met. I can't erase you for that reason and that reason alone. I'm trying to be there for The Father as He deals with His own villains and problems, but I think I may be too overwhelmed with my broken heart and my broken fury to attend to someone else, even though He is very important to me and I'd never tell it to His face, but I just don't want Him to be mad if I'm not jumping up and down right now to help Him solve this case. I don't know why He takes these things so seriously and gets so worked up about a few statues of Mary being out there. I know it's bad that these people are rigging them to cry and bleed but, then I stop and think about how worked up I am right now and how much I want to call you. Then it sinks in that I still do have some time on my cell phone that I could use. Not sure if it'll work all the way out here in orbit, but I suppose I could give it a try.

I don't know how much I can handle right now, my dear, I love being here and being on Iley and serving as one of their commanders, but my 'real life' is so out of control. I ate last night. I ordered a third batch of junk food. I ate a whole order of french toast, with syrup, butter and two hot dogs with everything on them. I had some green pepper soup that I thought was going to warm me up. It didn't. It made me mad. That's the only flavor they had, can you believe that? They gave me a cup of cole slaw, too. Being a binge eater for five years or so straight these things interest me in a grand finale sort of way.

Everytime I find myself wanting to buy three pizza's instead of just two and eating them until I pass out. It's ugly I know, but I've been that way for so long. I'll go a couple of weeks and claim I'm over it, Hell, I'll even write it down on paper the new meals I'm going to eat instead of sitting in my car listening to talk radio and surviving on the 2 hot dog special at the gas station for 99 cents. It's a side of me not a lot of people know about. Not a whole Hell of a lot of people know the side of me that walks home from the library craving fast food or any food for that matter so bad that I will get in my car and go and sit and order the same toxic shit to eat night after night until, yeah, now I'm overweight. I might only be 170 pounds, but it's a lot for me.

The reason this letter is so long is that, I don't know, I just want to outline my current state of being and how fractured it is right now. Maybe someone will read it and loan me a few dollars for some actual real food that I don't have to order over the phone with my charge card that's almost empty of funds as it is.

I drove by the gas station earlier before we got on our plane. It's hard to do. I gave the pretty girl two of my 'Alia and the Boy,' flyers and as I was leaving the place in my car I noticed the pay phone outside. It's the same one I called you from. The same one. You brought me to tears that night. I had the binge eating thing under control around you. I did. I promise I did. It's so ugly I don't even want you to know about it, but I might as well put it out there in the open. You'll either pray for me or curse me again. I guess it got worse when you left me. I didn't want to do anything but stuff my face full of double cheeseburgers and chicken sandwiches for a dollar each. And hot fudge sundays. And chicken wings. And coffee. And I wouldn't work out, so I probably scared the people I work with always coming back from lunch hunched over ready to be sick all over our office carpet. I've finally put my foot down where that is conserned. I no longer want to eat myself sick. I don't want to be sick anymore. I don't want that shit any more. It's time to get back to my weight lifting and my running and my unleashed fury that I know is in there somewhere. Somewhere. Just waiting to see the light of day for the first time since March of 2004.

I'm going to put my pen down so I can finish checking into the hotel room I'm going to be sharing with Empress Alia. You remember her right? You read some of the 'Alia and the Boy,' novels. At least you said you did. You even told me you could tell that I missed my blonde cowgirl. I wonder sometimes if you check up on the new ones and how they outline perfectly the hurt you caused. This is something I obviously can't get past. Do I blame you for my eating disorder creeping back up to haunt me in the middle of my walk home from the library? All I can say is-sort of. You sort of did and you sort of didn't.

One the one hand the loss of an angel as powerful as you would make any sea captain jump overboard from his brand new ship. You know what? I wish you could've seen me the night I did get sick. Yeah I tried calling Cay'q Stem in another state, but I would've rather laid there and had a heart attack before I would listen to you hurt me again.

I swore to God I was going to lay down and not wake up. It was kinda scary actually. There's always that split second when you realize what you've done. I really did drive home in a rain storm. I was kind of scared to take the same route as my car accident, so I took a different way home. Big mistake. The rain was so hard I nearly had to pull over. See, among other things like a radiator leak and a tire that now needs air every so often, my car also doesn't have defrost in it.

I got home and instantly I wanted food. I wanted anything and everything on the menu. I'd already had a huge energy drink in me and two bottled waters and two hours of dancing in me. Now I was about to digest over three pounds of food. I would try to sleep that whole night, but between the caffine and the clogging of my arteries, I would just kind of jolt back awake and clutch my heart as if it might really be the last time it beat in my chest.

Then I realized I couldn't just take it all back and start over with a clean slate in the morning. I would either have to throw it back up or lay there and hope to die. By about 6am or so I finally fell asleep. I have no idea what happened to me while I was asleep but for all practical purposes, I shouldn't have woken up.

In closing I wanted to pose a question to you, my former girlfriend. What in the world were we to you? Just a few dates, just a few smiles or just a few kisses? I don't and won't accept anything from you except a final answer. I don't want to mail this and then turn around and want to write more to it so I'm bugging you twice through the mail, which I know I don't want to do. I want this to be over for me. This is for me. I want to move on. I want to try. I can't erase the image of you dancing and me walking up to you and you crying in my arms and you kissing me and asking, no, begging for my number. I had no idea what was about to happen to me from that moment on.

Life changes when you least expect it to, honey, sometimes you can control it. Sometimes you can't. I'm miserable and ugly and I've probably used up all of the sheets of paper that The Father loaned me to write this, but I don't care, I'll finish it on the sidewalk leading up to the place where we met if I have to. I'll write it in snow.

I love you, Mythaq dannika Osterly. Even your name brings back so many memories that I've thrown away in the dumster outside my house, only to want to walk outside in the cold and pull the dirt off of them and bring them back into my studio apartment and dust off and freely display them among my Earthly possessions.

I'd tear this letter to shreds if I knew it would do any good to call you at 11:23pm Wednesday December 7th, 2005. Answer that one? Answer that one right now and I swear I'll put down my double cheeseburgers and pizza's and root beer floats and all the shit I could eat even tonight. I could never drive through the fast food place and order 5 sandwiches at a time with no water and try to make myself sick all over again for the hundreth time. I've done it so many times I'm literally getting sick of the taste of it.

I could do all of that if you would just do one thing for me. Just one thing.

Just remember that as much as we fought and threw things at each other over the phone and as much as I probably seemed like I was cross examining you half the time when I would ask you if you were going to break my heart, we could always agree that we loved and prayed for each other. I don't want to call you and fight. I'm done with that and I'm too fragile right now to even consider fighting with someone I love so much. It's strange to say that this late in the story, but damn it it's so true right now I almost want to cry real tears in front of the pretty girl sitting next to me watching me type this out. I'm a fast typer.

As you can tell I'm not really on a plane like I said earlier in this letter. I'm writing my novel. I'm writing this one to relive some of the reasons I can't let you go. See, now you have me crying. I don't want to be sad in front of a beautiful girl. I should just wipe these tears away and move on. Right. I'm moving on. I can't move on. I had everything in God's Earth that I wanted. For a month and a half. I had mystery. I had suspense. I had love. No one opened up to me like you. No one sat there and intently listened to me the way you did. I always, always, always felt like you were listening to me. No matter what I said you paid perfect attention. You even asked me to repeat certain things when I'd say something you didn't understand. Thank you for that.

Thank you for making me a better person. Thank you for letting me feel loved for 45 days. Thank you for showing me that is possible, when I least expect it, to find the woman of my most awesome dreams. I found her. She's you! She's always been you. And she always will be. Someone else wil just have to understand. It'll never come close.

I guess, in closing, that this means goodbye. I know The Father has someone else picked out for me to love and try to move forward with, but I don't even know if I'm going to like her. How could she be any more perfect than my fragile, tall angel.

Before I let you go, and I know this letter is long and a little sad, but before I let you go I just wanted to tell you that I did leave you three messages the night we fought so damn bad on the phone. Two were not so nice and one was nice. One told you that if we had folowed through on our plans to meet up that fateful day, I was going to ask you to marry me. Yes, me, Dan Sherrill was going to ask you, Mythaq dannika Osterly, if you would say in front of a judge that would care for me and keep me safe in your heart forever. It's not that big of a request since you said I was already in your heart.

You ask me why would I think of marrying someone when they've just finished telling me that I never meant anything to them. I raised my voice to you and I shouldn't have done that. I rarely ever do. I slipped into work mode and I was very angry with you. Angry that after everything we'd been through you still didn't know how you felt about me and you had done such a great job talking yourself out of being my girlfriend that it didn't seem like I was talking to the same person anymore. What happened to the angel I met? Was she just a patch of fog I happened to think was a real life angel?

I sure hope not. I hope that you were real and that the kisses you put on my lips from yours were real. I didn't imagine holding you in my arms. I didn't just imagine club dancing that night and walking up to you and you dancing so perfectly with me. I'll never erase that part. Maybe we need to see each other again, honey, it's been months. It's been since way before my birthday. It's been since at least June. I remember it well. I remember you looking at me and me looking at you and we couldn't seem to find the words to say to each other other than a longing to just run the fuck away from everyone and everything that might try to come inbetween what we had at that first date or that first kiss or that first dance. We had the world in the palm of our hands. Ready and able to take it in our clutches. We just couldn't hold onto the spark that had ignited right before our eyes.

I've still got some of my half of it. I keep it close to me in times of trouble and danger. Like the night I almost had a heart attack. My heart was racing. If family had known how close I was to death they might have acted fast to come and get me and take me to a hospital so they could pump my guts for junk food and candy and pop and they would probably be able to revive my body, but how do you revive a broken heart? How? I have a few dollars in my pocket. Money that's mine, not the tollway's, but mine. I'll give it to you if you can tell me just how on Earth I can finally get over you.

Unless the worst is true. Unless you've done this before with someone else, anyone else. But then the quesiton remains. Why me? Why pluck me out of the sea of club dancers to betray, hurt and crush? What did I ever do in my life to deserve such abuse? One theory is that I wear my heart on my sleeve and I'm too easy to let someone in when I haven't fully been sure of them as far as one or two club dances.

