Ethics of a Thief

by Hinrichsen, Mary Gale

  Once she reached the restaurant, she sat and waited for Carry. Suddenly she tapped her shoulder.

  “Oh, you startled me,” she said with a giggle.

  They followed their young hostess to a table on the patio.

  While searching her friend’s face, Carry said, “So, what’s up? It’s that guy again, right?”

  “You rat, you know me too well.”

  “What’s wrong?”

  “My head and heart are conflicting,” she said while looking away.

  “What does your head tell you?”

  “Never see him again.”

  “And your heart?”

  “To fall into his arms and never let go.”

  “Even if he is a thief, you still want him in your life?”

  “He won’t be one for long.” Abigail said leaning forward. “Today he’s going to talk to the FBI.”

  “What do you mean?” Carry put her drink down. “When did he decide to do that?”

  “Recently he said in order to have a new start he can’t be worrying about his past.”

  “It might be a ploy to get you. Or, did you even think of that?”

  “No, I haven’t.” Abigail dipped her chip into the hummus.

  “Why?”

  “Because he didn’t call me, I called him, and he had already made that decision. In addition, not once has he tried to convince me to see him.”

  “Not yet, you mean,” she said, with a scornful tone.

  “So, tell me, you’ve never fallen for the wrong guy?” Abigail asked, with a smug face. She sat back in her chair glaring at Carry.

  “You know the answer. That’s why I’m so cynical,” Carry said. “But, going back to you, what changed? You were so firm about your decision. So, why doubt your resolution? Do you want to date him?”

  “Believe me, I want more than to date him, my cynical friend, he’s great with children, and I enjoy being with him. And, most importantly, he turns me on. And, that’s difficult to pass up.”

  Carry laughed. “Spoken like a true woman.” Okay, now tell me what God’s saying to you?”

  “Not much. So I’m relying on His word, which said to only marry someone with the same beliefs.”

  “So, what are you going to do?”

  “Trust God and try really hard to stop obsessing about the man of my dreams, the man I may never have.”

  “Now, who’s the cynical one?” Carry grinned and patted Abigail’s hand. “I know this is difficult for you, but I don’t want to see you get hurt or have any regrets.”

  “I know.”

  When Abigail returned home, she was utterly exhausted. So she flopped on the couch, placing her feet on the table. She closed her eyes, just for a few minutes. A half-hour later, she woke up and saw the answering machine flashing. After listening to it, she quickly returned Matt’s call. Subsequently they conversed with some small talk for awhile. She then asked, “So how did things go at the FBI office?”

  “After doing everything I could, it’s still up to Special Agent Parker. However, he did show interest and said he’ll call me tomorrow.”

  “I’m happy for you. I hope you get what you want.”

  “Before you hang up,” he said, “I need to thank you.”

  “What for?”

  “Because of you and the children, I now want to settle down and have my own family. When you rejected me, it broke my heart and hurt me deeply. However, I still want to have what is good in life, and to become a better man.”

  “You’re a good person Matt. Don’t go selling yourself short.”

  “So are you, Abigail. It’s amazing that you have placed your faith above your heart.”

  “What do you mean?”

  “When we’re together I see that you want to be with me, and I feel your body respond to my touch. Yet, you stick to your convictions. That’s impressive.”

  I guess you don’t realize I want to yell, TAKE ME! But, she managed to hold her tongue and silently yearned to be with him.

  Matt sensed she was vulnerable, and wanted to protect her so he said, “Before I say goodbye, I want to thank you for making me want to become worthy of someone like you.”

  After their goodbye, she quickly phoned Carry for strength.

  “If they don’t offer him immunity, what do you think he’ll do?” He’s a schemer, that’s for sure.”

  “Is that your pessimistic nature, I hear?”

  Carry was silent for a minute, yet had to laugh, “You got me, but right now I find it hard to know how to be supportive of you.”

