Both Ways

by Edward Goble

  Madison made it back to his room on the 4th floor half-expecting Steve Franz to pop out from behind a bush or step onto the elevator. He did neither. “I wonder if he’s even in Dallas.” Madison dialed 411 and got the number for the Chron. “Steve Franz please.” He said.

  “Thank you, please hold.” Madison waited an eternal ten seconds when the operator came back on the line. Mr. Franz is on assignment, I can give you his voice mail or put you through to another reporter.”

  “Never mind. Thanks,” Madison hung up. “On assignment. Maybe he is here. Covering this? He didn’t tell me there was going to be a follow-up series. Could be a good thing.” He tried to sleep, but it was rather early for him. So he lay in bed with his eyes open, looking out at the Dallas lights.

  Chapter 83

  Steve Franz was waiting for the pastor in a corner booth when Madison arrived at 6:55 am. The men shook hands, and Steve invited his guest to take a seat. “I took the liberty of ordering you coffee,” he said.

  “Thanks. Listen, Mr. Franz, I’ve got to be honest with you, I was surprised to hear your voice last night. I had no idea you were covering the conference. Is this for a follow-up story of some kind?”

  “Mmm, you could say that, although I hope not,” Steve said as the coffee was served.

  A few conventioneers walked up to the table and thanked Madison for the challenging message and said they were looking forward to the rest of the conference.

  “So, what then. Attending the conference? Are you married?”

  “I’m not, no. Never slowed down long enough. I’m thinking about it more lately though. Your teaching is very challenging in that regard. I’ve visited Community Chapel a few times recently. Not so much that anyone would notice, but it’s a step for me.”

  “I’m glad you’ve been enjoying it, but that doesn’t really answer the question of why you are here.”

  “Well, I’m kind of following a story - one I hope never gets written.”

  “I don’t follow you.”

  “Sometimes you follow a hunch in order to break a story. Pieces fall into place and the whole thing lays right out before you. The story almost writes itself. It’s how stars are made in my business. Breaking stories sell papers. But then there are the stories that, if you have a conscience, you hope turn out differently that they appear. You hope the pieces don’t fit together and lead you are following corrects its course - and people live happily ever after... That probably doesn’t make any sense.”

  “It sounds like you might be a reporter with a soul.”

  “Don’t tell anyone.”

  “So how can I help?”

  “Maybe more than you realize.”

  “How so?”

  “You know Pastor, the things you teach, about marriage and family specifically, don’t you find the ideals rather archaic?”

  “Archaic?”

  “I mean, are the principles still valid - what, two thousand years after Christ? Heterosexuality, monogamy, fidelity. It’s the twenty-first century, after all.”

  “That’s a great question, Steve. And the short answer is, yes. The same principles that God set forth, not two thousand, but something like six thousand years ago, are just as valid today as the day they were written.”

  “But who can live them? Isn’t it somewhat idealistic to think anyone could actually enjoy a relationship that includes absolute fidelity, complete submission, and transparent honesty. I mean, come on. ‘Do not lust?’ Who can do that? Look around.”

  “But we try.”

  “Is that it, then? The important thing isn’t to succeed, it’s just to try. Trying and failing is better than not trying at all, as they say?”

  “Something like that. But, in Christian terms, it is called grace. God knows that we are weak and make mistakes. That’s why He extends grace to cover our sin. But knowing God is gracious isn’t a license to sin. Rather, knowing He is gracious makes us want to become more holy, making good choices that honor Him and bring Him glory.”

  Steve leaned forward, folding his hand around his coffee mug, “So, is that what you are counting on then, personally? God’s grace?”

  “Absolutely. But, in what sense?” Madison said.

  “Well, in your marriage, in fulfilling your vows to Mrs. Enright.”

  “Oh, yes, without question.”

  “I guess I just don’t understand it then,” Steve said.

  “I’m afraid I’m not following you, Steve.”

  “Well if you just try and fail your whole life, isn’t it just easier to hang the whole thing on a nail and stop trying to fight your urges and feelings? I mean, why bother?”

