No Longer Alone 5m2b1x

NO LONGER

ALONE

NORMAN O’BANYON

NO LONGER ALONE

Copyright © 2017 Norman O’Banyon.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Permanent Text Edition® (2016). Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright © 1946, 1952, and 1971 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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ISBN: 978-1-5320-2350-7 (sc) ISBN: 978-1-5320-2351-4 (e)

iUniverse rev. date: 05/10/2017

Contents

No Longer Alone

Max

Dottie’s Foundation

Christmas Eve plans with friends

George Fox College

Christmas Eve Dinner

New Rings

Greenbrier Terrace

The Old House

Sean

George Fox Revisited.

Tri-X

Hospital Visit

Reno Deal

Second Hospital Visit

Home and Garden

Max offers to Quit

Clarifying worship

Jeff

An expanded job title

Dr. Rita Rogers

Advertising Campaign

A Matter of trust

An unmistakable lesson

Best Man

Eddie and Hank

Stephaney Powers

Mountaintop worship

Bret and Liz Brunch

Sale!

Construction Begins

Move in

Counselor Grace

Spencer Yost

Open House

Suspended!

Rehearsal Dinner

The Wedding

New Beginning

About the Author

No Longer Alone

S arah climbed the stairs of the Aloha Congregational Church. The office of Pastor Eric French was her destination, but she recalled how heavy the big door was to open. She had associated that door with the many other significant doors of her past. She clearly ed the door to Miss Linn’s shelter home, and Miss Grace’s condo that had been a refuge for her as well. She had a painful memory of the elegant front door of the Bowen’s, which she had last seen in broken fragments. She could happily recall the back door of the orchard house, and dad Dalton’s warm welcome. She could the condo door where Max lived and worked, and her office door that was a large satisfaction. She was confident that this big door would become a happy memory as well. She tugged it open and entered for her appointment. After a very brief wait, Pastor Eric opened his door to invite her into his office. “That will probably become another good memory door,” she thought. After a greeting hug and a bit of catch-up small talk, Sarah filled in her friend with the details of her second meeting with Max’s parents. This time they had all met at the Chart House, one of her favorite restaurants. Mrs. Wall, Sue, had been very gracious, with overflowing compliments for her accomplishments. Mr. Wall, Stan, had given her praise for finishing her MBA before most people her age were just getting started. Sarah said it was difficult to get to know the family when they kept asking her questions about her business or the orchard. “But it is curious to understand that I am finally going to be part of a large normal family,” she said with a grin. “It’s going to be more than just Trixy and me now.” There was a bit more to hear about Max’s family, but finally Pastor Eric brought her to the subject of their meeting. He asked, “Well how did you guys like the ‘Love and Respect’ book? This is our solo appointment, so if there are any issues you would like us to explore apart from Max, now is the time to do that.” With a cordial smile she replied, “I know you well enough to be honest. There are no issues with Mr. Max, or his family.” Her smile was radiant. “The book was interesting, but we enjoyed the communication test a whole bunch more. That had some surprises. Max found out that under normal conditions he is a

director that changes into a harmonizer under stress. I wasn’t surprised to be an analyzer under ordinary conditions, but the change into a director under stress was a fresh thought for me too.” She chuckled softly. “I’m not big enough to be a director.” “Yeah, I you made a trip to Costa Rica to rescue your foster sister. That sounds like someone who is big enough to me. But tell me what was just interesting about the book?” “The first book you recommended for us to read, Gottman’s “Why Marriages Succeed or Fail,” seemed to have solid research behind it, as did the communication test from OSU. But we found too much generalization in this last one. Frankly Max is more rewarded by affection than recognition or respect, and my needs seem to be strongly oriented toward respect and accomplishment. To be sure we both need affection, but there was too much over-simplification for us.” Before he could respond, she continued, “I that during our first conference with you, we were told that a lasting marriage has four basic s: trust, respect, loyalty and openness. Together those make the experience we call love. As I recall, you used the illustration of a chair with four solid legs, saying that those are common to everyone.” They shared a satisfied smile. “Are you suggesting that all folks communicate alike, or would you agree that men and women have different styles?” Eric asked. “Of course I agree that they are different” Sarah answered with a grin. “My only suspicion is that not only men and women, but every individual has a unique style. Some girls are ive and others are assertive, while some guys may be bold and others reserved as can be.” She wanted to make sure she herself was not being assertive. “I just think to be a good communicator, a person must be sensitive to the style most receptive by the listener. I think it is sort of like we all speak the same language, but we have differing dialects of it.” “I like that thought a lot,” Pastor Eric said after a moment. “I am reminded that to speak to the congregation effectively, I must not use the seminary dialect that only proves that I went to school.” Then staying in that quiet tone, he asked, “What dialect have you found that works best with Max?”

“He has taught me so much,” she said brightly. “You know how helpful he was in helping me work through the assault.” Eric nodded gently. “He also helped me frame my understanding of the faith. He was so patient.” She was quiet for a thoughtful moment. “I suppose he has taught me that I must not wait for him to talk about matters of the heart. I think I was sort of old fashioned, thinking that he would do all the romance work. Now I see that the dialect of affection must be shared by both of us. I almost lost him, or at least I dreaded that that had happened, when he went back to Virginia. He wants me to be as motivated as he is in our romance, and as involved.” Pastor Eric asked the standard counselor response, “And how do you feel about that?” She sort of giggled, “Really great! He has encouraged me to have a voice in our future. He welcomes the kisses or hugs that I initiate. While I haven’t tried it, I think he will also welcome any of my questions or fears about intimacy. I think there might be some old ghosts hanging around that subject, but I know he will help me through it.” Her smile was endearing as ever to Pastor Eric. “You challenged us to write our own wedding vows,” she continued. “In doing that, we have decided to use the words ‘partner, lover, friend’ instead of ‘spouse,’ except where the state says we must use ‘husband and wife.’ Sometime the business-like dialect of a partner exchanges information most clearly. Sometime the playfulness or tenderness of a lover can communicate as nothing else can. Above all, we have agreed to always that we are talking with our best friend. That makes such a wonderful difference.” “Sarah that is such a positive orientation! As long as you continue with that understanding you will be near the deep sense of the meaning of marriage. You two are not just getting along; you are ing each other’s hopes and aspirations. I guess that’s what I mean when I say your purpose is to honor and respect each other.” He continued, “Very often marriages forget to keep that positive orientation. Because of complacency or neglect, or just plain laziness, their emotional com takes on a negative orientation. I a day that dad took me salmon fishing at Newport. We were trolling east in Yaquina Bay for two or three miles when I asked him if I could play some tunes. It was getting a bit foggy and I was a bored teenager. He agreed and I set my disc player on the

dashboard, neither of us thought about the magnetic impact the speakers were having on the com. Finally when the fog got pretty thick, dad suggested that we turn around and make our way home. Suddenly the depth sounder warned him that we were in shallow water. Instead of heading back to town, I had unintentionally directed us into danger. It only took him a second to realize the mistake and we removed the player. It took some navigation skills on his part to get us back safely and, of course, I apologized all the way back to Portland. But it was a great teaching moment. If you are going somewhere, regardless of the speed of your progress, you must continually make sure it is in the correct direction.” He made his point. “People are dynamic, never static in one place. If that negative orientation is allowed to run the marriage into danger, there is a predictable degeneration of the relationship. It is never about whether the toilet lid is up or down, or whose turn it is to do the dishes. There are deeper, hidden issues that fuel these superficial conflicts and make them far more urgent, like our confused com was as it guided us into disaster. If a conversation begins with criticism or sarcasm, which is a form of contempt, there is the first sign of a confused or negative com. Because we are dynamic people, that hurtful beginning almost always leads to defensiveness, which is the prelude to isolation. Someone separates themselves from the discussion. By the way, studies show that men are the evaders 85% of the time. They are the one to disengage from the conversation. Overwhelmed by the negativity of the other, a fracture occurs in the relationship that if not repaired, will only grow worse in time until there is no longer a viable relationship.” “Wait!” Sarah broke in, “Are you saying that a criticism over the toilet lid can break up a marriage?” “Most marital squabbles begin with just such silly insignificant issues and could be solved by a simple word of grace,” Eric said softly. “I recall hearing that the average house fire could be extinguished with a cup of water, if discovered in the first minute of combustion. Sadly all too many marital houses burn down for lack of that one cup of grace. Once they begin to follow the negative orientation the distance between them only grows wider, larger, less repairable. It may take months or years, but a sad conclusion is nearly always inevitable if in the beginning their com is pointing in the negative direction.” “Then that cup of grace,” Sarah said softly, “is pretty darned important. Now I

wish Max was here to share this conversation.” “He will be covering the same stuff in his session on Thursday. But you are making my objective really easy. It may seem obvious to you, even to the point of being ridiculous: people, who are happily married, like each other. They are best friends and want to even improve on that. But fondness and iration can be fragile unless you remain aware of how crucial they are to the friendship that is at the core of any great marriage. By simply reminding yourself of your mate’s positive qualities – even as you grapple with each other’s flaws – you can prevent the deterioration of your happy marriage. The simple truth is that fondness and iration are antidotes for contempt. If you maintain a sense of respect for your mate, you are less likely to act disgusted when you disagree with him, which avoids the fracture in your relationship.” “So you are telling me that a great marriage still has room for a squabble, even a slightly noisy one?” Sarah’s smile was playful. “Well of course,” Eric answered with equal brightness. “But when you recall that the person with whom you are at odds, is also the one who shares your secrets, your mind, body, and soul, those little speed-bump problems are easily worked out. That being said, it is only logical that anything that improves your friendship or relationship, improves your ability to understand his dialect, and he yours. Have we said enough about that?” When Sarah nodded her head, Eric concluded, “You must know how delighted Grace and I are with your phenomenal growth. We feel like you are part of the family.” They chatted about her business and plans for the cherry season. He told her a bit more about his new pastoral opportunity, then conveyed a greeting from Grace, her former counselor. They finished the session chatting about the details already decided about their wedding in the barn. After a prayer, it was time to schedule their next appointment and get back to the office while there was still a bit of the afternoon to finish a project. When she finally turned out the lights, snug in her bed, she was still pondering some of the questions raised by her reading assignment. She understood that kissing Max so boldly had lit a warmth within her, but was that what the author meant by arousal? She could imagine that having her back or feet rubbed would be soothing, but she had never experienced that and wondered if it would be part of it too. The notion of having a favorite time of day for lovemaking made her

smile. She had to it that this was foreign territory for her, but fascinating. It was a warm fuzzy way to go to sleep.

Max

S ince the first of November, when Max had finally been shown the depth of deception crafted by Crenshaw, life had taken on a demanding pace. Through Liz Watts, his FBI , he was given s of interest to the agency. Many of them were fraud or identity thefts situations; some were suspected criminal activities of drugs, or either prostitution or pornography, and some were matters of national security. Max never lost sight that he was only a contract , and there was an army of agents with responsibility to care for the real issues, but he was becoming an awesome hacker. Now equipped with a brand new powerful computer, which he still called “Michael,” he felt that he was serving a righteous purpose. The new hardware was amazing. The military grade programs allowed him access into back doors of security s and codes. For his safety, Michael was routed through the Department of Justice server, which left a clear and complete trail of his activities for ability, but also made him invisible behind all their firewalls to anyone who might try to trace his activity. Also for his safety, his capture payments from the FBI were direct deposited into Cyber Solution’s , not as income but as service rewards. Sarah had impressed upon him the difference between federal rewards, and personal income, for which he paid the necessary taxes. His Vampire program was still his number one tool because it could go into another computer, make modifications and erase all trace of the activity, even the hard drive history. For the fraud cases, however, he had developed a second override macro that not only deleted the information on the computer, it devoured all operational systems code, making the equipment completely useless. He called it “Cannibal” because it was so lethal. He had traced several fraud complaints to three coffee shops in Liberia. With only a keystroke, their servers were disabled. They were out of the scam business until they replaced the expensive equipment. Then he would just do it again, something like pulling weeds. He had spent the entire morning comparing the VIN numbers from cars destroyed in the area wrecking yards with those reported stolen, and those numbers recorded by the port authorities on the cars being exported for foreign

sales. Liz was right; there were pages of matches. They were stolen cars, wearing the VIN number of metal scrap, and they were on their way to Asian and European sales far from detection. Finally he cleared out the bank s of eleven car exporters who were involved, leaving the tag, “FBI seized evidence pending trial.” If Liz was right about this too, there would never be legal representation to answer the subpoenas to reclaim the funds, and the Justice Department would process the evidence as abandoned. His compensation would be a small percentage of that, which still meant another very fat pay day. That’s how it had worked for the condo and the old house downtown. Just as Liz predicted, they had been seized as evidence, and then released to him by General Services as abandoned. Since he possessed the deeds, he was able to pay the back taxes, and then take care of transferring title to his name. Even the title of the BMW had been transferred. Not a day went by, not even an hour, without Max giving God thanks for the wondrous way that had all turned out, when it could have been so terrible. Most of all he gave thanks for Sarah’s affection, and her determination to share her future with him. He looked at his watch knowing that he still had a couple hours to work on Cyber Solutions, whose only current project was the perfection of Tri X. He would then drive out to Aloha to have his session with Eric.

The pizza was gone and the ice tea was on its last round. Max and Sarah were reviewing this last session with Eric. Sarah said, “I think it’s amazing that we each answered twelve of the other’s list properly. Doesn’t that mean by Eric’s scale that we have a thriving friendship?” “What’s even greater than that is the fact that we both wanted to answer all of the questions, and agreed on over half of the whole batch,” Max said shaking his head in wonder. “Let me see how you answered 57,” she asked. “What personal improvements would you like to make? You look pretty perfect to me right now.” Once again she giggled. “I think it would be really fun if we could take a cooking class together,” Max replied. “I’m nothing in the kitchen and I think it would be a blast to have some special skills there.”

Sarah clapped her hands, “Me too! I mean I’d like to have improved kitchen ability beyond a Farm breakfast or Mac and Cheese.” She continued to chuckle, “But it would be good if you could have a specialty. And my accomplishment for the year is to change my marital status. What did you say on 60?” “That was another agreement for us. But I was thinking about a very romantic honeymoon along with it.” “I was cruising through the list,” Sarah chuckled, “until 42. The one about sexual arousal. Then it seemed to me that more and more of the questions had to do with intimacy.” Her smile was tinted with a bit of a blush. “And the one following is, ‘what is the source of my anxiety?’” They both shared a nervous laugh. “I know,” Max ed in the levity. “Look at 47, 48, and 50. ‘What do I do with leisure time?’ ‘What is a way I can be soothed?’ And ‘what is my fondest wish or hope?’” His laughter was becoming contagious. “Once you begin to think about romantic double meaning that’s all you can see.” “I wonder where Pastor Eric got this naughty quiz,” Sarah said ing in his laughter. She leaned over the table to give Max a tender kiss. “He was right about the importance of our friendship, however,” she said softly. Looking directly into his eyes she added, “I promise to be your very best friend forever.” She kissed him again. “Even when the more dramatic promises of partner and lover come along?” Max whispered softly very close to her lips. Sarah answered in the same manner, “Especially then.” Max backed up a bit so he could look at all of Sarah’s face. He said, “Pastor Eric suggested that we find some sort of sign or signal to remind us of our deep friendship. When my sister used to want me to make a promise with her she would call it a ‘pinky promise’.” He held up his hand extending his little finger. Sarah immediately understood the sign and hooked her little finger into his. Max said, “As long as I have breath, I promise to be your truest and best friend.” Sarah answered, “As long as I have breath, I promise to be your truest and very

best friend.” They were both aware of a significant and profound change. They held their pinkies until another kiss indicated they could let go. “And if I ever need to be reminded of the importance of this moment, I hope you will simply raise your finger, your little finger, to rouse my memory.” Again they shared a gentle kiss and a warm smile. Sarah was quiet for a moment, wondering how Max would answer her next question. “Max, I’ve been revisiting our decision to have an August wedding, after the cherry season.” She looked closely for any tell-tale expression. “I thought you said that would be the best time, when all the work would be finished. But of course, I’m happy to talk about it.” He gave her a reassuring nudge. “I’ve been thinking a lot about it. Our wedding is the most important event since dad Dalton adopted me. It is way too important to just fit into a convenient season. I’ve been thinking how beautiful it would be if we could invite our friends to be there when the trees are in blossom.” Her grin was playful. “Just think of a hundred acre bouquet.” She was still for a moment before confessing, “Besides, I don’t want to wait any longer than necessary to be your wife.” Sharing her happy smile, Max said, “We’ll need to get some invitations out soon then.” It was his way of agreeing with her. “And what do you think about asking that gifts to be donations to Dottie’s Foundation?” She moved over to kiss him, and give him a big squeeze. Max returned to his previous thought, “We only have three more sessions with Pastor Eric. Which reminds me, Pastor Scott at Mountaintop invited us to a dinner at the church for couples planning a spring wedding. I think he has missed my attendance. It might be a fun way to meet some new friends who share a great common interest.” He decided to leave any more conversation about that for later. “Say, Kiddo,” Max felt a need to change the subject, “I’ve been thinking about Dottie’s Foundation. Do you want to talk about it?” He moved back into his chair. “That’s funny you should ask.” Sarah said lightly. “I just created a file to begin gathering some information. I haven’t got much in the file. What has been on your mind?”

Max snorted, “That’s scary how much of the time our thoughts are linked, or maybe it’s just that we have had the idea for a couple months without doing anything about it.” He put his elbows on the table and said, “It seems to me that there are several steps we could take right now. We could choose a school that we agree would accept students who may not be high on their SAT scores. We could establish a non-profit foundation with the state, and first of all, we could, perhaps should, get some idea of how much money we have in the seizure stuff from Crenshaw.” Her forehead wrinkled into a question. “Do you think we should just focus on one school. There are so many really good schools we might use.” “I know,” he replied. “But we could get lost in a place like the University, or Oregon State. What I imagine is a smaller school that we could relate to exclusively. Our fund-raising could use their identity as something familiar and approachable. Maybe some of their alumni would even help the foundation.” With a raised eyebrow in suspicion, Sarah replied, “It sounds like you have already chosen a candidate, like maybe Reed, your alma mater.” Max made his familiar “Yikes” face. “No way! That school is too geeky, too exclusive, too expensive, and not very approachable to the faith. Didn’t you once tell me that Miss Linn and her husband graduated from George Fox College? I checked them out. They are related to the Friends Church, Quakers. They have a terrific agricultural program, a top rated school of nursing, and the education classes are ideal for someone who needs a gentle start, and they are more affordable.” “That sounds like you’ve already come to a decision,” Sarah agreed quietly. “I guess that’s one chore off the checklist that I don’t need to worry about.” She looked at the paper in her hands. Max shrugged, “Well, I only made a suggestion” he said apologetically. “I haven’t made any decision or talked to anyone over there. I may be way out of line. But I will go talk to them, if you think it’s a good idea.” Sarah looked up with surprise. “Oh, I didn’t mean to sound cross. I was thinking that this is something I would really like to see accomplished this year, and how many students will be blessed by it. I’m sorry if I sounded critical.” She held up

her pinky finger. “I think it’s a fabulous idea, and I’m in complete . I wonder if there is anything I can do that’s as helpful to get this going.” Max hooked his pinky with hers. “This is going to be such a blessing.” He nodded at their fingers. “There have been times I would have misread you, and heard that as criticism. You are right, I would have pulled back. You’ve just demonstrated the grace side for me.” He unhooked to give her a kiss. When he returned to his chair he added, “How about getting us established as a non-profit foundation with a state tax I.D.? If you will do that, I’ll cover any expenses.” “That reminds me,” Sarah offered, “Pastor Eric told me that we will be talking about finances next Tuesday at our session with him. How specific do you suppose he will want to be?” “Not specific at all, I believe,” Max answered casually. “I’ll bet we can simply say that we have a well planned budget, after all that is your long suit, and the orchard, and our businesses are separate and doing O.K.” “Really?” she asked. “I thought he was going to get personal about it. Money is pretty important.” “It is,” he answered. “Do you recall that he said that the motive for most fights is about money, but the deeper motivation is almost always about sexual confusion and frustration?” “Oh come on!” Sarah burst. “He didn’t say anything like that at all in my session. He said it was about the toilet lid.” Max didn’t reply. He only held up his pinky. “Max, I’m on to you,” Sarah said playfully. “You just want another kiss.” She gracefully moved around the table so she could lean into him and offered a wonderful kiss. “I have always wanted a spring wedding,” Max said softly. “It is a season of promise.”

Dottie’s Foundation

M ax knew that the Treasury Bonds rescued from Crenshaw’s stash would be the easiest to establish Dottie’s Foundation. As he made his way through a crowd of noisy folks standing near the front of the Columbia National Bank, he felt very vulnerable, carrying the briefcase filled with negotiable bonds. He breathed a sigh of relief when he told the service rep that he wanted to create a savings for the foundation, and a business for Cyber Solutions. The latter was easy with a modest deposit and the assurance that Sarah would come in to sign her signature card. Her name was also on Dottie’s , but there was discussion of how much of a deposit he should make to establish it. The rep pointed out that as U.S. Treasury Bonds, they were already drawing more interest than the bank could offer. “How about cashing one bond to establish the , and place the other 127 in a safety deposit box?” he asked. Max thought about the new security of a box, and agreed to the good idea. The diamonds seized from Crenshaw were much more complicated. First Max took the nearly eight hundred stones to two Gem appraisers in Portland. After establishing their purity with laser inscribed identifications and an idea of their value, they both referred him to another appraiser in San Francisco, who would be accompanied by two wholesale gem buyers. It took him four very anxious days in all, but in the end, with some energetic bidding by the buyers, the stones were turned into bearer bonds as well. Another two million dollars were snugly secured in the safety deposit box. Dottie’s Foundation was extremely well funded. He had to work through the weekend to catch up on Liz’s leads. Cannibal weighed in on behalf of a college freshman who was being cruelly bullied by a group of sophomores. Max read the complaint and accompanying inflammatory emails. All through the fall, accusations and threats had made the young woman’s life miserable, and adversely affected her schoolwork. She had denied them over and over, and pleaded for them to stop. That only seemed to intensify the tormentors. Finally with a keystroke Max replied to all of the bullies, using his friend the Cannibal. The five computers experienced a simultaneous meltdown, full

systems failure. While they could not explain the disaster, they were convinced it had something to do with retribution. They lost an entire semester’s work as well as their expensive computers. It was a harsh lesson in justice. There was no reward in it for Max, but a great deal of satisfaction. He wished he could tell the young victim that it wouldn’t happen again, but of course, he didn’t know if that might be the case. Liz must have sent him her entire file on child porn suspects. She asked Max to that there was blatant material on the computers of a sizable list, and also establish that they were buying or selling it across state lines. With that verification, a coordinated raid could round them up before the evidence might be destroyed. What a disgusting task! Max was appalled and felt soiled just from the tiny bit he had to see. Then he came on a huge file identified only as “Kids”. He scrolled through page after page of horrible scenes of child abuse It was making him feel ill. Max was ready to stop the search when he realized that the same adult man and woman were seen again and again with different children. At first he simply wanted to send Cannibal to destroy it all. There was a possibility, however, that he was looking at the people who were creating this filth. Vampire removed any evidence of his presence; then he ed Liz with reasonable cause for a search warrant. By the evening of the next day four people were in custody and a list of international pornography clientele suspects was in the hands of authorities. Michael was indeed fighting the dragon!

Christmas Eve plans with friends

B y the middle of December they had completed their marriage preparation sessions with Pastor Eric, and set April 16 th as their wedding day. They had sent out their invitations, complete with driving directions to the orchard in the Eola Hills. Sarah was thrilled with the choice of the date. She knew she needed an appointment to visit her doctor for a consultation and a prescription for birth control pills. That may not be considered thrilling, but it made her very happy, none the less. To top it all off, Sarah and Max had enjoyed three lessons on grilling at La Connoisseur cooking school. A week before Christmas, Max’s cell phone rang; it was Liz Watts. “Hey Max”, she began right off. “Bret tells me you gave us an invite for dinner next Thursday. Is that right?” Her question was pitched somewhere between doubt and surprise. “That’s right, Liz,” he answered happily. “All the legal stuff is out of the way so the condo is completely mine. Sarah and I took some cooking lessons. You are the first folks we want to try it out on.” He snorted, “I don’t dare poison my family first.” When she didn’t respond, he said more seriously, “I want to express my thanks for all you two did to save my bacon and set me up in this amazing place.” With an incredulous voice, Liz asked, “Did he mean it when he said you’d like us there on Christmas Eve?” She waited for an answer. “Yes, if you are not tied up with other family stuff, we would love to have you here. I’ve even put up a handsome tree.” “But Max, aren’t you going to be doing something at your church?” It might have been the most thoughtful question Max had ever heard her ask. “Thanks for thinking about that,” Max replied tenderly. “We might watch the midnight candle lighting service on line. But sharing a meal in our home with you two is our top priority.”

“Tell me the truth,” now her voice took on its brusque edge, “Is it because you feel sorry for two agents who are without a family to share the holiday?” “Liz,” Max said in his toughest voice, “you should know that someone who goes into battle with the dragon doesn’t have a sorry spot in his heart.” His smile was almost visible on her phone. “Can we look for you about 6:30? I’ll get a couple bottles of Merlot, but Sarah and I prefer Ginger Ale.” “That is a very sweet invitation. Bret and I will be glad to share part of the evening with you. But you , we are always on call.”

George Fox College

S teve Sommers the Newburg college registrar welcomed Max into his office. He was gray haired and frumpy, evidence of too many years in istration. When they were seated, he asked, “Do I understand that you represent a nonprofit foundation?” Max nodded. “We are a faith-based group, but not related to any denomination.” Mr. Sommers leaned back in his chair, suggesting he was less interested. “What can I do for you today, Mr. Wall.” His question wasn’t rude, but it wasn’t very interested either. “Dottie’s Foundation is looking for a relationship with George Fox that will permit four students a year to be enrolled here, students who might not have great SAT scores, who have faced considerable challenge and who bring a huge desire to improve their life. We will choose them from the migrant families who have worked our crops, or from the state foster home program. Our agreement with them is that we will cover their tuition and expenses for one year. If they achieve ing grades, we will continue them for another. Ideally within four years we will have sixteen students at George Fox, and an avenue for benevolences to become involved in a fresh way.” “And who is it, do you expect, that will be benevolent? Is this an attempt to get the needy under the graces of George Fox? Many have tried that in one form or another.” His tone was condescending. “I don’t anything in my proposal suggesting that George Fox would contribute anything other than an open door and a bit of understanding.” Max was surprised at the lack of vision or comprehension in this . Max might have been aware that this proposal had been in his mind for quite a while, and Mr. Sommers was hearing it for the first time. “Dottie’s Foundation is ready to be in this relationship for about three hundred thousand a year.” Max was becoming frustrated by this man, who only shook his head. “That sounds rather idealistic,” Mr. Sommers said, leaning back even further.

“When have you ever heard of anyone who is from such a disadvantaged situation accomplishing a quality education?” Now Max leaned over the front of the desk and quietly said, “Be careful Mr. Sommers, your bias is unzipped. Let me assure you that there are many talented or gifted candidates caught only by poverty. Given an opportunity like I have suggested, they could do amazing things. In fact my future wife was in a foster shelter home for several years. She now has her MBA from the University of Phoenix, and decided her ing firm didn’t need her to finish her doctorate. You may do well to revisit the mission purpose of these hallowed halls.” He stood up and laid a document on the desk. “I may have been mistaken in my belief that this could be a mutually viable relationship. Perhaps you would this proposal along to your supervisor who might be able to look at its merits with a more open mind. Thank you for your valuable time.” He turned toward the door. “Wait Mr. Wall!” Now the registrar’s tone was nearly urgent. “You’re right, my prejudice is painfully evident, most painfully to me. I do apologize for any insult to you or your fiancé. I …” He really didn’t know what else to say. After an awkward silence, Max finalized the conversation by saying, “If there is someone of the leadership here who would like to pursue this discussion, someone other than a gatekeeper, have them me.” He gave Mr. Sommers one of his new Cyber Solutions cards. Before Max got back to the condo, there was a message on his answering service from Dr. Lloyd Carter, the president of George Fox College. “Mr. Wall, please forgive our short-sightedness. Your proposal is truly thrilling. We have rarely, if ever, had an unexpected windfall of this magnitude. It represents a one percent new growth dimension to our student body. But more than that, it rekindles the purpose of our school to make education available to all. I hope you will bring your proposal to me personally, at your convenience. Once again I apologize for our lack of vision. Wishing you a Merry Christmas, I hope you will return this call. Blessings.” When Sarah listened to the message, she had a wide smile. “It sounds like he really wants to talk with you, Max. Were you a little tough on someone?” she said lightly. “You must have used your FBI voice.” Her giggle was playful. “He seemed pretty earnest. Are you going back?”

“You bet!” he answered. “I didn’t plan to make such a frontal attack, but it certainly worked. When I chat with Dr. Carter, I’ll bet he offers some special consideration for the first year students, just to keep them in the program. It couldn’t have happened any better.” Sarah asked, “Max, how are you going to find candidates for this?” “Correction please,” he answered brightly. “It’s how are we,” he emphasized the word, “going to find candidates.” He was thoughtful for only a moment. “I think if you could Miss Linn, and Grace French, we could hear from the foster home folks; and if you could tell Eduardo that we have an opportunity for one or two of his cousins, the word would spread over the whole Willamette Valley farming community.” “Max, I’m really proud of what you are doing. It is so honoring to Dottie’s memory, even though we never met her. I like to think that dad Dalton is aware of it, and very thrilled with what we are doing.” It was another opportunity for Sarah to deliver a soft kiss. Max added, “And it turns the ill-gotten loot from Crenshaw into an honorable cause. I think this is going to be very memorable.”

Christmas Eve Dinner

I t was the first time Liz had been back in the condo since Halloween, when Max had learned how completely deceived he had been by Crenshaw. “Wow, Max, this is some place. I thought it was nice before, but this is,” she searched for the word, “spectacular!” She wandered from painting to painting, seeing them in new appreciation. “You had a good eye to rescue these babies.” Bret headed directly to the appetizers. “Hey Max,” he said as he poured himself a glass of wine, “did you make this jelly stuff?” Sarah answered instead. “That is his own creation. Put a small bit of cream cheese on a cracker and then spread some raspberry spice on top of it.” She watched as Bret followed her directions. “Oh wow,” the big guy declared, “it’s sweet enough to cover some of the spicy, and hot enough just to let a bit of the raspberry come out. Good job!” He bent to make another. For several minutes Sarah worked on being comfortable in the presence of actual FBI investigators. When Bret poured his second glass of wine, Max began to share with them his application of the Crenshaw funds into Dottie’s foundation, and their hopes for George Fox College. Finally he put the steaks on to grill and announced that dinner would be served in twelve minutes. Two of the steaks were destined to be medium rare, one rare, and the fourth one well done, just the way they were ordered. The menu was complete with a Caesar salad, fresh dinner rolls, steamed asparagus, Yukon Gold potatoes with a red wine gravy, and sautéed mushrooms for the steaks. Max winked at Sarah. If this should become his specialty, it was a fine one! Bret poured another glass of wine. When Max realized the bottle was empty, he opened another bottle. “This is fabulous Merlot,” Bret said enthusiastically. Mary Hill is a new label to me. I might have a new favorite.” “Max,” Liz began a subject that would carry them into the evening, “why aren’t you with your family tonight? Aren’t they local?”

“Yeah, they live in Tigard,” he answered with a grin. “But we’ve already been over there twice this month. And I wasn’t joking about having a high priority to show appreciation for what you two did for me. You make this a very special evening.” “We were just doing our job, which you made pretty easy as I recall.” Max chuckled, “Yeah I thought you were a knock-out.” He pursed his lips in mock surprise. “Hey wait, you did knock me out with that Tazer.” “I hope you have forgiven me for that,” she answered. Liz turned toward Sarah to ask, “Do you have family in the area?” Apparently that first experience was not one she wanted to talk about. Max was aware, however, that she was using a tactic to keep the subject away from herself, and he wondered why. Sarah answered honestly, “I have a mom somewhere. But she has been in either jail or rehab since I was a little child. The court took responsibility for me until Mr. Dalton adopted me. I haven’t heard anything from her since then. When he died I inherited the cherry orchard in Polk County. So I am looking forward to becoming part of Max’s family.” “Did Max tell us that you also work as an ant?” Liz was still in control of the questions. “Actually, it’s my business, with three other ants. I’m here from July until March, then in the orchard until it’s time to come back to Max.” Sarah had a sweetness that was captivating. “Well, buddy,” she turned back to Max, “I suppose you spend most weekends in the orchard then.” Liz was trying to be cordial and humorous. “We promised not to talk shop this evening, so I’m not fishing for assignments that might be coming my way. I don’t know what my weekends are going to look like from now on.” He took a deep breath before adding, “I was there when Mr. Dalton adopted Sarah, and visited the orchard pretty regularly until his death. You know how crazy everything got this past summer. I’ve only been down there twice this year.” She was about to ask him about his brother and sister when Max beat her to the punch. “Liz, we’ve told you about our family. How about yours? Are they all on

the east coast?” She was still for a long moment, then looking at Bret, she raised her eyebrows as though she had something difficult to say, and would rather not. But she did anyway. “Yeah, I have two older sisters. One is in Fort Lauderdale and the other is in San Diego. It’s like we went to the farthest corners of the country. In college I discovered my sexual preference and moved in with my partner, which was completely unacceptable to my dad. He and mom fought for a while, and then got a sad divorce. I have felt it was my fault, and haven’t talked to either one of them for years. My partner was not happy either when I went to training school in Virginia. She found a fresh partner and put all my stuff in storage. When the opportunity to station here in Portland came up, I saw it as a comfortable solution. I like it here, and working with Bret has been an answer to… Well you know what.” The quiet man entered into the conversation by saying softly, “She’s not telling the rest of the story, as they say. Her doctor has discovered a growth that must come out, and…” Liz wanted to spare him the rest of the , “And they’re going to do a hysterectomy next week. So we are going to take pretty much a month off. You can work on your Cyber Solutions and Dottie’s Foundation.” She was wearing a brave smile but her listeners knew it was a thin covering over a frightening adversary. “I’ve shown you mine, Bret, what’s your family story?” She was still trying to deflect. Max intervened, “Wait just a second, Bret. I want to hear about your family too, but let’s get a tiny bit of information from Liz, like which hospital? Do you need transportation to or from it? Can we lift a glass for your complete recovery?” Max was refilling their wine glasses, and pouring a splash of wine into Sarah and his Ginger Ale. “Dad calls this a summer cooler,” he said with a happy grin. He lifted his glass toward Liz, saying, “Here’s a toast: Liz here’s to a successful surgery. May your doctors be skilled and tender with you. May all that’s wrong be removed or repaired. May you know every step of the way through the scary times that you are not alone, we have your back and are praying that God’s amazing love will guide your doctor and you through it. His hand will comfort

you.” They drank from their glasses knowing that she had just received a prayer that could make a big difference. Tears trickled down her cheeks unchecked. They were quiet for a minute, listening to the Christmas music that was playing softly as background to their evening. “Now tell us about your family Bret.” Max was going to make sure he heard this as well. “This is a really happy evening Max. I don’t want to put a wet blanket on it.” Liz was quick to say, “Oh, are you having a hysterectomy too?” There was good natured chuckling, even though the subject was not funny. “My dad was a marine who didn’t come home from Vietnam,” the big man began. “My older brother, Paul was also in the corps, but safely in D.C. in intelligence gathering. Mom remarried a guy with two little boys, which made me feel like the house was too full. I met my wife Sharon when we were seniors in college. We were married the spring before graduation, and had Lisa, a baby girl by our first anniversary. I think Sharon was proud of me when the agency recruited me. She was a stenographer in the House, so my first station in became a big problem. She didn’t want to go along, and before I got back she was with someone else. Like Liz, when I saw the station opportunity as Urban Responder here in Portland I accepted it, grateful to be away from the east coast. Sometime I wonder about that little girl, who by now is in high school, and I wonder about my family. It’s been well over a decade since I last spoke with mom.” He didn’t say anything more so another long minute ed with only the faint melody of Christmas music. Max lifted his glass, saying, “Here’s another toast: May this night be one of joy. May our old memories that are pleasant, become precious treasures, and those which are painful be gently laid to rest. May this be a night when old bridges begin to be restored and pathways home be made as clear as the star over the manger.” They drank from their glasses, once again wanting to add an “Amen” after the toast. Sarah announced, “We have pecan pie for dessert, with vanilla ice cream. Who would like some coffee with that?” Liz assured her that she was the designated driver, but both she and Bret would have a cup, stout and uncut. Sarah also made sure that in the following minutes she got a lot of the information collected that Max had mentioned, including information for moms, Liz’s sisters, and

Bret’s people. She also knew when and where to send flowers to a surgery patient. As their guests were putting on coats, Max expressed again how glad he was to host them, and how grateful he was for their generosity. The guests were exuberant with praise for the evening. Liz told the hosts she couldn’t think of another evening so gracious and uplifting. “I feel like I’ve been in church,” she happily declared. “Say Max,” Bret asked off-hand, “whatever became of that other piece of property? Was there anything worthwhile there?” “I don’t know for sure,” he itted. “It’s in a great neighborhood, right above downtown. But the only time I have seen it was when I paid the back taxes, and that was pretty late in the afternoon. It was pretty hard to find and it was a bit too dark to see. All the utilities are turned off, and it’s locked tight. Thanks for reminding me about it though. Paying it another visit may be a New Year’s resolution. It’s got to have some value up there on the hill.” As they were saying ‘goodbye’ at the door Bret shook Max’s hand vigorously, expressing gratitude for a great evening and the promise of more. As Max hugged Liz, to her surprise, Bret was hugging Sarah. Then Bret turned toward Liz and tenderly kissed her, saying he had wanted to do that for a long while. Later she would confide to both men that the kiss had not been unpleasant, nor unwelcome.