  “Everything within me wants to see him, but I can’t. Although, we’re such a good fit in so many ways, my foremost desire has always been to share my faith with my man.”

  “Do you think we’re being too picky?” Carry said.

  “What do you mean?” Abigail said as she settled into her chair.

  “Look at our ages, neither of us ever married.”

  “Yes, we’re picky,” Abigail said. “But look at our friends. Many have been married, had children and are now divorced, raising them alone. The others have remarried and are complaining about having trouble adjusting to a blended family.”

  “There’s a saying that many people get married while they’re waiting for the right person to come along. Perhaps, there is truth to that.”

  On her way to visit her parents and the children, she hoped that Matt was telling the truth and not what she wanted to hear. Like when he said, “It was my first glimpse of God’s grace.” Although she wanted to believe him, she knew it would take a miracle to turn an Atheistic Thief into a Reformed Christian overnight.

  When she pulled into her parents’ driveway, she saw her dad sitting on the porch with Danny. The boy ran to the car to greet her with his arms open, saying, “Aunt Abigail!” After hugging, she said, “I missed you so much.”

  Looking at her father, she waved and yelled, “Hi, Dad!” When she reached him, he stood to give her a bear hug. “Any news about Sis?”

  “No,” he said, with sadness in his eyes.

  “Where’s Lisa?”

  “She’s in the kitchen helping her nana.”

  “I bet she’s talking Mom’s ear off.”

  He grinned and nodded.

  While he stood holding the door open, Abigail thought he had aged. Although he was putting on a happy face, it was a feeble attempt. She entered the house and went directly into the kitchen.

  “Aunt Abigail. You’re here!” the child said while jumping into her arms. “I missed you.”

  “What are you two up to?” Abigail asked.

  “I’m helping make banana bread, Nana’s teaching me.”

  Elizabeth came over and embraced her daughter and kissed her cheek. Quickly, she returned to the sink while clearing her throat.

  Soon Abigail came up behind her mother and whispered, “Can I help with anything?”

  “Yes, you can reassure me that your sister will come out of her coma.”

  “With prayer, it is possible Mom.”

  “Okay. You can tell me about your friend Matt.” When Elizabeth turned, her eyes sparkled, and her dimples were showing.

  “What do you mean?”

  “Lisa talks about him.” She said while glancing at Lisa. “Don’t you, dear?”

  Lisa nodded.

  “And, we saw the telescope he bought Danny.”

  “Yes, he has been very kind to the children.”

  “Was he kind to you, too, dear?”

  “Yes. Very kind to me, as well, Mother!” she said with a bite.

  “So, have you been out with him alone?”

  “I can’t believe this. I’m thirty years old and being interrogated by my mother!” Her face was flush as she stated, “Yes, once for dinner.”

  “When will you be seeing him again?”

  “Never! Now please change the subject.” Abigail spun around and marched out of the kitchen. When she reached the living room, she took in a deep breath and let it out slowly. She felt a
ngry. Why do I let her get to me?

  “Are you okay?”

  “Yes, Dad.” she said while trying to inhale and exhale on a count of ten. Once she calmed herself, she said, “Have the doctors said anything at all about Alisa’s recovery?”

  “Same old thing, she can hear us, but can’t respond. And, it’s anyone’s guess if or when she’ll come out of her coma.”

  “Are you satisfied she’s getting the best care?”

  “Yes. We think so. If the hospital is good enough for John Wayne, it’s good enough her. Besides, Scripps Green Hospital is the best in our city.”

  “How do you know John Wayne was there?”

  “I saw him in their elevator wearing a hospital gown. He must have had some tests or X-rays. He was a friendly cuss.”

  “I liked John Wayne,” Danny said. “I have a picture of him.”

  After smiling, Abigail said, “I saw it, it’s a good likeness.” Soon she turned to her father, “Have you gone golfing lately?”

  “No. Not since your sister’s accident.”

  “That’s too bad. Want to go tomorrow? The children can ride with us. It’ll be fun.”