Instead I walk into these things head first and most of the time needing stitches to repair an open wound from it. I don't want to bore you with my personal problems any more than you'll want to read the ugly details of my rabid food addiction. What I will say about it is that it takes over your body and mind and spirit and controls you like a puppet. You're it's slave and if it says you're going to go through the drive through and order a 2 pound bag of food, then you're sure as Hell going to end up in your car talking to a machine telling it you want a number two with cheese and a large drink. And I could even do that tonite. I could go there right now. Hell, it's Midnight right now. I could walk home, since I didn't drive. I could get in my car and drive the few blocks. They take debit cards, right? And I could order the same toxic mixture as I did the night of my scare and I could totally be done by tomorrow. But I'm not going to. I'm a Christian. I love God. I'm a born again Christian. I shouldn't do things like binge eat. It's not healthy. The spirit that tells you to do it and keep doing it, even after you've swore up and down that you'll never do it again and that this last large cheese and one toping with four cans of pop for $10 is going to be your last. And you know what?

Through it all I would've given anything while telling the speaker to give me more food to be back in Downers Grove club dancing with some hot girl and french kissing during the hip hop songs. That's what I'm used to. I'm used to looking in my closet and finding Vitamin B6 and B12, and Gingko Biloba and chewable multivitamins. My routine is watching wrestling before going out dancing. Trust me, it helps.'

Someone walks by Dan Sherrill at the library where he is typing the novel, and puts her arms around him.

Gayle Eqza-You're still trying. Real hard. To wipe her out of your heart. I know you wanted to make this one long last love letter to her. I'm new to this situation with the two of you.

He looks away from the screen to see her. She looks amazing. A few years older than he had last seen her, but still very much amazing.

Dan Sherrill-How did you know where to find me?

Gayle-You don't have a computer so you come here to type. I scanned a couple of the other floors for you and here you are.

Dan-I'm here to write some of my novel.

Gayle-And I'm here to be your muse. Do you like my perfume?

Dan-Yes. It's making me smile, isn't it?

Gayle-That's good to see.

Dan-I hope you weren't worried about me from all of my 'blog' writing on my other site?

Gayle-A little. The person I use to know and hang out with never binge ate. Where do you put it all? I did some research on the internet about this condition.

Dan-I have every one of the signs. I've done the same research. The Father knows.

Gayle-Listen, hun, you can realistically sit here and wear your headphones and type until you cry for her to read this, but she's lost. She's not going to. You need to be taking a shower and putting on cologne and getting out of debt and paying your past due rent. None of these things include wasting away and eating yourself to a heart attack over some chick that couldn't appreciate you or be decisive enough to know how to return your love.

Dan-You're right.

Gayle-I know you like your biggest fan. You've come up with these elaborate storybook ways of portraying her as a ghost, a monster, an alien, but none of those include heartbreaker, which is what I think she became to you. You're dancing around the subject of her never giving you a straight answer about her intentions in asking you for your number that first night. I've been reading all these 'Alia and the Boy' stories that you have online. It seems like the one thing she owed you was that missing fourth date. That one chance for closure. Either she loves you or hates you? She never decided, which is what drives you back into depression. I wish she could see this unfolding live in her face. I wish that a lot. I'm sorry I don't know you a little bit better or I'd have your hand in mine instead of my arms around you.

Dan-Thanks.

Gayle-Seriously. Calm down. Put her out of your heart. She did nothing but come inbetween you finding a replacement gal. I'm sure The Father isn't going to be happy to know that you've written another 'Alia and the Boy' about the one you miss so much.

A flash of light is seen on the fourth floor of the library where Dan writes his novels.

He walks with a caring look on His face.

The Father-Hello Gayle. Thanks for coming on such short notice.

Gayle-No problem. Don't forget I'm half Iley and half Kaesa. The half Iley in me told me it was a good idea to come and be with him.

Dan-So how bad do you think I am? I'm sure you've been reading the beginning of this one in Heaven on your computer and I'm sure you're not liking what you are reading. A friend of mine told me to make the whole thing one long letter to Mythaq. I can't do it. I don't have that many feelings left for her. In all honesty. Gayle, you're right, it's not worth spending any more time on. Look at me. I just came form getting my hair cut and I replaced all of my vitamins and I'm going to be cleaning up and rearranging my apartment later today and the perfect way to finish the day is not worrying myself sick over driving on a suspended license plate or looking into the shadows for her to suddenly appear and make everything better. I met her in march. It's December now. That's a long time. I haven't even talked to her since July. It would be unfair, I think, to try to explain to a hottie that I'm stuck on some girl who could do nothing but drain blood from my heart as she strung me along in a roller coaster of 3 months. I'm not going to live that way. I might as well print the letter I opened the novel with and tear it up and throw it into the Kishwaukee River and let the ducks splash water on it until it disolves or is eaten by stray fish. I know if I send it she won't read it. It's a lost cause.

There are footsteps heard by Gayle and The Father coming up the staircase to the fourth floor Southeast Asia CD-ROM workstation. It appears to a librarian.

Matches Zaw-Aren't you Dan Sherrill?

Dan-Yeah. Don't you work at the CD store on New Iley?

Matches-Small world. Someone just dropped a note off for you at the main circulation desk. She said it was urgent. She left right after she gave it to me. She did look awfully familiar. Like I'd seen her before. Real thin, and supermodel beautiful.

Dan-Thank you.

He walks back down the stairs, leaving Dan and his two friends to wonder what the note says, and better yet, who sent it.

Dan,

'I've been reading 'Alia and the Boy' I know I shouldn't. I knew you were going to write about me. I knew it. I did. I assure you, I did. You can't write fiction. Why can't you write fiction? Why can't you write fiction? Why would this one be shelved in non-fiction? Why? Because, it's about me. I broke your heart, fine, sue me. Take me to court. It's done. I'm threw crying over you. I'm threw beating myself up for it. Why don't you just get in your car and drive to Rachel's store and buy a ring for me and run from your car to my doorstep and marry me tonight. Do it tonight. But, then again I don't want someone sneaking out in the middle of the night for fast food and coming home looking like death hit you in the jaw. I don't want a rescue mission. I don't. I told you that and I meant it. I'm writing and dropping this off because I want to wait to see how you finish the story. I logged onto the website after reading the last one and I found that you'd posted some of this one. I cried. When the tears made makeup fall down my face I decided to come here, but I knew once I'd get to the library I would not know how to react seeing you this way. This is not how I remember you.

This eating and this condition you have. I know it haunts you. I know being with me was a vacation from it. And I know that I helped bring it all back. You can't sit there and tell me I didn't. I'm smarter than you give me credit for. I dare you to get yourself cleaned up and seek me out. I dare you right now to get a haircut, rearrange your apartment, buy some posters, do some sit ups, lift weights, eat healthy, run, jog, freak dance, wear your cleats, and show me someone changed and I'll talk to you again. I don't want and can't use someone in my life who is constantly fractured and emotional. That would only bring me down. Get that drive that you used to have back. Be confident in yourself. Show the same confidence you did when you walked up to me and started dancing with me out of the blue. Reading the 'Suitcase' story made me mad at you. I wanted to ring your neck and then hang you on a tree for changing. You can't blame it all on your job, you have to disect the problems and things that lead up to it so that you can exterminate it and move on.

Call me if you want, but only for the right reasons. Go to your country line dance club tonight. Who knows? I may show up. I may not. But if I don't, do not just walk around aimlessly looking for me. Find a cute gal and dance. Just be yourself. You're a sweet guy. I just wish you'd snap out of this mood you've been in since June.'

Love,
Mythaq

Dan-What am I supposed to do now? Part of me wants to drive to East Kaesa and be with her tonight and forget going out dancing, but I can't. I'm too hurt. What the Hell do I do? And how the Hell did she not have the courage to walk in and deliver this to me herself? Something's just not right here. I think I need to pause the story for a little bit while I think about weather I want to set myself up to get hurt even worse than I am now or do I want to risk it and drive up to dance with the thought that she may pop out and bring me to tears at any moment. I hope I have enough courage myself to do either thing tonight.

The Father-I have to get going. I promised Jesus I'd help him build a coffee table for Matthew. I've got all of his carpenter tools in my garage. Dan, I'm glad you decided not to make this one just a long letter to someone who has a jet black soul.

Dan-I'll keep my comlink hidden on my waist just in case anything out of the ordinary happens tonight.

The Father-Good thinking. I'm glad you're feeling better. You're also getting better at driving in snow. I know you're under pressure with this tollway issue and your plates being suspended. Just becareful in your driving to either East Kaesa or to dance later.

Dan-I will.

A few days later after singing and dancing at the country music club something happens. Something out of the ordinary. Honey, our power went out at work. Suddenly the computers were frozen. I think it might be from the cold. They let everyone go on break and I walked outside. It's almost Christmas. I don't know why, but I called you. I checked my company's directory again for your number and I went to my freezing cold car and I turned on the CD player to one of our songs, 'A Day Late,' by Anberlin. I love their music. I kept thinking about all the songs I'd think of you during. I had no idea if you were going to answer or not. I hoped you would, but then what would I have said if you didn't. Just another unlistened to voice mail.

With you everything is out of the ordinary. You picked up and actually talked to me. My first reaction was to flood my car and phone with tears. I miss you. I tried so hard not to get emotional over the phone, I was enjoying the time, even if it was only ten minutes, that we were civil and calm and got to talk. I guess the computers and phones going screwy made me think of you. Of course I'll go to your Christmas Eve service with you. Maybe it'll be a new start for us. I thought. Honey, I ran back into my office after not hearing your sweet voice in eight months. It felt like I had won some sort of award. I wanted to tell everyone, but I didn't want to jinx it. I wanted to keep you close to my heart, the way you belong. I am screwing up in my search to replace you. It never works. I keep dating girls who don't even come close to being the kind of woman you are and were to me. It's sad, I know, but I end up hurt wanting to take you up on your offer to drive to East Kaesa, right, with a ring and getting the thing over already. I know the time I did mention getting married was on a voicemail, and I'm not even sure if you pick those up from me anymore.

I've been thinking about this all week, and now with it being Christmas Eve, I want you to know that I both cannot wait, and I am also scared to see you again. I could very well end up with my soul mate again, or with a heart that may be broken forever. Is it worth see you then? Is it worth doing it to myself one more time in the hopes of holding your hand or a hug or a kiss or even a smile. Is it worth going to a place where I'm scared of even being in again, considering what happend there back in May. I don't know how the Hell you expect me to get ready. Trust me, I'll do it for you. You actually sounded sweet on the phone this time. I don't know, though. I never know with you. I wish I knew what I am walking into.

I wish I knew how we are going to react being around each other. You've taken everything out of my heart and crushed everything. I guess all you really said was that you might say hi to me. And that you didn't know if you wanted to be my friend. Well, for one thing, I wish you'd make up your mind. I should surprise you and ask you to marry me while all of these people are holding candles in their hands and the lights are off. Would be perfect, wouldn't it?

