A Deal With God: The Power of One

by Haden, Michael

  “We have to make sure everyone eats their entire brownie,” Tracy joked.

  The brownies came out of the oven as Leon and Kenny walked into the door. Tracy looked at Kenny. Kenny looked at Tracy and they gave each other big smiles.

  “Please tell me you are hungry,” Deana said. “The boys have been staring these things down all night. If we don’t eat them I’m afraid they will.”

  Tracy brought the brownies, plates and utensils to the burn pit. Deana brought the beverages. Leon struck a match and everything lit up. They turned on the radio, laughed and sang. They ate, drank and had a blast.

  One hour later, Deana took Leon by the hand and into the bedroom. “Let’s pretend it’s your birthday, too,” Deana teased.

  “What I am about to do for you would cost you one hundred and fifty dollars uptown. It is so good I’m not sober right now.”

  Deana got Leon a folding chair. She pulled out her hand made platform from under the bed and put it in front of the now seated Leon. She spun around quickly and changed her skirt. She loaded her disk into her computer and put it on the bed. The music started playing. Deana stepped on the platform and she danced. She danced as if everything that mattered was on the line.

  For thirty minutes she danced. She put her heart and soul into it. She used a dancers technique at the end that made men want to come back and pay another one hundred and fifty dollars the next night. It is amazing what you can learn to do on the internet. Leon was floored.

  Deana did not take her clothes off or do anything improper. She was, however, miles and miles out of her comfort zone. She was a very modest woman. Yet, she had a strong commitment to Leon. There was very little she would not do for him.

  Leon and Deana went to bed together. Although they didn’t make love in the biblical sense, Deana showed Leon more love and affection than he’d ever known.

  Later on, Leon went to check on Kenny and Tracy. They had a great time. As Kenny was leaving, he told Leon it was his best birthday ever. Kenny walked Tracy to her car and got her number.

  As February approached, Deana looked at the calendar and got upset. Valentine’s Day would be on a Thursday this year. I usually don’t even get to see Leon at all on Thursdays, Deana thought to herself sadly. She had no idea how this was going to play out. One of the few Valentine’s Days she actually had a boyfriend and they both had to work.

  “Do you think Leon will take me out Tuesday night instead?” Deana asked Delores as they prepared their stations. “Valentine’s Day is on a Thursday this year. We both work and Leon is short on money. I might be getting only a card.”

  “You never know with men,” Delores warned. “Sometimes they surprise you with something wonderful, sometimes they brutally disappoint you.”

  “You’ve known Leon a long time,” Deana stated. “I really want your opinion on this.”

  “Expect the unexpected,” Delores predicted. “I know it’s a clich�, and probably not what you want to hear, but it’s the best I can do.”

  It was Saturday afternoon, five days before Valentine’s Day. Deana and Leon were in the living room together watching television. Deana tried dropping hints.

  “It’s going to be an interesting week coming up, Leon,” Deana stated. “I think they have some day coming up where if you have someone real special in your life, you kind of celebrate it, I forget what they call it, but I think it’s Thursday this year.”

  “Aw man,” Leon said. “Thursday is the worst day of the week. We usually don’t even see each other. Maybe next year it will be a better day of the week and I’ll have a little more money.”

  Deana was crushed, but did not say a word. They went to church on Sunday; they spent most of Monday and Tuesday evenings together. There was no mention of Valentine’s Day.

  After work Wednesday night, Deana was home alone and feeling vulnerable. She had no real family. Her friends were distant. What if Leon was just using her as a cook, companion and babysitting service. Maybe his feelings for her were not that deep.

  Early the next afternoon Leon called Mr. Vito at the restaurant. “I know it will be busy at the restaurant tonight,” Leon told Mr. Vito. “But if there is any way you could let Deana off just half an hour early tonight, say maybe 9:30, I’d really appreciate it. I want to pick her up and do something special for her.”

  “I have to ask Peggy and Delores first,” Mr. Vito replied. “If they are all right with Deana leaving early, it’s all right with me. I’ll call you back at five.”

  Mr. Vito called Leon back later and okayed his request after talking to his other two waitresses.

