Page 90 of Stay With Me
“No problem. Have a good night, my friend.”
“I will. I’ll talk to you later.”
After ending the call, I set my phone next to me. I allow my eyes to scan my yard before closing them again to do a round of box breathing. With each exhale, the tension leaves my body. When I feel a little better, I open my eyes and head into the house.
Once I make sure everything is locked up and put away, I walk into the bedroom. Luna is curled up on top of the covers, too exhausted to climb in fully. I tuck her in before stripping out of my clothes and crawling in next to her. I tug her close as exhaustion pulls me under.
THIRTY-NINE
Unknown
Pullingthephoneoutof the bag, I power it on and see several text messages asking for updates. He told me to only use this phone for updates, and I didn’t have any until now.
I quickly dial his number.
After two rings, Father answers. “It took you long enough. Did you forget your mission?” He bellows.
“No, Father.”
“It seems like it since I have asked you for updates several times before I hear back from you. This mission was putting you on the good path with God. But my most recent vision shows you straying from your path.”
“I promise I haven’t,” I say quickly. “I have only done what is needed to blend in and not make anyone suspicious of me.”
“We shall see. I will pray on it. Now, what updates do you have?”
“Thank you, Father. You are gracious and as forgiving as our Lord.” I take a breath, knowing he won’t be happy with my update. “I know that agents of the government met with Luna today.”
“She met with them alone?”
“No. Noah, the sheriff’s deputy, along with two of her female friends.”
“Do you know what was talked about?”
“I overheard that she spoke of the inner workings of The Family. Also, the government knows that you have left Utah, but they do not know where you are currently.”
“Good, my child. Sadly, Luna appears to be further from God than the last time we spoke, but she is not lost, as our God will forgive her for her sins, this I have seen. It won’t be easy, though.”
“Our God is gracious,” I say without hesitation.
However, the longer I’m outside The Family, the more I’m not sure what I believe anymore. What I do know is that I fear Father Matthew too much to show that I’m questioning anything.
“Does that conclude your update?”
“Yes, Father.”
“Good. Our plan is in motion, and soon, The Family will be whole again.”
“I will let you know if anything changes or progresses on my end.”
“I know you will. We will talk soon.”
After I hang up the phone, I power it off and place it back in my bag.
I’m torn between trusting the plan and believing the plan might not end as Father has told me it would. I’ll sleep on it and figure out my path after a good night’s sleep.
FORTY
Luna
