“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”
~~Anne Lamott
Hi all,

I actually hit a point yesterday when I was writing quite a lot so I'm hoping to get back into that today.  Thus, I haven't written anything new for today.  So please enjoy this excerpt from the story I'm currently working on.  It picks up directly where the previous excerpt in JABB 571 left off.

I hope everyone is staying well!

God bless,
Jenni


Please read part one first.  The following is set on March 13, 2020. 

Andrew wasn't exactly sure what he thought JenniAnn's response to his agreement with her parents would be.  Relief?  Gratitude?  Nervousness?  It turned out to be all of the above.

"Oh good!  Thank you!" she enthused, hugging him.  "I was thinking we could use their house for deliveries and such but then I felt selfish thinking we'd have people traipsing around there, putting them at risk, and yet keeping them away.  And... and I did hate the idea of... of not seeing them for weeks."

Andrew smiled. 

"I'm glad you're on board.  Not that I expected otherwise.  But where do you want them to stay?"

"Well, I think we should have them here.  I mean... seems rude to not.  Although..."  JenniAnn's face colored.

"What?"

"That could be... interesting."

"How so?"

"I honestly... and maybe this is my fault... I don't think they have any idea of the nature of our relationship.  Not really.  And maybe I should have explained but... who wants to talk about that with their parents?"

Andrew bowed his head.  He talked about everything with his Father.  But then that was different...

"Last month when Mom brought Belle home after a trip to the zoo, I was folding laundry.  And she saw one of my nightgowns.  The little, pink, strappy one, ya know?"

Andrew nodded.  He liked the little, pink, strappy one.

"She gave me the weirdest look.  So I just hid it beneath some of your T-shirts and asked how Belle had done."

Chuckling, Andrew shook his head.

"Well, it's not like we're going to put them up in our room!"

"No.  And I'm not leaving this room without my robe.  But I'm also not yanking on flannel pajama bottoms just to make breakfast... although I suppose maybe I should start getting dressed first, anyway.  All those people..."

Andrew pulled her close and rested his chin on her hair.

"It'll be fine, Laja.  Give them some credit.  It's not like I'd be comfortable having to contemplate what goes on between Rose and Max.  I try not to."

"True..."

"And we're...different.  It's natural to be curious and a little confused."

"I suppose."

"And maybe it wouldn't be the worst thing in the world for them to come out of this experience with a little clarity."

"No... probably not."  JenniAnn sighed.  "But now..."  She reached into Andrew's pocket and checked his watch.  "Portia and Graham are doing a follow-up in fifteen minutes so..."  She gestured towards the computer.

Andrew heaved a sigh.

"All right..." 

A soft knock on their open door caused the two to turn around.  They found Shelby peering at them.

"Hi.  I was just wondering if I could sit with you during the meeting?" she requested.

"Sure, sweetie."  JenniAnn gestured her into the room.  "Where's Belle?"

Shelby smiled.

"Playing with Takoda's hair."

Andrew chuckled. 

"He's a good sport.  We'll fill him in later then."

"I'm just gonna check and make sure Avi's still sleeping.  Can you get us logged in?"

Andrew nodded to JenniAnn.

"Sure."

Once she'd stepped into Avi's nursery, Andrew moved another chair in front of the computer.  He motioned for Shelby to sit.

"How ya doing, kiddo?" he checked.

Shelby shrugged.

"Okay, I guess.  It... it was hard leaving the Tunnels but..."  She sighed.  "I'm glad I'm here."

Andrew gave her a squeeze.

"I am, too."

"I... I just wonder how long it's gonna be?  Do you think we'll find out tonight?"

"We might find out more about the Sibling Cities' plans.  But I don't think anyone but God knows how long this whole situation will last."

"Were you around during previous pandemics, Andrew?  I mean... I know you were alive.  But on Earth?"

Andrew's face clouded.

"I... I have been."

Shelby hugged his arm.

Andrew could tell she didn't want any more information about those experiences.  At least not yet.  He kissed her hair and said no more.

"Out cold," JenniAnn announced as she re-entered the room.  "Anyone on yet?"

"A few."  Andrew pointed to the screen.  "Hi, Isolde.  Hi, Marco.  Zeke, Diana, hi."

"Hey."

"Hi there."

"How you all doing?" Zeke asked.

No one spoke for a few moments.

"This is just... weird," Isolde responded.  "And... and not entirely unfamiliar."

Andrew nodded gravely.  Isolde and Marco, too, had been around for previous pandemics. 

"Where are you two?" Diana questioned.

"We're holed up in our cabin with wee Bram," Isolde replied. 