New Rings

M ax and Sarah hurried to get the dishes in the dishwasher and the kitchen cleaned up, talking all the while about the evening. As they were waiting for the live podcast from Mountaintop, Sarah leaned into Max’s shoulder and said quietly, “I really like summer coolers.” They both laughed. When the inspiring service was concluded, Sarah said she was super tired and needed to get home to Trixy. Max asked for one more brief moment. “It’s Christmas morning,” he said softly. “When I was in San Francisco I saw something I think you will love.” He produced a small square box, which she immediately recognized as a ring box. She looked into his eyes and then at the small engagement ring she had been wearing for three months. “Is this what I think it is?” she asked. “Open it and I will explain it,” Max said with gentle excitement. She lifted the lid and gazed at two breathtaking rings. She would call them understated elegance. “The designer called it a ‘Trinity Ring’. The engagement ring has the larger three round cut diamonds, representing you, me and the Loving God who has brought us together. It also may be more traditionally understood as the three persons of God with us.” He looked into her eyes hoping that the ring was not too garish. “The wedding ring has the same round cut diamonds, but just one for you and one for me; two always in relationship to the greater. Do you like them?” Her quietness made him uneasy. “Oh Max, they are so perfect and so unique. May I try this one on?” She took off her engagement ring and slid the larger one on her finger. “It fits perfectly!” She began to weep. “How could I be so fortunate to have a man as considerate and wise, who loves me so sweetly? Yes, I love it!” She kissed him sincerely. “If you are happy with it, I’d like you to upgrade from our first ring. Please continue to wear the trinity until April when we add the wedding band.”

She really didn’t want to leave, but knew they would both be sad if she didn’t. “Thank you, Sweetheart,” she again said tenderly, “and Merry, Merry Christmas. Can you come over for a country breakfast in the morning? I mean later today.” She snickered playfully. Max kissed her goodnight and agreed to wait until 9 o’clock so they could get a bit of sleep. After her happy reaction to the new rings, he was sure what he would dream about. Still enjoying the emotional high from the previous evening, Max and Sarah enjoyed a familiar breakfast, and a pleasant gift exchange. He gave her a cashmere sweater, a University of Phoenix sweatshirt, and her favorite fragrance, Happy. She gave him two bound volumes of empty pages. “The first one is for you to record the events of the past year, and the second is to capture all that is going to make this year our best ever,” she said affectionately. She also gave him a copy of The Time Traveler’s Wife, and CDs of the Canadian Tenors, and a smooth jazz collection of seasonal music. Perhaps his favorite gift was the offer to accompany him to inspect the old downtown house. She was in her coat before he had finished saying, “thank you”.

Greenbrier Terrace

T he BMW’s GPS was guiding them through the business district: Burnside to 23 rd , go north 2.3 miles to NW Lovejoy, then turn west. They were making their way up the Hill Terrace District. GPS informed them, “In .8 miles it becomes NW Cornell Rd. In 1.8 miles turn left onto NW 32 th Dr. then turn at the first right onto Luray Terrace Dr. The third turn to the right is Greenbrier Terrace Pl. Your destination, 3100 Greenbrier Terrace Place is on the right.” Max itted there was no way he could have found it without instructions, and hoped the GPS could find their way home. “Wow, it’s big,” Sarah whispered, even though there was no one near to hear her. The imposing old house had an exposed basement on the front and two massive stories above that. It was obviously in a state of neglect; the brush was overgrown around it, and a thick layer of moss covered the roof. But there was a timeless elegance still evident, suggesting finer days gone by. It stood silent in the shadows of surrounding Fir trees, waiting. “Let’s see if this key from Crenshaw will open it.” Max said a bit breathlessly. He was both eager to look inside, and a bit leery of being disappointed in its derelict condition. They made their way up a few steps to a wide covered porch. “This sort of feels like a side door, with the city view on the other side.” But he was captivated by the location and the possibilities. He sort of grimaced when he tried the key. For a moment he thought it wasn’t going to open; then there was a click, and he smiled. “Come on in, it’s saying to us.” They entered a room with dark wood ing, with crown molding, and a spectacular view of the city below them, even through grime encrusted windows. There were two tall glass parlor doors that opened to another larger room with a fireplace. It appeared to Max that the windows were a continuation of those in the previous room, just as dirty, with just as spectacular a view. Beside the fireplace was a wide arch that opened to yet another wood ed formal room with a continuation of the easterly view. “Max,” Sarah said still with a whisper, “this is like a movie set. Have you ever seen anything as elegant?”

They followed a hallway that seemed to run transversely across the building with several rooms on the left side away from the formal rooms. At the far end of the hall they found a stairway which led to the top floor. Doors with empty rooms were on both sides, and they found a small bathroom of sorts. At the end of the hallway they discovered another stairway which they had missed when they entered the house. It returned them to the entry door. “Max,” again Sarah said quietly, “I am overwhelmed by this. It’s magnificent! I feel like we’re at a museum.” “Yeah, it smells musty and is dirtier than anywhere I’ve ever been.” He was quiet for a moment then said, “But I love it. What are we going to do with it?” “Do you think we could fix it up?” she answered carefully. “I’m not sure what that would mean. For sure we could clean it up and paint the outside. But if we put some real effort into it and modernized it, this could so outshine the condo. I’m trying to get my head around what that would require. He was lost in thought for a bit then added, “I think I told you that my dad is a civil engineer for the city. I’ll bet he would go ape over this sort of thing. At least he could give us some great advice.” From the back of the house they found a stairway that went down into the basement and decided neither of them was brave enough to go down into the darkness. “I’ve seen enough for today,” Max said finally. “Maybe we can bring the folks here in the next couple of days.” He was right about needing GPS to find his way home. He only got lost twice. He took Sarah home, and promised to call her as soon as he talked to his dad.

“Hi dad, it’s Max.” “You’re welcome. The guy at the store said it was a good winery.” “Yeah, last night we had some work friends over and Sarah said she enjoyed the summer cooler. I made it pretty mild for us, but it was good.” “Yeah, you’re welcome. Tell mom I appreciated mine too.” “Hey dad, you must know most of the old homes here in Portland. Are you familiar with one up on Greenbrier Terrace Place?” “Yeah, 3100. How did you know?” He listened for a long while. “Has it been empty for a long time?” He listened again. “Do you think it would take much to put it into a livable condition?” “Yeah, I’ve got a good reason to ask. What would you think if I told

you that I own it?” “I know. We just got back from looking inside.” “Yeah, free and clear.” He listened again, smiling at the reaction of his dad. “No, I’m not interested in the Historical Society’s desire or concern. Can you recommend someone whom I can trust to look at it as a renovation? Sarah suggested that we the Home and Garden Channel. They might give some motivation.” He was quiet again as he listened. “Yeah I know that it would be expensive. I’m more concerned about having good information right now.” “Well you know I’m not rich, but I think for this project, Sarah and I might be rich enough. Can you think of a couple guys you would recommend?” “Well of course. Bring her along.” “Yeah, I think she is more pumped about this old place than I am. She would love to see it again.” “That would work for us, if you think it would work for them.” He laughed at his dad’s humor. “Dad I don’t think it’s a good idea to tell folks I’m working for the FBI. I’m a contractor for them true enough, but the work I do must be confidential because it’s so sensitive. I would rather you just tell them I have a tech agency that works with rs. That’s pretty close to true.” “Yup, there is a ton of money to be made, and I believe I’m on the leading edge of it right now.” He listened once more. “Thanks dad, I appreciate your confidence. We’ll be there by 11 o’clock tomorrow morning. Give mom my love.” He called Sarah to tell her what he had learned. After their initial greeting, he told her: “Dad knows a lot about the property. It has been called the Landis Mansion, built in 1911 and 12, by Robert Landis. He couldn’t compete with his neighbor, who was Henry Pittock the publisher of the Oregonian, who had fifty acres and built a true mansion. It is now part of the Portland parks department, and is world famous. But Landis, a lumberman, purchased a three acre plot adjacent to Pittock’s that started the Hill Terrace district. It was never lavish, and was used more for business meetings and dinners than a residence. He sold it in the thirties and a couple families have tried to live in it, but always ran out of money. It was empty for a long while and then the Portland Police found a corpse out behind it. The old house was tied up in the courts until someone bought it as a tax seizure. Maybe that’s how Crenshaw got it. The Historical Society has been looking to get it donated for at least a decade. My dad is trying to understand how I got it.” Sarah asked, “Did you tell him the Crenshaw story?” “No I still think the less that story is circulated the better off we will be. There is bound to be someone, a family member, partner, or former victim who might want part of the action.”

“The good news,” Max said cheerily, “is that tomorrow morning at 11, dad and a couple construction contractors are going to meet us at the house for a real walkthrough. They are real eager to see it. I assumed you would want to come along because you seem even more fascinated by it than I am. Mom will be there too so you won’t need to deal only with guys. They can give us some ideas about renovation. If it’s too expensive, I’m sure there is someone who would be thrilled to buy the old place as a tear-down just for the fantastic view property.” “I just can’t entertain the thought of that as a tear-down. It is so beautiful inside,” Sarah said sadly. “Beautiful yes,” Max replied, “but completely impractical. I saw only one bathroom in the entire place. They must have counted on a two holer outhouse.” Sarah made a wry face. “Just that thought is enough to give me chills.” “Sweetie,” Max began a very serious conversation, “I’ve been thinking a lot about this. I can’t see owning two pieces of city property. The more I think about it the more I am convinced that the condo, as lovely as it is, has been tainted in my mind, and always will be. Crenshaw will always be in the shadows. If we could use the money from the sale of it to completely modernize the mansion, we would have a house to live in forever, big enough for family, entertaining guests or having kids. I think that could be a great investment, once we learn how to find it without getting lost. We could also put the basement to use, if it was also modernized, to operate Cyber Solutions as a legitimate business.” “I’m trying to keep an open unbiased mind,” Sarah smiled. “But when you mention having room for kids, my objectivity goes right out the window.” She giggled characteristically Max held up his pinky finger and said, “I’m holding up my pinky. Let’s help each other listen tomorrow as though this was someone else’s problem. I’m sure you will be able to see the numbers side of it and I will look at the functional side.” Sarah responded by holding up her little finger too. “I’ve got you,” she said, “It’s a promise.” Then after a pause, she said, “Hey, Max are you just trying to work me for another kiss? Would you like to come over for pizza tonight and we can talk about it?”

“Sure, I’ll pick some up on the way there.” He was happy to spend another evening with her. “I’ve already done that,” she chuckled. “But you can bring the rest of that wine bottle. If Bret left any, that is. I’ve got some Ginger Ale, and would sort of like another summer cooler.” Max couldn’t a more perfect day. The pizza had only a couple lone slices left and the glasses were emptied. Most of their conversation had focused on their feelings about the old house. Max had just said that he was feeling like it was an old friend that needed a lot of emergency care. “I’m willing to overlook the challenge of renovation because I can see how very special it could be.” Sarah smiled and said, “I know what you mean. I have given a ton more thought to what it needs than the practical concern over the cost. It’s like the old house is a member of our family already.” Max nodded thoughtfully, saying “I something Eric said. ‘The better in touch you are with your deep-seated positive feelings for each other, the less likely you are to act contemptuous of your partner when you have differing opinions’.” Sarah looked at Max, understanding that she was taking the conversation way off the subject, she said, “That was something of a no brainer, wouldn’t you say?” “What makes you say that?” Max asked looking closely at her expression. “Well,” she tried to hide the anxious smile that exposed her reluctance to go in a new direction. “There is still a little part of me that sort of feels needy just like the old house. I’m very confident of our friendship, but the second time Eric mentioned arousal, I really didn’t know what I should say about our sex life.” She shook her head with an embarrassed smile. “I’m still not tracking what you are saying,” he said careful not to sound negative. Max was not sure how the two subjects related. “We have maintained a responsible chastity that we promised to keep. I think our sex life is under control, as it should be.” “Well yes,” she said again, “I really love the way you hug me and kiss me, but I think that is more cerebral than physical arousal. I’m not sure I can get aroused.”

She finished it with a weak smile, now very aware they weren’t talking about the old house anymore. Max was still a bit confused how they had gotten on this subject, but he knew what he could do to help his best friend. He walked over to the couch and asked her to him. He sat on one end and asked her to stretch out, for which he got a very questioning look. “Just lie down with your head on the pillow and your feet on my lap. Do you trust me?” His question was more inviting than demanding. She nodded and did as he requested. She was wearing her gray dress with pink tights. Max eased off her shoes and began to rub her feet. He could tell that she was tense, so he asked again, “Do you trust me?” She took a deep breath and said, “Of course I do.” “Then close your eyes and relax,” he encouraged. “I won’t hurt you.” He rubbed her feet gently, careful not to tickle. He was kneading the balls of her feet and gently stroking her toes. It took a couple minutes of gentle attention before Sarah softly said, “That feels wonderful.” He rubbed the tops of her feet and arches and cradled her heel gently. “Mmmm,” she purred. “Do you want me to keep rubbing?” he asked tenderly. “Mmmm, yes I do. This is heavenly,” she replied softly. “Sweetheart, this is arousal.” Sarah’s eyes opened to stare at Max. “My body is giving your body pleasure and you desire more of it. It is just that simple.” “But this isn’t sexual,” she declared, remaining comfortable. “Oh to a lesser degree it is,” he said. “If I stroked your ankle, and then your leg,” his hands moved up only a little, “it might begin to feel forbidden, or inviting. Arousal is the response of one body to the presence of another. It may be mysterious to you, for which I am grateful, but I am confident that it will, in the right time and place, be very welcome.” He stroked the top of her foot and then tickled the side of it, which made her withdraw her feet from his lap. Her cheeks were a little flushed. Sarah sat upright and tucked her stocking feet under her. “Max, you are a really good teacher, but wasn’t that a fairly one-sided lesson? You weren’t aroused by

that, were you?” “I think that’s the lovely thing about arousal,” he said. “And that I am no expert here either. But I honestly think that when pleasure is given in love, it is always a two-way experience. Yes, I enjoyed your foot rub too, and found a new way to please you.” “Let’s change the subject sort of,” Max suggested. “I heard a speaker once describe the way God communicates with us when we are seriously seeking divine guidance. He called it the increase or decrease of desire. Maybe that’s how this sort of fits what we’ve just been talking about. We can apply that principal to the old house as we revisit it tomorrow. If it is not God’s will that we undertake such a massive task, we will feel less and less enthusiasm for it, less desire. On the other hand,” he paused for a long moment, “I have been able to think of little else all afternoon.” “That’s such a good suggestion, Max.” Her eyes held his. “I have been thinking a lot about it too, and I’m not sure I am remaining neutral. Will you pray with me that God’s guidance will be clear to both of us. I have heard that remodeling a house can be very hard on a marriage. Wouldn’t it be sad to begin ours with a major trial?” She reached for his hand and bowed her head. It felt strange to Max, but he knew it was very right. He held her hand and prayed. “Loving Lord, Jesus with us, you are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Help us tonight see more clearly the way we ought to take, to know more fully the truth we ought to know, and to live more faithfully the life we ought to live. If the task before us is steep, guide us to invest in it fully that we may only serve you more perfectly. We do not seek wealth or acclaim, but a way to take up our cross as a blessing, and follow the footsteps of him who came that we might be free, in Jesus’ name. Amen” Sarah whispered, “Amen.” Before he went home, Max suggested that they dress in grubbies for the visit to the old house. “Maybe we can even get a look at the basement,” he said playfully. They agreed to watch the podcast of Mountaintop’s worship service in the afternoon, and invite his folks to have dinner with them at the Olive Garden. Then they could hear another opinion about the project. When Max kissed Sarah goodnight, he was aware that she pressed against him in a new and provocative way.

Sarah watched Max walk out to his car. She was thinking that he was very right. When one body gives another pleasure, the giver receives pleasure as well. Oh yes, she does!

The Old House

T hey were the first ones to the old house. Actually, Max gave himself enough time to get lost again, but GPS worked its magic. He had stopped by the hardware store to pick up a couple flashlights and some WD40. They walked all the way around the outside, wondering at the fact that the house was older than many of the big Fir trees that nearly surrounded it. Out of sight, hidden by brush, they discovered what must have been a barn or pump house. Moss and decay had won the battle of time; now it was merely a pile of rotted boards. Sarah looped her arm around Max’s, snuggling close to him. “I feel much like the first time I saw the orchard,” she said softly. “It was not this rundown, but it was a friend begging for attention, and it also had a stability and charm in it. There is something about old elegance that feels familiar to me. I really like this place.” They heard another car arrive so they hurried back to the front. Max’s dad, Stan, was looking east, over the city. “Wow! I’ll bet when the clouds lift, there will be a million dollar view of Mt. Hood from here,” he said in greeting. “Hey Max, when did you get the BMW?” Max’s mom ed them and there were hugs around. Sarah enjoyed that quality about his family. They watched a pickup make its way up the hill, and two smiling men also ed them. Stan introduced Terry Cobb from Columbia Construction, and John Stephenson from Stephenson Construction. “We work together on various jobs, and are on several city committees,” Stan said, “including the Historical Society.” The men were sharing a happy grin. They all stood gazing at the old house until Stan said, “Well, bubba, are you going to invite us in?” It was the beginning of a two hour introduction to wonder. Max learned that the two contractors had different points of view. Mr. Cobb was prone to rehabilitate and restore former splendor, while Mr. Stephenson leaned toward upscale contemporary remodeling. Both men were appreciative of the walnut ing and crown molding in the lower rooms, and they agreed on the surprising condition of the floors and stairs. Mr. Cobb noted that all the lath and plaster would have to be removed, which would make installation of plumbing

and electricity a cinch, but a huge amount of sheetrock. Terry marveled at the size of the old house. “There is over six thousand square feet on each floor! And these are at least twelve foot ceilings, maybe more.” John’s observation was not so positive. “But it’s chopped up in so many small rooms. I wonder how many of these are weight bearing walls. It would be amazing to open some of them together.” Terry responded, “I think the hallway walls are weight bearing.” Stan pitched in on the commentary, “The strong design is begging for a modern renovation.” Upstairs the comments continued. “With this amazing view, these narrow rooms with small windows seem to waste it.” “There is only this one bathroom up here?” “It reminds me of a cheap hotel with fifteen small boring rooms.” “This reminds me of a blank canvas before the artist begins. There is a ton of possibilities here.” “No wonder no one has been able to live here. It’s never been completed as a home.” The ladies expressed no interest right now to explore the basement. Sarah said, “When you can tell me there are no spiders or nasty things down there, I’ll be glad to come and see it.” John said, “The only access to the basement I’ve been able to see is that storm cellar sort of stairs that goes down from the back side of the house.” There was no lock on the door and when they tried the knob it opened under protest. “It’s never been locked,” he said in surprise. “I’m amazed that someone hasn’t discovered this and made it a hangout.” That raised the hackles on Max’s neck, and for just a moment he considered ing the ladies. They found more of the mystery of the house’s use of space. The overhead unfinished floor joists were at least ten feet high, and something of a cement floor covered the whole space and appeared completely dry. There were a few water pipes and wires. Near the center, probably under the parlor fireplace chimney was an immense derelict sawdust furnace, which apparently had very little heat distribution ability to the house with only four heat pipes. There was a shell of a water heater beside a deep sink. The good news was the drain pipe which indicated some sewer availability. Max was seeing incredible possibility

to use the space commercially. Max asked no one in particular, “Do you think a heat pump system could work down here?” Could a solid floor be made? How about a better entrance, and three or four office rooms? I’m wondering if a stairway could be made from the upstairs so I could have a man-cave, maybe a wine cellar down here. Oh my gosh, there are so many possibilities.” They retraced their tour through the main and upper floors, this time both contractors took measurements and made notes of improvements and suggestions for additions. Finally Sarah said she could use some lunch, and Max invited them all to Appleby’s on Burnside. “We can think about the scope of the project,” he said bravely. There was plenty of conversation fluttering around the table until they ordered their lunches. Then Max established his leadership by asking, “Dad, how tough will it be to get a remodeling permit from Multnomah County?” “I’ve been wondering the same thing,” Stan answered. “On one hand there is a pretty good back log on new construction projects right now. That could mean five or six months.” Max grimaced. “But on the other hand,” his dad continued with a grin, “this might be the premier remodel in the city. There’s a longer line of people who would like to see something done about the old derelict place, especially with these two contractors doing the work.” He raised his eyebrows and added, “I’m more concerned with the finances than the permit.” The contractors nodded in agreement. Max didn’t acknowledge that comment. Speaking to the contractors, he said, “Dad has faith in both of you, so I do too. I don’t want to choose which one of your companies should get the nod for the job, so could you work together on it? I wonder if you, Terry,” he looked directly into his eyes, “could give consideration to the new roof and the basement which is going to be the cashcow shortly with four or five good size office spaces, and a bathroom. You could also advise me on a heating system and water heaters. For sure we are going to need some extra electrical systems and fiber optic connectivity. I’m thinking we will need some covered parking in the back and additional access both into the kitchen and basement.” The contractor shook his head. “You’re probably talking four hundred thousand,

maybe five.” Max didn’t slow down. “It would be great if there was a stairway down from one of the rooms upstairs so we could have a good sized meeting room or multipurpose informal space. That would need another security door out the east side and maybe a good sized patio.” Sarah continued to listen with a playful smile. John said, “Before our food gets here, tell me about your wish-list for upstairs.” Max thought a moment before saying, “Well I really like the rooms with ing. They have an old charm that I hope we can just clean up. I liked your comments about taking down some walls. The kitchen is already pretty large for a complete variety of appliances, but it would be neat to have an eating area, maybe with French doors out onto a back deck. I think we should have a guest room with a private bathroom, and another bathroom on the hallway, maybe even another powder room near the entry. One of the rooms could be a media room, and another a library, or office. There are so many options, I haven’t had time to think much about that. I really welcome your suggestions. Upstairs I think we should have four big bedrooms with new larger windows and access into bathrooms between them. It would be great to have a play area, maybe a multi-use area. I would hope the master bedroom could have a private bathroom with a walk-in closet with built in storage. Oh, I think the laundry room should be somewhere up there since that’s where most of the wash comes from.” While he was talking, their food arrived and Max said a blessing prayer, much to the enjoyment of his parents. They were seeing a side of their son that was new and somewhat mysterious. After a couple bites, John asked, “Would you like a gas fireplace?” “That would be great,” Max said with a big smile. He wasn’t the only one making suggestions. John asked another question. “Have you given any consideration to the outside color?” Sarah replied, “What would you think about a moss green with coffee colored trim?” “That would blend well with the neighbors, and fit right into the forest,” John

answered. “Speaking of forest,” Max said, “How complicated would it be to cut down some of these big trees? This is a three acre parcel, most of which is overgrown.” His dad said, “Yeah, that could be a challenge, but this is the proper time to get permission. You would just need to mark the ones you want thinned out, and make sure you have a plan to replant other trees. We know a guy who has a log truck that will buy these and remove most of the limbs. He won’t do anything with the stumps though.” “We can work that out,” Max grinned as though it was already accomplished. “Sarah wants to plant either cherry trees or camellias. Miss Linn had some in the backyard that were beautiful,” Max explained. John looked closely at Max. “Son, we are talking at least another million for this work. We haven’t thought about insulation, and refinishing the floors is also an unknown. You didn’t blink when Terry talked cost, and I didn’t see much reaction now. Do you realistically think this is financially doable?” “If we don’t run into any big surprises, I’m more concerned about working this into your busy calendars. Will this really be, what did dad call it, the premier remodel in the city? If you guys can work together, coordinating on some of the jobs, we’ve got the funds ready to go. How long do you think it will take?” Terry looked at John saying, “If the money is ready to go, I can have some design cad-drawings by midweek.” “Me too,” John smiled with satisfaction. “Let’s meet 10 o’clock Thursday morning at your conference room. Stan, we’ll have enough for you to take to the permit office for a preliminary. Weather permitting, we might be ready to go by the first of the year.” Max wanted to sing as he winked at Sarah. She gave him a dazzling smile in return. They were both experiencing an increase of desire; yes increase definitely His folks were glad to accept the invitation for supper at the Olive Garden. They felt a need to understand Max’s finances. Sarah suggested it would be a good time and place to tell at least part of his October adventure. They agreed to meet at 8 o’clock. That way the crowd would be thinned out a bit.

They found a corner table where they could hear one another a bit better. After listening to the growing excitement from his folks, Max said, “Sarah has encouraged me to tell you about a near disaster I had in October.” His folks became focused and serious. “The job I thought would be fabulous, turned out to be bogus. A con man completely dazzled me with a captivating offer. I was lucky the FBI intervened on Halloween, literally saving my life. I didn’t even know the danger I was in until it was over. They asked me if I could reverse some illegal activity the bad guy had committed and I was able to retrieve seventeen million dollars for the IRS. I got paid 10%, and the offer to become a contract employee. The bad guy died in a car wreck, and with no relatives, I was able to claim a whole bunch of personal stuff, including two properties, and the BMW, by simply paying all the back taxes.” Looking at his dad, Max said, “I don’t want to spread this news beyond the four of us. I mean it. I didn’t want to talk money with Terry and John because it’s so sensitive. But I want you to be assured, we have enough funds to do the remodel. On top of that, there is a condo right across from the zoo worth over a million dollars that I’m going to sell.” His folks stared at him in awe. “My job now is pretty much the same sort of thing, except now the FBI tells me what and who. Last week, in one morning, I conducted eleven cyber seizure transactions, which will net me over two million dollars. The money is literally unlimited because there are so many illegal situations to be discovered.” Sarah said, “He’s telling you the truth. It’s scary how much money he has acquired. We have established a foundation to help poverty kids go to college. His initial deposit is over four million dollars. I am so proud of him.” Max waited for his folks to say something. When they didn’t he said, “On top of everything, when I worked at Metro, I developed a brand new configuration of color pixels that makes a 3D computer presentation. I am about to present it to the world, and expect a tidal wave of activity. That’s what I want the basement for, offices for Cyber Solutions.” Stan raised his eyebrows, trying to process all that. Finally, he said, “I’ll need to find out if the house is zoned for commercial use, at least cottage industry.” “If our next door neighbor, the Pittock Mansion, is open for tours and banquets,” Max asked, “wouldn’t there be a good chance we, as a historic gem, would be too? Maybe we could be a bed and breakfast.” There wasn’t much interest in

small talk. He had given them a lot to ponder.

Sean

E arly Monday morning when Max booted Michael, he found several emails from Liz. The first was a gracious “thank you” for the Christmas Eve dinner. She said there were several topics that were unfinished, and she was hoping they could revisit them later. Then she forwarded a batch of targets from the Justice Department, targets for Michael, except one. Its subject line simply said, “ATENTION!” Max chose to open none of them until he talked with Sean. A sleepy voice answered, “Max, what the heck are you doing up this early, and why haven’t I talked to you for months?” Max smiled at the thought of rolling his friend out of bed. “Well if you had a real job,” Max joked, “you wouldn’t be playing games all night. Are you awake enough to have a serious conversation?” “Almost,” his friend answered. “Is this about the cherry orchard lady? Are you guys finally serious?” Max could detect a degree of alertness in his voice, so he said. “We are serious, and I want to tell you about that. But I have something bigger that I need to share with you and get some help, maybe. Have you still got that, what did you call it, Fly trap?” Sean was now fully awake, and on guard. He slowly said, “Yeah, but it’s a long ways from public.” “I know,” Max said softly. “But I’m suspicious of a forwarded file, and I hope you can look at it with the trap.” “Just delete it, cowboy!” his friend advised. “Pal, I am way beyond that, into some really deep stuff. If you can bring the trap, I’ll tell you some of it. I’m thinking it will change your future too, big time.” He gave Sean the address and parking instructions. He said he would be there within the hour.

When Sean arrived he was pleased to see the condo, but more immediately glad for the nutrition bars and chocolate protein drink. Max said, “I thought I’d better feed you breakfast before putting you to work. “Max, this place it gorgeous!” he said between bites “Do you get to work here all the time?” Sean was impressed. “Work first,” Max said playfully, and then we’ll talk.” His friend opened a laptop, hooked a square device to it then unhooked the phone connection from Michael, and reattached it to the device. “Boot me up, Scotty!” Within moments the laptop screen contained the list of unopened emails. “These are my FBI assignments for the morning,” he explained to his friend. “We can look at them if you like. It’s this one that I am concerned about.” He pointed to the suspect. “What in the world are you doing looking at FBI files, Max?” His friend was protecting the high ground; at least he thought he was. But he clicked on the one in question. “No, this is all good,” he said as he scanned the four paragraph document. It’s just a warning that … Son of a gun! It’s a siphon with a three minute delayed execution. That’s why it’s so lengthy. If you take time to read it, your computer will have scanned it for malware, finding none. Then it kicks on, and has copied all your files to this IP address. That is so sneaky!” “Let’s check out the rest.” They went through the other unopened emails, finding no problems. Then Max asked Sean to hook the trap up to Michael to scan the assignments he had worked on for the last week. Sure enough, one of the stolen car assignments had the same malicious software tucked into the long list of numbers. Max immediately sent an email to his supervisor in D. C. “My security people have discovered a delayed command tucked in two emails recently received.” He gave them the dates and numbers. “Open them with caution; there is a three minute trigger. They both originated in your office.” His signature simply stated, M Wall, Contractor 2171. “Max, we need to talk,” his friend murmured. “We sure do,” Max answered. “You have just earned more than the church pays you in a month. I can’t tell you everything, but….” He told him enough to get

the general picture of the past three months. Then demonstrated how Michael could stop the inmates at the Marion County Jail from running a scam that had received a number of complaints. With a keystroke he sent the Cannibal to do its lethal work. “I’ve just completely disabled their computers and servers, turning them into junk. I may have even disabled part of the computer-driven prison functions. It would take the factory technicians to reprogram it again. There’s no reward in that one, but a lot of satisfaction.” “But Max,” Sean asked with a worried expression, “what about due process, and what if those bad guys come after you?” “If there is a seizure, money is only captured as FBI evidence, pending legal activity. If the activity is as illegal as it is suspected to be, there will be no response to the prosecutor’s subpoenas, and the evidence will be declared abandoned. I will receive a 10% reward for my service. For my security, I developed my own malware that can erase my activity clear down to the hard drive history.” “Wow! That’s ingenious! I get to play games, and you get to do the real thing.” Sean looked around the condo, and then said, “And you get to do it in the nicest place I’ve ever seen.” “Are you interested to see how easy it is?” Max asked quietly. He ed one of the emails Liz had sent. A motorcycle shop was buying wrecked bikes, removing the VIN numbers and reattaching them to a stolen bike which, when repainted, could be sold out of state. Max quickly found the three bank s used by the shop, and seized them all, leaving the signature, “FBI evidence seizure pending legal action.” “It may take a couple of months for folks not to respond to court subpoenas, but my reward will happen eventually, paying twenty thousand dollars. Some of the time, if there is no nefarious activity, they might get their money back. So far, that has never happened.” “Do another one,” Sean said sounding like a little boy. Max found a Las Vegas motel owner who was suspected of operating an illegal gambling house, with prostitution. He also had three bank s, probably one for the ant, one for the mob, and one skimmed off the top for himself. All three were seized with the same tag. “If no attorney tries to recover

those funds, I have just earned another thirty thousand dollar reward.” Max shrugged, “It’s just numbers,” he said, not knowing whether he should be happy or sad. “Max,” his friend was nearly speechless, “how many of these do you get to do a day?” “My FBI handler sends me eight or ten most days. Some are for seizure, some for destruction, and some for investigation. A week ago I was destroying a child porn shop when I identified a man and a woman who were using children to make the trash. They were arrested the next day and their international buyers are still being rounded up. I feel extra good about that.” A pop-up announced that Max had an email from his supervisor. It read, “Great job Max. We want to know how you worked that out. Our security people are still finding corrupted emails, that went unnoticed. Give me the name of your tech.” “This is how it starts, Sean,” Max said quietly. “If I were you, I would get the trap patent pending as soon as possible, maybe even adapted to discover hacking. I’m convinced they will take it away from you if they can. You could probably sell the prototype to some tech company, or be working for the FBI by the first of the month if you choose. All I have to do is give him your name.” Max looked steadily into his friends eyes. “Let me pray about it,” Sean replied finally. “There’s a lot to consider. But it sure looks like you’re doing all right.” “I have another request for your time in the morning,” Max grinned. “I can pay you for this one. I’m going to need a video camera at George Fox College. It’ll pay you a couple hundred dollars for about a half hour’s work. If it works as well as I think it is going to, you may have a whole new employment path to consider, with a boatload of money to be made.” They chatted for awhile about Max and the future. “I’ll see you at 9:30 tomorrow morning,” Sean said brightly. “This might be my last day to be broke.” Max finished his assignments and called Liz to report the successful morning and the presence of an uninvited malware, which he had reported. As he was

chatting with her, he was writing himself a reminder to have flowers delivered to her room at Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital. He concluded, “Sarah and I will give you a day to shake off the goofy juice, but we want to visit you on Wednesday evening.” “What, do you want to hold my hand?” Liz asked in a brusque voice. “No ma’am” Max replied cheerily. “We want to visit our friend, and pray for her full recovery. O.K.?” “Yeah, Max” she said now more friendly. “It’s O.K. but very unusual for me to have friends that would just stop by to pray. I will be grateful, even if I don’t have a chance to fix my makeup.” They chatted for just a couple more minutes.

George Fox Revisited.

T hen Max called Dr. Lloyd Carter, at George Fox College. “Good morning sir, I’m Max Wall, returning your call. I wonder if I could stop by your office about 9:30 in the morning.” When the president happily agreed, Max asked further, “Do you think you could get one freshman male and one female to read a thirty second trailer that might be a pop-up for Dottie’s Foundation on your website. They need do nothing other than just read the script. I’ll pay them a hundred dollars for their time.” Again the president agreed, after Max promised to get his approval on any final draft. Then he tried to write a meaningful thirty second sound bite. “Hello friend. Have you ever hoped to attend such a wonderful school, only to have the lack of finances stand in your way? Me too! Here’s my face before Dottie’s Foundation helped me, and here it is today! Just follow the instructions. Happy future!” Satisfied with that, he sent Sarah an email, telling her that he especially missed her, after being with her four days in a row. He also told her that the old house was very much on his mind. “I am feeling the increase of desire for it… and for you especially!” She replied immediately that those were her exact words, especially the last ones.