  “No, it’s not a case of trying and failing your whole life. It may seem that way at first, but as you walk with Christ, the decisions to do the right thing, make the right choices, actually do become easier and more obvious. The Bible says that the two married people become one, and as that happens the other stuff, the childish ways of the lustful teenager, for instance, begin to fade away.”

  “Now I’m the one who’s not following you.”

  “Explain.”

  “If you make better choices as the longer you walk, then what in the world are you thinking?” He let that linger in the air as he composed his thoughts. Madison tilted his head slightly to the left and squinted his eyes as if for clarity of thought. He thought this conversation was just two men talking about life and marriage.

  “Go on,” Madison said.

  “Why would a guy in your position sit in the parking lot of a single woman’s apartment complex, essentially stalking her several times per week? Show up at her place of work, and eventually hire her?”

  “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

  “I’m pretty sure you know what I’m talking about.”

  “Pastor Enright, you’ve been stalking this young woman. I’m not the only one who knows about it.”

  “What are you talking about?” Madison was exasperated but contained his emotions with superhuman ability. “You know,” Madison said with a forced smile, “I think you’ve got me mixed up with someone else, my friend.” He shook his head as if disappointed in Franz, “I thought more of you Mr. Franz, I think we’re done here.” He stood to go.

  “Pastor Enright?” Steve Franz said without looking up. Madison stopped and turned to face the reporter. “I know about the Marriott.”

  Madison sat back down. “What about the Marriot?”

  “Sunday night? The last weekend of your special series at the church? About 11:30 - 11:45 p.m.? The Marriott right around the corner from your church?

  The blank stare on Madison’s face told Steve all he needed to know, but the pastor couldn’t, or wouldn’t speak.

  “Pastor Enright, do you want to talk about it?”

  “You’re on a wild goose chase, Mr. Franz. You don’t know any idea what you’re talking about and you are messing around with the lives of good people. Shame on you.”

  This time it was Franz who stood, picking up the check, he said, “I’m afraid I know exactly what I’m talking about, sir. And you know too. I was hoping the puzzle pieces would sort themselves out a little differently this morning. I’ll see you back in California. But do us both a favor, don’t do anything stupid while you’re here, all right?”

  Steve covered the bill and exited while Madison sat, dumbfounded, at the booth. He wondered what Franz knew about the Marriott. He thought the whole thing through. He went alone in the middle of the night. He left alone. He was only there a few minutes, and he had discarded anything that might be considered evidence of the visit. It didn’t make any sense. He was certain Franz hadn’t talked to Judy. If he had, she would have told him. But how could he even know about Judy. He’d have to be careful, this guy was looking for fuel for a fire.

  Chapter 84

  Somehow, Madison managed to put the personal issues he didn’t realize he had aside, and delivered a stirring message to the convention during the Friday evening serv
ice. After the event wound down, Madison joined Drs. Cross and Culbert in the lobby cafe for a late snack.

  “How’s that wife of yours, my friend?” Dr. Ray said.

  “She’s doing good - looking forward to having me home.”

  “Well, I still think you should have stayed with her,” Dr. Cross admitted, “but you are doing a fine job. We’re very proud of you.”

  Madison’s cell phone rang and again, he didn’t recognize the number. But, since it was from his area code, he picked up after excusing himself from the table. “Madison Enright.”

  “Madison, thank God you picked up. It’s Dave. Jill’s at the hospital, I’ve got Billy, taking him to Shani’s mom’s house.”

  “Dave? Wait a minute. What’s going on? What happened?”

  “Dawn took her in, said she was having contractions. She’s dilated. Looks like she’s going into labor. The doctor said it was too early, but he’s keeping her there for observation. Just wanted to let you know for now, bud. Exciting times!”

  “Dave, is she okay? Should I get home, like, now?”

  “Your call, Mad. I would, but I know you’ve got some big stuff going on. I’ll get Jill to call you if she can.”

  “Listen, keep me in the loop, okay?”

  “You got it. Here, say hi to big brother.” Dave handed the phone to Billy Enright.

