Joe's sudden disappearance devastated Mary. One hope after another was kindled and extinguished in her life. Deserted again. No message, no phone call. This was too much. "I don't know, dear," Brother Holloway/Glubwart told her. "He just disappeared." Glubwart had Joe's car towed and hidden away. He was glad that the annoying boy was gone.
Brother Sebastian/Snakefoot saw his chance. "This is not a place for a beautiful young girl like you," Snakefoot told her. "You are a special, wonderful, fascinating woman. Come with me. You can help me with my mission."
"With you?" Mary said, wondering, gaping at the strikingly handsome, dark-haired man. "Why do you care about me?"
Brother Sebastian/Snakefoot smiled broadly. "You have far too low an opinion of yourself, my dear. Don't you know you are lovely? I have been watching you these last few weeks. I have grown very attached to you. We're not Catholic, you know." Snakefoot moved closer, put his arm around her. "No vow of celibacy. I have needs and desires, just like any man."
Mary was completely taken aback; unprepared for this. Millions of young women would kill for a catch like this handsome young preacher. Why was he interested in a plain, pregnant teen-ager?
He kissed her gently. "Maybe you doubt me," he said, divining her thoughts. "Let me tell you; I won't deny it – many women seem attracted to me. I suppose it's my position of authority – in the pulpit. They seem drawn to me. I need someone who really needs me – not a religious groupie. I need someone I can trust. I need you."
Mary's head was spinning. It was all happening too fast. Joe shows up unexpectedly – a miracle. Then he's gone again, just like that; no explanation, no goodbye. Can't depend on Joe; can't depend on anyone. Then a proposal from a tall handsome stranger. It was like a bad romantic comedy.
She nodded her head. "I'll go with you," she said listlessly.
No comments:
Post a Comment