In the morning Sean was waiting for Max when he arrived at the istration Building. Sean had set his camera on a tripod and was ready to go. “Good morning buddy,” Max said as he approached. He noticed a young man and woman standing near the door. The young lady stepped out to ask, “Are you the ones who want us to read a script?” “The very same,” Max grinned. “You are a perfect model this morning,” which

made her smile warmly. The young man ed them, waiting for instructions. To Sean he suggested, “Be in tight enough to really see their big smile.” Then as though he had just ed a debt, he added, “Oh, here’s your hundreds.” He offered him three one hundred dollar bills, grateful that he had visited the bank yesterday. He faced the pair on the steps saying, “We’ll record you, one at a time. It’s only twenty seconds long, so it’s real easy.” He held up a large card with the words clearly printed. I’ll hold it just above the camera so it will look like you are making eye in the video.” He had them read it together a couple times for practice. “I’m hoping you can have a friendly face at first,” he was sounding like a director, “but when you come to the ‘and here’s my face now,’ you will that whichever one has the most believable grin, will get double pay, O.K.?” The young man went first and at the appropriate cue generated a wide smile, quite believable. When his female counterpart, however, hit those crucial words, she sort of giggled with her radiant smile. She was the unofficial winner. Max had two hundreds for each of them, saying he couldn’t have ask for better models. “This is going to be a very special sound bite,” he told them. “We are going to introduce a new video concept that will be revolutionary. Look for it either on the school’s website, or on YouTube in the next few days. Your invitations will run alternately in seriatim.” As the students walked away, they were delighted, planning how they would spend their cash. Max asked Sean if he could get a couple minutes of footage of the campus, especially this brick building. “Can we meet for lunch at the Red Robin by your place? I have a bit more in my advertising budget, and I’ve got another big surprise that you’re going to love.” He was right on time when he arrived at Dr. Carter’s office. He was asked to go right in. The president came from behind his desk to shake hands with Max. “Thank you for making another trip to George Fox. I think you’ll find a couple eager students on the front steps. They were all smiles when I told them of your plans for our webpage.” “We’ve already met and they were delightful, and glad to receive a bit of spending money to boot.” He told Dr. Carter his idea for the Foundation tab on the school’s web site. “To be sure,” Max said reassuringly, “you will see and

give your approval before we take another step.” “Tell me,” the president asked, “how did you come to choose George Fox, when there are so many fine schools in the Portland area?” “You were at the top of our list all along,” Max said smiling. “An alumnus, Kate Linn, was the house director for a foster shelter home.” Dr. Carter said, Yes, I them. Bradley’s death was such a tragedy.” “The shelter home that Kate operated,” Max continued, “was the residence for my fiancé several years ago. Kate’s tender care and strong faith are precious treasures to my Sarah today. It was easy for us to choose George Fox.” “But not so easy to get past our gatekeeper, huh? Now I understand the sensitive nerve Mr. Sommers stepped on. I apologize for him again.” Dr. Carter also had a smile. “A small hesitation,” Max observed. “Few schools would turn down millions of dollars in student assistance that require only a bit of patient understanding for students who may have a slow start. I was sure we would get beyond that rocky beginning, and I am confident the candidates that come to you will make you proud in the long-run.” “What can we do for them that would be helpful?” “I think they will do fine as long as the faculty is reminded that most of these candidates will not have enjoyed the twelve or thirteen years of structured preparation of your standard student. But they are every bit as bright and perhaps even more motivated.” Dr. Carter complimented Max for his ionate of students, and wondered if he might be interested in sitting in on committees, or fund raising. Max assured him that his cup was overflowing now. When he left the office, he was certain that the structure of a fantastic program was set.

Tri-X

M ax spotted Sean in a corner booth. They chatted a bit about the morning adventure on campus. Sean laughed when he recounted how Max had offered to double the cash for the one who could get the best grin. When Max opened his laptop and booted up, he asked Sean for the disk. Once the file was opened, he could scroll down until he found the change in their smiles, then the rest of the file was highlighted. He said, “Sean, watch the big change.” He pushed insert. Then he saved the file, and reopened it to the start. There was a long pause as the computer worked its magic. When the clip began, they viewed the campus in morning gray, then the students. “Oh my goodness!” Sean murmured as the colors became more pronounced and turned three dimensional! He turned the screen from side to side as though the image would change. “Max, that’s an amazing miracle! Will it affect any file?” Max answered with his big grin, “Any digital with dimension will show it. I especially like what it does to faces. They seem like you can actually feel them.” “Oh my goodness! May I see it again? This is enormous, Max! What are you going to do with it?” Max looked deeply into Sean’s eyes. “I’m going to find someone I can trust with my life. I will invite that person to me in a tech advertising agency called Cyber Solutions, which will turn our world on its ear.” He paused for a moment. “Think of the temptation to someone who would want to get away with it. I’ve even programmed this demonstration with a timer that will erase everything, including the hard drive so no one can steal it. We’ve got about ten more minutes to examine it. It only exists on a master disc to keep it out of reach of any hacker. I’m pretty jumpy with it.” “But you are showing it to me. Does that mean you’re going to kill me, or do I get to come to work at Cyber?” Sean asked his friend, a bit nervous about the answer to both questions, either positive or negative. Max didn’t say anything for a long pause, nearly uncomfortably long. “There is no one except Sarah that I trust as much as you, Sean. I can imagine us building

a dynasty with this tool. Sooner or later someone will duplicate it, although that took me over two years to do; they might find a way to acquire a copy.” Again, he took a long slow breath. “But until then, Amigo, we could have the time of our life. Let’s pray about this for a couple days. God’s guidance will help us know the path we should take.” He reached across to grasp Sean’s hand. “I’ll hang on to the campus disk. I can service the school’s website by adding our tab to it. I will also post a copy of it on YouTube. Then we will hold our breath and see what happens. You are welcome to hang out with me at the condo to see what sort of response we get.” Wednesday afternoon he and his laptop were back at George Fox College. He promised president Carter that he would only take a moment to demonstrate the pop-up. With his approval, Max would also add the file to the school’s website. “This is going to be revolutionary,” he said to Dr. Carter. “People are going to be badgering you to tell them how it works. Are you ready?” When he nodded Max pressed “XHD.” The first forty seconds of the video were standard and predictable. Then with “and here’s my face now,” the color changed and for the life of him the president thought the screen of the monitor did too, into amazing 3D! “How in the world?” he muttered. “I would be glad to tell you, but it’s a mystery to me too. Would you like it applied to the website?” That was a rhetorical question. Installation was quick and easy. When he got back to the condo, he only had fourteen minutes before delete time to copy it to YouTube.

Hospital Visit

A s Max was walking with Sarah down the fourth floor hallway, she said that she was reminded about her recovery after the assault. She wanted to hold him close to her. They weren’t surprised to see Bret already in Liz’s room, sitting beside her bed. “There are our friends,” he said softly. Her eyes opened and she gave a weak smile. “She’s been pretty sedated all day,” the big guy said, “but they took care of the problem. They got it all.” The three chatted a bit about the hospital, the cute nurses, and the quiet calm of Good Samaritan. Bret said “I’ll bet there are plenty of noisy places in this building, but this isn’t one of them. Sometime I feel like we are the only two people around. It’s nice.” Sarah walked to the bed and placed her hand on Liz’s arm, and Max stood beside her. Bret stood up to stand next to Sarah. Liz nearly smiled and said, “Look here, my three best friends stop by to pray for me. I’m a lucky lady.” Her eyes closed, but they knew she was still awake. Max placed his hand on her head and said, “Loving Lord, in this place of healing we pray for your comfort, surround and Liz. Let her know the peace that is beyond our understanding; even at this moment your powerful healing is at work. And when she returns home to continue healing, may she continue to be aware of your strengthening holy presence. We give you thanks for the women and men who treat and care for her. They are your angels, in Jesus’ name. Amen.” Her eyes opened again and she whispered, “Thank you Max.” It was a sweet and grateful side they had not seen before. Sarah and Bret returned to the chairs; Max remained near Liz. Bret broke a lengthy silence by saying, “Max, tell her that it would be O.K. for her to let me care for her at my place when she gets to go home. I told her I have plenty of space, there’s even an extra bathroom. I could give her all the help she needs.” “Well Bret, I don’t think I need to tell her, you just did. But I can tell her I think it’s a really good idea. After major surgery, folks need lots of help for the first

week, that’s why they call it ‘major’. Folks are still pretty unsteady for another week or two after that. Besides, you two are a darned good team.” He looked at her closed eyes and said rather forcefully, “Hey Liz, make this big lug take you home and give you TLC. If he’s too lazy, I’ll do it, but I think he’d do a better job.” Her eyes remained closed, but her smile was pretty strong. Sarah leaned over and kissed her forehead. “We’ll come back again tomorrow night when you are a little stronger, and I’ll probably talk your ear off, again.” That made her eyes open and the smile became even brighter.

Reno Deal

M ax picked up Sarah at her office in time to make the meeting with the contractors. “I’ve been praying about this since we left the hospital last night,” she said. “Max I’m more excited about this than anything I can . Do you think it’s because I’m thinking this will be our home together?” Her smile was radiant. He matched her joy. “Yup, I think it’s that, and I think it is because we are creating a symbol of our future, something elegant and completely positive we can do with Crenshaw’s leftovers. We are making it ours, on a grand scale.” He ired her Dalton plaid jacket. As it turned out, they were the last to arrive at Columbia Construction. The group was already gathered around drawings spread out on the conference table. Even Max’s mom was there with his dad. Obviously this was an excited crowd. After handshakes and hugs, Max’s dad started the conversation by telling about an unusual day at the permit office. Not only had he been welcomed, eventually there was a group of planners that were pushing for the authorization of the remodeling permit, and pledging their help in moving it along. “If you will pay the eleven hundred dollar fee,” his dad announced, “you can get the first part of the permit today.” When Max frowned at the words “first part,” his dad clarified, “They could only authorize the work for the current footprint. You can begin immediately. Adding a car port and cutting down trees might take another meeting. I’ll tell you,” he beamed, “these guys want that building fixed up. It has been an embarrassing eyesore too long.” Terry spread out his drawings. The top one was a colored exterior of the proposal. Everyone took a deep breath. Stan said, “Oh my goodness; that is dramatic!” Sarah said with something like a sob, “It’s a dream come true.” Terry went right into his description. “I heard you say there are two primary uses for this huge basement space,” he began, “with industrial carpeting over wood floors throughout. If we mirror the hallway upstairs, we can have this area” his hand indicated the west side, “for office spaces; five large offices, two restrooms, a conference or work space, and a center foyer. The east side would have two heat

source service utility rooms, an electrical room, a large storage space, a wine cellar, and a humongous open area with a wet bar. Stairs would go up to the room designated as library. There would be two new outside doors on the north and south sides, to meet code, and two double steel doors on the east and west sides, again to meet the fire code. The walls and ceiling would be insulated and covered with sheetrock, and I counted almost a hundred can lights throughout. This will be a show stopper! Depending on the choice of roofing we can do all this for $640,000.” Max waited for someone to say something. When that didn’t happen he said, “Terry, that is sensational! That’s beyond what I hoped for.” John said, “Good job, that sets the bar pretty high.” It was obvious that these were two old friends. “Our biggest challenge is utilities. This house is not hooked up to water or sewer, maybe that old rotten building back in the trees was the pump house. I’m not sure where the electricity came from, so that’s first on the to-do list. We might also see about paving the driveway and parking rather than turning winter mud into soup, which would complicate the job. I’ll see about that right away.” He took a breath. “About twenty percent of the downstairs only needs cursory attention, mostly new electrical supply and lights.” He spread his drawing. “We need some interest in the entryway. I’m thinking we could add a coat closet here, and painting highlights on this wall. Here’s the large living room, and the ading dining room, which will have floor plug-ins and high lights, plus a folding wall into the library. There is a media room, and an impressive office, already existing. But the rest is going to be fun! The first step will be demo, preparing to replace all the lath and plaster with sheetrock. That will let us wire and plumb. I’ve put a nice size powder room just off the entryway.” His hand moved a bit. “The kitchen is going to have a walk-in pantry, huge counters and a large island with a gas cook-top and vent, quartz counters and top of the line appliances. There is never enough cupboard space so we are going to have extra, matching as closely as possible the wood in the front room ing. This wall goes, so we can have a family sized eating area with French doors that open to a deck. By the way, that deck can also be the covering for the basement entryway.” “This end of the house gets interesting. You wanted a full guest room, so there is a three room suite on the east side. But on this west side I am proposing two smaller apartments with bathrooms, for either guests, or residential staff.” He continued, even though there were several who could have made comments.

“Upstairs there are four bedrooms with two baths shared with pocket doors as well as hallway doors, a large play area, a utility work room for laundry and ironing. Oh, I nearly forgot, all the bedrooms have walk in closets, or built ins with storage galore. The east windows are enlarged and all the windows, front and back, up and down, are replaced with double pane. The master bedroom will have two walk-ins and a five piece bathroom. That’s eight bedrooms total, and six and a half bathrooms. All accessible exterior walls will have sprayed on insulation and of course the attic will be insulated. If all our utilities are available at the street, which I’m pretty sure they are, we can do this job in three months for one point four million.” He looked at Max. A satisfied grin held his face as Max said, “That is fantastic! You held it right at two million. Put it in contract form and I’ll sign it. Sarah has volunteered to be our check writer so she will pay all draws with receipts. Will she pay subs, or will you, John?” He pushed copies of the door key to each man. The contractor loved the casual efficiency of this meeting. “I’ll do that. They will give me a better price than they would if you were paying.” He stood, saying, “By the way Max, I have an interior decorator, Gwen, who does all our staging. She’s on a first name basis with the antique warehouse and the consignment places. I don’t know how much furniture you have but I’ll bet with all these new rooms you might use her help. I’ll give her Sarah’s information. I’d like to stay and shoot the breeze with you guys, but I’ve got some work to do on an old mansion. Max, will you have the permit this afternoon?” When a positive reply was given, he added, “Staple it near the front door; that’s under cover. I can have guys out tomorrow planning where to move dirt.” Everyone was hand shaking and delighted with the hour. After a quick trip to the county planner’s office and then back up the hill to place the permit, Max called Sean. “Yeah it’s been a crazy morning for me too. Have you had lunch? I can pick up a couple of Arby’s sandwiches. Would you like a shake with that?” They both laughed. “Yeah, come on up to the condo. When I left this morning there was already over a hundred thousand hits on the YouTube. I’m eager to see where we are now. Can you find the place? Good I’ll be there in about twenty minutes.” “That’s a half million hits in less than a day!” Sean bugled. “And there are over two hundred emails on Dottie’s email . Max, this is crazy good!” They were focused on a dedicated computer separate from Michael.

“Unless you’re the one who must read and answer all those emails. That’s more than a full time job.” They opened a few of the emails, most of which said, “Please send academic grant application.” But a couple were, “Send information on how we can acquire 3D technology.” One was even more scary. It simply said “Name your price.” “That’s what worries me,” Max said quietly. “That greed beast can short circuit our best plans. On the other hand, if we were offered fifty million dollars…” His cell phone rang. It was Sarah calling. “Hi sweetheart. What’s up?” He listened for a moment. “You know, I completely forgot. We’ve had a big-time distraction to mess me up today.” He listened again. “It’s an oak double door with stained glass? For how much? Well of course. Ask her to run it by John. If he likes it, he probably has a truck and strong help to move it. Yes, indeed.” There was another quiet listening. “Sean is here now. May I pick you up at your place at 4:30? You’re the best. I love you.” “Am I in the way?” Sean asked. “No way, Man. Sarah just reminded me that it’s New Year’s Eve. We need to make a hospital visit after an early supper on 23rd” He grinned sheepishly. “I think I over-loaded my head. You don’t even know the rest of the story.” He made his best Paul Harvey imitation. “Let’s just leave the rest of these emails for later. I think you have some very important decisions to make.” “What decisions?” Sean asked honestly. “Since Halloween, things have been happening at a crazy pace for me. The first of October I was out of work and by the first of November I had more wealth than I can even comprehend. Something like that can work for you too, pal. Every major city has Urban Responder FBI agents. They don’t wear suits, keep office hours in an uptown tower, and they don’t all have guys like us to help them. They just find bad guys and do something about it. I’ll bet, with Liz’s help, you could be attached to a team just like I am. Or,” he took a breath, “if I give your name to my supervisor, you will have a job in D.C. by tomorrow. Maybe you can keep your Fly Trap, and maybe it will be a springboard into the wild IT research and development world you were made for. Those kinds of choices. Or, maybe you will hang with Cyber Solutions and we’ll see where it takes us.” He furrowed his brow and said, “Today is a crucial decision day. In

fact, every day is.” They talked for an hour and a half. Among a number of topics, Max encouraged Sean to develop the Trap to detect hacker activity and other nefarious cyber activity. “That can be your winning ticket,” he told his friend. “I’ve never imagined going away from Portland,” Sean mused. “If it doesn’t work, can I come back to Cyber?” He asked playfully, but Max thought he detected a serious worry. “Listen Sean, just don’t accept their first offer. Turn it down flat, tell them it’s because you can’t leave your present job with Cyber. Even if they hang up, I’m sure they want you enough to sweeten the second offer. And of course you can come back.” Finally Sean said, “I wouldn’t be forced to accept the D.C. job. But I’ll never know what it is unless it’s offered, so call your boss and give him my number. Of all the possibilities, that sounds the most interesting to me.” Then he added, “As long as I can come back to Cyber.” He watched as Max made the call, and listened to the glowing description of talents Sean wasn’t completely convinced he possessed.

Second Hospital Visit

V isiting hours were almost over when they finally made their way down the fourth floor hallway. The hospital was very quiet. Sarah peeked in Liz’s room to make sure she was awake. Bret was there in a chair pulled beside the bed so he could hold her hand. They were quietly talking, so Max and Sarah gently ed them. “I knew you would be here” Liz said happily. “You promised you would, and to my knowledge you’ve never gone back on your word.” Her demeanor was more buoyant than Max had seen before. “You’re looking lots more perky. Good to see you coming along,” Max grinned and Bret nodded in agreement. Liz said, “I can’t a more restful time. Do you know,” she feigned a whisper, “they give drugs in here? I like them.” Her smile grew. “But not too much, I could get busted.” They were delighted in her attitude, and her chattiness. “Do you know what this big lug has been telling me?” she continued. “He wants to take me home with him. He says his place is bigger than my apartment. What do you think about that Max?” Apparently she didn’t last night’s conversation at all. “You don’t have anyone else in your place, Liz, and he could fix you coffee and toast.” “Yeah, but he is saying he could help me around, like I’m some kind of invalid. We walked around the halls this afternoon, and I did fine.” It was as if the more Liz spoke, the more her assertive self appeared. “I don’t need anyone’s help getting to the toilet or shower! He definitely doesn’t need to dress me!” Sarah reached over and took her hand gently. “Liz, he wants to make sure you don’t fall. You’re still pretty weak after all the stuff they are giving you. Wouldn’t it be better to have some strong arm to lean on than be back in here

with a broken leg or torn stitches?” Max glanced at her for making such an extreme suggestion. But it worked. A smiling Liz said, “He has been here with me every day. He is a fabulous partner.” Bret said, “The doctor said if she keeps doing a bit of walking and can have a bowel movement to make sure everything is working, she can go home Saturday. She’s ready for a change of scenery, and so am I.” Max leaned in even closer to Liz and said confidentially, “Liz, let Big Ugly take you home and take care of you. I need you to get back to work soon. I don’t have any s to work on.” They shared a big smile when she nodded her agreement, and said, “He’s not so ugly. In fact, he’s pretty cute, or I’m just getting used to him.” In a more tender voice Liz said, “Actually this has been a pretty interesting week that started at your place, Max. It had been a long time since I enjoyed company like you guys offered. Then at the door, he surprised me with a kiss that I thought about into the night.” She took hold of Bret’s hand. “I shouldn’t have liked it so much. That was a surprise. It showed me something about myself that I thought was impossible. I don’t want anyone jumping to conclusions here. But in spite of all the nasty stuff here, this has been a terrific week. He has been so much more than a partner; he has been a great friend.” A tiny tear punctuated her sentence. An intercom chime signaled the end of the visiting hours, so Max asked if she would like Sarah to pray another prayer. Hands were already hooking together. “Gracious and Glorious God,” Sarah’s soft voice was like a gentle song, “we are grateful for the miracle of your healing comfort, so we give you the praise; we give all glory for your goodness. We ask that you continue to touch Liz with the power of your wholeness and the depths of your understanding, that her life might be rich and full. Help her draw new strength from your goodness, and help her trust in Bret’s loving care. We look eagerly to the future you have planned and prepared for us in Jesus’ name. Amen.” All four had tears in their eyes as they murmured, “Amen.” In the car on the way home, Sarah said, “You didn’t warn me, and that was the first time I’ve prayed out loud in front of others.” Max was ready to apologize,

when she continued, “but that was such a rush! I felt such a connection of caring for Liz, and for Bret. What do you think is going to happen between them? Do you think they will become a couple?” “Well I can only hope. We are so happy together it makes me feel like their failed first attempts at love shouldn’t be their only shot at it.” Max was still thinking about the visit. “Don’t you ire his gentle care for her? He’s my hero!” Sarah hooked her hand under his arm, asking, “Would you like to come in and watch the fireworks? I think this is going to be a very happy New Year. I’ve got some hot chocolate, or a little bit of summer cooler left.” There was just enough wine for them both to have a weak summer cooler, which they sipped slowly as the topic of New Year’s resolutions was bantered. Finally, with only a few minutes left before the hour, Sarah pulled a sheet of paper out of a book lying on the table. “I underlined this,” she said. “It is the best quote I have from Pastor Eric. She read it slowly. “When you recall that this fondness and iration is a gift worth cherishing, there can be no limit to the depths of intimacy possible to you. Affection and iration are not limited!” “You know what I clearly from Eric?” he asked. Before she could answer, he said, “I his Stop, Look, and Listen rule.” Sarah protested that Eric hadn’t used those words with her. “Really?” Max answered. “They are real easy. That must be why I them. He told me to stop (he held up one finger) thinking you can read my mind; to look(two fingers) at only you when you are talking to me; and to listen (three fingers) for at least one compliment from you daily. He said if everyone would practice that, the divorce rate would be greatly reduced.” “Hummm,” Sarah smiled. “Stop, look, and listen, I can those too.” She held up her pinky finger, pledging, “Max, I resolve to that affection and iration are never optional to our marriage, and never limited.” Max gladly ed his finger with hers and said “I you in that resolve, and promise in this new year to stop, look, and listen.” He kissed her gently. But when the kiss might have ended, they lingered, and it became more intense. Finally, Sarah leaned away and said rather breathlessly, “Oh my, Max! Happy

New Year!” Outside they could hear horns honking and the noise of distant celebration.

Home and Garden

I t was a little after ten the next morning when Sarah called. “’Morning, my very best friend. Are you watching the Rose Parade?” Max was pretty sure she had a chore for him to do. She usually sugar coated those. “I’ve been trying to get the Home and Garden Channel in Vancouver,” she said tensely. “I know they are open today, because they keep putting me on hold. Three times!” Her voice was pleasant, but aggravated none the less. “How can I help, Sweetheart?” He was sincere. “You can use your FBI voice to convince them that time is running out for them to document the big renovation. I’ve been trying since Wednesday.” Max chuckled, “If they won’t listen to someone as cute as you, what chance do I have? Maybe I should get Bret.” “No way,” she said getting into the mood of the moment. “You are tons intimidating when you want to be. Just give them a growl.” She gave him the B.C. number. There was an answer on the third ring. A voice answered saying, “Can you hold, please?” Max immediately said quite loudly, “No! I’ve been doing that all week. This is your last chance to get a story your audience will clamber to watch!” There was a long pause and a man’s voice asked, “What can we do for you?” “I have a two million dollar reno on a hundred year old mansion beginning in Portland Oregon next Monday. We’ve been trying to get through to you since Tuesday.” He added a day for flavor. “If your camera crew is interested in documenting the before and after, they have only tomorrow now to get the before.” He was fairly certain he had said enough to interest them, if they would be interested at all.

“You say you are in Portland?” “That’s correct. The project is the Landis mansion, built in 1911. It’s on adjacent property to the Pittock mansion, which even you can Google.” The phone was silent for a moment. “Can you give me some information. I’ll get back to you.” Max said a bit cautiously, “O.K. but I’m serious, the renovation tear down begins Monday.” He gave as much information as they might need to get back to him. Twenty minutes later his phone rang. “Hello, Mr. Wall? I’m Randy Fisher, Director of Home and Garden. Do I understand you are doing a restoration of a hundred year old mansion?” “Thank you for calling back,” Max said brightly. “I wasn’t sure you folks would be interested. But this is not a restoration. We are maintaining the formal rooms, but the rest of the house is getting a complete renovation, eight bedrooms and five and a half baths.” “Is the work being professionally done or are you doing it yourself?” “Columbia Construction is doing the basement, roof and utilities; Stephenson Construction is doing the main part of the building. I’m not a carpenter.” “And you said it’s going to be a two million dollar project?” “That’s correct, unless we run into some complicating surprises. It is a hundred year old building after all.” “Max,” the director was becoming personal, “without seeing the project, I can’t make a commitment for the Channel. But I would very much like to have our camera crew capture it in its present condition. May we have access to it tomorrow, if we fly a couple folks down? I realize it’s Sunday, and it’s our fault that we are in this time crunch.” “Of course, Randy,” Max replied as friendly. “They can call me as soon as they arrive at the airport, and I can meet them at the house. It’s about a twenty minute taxi ride from there. I can drive them back to catch their flight home. The

mansion’s address is 3100 Greenbrier Terrace Place. It is right above downtown Portland, I’ll meet them there.” As it turned out, the crew had a still camera photographer with them as well.

Max offers to Quit

M onday was a quiet day, in fact boring! Max missed Sarah’s voice and her peppy conversations. He emailed her to tell her that, and she replied immediately that she also was suffering the Monday Blues without him. He called Bret to see how everything was going and was assured they were competently managing Liz’s recovery. Max had nothing to do but peruse the hundreds of George Fox emails, which even contained requests for donation information. He was finally desperate enough to go up to the old house to see what progress had taken place. He was bored! He was just heading for the door when Michael pinged an email from his supervisor, requesting a phone call. When he called the number, a pleasant female voice said, “Good morning Max, Mr. Dawson will be right with you.” “Hey Max,” a deep voice greeted him, “Thanks for the quick response. Listen I haven’t much time before a security meeting. I’ve been interviewing Sean this weekend. He’s a great prospect; and he tells me you have a special malware.” A long silence was finally broken by Max saying, “So much for personal confidentiality.” A shorter pause, then Max said, “Yes, I have developed an Override command to help in the seizures. It removes any history of my presence in their software or hardware.” His voice was mildly irritated. An even longer silence followed before Max said, “Sean needs the job. I can understand how you could pressure him. But I don’t need this job as much as he does. If my continuation with the FBI is dependent on you getting the Vampire software, please accept this as my resignation.” Instead of the outburst he expected, Max heard a soft chuckle. “Sean said that would be your response. He is a terrific friend. But pal, we don’t have the luxury of civilities. I need the Cannibal!” Max almost flinched; he even knew the name of that too. “Max, you are a great asset to us. I’m not interested in acquiring your secret development.” His supervisor spoke more directly, “We don’t have time for personal feelings when we are dealing with domestic security. Our job is to do it better than anyone else can. Don’t hold it against Sean. I had to pry it out of him. I reminded him that we are dealing with national security. Now it’s your

turn. I need that malware.” That was blunt! There followed a silence as Max listened to his supervisor. He asked for verification, saying, “You want me to load it and send it back to you right now? It will do a whole mess of trouble.” He listened and finally said that he understood. “It’ll be right there. Good luck.” He loaded the Cannibal onto the front of the email entitled “ATENTION!” and returned it to the sender’s IP address, at the FBI center. The instant that email is opened, he thought to himself, “there will be a lot of equipment destroyed.” “O.K. I just sent it.” “Max, I am expanding your role with the agency. Someone is about to be revealed as a counter agent. They are about to have a bad surprise. May I ask you for just a bit more service?” Without waiting for agreement, he said, “I do want to use it also on a wider scale right now. You know that the Koreans hacked into Sony Picture’s computers and are involved in some bold extortion threats. What I want you to do is sneak into Sony, Metro, and Disney and plant some traps. Name the file ‘Jennifer’s private photos.’ Got that? Put enough jiggles for a three minute fuse on it. I personally will warn them not to open that file. When any hacker will open it, however, I want them to lose the use of their computer and all the information that’s on it! If you do that for us, I’ll make sure Liz has some plump seizures for you. Are we still friends?” Sheepishly Max replied, “Yes Mr. Dawson. I apologize for jumping to conclusions. I’ll get right on baiting the traps.” “Good! Double-Oh-Seven is the name of my computer.” He softly added, “Don’t you dare breathe that to anyone else. She has already sent you addresses and s for the film studios. We may even tag some amateur hacker by surprise in this. I’ll let you know. I’ve got a meeting.” The line went dead. Max sat there with the cell phone in his hand wondering if he had just been blind-sided again, or if his resume with the agency had just grown. He felt like the former, but was pretty sure it was the latter. He would know soon enough what that meant. Thanks to Sports Illustrated, it only took him about ten minutes to find enough tantalizing female swim suit poses to cover the trigger. It was a file mine, waiting to explode. Max installed “Jennifer’s private photos”, with Cannibal discretely tucked in, into the files of the three studio websites, and then used Vampire to remove any telltale trace of Michael. It would take seven months for

the identity of the internet protector to get out, but Cyber Solution’s new future was planted. It was mid morning when Max finally arrived at the house site. He wasn’t sure what he expected, but there was a bit of a letdown when he found no one there. When he walked around the back, however, he noticed the small yellow plastic flags. He assumed they marked the surveyed boundary of the driveway and parking area, because it was substantial. He also noticed that most of the Fir trees had orange spray paint on them. He hoped that marked them for removal. The backyard would be super impressive. A “yoo hoo” caught his attention. Sarah was jogging toward him. Now his morning was no longer boring! “Hi! I’m glad I caught you,” she said in greeting. She punctuated it with a sweet kiss. “John came by my office to pick up another check for the planning office. They had a special meeting, and approved the removal of forty trees. He apparently convinced someone that the trees should be removed before the driveway and utilities were installed. The surveyor guy was here first, and I think the log truck will be up here in the morning for all those trees, and another to remove the stumps. John said folks wanted this fixed up. His influence is going to make this pretty easy for us, I think. It’s full speed ahead.” Her smile was bright even on an overcast day. “Do you want to walk through it again, or have an early lunch at Appleby’s?” Max asked with a smile. Whichever she chose would be fine with him. As it turned out she went for the lunch which gave him a chance to tell her about the phone conversation with his supervisor, Mr. Dawson. Her only comment was, “It sounds like your job and mine are similar. They started out pretty basic and then got complicated.” But she kept that happy smile going. Tuesday was a quiet day. Max cleaned the condo, did laundry, and went grocery shopping and called Sarah four times. Wednesday was a bit better; Mr. Dawson sent nine assignments for Michael, six of them plump seizures. He only called Sarah twice. Well, both days they talked after supper.

On Thursday the Home and Garden folks returned. They wanted some of the teardown footage. In fact, they stayed at the Resident’s Inn Marriot, so they could get some of the wall removal in the kitchen, and the old furnace from the basement. Only scattered showers were forecast for the weekend, so Terry got his roofing crew to strip off the old shakes on Friday; there were only two boards that had to be replaced. They then applied the new anodized green aluminum shakes on Saturday, which kept the film crew in Portland for another day.

Clarifying worship

S unday was a new experience in worship for Max and Sarah. Mountaintop featured a marriage emphasis service entitled “Hope for Your Home.” It was planned in response to a myriad of questions after one of the pastors announced that his wife had moved back home with their daughter, and a divorce was pending. Pastor Scott had received a mound of emails asking about the church’s stance on divorce, which opened Pandora’s flood gates on a host of other domestic social issue questions. The pastor had agreed to try to answer some of the questions by means of a fresh look at the Ten Commandments. The sanctuary was filled to overflowing, obviously in expectation. Songs and prayers appropriate to the topic began the hour. The choir sang, and to a slow drum cadence the first 17 verses of Exodus 20 were read, the Ten Commandments. “It has been a busy two weeks for our emails,” the pastor began his sermon. “The comments range from, ‘Pastor, where can I find help for my family? I believe in the family, but so often I feel discouraged, frustrated, and separated from those who are supposed to be closest to me.’ ‘Pastor, what should I do when the kids have left home, and my spouse and I have drifted apart? Would you please address the quiet desperation that has filled this house.’ Some of the emails were more direct. ‘Pastor, I’m divorced and want to remarry. Will you perform the wedding ceremony? What do you teach about divorce?’ Some of the emails were blunt and to the point. ‘Pastor, my boyfriend and I have been living together for two years, and I’m pregnant. Can we be married in the church, and can our baby be baptized there?’ Perhaps the most painful question asked is, ‘What is your stand on abortion, or premarital sex?’ ‘Where can we find some trustworthy lessons about the family in today’s chaotic world?’ “Now the coward within me is hesitant to preach on this topic, for the diversity of our congregation and the sensitivity of the subject is bound to offend many of you. However, the urgency of the time we live in and the fact that Mountaintop cares deeply for your family and its future, requires us to hear what God is saying to us this morning. It is evident by your questions that there is an enormous concern and deep pain in our family life. Reading between the lines I hear you saying, ‘Our families are not what they should be, not what we want

them to be. Still we have not given up. We believe there is spiritual help and guidance.’ “First I want to assure you that the threat to the family is real. Each year there is one divorce for every two marriages. Half of the applications for a marriage license indicate that the couple is already sharing the same address, and one in six children born is conceived out of wedlock. Each year a million teenagers run away from home, and only half of them ever return. The American home is one of the most violent places on earth. Old fashioned virtues are ridiculed and laughed at. We have a right to be concerned. There is a spreading pathology in our midst; the threat to our home is real. “Over against that ominous threat, which hangs like a dark storm cloud on the horizon, I want to announce some good news. It is that God cares about the family. We see that concern in the growth of Jesus in a family setting. When God designed the rescue mission to earth, Jesus was not raised in a Greek temple, a Roman court, an Egyptian library, an Essene monastery, or a Jewish synagogue. He grew up in a real home. He spent his first thirty years in a home setting. His responsibility as the oldest son in the family was tremendously important to him, right to the hour of his death. God cares about the quality of your family life. God wants it to improve. God’s resources are available. He wants us to know there is help for your family. Help comes through God’s ministry of guidance, through his ministry of forgiveness, and through his ministry of power and hope. “When we begin talking about God’s ministry of guidance and discipline, many of us get nervous and ill at ease. We have this strange idea that we can run the most personal and intimate of all institutions with no rules and few responsibilities - only sentiment and emotion. Last week you may recall that we talked about the incredibly immature concept of love that is prevalent in our culture. In most areas of life we are fairly sensible. On our roads, in our schools, whether we are working or playing, we know that rules make it possible for us to function together. Would you play golf with someone who could tee up on every shot, or lift the ball out of any hazard? I wouldn’t either. We know that we must have rules in every other area of life except the one that really matters most. Here we think we can throw out the rule book and just follow the sentiment and emotion of the moment. “I don’t want to talk about going back to the Ten Commandments. I would rather talk about going forward to them. They are not behind us as some quaint relic.