  “Hi, Dad. Uncle Dave’s car is fast. We’re going like 300 miles an hour.”

  “Hey, Leroy, I love you. You taking care of mommy?”

  “She’s crying and stuff. I think she’s going to have the baby. Can you come home, Dad?”

  “I’ll try, son. You be good for Mr. & Mrs. Andrews and for Uncle Dave till I get there, okay?”

  “Okay.” Billy handed the phone back to Dave who checked it. Madison had already hung up.

  “Wanna go faster?” Uncle Dave said to the thrill seeker seven-year old in the passenger seat.

  Chapter 85

  Madison wandered back a little dazed to the table where he’d left the two professors.

  “What is it Madison? Is everything all right?” Dr. Cross asked.

  “It’s Jill. They’ve taken her to the hospital. She might be in labor.”

  “Well you’ve got to get on the next plane, that’s all there is to it,” Dr. Ray said.

  “I don’t know... The doctor said it’s too early. It may be false labor. By the time I get there, she’ll either be back home, or we’ll have a baby. What can I really do at this point? I’ve got to talk to Jill. If you two gentlemen will excuse me, I’ve got to get up to the room and try and reach my wife.”

  “Go with God, Madison,” Dr. Cross said, “And if you must leave, don’t worry about it. We’ll cover the final session.”

  “I’ll try to call you, or, at least leave a voice message,” Madison said. He shook hands with the men and turned to leave. “I’ll talk to you soon.”

  Chapter 86

  Back up in his room, the red light was flashing. He called the front desk for messages, and there were two from room 613 with a request that he call ASAP. He ignored these for the moment and speed dialed #2 on his cell phone. “Hello, this is Dawn.”

  “Dawn, it’s Madison, is Jill there?”

  “Hello, uh, she’s in with the doctor right now.”

  “Can you walk the phone in? It’s urgent.”

  “Hold on.”

  Madison heard a muffled thumb cover the speaker on the phone and several voices in the background. Finally, Jill came on the line.

  “Hi, sweetie,” Jill said just above a whisper.

  “Hey, J, what’s going on? We having a baby?”

  “I don’t know. I just started having little contractions, and I felt really weak, so Dawn called the doctor, and he wanted me to come in. Dave’s got Billy.”

  “I know. I talked to Dave.”

  “Listen, I’m on the next flight, all right?”

  “Okay, honey. But really, you can wait till tomorrow, you know. It might be false labor. I’m still way early.”

  “Let me talk to the doctor.” Jill handed the phone to Dr. Penquay.

  “Hello.”

  “Dr. Penquay. Madison Enright. How is Jill, really.”

  “She is very weak, Mr. Enright. Low iron. The baby is healthy, strong heart, vitals good. I think we need to try and make it a few more days, but what do I know. Babies come when they are ready.”

  “Doctor, I’m in Dallas till tomorrow afternoon. Should I try to catch a flight out tonight?”

  “That is up to you, Mr. Enright. We will admit Mrs. Enright and start an IV to bring up her strength and iron level. If the contractions slow down, I think she’ll stabilize. If her condition worsens, we may need to take the baby caesarian to ensure the mother’s health. But the baby will do fine either way.”

  “And Jill?”

  “The weaker she gets, the more concerned I get. But she is in good hands here, sir, the best,” Dr. Penquay said, smiling at Jill. Dawn was holding Jill’s hand while the doctor spoke to Madison. Dr. Penquay handed the phone back to Mrs. Enright.

  “Honey?” she said.

  “I’m here.”

  “Don’t worry about me, okay? If things get rough, Dawn or Dave will call you okay?” They’re taking good care of me. I’ve got to hang up now. Dawn will have the phone if you call. I’m going to try and rest a while. Love you.” Jill clicked the phone shut and handed it to Dawn who smiled, thanked Dr. Penquay and returned to Shani in the waiting room.

  Madison used the hotel phone to connect to room 613. “Hello,” came the sultry voice on the other end of the line.

  “Hi, Judy. It’s Madison. Jill’s in the hospital, I’ve got to get out there. I think I’m going to leave tonight.”

