The Salvationist - Chapter Four

Looking over her schedule, Emma realizes that she needs to take some photos for the PR spread for the “Tools for School” drive. There are good media relationships with Channel 7 organizing drop off sites at some local office supply stores and the local Christian radio station 97.3 is doing a “Stuff the Bus” which are sponsoring the school supply drive this year. It is being advertised through the web, text message, and newspaper. The Target School Spree dates are set up for the corps to go shopping in August and everything else seems on track.

Crestwood is holding a “Back to School” party to distribute the supplies with the fire department bringing out the Smoke House with its Dalmatian costume mascot and also the police department offering free fingerprinting and their DARE cars on display. The Book Mobile from the library is coming so kids can sign up for library cards with their parents. Coaches will be there from the soccer program and the director of the After-school program at the corps to meet with parents and answer any questions that they might have. It is going to be a very fun day with bounce houses, carnival games and free hot dogs & popcorn distributed from the canteen. A women’s auxiliary member donated a snow cone and cotton candy machine too which will add an extra touch of fun to the day.

Driving to the mall Emma contemplates the organizational elements of this special day, she thinks about how much she enjoyed being a kid with her Wonder Woman lunch pail and bright pink and silver Barbie backpack. Jane had a trendy Bratz backpack when she came to visit which Mrs. Bates had bought for her. Sleepovers were always fun with plenty of goofy stories and adventures. In the summer, her dad would set up a tent outside in the backyard for extra amusement. Emma deeply breathes in and wishes that life were a little less complicated now.

People crowd next to her while rushing to the next store. A couple of teen girls slightly bump into her when passing engrossed in their conversation. She dodges a girl walking in the opposite direction texting on her phone oblivious to anyone around her. She notices to teen boys strutting down the hallway with a certain common hand motion and their baseball caps on backwards and wearing their jeans which are a size larger than need be. Emma walks through the town mall to capture ideas and to watch what the most current trends are for kids and teens. She wants the ad to be appealing to both the kids and the parents as well as provide donors of samples of what to purchase.

Finally coming to a Starbucks, she decides to take a break with a glass of passion tea lemonade. After ordering her drinks, Emma relaxes at a two seat table and leans back listening to the music by a new artist throughout the store.

Her rest is disturbed by a “Hey Emmaaa! I didn’t know you were coming to the mall!” Emma opens her eyes to see Harriet standing before her with dark curly hair dyed in green tips. Standing behind Harriet are two giggly sisters with similar hair styles and outfits of clothing.

“Hi Harriet! Hi Ashley and Katie Martin! What are you doing at the mall?” inquires Emma.

“Can’t you tell?” Eagerly asks Ashley.

“Well, it definitely looks like you have been to the salon. How did you decide who would tip their hair in each color?” politely asks Emma.

“It was Harriet’s idea that we draw for it. I got electric blue and as you can see Ashley chose her favorite color of fuchsia” enthusiastically responds Katie “but you haven’t seen the best part yet”.

“What are you talking about?” tepidly asks Emma “Am I missing something?”

“Youul nava guess whaut I did!” exclaims Harriet.

Emma raises her eyebrows “maybe you need to show me”.

Harriet complies by sticking out her tongue. Emma looks surprised and asks “Does it hurt?”

“Oh yeauh. Katie and Ashluy taulked me into it. I thunk it maoks me look greaut. Whaut do youu thunk?” asks Harriet.

“I think it looks like it is going to hurt for awhile, but it is interesting” practically replies Emma trying to be supportive of Harriet’s choice.

“I hauven’t figured out if the baull is going to vibrate whun I play my hourn” considers Harriet “but I guess it is tou laute nouw.”

“Umm, well that might be a little difficult” acknowledges Emma.

“Howdy! I didn’t know you were all at the mall this afternoon” greets Robert Martin walking up to them and joining the group “I’m on break from my job at Game Point and thought a cup of coffee sounded good. How is everyone?” As Robert places his arms around Harriet and his sister, Ashley, Harriet in response blushes and giggles with his friendliness. Robert is wearing his favorite python cowboy boots, faded Lee jeans, and a blue Wrangler gingham shirt with a matching blue undershirt.

“Where’s your black Stetson?” asks Katie.

Brushing his stringy dishwater blonde hair back with his hand as if realizing something is missing “It’s out in the truck.” informs Robert.

“It’s good to see you again Robert. It has been a long time” welcomes Emma “I think that it has been about two years. What are you doing now?”

“That’s right. I think the last time I saw you was a blind date set up by one of my friends. But that didn’t go so well” frankly states Robert scratching his head “However, it is good to see you again”.

Emma folds her arms and twist her lips for a second at the memory, but relaxes at his calm demeanor and openness. “Yes, that was a long time ago.”

“To answer your question, I’m currently working as the assistant manager at Game Point. We have the highest sales revenue at our store in the area. I designed a new display for the hot game that just came out which really took off” unabashedly answers Robert “It’s been a great promotion for the store” nervously nodding his head and biting his lip in agreement to his own statement.

“Tell Emma about what you are doing at the Devon Outpost too, Robert” requests Katie proud of her brother.