They are before us as a protection from the chaos and storm that threatens us. There is a positive liberating ministry in God’s guidelines. I want us to experience the power of the ten commandments. Are you ready? “The first four establish the foundation and essential centrality of the nature of God. ‘No other gods before me!’ They talk about getting things right at the center right away. When God is first, there is beautiful unity in the family. Jesus said that the first and greatest commandment is, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ (Matthew 22:37) That puts the hub at the center of the wheel. If the hub is not in the center, everything flies apart. “In a world where all the signposts have been knocked down and the price tags have been reversed, where we really are threatened by chaos and confusion, it is wonderful to know that God gives his grace through his guidelines and love. We have these reference points that neither change nor grow old. “Let’s go forward to the basics. ‘Honor your father and your mother…’ This is commandment number five, and the first commandment with a promise. To honor means to treat with respect, to hold in high regard, to value, to affirm, and to hold in high esteem. The word appears in the opening paragraph of the wedding ceremony, ‘Bill will you have Betty to be your wedded wife. Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her in sickness and in health? Will you forsake all others, and keep her for as long as you both shall live?’ A positive commitment to honor is necessary for the ceremony to proceed. Can you imagine someone answering, ‘Well….’ or, ‘I’ll try,’ or ‘Let me think about that.’ We’d stop the ceremony right there. “Do you want to know something that will bring an immediate improvement to the quality of your home life? It is the simplest rule of medicine which says, ‘Do no harm!’ Stop hurting each other and begin to treat each other with honor and dignity. There is a simple verse of the New Testament that I want you to write down and . It’s found in Romans 12:10; …. ‘outdo one another in showing honor.’ If you enjoy some competition in your home, here it is! ‘Outdo one another in showing honor!’ Husbands and wives, honor each other! Children, honor your parents! Brothers and sisters, honor each other! To give honor is a liberating expression of gratitude to God for the beautiful people he has given us. The more we practice honoring a person, the more we tend to see the good quality and strong points we have missed. We begin to focus on the

person’s positive side instead of always focusing on the false and negative. “This past week I was privileged to be invited to a birthday party. A member of our church was celebrating her mother’s 80th in Cascade Heights Retirement Center. The mom had been widowed for three years and recently moved into the more safe and manageable residence. Special music and cake with ice cream were offered to all the other folks living there. It was an opportunity to honor this new resident. She was seated at a place of honor as they sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to her. She began to stare at the handsome man who was seated just across the table from her. He smiled and she smiled back, big time. She knew he just lived down the hall from her, and she couldn’t stop staring. Finally she said, ’I hope you will forgive me. I don’t mean to be rude, but you look exactly like my second husband.’ The lady sitting next to her asked, ‘Honey, how many times have you been married?’ With a dazzling smile the lady answered with a twinkle in her eye, ‘Oh just once, dear.’ When you receive a little honor, you begin to consider some new possibilities. We never help people by dishonoring them. Honor the of your family – particularly your father and your mother, and your spouse. “The sixth commandment is ‘You shall not kill.’ Its importance is obvious isn’t it? The family is to be life-affirming, life-enabling, and life-protecting. Now there are a host of situations addressed by this commandment, from war, to street violence, to abusive treatment in our homes, even end of life considerations. But the one you asked most about was abortion, the silent crisis. Yes, it is legal, yet tragic, and if we continue to try to teach about family planning the numbers will continue to be reduced. A number of you have asked where the church stands and where I personally stand on the question. There are many things that we just do not know about the beginning of human existence. But we do know that sincere Christians differ vigorously on this question. This is one of the areas where we want to put a limit on our pluralism and diversity. My personal position is one of opposition to abortion. I don’t like it. If the fetus is not yet a human being, it certainly is the beginning of one. The concept of abortion as a birth control is abhorrent to me, as is the reckless or irresponsible procreation in the first place. The counterpoint to the discussion, however, is that we never have the full dynamics of what’s going on in the mind of the woman who must struggle with such an incredibly personal decision. Only she knows her physical and emotional state. Our church’s position is that it is a horrific decision, but one that she and she alone has the right to make.

“I Jesus’ comment upon the sixth commandment. He said, ’You have heard that it was said to the men of old, ‘You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment!’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment, whoever insults his brother shall be liable to the council, and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be liable to the hell of fire,’ (Matthew 5:21-23) I know that we would like for life to have simple issues, all sanitized and clean. But it is rarely all black and white; sometime there are shades of gray. There are times when we do not have ideal choices. Then the agonizing decisions are about the lesser evil. We should affirm and pray for each other. Judgment is God’s work and his responsibility. “You also asked many questions about divorce, which is pretty much the same issue. I do not favor divorce. It is clear that Jesus did not favor divorce. Every divorce is a death. Every divorced person knows that something beautiful has died. I have heard the definition of divorce as the high price children pay for their folk’s inability to work it out. Divorce hurts, the couple, the family, and the community. Once again, however, I can find no interpretation of Scripture that excludes divorced persons from our church or from the communion table. There are times when divorce is the lesser evil as well. It is pretty clear to me that Jesus welcomed the woman at the well, who had been married and divorced five times, just as gladly as he welcomes you or me. Divorced persons have a claim upon the forgiveness of God in Jesus. ‘You shall not kill,’ is a commandment for today’s family. We are to be life-affirmers, life-enablers, life-encouragers! “The seventh commandment is ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ which strikes right at the heart of the sickness of the modern home. Infidelity is incredibly destructive. The sexual relationship is a sacred exclusive trust. It is not my body to do with as I wish. Sex is not a toy. I do not exist for the gratification of my physical pleasure. Paul wrote to Corinth, that ancient center of immorality, ‘Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. (1 Cor. 6:19 – 20) “It doesn’t matter how many people you know are committing adultery; it still doesn’t make it right. It doesn’t matter how much television, movies, magazines, or books laugh at the idea of fidelity and integrity; it is still the only standard that really works. There is something grossly twisted in the thought that the only good sex is extramarital. I personally believe that the practice of fidelity begins before marriage in premarital chastity. Yes, I realize the idea is regarded as old-

fashioned, but there is still something beautiful about the person whose life is disciplined and whose marriage is held in the highest honor. Healthy strong families and sexual promiscuity do not go together. All of which brings up the issue of the language and entertainment content in our home, because Jesus also had something very important to say about that. ‘You have heard that it was said, You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that every one who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.’(Matthew 5:28) Infidelity, actual or spiritual, is a corrosive agent in the family, eating away that which is innocent and pure, staining that which cannot be replaced. “The eighth commandment is a trailer that follows in the shadow of adultery. ‘You shall not covet.’ To take this commandment seriously is a beautiful thing because it releases us from the dreadful competitiveness of our materialistic world by telling us not to get all worried about our neighbor’s house, or car, or boat, or wife, or kids, or anything else that is our neighbor’s. If we took this commandment seriously, we would be set free from the mad materialistic scramble, and be able to focus our attention on the beautiful people in our own home. The challenge is that every commercial we see on TV, or every ad we see in a magazine tries to break down our resolve. Just the other day we listened to Paul and Holly report on their mission trip to Ireland, and I began to think, ‘I would love to make a trip like that, it would be good for my ministry.’ The word is clear: ‘You shall not covet!’ But I did just a bit anyway. “Still, the law only makes us realize that we have fallen short. Before God’s commandments we all stand on the same ground. Paul wrote to the Romans, ‘All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.’ Or again, ‘There is none righteous, no not one.’ Only the most stubborn of us would say, ‘In my family life I am utterly without sin.’ It’s just not true! And it is at this point of realization of our sin and failure that God has a most amazing and wonderful gift for you and your family. It is the gift of his forgiveness and grace for you. That is so important. It is so easy for us to hold onto our guilt and then project it onto others and blame them. Will you receive the grace of God, the love of God, freely and unconditionally offered through Christ’s cross? Receive this gift and you will be a grace-filled person. You will be a forgiving and accepting person. You will be God’s point of comion, of authentic caring in your family. “In a few moments you will be coming forward to share the Holy Communion. Yes, all are welcomed. This is the sign Jesus gave us of God’s grace, that God’s grace is personal. Kneel a sinner, and arise forgiven; kneel in weakness, and

arise in new power and strength; kneel in need, and arise with grace sufficient. You are God’s point of grace and forgiveness in some situation. If you block that grace, it is blocked in your life. Some of us have come into church today with a great deal of hurt and bitterness. Yes, you have been mistreated and cheated. There is no doubt about it. Still, as we hold onto that bitterness, we only hurt and poison ourselves. Don’t go out of here this morning with any bitterness left in your heart. Let God’s forgiveness release in you the forgiveness and acceptance of every other person. As you forgive and receive forgiveness, you become a point of releasing the forgiveness to flow in others in your family. The whole quality of your family life can be transformed by this incredible power of forgiveness! It is Jesus Christ who is speaking to you today. He says, ‘Mothers, your sins are forgiven!’ - ‘Fathers, your sins are forgiven!’ – ‘Young people, your sins are forgiven’ – ‘Children, your sins are forgiven! – ‘Grandparents, your sins are forgiven!’ – ‘Divorced persons, your sins are forgiven!’ – ‘Unmarried persons, your sins are forgiven!’ God has hope for you. Why wallow in guilt, trying to frantically justify yourself? Justification before God is the free gift that is offered through faith. God has hope for your family. It is his forgiveness and grace. “Grace Noel Crowell is correct when she says: ‘So long as there are homes where fires burn and there is bread; So long as there are homes where lamps are lit and prayers are said; Although people falter through the dark and nations grope; With God himself back of those little homes, we still have hope!’

“Isn’t that wonderful? We still have hope! “Now I want to conclude with the verse that was our scripture lesson a while ago, ‘May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.’ Think of that! ‘So that, … by the power of the Holy Spirit, you may abound in hope!” Pastor Scott bowed and led them in prayer.

On their way out of the church, they stopped at the Nuptials Dinner for next Wednesday evening. A sizable gathering of folks they had met a time or two welcomed them, and were eager to hear about their wedding plans. Max rescued her by asking if he could share an Appleby’s lunch on the way up to check on construction progress. As they were leaving the parking lot, Sarah said quietly, “Thank you for getting me out of there. I’m feeling that serious rush I experienced at Easter so long ago with you and dad Dalton. I’m not taking anything away from our important wedding. This just seems more immediate. Do you know what I mean?” “Is it a good sort of feeling, or…” he asked for more information. Sarah replied gently, “It is way good. It’s much too special to be distracted by idle wedding chatter. I’m not sure if I am so engaged with the content of what Pastor Scott said, although that was extremely good, or whether it is the manner in which he presented it. I was so focused on his sermon I had to remind myself to breathe. There was a definite spiritual and emotional rush.” She smiled warmly. “I feel it very deeply.” “He’s a fantastic speaker” Max agreed. “I’m always surprised when the sermon is suddenly over.” “Exactly!” Sarah responded brightly. “I wanted to hear more, like the next ten commandments.” She giggled at her own humor. “Max I love to talk with you. You listen to me and always have a positive answer.” She reached over and rested her hand on his shoulder. “I’ve wanted to tell you about a cat fight I’m having at the office.” Max looked over at her raising his eyebrows suggesting that he was in fact listening. “You probably know that Allison has been my office manager during the cherry season, when I’m in the orchard. She is competent as the dickens and a marvelous ant. Dory, on the other hand, has only minimum training, but maximum drive. A couple days ago Dory came into my office and closed the door. She wanted me to know about an apparent RESPA omission she had found in one of Allison’s files, and thought I should do something about the violation before the office gets into legal trouble.” “My goodness,” Max said with a side look to see if her face showed worry. “I don’t know what that is, but could you actually get into trouble?” “No, at worst we could get a warning and be directed to make a correction. I’m

pretty sure that real estate document is not even required in the file. What bothers me more is the sneaky way Dory approached me. I feel like this is more back-stabbing than responsible ing. It’s not enough to make a big deal over, but at the same time it’s too much to ignore.” “Was she supposed to be checking in Allison’s files?” Max asked. “No, that’s a mystery to me. I’m the only one who should be quality checking any of their work.” “It’s a Dory dilemma,” Max said lightly. “Exactly.” Her hand moved up to ruffle his hair. “See what I mean? You listened and helped me! Thank you.” Max smiled smugly, knowing that he had listened, but had been careful not to make suggestions in an area he knew so little about. He was glad this conversation had come out just right.

Jeff

W hen they finally arrived at the house, Max recognized the Columbia Construction pickup parked at the curb, and he could hear a diesel engine coming from the back of the building. He and Sarah skipped around to see what was going on. They found Terry Cobb supervising the huge area behind the house which was already graded for a turn-around driveway and parking. It was an impressive size and shape. Just now it was a mass of dirt. “Hey Max,” the contractor greeted them. “I’m glad you’re here. Come and meet my son. I think he can be a special help to you.” The diesel engine was chugging to a stop, as John waved the driver to come meet them, saying, “Hey Jeff come and meet the boss.” A muscular man just a bit older than Max, but with unusual tattoos on his hands, neck and shaved head, stepped off the caterpillar. He had a powerful grip when he shook Max’s hand, and a very gentle shake of Sarah’s. He was having trouble looking anywhere but into her eyes. After introductions, Terry said, “Jeff does most of my dirt work. We felt it necessary to get these stumps out before anything else happens. He has his own landscaping business. I’m thinking that this is going to be a knockout reno that really needs landscaping to finish it off. It will be spectacular inside. How would you like it to be sensational outside?” His wide smile conveyed only good will. “I’d like that a lot,” Max answered. “And I’m glad Sarah is here to lend her thoughts too. I’m not much of an arborist. But that might be the frosting for the folks from Vancouver. Home and Garden shot four days of the before conditions and early demolition. They will be back by the first of the month to get framing footage. I’d like the after shots to be dramatically improved over the before. I’m way open for Jeff’s suggestions.” “Do you want mostly lawn, with plants around the perimeter?” the young man asked, warming to the project. “I suppose an irrigating system will be necessary.” “When Sarah was a little girl, her backyard had Camellias,” Max began. “It would be great to have the back of the property lined with those, lots of them

that bloom in different seasons, maybe all year long. Since we have a lot of space, I’m not much for a huge lawn to mow, but it would be cool to have some prominent rock formations with alpine evergreens. My granddad had a big Dogwood that was spectacular in the spring. Something like that could take up some of the back space. Nothing should be in the way of the windows. Next to the house I think shrubs should be low growing, maybe Rhodies and Azaleas. And yeah, Jeff, I’m sure it should have an irrigation system, but no water features. They require too much attention.” Looking at Sarah, he asked, “Sweetie, do you have a preference of color, or more suggestions for Jeff?” He was already looking at her, now Jeff enjoyed her returned gaze. “I think pink to purple flowers are gorgeous,” she answered. “We also had a white Rhodie with a purple center that was spectacular. I think a couple weeping cherries by the front walk would look classy. I’m pretty sure that low-maintenance will be the most important consideration. We are not gardeners.” Max quickly added, “Not gardeners, but she owns a hundred acre cherry orchard.” Jeff said quietly, “That’s a dream come true.” Sarah was enjoying the attention of the landscaper, but she said, “My orchard manager can get me a pretty good price on trees. If you can draw out a plan and make a list of plants we would need, I can get a bid.” “You bet I will,” Jeff replied, getting his attention back on the job at hand. The mention of an orchard manager seemed to bring him back into focus. “But for a job this size, we’ll get them wholesale. I doubt if anyone could match the quality or price.” When he saw Sarah’s slight nod and smile he understood that she also had wholesale availability. “Can I have a couple days to do that?” He wasn’t the only dog in the hunt. Max was also thinking ahead. “I’m guessing that the delivery of truckloads of rock should also happen before paving or pipes go in. The sooner the better. When we approve the concept drawings, we’ll increase the budget to include that work. Terry, can you manage the landscaping as part of your responsibility? That way Sarah is not paying subs.” All four of them understood that Max wanted attention on the job only. This truly was becoming the premier restoration in Portland.

An expanded job title

M ax invited Sarah to help him plow through the George Fox requests. The list was now over a thousand emails and still growing. He tried to divide them into two files; one, the requests for a student application, and the other for technology information. She was happy to help, and was eager to see the YouTube demonstration. “Oh wow, Max!” she exclaimed. “That is amazing 3D! No wonder you are being bombarded. May I see it again?” His wide smile indicated he needed no greater praise. Max booted Michael, to check emails there as well. A familiar one requested him to Mr. Dawson ASAP. Sarah held that half smile that showed both her interest and iration as he tapped the phone numbers on his cell phone and put it on speaker phone. On the first ring, that pleasant female voice said, “Good evening Max, Mr. Dawson will be right with you.” “Hey, Max,” the deep voice said happily, “Thanks for getting back to me so quickly, and on Sunday evening. I knew I could count on you. Have you heard the news?” Before Max could ask for more of the question, his supervisor said, “There have been widespread computer outages in both China and Korea. They are blaming us for their equipment failures, but have no idea what happened. The Cannibal is a bitch! It worked so much better than I had even hoped. It took out blocks of government servers! Their programs have suffered a serious setback.’ The supervisor surprised Max by asking, “Max do you have a dedicated computer other than Michael?” “Yes, I have two. One is dedicated to Cyber Solutions, which we have used for Cannibal; and the other is used for our 3D application and student requests,” Max replied. “Good,” Mr. Dawson continued. “I wouldn’t want any of this to be on Michael. Now I want to offer you a fulltime job. I can already hear you saying you have one. This is only full-time pay with benefits. I want you to place mines in at least a thousand of our government and military computers. I’d like the file to simply

be titled “Secret,” and be filled with weather predictions for central Asia, and Korea or whatever might look important. Tuck in the Cannibal for whoever might be interested in our stuff. I’ll give you the addresses and s. The salary is $10K a month with full benefits. What do you say, Max. Can I count on you?” There was a lengthy pause before Max said, “You know Mr. Dawson, I had a fancy offer flashed before my eyes that dazzled me not long ago. Crenshaw just about cost me my life. This feels a lot like it, so I’m going to , big time.” He didn’t say anything more, just listened. Softly he heard, “I’m sorry I haven’t earned your trust yet Max. And I’m even sorrier that you don’t realize how urgent these times are. We need your service. We have hackers trying to get into our computers every damned day. Your program seems to be something that could slow them down a bit. I frankly don’t know what to do to win your trust. Would it help if Sean talked with you, or Liz?” Without waiting for an answer, he said finally, “They’ll call you in the morning.” The line went dead. “Goodness,” Sarah whispered. “That felt like a very serious conversation, brief and to the point. Was he angry with you? He certainly convinced me. The automated voice of his computer sounds very genuine, don’t you think?” “I think Mr. Dawson is not accustomed to have people say ‘No’ to him,” Max said with a grin. “But it won’t surprise me if both Sean and Liz do call me first thing in the morning.” They spent the rest of the afternoon looking at student request emails.

His phone rang at 6:00 a.m. promptly. “Good morning, Max.” Sean’s voice was bright. He was rolling Max out of bed for once. “It’s nine o’clock here in my lab. Please forgive me for calling so early.” His voice was about to break with laughter, “But you asked for it. Why did you have to get in Dawson’s face like that? He told me to roust you out and convince you that the job offer is no scam. Whatever you did for him had him walking on the clouds. It was like he personally had put one over on both the Chinese and the Koreans. I wish I could make him that happy. Maybe if I can convince you to take the job…” his voice trailed away.

“Hey Max, I just figured it out. You told me to turn down the first offer and he’d come back with a sweeter one. You’re just working him, aren’t you? Wow, what stones!” Max was thinking that Sean had been drinking too much coffee this morning. “Listen,” Sean said a bit louder, “I’m getting training here in D.C. until the first of May. I can vouch that this is the real deal, pal. He really wants you to work for the government. Hey, how’s the YouTube count coming along?” Finally Max could get a word in. “We had over five million the last time I checked, and George Fox is rocking along too. Tell me about your job, buddy.” “It’s heaven, man. They have me staying at a Residence Inn a short bus ride away. All day long I get to be with genius-type people who speak code and programming. They are helping me modify the Fly Trap to identify hackers. I love it! Now, will you do it? Will you take the job? I can’t stand the suspense.” Max grinned. “I’ve got my old computer dedicated to George Fox stuff. Send me your information at my old address, and we can communicate that way, but don’t open the file named ‘Trust .’ That one is a ‘file mine’ primed and loaded. I also put a mine in Cyber Solutions with a file name ‘3D.’ If someone manages to get past the firewalls they may get a nasty surprise.” After just a moment, he added, “I’m glad for you Pal. Just that is the big time, and they play rough. Keep your head down and your eyes open.” Liz called at 8:05, and conveyed the same message, after they had briefly shared that her convalescence was progressing wonderfully. At 8:10, Michael pinged an email from Mr. Dawson. “Good morning Max. Thanks for getting right back to me. Sean has explained that it was not a lack of trust on your part. You told him to turn down the first offer.” His voice almost broke into a chuckle. “He didn’t do it, but you are a squirrely son of a gun. You were just squeezing me a little. It would have worked for Sean, and it did work for you. The package deal is now for a grade S13; you’ll receive $12 thousand monthly and full benefits, including retirement, same as Sean. “By the way, thanks for taking such good care of Liz and Bret. They are special people to me and I think you have been doing a wonderful thing. Now Max, can I send you the list, and can we get this thing going. My people will

all of them to warn them not to open the ‘Secret’ file. Can you get it done this week?” “I believe I can get it done today, Mr. Dawson. Thank you for your confidence in me. May I ask you a question? When I call this number, am I speaking with Double Oh Seven? I really like her voice.” Now there was a genuine chuckle. “Careful Max. Darn few folks know her name or model. I’d hate to have Bret come down hard on you.” The line went dead, and Max laughed out loud. He had to call Sarah to tell her the latest news. Max took a clean disk and created a file, “Secret.” He found a dozen pages of maps and forecast statistics from the weather channel that he could copy, then he loaded Cannibal into it. Using Michael, he could address the email using the , since the Vampire was already installed, it was easy to get in, then switch the disc to insert the file with the Cannibal, and to get back out without a trace. He could do that in less than fifteen seconds. The job would be finished today for sure without any risk to his big computer. Tuesday was a busy day. Michael received eighteen seizure assignments, all of which were sizeable, and understood by Max as bonus for his work yesterday. By the time he had finished the list, he was staggered by the accumulated reward total. He would wait until the end of the month when his direct deposit would be a more reliable tally, but it was still awesome! It was nearly 3 p. m. before he could get over to the house to look at the proposal for landscaping. Jeff had an eye for design that was obvious and pleasant. Max took the plan to Sarah’s office to show her, and get her signature. She also photocopied the list and costs of the trees. Wednesday was a discovery day. Max searched the national rs list, seeking some large s. He found the agencies that represented Jaguar automobiles, Shane, the Diamond company, and Trinchero Winery. An idea was beginning to form. By noon Sarah had called twice to remind him that this was the evening for a Lasagna supper at the church with the spring nuptial folks. More than two dozen couples were signed up to attend. She was eager to be with Max, of course, but Sarah was also looking forward to hear Dr. Rita Rogers, a University of Phoenix graduate, speak on keeping the coals of romance fanned.

Dr. Rita Rogers

A s the desserts were being served, Dr. Rogers asked how many of those in attendance were planning a traditional ceremony here in the church or some other chapel. At least three quarters of the folks raised their hands. She asked how many were planning some unique dinner venue. Six raised their hands. She inquired about those who were going to destination locations that might be sunny and outdoors. Ten more raised their hands. “Who have I missed?” Dr. Rita asked. Sarah and Max raised their hands. “Where will your wedding take place?” she asked brightly. “In the barn at my cherry orchard,” Sarah said. “Tell us why you have chosen a barn,” Dr. Rogers asked with a quizzical grin, “And who made that choice?” Sarah looked at Max, who encouraged her to answer. “I think he suggested it first,” Sarah said in a happy voice. “But I was thrilled that he would agree to it.” Playfully, Dr. Rita said, “Oh, there must be much more to that story. A barn seems an incongruous choice. What makes it such a happy selection for you?” Sarah answered just as playfully. “Have you ever been inside a one hundred acre bouquet? When the cherry trees are in full bloom there is not a more beautiful place on the planet! And the barn has room enough for all of our friends and the seasonal harvesters who have come to trust us. If you will mark April 16th on your calendars, you all are cordially invited. I’ll provide driving instruction to my orchard in the Eola Hills.” It was more answer than Dr. Rita expected, but gladly received.” She said “I, plus one, will be there for sure. I am curious what the most beautiful place on the planet might look like. Perhaps I should get to the program planned

for you, however. It begins with some YouTube clips of wedding anomalies.” The room lights dimmed and the projector flashed images on the screen. A groom was weeping so loudly that his vows were almost lost. Another showed a bride so nervous she finally slumped unconscious into the pastor’s arms. “This one is called the laughing bride. She gets so hysterical it always cracks me up,” Dr. Rita said. In only a moment the entire crowd was laughing along. The final scene was of cutting the wedding cake, when the groom, acting like an adolescent, smeared his bride’s face with a handful of frosting. She retaliated by rubbing her handful of frosting down the crotch of his tux. “I predict a very brief marriage for them,” Dr. Ruth said softly. “I’m a romantic by nature,” she said getting into her topic, “and by choice. I can watch some viral George Clooney sort of leading man look hungrily into the eyes of his leading lady, who moans softly and falls against him, succumbing to his ion. Yeah I can watch that, but it’s not true romance. Real life romance is fueled by a far more humdrum approach to staying connected with one another. It is kept alive each time you let your spouse know that he or she is valued during the grind of everyday life. Comical as it may sound, romance actually grows when the couple is at a supermarket and she asks, ‘Are we out of dishwasher pods?’ and he answers, ‘I don’t know, let me grab some just in case,’ instead of shrugging apathetically. It grows when you know that your spouse is having a challenging day and you spent a minute writing an email to send words of encouragement. It grows when a wife tells you she had a really bad dream, and you are not too busy to stop and ask her to tell you about it. Then after a day at work, you come home to ask her if she has thought what that dream is all about. In all these instances husbands and wives are making choices to turn toward each other rather than away. In marriage, people periodically make what we could call ‘bids’ for their partner’s attention, affection, humor or . People either turn toward one another after these bids, or they turn away. Turning toward is the basis of emotional connection, romance, ion, and a good sex life. In the Marriage Management Clinic where I keep my office, we watch hundreds of couples come for help each week. We observe them working out assignments, reading and sharing certain texts, watching video clips and even chatting while eating lunch in our cafeteria. Observing them is suspenseful because I know that couples who turn toward each other remain emotionally engaged and stay married. Those that don’t, sadly eventually lose their way.

The reason for the differing outcome of these marriages is what I have heard Pastor Scott call the couple’s emotional bank . Partners who characteristically turn toward their spouse rather than away are putting money in the bank. They are building up emotional savings that can serve as a cushion when times get rough, when they are faced with stress or conflict. Because they have stored up all this goodwill, they are better able to make allowances for each other when conflict arises. They can maintain a positive sense of each other and their marriage even during hard times. The biggest payoff from this emotional bank isn’t the cushion it offers when the couple is stressed. As I said, turning toward your partner in the little ways is also the key to long-lasting romance. Many people think that the secret to reconnecting with their partner is a candlelit dinner and a great bottle of wine in a quality restaurant or on an exotic vacation. But the real secret is to turn toward each other every day in a host of little ways. A romantic night out really turns up the heat only when a couple has kept the pilot light burning by staying in touch in the little ways. For those who are overdrawn on their that same dinner would most likely be a fiasco, filled with complaints, accusations, recriminations, or awkward silences, hardly the menu for reconnecting. By learning to turn toward each other more during the minor moments in your day, you will make your marriage not only more stable, but more romantic. Every time you make the effort to listen and to respond to what your spouse says, to help him or her, you make your marriage a little better. , couples often ignore each other’s emotional needs out of mindlessness, not malice. So, the first step in turning toward each other more is simply to be aware of how crucial these mundane moments are, not only to your marriage’s stability, but to its ongoing sense of romance. For many couples, just realizing that they shouldn’t take their everyday interactions for granted makes an enormous difference in their relationship. Remind yourself that being helpful to each other will do far more for the strength and ion of their marriage than a two week Bahamas getaway. Use the image of an emotional bank if you need help to make turning toward each other an easy, natural part of your lives together. Claire loved to have her feet rubbed, especially after a long day at work when John would use a bit of lotion to soften her skin and rub her heels. It made her want to purr. Now John also loved to have his back scratched. It wasn’t as big a deal as rubbing her feet, but just as satisfying to him. When they turned toward

each other with these tender treats, they were making deposits in their emotional bank. Let’s be clear to point out that this is not foreplay I’m referring to, nor a sexually satisfying moment. When sex becomes quantified into a commodity, a quid pro quo, ‘I’ll do this if you’ll do that’ something dark is at work. Turning toward each other is a pleasant and a much simpler thing. One day Claire forgot the back-scratch, but enjoyed the foot rub. No big deal. Then it became a regular thing for her to expect a foot rub, and forget John’s comfort. When John stopped the foot rubs, Clare blamed him for losing interest in her. She failed to keep track of her emotional balance. A rift was formed between them that could have been avoided if she had been a little less selfish, and a bit more aware of their bank balance. The more in the black your is, the more likely you are to see your marriage improve.” “Now don’t be surprised if positive changes don’t occur overnight, however. If you’ve gotten out of the habit of turning toward the other person, it may take some time to see the benefits. One of the challenges is to notice when your partner does turn toward you and vice versa. In one of our research studies in which couples were closely observed in their own home, happily married couples noticed almost all the positive things the researchers observed their partner do for them. However, unhappily married couples underestimated their partner’s loving intentions by fifty percent!” “I’ve used all my time, so let me quickly challenge you to the three-a-day test. Keep track of the times you turn toward your partner, give a compliment, some praise or encouragement, or a back rub. If you only manage one that is good, but two will be better, Three a day is best and will make a positive difference in your romance. I guarantee it! Thanks for your attention.” Then pointing toward Sarah, she added, “I’ll see you in the cherry orchard.” Applause was vigorous.

On the way home they had plenty to talk about. Sarah said that she understood the importance of everyday romance of the super market sort, but she much preferred watching a video on the couch in his arms. Max said he would always rub her feet, whether she scratched his back or not. The levity was light but underneath was a serious side. Finally Max said “I promise to practice the threea-day emotional bank deposits, as a minimum.” He held up his pinky, saying, “Morning noon and night I promise to keep romance alive, even when we are

gray and wrinkly.” Sarah ed her finger to his saying, “As do I promise, even though the mental image is scary.” They were almost to her house when Max asked, “Speaking of scary, I’m going to try to make some sample videos to market Tri-X without Sean. Would you like to be my model, or would you rather I hire one? I need a girl in shorts, sitting in a car, and a second pose sitting on a quilt or comforter, just the legs.” Sarah leveled a gaze at him saying, “You’ve never asked me to do anything debasing or dishonoring, so I agree to be your model, if it is legs only.” She squinted her eyes to emphasize the point, “I cannot image what you might have in mind.” When Max picked her up at her apartment on Saturday morning, Sarah was wearing her long raincoat. It was a clear sunny day, but winter chilly. Underneath she was wearing a pink sweater and pink shorts. “Sweetheart, I so appreciate your spunky spirit. We’re going to the Jaguar dealership to take a video.” A tender kiss made the morning a bit more comfortable. Minutes later Max was chatting with the sales manager. “Monday morning I have an appointment at Trayger Promotions, who do your national advertising. Mr. La Point is going to see a brand new technology.” A new car had been moved into the sunshine with its door open wide. Max gave Sarah his idea of how the shot should look, and using his cell phone’s video capacity, it was quickly accomplished. Max and Sarah returned to his condo where they took another video with Sarah sitting in front of the fireplace on a folded comforter. Once again she did as Max suggested. This time she wore both her engagement and wedding rings, which seemed to be the highlight of the brief video. Finally, with the fireplace in the background, they posed a bottle of Trinchero wine near a platter of cheeses, crackers, with grapes and candles. It was low light, but quite romantic. “Now let’s take you home to get into some warm clothes. I’d like to take you to lunch. I can tell you about my short scripts before smacking them with Tri-X.” They both ordered cheeseburgers and chocolate shakes. As they waited for their food, Max explained, “The first one in the car has the camera watching you rub the leather seam of the car seat. The video was showing your lap, but narrowing

onto your hand and then I lifted it to get the Jaguar logo. I’ll attach the text, ‘“Leather is the feel of luxury!’” With the word ‘Luxury’ the color will intensify and 3D will make it pop. That logo will leap off the steering wheel.” She could tell how excited he was with this breakthrough. “The second one will be just as simple. It begins looking at the fireplace then I pan down to your lap, and finally zoom into your rings. Three D begins with the text, ‘All she will want to wear!’” His smile was a bit nervous. “It’s a little insinuating, but powerful.” Sarah had her half smile. If Max was afraid she might not approve of the video, she could put those feeling to rest. “Max, I have never thought of myself as provocative or powerful. I think those are outstanding.” She reached across for his hand. “Tell me about the last one.” “In the half light, 3D will be on from the start. The text will announce, “’Taste the celebration of the season.’” He had a crooked smile, “If nothing else goes right, we have a great bottle of summer coolers left over “And how are the rs going to see these? Can you email them.” As hard as Max had tried to keep them under wraps, she couldn’t imagine such a casual exchange. “Oh no, Sweetie, “Monday morning at 9:20, I have a five minute appointment with a man in Orange County, south of L.A. My laptop will have a timer set to delete the test program at 9:40. This technology is far too important to allow it in the wrong hands.” “Wednesday I have a 10:15 and 11:05 meeting in San Francisco. Fortunately the two ad agencies are on the same block. The Shane Company sells diamonds, and yours will wow them, especially in 3D. The ad agency for Trinchero Wines was not highly motivated to change their ad campaign, but I’ll bet the demonstration will change their minds.” Max had that playful grin that Sarah loved. “But Max, are you going to spend the week in California?” “No way. I’m counting on Alaska’s dependability I’ll catch an early flight, take a short cab ride and be there right on time for my appointment, then hurry home. The only hitch I can see is if the ad man for Jaguar is late. I gave him a ten minute window before it deletes.” He gave her his “yikes” face.

Sarah chuckled, “What a good chess player you must be,” she said coyly. “Part of me thinks that is naive planning, but the other part thinks it’s brilliant. You are saying to them this is significant enough to fly from Portland for a demonstration, and urgent enough to have a very punctual window, without saying a word. I love it Max, and I love you.” She leaned across the corner of the table to kiss him. The large track hoe was distributing huge boulders as they drove up to the house. As the stones were carefully placed, it was obvious that Saturday was a work day, especially a dry one. Max made sure he parked well out of the way. When they went behind the house to see the pile of boulders, they found a huge dumpster resting on a layer of heavy gravel. Its purpose was obvious because a spacious opening had been cut in the wall of the house so the demolition debris could be hauled out. Now Max was aware of staying well out of the way. Sarah said quietly, “Max, I think that big hole is going to be the French doors off the dining area. That means this area,” she pointed to the side, “will be a deck.” She was recalling the plans. With a happy smile, she said, “Let’s go see if the front door has changed.”

Advertising Campaign

T rayger Promotions had an elegant office facility. Inside it was quiet and had a bit of a new leather smell, as you would imagine for a Jaguar. Guy La Point was ready for Max at 9:15 and greeted him with courtesy. “Mr. Wall, I appreciate your promptness, and am curious what I can do for you in just five minutes. That was a classic sales move.” He waited for the pitch. Max opened his laptop. “I have a forty second ad that might be of special interest to you, sir.” Mr. La Point immediately recognized the interior of their new 2015 model Jaguar. “Holy…” he declared. “Let me see that again.” “I’ve never…” There just weren’t words to describe the puzzle of 3D and intense color. “What agency are you with?” Then not waiting for an answer, he asked “Who’s your technician? May I see it again?” Max looked at his watch and said, “We have eight minutes for you to show this to whomever you like. Then it deletes itself. The technology is far too new to risk exposure.” La Point grabbed him by the arm, “Then come with me. Mr. Foster our president will want to see this.” They hurried down the hall and entered another office without knocking. “Quickly, show him.” La Point was so excited he was speaking in short grunts. Both men watched the presentation three times before it clicked off. “I’m sorry,” Max said. “If you like the text of the ad, you may have it. I just made it on my cell phone with my fiancé last Saturday. If you are interested in the technology, I’m not surprised. I can add it to any digital format you make. The technology is not on the table, only the application of it. I have two more demonstrations in San Francisco, then I will accept offers. Thank you for your promptness and energetic interest.” He gave them his Cyber Solutions card and folded the laptop. “Have a great day, gentlemen.”