"I thought maybe you'd stay in New York since restaurants are essential businesses.  But I'm glad you're here!" JenniAnn cheered.

Isolde looked away from the screen.

Marco wrapped an arm around her shoulders and nodded.

"The restaurant is staying open.  We talked about it and..."

"I... I nearly lost him once to TB.  I... I can't risk it," Isolde bleated.

"It's okay, mo cailin.  I understand," Marco assured, nuzzling her hair before looking back into the camera.  "I hated the idea of closing and denying our regulars that comfort with everything going on.  But... I can't argue with that.  Thankfully, Luis and some of the others really stepped up.  Even though I offered to close but continue paying... they wanted to stay open.  Even if it turns out to only be for delivery and take-out.  So they are."

"I think you're doing the right thing, Marco," Andrew assured, trying to conceal his own relief.  He didn't relish the idea of anyone going in and out of Dyeland on a daily basis unless absolutely necessary.

"Thanks, Andrew.  Means a lot.  I feel a little guilty about it but..."  Marco smiled at Isolde.  "I know it's the right decision."

"We're all going to have to make some hard decisions," Diana murmured.

Zeke patted her on the back.

"We are.  We, uh, spoke to Sy and Ivy, Andrew.  Thank you for your kind offer.  I know it gives them a lot of comfort.  I'm just sorry..."

Andrew felt a lump forming in his throat... and he wondered if that was going to become a daily happening now.  He glanced at JenniAnn whose head was bowed.  He could see the tears trailing down her cheeks.  He hoped that wasn't going to become daily...

"Maybe... maybe we can figure something out," the angel suggested, desperate to offer some relief.  "Portia and Graham gave us a deadline of Sunday.  Maybe we can have the wedding tomorrow.  In the chapel out back.  Still very limited attendance... but you could come.  And your girls and Manny.  And Doreen and Mark if they want."

Isolde's eyes lit up. 

"Oh... if you could make that work, it would mean so much to the kids!  I... I still wish me own parents coulda been at our wedding.  Marco's too."

Diana and Zeke both smiled through their tears.

"Are... are you sure you're comfortable with that, Andrew?" Zeke checked.

JenniAnn squeezed Andrew's hand tightly.

"I am.  Really."  Andrew smiled at the computer and nodded.

Diana wept into Zeke's shoulder.

"That's wonderful, Andrew.  Thank you.  Truly.  We'll take our own car to St. G's and use the portal there.  That way there's limited possibility of us tracking anything in.  And we'll wash our hands as soon as we get there!"

Andrew chuckled.

"I'm sure we're all going to be very fastidious about our hand washing.  Might be a good time to start selling those hand lotions you make, huh, Laja?" he joked, hoping for a laugh.

JenniAnn smiled.

"I don't think I'm setup for that.  But I'll start making some up for whomever wants some.  It'll keep me busy in any case."

"I'll help you," Shelby offered.

"Thanks, sweetie.  That'd be nice."

Over the next few minutes, the screen populated with more and more images of the Friends.  At exactly 7 PM, Portia and Graham began.

"Thanks, everyone, for coming back.  And for everyone who missed this afternoon, we sent out an email covering everything.  We've since had some questions which is what we'd like to address now," Portia began. 

"And we anticipate more questions as we go through this so keep those coming," Graham added.

"Absolutely.  Now, first question... 'do we anticipate schools closing?'" Portia read.  "Well, as we said earlier, the Tunnels have gone to remote learning.  We certainly hope that schools elsewhere will follow suit but we just don't know."

"A lot of Omaha has spring break next week," JenniAnn interjected.  "And it sounds like many of them are going straight to remote learning after that.  And we don't even have much of an outbreak at all right now so...  I'm betting others will follow suit."

"I really hope so," Shane replied.  "It's a battle to keep everything disinfected as is.  And Diana's and my school is packed.  Although... I am worried about my kids who don't have internet access.  We all take it for granted but..."  He shook his head.

Portia sighed.

"It's a concern.  And one that, unfortunately, we have very little control over.  But, Shane and Diana, if you need help printing packets or anything, speak up.  I'm sure several of us have printers."

Nearly half of the Friends nodded.

"Thanks!" Diana cheered.  "I really appreciate that.  I think they'll probably let Shane and I into the school long enough to do that.  But we'll keep it in mind."

"Buy stamps," Mick encouraged.  "I wasn't born for the Spanish Flu pandemic... shockingly... but my mom used to talk about it.  They had to quarantine then and she used to talk about how much it meant to get letters and cards from loved ones.  You could do that with your kids who are offline."

"Great idea!" Shane applauded.  "Thanks, Mick!" 