“I help every week at the Devon Outpost with Mrs. Dashing to feed the homeless and distribute blankets on the canteen. It is a great ministry because it gives me time to pray with people whom I might not otherwise come into contact with” honestly replies Robert “They are hurting and I am able for a few moments to offer them friendship and a little comfort”.

Emma is impressed with his compassion but doesn’t quite understand him. Harriet speaks up “I’ve been invited to help him this week and I can hardly wait! Robert has such wonderful stories that he tells.”

“That’s interesting, but you need to be careful” warns Emma “You never know what might happen to you.”

“Ashley and Katie will be there too. The Army is well-respected and loved. The community watches out for us in case someone new comes to the area who might be a potential problem until they get to know them better” Harriet provides in an attempt to comfort Emma’s concern.

“How long have you been doing this homeless ministry Robert?” asks Emma.

“For about four years now, it seemed to be the right thing to do in order to offer a practical service that reaches out to those in need” explains Robert “but I enjoy it too! I think that I get as much out of it as my new friends do. Maybe you can join us one week.”

“I’ll think about it” genuinely responds Emma.

“Emma, can you goube me a ribe home?” asks Harriet “Missus Haummer is wauting for me and the Martins have to go grousary shoupping for their mom”.

“If you don’t mind, I’ll give you a ride. I get off work in a half hour if you can wait until then. I can call Mrs. Alice Hammer for you to let her know that you will be a little late getting back” enthusiastically offers Robert.

“Okay!” rapidly nodding her head in response while Harriet crunches up her shoulders in excitement of spending some time with Robert without his sisters “She luves on Gothard laune”.

Emma smiles but not sure of what she thinks of Robert Martin. He has a history of being a little on the wild side of things in the past and not sure of what direction he is taking for his future. She makes a decision to talk to Harriet about Robert.

Ashley and Katie leave for the grocery store with Robert and Harriet trailing behind in the direction of Game Point. Emma throws away her empty cup in the recycle bins and walks toward the main anchor store focused back again on her project.

“Hey! What are you doing here? Skipping out on your job for the afternoon?” asks Knightly as Emma turns around surprised to see him.

“What a day! It seems like everyone is at the mall” responds Emma “What are you doing here?”

“I needed to buy a tie. I was being a bit of a klutz this morning and spilled coffee on the one I brought with me and accidently left my other tie at home” answers Knightly “What do you think of this one?” pulling the silk tie out of his shopping bag in a Armani box.

“It’s perfect! You do have good taste. I might have picked it myself.” Honestly replies Emma “to Imagine that we think alike is quite shocking.”

Knightly smirks but is pleased that Emma likes his choice. “What brings you here? You never answered my question.”

“I intentionally didn’t answer it but if you must know I am looking at some current trends for a photo shoot for the school supply drive this year” frankly remarks Emma.

“How many kids do you help in the city?” asks Knightly.

“All in all there are about 10,000 children that receive all kinds of school supplies as well as school uniforms in August. We work with the school counselors and agencies in order to reach those in the most need” frankly answers Emma.

“It always enlightening to hear what is happening around the division” states Knightly. “Since we are both here, would you like to join me for dinner tonight? Are you hungry?”

“Actually I am. Where would you like to go?” asks Emma.

“I’m thinking that Five Guys sounds good to me. How about that? Or do you have some other place in mind?” asks Knightly.

“A hamburger and onion rings sounds like just the thing at the moment. Do you want to take my car since it is outside this entrance?” asks Emma.

“I’ll follow you wherever you lead” jokingly replies Knightly.

Emma rolls her eyes at him and leans her head to the side and holds out her hand to direct him to the exit.

As they arrive at the restaurant, knightly orders her hamburger with mushrooms and many other condiments with a bag of fries. Emma contemplates the menu on the wall but ends up ordering a simple hamburger and onion rings.

“So are you enjoying work?” asks Knightly.

“Most days things to be going quite well. Lately it has been quite busy though getting ready for the school project with some details already surfacing in regards to Christmas even though it is still summertime!” Sighing states Emma as she thinks for a moment of the future. “How are things with you?”

“Actually everything is flowing smoothly. The mail appeal has picked up some this year which will help fund many outreach programs and social services in the division. I have a great team to work with including staff and officers in the division” reflectively remarks Knightly.

“So, have you met your new corps officer yet?” curiously asks Knightly “I had a chance to be introduced to him this year at congress a few weeks ago.”

“No, I will meet him on Sunday. He looks okay in his pictures. What do you think of him?” asks Emma.

Knightly takes a deep breath, “I think that I’ll let you meet him first before I share my opinion.”

“That’s not fair. If you won’t tell me about him, maybe you can answer this question: would you be friends with him?” asks Emma carefully analyzing his opinion.

“I think that I need to get to know him better to answer that question. There isn’t any obvious reason why we couldn’t be friends if that is what you are asking” vaguely answers Knightly.

“You are being rather mysterious in your response. It doesn’t really matter. I’ll make my own opinion as I do all the time anyway” smartly responds Emma.

Knightly looks at her and smiles. He is very aware and conscientious of her many opinions about everything from the color of a carpet to her ideas of the complexity of various relationship issues.

“Hello you two! It looks like everyone is in the mood for a hamburger today!” exclaims Mr. Weston “May I join you for dinner? I thought that I would grab a quick bite for dinner before heading home.”

“This seat is for you!” returns Knightly “So did everything come together since the meeting this morning?”