The two men looked at each other with something between amazement and delight. As Max was flying home, Sarah was on the phone with Terry Cobb. “Good afternoon Terry, it’s Sarah Dalton, Max’s fiancé.” “Fine thank you sir, but I’m having a problem that I hope you can help with. It’s your son Jeff. I thought Max made it clear to him that he is a sub, working through you. He’s having trouble understanding his boundaries,” “Yes sir. He called me three times this morning asking silly job stuff, did I like the placement of the three rocks in the front corner, and that sort of stuff.” “No sir. He stopped by my office to see if he could take me to lunch.” “Yes I agree. I tried to make it clear to him that I was busy, and not in the least interested in going to lunch with him. Then just a few minutes ago he came back saying that he had quit early so we could grab a beer.” “I so agree, sir. I’m not sure how he knows that Max is out of town, but it makes me feel a little creepy. Will you insist that he stops calling this office, and especially coming in to talk with me?” “No I don’t want it to jeopardize the project either” “Thank you for understanding.” Just talking about it made her feel queasy and old memories fluttered to life. Wednesday when Max walked into the lobby of Western Powers, the agency representing the Shane Company, he had a repeat of his first showing of Tri-X. He had a 10:15 with a Stephaney, who he imagined might be an assistant to the person he wanted to see. Later, he was glad he treated her with respect and a professional courtesy. She was five minutes early. “Mr. Wall, you have five minutes of my time. What would you like to do with it?” “Thank you for your directness. Please view this new technology.” At first there was something of a polite smirk on her face as the ad opened. It was quite amateur. Then suddenly the impact of what she was seeing made her gasp. “May I see it again?” After the second repeat, Max warned her that he only had ten more minutes before his next appointment. He made it clear that the ad was of no importance to him, but the technology was available to enhance any digital master. She called three others to quickly come into her office for a viewing. After three viewings, he closed his laptop and apologized that his time was expired. He gave

them his card and the invitation to Cyber Solutions if they were interested in the application of the technology. Stephaney Powers, the owner of the agency promised that he would hear from her soon. Max was a bit breathless as he arrived at Crystal Ads at eleven o’clock sharp. He was told that Mr. Redding was not in his office yet, but she expected him momentarily. Max discovered that he was not accomplished at waiting, as his laptop was clicking down the seconds. At 11:15 he asked the receptionist if there might be anyone else who could view the presentation. At 11:20 he told her that a timer was going to delete all the information from his laptop in just ten minutes, and someone in this office might lose their job. He was ushered into Mr. Vaughn’s office where he quickly opened the laptop without even an introduction. The man was instantly fixated by the presentation. When it was complete he waved his hands for Max to do it again. Halfway through the third playing the timer clicked off and the laptop was dark. Then Max introduced himself. As he offered his card he said, “I’m Max Wall from Cyber Solutions in Portland. We have generated a new technology that will be state of the art for digital enhancement very soon. I had an appointment with an S. Redding at 11:05. Because of the sensitivity of this new technology we are taking no risks of having it copied or stolen. At 11:30, the timer deleted everything on my laptop.” “You flew down from Portland just for this?” the gentleman asked. “Yes sir,” Max said politely. “But you are not the only agency to see it today, just the only one too busy to give it justice. If you would like to see a different application of this technology, go the YouTube ‘George Fox College. And look in Dottie’s Foundation.’ Thank you, Mr. Vaughn, for your time this morning I hope I have not inconvenienced you.” He presented a business card, and folded his laptop. He left the office thinking “Well, two out of three is pretty good!” Before his plane left San Francisco, Sarah was on the phone to Terry Cobb, again. “Mr. Cobb, it’s Sarah.” “Yes, again, and Jeff is plainly not listening to my warning. He called me three times yesterday, even though I asked him each time to stop. He was waiting for me when I arrived at my office this morning, asking if I wanted breakfast with him.” “Yes, it is very serious. He called three times again this morning and then showed up to take me to lunch, again. It is creepy!” “No, we are way beyond apologies. He needs help.” “Yes, my other two employees. They closed and locked their doors.” “Thank you, complete termination, that’s the intent of this call. I will put it in writing if you think that

will finally get through to him. If you will itemize the costs, I will pay for the concept drawing and the rocks, with three days of his labor. But you must convey to him that we no longer want him on the job site.” “Yes, I’m sure. If Jeff comes into my office again I’m going to call the police. If he continues to call, I will call my attorney and get a restraining order against him. That’s how serious I am.” “No I don’t want it to further jeopardize our relationship, but frankly it already has. I would rather feel safe than have a loose cannon contractor around” “No, I don’t need any other referral right now. My orchard manager has several reliable s.” “Yes, we may be young, sir, but certainly we are not without powerful resources.” Her hands were trembling as she put down the phone. She so needed Max. When Shuttle Express dropped him off at the condo, it was his intent to call Sarah immediately to tell her of his success. Then he saw the list of emails accumulated on Michael, and he knew he had responses that were even more demanding. Mr. Dawson’s deep familiar voice said, “Max, thanks for getting back to me. You must be in demand. Let me tell you that those file mines have been amazing. We didn’t know how many leaks we had in our web system. In just this first week we have had over three dozen hits by hackers. That’s quite a lot of destroyed computers. Have you got time for another list? This time I am asking our foreign operatives to put a ‘Secret’ file on their computer. I’ve attached the list with s. Can you get it worked in?” When Max assured him that he could, Mr. Dawson promised another serving of seizures were on their way. “With Liz laid up, it seems practical for me to just shoot them to you instead of using a middle-man. This is working better than folks thought it would. Hey, I’ve got to go.” The line went dead, and Max was grinning again. He did wonder what “folks” Mr. Dawson was referring to. Cyber Solutions also had emails from the three agencies he had visited, but only Stephaney Powers had “urgent” in the subject line. Her email said that she had told one of her fashion lines about the new technology. “They are hosting a show in Denver this weekend, featuring their spring line of ‘sheer joy.’ They have a one hour master to show at the meeting. I will courier the disc up to you tomorrow if you will apply the 3D technology for$10K. Please reply immediately.” “Wow, that was quicker than I expected,” Max thought. He knew that the

decision he was about to make would affect Cyber Solution’s future. He replied: “Thank you for your confidence, Stephaney. To shake the industry, and introduce a true game-changer, our minimum application fee is $20K. I can pick the courier up from the airport, and have him on a return flight in the afternoon.” Within five minutes he received her answer, “Done deal! He’ll deliver your check with the master. Max, I would have done it for $50K! It will be worth it!” S. Powers His reply to her was, “And I would have done it for $5K just to get the technology seen by those folks. They will be knocking on my door within hours. You have set the new standard of excellence. Thanks for the reveal! When will he arrive?” M. Wall. One last exchange said, “O.K. we both won! Max, if you ever want a real job, making real money, I can make you a Western Powers agent. Good luck tomorrow. Our courier’s name is Clifford Rowe. He’ll be on Alaska 2131 arriving at 8:40 A.M. Be nice to him.” S. Powers For the next hour Max read emails and composed a document that could be attached to replies giving procedure and price for the service. Finally, he called Sarah’s office.

A Matter of trust

“H i Max. Did you just get back? This has been a long day for you.” She would have said more, but he quickly gave her the highlights of the day, especially the response from Stephaney Powers. “She’s going to pay twenty thousand dollars?” Sarah echoed. She listened for a bit more, and then asked him, “Would you like to hear about my day?” When she told him about her conversation with Terry she was almost in tears. “Sarah, Honey”, Max comforted, “that is terrible. Are you feeling some ghosts from the past?” He was genuinely concerned. She took a deep breath and answered, “No, I think I am more frustrated. I wanted to be seen as one of the owners, and he saw me as a conquest. I’ll bet when his dad tells him that I fired him, he may not feel so smug.” “You fired him?” Max asked in awe. “Yeah, and I told his dad that if he couldn’t control Jeff, I might need to fire him too, just to feel safe.” “I’ll bet he was shocked to have that response from a lovely little lady,” Max smiled. “I think I struck a nerve because he said we are too young to be doing a project like this.” “Whoa! He said we are too young?” Max asked for clarity. Sarah now managed a smile too. “Yeah, I believe he has been so very comfortable as the construction company owner that he has forgotten that others have clout too. He was just surprised, that’s all. But I will be eager to see what the next couple days bring.” Max asked, “Is there anything I can do? It sounds to me that you have taken care of the problem. Would you like me to look into it any further?”

“No my Lover Man, I would like you to look into a plate of Lasagna down at the Riverside with me. You can pick me up at home in about a half hour. Does that sound fun?” The matter with Jeff was already history. But it nagged at Max. He had been mildly amused at Jeff’s childish attention last week. Now he was feeling guilty for not being able to protect her from Jeff’s advances. Now there was something he could do. He called Bret! “Hi Buddy,” he greeted the quiet man. “Are you suffering cabin-fever? The reason I ask is I have a favor you could do for me. The son of one of the contractors working on the renovation of the old house has become too fond of Sarah. His name is Jeff Cobb, and he has been stalking her all weekend. Today she had to fire him.” “Yeah, she kicked him off the property. Would you mind driving out to 14139 Shelton in east Portland to make sure he understands that she does not want to see him, ever again?” “I knew you would want to do something about it. You haven’t had much exercise for a couple weeks.” All the way to the riverfront, Sarah had chattered with too much built up news. She had welcomed three new clients, and Dory had agreed to read Spencer Shepherd’s manual, “The Clockwork Office,” and attend the RESPA webinar. “She understood the error of her ways,” Sarah confided, “and reaffirmed her contentedness in her office.” Sarah said that she had three delightful conversations with Gwen Charles, who works for John. “She has some fantastic ideas about helping us furnish this big place. She asked me if she could put a hold on a few things. I told her, ‘of course,’ as long as it’s not costing us. She wants me to come in tomorrow because there are other folks who are also interested in some of the stuff. What do you think? Do you trust me enough to make some minor decisions?” “I trust you enough to make any decision, small or huge.” “Do you trust me enough to show Eddie and his nursery cousin around the property Saturday? I would hope that you could be with us. There is still a whole bunch of work to do.” “I trust you completely because I love you completely. Of course I’ll be with you. If you will negotiate with Eddie, I know the work will get done well, and there will be a toy in the Cracker Jack Box.” Sarah had a puzzled look on her face. “I didn’t understand that. Was it good, or

bad?” “Sweet Heart, when I talk with you it is always good. I simply meant that Eddie usually brings more than we expect, there is a toy, a fun surprise, included. We may talk about trees, but I’ll bet there is some other interesting subject to be examined, such as students for Dottie’s Foundation.” Now a huge smile bloomed on Sarah. “You know it would be a perfect time for him to get on board with finding us some Cracker Jack students.” She pulled him to her to kiss. He straightened up, reminding her that he was driving. “Hey Kiddo, did I tell you the Cyber Solutions is receiving its first payment tomorrow? A courier from San Francisco is bringing a master disc for me to install Tri-X for twenty thousand dollars.” They had a ton of news to share as well as a fun dinner. Before they left the restaurant, Sarah held up her pinky, waiting for Max to link up. Then she said, “Max I promise to practice the concept of equal partners. I will try always to respect your leadership and offer mine where it is productive.” He promised to do the same.

An unmistakable lesson

I t was just before nine o’clock when Bret knocked on the door. The lights were on in the house and he could hear loud music. A young man with a shaved head and a lot of attitude opened the door. “I’m looking for Jeff Cobb,” Bret said, holding up his FBI identification. “I’m Jeff,” he growled, “what do you want?” “Well Jeff, I want to talk with you about how you have been stalking Sarah Dalton.” “Oh shit!” the young man said in fear. His right shoulder twitched back preparing to throw a punch. When the blow came, Bret easily blocked it with his left forearm. Then he struck back, less than full force, with the edge of his right hand. He didn’t want to severely injure the young man. Bret was still holding his shield ID. The well-aimed chopping blow struck directly into the throat of a surprised opponent. In a gasping, gagging heap, Jeff fell to the floor. His roommate rushed into the room in his defense. Bret slipped his ID back into his pocket and pulled out his pistol with the silencer. Both young men now understood the gravity of the moment. “I’m not supposed to pull this out unless I am ready to shoot some fool,” the agent rumbled. The roommate raised his hands submissively and sat down on a chair. Bret turned on Jeff saying with mock shock, “You struck a federal officer, that’s five to seven years in Leavenworth. You are accused of stalking a woman who asked you several times to stop, that’s another felony sex offense. You are looking at spending the next twenty years in a federal prison, and forever being on the sexual predator list. Do I have your complete and undivided although somewhat limited attention, you little piece of dog crap?” Jeff couldn’t take his eyes off the pistol with the silencer. Bret continued the pressure, “For the life of me I can’t understand how a puss like you, with your bald head, tattoos and silly earrings, might think an intelligent beautiful lady like Sarah is the least bit interested in spending one

minute with you. Fool! She’s marrying one of our field agents in two months, and here you come sniffing around like a young punk dog in heat. I really should just shoot your ass, and Mr. Wimpy over there too. Do you understand what I am saying?” He moved closer to Jeff, who flinched away. “I need to make sure you understand.” Jeff nodded vigorously. “No, I don’t think you get it. I need to help you . I think you are going to waltz right back into her office, or wait outside her door until you can insult her again.” Now Jeff shook his head as Bret moved a tiny bit closer. “I think….” Bret’s hand was a blur as it reached for the gold ring in Jeff’s ear. With a snap of his wrist, the ring was torn from the earlobe. The shocked young man could only whimper in pain. “I think if she ever sees your mutt face again, I will come back here and drop you like a used condom. Is that plain enough for your limited understanding Mr. Cobb?” He slid his pistol back in his shoulder holster. Jeff had wet himself. Max got a very early start the next morning. He had determined that Mr. Dawson should receive top priority with his list of foreign s. That list was satisfied in less than two hours. Max was just getting up to fix a bowl of instant oatmeal when Michael pinged an email from Mr. Dawson, requesting a call. “Good morning Max.” He loved that voice. “Mr. Dawson applauds your diligent work this morning. You are making the professionals around here look lazy.” Max wasn’t sure if it was the low tone of her voice or the breathy quality of it, but he was mesmerized. “Here is another serving of seizures that you can work on later when you’ve had some rest. He wants you to know that these are quite large and may take a while longer to work their way through the judicial system, but he is confident they will all render lavish rewards. Say ‘hello’ to Michael for me. He was one of my very best students.” The line went still. It was 8:00 and time to head to the airport. He quickly printed a placard “Clifford Rowe” and got into the morning traffic. As it turned out he had ten minutes to spare, much less than his comfort zone would prefer. On the way to the condo and back there was hardly any conversation, although the city was new to Clifford. It was nearly 11:00 when Max got back, but he had such a contented feeling. He looked at the twenty thousand dollar check. “This might be the start of something epic!” he said to himself. Next he turned to the requests for information on Tri-X. He made a Macro thanking them for their interest, and attaching the skeleton instructions:

1. Choose a segment of a desired day; one: 6 – 9 a.m.; two 9 – noon; three noon to 3 p.m. four 3 to 6 p.m. five 6 to 9; emergency, double price. -Email to confirm availability. 2. Courier any digital master disc, accompanied by payment of $25K each to 3661 Patton Way W. Unit 708, Portland OR 97201; 3. Email your travel plans, i.e. flight number and arrival time, 4. Allow ten minutes for application; 25 minutes for taxi ride from and to the international airport. The taxi will wait for your return.

Max sent out at least three dozen replies, but he ignored any email that insinuated the technology had a price. He enjoyed a can of soup for lunch, and when he returned to Cyber Solutions, there were six requests for appointments by s he had not visited. By two o’clock, he had six more; one from Mr. Foster, who reported that Jaguar had been so impressed with his demo that they were using the “feel of luxury” as their spring advertising campaign, and Crystal Ads requested five appointments. There was an accompanying email from Mr. Vaughn, the owner, thanking Max for his resourceful introduction to this “industry changer.” Just after three o’clock, Stephaney Powers sent an email informing Max that she had viewed the master Mr. Rowe had returned. “Fabulous is not a large enough word Max!” she praised. “The other three agents have multiple s which are queuing up for their turn with your magic. I’ll be in touch.” She must have just read his instructional email, because she replied quickly, “Mr. Wall, how could you increase your service price by 20%, and at the same time do away with the customer limo service? Does your company have a complaint department? S. Powers” Max replied, “Sadly our introductory special offer expired. The overwhelming response to our service has created a time pressure on our technicians, which

precludes their absence from the laboratory. It is beneficial however, for the many surface providers who are still available. Finally, we are the most affordable service provider in the industry, and are dedicated to keep our pricing competitive. There are some who believe our fees could be much higher. Sincerely, M. Wall.” They both enjoyed a chuckle at his humor. The list of seizures from Mr. Dawson was mind blowing! There were nine on the list, all chemical disposal companies, that were in noncompliance with federal regulations and all of them were hiding huge sums in offshore s. Max was the long strong arm of the law. It took him less than an hour to find them and then carefully remove their balances without a trace. He didn’t even want to think about his reward share. It was like winning the lottery, but greater. He had to remind himself that they were just numbers, but he knew he had to chat with Sarah. “Hi Kiddo. I know you have that dinner meeting tonight. I just wanted to say ‘Hi. I miss you.’” She said it was good to hear his voice too. “Hey, we don’t have any other plans for tomorrow night do we?” he asked. She assured him the only plans she had was snuggling with him on the couch and maybe watching some TV. “The reason I ask, is Bret just emailed us an invitation to them at the Olive Garden for supper. He says Liz is doing great and they are having some cabin fever and need someone else to talk with. He says he wants to pick up the tab. Sounds good to me.” She was quick to agree, and then asked Max if she could call him sort of late tonight. “There are six school districts represented at the meeting tonight,” Sarah explained, “and the subject is ing. My track record is looking real good. I might have some new s to tell you about.” She paused. “I can’t imagine what it will be like to say ‘Good night’ right to you, to kiss you goodnight without thinking of going home.” Her voice was getting husky with emotion. Without wanting to, Max thought, “That’s a lot like Double-Oh-Seven!” “Call me as late as you want. I’ll be glad when we don’t need to worry about that too.”

Best Man

T he trouble with working at home is that you never really get away from either of them. Max had a reheated leftover dinner while he sat in front of his computer. There were nine new requests for Tri-X appointments. He sent the confirmations thinking, “That makes 22 in one day! He sent an email to Sean asking if he was still up. Moments later he received a reply.

Sean: “I was just thinking about you, Max. You warned me that this job would be different from anything I’ve ever done. Both of us would be amazed here. I’ve only seen Dawson twice, but both times he told me what an outstanding guy you are. I’m a little jealous.”

Max: “Hey, he has told me what a great candidate you are, and what an outstanding friend. Are you working on something you can tell me about?”

Sean: “Yeah, her name is ‘Udiko.’ She’s from Hawaii, and she arrived here just four days ahead of me, so we are both rookies. Dawson asked me to see how the Fly Trap might work into internet security, which is where she was assigned. Do you see a pattern forming here? She is crazy smart, can write code like a machinegun. When we were working with the Trap, she drew a similarity to caller ID on the phone. Since every computer has an IP address, we should be able to establish congruence with the sender. There are at least a dozen ramifications to the use of that information. We’ll see where it takes us. Right now she likes me, and vice versa.”

Max: “Look at you Brother! You have only been there two weeks and already your world is shaking. I brought Tri-X public this week. I demoed it for some advertising folks in L.A. and Frisco. Today I have 22 appointments to apply it to their masters. I hope this is just the initial rush. I would have trouble keeping up with this pace.”

Sean: “If they bring the master to you how long does it take you to insert?”

Max: “I can insert in a couple minutes, if everything goes smoothly.”

Sean: “How much do you charge a pop?”

Max: “25K!!!!!!!!!”

Sean: “Crying out loud, Max. That’s a half mill today!”

Max: “Yeah, it a very unusual day. Did I tell you that we are renovating the old house up on Hill Terrace?”

Sean: “How many hours are there in your day, Max? Do you still have a minute or two for Sarah?”

Max: “Yes I do! Which reminds me; we moved the wedding date up to April 16th. If I provide the tickets, would you plus one come to the wedding. I’d like you to be my best man.” There was a lengthy pause before his reply.

Sean: “I’m honored! May I have a little lag time before I answer? I’m not sure how Dawson would view my absence from training. It also might be a little early for Udiko to meet the folks. But I’d sure like to work on all that.”

Max: “By the first of April our old house should be habitable. You would be welcome to hang out with us. There are eight bedrooms and six and a half baths.”

Sean: “Whaaaaaaaaaaaat? I have only been gone a few weeks and you have eight bedrooms?”

Max: “It’s complicated, but righteous. You are more than a brother to me. Let’s talk again soon.”

Sean: “Right back atcha!”

Sarah called just before 10 o’clock. At first there was gentle conversation about their busy days. Sarah believed she had gained three more school districts for her ing firm. Quietly she wondered if this was getting too large for a secondary job. “Maybe it’s time for me to reevaluate, again.” Max shared her mood. “I can’t a more energetic day. I’m just sorry I wasn’t able to hold you in my arms.” Before he started down a slippery slope, Max changed the subject. “Sean and I were talking about April. I told him we would probably be in the new digs, and could offer hospitality, even though his folks just live across the river. I asked him to be my best man.” “How will your brother feel about that,” she asked.

“Oh, Steve will probably be relieved. We have never shared much. I think Sean was touched by the invitation.” Sarah asked, “Would you think it’s appropriate for me to ask Grace French to be my matron of honor?” “You know, I don’t understand why we still use such antiquated names,” Max pondered. “Why wouldn’t she be your best lady? That makes sense to me, or ‘best woman’!” He chuckled. “It also makes sense for Grace to stand up with you.” They continued to chat like lovers for more than an hour. In the morning there were seven more requests for an appointment. Max had crafted a desktop calendar that he could book at least two applications each hour. Instead of a heavy lunch, he decided to enjoy a protein drink on his way over to the project. There was plenty of activity when he arrived, but most of it seemed to be above the basement. The dumpster was mounded full of debris, which Max recognized as lath and plaster. He was just peeking in the new opening when John’s familiar voice greeted him. “Welcome home Max. I would have cleaned it up if I’d have known.” As he shook Max’s hand he asked, “Are you checking up on us?” “No,” Max answered happily, “I’ve been in California most of the week, and I’m eager to see the progress. “Well Jeff was going hot and heavy on the rocks for a while, but I guess there was a problem. Terry said he was asked to leave.” The contractor was uncomfortable saying much more. Max didn’t want to share much either so he simply said, “I heard there was some personal problem. Sarah’s orchard manager is going to be here in the morning to see if he can help. She also told me Gwen has been very helpful finding furnishings.” Then as an afterthought he asked, “I don’t see Terry’s pickup. Is everything O.K. there?” “You bet! He doesn’t have much demolition in the basement. He’ll get busy when we start framing. Then the electrical and plumbing will take center stage. Hey! I have a couple design questions for you.” He led the way out to the entryway. I planned a powder room here, but we didn’t show where the door to it should be.”

Max understood the question and hoped it was genuine not just a smokescreen to make him feel useful. “I think it should open out into this room, or else it will seem that it’s just a bathroom off the kitchen,” Max answered. “I agree,” John smiled warmly. “Now at the other end of the hall there is a guest room. Would you like a door into the bathroom from the hall as well as one from the bedroom?” “Yeah, I thought there was one on the design. I’m thinking that guest room will be used sparingly, but the bathroom will be near the office and media rooms. That door will probably get a lot of use.” “I agree,” the contractor grinned. “Upstairs is pretty much a mess. It’s stripped down to the framing. When will the Home and Garden guys be back?” “Probably early next week, when everything is at its worst.” “Good. The dumpster is going home tomorrow. All the kitchen cabinets will be gone by then, and we’re going to be blacktopped on Monday. It sure looks different without all the trees doesn’t it?” Max had the distinct feeling that John was trying to be cordial, but was anxious to get back to work. He said, “I’ve got to get back to my desk. I just came by to see if we are on time so far.” “We’re about a half day ahead for the first full week, and so far there have been no surprises. This old girl was built by good carpenters and with fine material. So far it’s a breeze.” He offered his hand once again. Max was glad there were no other comments about Jeff. Sarah was wearing her black and green Dalton Plaid suit when Max picked her up for supper. They kissed a couple times before he said; “Now my day is going good.” “Mine too,” she replied, “and I have a ton of stuff to tell you about Gwen. I think, second to you, she’s going to be my best friend. Are you ready for me to dump a load of gossip on you?”

“Dump away,” He said bravely. “I can handle it.” “O.k.” Sarah’s voice became confidentially quiet even though they were alone in the car. “First she is John’s daughter. She was enrolled in Corvallis, when Jeff Cobb went there too. He thought they were meant to be together and she thought he was a freak. He assaulted her!” Sarah’s voice took on a hard tone. “She didn’t say ‘rape’ but I’m thinking that happened. Before he was arrested, there was a settlement out of court to keep the whole sordid deal secret. Terry is paying a hundred thousand dollars to her in monthly payments. Sound familiar? She has finished her degree, and gotten married; there’s a restraining order on Jeff, but he seems unwilling to respect it. I wish someone could teach him a lesson.” She made a pouty face. “This is the first time the two dads have shared a job since the trouble, but they seem to be handling it well. Anyway, she loves our house and wants to do a terrific job helping with the furnishings. The very first thing she showed me yesterday was a large walnut bar from a men’s club in Boston. The back bar is classic glass doors and mirrors. I think you’re going to love it, and it will just fit in the basement. She has also found a walnut roll top desk that will compliment the office. It’s big enough to hold a desk top computer, a perfect blend of old fashion and new function. I told her that your blue leather furniture would look great in the media room, and your dining room would be perfect for the area off the kitchen. And for sure you wanted the king size bed in the master bedroom.” She had a pixie grin. “Gwen said she had seen a formal dining room table and chairs that would be spectacular here, and comfortably seats fourteen. Our formal dining room has plenty of space for it.” Sarah realized she was babbling. “So, how was your day, Honey?” Her tone was playfully flirty. Max answered seriously, “I received almost a dozen more requests for an appointment with Tri-X. I feel like I am barely in control of this. We are nailing unbelievable money, but I’m just a little afraid that it’s riding me, rather than the other way around.” He took a breath. “I went over to the project and found no Mr. Cobb. Terry said it was because he has no demolition to do, but I wonder if it has to do with Jeff. Now that I know there is some back-story to these two, I’m a little anxious about that too. The only thing I have no worries about is you. You put the wheels on the right track for me.” She squeezed his arm tenderly. “With as much as we both have on our plates,” Sarah said, matching his tone, “It’s a wonder we even know which direction we are going.” She was still for

just a moment before she concluded, “But my stars; isn’t it exciting?” They arrived at the Olive Garden before Bret and Liz. He told the hostess the reservation was probably in the name “Bret Franklin.” Sarah was the first to see them, and she waved. With a hug, she said to Liz. “You look great!” “I can’t recall a more restful two weeks,” Liz answered with a happy smile. Right behind her Bret was also enjoying the moment. Once they were seated she asked Max if Mr. Dawson had sent him any assignments, since she hadn’t received anything except a ‘get well’ email. Max saw it as Liz trying to direct the conversation away from her, again. He assured her that he had been busy enough. Max said to Bret, “And look at you all fat and happy. I’ll bet you’ve been getting fidgety, with all this sleep.” “Yeah,” the big guy grinned. “I’ve had to start walking before I go to bed, but I’m getting used to a full night. We’ve got something we want to talk with you two about after we get some hydration.” When the wine was served to Bret and Liz, and iced tea to Max and Sarah, Bret said, “We want to ask your opinion, since you are not officially a part of the agency.” He took a deep breath, and Sarah nudged Max’s knee. “We’ve been getting along so well these last two weeks, we’ve both been surprised.” He was obviously uneasy. “I like waiting on her, and she likes to have someone to talk to, and we haven’t had one fight.” His eyes fastened onto Max. “Do you think anyone needs to know if she decides to spend a couple more weeks with me?” He sort of relaxed once it was said. “We get the same emails, so Dawson doesn’t need to know, and I go into the agency office to check on local stuff every other day. I just wonder what you think about it.” Without hesitating, Max said, “You are demonstrating what fine partners you are. Who could understand what she needs better than you Bret? And who could you trust more than this guy to look out for you, Liz?” Sarah added, “Liz, just because you feel like you are better, that you had major surgery, and rest for a full month is what the doctor prescribed. Bret can help you finish the healing all the way.” They nodded in agreement. “Hey Max, tell us about that old house. Is it just a fixer-upper?” It was Bret’s

way of signaling that the subject was changed, and he was satisfied with the answer. Max told them some of the truth of it until their food arrived. The serving person asked if they would like refills on the wine, and Bret answered, “No thanks. I’m the designated driver, with a precious enger.” Liz shook her head in disbelief, but she actually enjoyed the moment a lot. It had been a very long time since anyone had called her precious. As they were preparing to leave the restaurant, Bret asked an important question. “Hey Max, does your church have a pretty strong roof? Liz and I were thinking we’d like to tag along some Sunday, and wouldn’t want it to fall in on everybody.” He laughed, but only to hide the seriousness of his offer. “It’s a solid roof, and a happy prospect to have you with us in worship. Just tell us when you’d like to go. I think Pastor Scott’s sermon next week is entitled ‘The Power of Healing Hope.’ It would be timely, don’t you think?” They agreed that it would be very timely. Before Max turned out the lights for the day, he checked his emails. There were a dozen more requests for appointments, most of them from Western Powers. One was quite direct. “Max, this is ridiculous. In one week, I have written Cyber Solutions checks for almost a half million dollars. We haven’t heard from my eastern, southern, or central agencies, but they will be much bigger. I want you to put a value on this technology that I can acquire. Would forty million do it? S. Powers. Max replied before shutting down for the night. “I know it is ridiculously mesmerizing! I’m averaging about twenty requests per day. That’s over three mill a week! But this is only the first week, and the only promotion I did was three demonstrations in L.A. and Frisco. When this hits the east coast markets, I expect real interest. No, $40m won’t get anywhere near close to start. Maybe we would talk at $75m. I’m just amazed where this is going! Sleep well. M. Wall Cyber Solutions.” He of course, was unaware of the profanity at the San Francisco side of the exchange. In the morning Max found thirteen more requests. Mr. Vaughn at Crystal Ads asked if he could send a courier with eight masters and a check for $200K ASAP. His plane will arrive at 2:45 p.m. today. Charles “Chuck” Vaughn. Max called Sarah, “Good morning, Honey.” He loved the sound of her sleepy

voice. “Could I take you to breakfast in a little while? Appleby’s has cinnamon Brioche French toast. You’ve been so generous preparing breakfast for me. This morning is my turn. When may I pick you up?” He wondered if she would be able to help him think through the problem that was forming in his mind. “Eddie said he would be at the house by nine o’clock,” she answered. “I’ll hurry so you can be here by eight. I’ll be happy to see you.

Eddie and Hank

“G ood morning Senorita Sarah, Senor Max. Jore house is so bery bery big,” Eddie said in greeting. He had two other men with him. “We were hoppy to have CheePS to fine you up here on the hill. Here is my cousin Ronnie, who has the nursery; and dis is my cousin Hank from Bancouber, who is a Master Gardener. I tot he might have some good ideas for you.” Sarah spread the concept drawing on the hood of the truck so they all could get an idea of the scope of the project. “The man who began this job is no longer my employee. I like what he did with these large boulders, but there are still a few more in the back to be placed.” Eddie asked, “Did he have some other chob?” “He forgot that I am the boss,” Sarah said with a bit of a growl’ “Si, Senorita that is a bad thing for him. It will never hoppen again.” He could how firm she had been with him a long time ago. There was a lot of work going on inside the house, so they carefully made their way around the outside, viewing the project from all angles, and making suggestions. Ronnie affirmed that he had ample large Camellias that would bloom profusely through the spring and summer, and some that would bloom through the fall. The Rhododendrons, Hydrangea, and Dogwood were not as mature, but more abundant, with a wide choice of colors. He assured Sarah he could have them delivered and planted within two weeks, especially if he had Hank’s help. “A house this large,” Hank advised, “requires major accent trees. I would suggest three groupings at the far side of the house of four or five Weeping Alaska Cedars, which are dramatic, They would look quite natural in the rock formations, and one large one at this back corner for symmetry. Instead of two weeping cherries beside the front walkway, how about several along the sidewalk and porch.” It was obvious that he knew a great deal about design.

“Then the subject of flower beds with all this available space is wonderful. You know, Portland is called the ‘Rose City.’” Eddie explained, “Hank was born in Wenatchee, where his folks worked in an apple orchard, but he got his first big chob on Bancouber Island, working at the Gardens. Then he met, Consuelo. She had a big chob in Bancouber, so he moved there and works for Park department. They have a son, Alex, and the most beautiful daughter, Juanita. I told him about this chob when Senorita Sarah asked me about students for the college help. It might be good for everybody.” Eddie’s smile indicated satisfaction in doing two jobs for Sarah, at once. Max asked, “Do you have a green card, Hank?” “That is not necessary, Mr. Wall, since we are a dual citizenship family.” He paused, waiting for another question. Sarah, interrupted by saying, “Here is the quote we had for the landscaping. The rocks and general grading are finished, practically. If we add those extra twenty trees, we should be about square. Can you do this job and stay within the quote?” She looked at Ronnie and Hank. They both nodded. Hank added, “And we can seed the big grass areas. Do you have a mower?” “I hadn’t thought about that, Hank,” Max said. “I suppose I should start looking for one.” “Mr. Sterling, Consuelo’s employer, is moving to Montreal next month. I know he would like to sell the new Yamaha mower that he just bought last year, and many yard tools. Would you like me to find out what he wants for them?” Sarah was listening to a deeper subject. She asked, “Hank are you and Consuelo moving to Montreal with Mr. Sterling?” With a weary smile he answered, “No ma’am. I am not in the Sterling’s employee, only Consuelo. We moved to Vancouver so Alex and Juanita could go to the college. I’m seasonal help for the parks department. We’re both looking for new jobs. That’s why I came down to pick up some of this job. Thanks to Eduardo.” Sarah asked, “Do you think, since you all travel some distance, that you can

have all this done in a month, weather permitting?” They both nodded. “Give me your mailing address,” she said to Ronnie. “I’ll send you half now, and the balance when it’s done.” Sarah held out her hand. Max held out some folded money. “Eddie, you did a good thing today. Here’s a bonus, and some gas money to run back and forth a few times. They watched the pickup drive down the hill with three very happy engers. Sarah asked if they could look inside the house if they stayed out of the way. They found John’s demolition team just finishing clearing the cupboards from the kitchen. Max thought the space was immense. It looked so bare with all the walls stripped of lath and plaster, now just framing. In the library a hole existed where a stairway would be placed. Max invited Sarah to spend some time at his condo, looking through the emails, both from George Fox, and Tri-X. He was still wrestling with asking her opinion on such an important question. He told her there was a courier bringing some work for him at about 3:15, with a check for two hundred thousand dollars. “What in the world, Max, would ….” She didn’t know how to finish the sentence. “I know. This has been a crazy week. I think I need your advice. Just this week, I have raked in over a million dollars from Tri-X. And I don’t want to think about how much I will receive from enormous seizures.” The condo didn’t have the stigma to her that Max had to deal with, so she was extra cozy. He had stopped to get Arby’s sandwiches. She was quite content while he booted up the three computers. Michael had a dozen assignments from Mr. Dawson, most of them seizures. There were several dozen more requests for George Fox information, and Tri-X had eight more requests for appointments in the past four hours. There was also a puzzle for Max, however. A had been made by Western Powers, but there was no message. Max sent a quick note to ask if he had missed something. He said to Sarah, “Here’s my problem, Honey. I have over a thousand hopeful folks who want to go to school on a scholarship, and I haven’t read many of them. I can keep up with Tri-X, but I’m not sure what I should do with the money. The FBI seizures are easy for me to keep up, and I feel like I’m doing a

good service. But again, I don’t know what to do with it all the reward money that’s rolling in, except bank it in Switzerland.” “I’m not sure what you are asking from me,” Sarah said as she gave him a snuggle. “I can help you keep accurate records of it all, and I might be able to suggest some trust investments for tax reasons. However, I’ve been chewing on sort of the same thing. I find myself just wanting to be around you. I’m feeling more and more lovey as I think our wedding is only two months away. When I was awarded the new school contracts, I started thinking about hiring another ant, or two so I could be there less and here more.” She looked up into his face and said, “That old house has become awfully important to me. I’m sort of feeling like it is a bright conclusion. I’m just not sure of what.” “I know!” Max declared. “It’s like we are sharing the same thoughts. So let me ask you, how much would we need to have in the bank so we could scale way back on work?” “Do you mean I would sell the orchard and the ing firm?” “Only if you want to, and I would sell Tri-X,” he said with a questioning look. “Max, that’s a huge question. There are so many variables, but it is a challenge I’ll work on for a while. Do we want to just live on the savings, and have nothing to leave to our kids?” She shook her head. “Maybe it will take my mind off the wedding.” While they were still discussing that challenge, his 1:00 appointment arrived with a master to turn into 3-D. When the courier was gone, Max said, “Just think, that’s more than I earned in a month at Metro, and I have a guy coming in a couple hours with eight more masters.” “Abundance is part of the problem, isn’t it?” she said with a shy smile. “I don’t want you to take me home yet. May I read some of the George Fox college requests?” “I’ll see what I can do for Mr. Dawson, then.” He noticed that the email to Western Powers had a bounce-back as undeliverable.