The last time I saw you at church, you scared the Hell out of me. I'll never forget the sound of your voice telling me that you didn't have a minute to talk to me. I swore I'd never go to another church after that. I was going to just pretend like they don't exist, but that's no way to feel. My faith is strong, though. It was until I met you. I can't believe I let you question my faith in God. He means so much to me and I never thought I'd let Him down or doubt His plan for me, until I met you. When I lost you, I lost my heart. I've been walking around aimlessly since you left me. I restarted my binge eating, I looked like a transient at work, I stopped caring. Now my plates are suspensed, I've got half a dozen tickets to pay, and I'm still a mess.

Part of me wants to call you and say 'No' to seeing you again. I want to keep binge eating. I want to keep going through the drive thru and stuffing my face full of however many burgers and fries it takes to make me fat. Add a few large pizza's and not working out and whatever else I have to do to be able to say 'I'm full.' No, because then I'll have a heart attack and die and I still won't know what's in your heart. I still will not know why you picked me out of the entire line dance club to fall in love with and to invite to your heart and your church the first time. That route won't work. As much as I'm scared, I have to see you for both of us to move on or move on together. I'll see you Christmas Eve, Mythaq. I hope.

Once the day arrives everyone in Heaven is on red alert. No one knows quite what to expect. A showdown, a crying mess, a wedding proposal. The Father keeps his comlink on high alert, and sends Dan with one with a line direct to Him. Joseph and Mary decide to follow close to Dan's car, and Jesus, thinking no one would recognize him without his trademark beard, invites Brittany along to a night where anything would be possible.

Dan's cell phone rings.

Jesus of Nazareth-Are you sure you want to go through with this?

Before he can answer, another call comes in.

Dan-Jesus, um, I'll be right back, it's Gayle.

Jesus-Alright, but don't forget to answer me.

Dan-I won't.

Gayle-I'm following you. Let's stop and talk. I saw the other night at the club while we were line dancing, which I couldn't believe I was doing, that you kept looking for your lady. Now it seems you're going to see her again, which I advised you not to. I'm upset with you, but I reread a few of the novels online and yeah, I never read scripts, but I did for you, this time. I'm coming with you. I know you still kinda like me anyway, but I brought you some Christmas cookies just in case this meeting doesn't go well.

Dan-Thanks. I'll save a seat for you.

Gayle-I'll sit somewhere away from you and just observe. You got to save a seat for your lady, in case she comes over to you.

Dan-Yeah, like last time.

Gayle-See you there.

He decides to call Jesus back.

Dan-Gayle is coming to keep me sane.

Jesus-A little extreme, but I see your point. Joseph and Mary will be keeping an eye on the pastors, just in case they turn out to be 'Inventors.' Brittany and I will scan the parking lot of strange activity. It was mom and Joseph's idea to do this for you. We can't crowd the church with Ileys and people from Heaven, someone might be suspicious.

Dan-My friend, I think I'm going to break down at any minute. I'm pulling up to the parking lot and I see her car, but I don't know what the Hell I'm going to say to her. There's only a handfull of cars in the lot.

Jesus-Here, just drive around the block a few times, well see where this road leads. It's a little too foggy out here to be getting lost, or pulled over for looking lost.

Brittany asks for the phone.

Brittany Leigh-Dan, my brother, calm down. I saw a retirement apartment complex when we were driving down the main road here. Pull in there and we'll pray. It's a foggy night. I'm sure no one will notice my friend here. I can't talk and drive at the same time, so turn around and find that complex and we'll pray to Jesus' Dad in the car.

Once the cars meet up again, they are just outside a townhouse.

Brittany runs up from her car to Dan's to give him a hug. She takes Dan's passenger seat in his car, as Jesus sits in the backseat. All three bow their heads and Dan begins to pray.

Dan-Dear God, I just hope that you watch over me tonight as I attempt to win back my heart and my lady. This is going to be one of the hardest nights of my life to get through. I'm going to need every bit of love and grace that's in Heaven to even consider getting through it. Sorry if that sounds like I'm holding on to my faith more now than ever, but I just happen to be. Will you please watch over me. God, I remember her and I sitting there holding hands back in March. She's so beautiful...

He tries to finish his prayer, but can't. Too many tears fall from His eyes. Brittany tries giving him a hug, but he won't take it.

Dan-I have to finish this. I'm sorry.

Jesus-It's alright. I know Dad is listening.

Dan-Dear God, I'm sorry for not saying Amen. I can't do this. I want to go home now. I can't risk my heart again. I just need to know that You'll come down if this turns into a trainwreck and I sit in church with my pittiful looking jacket and bulletin from the church and my shabby looking and feeling heart. Why am I here begging someone to love me? I know you and Jesus do. And the gang in Heaven. I just can't risk it. God, why do I want to cry again?

Brittany-Shh. We can call Joseph and Mary right now if you want.

Dan-Jesus, what the Hell am I supposed to do? It's a lose/lose situation.

Jesus-So was dying on the cross. Look at my hands. The holes are still there. Nothing would've been learned if I had backed down from it. I'll try to understand if you want to go home, but it's going to be hard. It'll haunt you like a Halloween haunted house.

Dan-Okay, we better go. It's getting late.

He calls Gayle and assures her that they are still coming.

Brittany-We'll see you there, Danny, I'll call The Father and tell him you said 'Amen.' I know He was listening, too. Besides I don't think Mythaq would recognize me. She might recognize Gayle, from being a singer, I don't think she would catch on to your conneciton with her.

He parks his car right next to hers and grabs the Christmas card he'd written and bought for her. Grabs his jacket and takes a few sips of an energy drink he'd bought for later and grabs his wounded heart and shuts his car door and walks toward the door of the church containing his soul mate. Or at least the one he'd always hoped would be his destiny.

Someone is nice enough to hold the door for him, as he feels a brief shiver flow through his body.

Out of the corner of his eye he sees Gayle, looking absolutely beautiful, walk through and pick up her 'Silent Night' candle. Mary and Joseph are seen, but not recognized right away.

Mary of Nazareth-This isn't one of those churches that have the crying statues of me, is it?

Joseph of Nazareth-I don't think so, hun. I don't see one.

Mary-Let's find a seat near Danny.

Joseph-You look really nice, by the way.

Mary-Thanks. Elizabeth gave me this dress a while ago, for special occasions like this.

Joseph-Danny said he was going line dancing later, depending how the next two hours go, do you want to go up there with him?

Mary-Sure.

Joseph-That's her! I'm going to go and say hi.

Mary-Wait, I'm going too.

Standing at the front of the church she is met by the two visitors of the service.

Mary-Joseph, that pastor is giving me a dirty look.

Joseph-Shh. Mythaq can see us.

Mary-Hello, dear. Are you singing tonight?

Mythaq-I am. How did you know?

Joseph-The bulletin we just got.

Mythaq-Do I know you?

Mary-Maybe. I met you at your house one night over the summer. I'm Mary. This is my husband Joseph. We're here for the service. I understand most of it will be spent with the audience holding their breath at a certain meeting that's bound and determined to take place. You're from East Kaesa, aren't you?

Mythaq-And you?

Mary-Nazareth. Small town. My kid might show up.

The pastor has walked toward Mythaq at the sound her their visitor mentioning her hometown.

Pastor Osc-Good evening. Are you two here for the service?

Mary-Yeah. I guess we are. We do have our candles for the service, don't we?

A woman walks close to the conversation carrying a welcome mug and folder with church hours and events.

Mary-Thank you.

Pastor Osc-There, you now have a welcome mug. I think you two should find your seats now.

Jesus and Brittany have found a parking spot close to the entrance.

Jesus-What do you have there?

Brittany Leigh-I brought my scanner.

Jesus-What for?

Brittany-I don't feel very good about what my brother is doing. I remember the day we met Miss Osterly. She found her way into Heaven after seeing Dan at a dance club, and instantly she thoguht she was his soul mate. Seemed kind of strange to me from day one. I applaud his love for her, but I'm just being careful. This thing I have is on loan from Alia. It'll scan her car for anything suspicious.

Jesus-I bought some coffee in case it's a long night.

Brittany-Okay and...on.

Jesus-What are you hoping to find?

Brittany-That this special someone my brother might propose to isn't just another heartbreaker. Hey I found something.

He sets his coffee cup back in the cup holder of the car.

Jesus-Yeah. The readings are turning red. That must mean something.

Brittany-There's porcelain in her car.

Jesus-Why would that be important.

Brittany-Where is your Dad?

Jesus-Awaiting Dan's call for help, if he needs a rescue, why?

Brittany-Get him on the phone. Here, use mine. Make sure Danny can get through if he needs to so don't tie up the line, but tell Him that I've scanned Mythaq's car and I found porcelain in it. He'll know what I mean.

Jesus uses Brittany's cell phone to place the call back to Heaven.

The Father is sitting alone in His office, waiting for Dan to call for help, as He hasn't wanted to watch the monitor of what's going on in the church, for fear His own personal feelings for the situation might get in the way of letting things properly play out.

The Father-Hello, Dan?

Jesus-No, it's me.

The Father-I'm not watching the monitor, what's going on?

Jesus-Brittany is still running her scanner on Mythaq's car. She wanted me to tell you that she found a large amount of porcelain in the car.

The Father-Did you see any when you drove into the parking lot? I mean in her car.

Jesus-I wasn't looking.

The Father-Kate and I will be there. Be careful.

Jesus-What are we looking at here?

The Father-I believe she may be transporting some of the statues.

Jesus-Of what?

The Father-Your mother.

Jesus-Wait, she would have to be working for Oscar Vega to be able to gain access to spread the word about these creations of his.

The Father-Correct.

Jesus-Do you think Vega is here tonight? Maybe he's in disguise.

Brittany-Jesus, your mom and Joseph are already inside. With Dan and some disco band singer. They're spread out, though, so no one recognizes them.

The Father-Vega isn't dangerous, don't get me wrong. I think I know who to call to come with.

He is awakened from a nap by one of his guards in an attempt to wake him.

Yana Que-Sir, you have a call.

L takes the phone from one of his trusted.

L-Hello?

The Father-How long would it take you to get to my office?

L-A few minutes, why?

The Father-Did you shave?

L-Yeah, why?

The Father-Then you're coming with me and Kate.

L-Where?

The Father-Christmas Eve. Sorry to say. We have a situation in the Mythaq Osterly investigation.

L-I'll be there. Should I reserve a place for her down here? Sorry, that was out of line, but seriously...