“Quite well and very happy with the results” offers Mr. Weston “I wish Grant was here, he would do such a good job in helping us pull everything together. It would be good to have some company too.”

Suddenly an idea pops into Emma’s mind “Mr. Weston, are you busy on Friday night?”

“No, my only plans are to watch a little TV” answers Mr. Weston.

“Well, I’ve been invited over to Ms. Taylor’s for dinner. She is a great cook and always cooks more than the two of us can eat. Would you like to join us for dinner on Friday?” asks Emma with a twinkle of an eye at Knightly.

“I would love too. Ms. Taylor is a lovely woman and I agree, she does make the best dinners at the corps potlucks. Do you think she would mind the extra company?” Mr. Weston asks hoping that it will not be a problem.

“I’m sure she will be delighted. She is always noticing and saying how much she appreciates everything you do at the corps and wishes that there was time to get to know you better. This is the perfect opportunity” offers Emma and then turning to her side “Knightly can also come if he wants to”.

“Thank you for the invitation but I have to be back at DHQ by then” states Knightly keenly aware of Emma’s scheming.

“That’s too bad. Well then, it will just have to be the three of us and I’m sure we will have a wonderful time together” firmly responds Emma and touching Mr. Weston’s arm “Ms. Taylor is going to be so excited that you are able to join us for dinner!”

After they finish a refreshing dinner, Emma drives Knightly back to the mall to pick up his car. He offers a bit of wisdom as he leaves, “Emma, please remember to take care of yourself while you allow yourself to get in the mix of the lives of everyone else. Their lives will happily go on whether you are involved or not.”

“I know, I know, I know. You don’t need to worry. It will all work out. I know it” retorts Emma with a smile.

The Salvationist - Chapter Three

“Quit pulling my hair!” snaps Ariel as she stomps on Allen’s foot.

“Ow! That hurt! Why did you do that!” as he releases her hair to inspect his foot.

“You know why she did it. You would let go of her hair” politely explains Maggie as if Allen didn’t realize it.

“Her hair gets in my way. I’m tired of having girl’s hair on my book!” shouts Allen.

“I wouldn’t have my hair on your book if you would back off!” shouts Ariel “You are the one always in my way!”

“Okay, okay, okay” clapping her hands, Emma begins “It is time to start. Everyone turn your faces forward and look at me” while doing the baseball sign of eye-to-eye with her first two fingers with each student.

The kids turn around and look at Emma. Ariel throws back a momentary glance at Allen sticking her tongue out with Allen responding with the ugliest face he can make up at the moment. Ariel then turns around, smiles sweetly at Emma with her hands in her lap as if nothing has happened.

Emma smirks with a grin, “Turn to the first song in your new Sing Praise books that Jane so kindly has ordered for you. Jane is playing through the first song so you can have an idea what it sounds like. Look at your part and try to follow along”.

As the piano ends the song, “All right, let’s try to sing the notes using “la” that includes you Mike” who is staring out in space thinking of his new pet lizard, “Rock Star” who upon the music stopping starts to move in the pocket of his hoodie.

Mike squirms in his seat at the rest of the group intently tries to sing along with the music. He pushes the tail of Rock Star back into his pocket. Allen notices the green bumpy tail and wants to look more closely. Mike gives him a look to leave him alone which Allen conveniently ignores.

Rock Star intelligently decides to slowly crawl out of the pocket during the non-verbal conversation of his owner. He makes his way to the floor and under Allen’s nemesis chair who is politely singing to her heart’s content at Emma’s cue.

Maggie notices that something is up with Allen and Mike. Mike is desperately looking for something around him but doesn’t seem to be able to find whatever he is searching for. Allen is quietly laughing at whatever is happening.

Rock Star is expertly climbing up the silver chair leg unnoticed by a focused Ariel or anyone else in the vocal group. Rock Star gets lost in the trenches of Ariel’s long hair.

Mike sees a glimpse of a tail and leans over to whisper in Mike’s ear while pointing “there he is!”

Instinctively Allen grabs for a clump of Ariel’s hair while trying to capture Rock Star. He pulls back to himself as hard as he can to keep Rock Star from running away.

“That’s it! I told you to quit pulling my hair!” taking her new Singing Company book and continually whapping it on Allen’s head as hard as she possibly can. Rock Star on feeling released from the hand grip, scatters as quickly as possible but gets bumped and safely lands in Maggie’s lap.

“Eww! I have a monster on me!” standing up with her arms outstretched to each side, screams Maggie at the top of her lungs.

“It’s not a monster, it’s Godzilla!” encouragingly adds Mike.

Everyone screams and the girls climb on top of their chairs with the boys jumping up and down with delight at the frantic chaos. Even Emma in quick response to the hysterics has found herself on top of a chair as well “Where is he? Where did he go? I can’t stand reptiles!”

“His name is Rock Star and he’s my pet. But I can’t find him!” anxiously replies Allen “Don’t hurt him!” pointing to Emma’s shoulder.

Emma stands perfectly still and slowly moves her head to the side of her shoulder and then slightly grins. Rock Star is looking up at her with his long slim tongue sticking out and makes a Lizard noise which is somewhere between a hiss and heavy breathing.