Stephaney Powers

I n the morning, he was just getting ready for church when his phone rang. Max thought it would be Sarah, but caller ID indicated a California number. “Good morning, this is Max.” A hysterical woman’s voice shrieked, “Max, what have you done to me?” “I’m sorry, I can’t understand you. What…” “Max, what did you do to my computers?” Now the voice was more of a sob. “Please tell me who you are, and how I can help you.” Max was completely confused. “It’s Stephaney Powers, you dweeb, and you can fix my computers.” That he understood. “Stephaney, I saw that you tried to me yesterday morning just after eleven. I returned your email, but got a bounce back just after one. I don’t know anything about your trouble.” Max voice was soft and calm. “Max, I don’t use the computer. I have people to do that. I didn’t send you anything yesterday.” Her voice was a bit more under control. Max asked for more information, saying, “Stephaney, tell me what you see on your computer.” He thought he could help diagnose the problem. The hysteria returned. “There is nothing on my computer you dumb ass. All seven of them are dark, and dead. The technician I’ve had working on them all night says that there is nothing he can do. Even our server, with all of our information is dead. What the hell did you do?” The pitch of her voice was higher and louder. “Stephaney, you said you don’t use the computer, so ask whoever does use it if they tried to hack into mine. If they did manage to get in, did they try to steal my

file named ‘3D’?” He could hear voices in the background becoming more excited. The conversation was quite heated. “Max, you are right. A butt that used to work here, until one minute ago, tried to hack your computer. He thought he could be a hero. Now turn off whatever you turned on down here. Fix the damned thing!” Hysterics were returning “Stephaney, listen. It’s not something I did. I can’t fix it” Max was trying to be the very calm one. “O.K. Max, you made the mess, now what do you want to fix it?” Now her voice was exasperated and impatient. “I’m sorry for you, Stephaney. I’m not an extortionist. My major work is with the FBI. They put a file mine on my computer for just this sort of protection. I can tell you that whoever hacked me from your office, took malware that has made your computers and server irreparable unless they are returned to the factory technicians, and whatever information there was on them, clear down to the bone, is completely irretrievable. It’s gone.” There was no response. She had hung up. He called Sarah to invite her to come over and watch the worship service from Mountaintop with him. There was more news for them to talk about. A light snow covered the hill Sunday night. It wasn’t a serious challenge, more of an inconvenience. The blacktop was laid on the driveway and parking area as scheduled. But the snow was enough, however, to cause the Home and Garden crew to postpone for a few days. By Tuesday it was raining, turning everything slushy. Wednesday afternoon a knock on his door startled Max. He was shocked when he opened the door to Stephaney Powers and her legal representation. After the surprise greetings, she said, “Max you may be the most brilliant man I know, and the most decent.” Before he could answer she went on, “or you may be a lying creep. I found the culprit on my staff that has been playing free and loose with our computers. He is going to jail if you will allow my witness here, J. J. Hadley, to look at your computer web cache. Then I’ll be able to see how trustworthy you might be. I promise there will be no intrusion of your privacy, nor any attempt to look at closed files. I simply want to validate what you told me over the phone. By the way, your home is far more elegant than I expected. It

shouldn’t surprise me because everything about you has been a delightful discovery.” Max thanked her and led them into the room with Michael. “This is the FBI computer.” He opened the recent file log and they could clearly see that no email had ever happened with Western Powers. Then they went into the office where they could examine the other two computers. The same thing was true for Max’s old computer, now dedicated to George Fox College. There was no email history with Western Powers. “All of these are requests for scholarship information?” Stephaney asked in awe. Max explained that this was the origin of the Tri-X reveal and the YouTube sound bite. Then he opened Tri-X and pointed to the Saturday morning from Western Powers with no message, and his attempted response which was undeliverable. She could also see the several exchanges they had previous to Saturday morning. There was also a ton of other agencies s. It was just as Max had said. Mr. Hadley had seen enough. Charges would be filed in San Francisco. “Max, can you explain the malware that took us out of business Saturday?” He was grateful that the hysteria was gone from Stephaney’s voice. “The easy explanation is that this virus attacks the computer’s functional brain. Computers rely on code and operational commands and instructions. As some of the basics are deleted, it’s like a card castle tumbling down. When they are all deleted, you are left with a pretty pile of junk.” “If you weren’t so damned likeable, I’d be really pissed at you, Max,” she said but no longer angrily. “We’re not out of business, only delayed for a day or two, and we did find a huge liability because of you. So, how are you going to make it up to us? Do you have some compensation for me?” “Well, I guess I can take you off the ‘No Fly’ list. But you remain on the ‘Known Hacker’ list, and I’m not sure I will ever do business again with such a reckless outfit.” He chuckled to make sure she wasn’t offended. “I’m having a whole new computer system installed today, thanks to you. Can you put a, did you call it ‘file mine,’ on it for me?”

“Nope,” he shook his head, “that’s a Department of Justice tool,” he lied. “It’s sort of like having a hand grenade on file. If a hacker tries to open it, the pin is pulled.” “You make it sound almost fun,” she said, “but not quite.” She moved away from the computer. “I know your time is valuable, and I wasn’t thoughtful enough to make an appointment.” Stephaney was an absolutely lovely lady, when she wasn’t angry. “Could I ask for one more courtesy, Max? Would you show me what sort of scheduling list you have currently for Tri-X? This isn’t blind jealousy. I’m trying to figure out if you are truly as honest as you have led me to believe. How many applications did you do last week, and how many more do you have on the calendar?” Her pretty face hid any guile, if there was some behind the question. Max opened his desktop calendar showing that the preceding week had 63 applications, and currently over seventy were scheduled for the coming week. It helped when couriers brought multiple masters. “I believe I will average between seventy and eighty a week, and when the rest of the country signs in, it will double or triple. It is easy for west coast travel. I’m not sure how the distance will affect the numbers.” “ Max,” she chuckled, “I have agencies all over the country. I can install for you, for a cut.” “No thanks, Mama Hacker. I need to keep careful control of this technology, and the quality of work. That’s why demand is at a feeding frenzy right now, and for the foreseeable future. Supply is limited and carefully guarded.” “I suppose that means you’re not interested in a partnership for say, forty million?” Without a hesitation, Max replied, “That’s just the same question with a bit of lipstick on it. No, I’m not interested in a partnership.” Max was not discourteous, but he didn’t want to appear humorous either. She offered her hand saying, “Thank you for your time. I’m very impressed by you Max. We’ll go home and work on some numbers that will interest you. We just need to find them.” Mr. Hadley shook his hand. He hadn’t said a word

during the visit. On Thursday, Cascade Construction began digging the trench in the basement for the sewer line. On Friday the Home and Garden folks returned. Ronnie brought the second truck load of trees, and Hank repositioned the last of the boulders By Saturday evening Max had applied Tri-X 78 times for the week, just two short of two million dollars. It was time to transfer another quantity of money to his Swiss .

Mountaintop worship

M ax picked Sarah up for church early enough to drive over to Bret’s for a couple who seemed happier and happier. Sarah thought they seemed softer and softer together. They arrived early enough to get a brief tour of the church facility, during which Max and Sarah were greeted repeated by young couples who said, “See you in the barn!” and laughed. Sarah explained, “They are delighted we will be married in the orchard barn.” Bret grinned, “This is more friendly than any church I’ve ever been in.” Slowly the church filled, the choir took their place and the organist played some very beautiful familiar music. It was time for worship. A young man stepped to the front of the platform and said, “Good morning friends! Good morning to the Community Center, and those of you in the narthex. Good morning to you who have ed us on line. I wish I could wear fuzzy slippers to church. Now you have been greeted, will you stand and it along? Greet those who are standing near you. Some are here for the first time. Make sure they feel wanted and welcomed.” The room filled with happy sounds of greeting. After a minute of that sound, he asked folks to bow with him in prayer. “Joyful Lord Jesus we thank you for meeting us here. We know it is no accident that we are here, and believe that you have something wonderful for us this hour. We come to you with open hearts and minds in Jesus’ awesome name. Amen.” He gestured for the congregation to be seated. But the choir remained standing. A brushed drum. piano and saxophone began a familiar tune to a swing beat. “Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!” The choir was swaying to the rhythm. “Thou art the potter, I am the clay. Mold me and make me after thy will, while I am waiting, yielded and still.” The director turned toward the congregation and invited them to stand and in the singing. “Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!” The congregation had the sway going too. “Search me and try me, Savior today! Wash me just now, Lord wash me just now, as in thy presence humbly I bow.” The pipe organ ed the

accompaniment, gaining strength. “Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way! Wounded and weary, help me I pray.” All four of them thought of Liz’s gentle recovery. “Power, all power, surely is thine! Touch me and heal me, Savior divine!” The choir began to clap the rhythm. “Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way! Hold o’er my being absolute sway. Fill with thy Spirit till all shall see Christ only, always, living in me!” The director invited folks to be seated. Pastor Scott asked the congregation to bow in prayer. He must have prepared it carefully because he would pray for those in discomfort, and the choir would sing, “Jesu, Jesu fill us with your love, show us how to serve the neighbors we have from you.” He prayed for the folks whose homes had been devastated by storms, and once again the choir sang. He prayed for kids on the street, for families in distress, for those who suffered because of prejudice, and the choir sang. Finally he prayed for those who do not know the hope-lifting, futurechanging love of God, and everyone sang with the choir, “Jesu, Jesu fill us with your love, show us how to serve the neighbors we have from you.” “Amen,” the pastor said. “Amen.” The young man stepped to the microphone and announced the Scripture lesson. “You’ll find a Bible there in the pew, if you’d like to follow along with the reading. Luke 5 verses 12 through 16 are found on page 969.” He paused while there was a bit of shuffling the pages, then he began to read: “While he (meaning Jesus) was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy; and when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and besought him, ‘Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.’ And he stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, ‘I will; be clean.’ And immediately the leprosy left him. And he charged him to tell no one; but ‘go and show yourself to the priest, and make offering for your cleansing, as Moses commanded, for a proof to the people.’ But so much the more the report went abroad concerning him; and great multitudes gathered to hear and be healed of their infirmities. But he withdrew to the wilderness and prayed.” The congregation was invited to stand and sing together, “Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me;” Max smiled because while Bret didn’t have a very musical voice, he certainly had a strong one. He was using it to sing a song he knew. “let there be peace on earth, the peace that was meant to be. With God our creator, children all are we. Let us walk with each other,” Bret glanced at Liz. “in perfect harmony. Let peace begin with me; let this be the moment now. With every step I take, let this be my solemn vow: to take each moment and live

each moment in peace eternally. Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” As they were seated, Sarah nudged Max to draw attention to the tears on Bret’s face. The Pastor prayed a brief prayer, then began his homily. “There was a man who made a terrifying discovery. He was shocked and stunned. At first he could not believe what he had seen. He knew it happened to other people. He could not believe it would ever happen to him. The awful discovery kept him awake at night. When he did sleep, he would have alarming dreams, and awaken in the darkness, choking with anxiety and dread. Again and again in the darkness, as his mind cleared, he would have to face the frightening reality. The nightmare was true. This terrible thing was actually happening to him! He could not imagine or pretend it away. “His wife noticed. His friends noticed. He looked haggard, worn and hollowedeyed. “He knew what he had to do. He had to make a journey. It was all so strange, so mysterious. He told his family he would be gone a few days. His wife and children were not to worry. He would return. Everything would be all right. “The long, lonely journey began. The family waved goodbye. The man turned away: his eyes filled with tears. He walked alone, carrying in his heart the knowledge of the terrible discovery. “Finally he reached the city. He went to a certain room which was part of a great building called the Temple. He met a man he had never seen before – a priest. The frightened man described the awful discovery; then he showed the priest the white spots on his leg and arms. The priest shook his head slowly. He had seen the spots before. He noticed the body hair on the spots was also white. He was careful now not to touch the man. “The priest’s eyes narrowed. His jaw was set. “I declare before God that you are now unclean. God’s Word says, ‘The leper who has the disease shall wear torn clothes and let the hair of his head hang loose, and he shall cover his upper lip and cry, ‘unclean! ‘unclean!’ He shall remain unclean as long as he has the disease. He shall dwell alone in a habitation outside the camp. ‘May God have mercy upon you.’ The priest left the room, and the man was alone. Stunned, tears

ran down his cheeks. His body crumpled, and he sobbed. “He knew what it meant. He could no longer hold his children in his arms. He could no longer embrace his wife. He could no long give or receive the handclasp of a friend. He could no longer worship in the synagogue nor earn a living at his trade. What would become of his family? They would be desolate. “Slowly he began to tear his clothes so they looked like ragged shreds. He took his hand and messed his hair up until it was wild and unkempt. Shuffling, he stepped out into the street, his shoulders sagging. He put his hand over his mouth and cried, ‘Unclean! Unclean!’ For the first time in his life he saw people afraid of him. They stepped back. They looked at him with disgust, with loathing. Parents grabbed their children, carrying them to safety. ‘Unclean! Unclean!’ His voice echoed through the streets. The way out of the city opened to him. He was utterly alone, cursed to huddle with those who shared the disease and waited for death. “All this is by way of background for our morning’s text from Luke’s gospel which begins with the words, ’while he was in one of the cities, there came a man, full of leprosy…’ Focus with me upon that phrase – ‘there came a man full of leprosy…’ “I want to suggest first of all that the phrase gives us a clue to understanding ourselves and others. Full of leprosy… full of problems, of ugliness of loathsomeness, which if revealed would repel people. “You might want to say’ Chill out Scott, That’s a bit strong, don’t you think? Or you might just say, I’m glad you’re talking about that because a lot of folks I know struggle with that. But me? I’m fine. No problems. I don’t feel like a leper, I’m great. “That’s your rational conscious mind defending itself, just maintaining its appearance of health. We know there is a deeper conversation going on within you. Chances are you have an inner leper roaming around in the shadow part of you crying, ‘Unclean, Unclean!’ He or she is that poor, ragged, bedraggled, ugly twisted figure that we want kept alone in a habitation outside the camp. “I also believe I am safe in saying that rather recently someone has addressed you like the priest in that little room. Someone has sent a message with burning narrow eyes and a judgmental set to the jaw. You could almost feel them backing

away saying, You’re a loser! You’re disgusting. You’re ugly, or old, or wrong. You’re a failure.’ The inner leper believes the verdict, forever defective, forever doomed. No hope at all!’ “That’s modern leprosy. It happens all the time to children – to abused children, abandoned children, children with handicapping conditions. Many of you saw last week’s article about the overnight survey taken in downtown Portland. Nearly a thousand teenagers were found living on the streets, under bridges, or in abandoned buildings. Many of them are addicts, pan handlers, or prostitutes. There came a child full of leprosy.’ “It happens to youth. Each week when I visit the detention center I see them, young people who were born with bright promise, but because of the poverty of their home, the lack of parenting skills to nurture and encourage, motivate to teach the child, they were handed off to others. There was a teacher too busy to do more than give lessons, a coach who had better athletes to train, there were people who offered corruption and deception. There came a youth full of leprosy “It happens to young married people who may have been swept up by romance and were ill prepared for the challenges of marriage. She got a small employment to get him through school, then children come along and her dreams are discarded. They drift apart, now that he has a good job. Finally after the divorce she is struggling to care for the children, living on welfare, fighting depression. There came a divorcee full of leprosy “It seems to me that it means to be a follower of Jesus, is to find and care for lepers. Luke tells us, ‘There came a man full of leprosy.’ This man is a symbol of the pain, the loneliness, the despair, the disease that is out in the world. He is the prisoner in Oregon Correction; he is the old man or woman in the nursing home, the mentally challenged child, the person who was used and abandoned last night. Full of leprosy, running over with despair, hopelessness, weighted down with guilt. “Notice with me the turning point in our story. Just a few words make it clear…’And when he saw Jesus… When the people of Nazareth saw Jesus, they saw only a man, only the carpenter - Joseph’s son, whom they had known for decades. When the leper saw Jesus, he saw so much more. He saw someone who cared. He saw someone who could help. He looked at Jesus and saw beyond his old problems to the new possibilities of a new creation, new health. He saw the

impossibilities banished. That is the picture that gave him such boldness as he ran forward and said, ‘Lord, if you will, you can make me clean… You can make me clean!’ Now I have to ask myself at this point, ‘How do I see Jesus, really?’ Do I see him as the remote and distant figure like a great fading painting? Do I see him as the object of years of theological and Biblical study with tons of lectures and papers? Have my years of knowledge about Jesus left me disinterested like the Nazareth neighbors? Do I assume I already know all there is to know about him? Have I confused him with the Jerusalem priest? Is it possible that I, a 21st century pastor of a great church, can find healing for my needs? Can I see in the face of Jesus, one who cares about me? ‘Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.’ “And he stretched out his hand, and he touched him, saying, ‘I will; be clean.’ I can’t overestimate the importance of that touch. You see, everyone knew the contaminating power of leprosy. If you touched a leper, you were unclean. You were contaminated if a leper touched you. Parents warned their children to never do that or allow it to happen. ‘You’ll be unclean!’ “Now Jesus reaches out. He touches the leper. Here is a struggle; which power is greater? Which force is stronger? Will Jesus become a leper, or will the leper be healed? “This is why our text has such a shout of victory. It is Jesus Christ who speaks. Leprosy has been saying, “Be sick; be lonely; be forsaken; be discouraged.’ Now there is a greater voice saying, ‘Be clean!’ And immediately the leprosy left him. It got replaced by a greater power – the healing, saving love of God. “Now the sequel to the story sounds strange to our ears. Stay with me for just a bit longer. ‘And he charged him to tell no one; but go and show yourself to the priest, and make an offering for your cleansing, as Moses commanded for a proof to the people.’ “Jesus tells the man to follow the law in claiming his healing. His excited witness is to be withheld until the priest’s verification, and the gratitude offering for healing is made.

“You witnessed the sad way this man left the temple, now see him hurrying back. His steps had been labored, now they are springy and light. Now his journey is one of victory and Joy. If you want to read the entire process of examination you can find it in Leviticus 14. Basically he had to offer two doves, one of which was sacrificed and the blood sprinkled on him; the other is set free. The priest examines him closely. When no leprosy is found the man bathes, washes his clothes and shaves all the hair from his head, even his eyebrows. Then he waits for eight days. Can you imagine his eagerness? Once again there is a sacrifice, this time a lamb. The priest takes some of the blood and touches the man’s right ear, right thumb, and right big toe. Oil is sprinkled over his head seven times and he is pronounced healed. The priest says, ‘Go, you are clean.’ “Can you imagine the jubilant reunion as he embraces his wife, twirls around with his children in his arms as they squeal, ‘Abba! Abba! Daddy, Daddy! He may look like a peeled onion, but he has discovered the power of healing hope. “He has a healed attitude of trust. The great mission of Jesus is to bring us a new attitude toward God. He reveals God as a forgiving father. He reveals God as the One who heals, forgives and encourages us. On the cross, he reveals God as the one who suffers and dies for us. In the resurrection he reveals God as the one who is victorious over sin and death, and offers us the same victory. At Pentecost he revels that God is present, with us in power, and that we can know him here and now. “That new attitude is expressed outwardly as the man runs back to his home He offers a joyous outburst of worship. Many folks have a laborious notion of “worship, but you won’t find that in the power of healing hope. Listen to the Psalms: “It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to thy name O Most High”; or even more direct: “Praise the Lord! Let everything that has breath, praise the Lord!” “God is building within us a new positive enthusiastic attitude toward his presence with us as Creator Father, as Jesus our Lord, and as the Holy Spirit. That is a life-giving hope-lifting attitude which brings wholeness and new strength, and worship is its expression. “Thirdly, Jesus is creating within us a new attitude of eagerness toward his word. We are coming to see the Scriptures not as ancient texts and s, but rather life lessons that introduce fresh sources of energy and direction for our lives. We

see the church as a vital part of our community of mercy. We sense an increasingly positive enthusiastic attitude toward scripture, which helps us see God working and transforming many new expressions of attitude of relationship. “Perhaps the most dear relationship we have is that of family. We are taking family commitments with a new seriousness, and increasing priority to the of each household. He is teaching us that we can care personally and directly. The healing of forgiveness, reconciliation, and empowerment happens in a family that has discovered the power of healing hope.’ “Finally, God is giving us a new attitude toward our world. He is teaching us to care about hurting, hungry, frightened people wherever they might be. He s teaching us that the lost people really want to be found, hungry people really want to be fed, hurting people really do want to be healed. “Let me close with a story I read about an orphanage in Pennsylvania where an eight year old girl resided. She was unattractive physically, isolated emotionally. She had come from a home where she had been abused, so there were some behavioral problems too. The superintendent overreacted to her. When another child reported that she had seen this girl writing notes to someone outside the institution, the superintendent was very suspicious. He said, “The next time you see her doing this, come and tell me.” The child came a few days later to report another note had been written and hidden in a tree near the wall. The superintendent called one of his assistants and said, ‘Show me where she left the note.” “Well when they found the note, the superintendent pounced on it. When he read the few words he hung his head and silently handed it to his assistant. The note simply read, ‘To whoever finds this, I love you.” “God in his great mercy sends us out to find all the lonely, frightened people, all those struggling with guilt or shame, all of those who are outcasts, that we might introduce them to the power of healing hope, to One to whom they can earnestly say, ‘Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” And he answers, “Be clean. I love you.” Pastor Scott invited folks in a tender prayer, then the music director invited the congregation to stand and sing a familiar hymn. The fellows especially liked the refrain: “He touched me, O he touched me, and o the joy that floods my soul!

Something happened, and now I know he touched me and made me whole.”

It took Bret a couple minutes to dry his eyes and regain composure. Finally he said the idea of standing around having coffee was less than inviting to him, but if Max knew of a restaurant that served brunch, he would be all over that. “In fact,” Max said with his big grin, “Lynnie’s on 23rd is famous for their Sunday brunch. I’ll give them a call and see if they can save us a table.” He caught Sarah’s glance and happy smile.

Bret and Liz Brunch

O nce they were seated and served coffee and tea, Bret was very interested in his cup, but Liz reached for Sarah’s hand saying gently, “Sweet lady, this has been an extraordinary month. You have shared your home with us, and helped us see that life is more than the trash we’ve been working with. You even ed our folks.” Her chin quivered and a tear formed in her eyes. “Both my mom and my sisters have ed me. I talked to mom for over an hour on the phone. Thanks to you.” She gave a gentle and affectionate squeeze, Bret leaned toward her and added, “And my daughter has sent me two letters, and I even got a note from Paul. I am so grateful to be in touch with them.” When their plates were served and then emptied, Liz finally brought up the subject they had been waiting for. “Max, I believe I owe you an apology.” When he looked at her she said with a smile, “Oh, for more than the Tazer thing. When I first met you I thought you were just a naïve kid. Then I saw you as an innocent young man. Now I see a depth of you that I didn’t understand. You’re smart. brave, and in control of your world. I ire that, and want my life to have the same stuff. I thought I was a loner, but you let me see I was just lonely. You opened the door for us to see something really nice. I apologize for so underestimating you.” She held out her hand. Instead of a handshake, Max came around the table and knelt beside her so they could share a hug. As he returned to his chair he asked, “So guys, what’s going to happen next month? Are you going to talk to Mr. Dawson?” Liz answered first, “I have a couple months of vacation saved up, so my recuperation is going to be extended.” Her smile was almost girlishly shy. “During that time I’m going to continue a conversation with the folks at Portland U. They have a pretty good Criminology department. I can do some part time teaching while I finish a Master’s degree.” Bret was a bit more obvious. “I checked in with Portland PD about a Detective position. I could go to work tonight on the swing shift, but I’m holding out for a day job. Fourteen years with the agency looks awfully good on a resume. I still

haven’t looked into some of the smaller departments nearby. We just know we want to be together,” he paused thinking how to say the next sentence, “and how to stay close to you guys. You’re like the family I always wanted.” The bill came and Bret reached for it, but Max put his hand on it. “I’ll give you two reasons why I get to take care of this,” he said to Bret and Liz. “You paid last time at the Olive Garden, and in the last week Cyber Solutions has pulled in two million bucks!” He made a surprise face. “It has exploded like a rocket.” Sarah asked, “Do you want to come here again next week after church, or would you like to meet my favorite deli?” Who could imagine a more perfect morning?

Stephaney Powers sent an email on Wednesday, asking Max if he had another full week. “How many applications are you doing this week, Max?” she inquired. “I would like to invite you to come back to the city by the bay next Saturday, My legal team would like to make a proposal.” S. Powers He replied immediately.” That’s very gracious of you Stephaney. Regrettably I must decline with appointments Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. I have 83 booked for this week. Thank you for your generous business, 14 of them are Western Powers applications.” Gratefully, M. Wall. Her insistent reply indicated she had serious business. “Max, may I come to Portland next Sunday afternoon with my legal team. We have an offer I believe will be of interest to you. Does 3 p.m. fit into your calendar? I’ll see you then.” S. Powers Max picked Sarah up for fish and chips at Long John Silver. He had a lot to talk about, and valued her wisdom. “But I’m not sure I want to sell Tri-X, he said with a sigh. “I think it is the most complicated and innovative thing I could ever do.” He was stewing in his own juice. “But if she doesn’t offer much, I’m better off keeping it and generating eight million a month. Can you imagine that? Why would I want to sell it?” Sarah added to his muddle, “It’s so new, you haven’t gotten over the shock of how marvelous it really is. Have you thought of a number? “No,” Max sighed, “because if I do that I have given myself some parameter to

go ahead with the sale. It’s worth a great deal, but on the other hand if I sold it we would have enough to travel, be comfortable, and be home to raise a family.” He was pretty sure those words melted Sarah’s heart. “I just don’t know what to do, and I have been praying about it, a lot.” “May I attend the meeting as your ant? My calculator might come in handy.” Her smile was gentle because she already knew his answer. “I definitely want you there,” Max said firmly. “You are my com, my true direction. It’s your future too. This might be a milestone opportunity.” Max was still wrestling on both sides of the fence. On Friday, Ronnie was ready to finish the landscaping by planting the Azaleas, Rhododendrons, and Hydrangea around the house. But John asked if they could postpone for a week or two because the scaffolding for the new windows would be very hard on the plantings, and new doors on at least two sides would take out quite a bit of space. Late Saturday night Max’s phone rang, startling him out of a sound sleep. An anguished voice said, “Mr. Wall, this is Jeff Cobb. I really need help. I’ve been busted up and robbed. Do you think you could help me get to the hospital?” “Jeff, call 911,” Max advised. “But we were doing drugs. They came here to buy, then the party started, then the fight. Then they either smashed or stole everything I have. They cleaned me out. I’m afraid if I call the police, I’ll wind up in jail. Can you help me, please?” Max was trying to think of any excuse to avoid what would be a lengthy chore, but all he could think of was Pastor Scott saying, “there came a man full of leprosy.” “I’ll be right there, and I might get some help to find your stuff.” He hung up and called Bret, filling him in on the details. “You want to help that low-life, Max?” his big friend asked. “Not much, but you heard the same sermon I did last Sunday. I hate to tell you, but I’m pretty sure the Christ who loves us, loves Mr. Low-life too. Yeah, we’ve got to do this thing.” Bret said he would meet him there. Max got there first, and was trying to stem the bleeding from three nasty, but not

life threatening, stab wounds when Bret arrived. “Oh fuck me!” Jeff moaned. “No day can be this shitty!” Looking at Bret he pleaded, “I haven’t seen her, talked to her, gone anywhere even close. Honest!” He was working himself into a pit. “Just take out your damned gun and shoot me. Or give it to me and I’ll save you the trouble.” He almost looked comical with a big bandage over his tattered ear. “Oh shut up, Whiner. Isn’t it ironic that the two men in Portland who would most like to see you squashed like a bug, are the only ones who will come to help you live through this night? Now give me some names before you out.” They found a dirty comforter in the bedroom that would keep the blood off the leather seats of the BMW. Bret said he would make a couple stops and catch up at Legacy Good Samaritan Hospital, which was the closest. Two orderlies helped Max get Jeff out of the car and onto a gurney. As per Bret’s assessment, the victim had ed out on the way. Max called Terry to share the news that Jeff was badly injured and in the emergency room of Legacy hospital. “No sir, he called me. He didn’t want to get the police involved because there had been some drug use.” “No sir, he said that these were his friends that did this to him.” “Yes sir. One of my colleagues, an FBI agent, is trying to locate his truck right now.” “Yes sir, they smashed or stole everything of value in the house, even his wallet and cell phone are gone.” “I don’t know anything about that. This is the first time I’ve seen or talked with Jeff since the beginning of the renovation.” “That’s true. We seem to have surprising resources.” “No, I can’t stay. I need to get some sleep tonight, I have some important business clients coming in from San Francisco.” “You’re welcome. I’ll look in on him later, and see you on the job one of these days.”

The first house Bret visited was standing wide open. He could hear men’s voices coming from the back. He followed a hallway and listened as they hooted and laughed. One of them would mention a particular moment at Jeff’s expense, and the others would giggle and hoot. Apparently one of them had Jeff’s wallet and was complaining there wasn’t more cash in it. Bret stepped into the room, which was suddenly silent. He held out his hand, saying, “I’ll take that. All five of you are under arrest. Lie down!”

The nearest one to him said, “Kiss my ass!” He charged, intent on delivering a punch. Bret’s first blow caught him before he had a chance, then a second haymaker turned out the man’s lights. His unconscious body slumped to the floor. Two more charged. One was dropped by a kick to his liver. And the other was clubbed by a straight blow to the chin. The other two sat down with their hands on their heads. Bret used wire ties to fasten their hands securely behind their backs. He called Portland PD to assist with the arrests. The second house was also fully lighted, and loud music was pulsating from it. Bret recognized Jeff’s pickup from the description. He knocked on the door and a scruffy young man opened the door saying, “Come on in. She’s down the hall, second room on the right. She’s all juiced up for you. Give me the fifty and you’re good to go.” Bret started to walk past him, and the guy growled, “Hey Dude, pay and then play. Give me the fifty!” Bret took one more step as the man grabbed his left arm. A swirling reversal allowed Bret to grasp the man’s arm with one hand while his right delivered a powerful punch to the side of his face. Bret was sure his jaw was broken. He once again used wire ties to secure the unconscious man, then called for Portland PD Vice to come raid a house of prostitution. When Bret called Max, He learned that his friend was almost home, and eager for a very few hours sleep. But he was assured that Max would be there to pick them up for church. He could count on that.

Sale!

A fter church, Max asked Bret to hang out with them at 3:00. He said, “Bret, I don’t know what to expect. She said she was bringing her legal team, so I don’t have a clue how many that might be. I don’t believe she would dare try to steal the technology, but she has been pretty pushy. Will you just be there in case?” Even though Sarah was expecting it, she still gave a startled jump when the doorbell rang. She opened it to a crowd. Stephaney had brought five attorneys with her. Max made the introductions. “Stephaney, this is Sarah, my ant, and fiancé, and this is Bret Franklin, Urban Response agent for the FBI, and a personal friend.” She realized that Max had provided himself with security, which forebode a lack of trust. “These gentlemen all have names, I don’t recall. They are each representing a different investor who collectively believe you have invented the golden goose, You know I am here to make you an offer. By the way have you had any more applications today?” “Yup.” Max said casually. “after church Mr. Vaughn had a courier here for a promotion that begins tomorrow. For two applications he paid $70K. I don’t know if that should count on last week’s total, or give a kick-start to next week.” “Are you getting new people, or just more business from us?” “There are four new agents requesting applications. They all are from new agencies. The word is spreading.” His enthusiasm didn’t seem to be contagious. “Would anyone like a glass of wine, a soda or a beer?” Bret raised his hand and Stephaney glimpsed the shoulder holster under his jacket. Max wasn’t fooling around. “O.K. Max,” Stephaney switched into a more aggressive mode, “What will it take to get Tri-X into our barn? Will you accept 75 million for it?”

“Friend, I don’t want to insult you, and I’m sorry you are choosing to do that to me. Currently your four ad agencies are ranked 18th in the nation’s rs. If you should happen to acquire this, we both know that with a monopoly on the technology you would be miles ahead of whoever is number two. Secondly, you have asked me repeatedly how many applications I’m doing each week, and I have honestly told you. Tri-X is currently doing about 80 per week. At $25K each that comes out at what Sweetie?” he looked at Sarah, “Two million dollars even,” she replied as though she had been prepared for the question. “Times four weeks is eight million per month. Honey, what is 12 times eight?” Quietly Sarah said, “Ninety six million.” Stephaney, you have not grasped the power of this technology to come in here and insult me. I’m making nearly a hundred million dollars this year alone, and you think I’m interested in selling it to you for three quarters of that? Go home lady! You were 18th before this technology, watch the pack you. We are done here.” “Max, be fair,” she said in a nearly pleading voice. “You are counting fish that haven’t been caught, and most of the work you have been doing for the past three weeks is from me. Let’s be more realistic about what this is worth. I’ll raise the offer to a hundred million dollars. But there is a lot of blue sky in that because you are so cute.” Bret could hardly believe these last few minutes. Max was not a wimp or a pushover. He had just told Stephaney and her entourage to go home. He took a deep pull on his beer. Max looked at Sarah and said, “I don’t get it. She seems not to understand what I’m saying.” Then turning to Stephaney, he said, “O.K. Stephaney, I’ll sell it to you for that… next October, when I have had a chance to earn some capital on it and introduce it to some folks who are truly interested. Thanks for stopping by. I hope the next time you are in town you’ll give me a little more warning and we can go out for pizza.” He stood up. “O.K. wait Max.” Her voice trembled and it looked like a tear was in her eye. “The offer is one hundred fifty million paid over ten years.”