  At 9:30pm, Leon walked in with a bouquet of red roses and a little heart shaped box of chocolates. Deana, who by this time had been feeling very melancholy, was ecstatic. She jumped into Leon’s arms and started to cry.

  Deana had her arms around the flowers and chocolate and Leon had his arms around her as they walked to his truck. They drove to the clearing by the lake she liked so much.

  The radio played their favorite songs. Deana’s shoulders were wrapped tightly in Leon’s blanket and Leon’s arms. At first they kissed with Deana sitting next to Leon. As things warmed up, Deana spun on top of Leon’s lap. They were waist to waist, chest to chest. It was their most intimate, longest kiss ever.

  Deana sucked on Leon’s ear lobe and then circled his outer ear with her tongue. “I am so ready to take this to the next level Leon,” Deana proclaimed. “Saturday afternoon, when I’m down off of this cloud, we need to talk.”

  She kissed Leon again. This time it was more than just passion. It was lust, desire, and two people falling in love.

  CHAPTER 10

  THE PROPOSAL

  It was Saturday, February 16th, 2013. Deana was over early so she could make the boys their favorite chocolate chip pancakes. Matthew, Mark and Luke liked whipped cream on theirs. Leon preferred syrup. Deana knew food was a great way to put Leon in a good mood. Today was the day Deana and Leon would have their most important talk ever.

  Deana cleaned up after breakfast and helped Matthew and Mark with their studies. When they were finished the boys played video games. Deana went into the living room to be with Leon. Leon was watching college basketball. When Deana walked into the living room he turned down the volume. He knew she had something to say, he just wasn’t completely sure what.

  “As we’ve discussed before,” Deana started, “one of the reasons I moved to Dothan is because it’s close to Atlanta and Dr. Rodriguez, a very respected internist practices there. One of my physicians in Tampa, Dr. James, set me up with Dr. Rodriguez. Two weeks from Monday, I go for my final check–up to make sure I’m completely recovered from my accident. I’ll be checked and tested head to toe.”

  “As you know,” Deana continued, “I suffered extensive internal injuries. Even some of my female parts were affected. The good news is I expect to get a clean bill of health. Physically, for the first time, I’d be able to be fully intimate with you.”

  “The bad news,” Deana explained, “which I hope isn’t too bad, is spiritually I’m not comfortable making love to a man that is not going to be my husband. If I was engaged and had a commitment, I’d feel so much more at ease.”

  “Leon, please understand, if you’re not ready to make this big of a commitment, I understand,” Deana concluded. “I’m perfectly happy the way things are. This is the most incredible relationship I’ve ever been in. I just wanted you to know I’m emotionally and soon physically ready to take our relationship to the next level.”

  “Are you saying you’ve never been with a man Deana,” Leon asked carefully.

  “This is something I never talk about,” Deana replied. “However, I think you deserve an answer. When I was very young and in foster care, my first foster father forced himself on me against my will. I have never voluntarily given myself to anyone. The first and only man I want to give myself to and make love to will be the man that will be my husband.”

  Leon looked stunned but remai
ned silent. Deana was mature beyond her years. The fact she’d dealt with so much in childhood shed quite a bit of light on Deana the adult.

  Meanwhile, a couple of blocks away at Dothan Christian Church, Pastor Beckmann and church Deacon Simms were having a conversation.

  “I’m concerned about our attendance,” Pastor Beckmann said. “Even with the high price of gas people are driving over towards Morrison to go to the new church. I’m told they’re doing some kind of guitar service. Is that what you’re hearing?”

  “Yes, Pastor,” Simms said. “These two brothers, Eli and Edwin Jacobson are terrific guitar players. These guitar services are popular all over the country.”

  “Do any of our members play guitar?”

  “The new girl, Deana, can play. Some days in the early afternoon I see her on her porch playing. She takes care of Leon Samuels’ little boy, Luke. I guess when Luke takes his nap the Murphy girl goes outside to practice so she doesn’t wake him.”

  “How good is she? Can she sing?”