Dizziness fills the room as Emma feels the room fading from her vision into darkness. Fortunately, unnoticed Knightly is amusingly observing the circus and valiantly removes the lizard from Emma’s shoulder while helping Emma down from her chair before completely passing out.

The kids are all giggles and grossed out as Allen puts away Rock Star in the canning jar that he brought with him from home.

Knightly asks Emma while trying to hold back laughter, “Are you all right?”

Emma squints and sternly looks back at him “Of course I am all right, I just lost my balance that’s all” but then catches Knightly’s grin and starts laughing herself too.

“There is only ten minutes left to practice. I think we’ll take a break and go to the playground for awhile” defeated by the night’s antics replies Emma.

“Yea! Woot!” the children respond running out the back door of the buff and bronze stoned tiled hallway to the open sport fields and playground made of forts and canopies.

“What are you doing here?” asks Emma after the dust in the practice room settles.

“I have to be at area command tomorrow for a meeting and thought that I would stop by the corps tonight and say ‘hello’ to everyone” remarks Knightly “and didn’t know that I would be entertained too. I hope that you have gotten over your attack of Godzilla.”

Emma lowers her head and looks up with a slightly annoyed look “I’m fine” and then mockingly adds “Thank you for coming to my rescue and saving me!” as she bows to him.

Knightly shakes his head at her with his hands at his waist “Do you want to catch a bite to eat at Shipley’s after you are finished tonight? I haven’t eaten all day and some pizza sounds rather good right about now” looking over towards the piano “Jane, would you like to come along too?”

“Sure! I have to let my aunts know that I will be coming home a little later than usual or they will worry about where I am” replies Jane “Sounds like a great idea.”

“We can ride together in my car. It’s only a few blocks from here anyway” offers Knightly kindly smiling at Jane. Emma notices and for the first time doesn’t make her feel all that comfortable but puts it to the side and ignores the feeling.

Arriving at the local pizza place, it is crowded and noisy. The smell of fresh baked bread, garlic, oregano and basil fill the restaurant. They are led by the jean and t-shirt with the restaurant logo to a red booth with plastic covered menus of ads of local businesses on the margins.

“They have the best calzones in town!” remarks Knightly to Jane “Have you had them before?”

“No, but I’ve been to Shipley’s pizza on some of my other visit’s and it is one of my favorite places to go” smiles Jane back at Knightly.

“I go here all the time. It’s really nothing special but the food is very good” remarks Emma not understanding Knightly’s fascination with the place.

The sodas arrive with the pizza order. Each delves into the slices of thick pizza. “You’ve got a little bit of cheese on your chin” notices Knightly pointing to help Jane remove it. Jane giggles and tries to remove it herself but misses. Knightly politely removes the cheese for Jane and smiles back at her. Jane blushes a little.

Emma glances at Knightly to say “What is that?” noticing the trivial flirtation between Knightly and Jane.

The conversation continues and everyone is having a good time. Emma asks Jane “You live near Grant Churchill. Do you ever see him?”

“All the time … but I don’t really know him that well” as she moves trying to get more comfortable in her seat and then picks through her salad “He’s very popular and has a lot of friends. I don’t get to talk to him very often.”

“Does he attend your corps?” inquires Knightly.

“No, he attends the larger one in the city. I attend Longbourn Citadel with my distant cousins the Bennetts” nervously answers Jane “He attends the Netherfield corps”.

“What is he like? What does he look like? Is he nice?” curiously asks Emma.

“Grant Churchill is wonderful” Jane states this gushing a little but quickly checks her self before continuing “He is a really nice guy. A lot of girls think he is good looking. I think he knows that too” she shrugs her shoulders and her own feelings of inadequacy “I think he would be a great guy to date if he’s your type.”

“I just wondered. Mr. Weston talks about him a lot but I don’t really remember him all that well from when we were kids” honestly replies Emma “Mr. Weston misses him. Do you remember him Knightly?”

“Yes but I was starting college when he left as a child. I vaguely remember him. However, his mother was a lovely woman. The Westons always seems to be a very happy couple together” reflects Knightly “Mr. Weston is a good man. It would be nice to see him happy again.”

“I’ve got a plan” replies Emma and looking directly at Knightly “I think even you will approve.”

“Be careful Emma” warns Knightly “I hope you know what you are doing.”

“I didn’t realize how late it was. My aunts will be calling the police and reporting me as a missing person” observes Jane noticing the time on the clock on the dark walnut wood wall.

Emma thoughtfully considers “this might be an exaggeration for other people but I think you might be right about your aunts. I guess it is time we go back to the corps” looking down at her watch “Can you believe it? We’ve been here three hours already”.

“Really? I hadn’t noticed the time. It’s been a great evening with both of you” honestly remarks Knightly. He pays the bill and tip as they leave the restaurant together. Knightly thinks to himself on his way to the motel after dropping Jane and Emma off at the corps about how much he enjoyed being around and the conversation with Emma tonight.

The Salvationist - Chapter Two

“He makes me so mad!” sulks Emma to herself peering out at the large dining room window at the well manicured floral garden but loudly enough for her father to hear in the cream plush recliner in the living room.

“What are you talking about dear? Have I upset you?” kindly asks her father in a nonchalant manner.

“No, of course not dad. Knightly just gets on my nerves sometimes” bluntly answers Emma.