The Father-Why does there still seem to be good in her? These are the hardest ones to send your way. The ones who have good left in them. I hate it sometimes. Saying goodbye. I mean, yeah, I go and visit them and pray everynight before I go to bed, myself, but I wish sometimes everyone could just come and hang out with me.

L-Like me?

The Father-You're down there for a reason.

L-I know. I'll be there in a few minutes.

Once He hangs up with L, The Father sees Katelyn walk into His office and smile brightly at Him.

Katelyn Socoroa-Honey, what's Dan doing sitting a few feet away from Mythaq Osterly? Did they make up?

The Father-It's temporary. Very temporary. Are you ready?

Katelyn-Yeah. I notifyed Countess Dashia. She's gathered up the North Iley Starfleet in case we have trouble. Anda Quorell, Captain Lena'Je, and Princess Avonlie are leading the squadron.

The Father-Good. Does Alia know?

Katelyn-Yes and no. I had Terrah Qui'Jel send her an email. She's still preparing the reconstruction of North Iley. I hear it's going to be operational by the next novel.

The Father-Katie, that's my comlink. It's Dan.

He opens the phone to answer.

Dan-Are you there?

The Father-Yeah. I'm on my way.

There is a long pause.

Dan-I can't sit here any more I want to cry. I know I've got some friends here. I want to cry right the Hell now.

The Father-She didn't sit by you, right? Is that what it is. I'm not watching the monitor, but I can tell by your feeble tone of voice. I'll sit by you when I get there. Don't worry.

Dan-Please come down here. I can't take this anymore. I can see her, it sucks cause I want to go up and hold her in my arms, but I can't. She's not sitting by me and I don't want to cause trouble. I guess I'm just used to her holding my hand. I look a little shabby sititng here with my candle and jacket. But I brought a card for her.

He feels a tap on his shoulder. Turns around. And sees The Father, with Katelyn, asking him to scoot over on the pew.

Katelyn-Shh. My husband shaved real quick before we left.

The Father-I think I cut myself, too.

Dan-Thanks for coming.

The Father-Not a problem. I wasn't going to tell you, but Oscar Vega might be here.

A woman motions for the row to walk up for communion.

The Father-Wait, the service is almost over. Did you already sing with the candles?

Dan-Yeah, a couple minutes before I called you.

The Father-And she didn't stand by you?

Dan-No. I kept thinking this whole night was going to be a trainwreck.

The Father-Is there still a spark? You know like 'Cross Shatter Eye.'

Dan-I guess we'll see. Her and I haven't made actual eye contact, yet.

One of the ushers taps Katelyn on the shoulder and motions for her and her two friends to walk up to the front, directly in front of Mythaq. The usher, however, doesn't recognize The Father for some reason.

Pastor Osc-Hello there, do you want grape juice or wine?

Dan-Grape juice. Thank you.

The Pastor moves next in the line to Katelyn.

Katelyn-I'll have the wine.

Once it sinks in who's standing next to Katelyn, the pastor takes a deep breath and asks The Father the same question.

The Father-I'll have the one that isn't poisoned.

He manages to sneak a smile toward the mysterious pastor.

Under his breath, Pastor Osc lets slip his identity.

Pastor Osc-I hope your friend chose the one that wasn't poisoned. I can't remember which poisoned communion cup I stuck in there.

Katelyn manages to tap Dan on the shoulder out of view in order to prevent him from swallowing the drink.

As the Father walks to His seat, the pastor hears Him let a few more things slip.

The Father-A starfleet will be decloaked outside if anything happens.

Once back at everyone's seat, The Father realizes that Joseph and Mary and next to go up for their communion.

The Father-This is going to be fun, look.

Mary seems to not want any part of the communion.

Joseph-I'm sorry, my wife and I are going to decline this part of the service.

Pastor Osc-You don't have to be a member.

Joseph-I know. I'm here to celebrate the birthday of my step Son.

Pastor Osc-So why not take part in this?

Joseph-It's a personal choice. I'm sorry I couldn't have been there to see it live. When He was passing the bread and cup around.

Pastor Osc-Very well. Please make your way back to your seats.

Katelyn notices Dan crying, pretty hard now.

Katelyn-What's wrong?

Dan-She smiled at me when we made eye contact. This might not be so bad after all. I do exist in her eyes. I'm crying tears of joy that I hope don't turn into tears of hurt. I feel relieved, but at the same time cautious.

The Father-We all are. Trust me. The North Iley Starfleet is waiting outside under a heavy cloaking device. Just in case.

It was at that moment, honey, that I realized all was lost. I sat there with my jacket and I wanted to leave. It was pointless to stay. If you're just going to sit up by someone else there's no point in me staying. I could've done this for anyone else in the world, but I'm here for you. To fix what we had. What we also destroyed. Both you and I. I wasn't expecting a miracle. Well, maybe I was, I mean it is Christmas Eve and all and anything's possible on Christmas Eve, right. All I know is that I told my Godparents I'd show up for dinner tomorrow and depending on how tonight goes, and if I make it to the dance club with my heart unbroken is up to you. Why am I still missing you and sitting here again after the day you made me cry here the last time. I don't and never will know your intentions for that, but I just don't want it to happen again. I've never see evil like I saw that afternoon. The look you gave me. The spark we had was truly gone at that split second. I'm fearing it's gone now.

All I know is that I brought a Christmas card for you. However shabby it might look. I know it came out of the box of 32 for $2.00, but still it's the thought that counts and this is turing out to be a desperate time for me. With my car overheating on a whim and my finances falling out of orbit, I can't buy you anything more than this card and my presence here tonight.

The fog over here was bad. I could barely see. It's a good thing I always wear my glasses to drive. I would've hated to have gotten into an accident. Maybe that would've been the icing on the cake. I'm sure there's people who wish I would just roll another car into a corn field, but not you. Deep down I always believed you cared about me. The tone of your voice the other day on the phone lead me to believe you haven't written me off as a loss. A total loss. Dear, we could have anything we want. I can help you. I swear I can. Not so much with money, I find myself still counting pennies in order to pick up some instant soup, but that's not what matters. I'm not going to pretend, like you seemed to, that God lied to me that night at the bookstore when He told me I was with the woman He chose for me. I guess I clung onto hope too much. It sucks, I know, when you can't get it in your head that someone was originally out to break your heart.

I managed to give up three relationships for this one moment and now they're doing the final songs in the service and I have no idea how my life is going to pan out from this moment until I reach my dance club. I should say screw it and hop on a plane to 'Club Cross Shatter Eye' and never see any of these people again. Wait, here you come. I hope I know the right words to say.

I am walking toward you. Your sitting down, minus the guy you were sitting by. I don't know if I want to be peaceful or lash out at why you broke my heart or let you see me cry. My tears might look like one of those wrestlers I watch after they've bladed themselves. Only my crimson mask would be freshly falling tears. I have no idea how I'm going to get through this moment and set of moments.

I know it's going to be hard for you, too. I mean whatever you think of me after all these months of not seeing me must be tying your heart in bows. I know it wasn't easy to get up there and sing with me only a few rows back half crying and half clapping for you. I remember the first time you brought me here. No matter how real or blatent this sounds, I wanted that one weekend to last a forever. It could've. The rug was pulled out from under me and I didn't know how to handle it. I messed up and assumed you were going to pull the rug out. Maybe you never were going to. Maybe I made too much out of it. Maybe I should've found you before I got 'sort of' married several years ago. I drove here watching the car overheat and in the fog and hoping for a miracle. Maybe that's my problem. I can't fabricate stories. I can't pretend things didn't happen. Like you holding my hand through the first church service that really mattered to me. I'm sure The Father was looking down on us and I'm sure He was happy. I'm sure He was unhappy when we split up. I'm sure He was crying along with me.

Dan-I hate to sound like your biggest fan, but you should have an entire opera hall to yourself. You sing beautiful.

Mythaq-Thank you. How are you?

Dan-I just got a mug! From one of the ladies here. And a folder and yeah, I think they took the candle I used during 'Silent Night.'

Mythaq-Did you like the service?

Dan-It was amazing.

Mythaq-Do you want to help me carry some things to the car?

The Father hearing this on Dan's comlink, which had been switched on, sends a hand signal to L who has so far remained out of view in the lobby of the church.

More people are introduced to Dan, in the presence of the mysterious Pastor Osc. None of this matters to Dan, as he is still in awe to be even in the same conversaiton with her.

She walks out of view to get her jacket, or so he thinks, as he patiently waits for her.

Once out of view, she uses her own cell phone to make a surprise call.

Mr. Corda'lie-Do you have the statues?

Mythaq-I do. 25 of them. In my car.

Mr. Corda'lie-Empress Alia is to pay for evicting me from my C'ila real estate.

Mythaq-Understood. I will deliver them to their new owners. It's Christmas Eve, remember.

Mr. Corda'lie-Can you go through with hurting Dan?

Mythaq-I've done it so often it's easy by now.

Mr. Corda'lie-Don't let him sweet talk you. This is between us and the empress. Not Dan.

Mythaq-I can't stand seeing him cry. He really did fall for me. Now this is the end of that. I have to play the 'heel' here. I have to cut him open again. I don't know how I'm going to do it. I bet he sang his songs with headphones on and watched wrestling matches to get ready to see me and be around the woman he fully believes is here to rescue his heart. I don't know if I can, my friend.

Mr. Corda'lie-I've already paid you 5 million dollars. Remember your house? Your new car? Your assets? Your position here at the church? If you don't break Dan Sherrill's heart and you run away with him tonight, they will find you. My men will comb the globe for you. In the middle of the night.

Mythaq-Yeah, but I will have to live with it. It's not Dan's blood on your hands. The blood out of his heart is going to be on mine, not yours. The Father and Jesus are here. How can I stand in front of them and their presence and do this one last crime?

Mr. Corda'lie-Your brother, Alex, remember? His life depends on it.

Mythaq-I have to go and deliver these statues. I have to put The Father out of business.

Mr. Corda'lie-Thank you, Mythaq. Keep your head up and don't let him see you cry. I'll send Oscar out to keep an eye on you, just in case you back out and fall in love with Dan again.

She walks from the hallway dessed for the December night and walks first out the main church door, but holds it for Dan.

Once outside things seem peaceful for a few seconds.

Pastor Osc, still dressed in his white collar from the service secretly has followed Dan and Mythaq out to their cars, which are parked next to each other. Dan doesn't notice it at first until he is loading her belongings into her car.