"I think it'd be nice to send stuff even amongst ourselves," Portia added.  "So stamps are a good idea for everyone."

"What about the folks in Dyeland?" Peter asked.  "USPS doesn't exactly go there."

"You could send it to our house," Allison offered.  "Just address the outer envelope to us.  Andrew's volunteered to collect deliveries from our place."

"And I can disperse stuff, too," Andrew added.

"Is there any concern about COVID being transmitted via mail, though?" Sean questioned.

"Jury's still out on how long it survives on surfaces.  But I would just avoid opening a letter and then touching your face," Graham counseled.  "Andrew, maybe you could discard the outer envelope at the Chandlers' house."

"Planning on it!"

"Then it should be fine," Graham ventured.  "The bottom line is we can't go into total lockdown.  I don't think any of us are in the position of being completely self-sufficient when it comes to food.  Some stuff is going to have to come in.  But we can be safe about it."

"Exactly," Portia affirmed.  "Now... next question: 'If some of us stay home for two weeks and don't go anywhere else AND remain asymptomatic... could we move about among the portals more freely?'"  She frowned and cocked her head.  "First of all, I'm more comfortable with three weeks.  Second of all... we just don't know how this is going to play out.  I mean it would be great if, after these initial few weeks, we could at least open the portal from the Tunnels to Dyeland.  Because I do have concerns about those who are used to going Topside or to Dyeland not adjusting well to the lack of sunlight.  And, as much as it pains me to say it, Dyeland is going to be safer than Topside.  But for others... how would you get to a portal?  If public transportation was going to be used, that would concern me.  Even walking...  I just don't know.  So... short answer: we'll have to see.  Even if we did do that, I think best practice would be to have the folks from the Tunnels... or elsewhere... stay at least six feet away from the Dyelanders.  And possibly wear masks."

Andrew glanced at JenniAnn and Shelby who both appeared encouraged by this possibility.  He weighed it against his own concern.

"In follow-up to that we have: 'If a bunch of us stay at St. G's and don't leave, can we access the portal after an initial quarantine?'"  Graham dragged a hand through his hair then smiled gratefully at Owen who stroked his back.  "As much as I would love to say yes... I just don't see that as being at all workable.  There's one shower, for starters.  And we also don't know what sort of rules are going to be rolled out.  If there's a stay-at-home order...  St. G's is not a home.  If someone figured out what was going on..."

Emma cleared her throat.

"That... that was my question.  But you're right.  As... as much as I hate the idea of being cut-off and stuck in our own apartments and houses... this is temporary.  Maybe a long temporary.  But temporary.  I'd hate to do permanent damage to St. G's reputation."

"It was a really nice thought, Em," Kylie encouraged.  "But... yeah."

"So...  Superstar is definitely not happening this year, I take it?" Eric asked, wincing as he did.

Peter nodded.

"Afraid so.  But Emma and I talked about it and... we were thinking maybe we could stream it.  Joshua's version.  Sorry, Eric.  That would mean you wouldn't be..."

"No!  No reason to apologize.  I'm all for streaming Joshua's version."

"Great!  Anyway, we thought maybe we could do that on the nights we would have normally had a show.  And maybe, each night, whomever is available could do a Facebook live thing with patrons.  Or something like that," Peter suggested.  "So... it'll still happen, in a manner."

The others wildly applauded the idea.

Portia grinned.

"I think that settles that.  I love it.  I think everyone's going to have to look into how to adjust traditions.  And that's a perfect solution.  And now... back to the questions.  Let's see... okay, 'What are we supposed to do if we think we might have it?'" she read.  "And, just for the record, this person states they do NOT believe they have it.  Just thinking ahead.  Good.  Well, like we said earlier, we can get tests but we want to make sure there's good reason to use a test.  So call Graham or myself and we'll evaluate.  I think it's safe to say we'll be more willing to test than many officials across the country.  But, again, we don't want to over-do it.  For one thing... the test isn't a very pleasant experience.  But... definitely worthwhile if we have a suspicion someone has COVID."

"Should we start wearing masks?" Raquel asked.

Portia and Graham paused to consider their answers.

Before they could settle on one, Andrew spoke.

"If you're somewhere with reported cases, it can't hurt," he replied.  "Especially for anyone over sixty or with pre-existing conditions.  I know it's not typical in the U.S. but in other countries, it's very common to wear a mask when there's a contagious disease going around."

"But in Dyeland?" Raquel pressed.

Andrew glanced over at JenniAnn who had set a hand on his arm.  He suddenly became aware that his heart was racing.  He'd assumed Raquel meant to leave...