“Stephaney I didn’t get much sleep last night,” Max sat back down, “neither did my quiet friend. I would much rather be taking a nap right now than play fishmonger games with you. I guess you are just so used to folks falling down before you that you don’t listen. I’m going to say it one time only. I’m not an auctioneer. You know I am telling you the truth and you are farting around with games. The price for Tri-X is three hundred million dollars. If you want to break that into payments it will be half down and an annual one percent interest will accrue on the unpaid balance.” Stephaney was about to burst, but before she said anything, Max said, “Carefully weigh your next words, Stephaney. We are no longer sparring. Do you know the term sine qua non? It means ‘an indispensible condition’. You have one, just one more offer. It’s either up, or down. I’m tired of playing your little game.” The air in the room became suddenly thin and still. “Perhaps you and these gentlemen should take a break,” he said. “Go get something to eat or drink. Perhaps you should go back to San Francisco to add up some numbers. Tuesday I am flying to Chicago to present Tri-X to a new group of agents.” The awful truth that Stephaney understood was every word he had spoken was true. Powers could be the number one ad agency in the country, and if the folks in Chicago got hold of Tri-X, Powers would be lost in the shuffle. Sarah glanced at Max, then Bret, There was a deep stillness. Max sighed heavily and got up, heading for the door. Stephaney knew that he was not bluffing. “For crying out loud,” she thought, “didn’t he know how to play the game?” “Wait Max, I accept that price. You didn’t give me a chance.” Looking at the attorneys she ask, “Gentlemen, are you in agreement?” They nodded in unison. “Tell me where we should wire the money, Max. We won’t need to do the payment plan. May we take the technology with us?” Max was surprised. “Did you bring the three hundred million with you?” “Actually we did, Max, and a little more just in case. Tell us where we should wire the funds.” “Zürich’s Edmond de Rothschild Bank, Max Wall, 2433437. When I receive confirmation, I can give you discs and developmental blueprints of the

technology. It is not on any of my computers for security.” One of her legal team opened his I-Pad and began inserting the address. Stephaney said, “Max, I really like you. If you were a decade older I’d take a run at having you as my next husband.” She gave a quiet apology to Sarah, “No offense.” “But Max, I have to tell you, you suck at negotiation. We were looking forward to several hours of back and forth to get here. You know, I would have gone higher.” Now that characteristic grin spread across Max’s face. “Steph,” he used a name she hadn’t heard since she was a little girl, “I would have settled for a little less. You have a monopoly control of a very unique technology. I have no doubt you are going to rock the advertising world. But I am not the only crayon in the programmer’s box. The moment I put that sound bite on YouTube, a host of brilliant people knew how high the bar has been set. I’m guessing you have eighteen months to two years before that technology is duplicated, or sured. I may suck at negotiation, but I’m pretty sure I have a solid grasp on innovation. I hope you use it well.” The man with the I-Pad nodded that the transfer had been made. Max went in to check the confirmation. It was there, so he immediately changed his . He brought a cardboard box out of the computer room It held several discs, two notebooks with developmental history and process, and the hard drive upon which he had made the innovation, When Stephaney saw him set the box down she said, “A cardboard box, really Max? Is this your way of having the last laugh?” She directed the five men to use their briefcases to transport the items. Max warned her, “This is the master, and the only two copies for safety. You know to treat them like gold.” He handed her the technology that had changed his life. They simply shook hands and she left, taking with her what she had intended all the time. The three stood quietly, looking at each other. Finally Bret said, “Damn Max!” Sarah said, “Oh my goodness, Honey, you sold it!” Max said, with an enormous grin, “Yeah, for three…hundred…million…dollars!” He gave Sarah a big hug, and Bret a hardy handshake, and then a hug. “Let’s call Liz and see if she will go out to the Chart House with us, I really need to celebrate!”

Within the hour, the four were seated at a lovely window table. There was just enough twilight left to see the distant mountains and enough dusk to see the beautiful lights of the city below them. Bret and Liz ordered wine, and when Max asked the server if they could fix a summer cooler, he was informed that they called it a ‘wine flip’ Bret was still replaying the afternoon. “She kept lowballing Max, and he insulted her right back. Then she would play hurt, and almost cry but still offer nearly nothing, and he would tell her to go home. When he said, three hundred million I about croaked. I can’t believe I witnessed that whole thing.” Sarah said, “Max, I was getting pretty mad at you. She is a gorgeous lady who flew up from San Francisco just to negotiate with you, and you were acting creepy to her.” Max said, “Yeah, she said I suck at negotiation. How come I walked away with 30% more than my target goal? Chalk one up for the little guy!” Bret said again, “It was unreal. You are definitely not a little guy. I can’t believe I witnessed that whole thing.” Max said, “While it was going on, I tried to think of other stuff so I wouldn’t get all tangled up in her emotions. I had a great thought. The old house is going to be finished just about the time that Liz runs out of vacation time. I don’t want to go through the trouble of selling the condo. You know, it’s as much yours as it is mine; why don’t I just give it to you two. It’s a nice place to call home.” Bret said, “Max you can’t do that. I can buy it from you, how much is it worth?” Max answered, “I’ll bet an appraisal would scare the pants off of us both, but if you insist, I will take what I paid for it, one dollar. , I suck at negotiations. I’d take it if I were you. If you need furniture to fill it, a lady named Gwen has been helping Sarah. She said she can find real treasures at the consignment stores.” Liz reached for Max’s hand saying, “Every time I’m with you two, I’m introduced to new feelings of affection or joy. I didn’t think I’d ever feel this way about a man, and look at how I want to be with him all the time now. I didn’t think I would ever care about the church, and look how I am anticipating next Sunday. And now Max,” tears formed in her eyes and trailed down her cheeks, “you tell me I might have a beautiful home. This is more affection than

I’ve ever felt. Thank you both. Thank you all.” She held Bret’s hand. too.

Construction Begins

O n Monday, the construction electrical mast was installed and turned on. There was now power to the project. Max ed all the folks who had made appointments for Tri-X informing them that Western Powers had acquired the technology, and he visited Jeff at Legacy Good Samaritan. He wasn’t sure what he would find when he looked in the young man’s room. It was a pleasant surprise to find Terry sitting beside the bed, chatting with his son. Both of them welcomed him, and invited Max to have a seat in the other chair. At a glance he could understand that a tall cast had been placed on Jeff’s right leg, and his right arm was in a sling. “Well, it looks like you’re going to make it after all.” Max said with a smile. “Hi, Mr. Wall,” Terry returned the greeting. “Jeff was just telling me how you patched him up, and drove him here in your BMW. That’s a pretty fancy aid car.” Jeff nodded. His broken nose was taped and two nasty wounds on his scalp were sutured. “He told me that you and another FBI agent came to his assistance when he didn’t have anyone else. Thank you.” It was clear that Terry was genuinely appreciative. Quietly he added, “I had no idea you are with the FBI.” “Would that have made a difference when you spoke with Sarah?” The question was soft spoken, but its impact was immediate. “I was out of line. I’m sorry. I’ve never been threatened with being fired from a job. I was frightened,” he said almost in a whisper. “I couldn’t get to Jeff and I knew she was right. He has a problem with boundaries” Max saw a tear trickle down Jeff’s face. “To be clear, I’m not an agent” Max said quietly. “I’m a tech contractor for the FBI, and in case you are concerned with Sarah’s youthfulness, she owns a hundred acre cherry orchard in the Eola Hills, plus an ing firm here in Portland. She has her MBA, and is more than qualified to be in charge of the renovation.” Without waiting for any more response, he said to Jeff, “Mr. Franklin made two

house calls Saturday night. Six of the young men who pounded on you are in jail now somewhat the worse for wear. One of the houses was full of drugs, and the other one was operating as a house of prostitution. There’s going to be a lot of jail time for all of them. I’m glad that’s not the case with you. He was a one man wrecking ball.” Jeff nodded. “He did retrieve your pickup and wallet. It’s parked in the garage at my condo across from the zoo.” Jeff removed the mouth guard that was keeping his loose teeth in place. Tears were freely flowing. “Mr. Wall, I’m so sorry for the grief I have brought to you and Miss Dalton. I know better, and have no excuse for my careless behavior. Please forgive me. I would ask her as well, but I don’t think that will work.” He partially rolled on his side so he could face his dad. “There are not words to tell you how sorry I am, and how disappointed you must be in me. Dad, I have been an out of control headstrong fool. I knew I was acting stupid, but I did it anyway, thinking I would get away with it. I was wrong. Please forgive me. If you will let me, I’d like to come home and heal up. I will work hard to repay all the money you’ve had to pay Gwen. My eyes are open, and I believe it is not too late for me to be a responsible decent person, unless you say it is.” A sob convulsed his body, causing him to grimace in pain. He said in a whisper, “I love you, dad.” It was two speeches he had rehearsed in his mind, and was glad to have an opportunity to give voice to them, even if they did seem awkward for him. Max was eager to tell Sarah about a very contrite Jeff, and dad.

On Tuesday scaffolding was erected on the front side, and the upstairs windows were enlarged to match the downstairs windows and the beautiful oak double doors were installed, complete with stained glass. Terry started framing the basement. By Friday the water pipes were installed along with the waste lines, and February 1st had another light dusting of snow. Phone wires were distributed throughout the building with house phones and TV cables upstairs, separate lines into three basement offices, and a dedicated separate fiber optic circuit for Michael in the fourth one. Slowly, day by day progress was made on the project. Eventually it was the first of March and painters could get at the outside. It was elegant. All the walls were sheet-rocked and the sealer coat of paint was applied. John reported that he thought they would be completely finished in a week.

Michael pinged an email from Mr. Dawson. Max was glad to respond just to hear Double-Oh-Seven. “Max, thanks for the quick response, Sean said you might have an answer for this. We have a hacker that we can’t trap. We know he has been in our system, but he has avoided all our file mines. May I give what I believe to be his address to you, and ask you to look for some weakness. Let me know what happens.” The line went dead. Using his Cyber computer, Max put in the address and pressed enter. It indicated the computer was on, but inactive. Max, using Vampire, got into the file list, which he copied as evidence before he installed Cannibal. Then he opened it. There was no need to exit because the computer and server were instantly disabled. No, they were destroyed. No trace of his presence or activity was recorded. Sean sent an email about three hours later, saying, “I knew you could think of something Max. I can’t figure out how you did it, but a guy in Maintenance was using his own computer to try to get information from us. Apparently he was clued not to open the ‘Secret” file, but the truth came out when his computer and server was found to be stone cold, shot-in-the-street dead, the other three computers in the office were not on, so they were not disabled. They blew the whistle on him, and he confessed. I think he was hauled out of here in handcuffs. You can guess that Dawson is crowing about “his people,” who even collected evidence before the kill-shot. You make me even more jealous.” “I’m not sure he would have done it for anyone else, but he has given me a week off with pay for your April wedding, and I think Udiko will come along too. I’ve never been a best man and I’m positive I’ve never had a best friend like you. I’ll try to do you honor, man. Sean.” Before the lights were turned out, Max had a ping from Mr. Dawson, requesting a call. “Good evening Max.” There was that charming voice. “Mr. Dawson has asked me to inform you that because of your immediate and brilliant service today you have been approved to be advanced to a S15. You will see an increase on your next payday, and can see benefit information on our section’s web site. He also applauds your creative restoration to the century old Portland mansion. You are a great satisfaction to him. Well done.” The line went still, leaving Max wondering how Mr. Dawson was getting his information. Max and Sarah were enjoying their Friday date night. She had chosen Bella Vito

for Italian and he had chosen a movie to follow, “the Dolphin Tale”. While they were waiting for the movie to start, she said, “Grace finally got back to me about some George Fox candidates. She and Miss Kate have two young women who perfectly match the qualifications. I’m really excited that these could be the beginning of a list of accomplished young scholars.” Max leaned closed to her and asked, “Have you interviewed them at all?” “Nope. I sort of trust Grace and Kate to say that these are the ones.” Her voice was soft and happy. “And Eddie says Hank has a son and daughter that started last year but they don’t have enough money to continue. Didn’t you say we could do four new ones each year? We’ve been so focused on Tri-X and the old house, we have sort of neglected the list. Do you think we can start with these? Something seemed too casual about this decision process. He felt a little left out of the choice. His first attitude was disappointment that turned into an irritated frustration. But then he thought about their last pinky promise. He had agreed to her decisions, to affirm their mutual leadership. He took a breath and said, “Sweetie, that’s fabulous. You’re right I have not given it the attention it needs, and you did. Maybe the next four will get a more thorough look. We’ll have to impress upon these first four pioneers how much rests on their efforts.” He leaned over so he could kiss her, or she could kiss him. Either way, he liked it. They also loved the movie, and agreed it would be fun to go visit Winter, the real life Dolphin. As they were walking to the car, Max suggested, “Let’s spend some time in the morning at the house. I think Ronnie might be about finished planting the landscape around it. If Hank is with him, we might be able to set up some sort of meeting with his kids.” He thought for a moment before saying, “It’s only 37 days before we will have breakfast together every morning. May I pick you up for an Appleby Breakfast?” Sarah wondered if Grace had been this happy, and this excited, before she married Eric. Perhaps she should schedule one more counseling session with her to discuss intimacy, a subject that had been on her mind a lot. “I’d love all parts of that suggestion, Max. I just really, really like you. I’m counting the days too”

The house was a bee hive of activity. A truck with a long flex hose was blowing

cedar mulch in the landscaping. Electricians were busy installing lamps and can lights, and masons were putting the finishing touch on the kitchen back-splash, having completed all the bathrooms. Eddie and Hank waved hello, but Terry got to them first. “Good morning folks, I’m glad you’re here to make a couple decisions for me. Have you got a minute?” His attitude was considerably improved. They followed him into the basement. “I explained that code requires escape exits. We’ve managed that nicely. I have a slush-fund that isn’t needed, so I wonder if you would like some privacy between the offices and the wet bar area. I’ve been thinking that a glass wall right over here,” he pointed across the hallway, “With a couple large French doors would work nicely for both areas. It’s not too late to add.” Max looked at Sarah, saying, “Sounds O.K. to me, Sweetie. What do you think?” “Most of the time I like large areas, she answered. But in this case it separated functions as well as areas. I think it is a terrific suggestion, Terry.” Her smile was warm and genuine. “As you can see, Max, we are practically done down here, on time and under budget. Just the way you hoped. Since there are no windows down here, I took the liberty to mount four lighted 6 X 4 s in the office spaces. I found the seasons of Mt. Hood, each office space is a different season. They are almost like looking out a window at the mountain.” His smile was that of satisfaction. Max held out his hand, saying, “You told us it would be a show stopper. Great job Terry; fantastic job.” Sarah ed in the praise. They found Eddie and Hank waiting for them in the parking lot. Max apologized for answering a question first. “Now what is on your mind this spring day?” Eddie answered, “We hob two big questions for you too, Senor Max, maybe tree.” When he finally understood that Max was waiting for them, he spilled them out. “Hank asked Senor Sterling about mower. It was new just a year ago, a Yamaha, bery, bery nice. There is also a tool shed to park it. He will sell everythin’, tools and all, for a tousand dollars. That’s question one. Number two is Ronnie has a truck that could bring the mower and shed down from Bancouber. He says he will do it for $600, if you say ‘yes’ to number tree. He

has money left over in the landscaping budget. He would plant an evergreen screen around the shed so it doesn’t take away from the beautiful house.” Max asked Hank, “Do you know what the mower cost new?” “I believe it was over four thousand dollars. It really is quite nice,” he said politely, “and the shed is a steel ‘Tough Shed’, American made.” “It sounds like I couldn’t go wrong with that.” He looked at Sarah who nodded agreement. “I’ll have the money for you Monday morning, and of course, there is no hurry getting it here. But you must have clear receipts and documentation for the equipment to cross the border.” When she felt that business was complete, Sarah asked Hank, “Do I understand that your wife, Consuelo, will be unemployed soon?” “Actually,” he answered softly, “she is unemployed now, as of the 1st of March. The Sterling’s will move by the 1st of April.” “What will you do?” Sarah ask, as she realized both the gravity of the situation, and its opportunity. “Do either Alex or Juanita have jobs?” “No Ma’am. They both had part time jobs in the college bookstore. But when they had to discontinue, they had to leave those jobs behind.” He shrugged stoically. Sarah glanced at Max, who nodded for her to continue. “Hank, is Consuelo a housekeeper or a cook?” “She’s both, plus she looks after the Sterling’s children some evenings.” “Do you live in their home, or your own?” “We have a small two bedroom apartment in north Vancouver. We ride the bus when there is work for me, and she does every day.” “Forgive me for asking such a personal question,” Sarah looked down out of respect. “Are you living on your savings now?” “Thank you for caring. Mr. Sterling paid her for this entire month. He called it

‘separation pay’, and Ronnie has been generous for the hours I have helped him on this job. We don’t have savings to speak of. You are gracious to care . April may be a bit thin.” Sarah asked Max, “Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” Her smile was charming. When Max nodded, Sarah said, “Hank, we may have a solution. Will you talk to Consuelo and ask her if she would like to be a resident housekeeper for us, and would you like to be responsible for the lawn and gardens? You will be comfortably compensated, plus, we even have a scholarship program that will allow Alex and Juanita a college education.” His eyes filled with tears. After a big breath, he said, “It’s almost too much to believe. Eddie told me that you are an angel on earth. Now I believe it. I’m sure we would welcome an opportunity to work for you.” Max asked, “Hank, I don’t believe we were told your last name.” A boyish grin accepted the question. “My grandfather, I have been told, was from the Baja town of Loreto. When he came to this country, he wanted some of his home to come along, so he took the name as his own. I’m third generation Loreto. My father actually named me ‘Henry’, as in Henry Ford. He thought it would be a very American name. It became Hank after Hammering Hank Aaron, the baseball player. Isn’t life full of twists and silly turns?” Max agreed, “Amazing twists, an beautiful turns.” He offered a handshake for agreement, which Hank eagerly accepted.

Sarah asked Max if they could see the upper floors, now that they were nearly finished. “It is so beautiful, and elegant, and inviting, and…” She ran out of superlative descriptions. The most wonderful part was that in just thirty seven days it would be their new home! They found Terry and John chatting on the front porch. John asked, “Well, Boss, what do you think? Pretty incredible isn’t it?” “That and more,” Max answered with a big smile. “Who would have imagined just ten weeks ago, that this silk purse could come to life?”

John asked, “We were just talking about showing this girl off a bit. What do you think about an open house?” “Well, I’m very delighted with what you have done. I’m sure there are family and colleagues who would welcome the opportunity to tour it.” His face took on a more serious look. “But I’m feeling a little too private to invite the city to parade through.” Terry ask rather quickly, “Do you mind if the Historical Society people take a look?” “How many would that include,” Max asked. “Only about a dozen, maybe fifteen,” Terry answered with a shrug. “And spouses, of course. There might be a few with children.” Sarah said softly, “Max, Honey, it would be an opportunity for our friends from the church to see it too.” Max said with a serious expression, “This sounds like a fiasco about to happen. It is our home, not a public venue. There are valuables here, fragile items, and very sensitive equipment. Terry, the only reason I will even consider this is the key pad lock for the Department of Justice computer. This is not open to the public. Will you agree?” The contractors both nodded in agreement. “By personal invitation, adults only, we will have an afternoon open house on Saturday April ninth, just a week before our wedding day. I am agreeing reluctantly because I want absolutely no distractions.” Sarah hooked her arm in his, “I want folks to see how very fortunate we are. I’m filled with happy gratitude. Thank you, gentlemen, I know you will help make this an appropriate open house.”

Move in

T wo days later, Sarah called Max to say she had just paid John his final bill. “You can begin moving your stuff in, and Gwen has a couple truck loads too. I am so excited. I can’t wait to see it.” Max called the same moving company that had moved the same stuff from Crenshaw’s just five months ago. The first load, was computers and servers. Max supervised that and attended the relocation. It was his way of declaring that it was really happening. Perhaps the most delightful part of the move was inviting Bret and Liz to the Title Company to sign property papers. They were now the owners of a marvelous seventh floor condo overlooking the zoo. Now Gwen had another home to help furnish. Michael had his own room again. Every day there was action for him to take. Since the massive seizures, most of these seemed pretty ordinary. Max wondered if Mr. Dawson might be on vacation, since the assignments were so mundane. Nonetheless, he made sure that every day’s assignments were complete before he turned out the lights. It was a bit of a challenge to find the new stairway up to the kitchen, and up another flight of stairs to get to his bedroom. Soon it would be their bedroom. An early morning ping notified him to M. Dawson. “Good morning Max,” The silky voice made him glad he had a reason to call. “Mr. Dawson has another assignment for you; this one is domestic. I believe he was at a function last night when a celebrity asked him why we couldn’t do more to discourage computer hackers. He explained the legalities and limitations of our system. The celebrity asked him what we do to keep them at bay and he mentioned your ‘file mine.’ There were several there who were instantly eager to have at least one installed. Mr. Dawson is aware that you have not agreed to this sort of domestic assignment at large, so he is asking for a personal favor. If he told you the identity of the celebrity, he is sure you would be most eager to agree to do it for her. Ooops! I am sending you a list of addresses, all of which are computers on and waiting for your magic. In advance we thank you. The message ended abruptly. Max pondered the request for quite a while. It was unlike the usual crispness of

Mr. Dawson. He had that uneasy feeling that he was being led down a new rabbit hole, now doing personal favors that took on sinister possibilities. There was a momentary flashback to Crenshaw, and his deception. But finally Max sent a copy of the file named, “Jennifer’s private pictures,” complete with the Cannibal virus, to the nine waiting computers, adding it to their open files. Once again he called Mr. Dawson, and confirmed with Double-Oh-Seven what he had done, and urged a warning not to open the ‘Jennifer’ file. The computer graciously thanked him and disconnected. The hardest challenge with living in the big house was the quiet. It was by itself very insulated so sound didn’t carry far. The neighborhood was quiet, there was little to no street noise, and it was far enough from the downtown that only a soft glow of lights reached them. Max started leaving radios on, tuned to either the smooth jazz station, or classical. He just wanted some sound to penetrate the silence. He was alone for four days before he heard Ronnie’s truck, followed by Eddie’s pickup. They were bringing the Canadians. He had a brief thought that the quiet might soon be missed. “Hola, Senor Max. It was a bery good day on the freeway. We hod no trouble at all, and hod a bery good lunch on the way. Let me introduce Consuelo.” Max greeted her with a handshake and a warm, “Welcome to this new home.” “And dis handsome man is Alex. He is nineteen and anxious to be in school.” Again Max shared a greeting. “An’ dis charmin’ princess is Juanita. She is only eighteen, but so smart she finish high school a year early. She cried when she heard they might get to go on to school here.” The smile Max received was dazzling. Max said as a way of greeting and direction, “Before we unload the truck, let me show you the house and your rooms.” They went to the French doors that opened into the kitchen eating area. With murmured appreciation, the living room was next, with Gwen’s favorite cream colored leather furniture and highlighted paintings. There were more oo’s and ah’s, The formal dining room was indeed spectacular with its twenty foot long table and more paintings. The library had three leather chairs, study tables and the stairway that went down into the basement. The last room Max showed them was the media room, which looked inviting with the blue leather furniture from the condo and the plasma TV with surround sound. “The last room on this side is the office which I use for personal, and therefore private, business. A guest suite is at the end of the

hallway on this side,” “Now across the hall,” he said at last, “are the rooms of most interest to you. The apartment on the right has a queen size bed and dresser, and a closet with built in storage. The bathroom is private. The one on the left, also with a private bathroom, is for our anticipated scholars. There are two twin beds and dressers. The closet also has built ins but you’ll need to work out who gets what. The privacy screen that divides the space will help, I imagine.” Once more Juanita had tears in her eyes, as did the rest of her family. “The door across the hall is the bathroom for the guest rooms. We assumed it is the available one for all of us on this floor.” There were a few questions, which you might expect from overwhelmed new folks. “Now let’s get the mower off the truck so these men can get on their way. I notice you don’t have a car,” he said to Hank. “No sir, we have depended on public transportation.” “That will be a problem, since no bus comes into the Terrace here. But I have a dependable Honda at the condo. We can go get it, and stop at the grocery store on Cornell Road on our way home. That will become a familiar place before long.” Then with an afterthought, Max asked, “Do you have drivers licenses?” Hank and Alex nodded, but Consuelo and Juanita shook their heads. “You have a generous three months to get Oregon licenses, so if Juanita wants to work on hers, you can do it all together.” Max wasn’t able to read Alex very clearly. He was a private person. Consuelo asked, “Will Miss Sarah us for supper tonight?” Max hadn’t even considered it a possibility. “There’s not much in either the refrigerator or pantry. You know, a poor bachelor lives here.” They all smiled. “If we can visit a store, I would be happy to fix something she likes. Italian?” Max couldn’t hold back the smile, “She loves Italian food. Usually we must go to a restaurant to enjoy that however.” Consuelo ed his smile. “From now on, we can enjoy it better in this wonderful home. Do you have a coffee maker?”

“Only the kind that uses pods to make a cup at a time. If you will be good enough to make a list of appliance items, or cleaning supplies we need to begin this arrangement, I’ll be glad to get them tomorrow.” Somehow, the boredom of silence was long forgotten. In the morning when Max came downstairs, he was surprised to find the family sitting around the kitchen table. It was not yet 7 a.m. Hank and Consuelo were enjoying coffee, Alex and Juanita had glasses of apple juice. “Good morning,” Max greeted them. “Did this quiet old house give you rest last night?” Before they could answer, Max said, “Consuelo, that supper last night was the very best ever! Sarah told me on the way home that she had never enjoyed Steak Marsalis before, but it is her favorite now.” “A cook, like a new bride, enjoys praise,” she answered. “I have a few more that she will like as well.” She paused, “May I prepare your breakfast?” Max finally realized that they had been waiting for him to come downstairs. “Oh forgive me for being so slow this morning. I usually just have a protein drink to start the day. My computer is on Washington D.C. time, so I’m on my way to work now.” Hank asked, “Do you always work from home?” Alex asked as quickly, “What sort of work can you do in Washington from down there?” “It’s complicated to explain” Max said lightly. “I’m a computer technician for the Department of Justice. The office downstairs that has the keypad is my connection to the world. Let me advise you not to tamper with the keypad in any way. If a wrong number is entered, a loud alarm will sound. Then I must explain to my boss what an unapproved person is doing here. That would be a complication for my supervisor, and an even larger one for the one who triggered it.” Both men nodded they understood the warning. “I’ll work for an hour or so, and then we can go back down the hill and discover some new stores.”

Counselor Grace

A t two o’clock promptly, Sarah entered Grace French’s office. Her reason for requesting a session with her former counselor was both exciting and intimidating. They chatted as friends might about her practice, Eric’s pastoral duties, until finally Grace said, “You want to discuss intimacy?” “Yes, and I tell you that is a subject far less than comfortable for me. I want to be a pleasant partner for Max, but I’m really not sure what that means.” Grace smiled that comforting way she had used so often to put Sarah at ease. “You love him, and want him to know that in the most intimate and sensitive way possible.” “Yes, I do! But I’m not sure how that would work. Honestly, I understand the concept, just not the specifics of it.” Her grimace made Grace chuckle. “Sarah that is so classic. I’m going to tell you about a hypothetical couple. They are the composites of dozens of couples who have come to this office. The problem is that he wants more sex, and she wants less, but more sensuality. Basically, she talks in circles trying to convince him that it’s not a serious problem anymore, because they both want less. She wants his reassurance. He thinks the problem still exists, but he avoids telling her that directly.” “So often when a husband and wife talk to each other about their sexual needs, their conversation is like this – indirect, imprecise, inconclusive. Usually both partners are in a hurry to end the conversation, hopeful that the other will miraculously understand the other’s desires without much talk. They rarely say things like ‘I love you to stroke my breasts like you did last night.’ Or ‘I knew you wanted to make love when you touched me there.’ The problem is, the less clear you are about what you do and don’t want, the less likely you are to get it. Sex can be such a fun way to share with each other and deepen your sense of intimacy. But when communication is tangled with tension, then frustration and hurt feelings too often result.” Sarah nodded in understanding.

“So, the trick is,” the counselor took a deep breath, “you must learn to talk to each other about sex in a way that lets you feel safe. That means learning the right way to ask for what you would like, and the appropriate way to react to Max’s requests. Because most people feel so vulnerable about whether they are attractive to their spouse and a good ‘lover,’ the real key to talking about sex is to be gentle. A lovemaking session that starts with one partner criticizing the other is already doomed to something less than they wanted. The goal of sex should be to feel closer, to have more pleasure, and to feel satisfied. You should feel valued and accepted in this very tender area of your marriage. Nothing is guaranteed to make your spouse want to touch you less than if you say, ‘You never touch me.’ It would be so much better to say, ‘I loved when we kissed on the couch. I’d love more of that it makes me feel so good.’ See the difference?” Sarah nodded. “Instead of, ‘don’t touch me there,’ you’ll get a better response if you say, ‘It feels extra good when you touch me here.’ When you talk to Max about sex, your attitude should always be that you are making a very good thing even better. Even if you aren’t very satisfied with your sex life, you need to accentuate the positive. Am I making sense?” Sarah nodded and said, “I’m really glad we can have this conversation. Without a mom or older sisters, I’m really in the scary dark about something so super important.” Grace continued, “But you know the nature of Max, his tenderness and faith. He is not going to suggest something from you that is debasing or crude. He would never do anything that would be hurtful or harmful to you. What I am mindful of is that the couples I have talked with never say they are sorry their partner asked for crazy stuff. They are sorry, however, that they didn’t talk honestly and openly with their partner about the new discoveries in love making, like lights on or off, time of day, and those sorts of things. They know they missed out on a lot of excitement and pleasure.” Sarah told Grace how helpful Max had been when assuring her that arousal would happen, as he rubbed her feet. She said with a grin, “and it was pleasurable.” “How did that make you feel?” her counselors asked.

“I was comfortable, and felt safe,” she answered honestly. “My point exactly,” Grace said softly. “That was foreplay in its first stage. Max was demonstrating to you that you can trust him, and learn from him. There may come times when you will want to be the teacher. I hope you are as careful with him as he was with you.” “But Grace, aren’t there sinful perversions we must avoid?” Sarah asked with a confused voice. “I suppose there are,” the counselor answered. “But they are extreme and far from most of the activity that a married couple might imagine,” Sarah had started to weep. “I’m sorry to be so ignorant about this. I guess this is why I’m here. I don’t know what to fear, or how to feel about it.” After an uncomfortable silence, Grace continued, “There are many challenges in the area of sex that you should know about. The greatest one, I believe, is a lack of basic knowledge about it. That leads people to base their expectations for their own performance from informal and unreliable sources, mostly from the movies, or the stories they heard from friends during adolescence. The result is often that we judge ourselves quite harshly and feel that we are a poor partner in bed. We can carry self-doubt and anxiety with us without being aware of them.” The counselor wanted to bring this conversation back toward a reasonable conclusion. “Another problem with the lack of basic knowledge is that we presume that we know about one another’s anatomy and sexual physiology when we have never learned about those mysteries. We wouldn’t think about running a new complex appliance, without at least glancing at the manual. But in the area of sexuality, we do. Fortunately in this day and age there is a ton of reliable information about the subject.” She turned around and found two books from her shelf. “These are loaners, since you haven’t a lot of time before your wedding. Here is, ‘The Joy of Sex,’ which was my big helper as I was struggling with this in high school. The author’s name is Alex Comfort, which I found very humorous. It’s a classic from the 70’s. When you read it make sure you understand he explains the most common elements, but also some exotic extremes. Don’t feel that he is putting any normative appraisal on any of it; but you must at least know about it. This second one is Lonnie Barbach’s ‘For Each Other.” Eric and I read this together,

and enjoyed it a lot.” Grace had a wide smile. Sarah thanked Grace for making time for this session. She laid a check on the desk, and then added a sheet with driving directions. You and Eric are invited to our new home on Hill Terrace for a rehearsal dinner Thursday April 14th at 6:30. It is pretty challenging to find, but definitely worth the effort. Max has hired a housekeeper that specializes in Italian food. I am amazed.” Sarah asked a question that had an obvious answer. “Did you know that Max asked Eric if Bret and Liz could be married with us, a double ceremony?” “He told me. It will be a first for us,” Grace said with positive anticipation. “I didn’t quite know how to answer when Max asked me first. But these people have been very important to Max first, they saved his life, and then to me as they have become like family. By sharing the wedding service, they will have a chance to know the and applause of a large crowd, which would never happen without us. I think it was very generous of Max, and super sweet.” “And you are completely O.K. with that?” Grace asked. “Oh yes,” the bride-to-be said. “They take nothing away from us, and add a wider sense of our joy.” “Sarah that is a very gracious thing to say. Your maturity has always been an inspiration to me. Eric and I will be glad to attend the dinner.” “You folks have been to the orchard a number of times. In fact, the very first time I saw it I was with you. I have put driving direction to it as well, They embraced, each thinking about the long journey they had been on together. Finally, Sarah headed for home. She had some serious reading to do.

When Consuelo heard Max tell Sarah that he would find a caterer to provide hospitality for the open house, she intervened. “Mr. Max, sir, I can provide a very delectable fare if you can provide me with $200 for groceries. I can make white Sangria, cucumber crab appetizers, mini tacos, meat balls, a light fruit plate, and Crustos. It sounded charming and very easy for Max

At church Sarah had handed out more than two dozen invitations to the open house, complete with driving directions. Several of the folks seemed excited to see their major project. Sunday evenings were difficult for Max now. He was accustomed to being in Sarah’s presence, hearing her voice, sharing a conversation or a kiss, and then she went home. It was too early to go to bed, the house was quiet, and so he went down to his computer. He had been thinking about the command over ride that could remotely turn a computer on. It had to be fairly easy. Microsoft did it regularly to install upgrades. He worked on it for about an hour, and then called the customer . The voice that answered spoke fair English so Max tried to explain that he wanted to prevent unsolicited upgrades and wondered how he could do that. It was a back way into discovering how the default was made. It only took another hour before he had the code command. He was sending Sarah a goodnight email, reminding her that they only had to count 13 more lonely days. Michael pinged a request to Mr. Dawson. Max finished the fun chore, and turned to the unexpected one. “Good evening Max. It is nice to hear from you. Mr. Dawson will be right with you.” That voice always made him smile. She seemed happy. “Hey Max, you are burning the midnight oil. Thanks for the quick call-back. Listen we have raised hell with the file mines as defensive strategy. I wonder how you would feel serving a dish of dead computers to some of our less friendly folks as an offensive strategy. I’d like you to deliver a ‘Secret’ file to a number of our known enemies.” He waited for some response. Finally Max said, “What do I know? If you send me the numbers, I will follow your instructions. You point, and I’ll pull the trigger.” “Damn Max, I like you more all the time,” the deep voice rumbled. “I’m sending you a list of addresses. They are international, and you must enter them just as I have printed with the greater or lesser symbols. That designates which language they will use. I guess you need to find computers that are on and unoccupied, so do your best.” Max tried to sound humble when he said, “I think I have just discovered how I can boot them remotely, which will be even easier.” “Damn Max, I think I’m in love. You’d better hurry and marry Sarah or I’m

coming to Portland to fetch you into this office. You are a super star. Here comes the list. You don’t have to tell me when you’re finished, I’ll know. Hey, I’ve got a meeting!” The line was dead. Max worked until nearly one o’clock. His eyes wanted to close for the night, so he quit. But he would pick it up first thing later. He would send over seven hundred deadly files to an unknown enemy. On Tuesday Gwen brought her final truckload of furniture: twin beds and dressers for the upstairs bedrooms, and charming comforters and pillows on top. The wet bar area was given two round game tables and chairs, and a dozen leather easy chairs, plus eight bar stools. The over-the-top final addition was the 60 inch Samsung TV on the wine storage credenza. She also had a large assortment of plants and floral arrangements placed in various main floor rooms for the open house. Hank and Alex were working to make a paver patio outside the east door of the basement. It would be a shady place in the afternoon to sit and enjoy the spectacular vista of Mt. Hood, or, if there was no rain, a place where the large open house crowd could spill out of the basement. The preparations were almost complete. John Stephenson had emailed that he expected about a dozen from Stephenson Construction to stop by. Terry Cobb emailed that a lot of excitement was in the Historical Society meeting. He thought forty would attend the open house.