  “I don’t know,” Simms answered. “She’s a waitress at Vito’s. Why don’t we have Italian for dinner and we can sit in her station and talk to her.”

  That night, they paid her a visit at work and requested her as their waitress.

  “Miss Murphy we need your help,” Pastor Beckmann began. “Attendance at our church is in decline. We think some of our former members are driving to a new church near Morrison because they like their style of praise and worship music.”

  “It’s funny you mention it, Pastor,” Deana said. “Leon and I have discussed this before. My former church in Tampa has amazing music during the service. Good music can really add so much to the worship experience. You should get a couple of good musicians to help Mrs. Jarvis.”

  “Actually Deana, we’re thinking of replacing Mrs. Jarvis,” Deacon Simms said. “She doesn’t seem to resonate with the younger members. We’re considering going in a different direction; getting someone younger. Also, everyone has grown tired of organ music.”

  “Sir,” Deana said respectfully. “That would break Mrs. Jarvis’ heart. Her music means so much to her. Wouldn’t it be better to help her than replace her?”

  Obviously, the two men were not interested in Deana’s opinion, just her talent.

  “Deana, what kind of singing voice do you have?” Pastor Beckmann asked.

  At that second, Peggy walked by. “Oh my, Pastor Beckmann,” Peggy said. “Are you saying you’ve never heard Deana sing? She has a voice people would drive to listen to. Her singing is amazing.”

  “Is this true, Miss Murphy?” Pastor Beckmann asked.

  “I’m a good singer, Pastor Beckmann,” Deana replied. “But I’m not that good a guitar player. I definitely can’t do it solo.”

  “You’re such a pretty girl, no one will notice,” Deacon Simms said. “We’ll tell Mrs. Jarvis tomorrow will be her last Sunday.”

  “I can’t do that, sir,” Deana said, trying to be as respectful as possible.

  Saying ‘no’ to the head of your church in rural Georgia could definitely cause problems for Deana. She had to think fast.

  “Gentlemen, I think I have a solution that will solve all of our problems. Please don’t talk to Mrs. Jarvis yet. I’m off from work on Monday. Please let me handle this.”

  “All right, Miss Murphy,” Pastor Beckmann said. “You have one week to take care of this.”

  After service the following day, Deana sat down with Mrs. Jarvis.

  “You know how to read music, don’t you, Mrs. Jarvis?”

  “Yes, of course,” Mrs. Jarvis answered. “Why do you ask?”

  “I play guitar and I’m having a hard time learning to play a couple of songs I like. Could you meet me back here at three tomorrow and maybe help me for a bit.”

  “Yes, of course dear. I’d be glad to help.”

  “Thank you so much.” Deana said gratefully.

  Deana went to find Pastor Beckmann.

  “I know I can make this work Pastor Beckmann,” Deana stated, “but I need your cooperation. Please be here at three o’clock tomorrow and don’t say anything to Mrs. Jarvis. I want you to listen to a song I’m working on. I think you’ll be happy with what you hear.”

  Early Monday morning, Deana and Luke went to a big music store in Athens. Deana found a beautiful, used electric piano. It was not too expensive, so Deana bought it. She put it in the back of the Stratus and drove Luke home so he could take his nap. While he slept, Deana went online and found the chords, lyrics, and bass and treble lines to her favorite new Christian song. She printed out the song and took it with her to church.

  She plugged in the electric piano, found a seat for Luke and set up the sheet music. She started to practice the song on her guitar. As she strummed a few chords Mrs. Jarvis walked in. Deana asked Mrs. Jarvis to join her.

  “You play the lead off the treble and bass line and I’ll play the rhythm on guitar. I’ll sing the first song.” Deana stated.

  Deana nodded to Mrs. Jarvis to begin. The acoustic guitar provided the rhythm and the electric piano provided the lead. It sounded beautiful. Then Deana started to sing; and she sang like a professional. The sound was outstanding and fresh. Pastor Beckmann loved it and asked Deana and Mrs. Jarvis to play new songs together every Sunday.