"Oh... Umm, no.  No, I don't think so.  I was thinking more if people went to highly populated places.  Portia?  Graham?" he prompted.

"I think that's right," Portia agreed.  "Some people might see it as premature but, if it makes you more comfortable, I think you should."

"Oh, I'm not planning on going anywhere.  I suppose it's just more top of mind for me because Nico keeps getting all these emails from his old cruise ship buddies and it just sounds... awful," Raquel concluded.

"It does..." an off-screen Nico agreed.

"What would be nice is if the crafty among us could start making masks," Graham suggested.  "We're already seeing some shortages.  I worry that places where, by necessity, people are in close quarters won't be able to buy them.  Places like shelters."

"We're already running into that," Arthur asserted.  "So any help would be appreciated."

"What he said," Amber-Marie agreed.  "Although we do have quite a few people here who are handy with sewing so we might be fine."

"If you think it's okay, I could get to St. G's and the rest of the fabric remnants," Peter suggested.  "We still have a lot even after using so much to make hijabs last year.  I could drop them off at places through the portal.  I wouldn't stick around.  I mean literally drop them and go."

"That'd be really great, Peter.  Thank you!"  Graham smiled.  "If you could use some fabric, please get in touch with Peter.  Once you have it, wash it first.  Wherever you donate them will wash the completed masks, I'm sure."

"We will!  Thanks to any takers!  I know I... I can count of all of you," Arthur praised.

Andrew looked down at his and JenniAnn's linked hands when he saw Monica rest her head on the man's shoulder, knowing his friend would soon be parted from her anam cara.

"It looks like those are all the questions we have for now," Portia informed the group.  "Let's plan to do this again.  Maybe sometime Sunday in case any last minute things come up that need attention?"

A chorus of agreement sounded.

"All right.  Take care, everyone.  We'll talk soon!"  Graham waved to the screen.

The other Friends followed suit and then, one by one, their images disappeared.

Andrew exited the meeting.

JenniAnn heaved a sigh.

Shelby sniffled.

"After that... I think we need an impromptu ice cream party," Andrew announced, wanting to cheer the two.

Shelby and JenniAnn both smiled at him. 

"You really want to give Belle a bunch of sugar right before bed?" JenniAnn checked.

Andrew grinned.

"It'll be fine.  Shelby's the one who has to stay with her, anyway."

"Hey!" the teenager protested.  "But... ice cream does sound really good..."

Andrew pulled her into a hug.

"Then we gotta do it."  He sighed happily.  "I'm glad you're here, Shel."

JenniAnn beamed as Shelby wrapped her arms around Andrew's middle.

"Me too." 

"And me three."  JenniAnn gently smoothed some hair behind the girl's ear.  "Our first baby..."

"Aww..."  Shelby's face flushed as she hugged JenniAnn. 

Together, the trio left the room to rally the others and feast.
*~*~*

Later that night, Andrew looked up from his Kindle and watched as JenniAnn paced their room, brushing her hair.  She looked exhausted.

"Laja?"

"Hmm?"

"Could I do that for you?"

JenniAnn halted and cocked her head.

"Do what?"

Andrew blinked.

"Your hair.  Brush your hair."

Laughing, JenniAnn shook her head.

"Duh.  Sorry.  It's just my mind..."  She sighed.  "Yes, please.  That'd be really nice."

Smiling, Andrew took the brush from her.  Once she was settled in front of him, he began to gently untangle her mane.  After a few strokes, he paused upon hearing a soft noise.

"Laja..."

JenniAnn's shoulders quaked.

"Oh, Laja..."

Turning around, JenniAnn buried her face in the angel's chest.

"Beloved..."  Andrew enfolded her in his arms and kissed her hair, tears welling in his own eyes.

"I... I hate this..." she moaned. 

"I know..."  Andrew nuzzled her hair.  "I know, Laja."

"What if... if I can't hug Vincent for... for months?  A... a year even?  What if... if someone dies?  What if we've already seen someone in... in person for... for the last time?  And... and what if, in spite of our efforts, I get it?  Then I won't be able to nurse Avi and... and what if he feels abandoned?  I should have weaned him...  It... it was stupid and selfish not to but... but I know that once I do, I... I never will again and..."

Andrew gently but firmly gripped JenniAnn's shoulders and pulled her away from him when it sounded like she was beginning to hyper-ventilate.

"Whoa.  Whoa, whoa, whoa, Laja.  Deep breath."

JenniAnn obeyed.