  Danny became animated and his voice rose, “Can we go? I’ll drive the golf cart.”

  “No.” John said.

  “But why not?”

  “I just don’t feel up to it Danny.”

  Abigail reached out to her father and held his hand. “It would be a good change of scenery. It would be good for you too. We can all go while Mother has her Bible study in the morning. I’ll call the hospital and ask them to call my cell number if there is a change.”

  “I don’t know.”

  “I’ll call and get a tee time, and if you decide not to go, I’ll take the children.”

  “But, you’ll need two carts with two children,” John said.

  “Yes, that’s why we need you.”

  He let out a loud breath, “Okay. You win.”

  After dinner, Abigail sat pretending to read a magazine but was thinking of how she might give grace to her mother for snooping. No matter where she went, Matt seemed to be the topic of conversation. She wondered if the woman was curious, worried, or knew she was in love.

  Chapter Thirty-Three

  While Abigail tried to sleep, she became restless. So, she got up to warm some milk. While sipping it she wondered how Matt was doing with his bargaining for immunity, yet had peace that everything was now in God’s hands.

  When she returned to bed, she quickly fell into a deep sleep. Matt and she had just married. While at the doorpost of their honeymoon suite, he scooped her up in his arms and carried her across the threshold. After setting her down, he placed his hands on her face while looking into her eyes, saying, “You’re such a beautiful bride.” As he kissed her, his lips were warm and tender.

  Without a warning, he walked away out of sight. When he returned he said, “I hope you like bubbles in your bathwater.” When she entered the prepared bathroom, she quickly undressed and slipped into the hot water while letting it cover her tall slender body. With her head resting and eyes closed, she moved to let the jets manipulate her feet and shoulders.

  After her bath, she grabbed a towel. While drying she noticed the glorious marble floor, pedestal sink, and ornate vanity. She could see Matt behind her in the mirror carrying a tray of strawberries dipped in chocolate. When he approached, she gladly accepted his pampering. Soon he vanished to turn back their wedding bed. So she quickly slipped into her transparent nightgown.

  Suddenly the stupid phone rang. She wanted to toss it into the trash. But instead, she got out of bed and answered.

  “Hello Dear, it’s Mother. I want to give you some good news.”

  “What?” Abigail said with a grumpy tone.

  “Your sister moved her fingers this morning. It’s the first sign she might recover.”

  “Well that’s amazing news, do the kids know?”

  “Not yet. They’re at home with Dad.”

  “Oh Mom, I’m so happy. Won’t the children be thrilled? I bet Lisa will happily dance around, Danny will have the biggest smile, while Dad will probably cry from happiness.”

  “I’m still at the hospital. I’ll wanted to call you first.”

  “Let’s go celebrate Mother. I’ll come take you to breakfast, would you like that?” Abigail said.

  “Yes that would be delightful. Do you have any idea, how relieved I feel?”

  “Sure do! So am I. It’s an answer to all of our prayers.”

  *

  While showering, Abigail was full of gratitude as she praised God for the news. Soon the warmth of the water brought back memories of her delightful dream. But the shower couldn’t compare to the amazing vision of a bath drawn by Matt.

  Once she dressed and locked up, she was on her way to the hospital. Within twenty minutes she entered Alisa’s room, but to her surprise, Elizabeth was gone. Yet Abigail was pleased to spend time alone with her sister.

  “I’m so proud of you Sis. You’re such a fighter. I knew you would make it. You had to. The children need you too much.”

  After her visit, Abigail headed for the cafeteria. When she saw Elizabeth, she quietly walked over and slipped into the bench seat, and kissed her cheek, “Hi Mom.”

  “Oh hi Honey. I knew the minute I left you’d come.” They chatted about what joy they felt over Alisa’s milestone.

  Later they returned to Alisa’s room hoping for more progress, but there was none.

  “Ready to eat? I know a nice place nearby.”