Spencer Yost

J ust before lunch on Friday there was a knock at the front door and a man came in uninvited. “Is the owner on the property,” he asked. “I’m the owner,” Max said, still incredulous that someone would just walk in on them. “I’m Max Wall.” “Wonderful!” the man said as he offered his business card. “I’m Spencer Yost from Premier Properties. I know I’m a day early for the open house, but I have a buyer who is highly motivated to get a place here on the terrace. I’m hoping I can bring him through.” Then speaking confidentially, he added, “He’s a cash buyer willing to go 2.7 or eight for a quick sale.” Max had stared at him in unbelief. “Mr. Yost, this home is not for sale, and the open house is not for the public. How in the world did you even know about it?” “Oh I have my hand on the pulse of Portland. That’s how I stay a top producer. I know that every piece of property is for sale. We just need to find the right numbers. I’d really like to bring my buyer in.” Maybe it was the fact that he had found little sleep this week. Maybe it was because this rude man was highly irritating. Maybe it was because Max had not been able to control the people who were planning to attend by the rules. He found himself delightfully angry. “Mr. Yost, I will only ask you once to leave my house. You have no business here and I want you out of my face.” But Mr…… was it Wall? I’m sure we can find,,,” Max firmly grasped his elbow and turned him toward the door. “Understand this, Mr. Yost. My home is not for sale, I don’t care what kind of numbers you have.” He pushed the stumbling man out the door, then closed and locked it. A couple minutes later, he heard voices coming from the front of the house, voices other than those of Hank and Alex.

As Max made his way downstairs he thought to himself, “No one could be so rude or stupid to still be hanging around.” But sure enough, there he stood, with a couple who were trying to peer into the wet bar area. Yost had impressed Hank enough to move out of the way.” Max marched through the open door onto the incomplete patio. In his strongest voice he said, “Yost you are either stupid or dumber than that. I told you to leave. Do I have to pick up one of these bricks and convince you to go? I said this property is not for sale. Believe me, you wing nut, or I will embarrass you in front of these nice people. I’m calling your boss to complain about your ridiculous behavior.” The three made their way across the new sprouting lawn to the car parked at the curb. He was so angry he found the Real Estate office number on Yost’s card and called it. He was aware that this much steam might not make a good Christian witness, but something had to be said. “Hello this is Allen Simms, I’m the manager. How can I help you?” His voice was smooth and professional. “Mr. Simms, does a Spencer Yost work for you?” In a bright voice the manager answered, “Of course, he’s one of our top sales agents. Can I tell him who is calling?” “No you cannot. I’m calling to complain about his behavior that is appalling and a rudeness that is totally unacceptable.” “Oh my, that couldn’t be our Mr. Yost. He was agent of the year last year.” “Listen carefully, Max warned, “If he ever walks into my home uninvited again, if he ever walks on my fresh lawn again, if he ever tries to show my home to a buyer again, I promise you grief is going to come down hard on you.” “Please tell me your name, sir, so I can look into this.” The manager was appropriately contrite. “I’m Max Wall at 3100 Greenbrier Terrace.” “Yes sir,” he broke in. “You’re having the open house tomorrow for the old

mansion. We have several interested customers who will be there.” “No they won’t,” Max said firmly. “I have no idea where you got your information. Perhaps it’s some stupid prankster. Let me say this very clearly to you. My home is not for sale. The open house that you want to bring your customers to is private, by invitation only. Do you understand that much Mr. Simms?” The manager mumbled, “Yes,” which Max couldn’t comprehend. “If one of your agents comes into my home uninvited, I will charge him with tresing. Is that clear enough for you to understand?” He didn’t wait for an answer. “And if Mr. Yost barges into my home again, I cannot be held responsible for the consequences. I’ve got another call.” He hung up. Max realized he was trying to sound like Mr. Dawson. He felt so cranky for the rest of the afternoon he knew he needed physical activity. He volunteered to help finish the patio. Hank said they needed another strong back to move the rest of the bricks. Max used a wheelbarrow to haul several heavy loads from pallets in the parking lot around to the front. The good news is the job was completed before supper. The better news is that Max forgot his enmity toward Mr. Yost well before the job was finished. When Sarah arrived, it was like a second sunrise. Her joyful smile and warm embrace were gifts to Max. Her bottle of wine and one of ginger ale were her hope for a wine flip. Consuelo chuckled, “Thank you for adding to the dinner. It is a sign of a good appetite. If you will try the white Sangria first, we’ll see which you like best. I have made Cannelloni for your date night. We’ll see how it goes.” It was the beginning of another wonderful evening with not even a small thought about Mr. Yost. Before she went home, they toured the house, beginning upstairs. There were comments about Gwen’s comprehensive care for the house. She also noticed the book, “For Each Other,” on the night stand. Max was doing his homework. On the main floor there was considerable praise for Gwen’s artistic sense of color and balance. The stairway from the library took them to the wet bar. “Look at the size of that TV “she giggled. “It’s like a theater down here, and if we ever need money, we can open it as a sports bar.” There was more laughter. “Max, this is amazingly beautiful. You must be very proud.” Saturday morning began with pre-party jitters. Consuelo had chores for Alex and Juanita. Hank had moved the empty brick pallets back near the mower shed.

Now he swept the parking area, and raked the cedar mulch nice and smooth. Max found an email on Michael requesting a call to Mr. Dawson. “Good morning Max. It’s going to be a busy day for you today.” He had the impression he was speaking with a person, the creamy voice was so pleasant. “Mr. Dawson has told me what an outstanding job you have done this week. We have early results that the file mines are disrupting many of the foreign computer systems. They believe we are the cause, but without any obvious proof. Once again he applauds you and has asked me to along these four seizures. They are pharmaceutical companies out of compliance, and will be significant if you can find their hidden funds. He also asked me to along that three of the large seizures of the chemical companies have just this week been determined as ‘abandoned.’ Your rewards are forthcoming. I hope it is a beautiful spring day in Portland. I should let you get to work.” Double-Oh-Seven clicked off, and Max had the distinct urge to say, “Goodbye.” Outside a steady rain was falling. He really had nothing to do until Sarah came over, so he addressed the first company on the list. For several minutes he chased shadow investments and holdings, and then by chance he found the bank in Venezuela that had a nine digit whopper. He seized it leaving the standard signature. He heard Sarah’s voice upstairs and shut down the computer. If the reward came through, he had just earned another staggering reward. “It’s just a number,” he reminded himself.

Open House

B ret arrived just a few minutes before one o’clock, with the first of the visitors. He was asked if he could help the flow of traffic upstairs. Max was leery of folks looking through personal items in the master bedroom. Alex was asked to do the same thing on the main floor. Their private quarters were also not part of the open house. Consuelo and Juanita offered to keep the hospitality refreshed in the wet bar area, where the TV was tuned to the golf channel. Hank agreed to help folks park and find their way around to the front door. Sarah greeted folks as they came in the French doors into the kitchen, and Max was the front door greeter. It was pretty easy to recognize folks from the church and he asked if others were from the Historical Society. There were many more than forty who identified themselves. Things went pretty smoothly for a couple hours, and then Mr. Yost arrived. Max met him at the door saying, “You are dumber than a doorknob, Mr. Yost. I thought I made it very clear to you yesterday that this is a private gathering and you are not on the list. Now turn around and leave or there will be an embarrassing scene. The man shrugged and turned around. Two groups of people came in with one obvious leader. He was explaining the history of the building and the charm of the renovation. “Excuse me, “Max said politely. “Are you from the Historical Society?” The smiling leader of the group said, “No sir, we are from Premiere Properties. These folks are interested in bidding on this property.” Max stepped in front of the leader, obviously blocking their way. “I’m sorry you wasted your time this rainy day. This is a private open house, by invitation only. I told Mr. Simms yesterday that this home is not for sale, nor will it be for a generation. Please leave before we make a scene and embarrass your customers.” There was a bit of confusion as the back folks began turning to leave, and those waiting in line wondered about the delay. The leader wanted to get in one last jab. “I don’t see why you let some of us in

and not others. Yost is downstairs.” Max found him at the food bar, enjoying a full plate. “Mr. Yost, we meet again. How many times do I need to ask you to leave? You’re more stubborn than a case of the flu.” “You said this was an open house, by invitation.” There was a weak smile on his face, “Charlie Weaver asked me to come with him.” “Who is Charlie Weaver,” Max asked with growing impatience. A white haired gentleman standing not far away said, “I’m Charlie, but I don’t recall seeing you at any of the meetings.” “I suppose you are referring to Historical Society meetings,” “You bet. Spence and I worked together at Premier, until I retired, and I invited him to get a look at this place before it comes on the market.” “Yeah, I see how you worked that. By the way do you fellows have an email address? I’d like to send you the information I have on this place, and maybe you could send me your stuff.” Max was trying very hard to control his emotions. Spenser reached inside his jacket pocket for a piece of paper, which they both used to write email addresses. “Gentlemen, we will stay in touch.” They should have heard that as an ominous warning. About another hour slipped by. The number of folks was dwindling. Max went upstairs and invited Bret to come down and enjoy a glass of Consuelo’s white Sangria, which was very refreshing. Max was surprised to see Mr. Yost, now comfortably seated in a leather chair watching golf. “Mr. Yost, you are still here.” Max declared. “I presumed that an intelligent man would have figured out by now that he was not welcome here, and graciously left. May I introduce Bret Franklin, Urban Response agent of the FBI. Bret this piece of crap is the realtor I was telling you about. He is tresing and has been warned repeatedly. What should we do with him?”

“If he has taken anything of value I can arrest him, or if he creates a problem, the same thing. I do believe he has done both,” the big man said impatiently. Yost could understand his precarious situation, so he slowly stood up. “You know Wall, we could have done some business here today.” He began walking through the French doors toward the steps that went up to the parking lot. For some unexplainable reason, as he was ing the offices, he reached up and slapped the keypad outside Michael’s door. Instantly a piercing alarm sounded. Max ran to turn it off and Spencer Yost ran for his car. The few folks who were lingering headed for the exits. Max cleared the alarm and was actually gone for several minutes. Using the scrap of paper, he sent an email to Spencer Yost with a subject line, ‘New Listing.” It was only loaded with the Cannibal. He entered Yost’s computer and forwarded the email to both Charlie Weaver and Allen Simms at Premier Properties. Before he exited Yost’s computer, he opened the email and witnessed the death of a new computer. The next morning both Charlie and Premier Properties were wondering what they did to their computer and how in the world they could retrieve all that information that was gone. They eventually ed that it was a Spencer Yost’s email that they opened that caused the grief. The scrap of paper was actually a receipt for routine maintenance for the realtor’s Cadillac, complete with make, model, and serial number. Max ed On Star, requesting the location of the car. There was only a brief hesitation before the authority of the Department of Justice was recognized. Max requested connection with the car to determine its conditions. When he was connected he simply attached the Cannibal, and as soon as he hit ‘enter’ Spencer’s Cadillac died, halfway down Cornell road. The tow truck folks said they had never seen such a full system failure, and postulated that he must have been hit by lightning. Max closed and locked Michael’s door. He found a cluster of his friends waiting in the foyer for him, Sarah, Bret, Hank and the contractors, John and Terry. They all seemed contrite, looking into his face for a sign of the emotion that had to be hidden there. And they all started to speak at the same time. Sarah said, “Oh Max, I’m so sorry this turned out like this. You were right; it was a fiasco waiting to happen.” She gave him a tender hug.

John said, “When I saw the crowd coming, I didn’t know what to do. They just kept walking in. Hank nodded in agreement, saying, “We thought 300 cups would be more than enough for any crowd. We ran out.” Terry had trouble meeting Max’s eyes. “This turned out so badly, because of me. The damned Historical Society people were a bunch of pigs. I’ll be glad to reimburse the food costs. I’m ashamed and embarrassed. Bret asked quietly, “Do you want me to visit Yost?” That brought a shiver to the others, and a degree of understanding to Mr. Cobb, who now comprehended the threat of the resources at Max’s disposal. Max answered him. “It’s O.K. I took care of it myself. I should have been more assertive in my concern for this house. It is such a marvelous transformation that we should have known the interest was uncontrollable. The Home and Garden folks will be back this week to cover the accomplishment. We’ll have it all polished and cleaned again for them.” Both contractors assured him that their cleaning crew would be here immediately to do the clean-up, and they would share in the cost of Consuelo’s hospitality. Sunday morning, after the service, there was a cluster of folks surrounding Max and Sarah like rock stars. Those who had taken advantage of the open house invitation were hoping for another visit, and those who hadn’t were doubly eager to see it. They all marveled at such a magnificent home for a couple who were about to be newlyweds. Bret and Liz stood at the side, smiling. They were about to have their own open house, and it was splendid too.

Suspended!

M onday morning Max was visiting with the family around the kitchen table. Alex was especially impressed with the computer that had such a powerful alarm on the door. It gave Max a whole new level of iration and respect. Max thought he heard Michael’s ping, and excused himself. “Good morning, Max. Mr. Dawson will be with you just as soon as he finishes this call.” Max even liked hearing Double-Oh-Seven put him on hold. “Good morning Max,” that deep rich voice said, “You had quite a day Saturday. Do you want to tell me about it?” “I don’t suppose you are referring to the three hundred plus people, who tromped through the place and enjoyed outstanding hospitality until it ran out, are you?” “While that sounds entertaining, Max, I’m wondering how in the world you came up with disabling a moving car! Man that is epic! I’ve never imagined such a coup, and I’ll bet GM has a new nightmare on its hands.” Max was almost feeling good about the conversation, ready to receive some assignments for the week. “I tried to reason with them,” he said quietly. “I tried to warn them, and finally told them there would be consequences,” he said apologetically. “But Max,” Mr. Dawson growled, “What in the world made you break our cardinal guidelines to take private action against a domestic target? Max, damn it, I made that clear to you. I won’t allow that on my team. You are suspended for two weeks.” The line went dead. Max sat there in shock. “Suspended,” he thought to himself. “What does that mean?” He sat there for a couple minutes, and then decided it meant he had nothing more to do with Michael for a while. He turned him off, and locked the door. His old computer had even more George Fox s. Before he got lost reading

the saved ones, he decided to give Sean a quick note: “Hi Pal. Are you on a late lunch, or do you have a minute to tell me about your travel plans?” He received an almost instant reply.

Sean: “Look who’s talking about a late lunch. I understand you are on a two week vacation! WooHoo”

Max: “The bad part of this job is that keeping a secret is very difficult.”

Sean: “Think about it Bozo. What are you going to be doing for the next two weeks? Tomorrow we’re going to hang with you; Thursday is clothes buying and the rehearsal dinner. By the by, I can’t wait to see your new place. I hear it is worth party crashing to see. Then the wedding and honeymoon. Come on Dude, you weren’t going to work anyway! Dawson is just messin’ wich’chu! He is crazy amazed at your rogue hit. How in the world did you ever think of hooking into On Star? He thinks you are celestial!”

Max: “I’m not smart enough to figure out that ‘on suspension’ is bogus, but what you say makes sense now. What time does your plane get in?” Plans were formulated and schedules set for a busy week.

Rehearsal Dinner

T hursday morning was drizzly, but by afternoon the sky was clearing, and by dinnertime, Mt. Hood was a brilliant reflection of sunset. Max and Sarah were delighted to have eight others seated at the formal table, Eric and Grace, Bret and Liz, Stan and Sue Wall, and Sean with Udiko. They had enjoyed a crab cocktail appetizer. Hank had served a Pinot Grigio for those who wanted wine and ginger ale for Max, Sarah, and Udiko. A bacon, artichoke spinach salad followed; then Hank served Consuelo’s gorgeous Paella, with a Chardonnay wine. Before the crème briolette was served, Max stood to make a toast. “With Sarah, I lift my glass of summer cooler, in thanks to you all for your participation in our wedding? Each of you plays such an important part of the magic we are feeling. Dad and mom, you have been such a profound positive influence. Eric I especially thank you for the planning and preparation that is going to make it seamless and wonderful. Sean and Grace, your friendship has grown through the years until you are an indispensible part of the service. Sean, please don’t forget the rings.” Everyone chuckled. “Bret and Liz, you will make this wedding a precious memory. Almost everyone there has seen weddings that they scarcely . A double wedding is uniquely unforgettable, as is our friendship. You are my team, and our shield. Thank you all sincerely.” They lifted their glass, but Max didn’t sit down. “There will be many guests in the barn. I don’t want the crowd to hide Udiko, Sean’s guest and co-worker in the Department of Justice. We have saved you a front row seat with mom and dad, and want you to feel welcome in this crowd of strangers.” Looking at Bret and Liz, he continued, “Nor do I want you to be surprised by unexpected guests. Liz, your sister Suzanne with her husband Bob, will be here tomorrow; and Bret, your brother Paul and his family will be here tomorrow and Lisa is arriving Saturday morning. So here’s to fresh connections with precious people.” Once again glasses were raised, some in wonder. There was so much to do! But task by task, it was done. Bret and Liz were at the airport to greet Suzanne and Bob, and then later they welcomed Paul and his family. A sound system was rented, as were extra chairs for the loft. Sean met

Lisa’s arrival and the photographer took advantage of an orchard in full bloom to capture priceless pictures. Three buses were parked by the barn. They had brought over a hundred harvest folks who counted it a privilege to attend the wedding. Three seats were saved in the bride’s side front row for Kate Linn and two other young women. Finally all the pieces were ed, the preparations were complete. You know how breathless a sunny spring afternoon can be? It was time for the wedding. Eric and Grace prayed in the farmhouse with the two couples and Eric assured them that he would guide them gently through the next wonderful half hour.

The Wedding

P astor Eric entered down the center aisle, and took his place in front of the table with a large pink rose arrangement. It was a signal which caused the quiet conversations to end. Pachelbel Canon was finally heard over the whispering, so the loft became quiet. Bret came from one front corner and Max came from the other; they were wearing matching burgundy jackets, and stood on each side of the pastor. Sean and Grace walked in arm and arm, and took their places as best man, and “best lady.” An expectant silence held the room until Beethoven’s Ode to Joy was the signal for the brides to them. Wearing pink gowns with lace trim on the collar and cuffs, their pace was not rapid, but when they reached the center aisle, they hooked their arms together and matched one another’s stride. Eric said in a clear voice: “Please rise and greet the brides.” Both smiling graciously, they took their place beside their groom. The pastor said to the gathering: “On behalf of these two couples, I welcome you to this service of matrimony. At the beginning of our time together, let me remind you that we are here to publicly establish a home. The home is the oldest and dearest part of our life together. It existed before the Church, and before the State. It is a fundamental part of our human society. We of the Church believe that the home came into being, by and through, the authority of Almighty God, for the fulfillment and expression of our deepest human needs: to be loved, and to give love. This is therefore, a commitment not entered casually, but rather, thoughtfully, with reverence and respect for one another, and for God who calls us here, and now meets us here. Into this holy moment these come now to be ed. Please be seated”. The service continued, as Eric said, “Because a home exists in concert with others, drawing its meaning and strength from their prayers and loving , let me first direct these questions to the family and friends who gather here, as a traditional part of this ceremony. Do you, acknowledging your joy in this marriage union, pledge your prayerful concern to this couple, vowing to give moral and spiritual when needed, and granting them the freedom to be who they are, as they build their future life together? Will you aid in the Christian nurture of this new home? Do you bless them? I can think of no clearer

sign of your affirmation than applause.” The barn was filled with the affirming sound. Both couples exchanged a glance and a big smile. “Our first reading, from Romans 12 is being read by Steve Wall, the groom’s brother.” A handsome young man stood and read: “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil, cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Live in harmony with one another.” Eric continued, “Bret and Liz,” he turned to the other couple, saying, “Max and Sarah, let me remind you of a truth you are already learning in your life together. Much of life is predictable. It will return to you what you invest in it. That means that if you put the quality investments of trust, respect, loyalty, and openness into it, your home will be a blessing to you and to others; supremely it will be a great satisfaction to you and to God.” “Bret will you have Liz to be your partner, lover, and friend in Christian marriage? Will you take her existence as seriously as your own? Will you love her, comfort her, grow with her in honor, whether in sickness or health, and remain faithful to her as long as you live?” In a strong voice, Bret answered “I will!” There were some happy chuckles over his exuberance. “Liz, will you have Bret to be your partner, lover, and friend in Christian marriage? Will you take his existence as seriously as your own? Will you love him, comfort him, grow with him in honor, whether in sickness or health, and remain faithful to him as long as you live?” “Yes, I will,” she said in a lovely soft voice. The same questions were asked to Max and Sarah, with the same answers, except Sarah answered, “Oh, yes I will!” There was more chuckling for the same reason. Eric announced, “Our second reading is from I Corinthians 13, by Liz’s sister,

Suzanne.” A tall lady in the second row stood and read in a clear voice, “And now I will show you the most excellent way. If I speak in the tongues of men, and yes, even of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love is patient. Love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. Now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” Eric smiled and said to the grooms, “O.K. guys, here comes the scary part. Tell your bride you love her.” Both spoke up tenderly. “Now repeat these vows: ‘I want to spend the remainder of my life - as your husband, - making you happy,and sharing in that happiness. From this day on,- I promise to share my life, openly with you. Your joys are my joys; - your burdens are my burdens; - your prayers are my prayers. I have found you to be - the partner with whom I can laugh and cry, - build and grow, live and love. No matter what comes to us, - I pledge you my faith, - to uphold you, and live with you,- in the joy of God’s love.” The brides then used the same words to pledge their love to their grooms. Speaking to the audience, Pastor Eric said, “The wedding ring is an outward and visible witness for the entire world to see; a symbol of the new relationship that exists between a bride and groom. Fashioned with our most precious material, it is crafted to last a lifetime, an unending circle of love.” The grooms took the rings from a small box on the table. Eric invited them to repeat after him: “I give you this ring - as a seal of our marriage. I pledge you my love - as long as I live.” “Ladies, repeat after me: ‘In receiving this ring - I receive you as my husband.’” The brides then took the other rings from the box on the table and repeated after the pastor; “I give you this wedding ring as another seal of our marriage. I

pledge you my love as long as I live.” The men replied, “In receiving this ring, - I do receive you as my wife.” While the couples were still holding hands, Eric said, “Because you have consented to be ed in the holy bonds of matrimony, and have given witness to the sacredness of your vows, and your love, before God, and this gathering of your family and closest friends, because you have committed your love and loyalty to one another in sacred promises with the giving and receiving of wedding rings, I affirm that God has ed you as wife and husband. Let all people here and everywhere recognize and respect this sacred union, now and forever more.” He bowed, in prayer, saying “Gracious, Ever Loving Lord God, in this tender moment of matrimony, we ask your bleson Bret and Liz, Max and Sarah. We give you thanks and praise for all that has brought us to this tender moment, for family, co-workers, and friends. We are woven together in a divine design that flows toward an ultimate good. Lord, we ask that you bless them with patience and positive perspective. Bless their home with your Peace that es our human understanding. We ask all of this that the beauty of your teachings might be made manifest in their life together, a rich life, a long life, abundant in Jesus’ name. Amen.” Again smiling broadly, Eric spread his hands wide saying, “Go in joy! Go in peace. Go in God’s amazing Love, always!” He added, “A kiss is the best seal of the ceremony.” It was also the signal for applause. Once again the loft was filled with the happy sound, and the recorded music of a Mariachi band set the rhythm of celebration.

You know those afternoons that are so perfect your face hurts from smiling? A reception line was formed out on the big balcony deck, so folks could congratulate the wedding couples on the way out. Most chose first the hospitality at the other end of the loft, the champagne and traditional Mexican wedding cookies. It was truly the spirit of fiesta! All the guests from Mountaintop, however, agreed that the orchard was the most beautiful place on the planet, this day! The crowd had pretty much disbursed when Sarah noticed that Kate Linn was

waiting to chat with her. She was still with the two young women, or more likely, they were still with her. Sarah said she had not had an opportunity for a glass of champagne with Max, so she invited them all over to the hospitality table where the bride and groom toasted one another and kissed again. A beaming Sarah then said, “Kate, I’m so glad you were here. We saved the front seats for you because you are more like my family than anyone I know” They hugged because words were no longer adequate. Kate said, “The wedding was marvelous. Only you would choose a barn, in the middle of all these blooming trees. It’s spectacular! There must be a poem in here someplace. Sarah and Max, I’d like to introduce Lacy Hamm, and Theresa Homestead to you. Lacy wants to become a gymnastics coach. She placed second in the Oregon Invitational All Around this year. Theresa is interested in medicine and will either become a nurse, or pediatrician. It sort of depends on the availability of a school. She has tested in the top two percentiles for either career, so we have high hopes. These women are our selection for the George Fox scholarships.” Sarah shook their hands and then Max, who said, “You can guess that we have been a bit distracted with a new house and a wedding. When we get back from a few days at the beach, do you think you could come to Portland for an evening?” The young women nodded and Kate said, “Probably a Friday evening would work best for me.” “Then let’s schedule it for the 29th. Does Sarah have information?” Kate offered him her business card which had her email written on the back, “Now you guys, need to be gone from here. This is not a time to do business. It was a lovely wedding. Let me tell you again how proud I am of you. My warmest wishes go with you.” She gave them both a tender embrace. Max and Sarah had dinner at the Chart House, and then found the privacy of their lovely bedroom, where Sarah found that arousal was no problem at all. The next morning they drove to Cannon Beach, where they had reservations for the top suite of The Inn. They did walk on the beach a little, but her happiest discovery was that afternoons were her favorite time for lovemaking, with the lights on. What was Grace’s advice? “You must accentuate the positive!”

They were just getting ready to drive back to Portland, enjoying one final Inn breakfast. Sarah leaned across the table to hold Max’s hand, saying “This has been such a life lesson to me.” He got that boyish grin on his face and she quickly said, “I mean about more than that!” Her smile was playful as well. “Max, I mean when I think about all the challenges of the past four months that could have been insurmountable obstacles but just turned out to be simple things that we talked our way through. Dr. Rita was convinced there are some conflicts that have no solution. You have me convinced there is no such thing, if we can talk our way through it together.” “Maybe it’s because we both read, ‘For One Another,’” He said. Maybe it is because we are so mellow after the past four days, but right now I think I’m in agreement. I can’t imagine a challenge that we can’t handle, if we talk about it.” He gave her hand a little squeeze, and she returned it. “Hey Max,” she asked playfully, “how long will it take us to get home?” She giggled and kissed him.

New Beginning

A s he drove up the hill to the house, Max said, “So much has happened since we were here, it feels like a long time.” Sarah added, “Such wonderful stuff has happened. I’m eager to unpack my clothes.” Eventually Max got to Michael. As soon as he was booted, a lengthy list of assignments appeared under the request to Mr. Dawson. Max was surprised that he would still be in his office, but he called anyway, “Good evening Max.” That voice was so soft and warm. “Mr. Dawson has given me several notes to along to you. The first being that you are hereby fully reinstated to your post and duties of the Department of Justice, and urged in the future to conduct your activities in strict adherence of our cardinal rules and limitations. Secondly he compliments you on your choice of wedding site, and sends his warmest congratulations. It even looked to him that our former agents were included, and quite happy about it.” Max pondered that it must have been Udiko recording the ceremony on her cell phone. “Next, Mr. Dawson wants you to know that two more chemical disposal seizures have been deemed abandoned; the rewards will be forwarded to your .” Max thought, ‘there’s another deposit for Zurich.’ “Finally, Max, this lengthy list of assignments has been accumulating while you’ve been on suspension. You will understand seizures, but the ones under the heading ‘Intervention,’ must be destroyed immediately, without prejudice or consideration. It is nice to speak to you again, Max. I have missed you.” The line went dead before he could tell Double-Oh-Seven that he had sort of missed her too. By the time Consuelo had supper prepared, Max had delivered a lethal connection to over thirty computers. It was easy to connect, open, install, and then insert the Cannibal. It only took a minute or less for intervention to take place. He would get to the seizures in the morning. At the same time that Max was working with Michael, Sarah was on the phone with Eddie. She wanted to express her gratitude for all he had done to make the wedding such a wonderful memory. Then she heard about the preparations that

were beginning for another outstanding harvest season. Finally they had a lengthy conversation that would eventually include Max. Her heart was happier than she could ever . Saturday morning Max was up early. He invited Sarah to be lazy and stay under the covers for a while. “I’ve got a week’s work to catch up on Michael.” About nine o’clock she came downstairs to tell him that Consuelo was making a waffle breakfast. Minutes later, as he pushed his empty plate away, she said, “I hope we can study page 161 this afternoon.” Max was certain he understood which book she was intending, and he was convinced that all his work with Michael would be finished early. Sunday was another great worship service followed by the Delectable Deli. Bret and Liz were eager to talk about the preceding week, and were surprised that Max and Sarah were so smugly quiet. On the way home Sarah told Max she was having the orchard appraised. “Since the Loreto’s are visiting friends in Buena Vista, I thought we might study page 171 this afternoon.” Her smile left no shadow of a doubt what she had in mind. Isn’t a honeymoon just great? Wednesday evening Sarah shared with Max the nature of a conversation she had with Eddie. “He has been a great manager for ten years”, she began. “If the orchard was within easy driving distance I would be inclined to keep it. I love it, but I love this house so much more. I love being in it with you. You demonstrated something for me when you sold Tri-X. There is such a thing as too much success; it’s like too much traffic on the road. The orchard, the ing Service, Tri-X, George Fox, the FBI, we have been close to gridlock, especially now that I want lots of personal time with you. You sold TriX to free up some time, and I’m going to do the same with the orchard. I’d like to sell it to Eddie, and I think I have a ten year plan for that to work. I think I can hire two more ants and be in the office only mornings when I want. It will perk along without me. I think the FBI is that same thing for you. You caught up with the work of two weeks in two days. George Fox is a question mark with me. I don’t know what I can do, or what you might need.” Max was thoughtful for a moment, then replied, “That’s a good analogy. If it is the most gorgeous highway in the world, when it’s gridlocked, you can’t get anywhere on it. We need to spend some time thinking about new goals, new dreams.” When he saw her playful smile, he added, “Yes, that is wonderful. I am delighted with our intimacy. When you have your period you’ll probably want to

catch your breath.” “Well, I’ve been thinking about page 271, if you’ll let me try.”

Friday was an overcast chilly day, not the sort you would choose if showing the new house to friends. Eric and Grace arrived first, then Kate, who brought a dinner partner, Nate Young, who worked at DHSH. Lacey Hamm and Theresa Homestead were shy but very interested in the old house. Hank, Alex and Juanita ed the group standing in the kitchen, enjoying Consuelo’s Sangria, or Ginger Ale as introductions were complete. Max gathered their attention by asking, “Would you like to play a happy game?” When they turned toward him, their host said, “I have heard it said that most of us are as happy as we make up our minds to be. I saw on the internet a list of twenty things that will make us happy. Can you imagine what they might be? What makes you happy?” Alex was quick to respond: “Play a game, win or lose, it improves your skill.” Consuelo said, “Smile. It’s good for your face, even strangers like to receive one.” Nate said, “Go for a walk, it clears your mind.” Lacey said, “I call a friend. It reminds me that others care for me too.” Sarah said, “I like to try something new. Sometime habits are too comfortable.” Theresa said, “I like to unplug my mind from social media, especially Facebook.” Max said, Singing out loud makes me happy, in the shower, car, or church.” Folks were getting into the game, with a growing enthusiasm. Grace said, “Volunteering makes me happy. I know I have made a positive difference, and possibly met a new friend. Kate said, “I like to make a gratitude list. It shifts me to a higher positive feeling.

Consuelo said, “I like to try a dish with fava beans, they are full of dopamine. Juanita said, “I love to take some time off, with no agenda but simply see my world.” Grace said, “I like to practice yoga, to stretch and relax even my mind.” Sarah said, “I’m happy when I find the courage to start something new.” Consuelo said again, “I have fun in the kitchen when I try a new recipe.” Eric finally said, “I’m happy when I meditate. It clears my mind.” Hank ed in, “I’m happy when I can give a compliment, and mean it.” Nate said, “I like to declutter my desk or my head. It always makes new space.” It was quiet for a moment while people thought of something else to add. Finally Theresa said, “I’m happy if I can stay in the moment without doubt or dread.” Hank chuckled, “I’m happy with a siesta. It unwinds my mind.” Max said, “I’ve been trying to jot all these splendid suggestions into a “Happy List.” I’ll see if I can organize it a bit and send it to you in an email. Let’s bow for a prayer. “Gracious Gift-giving Lord God, in the midst of such goodness we thank you for this spring day, this home of hospitality, this table fare of abundance. We accept all these as gifts from your loving heart. Lord, help us receive and use these gifts in such a way that we would ever be a credit to ourselves, a help to others, and a joy to you. We ask this in Jesus’ name Amen.” He invited them to find a place in the dining room. There was ample room for them all to be seated at the table where Consuelo had placed two serving bowls of beef stew and platters of corn bread. “It’s a simple meal,” she said brightly, “followed by Mr. Max’s favorite, Brownies with Rum Raisin ice cream.” The stew was anything but simple, it was fantastic! Finally with desserts finished and beverage glasses refilled, Max introduced the topic of discussion. “I’ve had several conversations with Dr. Lloyd Carter, at

George Fox College about Dottie’s Foundation. First he wants me to extend his greeting to you, Kate. He re you and Bradley fondly. He also has given me permission to bring our first flight of freshmen students any time. The Registrar is looking forward to a wonderful new beginning. We have a month to get our paperwork in, and classes chosen. That way you can use the entire summer to get a head start on reading assignments. You have before you a copy of class schedules from which you can choose, and dorm selections.” Alex raised his hand. With a big grin, Max asked as a teacher might, “Yes, Alex?” “Mr. Max is it necessary for us to be in the dormitories?” he asked politely. At first Max assumed that he implied the dorms would be substandard. But then the young man explained. “I believe Newburg is only a 35 minute drive from here, isn’t it?” When he received an affirmative nod, he continued. “Since housing costs twice as much as tuition, I wonder if it wouldn’t be more efficient for us to live here at home and commute to school. If we could work out the schedules with lots of library time, we could either get more years of schooling, or more folks in the program, for less money.” He was already thinking like an . Theresa, who had scarcely said a word during the supper, now asked, “If we could do that, perhaps we could take some on-line courses to fill in the gaps.” Her fragile smile tried to show fresh possibility. “George Fox has a great nursing and pre med program, and Portland University has an even broader one on-line.” Grace mused, “I can recall how diligent Sarah was to complete her Bachelor’s degree on-line.” Juanita said softly, “I could do most of the George Fox education classes on-line, too, if I had a computer.” Max had his big grin as he looked at Sarah. “Do you see this taking a slightly new course?” he asked her. “How many of you have a laptop computer?” No hands were raised. Then directing his gaze toward Grace and Kate, he asked, “Are there other outstanding candidates you know, who might be able to begin their education on-line, like another student we know?” Kate answered, “Sarah is the most outstanding scholar I have ever met, so she’s a very high standard to compare. But I can think of one or two who have the

talent, but not the opportunity to progress. You know our State must stop when a child turns eighteen. Then they are on their own. “But Dottie’s Foundation,” Max said firmly, “is pledging to these students for as far as they can go.” Then looking at the four, he asked, “Who would like to live in a college dorm?” No hand was raised. “Well then, who would like to live here and commute to school?” All four raised their hands. He looked at Sarah and said, “Sweetie, I believe there are a couple more new girls coming to live here. Can you help them become comfortable?” Sarah smiled first toward, Max, then the girls, then Miss Kate, saying, “I do believe I can do that.” Max said, “I’m happy when I know that the future is good. It’s going to be great!”

Finis: “No Longer Alone”

About the Author

After serving in the US Navy, Norm O’Banyon was a church pastor until retirement. Being Irish, as well as earning a doctorate in storytelling, he has also written the following:

—Caribbean Treasures, the narrative of a ten-day charter cruise —A Walk with the Wind: The Saga of the First Nation Shaman Named Thunder —age to Peace: A Journey to Forgiveness —Tomorrow’s Memories: A Journey beyond Fear —No Longer Guilty: A Story of Salvation —The Corruption of Father Mike, a love story —I Hear You!: A Novel of the Supernatural —Invasion! A surprising science fiction story set in the nineteenth century