  “Okay. Well. Uh, can I drive you to the airport or something?”

  “No, I’ve got a car. It’s just... The doctor said it’s probably just an iron deficiency and false labor. He’s pretty sure he can bring it under control with an IV.”

  “So... are you going, or not?”

  “I should. I think. Yes. I don’t know. I’ve only got one more session. It’s tomorrow morning at 10:00 am. If I left by noon I could be at the hospital by early afternoon, California time.”

  “That’s only fourteen hours from now.”

  “That’s what I mean. I just don’t know if I should skip the last session or... And, honestly, I really wanted to see you once more before I go.”

  “Why don’t you come up to my room. We can talk about it. I’ll check flights while you’re on your way up,” she said.

  “Be there in five.”

  Chapter 87

  “What did he say?” Shani said.

  “He’s going to try to get a flight out,” Dave said from his cell phone, he was on his way back over to the hospital after dropping Billy and Franny off at the Andrews.

  “I know he’s your best friend, and I know he’s my pastor. But he should be here. Doesn’t he realize that? Isn’t that what he’s been preaching about for the past year?” Shani said.

  “I know, hon, but give him a break. Nobody saw this coming.”

  “If we are ever in this situation, David Bean.”

  “I know, I’ll never leave your side. We’ll cuff our wrists together like the FBI guy and his briefcase.”

  “It’s not funny.”

  “Sorry, Shan, I’ll be there in a few minutes. Bring you anything?”

  “Dawn and I both want Starbucks, since you asked.” Dave pulled into a drive-through coffee house, figuring it was on the way and Starbucks was more of a general term for specialty coffee than a brand name. He was wrong, as his wife’s pretty friend informed him later, but the ladies seemed to enjoy the drinks anyway.

  Chapter 88

  Dave, Shani and Dawn along, with Pastor Dan and Julie and Paula Stone from the church, and Greg and Terry Page sat helplessly in the waiting room, while Jill slept. The doctor said it would take some time to help her regain some strength, and, if the baby wo
uld just be a little patient with her mommy, this would all balance itself out by morning. Terry translated what he said for the group as good news on the condition that baby Enright played ball. If not, things could get bad in a hurry. There was no word from Madison by midnight, so the group made the assumption that he was on his way. At 1:30 am, Jill took a turn for the worse. The contractions intensified before her body had regained any strength. The baby was coming - ready or not. The hospital staff shifted into high gear.

  Chapter 89

  Madison packed his bag, left it on his bed and went to room 613 in his travel clothes. He wanted to find out what flights Judy had located, then convert the time and see if it was a realistic idea to try and make it to the West Coast tonight, or just take his regularly-scheduled nonstop flight after the morning session. He wanted to be with his wife, even if she had the baby with no complications, and even if this proved to be a false labor. At the same time, he was right where he wanted to be. In the room the discreet and worldly, Judy Turnbull. And, preparing to take the stage for the climax of the convention.

  Steve Franz noticed from across the hall that Judy Turnbull wasn’t wearing her red gown this time she opened the door. This time it was spandex pants and a tight zip-up hoodie that left little to the imagination. Enright was dressed in a polo shirt and jeans with Nike running shoes. He entered quickly. Franz had time for only one fuzzy frame with the peephole Nikon. “Fields tweaks this design, and he’s a millionaire. This gadget is amazing,” he thought.

  “What did you find?” Madison said, not completely ignoring the outfit Judy was sporting on his behalf.

  “There’s a red-eye at 1:00 am, but you’ve got to stop in Phoenix. You’d arrive at about 5:00 a.m. West Coast time.”

  “That’s ridiculous. Isn’t there anything else?”

  “I checked with the concierge, and I called the airlines myself. I checked all the online sites, and that’s it. The only other thing is to take a direct flight at 7:00 am and land in Oakland at 8:00 a.m. That one’s pretty good,” she said. “How’s your wife?”

  “She sounded tired, but okay, I guess. The doctor said he couldn’t really make the call one way or the other till they got some fluids into her.”