Dan-We should go and sing Christmas carols at some of these houses.

Mythaq-I'm sorry, I didn't catch that, what did you say? What are you doing after this?

Dan-I don't know. Maybe going dancing.

What was I supposed to say, that I wanted to go back to your house and hang out and talk and clear the air and kiss and pick up where we left off? That would be a dream come true.

Still carrying the folder and mug from earlier he decided to walk both back to his car. Since the door lock on the drivers side doesn't work, he has to go unlock it from the passenger's side.

Once the things are placed on the seat and the door shut, he walks back with the Christmas card in his hand waiting for the right moment to give it to her, as he looks over and sees her getting into her car. To leave. Verdict-Trainwreck!

Wait a second. She speaks.

Mythaq-Dan, I'll see you another time. Goodbye.

The pastor is still standing by her and her car. Almost putting on a show. Blocking true love. Isn't that a federal offense somewhere? I don't know. All I know is I'm going to deliver this card if it kills my heart. I have so much in me right now to ask her to freakin' marry me right now. Hey, at least there would be a witness. Even if this is Oscar Vega and even if there's been this big plan all along to break my world apart. Maybe the mystery of what I wrote in the card is enough to bring out the good in her. And maybe she'll realize that I was smart enough to kiss the envelope once I sealed it.

No, it's not a proposal, but some brutally honest feelings. I want to thank you for having me here in the first place and talking to me nice on the phone, but I don't want to thank you for treating me like steerage once we finally saw each other again.

He races from his car and walks toward hers, but sees the pastor glare at him, as if he is tampering with the already scheduled plans for the night.

He looks on with a questioning look as Mythaq doesn't tell Dan to get lost, just yet.

Dan-When do you think I'll get to see you again?

Her face is fragile, but cold at the same time. Not knowing how to answer. Not knowing that this is the last time they'll see each other and knowing he is offering his heart one last pittiful time.

Mythaq-I...um...I really don't know. I have to go now.

He reaches to hold her hand one last time, in his. Wanting so badly to blurt out the proposal he can to give to her, knowing full well a pastor is standing all over 5 inches from the conversation. Looking like an overprotective military guard.

He reaches out with his right hand to hold hers, but in a split second once their hands touch, she manages to change it to a formal handshake.

Pastor Osc smiles in approval.

Dan takes one look at him with a 'watch this' look on his face, then turns to Mythaq, one final time and lets go.

The Father and Katelyn are seen walking toward the conversation.

Katelyn-Back off Vega! Give them 5 seconds!

Pastor Osc removes his disguise and is fully revealed.

Oscar Vega-We have a mission. To put you out of business, my friend.

Jesus and Brittany walk out of her car and toward Oscar.

At this point, in front of the now fully unveiled Oscar Vega, he makes his final statement to her beautiful face, while still holding onto their handshake.

Dan-I adore you.

He almost breaks down and cries right then and there. The only thing that stops him is the fact that she accepted his Christmas card and it will speak for itself, if it's opened.

She hurries herself out of the parking lot. Never to be seen again.

This leaves Dan a mess. On one hand he's got his cell phone, but on the other hand the drive back to East Kaesa for her would last another hour or so.

Gayle is seen racing toward Oscar Vega with a stiniging slap across his face.

Gayle-How dare you!

Joseph and Mary walk toward where Dan is standing. Alone by his car and hoping for the chance to say just a few more things to his beloved. He's already needing a tissue to wipe away tears.

Mary-This is not right. What happened tonite is not right by anyone's standards. How can she just get away with this.

Dan-I'm going dancing now, but not before leaving her a message. Can we all meet on New Iley, it's out of the way, but please do this for me. I may be too fragile to get through this night which is supposed to be all happy and everything. I feel miserable that I got hurt on Christmas Eve. In four hours it'll be midnight and the Hell with this trainwreck of a night.

Mary-Are you sure you want to take the drive to New Iley alone?

Dan-Just give me a few minutes to park and leave a message for her.

Jesus-I'll see you guys tomorrow. I'm still putting the finishing touches on North Iley and getting it ready for its reconstruction.

Brittany-Don't leave a proposal on her recorder again. She's not worth it. Just go dancing tonight. Maybe you should sing karaoke or something. Be good.

She leaves her brother with a hug.

Jesus and his friend Brittany leave in a flash of light, and return to their apartment in Heaven.

Mary and Joseph are the next to say goodbye.

Joseph-As much as I want to advise on what to do from here I just hope this doesn't ruin Christmas for you. You might want to cancel any plans you have for tomorrow. You're not going to be in any shape to commit to anything or anyone after this.

Mary-Hey, you've always got us. And, well, lots of fish in the sea. Maybe you'll find one tonight. I'm supposed to go to cooking class with Timothy later. Otherwise I'd go with you to your dance club and club dance, but I can't miss any more days. I had the flu for a while, and poor Timothy had to take notes for me, while he was trying to teach. Take care and stop by and see me and Joseph when you can.

Dan-I will and thanks for coming. I think I just need to sit in my car for a while and collect my heart and my thoughts for a few minutes. It's still too early to go dancing.

Gayle-I have to get going, too. I'm sorry this had to happen to you. I have some Christmas cookies to deliver. Not some evil statues. Thank God. It's nice to meet you Mary, and you, too, Joseph. You're much cooler in real life than just in paintings.

Mary-Those things bother me, too. Those statues. It's so wierd. How'd you like to wake up and know people are worshiping them instead of my Kid. It's a wake up call.

Gayle-Let me know if I can help.

Mary-I will, and thanks.

Gayle-Bye, Dan.

Dan-Goodnight. I'm sure I'll see you online or something. Thanks again for listening and coming here for me. It means a lot.

Gayle-Anytime, Danny.

Mary and Joseph, like the others leave in a flash of light, only Katelyn and The Father remain. And the entire North Iley Starfleet in orbit and under a cloaking device, just in case.

The church members and visitors have all driven home, unaware of what went on in the parking lot.

Katelyn-We're going to leave you to your dancing and your sorrow. I think it's best we not get in the way.

The Father-Just don't get pulled over on your suspended plates. Doesn't Julia live around here?

Dan-Yeah, she does.

The Father-She's no longer Iley, but maybe she'll lend you an ear. This isn't something I can help you with. You have to do this healing of your heart on your own. I wish sometimes I could just rattle off how your life is going to turn out, but I can't. I know Mythaq meant so much to you. I know this. I watched it unfold in Heaven and by your side.

Dan-I'm not mad at you. I swear I'm not.

Tears fall.

Dan-Just don't leave me. Okay. Promise?

The Father-I promise.

Dan-Good, because I really need you in my life right now. I just lost the one I thought came from you, and I know you're thinking this is going to tamper with my faith in you, but it's not going to. I'm not going to go out drinking or anything or roll another car, but I am going to seriously clean out some of the cobwebs that take up my heart. I know an angel in Texas, but other than that I'm not looking for anyone for a while after this. I say this now and later a 5'11 tall blonde cowgirl might show up and capture what's left of my heart. Who knows? I'm done with Mythaq. I'm just going to leave her one last message, because I know she's not home yet and It's over. Maybe I'll write the next 'Alia and the Boy' about tonight, but one thing's for sure I'm still a believer in you.

The Father-Goodnight, Dan. Thanks for your support.

L walks closer to the conversation.

L-Hey, kid, I called off the Starfleet. She's on her way home and Vega got a ride from someone else. Did you know it was him?

Dan-I kind of figured it was. Who else would've forced his way into my last conversation with her. I don't even care if it was Oscar Vega or not. I was just glad to spend a few minutes with Mythaq.

L-I'm always there if you need to talk. Out of character, of course.

Dan leaves the church parking lot and drives toward New Iley. At the first stop light he dials the number and waits for her voice to dive into his ear. Even her voicemail greeting makes him cry.

Dan-I just wanted to say thank you for having me there tonight. It was the best Christmas present anyone's given me. I still...I still love you, Mythaq. I love you. You're an extrordinary woman. I guess I just wanted you to know that one last time.

The time runs out on the message and he hangs up.

He drive past New Iley and over close to Kaesa, where Julia lives and tries her number, but by now tears are falling quicker and quicker down his face.

He gets her recorder, too.

Dan-This is me. I was in the neighborhood and something happened to me tonight. I just thought you could lend me a few minutes. To your old friend. I'm really crying right now, aren't I? I've had a really awful night and I don't know, I guess I really need someone to talk to.

Several other Ileys are getting voicemails before another dial of his cell phone produces Mythaq on his caller ID. He'd added her back to his phone contacts after their recent talk.

Her voice is again heard on her voice mail.

Dan-I just wanted to say again that I love you and I always will. We had everything in the world for such a short time. I'm sorry if it's breaking my heart seeing you leave again. I know I wasn't expecting anything and I know I told you that, but I would give anything. Anything in the world to fix what is broken and move away from it. I hope someday it can be. It's not impossible, honey...

Again, he's in tears.

Dan-Merry Christmas, Mythaq Osterly. I love you so much.

Two is enough, she's probably home already.

There's one more thing to say. It's hard to know how much time these things can hold, but this is the last one. I'm trying so hard not to say will you marry me.

Dan-I just wanted to leave you this one last message. I remember when we were on New Iley together. Having ice cream and kissing and crying together and praying and being perfect. Why did it have to end. Were you just pretending? Were you? Why, then, did you choose me to pretend with? Did you really just need someone to hold hands with to know what it feels like? Well, to me it felt pretty good. I'll never forget you. I love you with all of my heart. Always.

As soon as the button is pressed and the message was recorded he tries to reach several other Ileys, when none can be found he starts the car and pulls out of the parking lot of one of the marketplaces on New Iley, prepared to never speak the name Mythaq Osterly again.

Finding hardly anywhere is full he decided to drive himself to the dance club early. Once in the parking area he notices there are only about 30 cars in the lot. Deciding to just take a nap in his car is whats on his mind. So he turns off the lights and lays the seat down to rest his heart. For a little while. Not noticing that his singing friend, Gabe, has pulled up in front of him with his girlfriend.

Gabe-That's Dan isn't it?

Plate Johanna-Yeah, it is. You guys sing at karaoke.

Gabe-I should wake him up, but what the Hell this place is dead anyway.

Plate-He'll be alright. Maybe just had a long night.

Someone does, in fact, knock on his window a few minutes later.

Tryna Fluid-Dan, wake up.

He stirs, having fallen fast asleep, not realizing that an hour has passed.

Dan-Tryna, what are you doing here?