"Another one. Good..."  Andrew smiled encouragingly as he caressed her cheek for a few, silent moments.  His smile faded when he resumed speaking.  "Laja, this is going to be difficult.  There's no way around that.  It'll be very sad if you can't hug Vincent for a long time.  But you can talk to him, you can write to him.  And I truly believe that, one day, you'll be able to hug him as much as you'd like." 

"Yeah...  I... I guess."

"And it'll be very, very sad if someone dies.  Terribly sad.  I... I wish I could say that won't happen but I just... I don't know.  What I do know is that, even if the worst did happen, we will see them again.  We'll have an eternity with them.  That doesn't mean the time apart won't be difficult.  But it's nice to have that hope even in the worst of circumstances."

JenniAnn silently nodded.

"I also think everyone is taking this very, very seriously.  Not a single person scoffed at the restrictions.  No one is going to be reckless which means chances are better that no one will get seriously sick.  And we're gonna do everything we possibly can to keep you well so don't worry about Avi.  And, personally, I'm glad you're still nursing him.  We won't have to worry about stocking up on formula, right?"

"That's true..."

"And he'll let you know when he wants to quit."

"Yeah, I spose."

Andrew could tell something was still bothering his anam cara.

"What else do you have on your mind?" he gently prompted.

"It... it's just goofy and so... utterly minor compared to what other people are facing," JenniAnn confessed.

"Still, it's bothering you.  So I want to hear about it."

JenniAnn sighed.

"Well, I'm just a lil nervous about having my parents here.  I mean I'm super glad they will be.  But I just keep thinking of all that could go wrong and what they might say and how I'll cope, especially when you're off working assignments and..."

Andrew perked up.

"I never told you!" he blurted out.  "I'm sorry, Laja.  I just got so wrapped up in preparations and then the group meeting that I forgot.  God put me on leave, so to speak.  Joshua told me earlier.  He wants me to focus on things here.  I'm not going to be leaving for assignments."

JenniAnn's face lit up.

"Really?" she exclaimed.

Andrew chuckled and nodded as he stroked some hair behind her ears.

"Really."

JenniAnn threw her arms around the angel and buried her face in his shoulder.

"That's so wonderful!  Thank God... truly.  That makes me feel so much better."

"I really am sorry I forgot to tell you earlier."

"Don't worry about it.  I'm sure we're all gonna get pretty space cadet-y as this goes on."  JenniAnn beamed at the angel and kissed his forehead.  "All of that time together..."

"Sure you won't get sick of me?" Andrew teased.

"Never!"  JenniAnn giggled and rested her forehead against his.  "Probably should finish getting my hair brushed so it's not a complete rats' nest tomorrow morning but..."

Andrew smiled as she played with the topmost button of his pajamas.

"This is our second-to-last night before my parents arrive so..."

Andrew chuckled at JenniAnn's coquettish grin.

"So we should take advantage of it?" he finished.

"Mmm hmm."

"All right then..."  Andrew motioned for JenniAnn to turn around then, as swiftly yet carefully as possible, finished brushing her hair.

When she heard him set the brush down, JenniAnn turned around and gently pushed Andrew back to the pillows.

As she traced his face with kisses that traveled down his neck and to his chest, Andrew closed his eyes.

They couldn't know what the future would bring but in that blessed moment, the two were happy.
*~*~*
Saturday, March 14th, 2020
JenniAnn awoke to find Andrew still beside her although turned away from her.  She could tell he was awake and so she leaned up and peeked over his shoulder.  She recognized a familiar logo on his Kindle: the logo of her hometown newspaper.

"Love..."

Andrew settled onto his back and smiled at JenniAnn.

"Hey, g'morning, Laja."

"G'morning.  Were you reading the World Herald?"

Andrew's face flushed slightly and he nodded.

"Are you worried about my mom and dad coming here?"

"And Mark and Doreen.  Maybe a little...  But there are only three cases in the whole state so..."  Andrew set the Kindle down and dragged a hand through his hair before pulling JenniAnn to him.  "I'm sure it's all fine."

"I'm sure, too."  JenniAnn kissed him.  "Not to change the subject but... I had a dream."

"Oh?"

"Yeah.  Maybe it's just cause of Ivy getting married today.  I musta been thinking about Our Lady of Hope and my time there... and then with my parents coming...  Anyway, in my dream, I was graduating.  And I knew you were in the audience.  And I looked out and... my dad was dragging you out.  And my mom was just sitting there in her seat like nothing was happening!"

Andrew chuckled.

"Awkward..."

"It was!  And I was irate.  So I went tearing off the stage and towards you and my dad, the whole ceremony coming to screeching halt, I'm yelling 'But I love him!' at the top of my lungs, the choir starts singing 'Seasons of Love'... I assume as a poor attempt at distraction... and then you just... disappeared.  Poof!"