  Elizabeth nodded, and turned to kiss her daughter lying so still, “You’re a warrior. You’ll get better, I’m sure of it.”

  While driving slowly down the street to La Jolla cove, they looked for a parking space. Luckily they pulled into a spot without much trouble. Soon they were climbing up the steps to the same restaurant Matt and she visited that overlooked the cove.

  After they arrived, there was a slight morning breeze that kicked up. So when their host arrived, Abigail asked, “Is it okay to sit under a heat lamp? It’s a little chilly.”

  The young man smiled and graciously led them to a table. After handing them menus, he explained the daily specials. Soon they ordered Spinach Omelets.

  “This is lovely,” Elizabeth said while watching the kayakers. “Have you ever done that?”

  “Yes once with Carry. We were having a grand time until a sea lion came too close. It freaked her out. So we quickly rowed into the nearest cave.”

  “That sounds like fun.”

  “Yes. It was a memorable day. The cave we visited was small with sun shining down through a tiny opening at the top of the rocks. Don’t you remember me telling you? I showed you my lump on my head?”

  “How did that happen?”

  “Well, we decided to take a short cut back…so we thought. But it brought us too close to the current causing the kayak to turn over and hit my forehead. While still in the water, we laughed so much it made it harder to get back into the kayak.”

  “Yes, I do remember. You acted as if you two went on some fun adventure.”

  Abigail grinned, “Actually it was. But enough about me, how are the children doing?”

  “They’re still adjusting. I hear them talking about their past outings with their father. They do miss him.”

  “Frankly, I can’t imagine losing Dad at that age. It must be tough on them. But at least they have good memories.”

  “When they say their prayers, it is for their mother’s recovery. They will be so pleased to hear the good news about their mother,” said Elizabeth.

  The waiter interrupted their conversation as he bent forward to sit the plates before them. Little talk transferred as they ate. While relaxing with a cup of coffee after their meal, Abigail touched her mother’s arm, “I’m sorry about my reaction the other day, I don’t know what got into me.”

  “It’s my fault. I pried. If you want me to know something, you’ll tell me.”

  “Well,
I’m ready to talk now. The man you asked about, is Matt. We met at the yacht club and were on the yacht together. And yes. As you may have guessed, I’m in love with him. But I have certain reservations, so I told him to only call if he had information about the murder investigation.”

  “You said you love him, so why are you brushing him off like that?”

  “Mom, we don’t share the same faith or values. And I don’t want my kids to be dropped off at church by their dad.”

  Elizabeth nodded, “I understand. But why do you think he’s such a hopeless case? We always have hope when we include God. Look how your father changed once we found a new church?”

  Abigail was shocked that her mother approved of a man she never met.

  *

  When Abigail returned home she fixed iced tea and grabbed her book. As she sat reading, the phone rang. At first she was annoyed, but remembered the good news her mother brought.

  When she answered it, she heard Matt’s voice.

  “Oh, hi, Matt, did you hear from the FBI?”

  “Yes.”

  “So what’s the verdict?”

  “Remember the Iraqi they found?”

  “Yes.”

  “This morning an interpreter made a statement for him. Apparently the man admitted to the murders, but added, that they deserved to die, because they refused to return the smuggled item.”

  “Wow. That’s amazing.”

  “After our 911 tragedy, we went to war in Iraq. It was at that time that the historical Artifact was taken from their museum.”

  “Well, now we know who killed them and why.” Abigail said.

  “One of our American spokesman, also made a statement. He emphatically vowed to return the relic to Iraq the moment it is recovered.”

  “So have you returned it yet?”

  “Yes. I did this morning around the same time the story broke out.”

  “How did it go?”

  “The FBI worked out an agreement with the State Attorney’s Office. Once it was returned I would receive immunity for us. The deal is complete. As the song goes, it’s signed, sealed and delivered. It states, if any of us ever commits insurance fraud again, the agreement is null and void.”