Tryna-I was monitoring the whole night in Heaven. I'm here to tell you that she definitly went home and I couldn't hear, but I think she did hear your voicemails. I don't know.

Dan-Thanks. Here, I'll unlock the door.

She finds her way into his passenger seat.

Tryna-Starter and Tyrone know. They send their best wishes on your difficult night. I wanted to wait until everyone was out of sight.

A car pulls up next to Dan's.

Tryna-Who's that?

Dan-It's Joseph S.

Tryna-Do I know him?

Dan-Maybe. He discovered a religious artifact, or should I say, set of artifacts. I got to know him a couple of months ago. He's set in his ways, but still an alright friend.

Dan rolls the window down to reveal a stressed out and crying Joseph S.

Joseph S.-They're gone!

Dan-What?

Joseph S.-The plates. They're not where they used to be.

Dan-Are you sure?

Joseph S.-I've looked everywhere.

Tryna-What plates? You mean your dishes?

Dan-No, Tryna. He found these plate things with ancient writing. From the America's. Apparently Jesus hung out there for a while a long time ago. Anyway, do you have any idea who would've taken them?

Joseph S.-No.

Dan-It's almost midnight. Let's go inside.

The three of them make their way into the dance club. Joseph S. is almost shaking when he hands the bouncer his ID card.

Justice Qal-You're friend okay?

Dan-Yeah, he's alright. We've all had a long night. Trust me, he doesn't drink.

Justice-Just keep an eye on him. There aren't many people here, but no trouble you hear.

Dan-We're fine. Plus I have the sister of an attorney with me. Don't you recognize my other friend?

Justice-He's a little familiar. Wait. I have seen you. In a book or something. One night some ladies came over and gave me some paperwork and a thick blue book. I read some of it. You had some strange dreams, my friend.

Joseph S.-That was a long time ago. This is tonight. Christmas Eve.

Tryna-Dan, I just remembered that this is where the famous 'Cross Shatter Eye' took place. This is where you met Mythaq, back in March, right?

Dan-Sadly. It seems like a tomb now.

Tryna-Do you htink she has it in her heart to come here? She knows you are going to be here.

Dan-I don't know if she fully has a heart at all.

Gabe walks close to the three of them.

Plate walks with him.

Gabe-Did you have a good nap in your car?

Dan-It's been a long night. I got my heart broken tonight. Really badly.

Gabe-Maybe you'll find a cute cowgirl here. There ain't much in the way of choices, but at least you can score a few points. I know you keep track of how many girls you dance with, so start keeping score. Hey, if your ex shows up security can ask her to leave if your not ready to see her.

Dan-Yeah. I know. She won't though. That's not her style.

Gabe-Your friend looks like he just got beat up. Look at the scratch marks on his neck.

Dan-I didn't notice that.

He walks back to where Joseph S. is standing with Tryna.

Dan-Tell me what happened to you tonight and why you showed up here by my car and crying.

Joseph S.-No. I can't. The plates are gone. All of them.

Dan-Did you fight over them?

Joseph S.-I don't know. I was knocked in the head pretty hard.

Dan-Was it a he or a she?

Joseph S.-A she.

Dan-Hold that thought, my comlink is going off.

It flashes Empress Alia's name.

Empress Alia-Dan, I need you here, on Iley. It's finished. There's one thing. I need to be strong when I tell you this. Someone is missing from the North Iley Starfleet. A woman. I have interviewed several captains and pilots. In March a member of the Star Fleet broke away and stole a bunch of money from our safe.

Dan-Do they have any suspects?

Alia-Only one. A former assasin. Zisha.

Dan-What does that have to do with anything?

Alia-When you saw Mythaq Osterly tonight, did she seem distacted? Did she have any symbols or emblems on her. I mean her clothes?

Dan-Not that I saw.

Tryna grabs the comlink from Dan.

Alia-Dan?

Tryna-It's Tryna Fluid. Starter and Tyrone watched the monitor in Heaven during the ordeal earlier. The hat that Mythaq was wearing outside. It had an 'N' on it. I don't think Dan was looking for it, but I saw it.

Alia-It can only mean one thing.

Tryna-And that is?

Alia-She's a Nelari. The evil nemesis of the Ileys. It dates back to the creation of the first planet, Iley. 1998 or so. There's been a price on Aaron Deschanel's head for about eight years. By a group of Nelari Hunters.

Tryna-How much?

Alia-19 Million.

Tryna-Why didn't they kidnap him at the church earlier?

Alia-Because he was there as Dan, not Aaron. Even though they are the same person, they can't kidnap him out of his North Iley character. She's been working for Mr. Corda'lie, who I evicted from C'ila when I bought some territory there. He's hated me ever since. This was his way of getting back at me. It's all in who you know. I hate for these things to happen. I need to regain my throne. Iley must be operational. Tonight.

Tryna-Joseph S. is here. Someone took his plates. Whatever that means. He's been freaking out ever since we got here.

Alia-It's part of the bigger picture. Mythaq, or Zisha as she's actually known, was never related to the Osterly family. I've been researching this. It's been a sham. A con. A hoax, if you will.

Tryna-How do we get this guy's plates back, whatever they are?

Alia-Round up your brothers. I'm calling a meeting in Heaven. My kingdom will be instantly rehydrated.

The empress asks Tryna to hand the comlink to Joseph S.

Joseph S.-They're gone. All of them.

Alia-I know. The Father is going to help you out on this one. You have the support of Heaven, which on one hand surprises me, but on the other hand, doesn't. They're good people, you know.

Joseph S.-I know. I mean, I haven't met all of the people from the Bible, yet. But, I'm always really nice to the ones I've gotten to know. Like Matthew and Mary Magdale.

Alia-Tell me what you remember.

Joseph S.-I was visiting them. Only me and a few other people know the location of the plates.

Alia-I think it was Zisha. She's evil. She conned Dan out of his heart and I think your prized possesion.

Joseph S.-The Father will find them, right?

Alia-Yeah, don't worry about that.

The next night he is alone in his apartment TV room and dials the number to the church. To apologize for the disguised pastor and the Nelari Hunter, Zisha.

To his surprise, Oscar Vega's voice is still on his voice mail. Pretending not to know it was really him, Dan leaves a message. Not leaving his own name or return number. Midway through it, he wants to cry, still knowing that he is only pretending that this pastor's voicemail is going to a real pastor of God. Unfortunatly, it's going to be picked up by an evil man. Someone who would stand in the way or true love. Weather Mythaq is really named Zisha and that she is really a Nelari Hunter. None of that matters as he is trying to put everything into perspective, while apologizing for the actions of his beloved and apologizing for not readily wanting to come back to their church or any church for a long time.

There's no response.

The next night, the feeling comes over him again to leave one more message. And then that's it, he thinks. The whole thing. The whole March through December thing is over at the end of this message. No matter who picks it up, I'll know that it was delivered in a confidential way. No matter who it's ever played for.

It's a sad one that ends with him telling the pastor that it's never fun getting your heart broken on Christmas Eve. As if half expecting him to pick up in the middle of it, a few tears are shed at the end of the message. It said, like the last one, that he'll never talk to Mythaq again. And will move on and not let it affect his faith in God.

He walks outside to the dumpster and throws the folder with numbers and brochures and bulletin with her name on it as being a Candlelight service performer straight to the bottom of the just emptied trash collector.

Next the visitor mug smashes into a thousand pieces with all of his might, to be taken by the garbage man in either Monday or Tuesday morning.

As he stands by the dumpster listening to the mug break, he remembers dancing with the most beautiful cowgirl at the county line dance club Christmas Eve night, while keeping an eye on Joseph S. and Tryna. 'It was amazing,' he thinks to himself. 'She was so sweet to me once I told her I had just gotten my heart broken by a Sunday School Teacher earlier in the night.' She just smiled and we kept dancing. At least I was honest with her.

Dear Mythaq, or whatever your name is it's January 12th and I have been trying to come up with some way to forgive you for hurting me, but I can't. The hurt is too great and too much in the open now to consider trying to explain to myself how you could be so cold. You have my work number and my cell number and my email and nothing. Isn't that the coldest thing you could do? Just leave without a trace. I can't explain how much you loved me at first, it made me a little uneasy the way you clung to me for dear life in the beginning, and then casted me aside like an abandoned friend. Looking back, the night in question is starting to fade from my memory as you have, too. I don't know how I'd feel if I ever saw you again. I guess awkward. I wish I could've stayed in your heart, but you saw to it that the opposite happened. It wasn't fun, trust me. Sitting by myself at that service and wishing and hoping you'd be woman enough to come sit by me. I was invited, remember. By you. Not to mention me cancelling out on my Godparents for dinner the next day hurt me to have to do, but I guess I wasn't really up for much more than just watching TV and trying to put the life I had on hold for you back together. I could call you at any time, and if you picked up again I'd probably be at a loss as to what to say, so I'm just going to write to you here where loads of people will eventually read it. I'm still hurt. I'm still hurt by you.

I'm changing your name in 'Alia and the Boy' from Mythaq to Zisha, while I'm listening to Divine Invitation sing 'Spirit of God.' I want to cry. I found them on a social network I subscribe to. They're from Iley. I guess I'm changing your name so I don't have to think about this any longer. I watched the good you brought to me destroy three possibly good relationships and I'm done with it. There, now everyone knows. I smashed the mug to pieces because I wanted it to symbolize just how done with you I am. I've had the urge to forgive you for ruining my Christmas a few times, but I can't do that either, because then it makes me want to forgive you for kissing me when you didn't mean it, and pretending to enjoy introducing me to your friends and pretending to like me, when no one else liked me. I keep trying to believe that there is good in you. I keep writing these novels trying to find out for myself if there is any good left in someone so fragile and evil, but finally today I can't seem to even want to do that anymore either.

I probably will see you or think of you eventually, if this story is read my loads of people then they'll ask why? Why did we break up or separate. The truth is I don't know. I'll never know. You're not the first person to crack open my heart. You just made me question my faith in God, which I didn't need either. I was sure of it as sure as I'm a Christian that you were the right one for me. You looked the part. You acted the part and showed me your heart and your love for two short months and then it all came to an end, as I stodd outside in the rain and tried and begged you to stay with me and to please not discard me along with the recycling.

It barely worked. I'm sorry I ever kissed you. I say that, but if you had offered me one on Christmas Eve night I would've accepted it from you. You're damned right. I guess the last phone call we shared will have to satisfy the hole in my heart you left.