"Poof!" Andrew repeated with a smile.  He pulled JenniAnn towards him.  "I promise that I'm not gonna disappear.  Or at least if I disappear from this castle... you're disappearing with me.  Maybe for a night... alone... in my carpentry shop if things get too crowded here."

"I wouldn't protest that...  I guess I'm just a little anxious.  I mean... we are gonna have to tone things down at least a little.  Not when we're here, of course."  JenniAnn waved around to indicate their bedroom.  "But... like..."  She looked to their balcony.  "I like spending nights out there when it warms up.  But... they might hear us."

"I doubt they would but just in case...  Maybe we should put them in the guest room that Maryam and Yosef usually use?  It's on the other side of the castle."

"That could work..."

"And Max and Rose and Landon could have Avi's future room.  I think that would be less awkward for them than my old room."

"Yeah...  Having your dad's stuff spread around doesn't exactly inspire romance," JenniAnn agreed. 

"No...  I'd think not.  And then Evie and Mallory will be in the attic with Marty.  They're not going to hear anything from there."

"And Violeta?"

"Oh...  I guess you were nursing Avi when that came up earlier.  Violeta, Shelby, and Belle want to build some sort of pillow fort in Belle's room.  If Violeta wants a break at some point, she can have my room... assuming they don't scavenge it for parts for their fort."

JenniAnn laughed.

"I guess that works... and seems very... on brand for them."

"It does."

"And...  I'm just over-thinking.  I guess it's just that... with all this weirdness and so much out of our control... it's kinda nice to fixate on the fixable," JenniAnn mused.

"I can understand that.  And I feel it, too.  I think some of that will go away come Monday when we're settled into whatever the 'new normal' turns out to be," Andrew hypothesized, rubbing JenniAnn's back as he did.

JenniAnn let out a deep, calming breath.

"I think you're right.  And now..."  JenniAnn turned around to face Andrew.  "I got a text from Kemara last night."

"Oh?"

"She's wondering...  Can she, Sean, and the kids come to Ivy's and Sy's wedding?  They would stay completely away from everyone else.  And... I'd like to go, too.  The way I figure it, the Wilsons could be right up front and Doreen and Mark to the other side up front.  Then Kemara, Sean, and the kids could be in the back right and I could be in the back left.  That'd put way more than six feet between us," JenniAnn pointed out hopefully.  "And... it'd give Kemara and Sean something nice to do before... before he reports back to the station on Monday and... and is away for however long..."

Andrew contemplated this request.  It made sense...  Kemara and JenniAnn had known Ivy for nearly as long as he had.  And they'd all met Sy together.  It would mean a lot to the couple to have them near.

"Laja...  It... it's not my wedding.  And I..."  He dragged his hand through his hair.  "I... I'm worried about you.  But it's also never been the case that you need to ask me for permission.  So... if Ivy and Sy are okay with that... of course I'm okay with it."

JenniAnn hugged him.

"Oh good!  I'll text and ask.  Then get back to Kemara and..."

She was interrupted by frantic knocking on the door.

"Andrew!  JenniAnn!  I need to talk to you!  Now!" Violeta called.

Andrew raised an eye brow and looked to JenniAnn.

"I... I have no idea," she replied as she began to get out of bed.

They pulled on their robes then hurried to greet Violeta.

"Violeta, what's..."

The younger angel cut Andrew off.

"Ivy's freaking out!  She just talked to her grandma and... they're not coming.  Mark woke up feeling awful and he has a temperature and..."  Violeta sniffled, tears welling for her best friend.  "It might not be the coronavirus.  The flu was going all around the high school.  But... they don't want to take the risk."

"Oh no..." JenniAnn lamented.

Andrew frowned... and knew it was time to tell Ivy about the note from Joshua.

"I'll go talk to her," he offered.

"O-okay..."  Violeta moved into JenniAnn's waiting hug.  "This just... it sucks."

JenniAnn smoothed her hair as she began to cry.

"I know, baby, I know..."

"I'll be right back," Andrew promised.  He patted Violeta's shoulder as she continued to weep in JenniAnn's arms.

"Let us know if we should come over," JenniAnn called as he walked away.

"Will do."  Andrew offered JenniAnn an encouraging smile then headed towards the stairs.  He made his way to the basement and took the tunnel over to his former home.  Once he was in the basement of Serendipity, he paused to pray.

"Joshua... Father...  I'll tell Ivy about the note.  But... please give me the words I need to bring her some comfort."