  Deana was pleased by Mrs. Jarvis’ enthusiasm. In fact, she confided to Deana that she’d been ready for a change in the music at the church for a while; she just wasn’t sure how to bring up the topic for discussion.

  Later that evening after dinner, the boys did their homework and played video games. At bedtime, as Deana was putting the boys to sleep, Leon was in the kitchen getting a drink of water. What he heard coming from the boys’ bedroom made him smile; the sound of laughter, singing and happy children.

  Six months earlier Leon had stood in this same spot as Rebeccah was putting the boys to sleep. He heard bickering, fighting and feelings getting hurt. What an amazing difference one person can make.

  He heard the boys and Deana tell each other “I love you.” There was a pause and Leon knew Deana was kissing the boys good night. Deana was the warmest, most affectionate woman he’d ever known.

  The next day at work Leon was asked a question by a younger driver. He wasn’t sure how to respond.

  “Aren’t you the dude that dates Deana, the real pretty waitress?” the young man asked.

  Leon nodded yes.

  “I don’t know how you bagged her, but that is one rocking girl. I really admire you, you must have some game.”

  The truth was, Deana was a source of pride for Leon. He loved having her on his arm when he walked into the nice restaurant in Athens, when they went to the movies and even church.

  Leon had a huge decision to make. He loved Deana, but he hated being married.

  It was Tuesday and Deana had extra time to cook today. She prepared the butter basted fried chicken that Leon and the boys liked so much. It was becoming her favorite also. It was that good.

  When Leon got home he was starving. Deana was just taking the food out of the oven as he walked in. She also had a pitcher of sweet tea ready for him. It was the perfect meal.

  When dinner was over, Leon went into the living room to watch television. Matthew and Mark did their homework. Luke stayed in the kitchen to be with Deana. He had a little toy truck he played with while he waited for Deana to finish. Later, Deana would read to him.

  Leon heard Deana turn on the radio in the kitchen. She often listened to the radio as she cleaned. He overheard Luke laughing and knew Deana must be dancing for him. Deana would dance if she was in a good mood. Leon couldn’t help but peek into the kitchen to see. Sure enough, a fast song Deana liked was playing. She would shake her butt to the beat and Luke would laugh hysterically.

  Leon was torn. Deana was the most amazing woman he’d ever met. He knew he could date a different woman every day for the rest of his life and still never find one like Deana. She was the woman he wanted to spend the rest of hi
s life with. Still, the thought of being married again petrified him.

  The last four months with Deana had been the best four months of his life. Deana had brought him so much happiness. She lifted his spirit; took care of his home and his family. She’d given him everything except for one thing and she wanted to give him that. But Leon would have to be ready to take the next step. Again, it was marriage.

  Deana came into the living room just after nine o’clock. They watched television together until almost eleven. They started to kiss. Leon loved the way she kissed him and gave him her affection. Half an hour later she got up to leave. He walked her to her car and hugged and kissed her. He did not want her to leave. They would not be seeing each other until Friday night this week. Leon hated the time apart. And yes, he knew the solution to his problem.

  Leon decided it was time to invest in a diamond ring.

  All day Saturday, Deana was nervous about performing at church the next morning. She had been practicing the song alone all week. She left Leon’s a little earlier than usual to get in an extra twenty minutes of practice time.

  Sunday morning, Matthew, Mark, Luke, Leon and Deana walked into church together. Instead of sitting with the boys as usual, Deana with guitar case in hand, walked to the front to sit with Mrs. Jarvis. They were going to play one song. It was the most popular song on that week’s Christian music countdown. It was the song they had played Monday.

  When the time came for Deana and Mrs. Jarvis to perform, Deana had butterflies. Her voice shook and her hands trembled as she played the chords. The first two minutes were rough. Deana struggled. Fortunately, they had decided in advance to play the long version of the song. She had five minutes to redeem herself. Soon, she caught her groove and let loose. They found their sound.

  When the song finished, they got a standing ovation. Deana and Mrs. Jarvis’ performances would become even better in time as they spent more time working together. It didn’t happen overnight, but gradually more people started coming to the church. What Deana and Mrs. Jarvis accomplished was very impressive.