I write novels and then have great intentions on plot things and casts and whatever, but I can't replace you. I've tried. I tried three times since you and I broke up with them. None of it worked. It wasn't about replacing you at first, but them after a while that's what it turned into. No one can come close to how well you treated me, but no one can come close to how much you hurt my heart. That's the part I don't get. How can someone so close to God be so cruel? There, I said it. I was scared to say it before, but here you go. That's the one million dollar question that I've saved up. How can you be so cruel, lady, as to see me show up, as asked, and to cheer for you and cry for you and stand there and smile at you. How then can you be so cruel as to just brush me off as just someone in the crowd? Well, that someone in the crowd loves you dearly even to this day. I've been reluctant to try to replace you again. I know it can't be done. So I pick up my shabby and pittiful heart and move on. Not going to binge eat anymore. Not going to stay up and wait for the caller ID to flash your beautiful name. Not going to do any of it. I'm sure once the next story about Wooden Box Theater is in the paper people will log on and read 'Alia and the Boy' and they'll know, too. I can't write fiction too good, honey.

God, why can't I just call you and make everything better? It's because I'm not perfect. I'll start a conversation with you that I know will result in you asking me why I left those messages for the pastor to listen to. I wanted someone to know what you did to me. How I put my life on hold for someone who turned out ungrateful. I hurt the hearts of three innocent women because of my loyalty to the spark we found that we had. It's gone. One of them won't even talk to me. Well, two of them. I'm not sure on the other one, but don't you dare leave another conversation with me in a 'To be continued' sort of way. I hated it when you hung up on me this past summer, and I hated it, almost, when we were nice to each other.

The Christian in me wants so hard to call you and forgive you and start over, but that's pretty superficial at this point.

So far I haven't heard back from you since Christmas Eve, I doubt I ever will until I make the first move again. Maybe in a year or so. Hopefully you're not married. Hopefully you'll even remember me. The one you loved so much at first and then just discarded. Maybe 'Cross Shatter Eye' night was a fluke. Maybe it was an out of the ordinary thing that just happened out of the blue.

I meet lots of girls at the country line dance club. Some cool. Some drunk. Some very drunk. I know the country DJ and the karaoke DJ's. They rock. I've danced with loads of girls. I usually keep track of my karaoke singing when I go out. But what made meeting you so out of the ordinary was because it was unplanned. What's another Christian doing in a line dance club? Especially someone so beautiful. I needed the rest of the plot for the second part of the two part miniseries I was working on, and there, I had it. Beautiful woman comes from out of the blue to capture my heart.

I still remember the day you called me. I was sad I couldn't have been there to take that first call. How did we ever get so far away from that? You used to call me at work. It was awesome. Maybe I jinxed it by telling people. Maybe I was a little too excited to be in the company of a real life angel.

I've been thinking about this a lot and I'm ready to say goodbye to you, if only in this story and not on the phone or in person. Trust me, at least there will be witnesses. Weather in Heaven or otherwise. There's a part of me that will always miss you and wonder if your happy with your choice to leave me. I haven't been happy. Not since the night we talked in the rain at the gas station pay phone. All I remember is freezing, and having to keep going inside and begging them for quarters as you and I both cried openly over the phone. I remember that night very clear. I didn't want to give up on you. I would've given up anything I have or ever have to have been able to have driven all the way to East Kaesa to have held you in my arms. We would've been fine. We were never fine on the phone. Too much separation, I guess.

Did you know that we never got along on the phone? It was always a struggle with us. Maybe because I didn't have a phone when we met or because they cracked down on personal calls at work and I got in trouble for you calling me so much at first, but I didn't mind. I would've gladly gotten wrote up if it meant you would always have been there to call me. I'm so sorry I rushed you off the phone that one time. One of the last times you called. They had just put a temporary ban on personal calls and the supervisor was standing right by my desk when your name came up on the phone. I hated to rush you. I hated it so much.

My honest opinion of Christmas Eve is to forgive you and say 'hey, it's over and water under the bridge,' but we both know it would come up later. Like the fact that when we talked last time I never mentioned the day I saw your evil side at that very location. I admit I'd sent you a letter that wasn't too nice along with, well, along with your place in my heart back after we fought the night before. It was an impulse thing. It truly was. I didn't want to believe you could be so hurtful, like I can't believe now. Months and months later. You must've had some sort of motivation.

Something must've gotten to you. As evil as you are, you are at the same time amazing and beautiful and perfect. This I can't understand. I never could, honey.

I'll leave you with a few thoughts before I forget how to quite pronounce your name. Which I held so dear for so long. I want to pretend in my heart that it never happend, but I can't do that either. Too many people know about us. Too many people know what you did to me. My Godmother knows, now, after a long conversation we had as to why I wasn't at dinner on the 25th. I just flat out told her I couldn't take anything like that at the moment. I'd just gotten my heart broken the night before and didn't really want to see anyone, let alone a family dinner. Those are supposed to be happy, and I clearly was not happy.

I hope you had a good New Years Eve. I saw Gabe and the group down at the line dance club. It was fun. God, why do I miss you so much? Why? When you could do nothing but hurt me, why do I miss you so much? We didn't do anything more than kiss and hold hands. Well, a lot. It shouldn't be this hard to say goodbye. It's never been this hard before. Maybe it's because you're a hard one to just write off.

I've written off women I've dated for much longer than I was with you. If that's what you'd call it. We just sort of had extraordinary experiences together. Fireworks would go off. God would smile and the world would be at peace when the two of us were together. I guess all I wanted to know with this novel and this last letter to you, even though I'm including this in my novel, like the the one that starts it, is why you chose me to hurt? That's all, then it'll be over.

Do you do this type of thing with everyone? Build them up and eliminate their heart at the drop of a hat? Is that how you stay in business? That can't possibly be cool to The Father above us. I know He was smiling when we kissed. I just know it. Like I've never known anything. Lady, I don't just cry on command. I'm not an actor. I'm just me. Brutally honest Daniel. I can't lie to you. I can't make up stories for readers. I'm sorry if this one's really personal and all, but what the Hell, huh? You'll never read it. Or maybe you will? Maybe when I'm not looking you'll log on and see that my heart is missing a special loved one. From now on.

Someday you'll remember me. Maybe. The guy you met club dancing. The one who wanted to marry you. The one who fought and cried and held onto the spark we had. It takes two people for the spark to continue on a positive path. You taught me that holding hands is like a tug of war. You told me I was beautiful, once. That you wanted to take all my pain away. As you cried in my arms. Things like that aren't easy to erase. When someone promises and then breaks it to shreds before your eyes. It's hard to live with. What's next? Forgive me for wanting to believe you and your kind words. I've thought about sending you a rose. Even now. When we get paid on friday. Would you reject it? At least I'd get a refund.

All I wanted you to do was love me back like you started out. I remember Christmas Eve from the past and it was never like what I went through this time. Like I said, it's probably my fault for thinking that you were just going to run up and give me a hug or hold my hand again. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry...

(Crying)

Okay, maybe that 'was' what I was hoping for. I don't know. I've been over it over and over again trying to come up with a motive for you to have wanted me there. You could've said 'No.' You could've said don't come. But you were so glad to hear from me when I called you. Why? See, another damned 'To be continued...' conversation.

Somewhere on East Kaesa a tissue box has been cleaned out. A waste basket has been filled with tear filled tissues.

She hits her refresh button on her computer, as the author adds more to his novel.

Make up is running down her eyes and cheeks and onto her shirt.

More and more of his last letter to her is appearing with each press of the refresh button.

She picks up her phone and dials the number.

Zisha Nanc-I can't do this any longer.

Mr. Corda'lie-Has he gotten to you?

Zisha-No. I mean this is my choice. He's writing his damned novel about the ordeal at the church. I can't go on breaking his heart.

Mr. Corda'lie-Then return the statues and I'll have to find another right hand in my quest of putting God out of business.

Zisha-What if I pull out?

Mr. Corda'lie-Then I take your house. Your car. Your identity as Mythaq Osterly and I tell the admiral that he doesn't and never did have a daughter.

She takes several minutes to think it over.

There is a knock on her door.

She walks to answer it, hoping that it's either Dan or Mr. Corda'lie. It's The Father.

The Father-May I come in?

Zisha-Yes.

The Father-Can I have a cup of coffee? Regular, and black please. It's stronger at keeping me awake that way.

Zisha-I know why you're here. Dan's novel is about Christmas Eve, isn't it? I'm reading it as he's writing it. Online. It's pretty good. No one told me I'd be portrayed as a damned villain.

The Father-In wrestling they called what you need a 'face turn.' It means you have the choice to go from being a 'heel' to a 'face' within the span of a few seconds. Dan's cell is turned off until friday. He's got to pay the Illinois Tollway another $208 and some of a student loan and a few other things, including his supervisor for a gas money loan. Dan's in real bad shape.

Zisha-How bad?

The Father-I got a call that he asked about 6 people for gas money at work, just to get himself home. The tollway got about $1,000 of his money for whatever reason, and this thing with his suspended plates isn't making matters easier, and an overheating car. I don't know what he would've done on the way to hear you sing if the car had overheated. It was getting close. He's inches from being so broke that he's risking having to lay down on his bed and cry. On a nightly basis. I know he likes to think he'll be alright once Spring hits, but he's been really bleak lately. Ever since, well, Christmas Eve.

She can barely look at Him, while He's talking. Trying to hold back tears for her beloved.

The Father-I don't know what to do for him. I closely monitored a call he made to his supervisor asking to go home earlier than he had promised and he was crying. I hope he's alright today. I hope he doesn't start binge eating again. I hope...

Zisha-Damn it! Don't say that. He'll be fine. He always is.

The Father's glass mug that He's been drinking out of flies and smashes on the living room wall.

The Father-You're hopeless. Dan's not fine! We've been trying to tell you that for the last four novels. Unless you want to just get away with this and pretend like you didn't betray him and me. I take offense to you trying to get away with this. I cast L down to Hell for something less than what you did to Dan. Now you're able to sit there and read his writing and still after all these months just cast him aside. Pick on someone your own size. You're no universe creator. That woman had a heart. Remember. You obviously don't. You let his words and his writing affect you until you realize that you're falling in love and then you think of some way to hurt someone for loving your fragile heart.

Tears are openly falling down her face, again.

Zisha-What have I done?

The Father-Tell Corda'lie that your coming with me. To Heaven.

He grabs her house phone and holds it up to her.

The Father-If you don't I can't have you over and I'm not listening to any of your prayers. You'll be unwelcome in Heaven.

Zisha-Unwelcome?

The Father-I'll say I never knew you.

