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Beth returns from Rome, and walks straight back into danger..
Beth unlocks the door slowly, dreading the censure of her family after being gone for so long with a man she has no intent to marry..to the City of the Whore of Babylon. Father Michael sits in the living room of Beth's home, chatting quietly with her Mother over a cup of te. Beth blinks, rather startled to see anyone there, much less..a priest? Father Michael plays with his crucifix, Beth's mother seemingly hanging on his every word. Beth edges back toward the door. She doesn't want to be seen by her mother, not in front of company. Father Michael tilts his head slightly as if someone were whispering in his ear. He then looks towards the door at Beth and smiles. It is a smile which would make the devil uncomfortable. "Why, here is your daughter now." Beth freezes. Caught. Even after so long in Rome, she still gets that deer-in-headlights look. Father Michael says, "PLease Beth, come join us, your mother and I were just talking about you." That's what she's afraid of. It's been a long trip, and she's tired. But she draws up her courage and gamely proceeds into the room. Father Michael smiles and sets his tea down. Apparently whatever he has been saying to Beth's mother has been working as she is quite jovial and doesn't seem at all angry. Beth nods a greeting, smiling a little. "Hello, Ma...Father." Father Michael nods to Beth and then to her mother. Her mother then stands and walks over to Beth, hugging her. She says to her daughter, "I'm so proud of you.." Beth takes a breath and then hugs her mother back, totally floored. "I..uh..." Father Michael says, "I was just telling your mother of the great work you were doing for the church Beth...she's been worried...but I assured you it was for the best."" You say, "Ah..oh. You mean the missionary work at the shelter?" Father Michael says, "Well, that as well...but also your...secret mission to Rome." Beth looks ever more floored now. You say, "Sir?...I mean..?" Father Michael smiles. "Yes yes...I know..I know. Of course, what trip to Rome. There was no trip to Rome. Very hush hush..." Father Michael winks at Beth and puts a finger to his lips. "So dedicated. Father William will be very proud." Beth swallows and manages "I do my best, Father." Father Michael says, "As always, your life is an honor to God." You say, "I will always do my best, sir. I don't think...I know you?" Father Michael says, "No no, I don't think we've ever formally met. I'm an associate of Brother Jonas, my church is part of the ABCCM."" Beth's lip trembles ever so slightly. "You are? Is there..word of him?" Father Michael frowns. "Mmm..no...no...but I think your work in Rome may be what we need to find him." Beth is about to question, then glances at her mother. "I hope he may be found safely, Father." Father Michael says, "Yes, well, that remains to be seen... the church has a few questions we'd like to ask you about your trip. I know you must be tired but the sooner...the better."" You say, "I'll do my best to answer, Father." Father Michael looks over at Beth's mother. "Well? Would it be allright if I kept Beth from you just a tad bit longer?" Father Michael smiles as he fingers his crucifix and Beths'mother nods amiably. Beth steps toward the priest, letting her bag down from her shoulder. Father Michael puts out his hand and, looking Beth up and down says, "Shall we take my car?" Beth nods. "Yes, sir. I don't have one running right now. The inspection expired." Father Michael says, "Well, we'll have to get that taken care of, won't we?" Beth follows the priest to his car, waving to her mother. She looks exhausted now, not quite to the point of reeling, but pretty tired. Father Michael looks back over his shoulder as he leads Beth out, "Don't worry, I'll take care of her."
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