“He’s not here. Why are you talking about him now?” curiously asks Mr. Woodhouse.

“He’s on my mind. I’ve been thinking about what he said to me at the wedding. He thinks he knows everything” and then Emma sharply adds “What does he know about life, relationships, or anything else?”

“He’s a smart man to me with every encounter I’ve had. One of the brightest young men I know. He is going somewhere some day” counters her father.

“That’s not what I’m talking about anyway. I know he’s smart but he doesn’t understand anything about people. I understand about people and they way they interact and connect with each other. I’m quite good at setting up couples together even if I say so myself” replies Emma defensively.

“Well, do your friends like being set up by you Emma? Are they happy?” asks her father.

“Yes, they are very happy” Emma states firmly “Look at all the couples I set up in high school and college. Most of them are still together - some are married and having children now. I think that is a very good success rate. Even my own sister with Knightly’s brother has worked out quite well. You are enjoying your grandchildren, right?” defensively responds Emma.

“Oh yes. They are the best treasure in all the earth, perhaps the universe. They are my little tiger and lion with a princess to govern them” jokingly muses her father with a chuckle as memories of their last visit flood his thoughts.

“What exactly did Knightly say to you? Is it something I should be concerned about? He doesn’t seem someone to intentionally offend anyone” investigating asks Mr. Woodhouse.

“No, he was just being himself as usual telling me what to do and not to do” replies Emma rolling her eyes at the memory of Knightly’s comments “He needs to concentrate on himself a little bit more and quit worrying about what I’m doing”.

“He seems to take a special interest in you, Emma. He is very complimentary of you when he speaks to me. You enjoy his company too from what I have seen when he joins us for dinner and other family events. I like him. I think he has some wisdom and offers good advice” gently suggests her father “It wouldn’t be such a bad thing to listen to what he has to say I would think”.

Emma folds her arms, shakes and throws back her head while rolling her eyes and heads towards the stairs to recover some support from the confines of her bedroom.

Closing the door behind her and not too quietly, she picks up her phone to check her text messages and voice mail. The first message is from Harriet, “r u coming 2 the mall w/Martins?”

Emma reads the message and texts back, “I don’t think so. I have things to do today” but thinks out loud to herself, “I don’t know why Harriet likes hanging out with the Martins so much. They are very nice girls but if Harriet wants to improve herself she needs to reach out some and develop more friendships.”

The next text is from Jane “New music for singing company. See you tonight.”

“She is always ordering new stuff from Trade. She can sight read anything. I wish that I could do that. Everything she does is so perfect. I don’t get it. I think it would be pretty hard to be absolutely perfect all the time” slightly jealous truthfully states Emma to herself.

The third text is from Knightly, “Sorry if I upset you. See you tonight”.

“See, he knows he was wrong!” smirks Emma in denial of the actual words of the apology “He knows that I am right and admits it.”

Next Emma listens to her voice mail, the first message is from Ms. Anne Taylor who is the Young People’s Sergeant Major or “YPSM” at Crestwood. She is a teacher but also a life long friend and mentor. “Emma, would you like to come over to my apartment for dinner? We haven’t had a time to catch up in awhile and it would be great to see you again.”

Emma quickly texts back to Ms. Taylor, “See you tomorrow at 6 pm!!!!”

The second voice mail is from Mrs. Bates, one of the elderly Home League members of the Crestwood corps whom Emma is distantly related to. Her mother is not in good health and hasn’t been for years since her stroke. Her mother has difficultly speaking. Mrs. Bates often intuitively speaks out loud for both of them to keep herself company in the silence of their home. They do not have many visitors but are thoroughly enjoying the present seasonal company of Jane, their niece.

Mrs. Bates who was widowed after her husband died in a car accident after only a year of marriage, lives with her mother and takes good care of her. But she is lonely but isn’t able to reach out or meet new people because of the continual daily responsibilities of her mother’s care.

Most people genuinely like Mrs. Bates but because of being alone so much to her thoughts when she has the chance to be with people she tends to ramble and talk incessantly. This is because she is delighted to finally be in the company of other people and wants to feel accepted and a sense of belonging. Unfortunately, most are just annoyed and ignore her. However, Emma has always had time for her and been kind. Mrs. Bates considers Emma a real friend. The truth is that Emma and Mrs. Bates get along quite well most of the time.

Emma believes Mrs. Bates makes the best desserts in the entire city. She sincerely likes to visit Mrs. Bates and her mother on Sunday afternoons because it is very relaxing for her even if most of the time is spent with Mrs. Bates unintentionally bragging about the accomplishments of Jane. Jane is there so the time slips by a little more quickly now.

“Hello Emma. Are you there? Hello! Hello! Hello! Oh yes, yes. This is just a voice mail. Silly me. What was I calling about? Mmm. I don’t remember. Just a minute … uh … let’s see. That’s right. Emma, are you there? I was wondering if you would like to come over for dinner on Friday with Jane, my mother, and me. There will be four of us. It would be so good to see you again. I know that we saw each other Saturday. It really hasn’t been that long ago, only three days. Time does fly. But Jane would really like to see you again and so would I even though it has only been three days but by then it will nearly be a week unless I see you at church before then. Do you think that you would be able to come? I know that you are so busy – a busy schedule and a busy life. You have lots of friends to spend time with – busy, busy, busy. I hope you consider me a friend. We have been friends for such a long time. Jane, my mother, and I think it would be wonderful if you could come Friday. Do you think you could come? I mean do you think that you would be able to come?” Mrs. Bates rambles as the voice mail beeps.