Zisha-But you do know me. I sing hymns. I go to church. You know that much. You were there.

The Father-I was there. I'm always there. I was there at the club when you met Dan. I was there at the restaurant watching you guys eat cake together, and him falling in love with you by the second, while holding your precious hand in his. I've stood by idle observing and this way that you have treated him is not right. Not by anyone's standards.

Zisha dials the number. But then sets the phone down.

Zisha-How do I know you're telling me the truth?

The Father-Have I ever been known to lie?

Zisha-Well, no. How come you never told anyone about Jesus having a kid with Mary Magdale, then? And that her name is Sara?

The Father-Excuse me?

Zisha-I saw it on TV.

The Father-That's funny. No one told me, and I'm His father. Consider the source on that one. Brittany is just His friend. Mary Magdale doesn't even hang out with Him anymore. Anyway, call Mr. Corda'lie and call off the statue deal.

Zisha-No! I can't.

The Father-You want to. I feel it in your heart. You know in your heart that you want to make things right with Dan and rid yourself of the bad crowd and break free from these parasites.

Zisha-God, why is this so hard.

The Father-Divorce Mr. Corda'lie...

Zisha stops dead in her tracks, as if a secret has been found out.

The Father-You forget about the omnipresent part. People often do.

There is a knock on her front door.

She walks to check the visitor's identity.

Zisha-It's him.

The Father-Call it off!

He uses his own key to open the door and takes one look at The Father and then at the broken coffee cup, the contents of which are staining the white on her walls.

Mr. Corda'lie-Hand over my wife!

The Father-And the statues?

Mr. Corda'lie-You're no longer going to be relavant to worry about it, once I get them delivered!

The Father-Zisha, please. It's in your heart to be a good person. Remember me. I created you. I created the Heaven's and the Earth. Don't ruin it. I created your soul mate, Dan. He loves you so much. Just read 'Alia and the Boy.'

He walks close to her filing cabinet and surprises Mr. Corda'lie by pulling out a freshly printed copy of 'Title of Fury.'

The Father-See, you do love him. Otherwise you wouldn't have this!

Zisha is seen crying again.

Zisha-Get out!! Both of you!!

The Father-You heard her. Let's take this outside. Don't try anything funny. You know I always win.

Once the door is shut she takes the copy of 'Alia and the Boy: Title of Fury' and begins reading and going back in time in her head to her soul mate's love for her and how strong it is, even today.

Zisha-God, I can't pray to you, so I'll try Jesus.

She dials His number on her still working Iley comlink.

Jesus-Yes?

Zisha-You don't hate me, do you?

Jesus-I'm not happy with you, but I don't hate you, why?

Zisha-I need to talk to you.

Jesus-About what? I'm singing in the choir with Brittany and Timothy later, but I do have a few minutes to talk.

Zisha-Your old man is here. And my husband.

Jesus-Mr. Corda'lie?

Zisha-I never took his last name. We've only been married a year. I met him on C'ila. I'm not related to Admiral Osterly or Alex or the others. I'm a Nelari Hunter. I'm paid to hunt the Ileys down. I'm paid by my husband and Oscar Vega. There, I said it. I'm originally from Nelari.

Jesus-Don't worry, I know. I've known the whole time. Dad did, too.

Zisha-I forget about the omnipresent thing sometimes.

Jesus-Are you ready to leave that lifestyle and regain your place in Heaven?

Zisha-Regain? You mean it's lost?

Jesus-I'm afraid so.

Zisha-Since when?

Jesus-Since May.

Zisha-You mean if I died tonight I wouldn't get to hang out with you guys?

Jesus-If Dad is upset enough He does have to right to restrict someone entering into His kingdom. It is His choice who comes and goes. You have a lot to think about, if you thought you could just waltz back without a care in the world. You better start caring and right now. We'll gladly let you back in, but you have to be on some pretty good behaviour.

She hangs up on him and cries to herself.

Outside, though, The Father feels her try to contact Him.

The Father-She's calling out to me.

Mr. Corda'lie-If not this statue thing, I will come up with a way to put you right out of business. I promise you.

He gets back into his car and skids out of her driveway.

Slowly the doorknob turns and He lets Himself back into her house.

The Father-I'm sorry if I upset you. I guess I haven't slept right since Christmas Eve. There's constantly people telling me through the news and things that they don't believe in Me or My kid anymore. It gets to Me this time of year. It's winter. Winter is always hard for Me.

Zisha-Dan said that he wanted to find a church where they still believed that Your boy was born and that He's real. They do keep trying to write Him out of schools and books and holidays and things.

The Father-Your husband is gone. He just skidded out of here. What are you going to do?

Zisha-Don't push me for an answer.

The Father-I won't. I'm always open to praying. It doesn't involve loud voices or broken coffee mugs.

Zisha-Will you pray with me?

The Father-We'll find a way to get you away from him. Just like we'll find a way to get him to give Joseph S. back his plates. In time. Will you sit with me and pray?

Once again Gayle has been called, in the middle of the night to drive Dan to her doorstep. Hoping she'll let him in, one more time.

Gayle-I don't know how you let me get talked into this.

Dan-I just felt I needed to see her. One more time. I'll scrounge up some gas money for you if she won't talk to me and you have to drive me all the way home to North Iley.

Gayle-It's not that. I just don't want to see you get hurt again. It's not pretty, trust me.

She is reassured by Zisha's Heavenly visitor.

He smiles as He sees her pull up with Dan.

The Father-In four seconds Dan is going to knock on your door.

Zisha-The three of us can pray.

The Father-That's right.

She opens the door for him, and holds him in her arms, for dear life. Again.

Zisha-It's time we prayed together again.

Dan-This time I'm glad The Father is here Himself to listen to us.

Zisha-So it's undisputed.

Dan bows his head in front of The Father.

Dan-Dear God I just pray that Zisha, or whatever her name is, remains one of your followers. I don't care how I met her or what we went through, I forgive her.

Tears fall from his eyes at a rapid rate.

Dan-Thank you for bringing her into my life and blessing me with her friendship and her grace. I love this woman so much. I pray for her all the time. Just like before church on Christmas Eve, even though she would go on to break my heart again, I just pray she has it in her to begin new with me. I'm not asking to get married to her right away, even though I'd love nothing more than that, I'm really fragile myself right now. I hate the financial state I'm in right now. I want out of that before I can return to her and to the place in my heart where she lives forever. Sure, I smashed the mug I got at church to pieces, but rightfully so. I was upset. It's normal. I love this woman with all of my heart. In your name, God, Amen.

He looks up and sees both her and The Father crying.

Then he wipes tears from his own eyes before opening his mouth to speak to her. Something he'd had saved up for months.

Dan-Marry me, Zisha.

He manages to get down on one knee, showing her a hidden engagement ring that he'd kept secret from both her and The Father.

Huge tears are falling from her eyes.

Zisha-I don't know what to say?

Dan-Either a yes or no will do.

Zisha-Nothing with you is 'yes' or 'no' you always pepper everything with whole stories and things. Nothing's ever been as easy as this to answer and yet I almost want to answer you with a long drawn out speech like this novel has been.

Dan-I'm leaving this proposal open to anyone reading to come to their own conclusions about what you and I should do. I love you enough to marry you, Zisha. I love you enough to care for you. I promise I won't let myself be as broke financially as I am right now. I'll kick and scream and kick some more to get out of debt. Hell, I'm only in $3,000 in debt plus some back rent. We can do this.

Zisha-We can. I need time to think.

Dan-No. When you take time, you talk yourself out of things. I know. I do the same thing. Think right now. I know you're married to Mr. Corda'lie in 'Alia and the Boy,' but I'm not talking about that. I'm talking about real life. I'm asking you to marry me. The one thing I set out to do Christmas Eve. It never got done, so I'm doing it now. Let's be done with all this bad stuff and move on. It's the only way either of us is ever going to be happy, my love. I can only ask you with all of my heart, down here on my one knee with this beautiful ring that Alia helped me pick out. Dare I say, please consider it. Weather you're reading this or not, or weather somehow you see it in a few days or a few years. I'll be here. I might be a little lonely, but the one thing is, I'll always keep close the good times we had. Always.

Just then, one of the pilots of flight 778, heading for Panama City, notices that the plane is missing one of its main propellers.

She races to notify the pilot, since no one else has noticed that the plane is not going to have an easy liftoff.

Jacilee Youn-Mister...the plane. It's missing one of its propellers. How will it fly?

He turns to face her.

Oscer Vega-We're not leaving. We're here. Universe 6. The thing you're talking about? It came off during landing.

Jacilee-No, mister. We never left Iley.

Vega-It's that quick of a journey from The Father's universe and my new one! Let him try to find you.

Jacilee-Oh He'll figure it out. Everything is possible with God. Didn't you know?

The End.

Continue to
Alia and the Boy - Plot for the Destruction of a Drawbridge

Special thanks to Loren from the band Lydia, Keith Urban, Bob Sanger, Bayside, Silverstein, my amazing friend Lorel, The staff at the Cadillac Ranch, True Penny, The Villains of Verona, All of our Myspace friends, Ryan from the band The Real You, Dacia and friends at Annex, Jennifer Anger, Sergio from Hemispheres, Glory Nights, Blackout, Purge, LaSalle, Virginia Coalition, Heather Waters, Collide, Genuine Red, Enigma, Last Winter, Punchline, Underoath, Heather and KJ Dan, Kristen and Generations, Eye Butterfly, the 2 Mormon missionary ladies who dropped off the info back in December for answering questions on accuracy, Janet and Emily and the gang down at Ski's. Everyone at the Riverside Pub, JB's and Mark's Place in Sycamore. And anyone who's loaned me gas money recently. It's very much appreciated. It's been a rough winter. Thanks to Jesus the Savior and His Dad, too.

Thanks also to Carolyn, Divine Invitation, and Kandice.

Thanks also to Jeana for her amazing Christmas text message and being a true blessing through a brutally honest period of my life.

In an eye's blink, one of the main propellers of an in orbit jet was secretly removed before seatbelts were fastened...

Plate Johanna, Tryna Fluid and Matches Zaw

Alia and the Boy: Made in Portugal

Marriage Crosses a Frozen Inspector Book 3

Written and directed by Dan Sherrill and Wooden Box Theater

Continue to Alia and the Boy - Plot for the Destruction of a Drawbridge

Marriage Crosses a Frozen Inspector
Book 3

Written and directed by
Dan Sherrill and Wooden Box Theater

Continue to
Alia and the Boy - Plot for the Destruction of a Drawbridge