After taking in and letting out a deep breath, the angel trooped up the stairs and knocked.

"Ivy, it's Andrew.  If it's okay, I'd like to..."

The door opened to reveal Ivy, also donning her robe.  Her eyes were puffy and red.  She immediately hugged Andrew.

"This... this isn't what... what I wanted at all and... and I'm scared for... my grandma a-and for Mark and..."

"I know...  I know..."  Andrew softly swayed and patted her back.  A few feet away, Leo laid on the floor, his sad eyes fixed on his Ivy. 

After a few moments, Ivy collected herself enough to step away and pour herself a mug of tea.

"Chamomile?" she asked.

"Sure."

After Ivy set both mugs down, the two settled down at the kitchen table.

"I... I'm sure Joshua's not going to come.  I mean... not physically.  So... so he can't walk me down the aisle.  And... I'm not sure I'd want him to, anyway.  Not like this."  Ivy smiled sadly.  "I... Sy and I... we both wanted the big wedding with all the Friends, excited for us but also excited because it'd mean seeing Joshua.  We still want that wedding...  So... so I thought my grandma and Mark could walk me down the aisle but now..."  She let out a ragged sigh and shook her head.

"Ivy, Joshua spoke to me yesterday.  He gave me a message for you," Andrew shared.

The young woman perked up and looked to the angel of death.

"What is it?" she prompted.

"He left you a note in your Bible.  Check John 1."

Andrew smiled as Ivy burst forth from the table.  Leo roused and ambled along behind her.

A few minutes later, Ivy returned.  Her eyes were rimmed with tears but she appeared more peaceful.

"He's promised me that we will have our dream wedding.  And... when the time comes... he'll walk me down the aisle a-and dance with me."  Ivy beamed.  "But... in the meantime... he suggested I ask Zeke.  I mean... it worked for Meghan Markle.  And I'd take Zeke over Prince Charles a hundred times over.  And... and Zeke is going to be my father now.  It... it'll be so nice to have an earthly father."

Andrew reached over and squeezed Ivy's hand.

"Zeke will be so honored, Ivy."

"Do you think Kendra and Hailey will mind, though?  I mean... I guess not if Joshua recommended it."

"I doubt they will but you can check with them if it'd make you feel better."

Ivy nodded.

"I will, thanks."  She smiled at Andrew.  "I would have asked you, you know.  But since you're performing the ceremony..."

"Thank you, Ivy.  That really means a lot.  But I think this job was meant for Zeke."

"Yeah..."  Ivy smiled fondly as she thought of her soon-to-be father-in-law.  But then her voice cracked.  "What if Mark..."

"Ivy, I know it's very scary to think of him possibly having COVID.  Especially knowing your grandma is right there, too.  But even supposing they both had it, they're in the very best possible place.  I know you saw the news.  The medical center in Omaha has so much experience with infectious diseases.  And there are so, so few cases there.  The medical system isn't even close to being overwhelmed.  And they're both in really good shape."

"That's all true...  I'm just... it's all just so much, Andrew."  Ivy began to softly cry again.  She let out a laugh when Leo rested his head on her knee.  "Thank you, baby boy." 

"Ivy, if there's anything I can do..."

"There is actually...  And... and I'm glad you came over here.  Alone.  Andrew, I... I love Violeta so, so much.  And Sy and I are both committed to having her live with us.  But... especially with Sy having been in New York... we've decided that, after the wedding, we'd like to quarantine ourselves for a couple of weeks.  I know Violeta can't get it.  But if either of us do...  Dealing with your new spouse being sick is... well, it would be a lot without... well..."

"Without having an emotional, very sensitive, very energetic angel stuck with you?" Andrew offered.

Giggling, Ivy nodded.

"JenniAnn and I already intended to have Violeta stay with us for a while.  I think two weeks is definitely doable.  And think of it this way:  if not for the virus, you'd be going on a honeymoon.  And Violeta wouldn't be tagging along.  She'd have to make due without you both for a while anyway."

"This is true..."

"I'll pray that neither of you get sick, Ivy.  I think a couple of weeks to yourselves is a great way to start a marriage.  Just keep in touch so we know you're both okay.  If you need anything... food, medication, whatever... just text or call.  I can drop it off in the basement.  Okay?"

"Okay." 

"And... if it makes you feel any better... Violeta's already planning to build a pillow fort in Belle's room with her and Shelby.  So... I think she's going to be just fine."

"That sounds so fun!  I'm kinda sorry I'm gonna miss it but..."  Ivy's cheeks flushed.

Andrew smiled.