Emma smiles to herself and immediately texts back “I’ll be there on Friday and looking forward to seeing all of you again!”

Emma looks through her massive closet of clothes and decides that she can’t find anything acceptable to wear for work. She has tons of suits and dresses that would be more than satisfactory, but today her mood is keeping her from finding anything in particular that she likes.

Finally choosing a coal pencil skirt and a sage blouse heads off to work in her crystal blue Audi that her father bought for her recent birthday. Emma is a little spoiled and knows it but tries not to let these feelings overwhelm her.

Walking into work everyone greets her in their own grey speckled cubicles. She is well liked and respected as a supervisor in spite of her age. She works in the Public Relations department at area command. Most of her job includes photography and supervision of the area wide web page. She reviews and edits a few feature articles for press releases and for The Salvation Army publications. She enjoys her job most of the time. Austen Knightly works at divisional headquarters as the development director so she has occasional contact with him. Although lately Emma has noticed, he seems to be visiting area command more than he use to even though it is usually a pleasant experience for Emma.

Opening her burgundy soft leather briefcase, she pulls out the most recent set of proofs for the monthly donor newsletter which are due at the end of the week. Everything is almost in place and looks quite professional. “You have an eye for finding just the right touch!” notices Mr. Weston glancing over the desk at the proofs on the table.

“Thank you so much!” Looks up Emma with a friendly smile, “How are you doing?”

“I’m doing fairly well. This has been a busy week in the audit department. I’ve been traveling quite a bit but enjoying my time visiting with the staff and officers at the corps” kindly replies Mr. Weston.

“Have you heard from Grant recently?” asks Emma who met Grant as a young child when he still lived with his father before his mother was promoted to glory. Jane, Grant, and Emma were toddlers in the nursery and often found on the slide of the company sponsored top-notch wood chipped playground at the corps.

“Yes, he’s written. But it doesn’t look like he has plans to visit for awhile. I hear the area command development director position is opening up after Simmons retirement and I was hoping that he would apply” answers Mr. Weston.

“It sounds like a wonderful opportunity for him. You never know. He would be an excellent employee I’m sure because he takes after you” compliments Emma.

Mr. Weston is deeply grateful to think that his son would be considered to be like him. With slight tears in his eyes, Mr. Weston politely thanks Emma and walks out of her office. Mr. Weston has lived alone since his son went to live with his wife’s sister at age ten. This impulsive decision was made at a moment of grief and sorrow on losing his wife. His sister-in-law not having children of her own has limited the amount of time and contact that she made available for Frank to see his father while he was growing up. Grant Churchill has misunderstood this lack of contact as a lack of interest from his father and resented that his father has not had more time for him. Mr. Weston is a kind and gentle man. Grant is never far from his thoughts.

Emma taps the corner of her pen on her cheek while she thinks about how she can help Mr. Weston. She hears the buzz of a text on her phone. It’s Ms. Taylor, “Great I’ll see you then! Dinner will be delicious!”

Suddenly an idea pops into Emma’s strategic mind. Her eyes light up and she jumps and leans forward placing both hands solidly on her desk, “This is perfect! I wonder why I didn’t think of it before. Ms. Taylor and Mr. Weston will be a wonderful couple! They need just a little help working some magic and I’m the right person to do it!”

The day passes rather quickly as Emma has spent most of the hours scheming and daydreaming of plans for matchmaking. The clock hits 4:30 pm and it is time to get some dinner and then make her way to the corps for singing company rehearsal.

Driving to the corps and listening to her Ipod through the car stereo system of The Singing Company from the Central Territory, Emma thinks about how much she will miss Brandon and Anne. They have been good friends for awhile now. She wonders if Lt. Elton will be as good a pastor as Brandon. She hopes so but also believes that it would be difficult for anyone to follow Brandon who is so well liked by the congregation. She doesn’t personally understand the Army rule of not being able to have contact for a year with soldiers after moving but rationally accepts that this is a reasonable rule in order for new officers and soldiers to adjust to their new appointments.

Sunday is the welcome of Lieutenant Elton Phillips which will be followed by a typical corps potluck and time of fellowship. She wonders what Jennings is going to bring this time. “It’s always something crazy and original but oddly tasty” reflects Emma.

“Crestwood has always been assigned to married Majors. When Brandon came it was quite a shock but now to add a single Lieutenant seems strange. Brandon was a really good choice though for the corps. Lt. Elton Phillips must be very capable and educated for the personnel department to decide to send him to Crestwood too. At least he is attractive from his picture at commissioning with his session mates in the recent Northern News” ponders Emma in her thoughts “I hope everyone likes him when he arrives this week. It’s going to be interesting”.

The Salvationist - Chapter One

“Don’t you think weddings are the most beautiful thing ever?” dreamily asks Harriet to her friend and mentor Emma “Anne and Brandon are such a wonderful couple together. I wonder what it will feel like when I am in love.”







“Love is one of the most unique and marvelous experiences in life” wistfully replies Emma but then reflectively “even though I have yet to experience it myself but I will one day.”






“What do you think my Prince Charming will look like?” encouragingly asks Harriet.






“I think you will find a great man who will compliment you in many ways and I see you being very happy together” hopefully answers Emma






“Let’s get some cake before it is all gone. I heard the cake is awesome! It’s like one of the cakes featured on “Ace of Cakes” a few months ago” explains Harriet grabbing Emma’s arm and pulling her towards the reception hall “First, I want to change into my s


Skeetchers though there in the trunk of my car.”






Jane is visiting for the summer as she does every holiday with both of her aunts. Jane is a sweet attractive young woman. She is kind and thoughtful but rather timid in large groups of people since having been raised by her cousins, the Campbells, after the death of her mother. Jane however is chatting to Annie Elliot while drinking a spiced punch in the corner by the gift table. As younger children, they use to be good friends during summer Girl Guard camp every year.






Between Emma and Jane there is a silent rivalry on Emma’s part due to being compared to Jane in every possible way by Jane’s aunts who miss her dearly between visits and love to be reminded of her enjoyable company through telling of stories that they have shared together during her visits.






Emma although she will not admit it to herself is rather jealous of Jane but still manages to override these feelings due to her upbringing and manors. Emma is a beautiful woman as well but is not vain about her looks. But she does believe that she has many answers to life even at her young adult age.






“Jane! How much longer will you be here after the wedding? Are you going home soon? What are your plans after you go back home? How much longer to have left at college?” inquires Emma.






Turning to Annie “Excuse me” smiling and looking up to Emma “I graduated this spring and have decided to stay awhile with my aunts. I’m hoping to get a job either with a corps in town or at area command so I can spend some time with them”.






Emma is shocked “Really? Are you sure you want to do that? Won’t you miss your friends back home?”






“Most of my friends have graduated too and moving to new places” explains Jane “nearly everyone has left or has plans to leave soon.”






“I’m sorry to hear that. I hope you like your stay here in the meantime” apologetically answers Emma.






“The wedding was beautiful” diplomatically adds Annie to the conversation “Anne glows and looks absolutely lovely in her gown.”






“Brandon seems so happy too!” enthusiastically agrees Harriet.






“I don’t think that I’ve met you yet. What is your name? My name is Annie Elliot” politely introduces Annie.






“My name is Harriet. I’m visiting from Peru. I worked this summer at Camp Long Branch with Willoughby and Julie with the Camp America program” explains Harriet.






“Harriet? Is that a Spanish name?” curiously asks Annie with a smile.






“Oh no, I’m named after my British grandmother. My mom came to Peru as a young adult to work as a SAWSO member and met my dad who is Peruvian” Harriet further explains “They fell in love and then had me.”






“I’ve never been to Peru, but I hear that Captain Fred Wentworth is leading a service corps team of young adults to Peru this summer” informatively enlightens Annie blushing a little at saying his name out load after such a long time of keeping his name to herself.






“Did you know that Ben Wick is going there this summer too? He’s been assigned to Captain Wentworth’s team” says Jane joining the conversation “He seems like a nice guy even though I don’t know him all that well. He likes to write poetry too.”






“A lot of people will be leaving this summer to work at camp or service corps. I’m so sorry to hear that Ted and Ellen are going to training and that Brandon and Anne are moving as well” sulkily adds Emma “it won’t be the same without them around at Crestwood.”






“The appointments just came out yesterday but my aunt doesn’t have internet so I wasn’t able to see the ‘official’ moving list on Lotus Notes” Jane curiously seeking more information “Do you know the moves?”






“Yes! I’ve been on the phone the last two days with all the people in the know. I had nearly the complete list the day before the moves came out” brags Emma “Brandon is going to be stationed at THQ but will be working on a national congress that will take place in a couple of years.”






“How exciting!” exclaims Harriet “Who is coming here to Crestwood as the corps officer?”






“His name is Lieutenant Elton Phillips. I looked up his Facebook profile” Emma explains with an air of authority “He is single and 28 years old. He graduated from Booth College University in Winnipeg, Manitoba in Biblical Studies and is being commissioned this year. He has ton of pictures of himself on his Facebook page if you want to look at him.”






“What do you know about him? He is good looking? He is handsome?” excitedly asks Harriet “Is he hot?”






“Yes, I think some might find him attractive” rationalizes Emma “He is arriving in six weeks, so we will get to know him better then.”






“He tweets! I just googled him on my phone!” shouts Harriet jumping up and down “He has a tweet pic too! Let me see . . . “ as Harriet concentrates staring at her phone “It’s of his new haircut . . . actually lots of pictures of his new haircut.”






“Can I see?” asks Jane sitting next to Annie a little tired from the day but trying to be kind and interested “He is nice looking. I wonder what his personality is like.”






Austen Knightly notices the girls all huddle in the corner and decides to find out what has absorbed their attention.






“Hey dude!” enthusiastically welcomes Harriet looking up and catching his attention.






“What are you girls doing?” skeptically asks Knightly peering over at Emma engrossed in her phone.






“Nothing that you would be interested in” excuses Emma “just girl stuff.”






“I don’t know. I find many things rather interesting depending on the subject. Something seems to be keeping your rapt attention” keenly observes Knightly.