"I think this is going to be a beautiful time for you and Sy in spite of everything going on.  But now... I better get back over to Willowveil so JenniAnn and Violeta don't worry any more than they already are."

"Okay, thank you."  Ivy rose and hugged Andrew.  "And... I'll see in a little while."

The angel beamed and nodded.

"Absolutely!  I can't wait!"

With a final swig of his tea and a pat for Leo, Andrew headed back to Willowveil.
*~*~*

While Andrew visited with Ivy, JenniAnn and Violeta had moved to the kitchen to start coffee.

"JenniAnn?" Violeta called as she poured some creamer into her cup.

"Hmm?"

"How... like how long did you and Andrew mean for me to stay here?"

JenniAnn turned to study the angel.

"I don't know.  We didn't really talk about it timing-wise.  How long do you want to stay?"

Violeta shrugged.

"I'm not sure...  But, like, more than a few days..."

JenniAnn motioned for Violeta to sit down at the table then filled her mug.

"Maybe... until the summer?" the angel suggested.

"That's fine.  But why do you think you want to stay here that long?"

Violeta shrugged.

"I dunno...  I guess part of it is just wanting to give Ivy and Sy their space.  But more of it...  I... I'm not like Andrew.  This... it's new to me.  And weird.  And scary."

JenniAnn sat beside Violeta and stroked her back.

"Do you think maybe you should go Home for a while?  After the wedding, I mean?"

"No!" Violeta exclaimed.  She blushed.  "I mean... I always want to be Home in some way.  But I want to finish the semester, even if it has to be remotely.  And I... I want to be with you.  And with Andrew and Shel and Belle and Avi and..."

JenniAnn thought she saw the young angel's lip quiver.

"What is it, honey?"

"Do you... think your parents will care?  About my being here, I mean?"

"Aww, Violeta..."  JenniAnn hugged her.  "First of all, it wouldn't matter even if they did.  This is Andrew's and my house and we want you here.  But no... I don't think they'll care.  You know that they're sorry about how they acted when I was in the hospital."

"Yeah, I know...  It's just...  I dunno.  I just don't seem to make as much sense as Belle and Avi or even Shelby and Max."

"How do you mean?"

"I mean... you and Andrew adopted Belle, Avi, and Max.  And Shelby, too, basically.  But... I'm not really your kid.  I'm not even human."

JenniAnn's eyes filled when Violeta clasped the butterfly necklace she'd given her.

"Violeta, honey, listen to me...  We don't need a piece of paper to be family.  No, you're not my daughter.  But you're my baby.  And you always, always will be.  Nothing my parents or anyone say or do can change that.  Ever.  You are literally a part of me and a part of Andrew.  Remember what Joshua said: our longing, our compassion, our love... they went into making you, our Violeta, the answer to our prayers."

"Yeah... he did say that," Violeta recalled, smiling through her tears. 

"And I loved you even before I knew that.  Even when you were all... proper and stuffy."  JenniAnn grinned and cupped Violeta's chin.

Laughing, the angel nodded.

"So weird..."

"Yeah...  But maybe you came by that honestly.  When things first started up with Dyeland, I was kinda stuffy, too.  I used to wear princess dresses.  All.  The.  Time.  I took it really seriously.  But it was just because I was so young and wanted people to think I was mature."

"Me too!" 

"And now here we are... the people we were meant to be.  And that's beautiful."

"Yeah..."  Violeta hugged JenniAnn.  "I feel better now."

"Good!"

"So... how's this gonna work with the wedding?  I mean... I'm Ivy's maid of honor!  Do I have to stand six feet away from her?  Can... can I hug her?" the angel questioned.

"Yes.  Since you can't catch it, you can do whatever you want.  Just shower first thing once you get back here.  I'm not even really sure that's necessary...  Just washing your hands may very well be enough.  But I think Andrew would feel better if..."

Violeta nodded.

"I... I think this is gonna be really hard on him.  I mean... he's seen so many pandemics.  He knows how... how this could go very, very badly."

JenniAnn's eyes welled and she squeezed Violeta's hand.

"Yeah... he does.  But he also knows that, even though there was great, great loss, humans have survived every time.  And we will this time, too."

"Yeah..."

"And today... today we have a wedding to celebrate.  And it's gonna be beautiful.  So let's focus on that, okay?"

Violeta beamed at JenniAnn and nodded.

"Okay!"
To be continued...



This newsletter is dedicated to John Dye for inspiring Dyeland... a world where I feel like I'm spending more and more mental time in lately.

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(Photo Credits: The photographs used on this page are from Touched by an Angel and owned by CBS Productions, Caroline Productions, and Moon Water Productions.  They are not being used to seek profit.)