“It’s really none of your business, but if you must know we are looking at pictures of the new lieutenant coming to Crestwood” replies Emma “We want to know a few things about our new pastor before he arrives”.






“He’s hot too!” adds Harriet with a little too much enthusiasm while Emma gives her a quick glance to calm her excitement some in front of Knightly.






“Oh I get it. He’s available, right?” asks Knightly “Are you checking him out before he comes in order to claim him?






Rolling her eyes, Emma turns her back on him “Whatever, you don’t understand anything about women. Why don’t you go back over to your corner and hang out with the men for awhile? They probably need you more than we do.”






“I don’t know. It seems like there might be a necessity for my relationship advise and worldly wisdom. Particularly on matters of the heart and soul” mockingly offers Knightly as he exaggeratedly sighs and holds his hand over his heart.






Glaring at him, “That’s not funny!” states Emma “What do you know about relationships? You’re thirty-two and still not married.”






“I’m praying about it and waiting for God to bring someone to me” defensively responds Knightly slightly ticked at Emma’s attitude on the subject “What about you?”






“Well, I am too. I’m only twenty-five. I’ve got plans and things to do before I settle down” explains Emma “but that doesn’t stop me from helping friends and loved ones create fabulous matches for themselves”.






“I think you need to let people make their own choices and stay out of the way” wisely advises Knightly “Most people are pretty good at finding others that they have things in common without any assistance from anyone else”.






“What do you know? You’re just a man. You have no idea how women work. You are misunderstanding the power of the expertise of a woman’s intuition and charm” defensively adds Emma while Harriet and Jane intently listen to the conversation but too afraid to add any additional commentary.






“Emma, just be careful. I’ve seen you at work before. Remember you are dealing with people here not Barbie dolls in a playhouse and they can be disappointed and hurt” kindly reminds Knightly.






Emma directly looks at him realizing he is probably telling the truth but not appreciating the nagging about her behavior “I do care about people. I’m just helping them. No one will get hurt. I’m just nudging them towards real true love.”






“Well, on that note I think that I am going to get some punch it looks like Jennings is about to give the toast to the new happy couple” smiling to himself as he walks away towards the punch bowl.






“He annoys me. Ever since his brother married my sister, he thinks that he has the authority to tell me what I can and cannot do” shrugs Emma turning towards Annie, Harriet, and Jane but then adds defiantly “I don’t let him get away with it though.”






Clanging on the glasses of spiced bunch to get everyone’s attention “Time for a toast!” announces Jennings to everyone in the Fellowship Hall of the Crestwood corps.






Ted Ferris nervously stands but warmly begins “I haven’t known Brandon for very long however we will soon be brothers-in-law. We have become very good friends as well as co-workers in the last few months. He is one of the greatest people I have met in my life and is marrying one of the kindest people I know. Brandon, may you and Anne have many years of joy and happiness together. May your days be filled with laughter, and may mutual understanding and compassion be near you to greet each day. Cheers to your lifetime of blessings together!”






Ellen Dashing picks up a stack of colored index cards on which she has written her notes for the important speech. “Anne, you are beautiful inside and out. Being your sister has brought out many exciting experiences and challenging moments in my life. Brandon has a wonderful future ahead with you. May you bring out the best in each other and appreciate the uniqueness of the gift that God has brought into each of your lives. Wishing you many years of love as each day is committed to each other.”






“Good. It’s my turn now” Jennings excitedly exclaims standing up from her chair “Love is not an easy thing. It is kind-of like peanut and jelly. Some days are creamy and smooth and other days are rocky and filled with nuts. Some days are like jelly which is sweet and yummy. Personally, I like my peanut butter with butter on whole wheat bread and a double dose of strawberry jam . . . but I digress. Oh yes, what was I talking about? Love is like peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Every day is a good mixture of the good and bad but put together it is delicious. May your marriage be a delicious fulfilling sandwich.”






Everyone laughs and claps at the speeches. It has been a great day for everyone.






“It’s time for the bouquet toss! Calling all single girls to the center!” cheers Jennings “Just try to beat me catching the bouquet. I’m faster than all of ya!”






Brandon brings out a chair and takes Anne’s hand to help her on the chair sharing a sweet private moment between each other.






“I’m gonna to get it! I’m prepared, I’ve got my sneaks on now!” challenges Harriet.






Jane and Emma share a quick glance between each other that is slightly on the competitive side. Lila joins them ready to pounce at a moment’s notice.






Annie Elliot shyly joins the group at the center but seems rather awkwardly embarrassed to have to be pointed out that she is single. She rubs her arm as if she is cold and nervously looks around to see if anyone has noticed how uncomfortable she feels.






“One, two, three!” as Anne tosses the beautiful bridal bouquet above her head and back behind her in hopes of aiming directly at her sister, Ellen.






Jennings jumps in full uniform and off-black hose has removed her shoes for extra agility. Jane and Emma jump as high as possible in their heels but do not reach the target of their dreams. Jennings flies past them as Harriet runs back and forth trying to strategize the future landing of the bouquet. Ellen reaches like a quarterback to her side with both arms outstretched but like a shortstop misses the fly ball.






Jennings stretches her body sharp as an arrow and goes for it. The bouquet falls gently on the head of an immovable Annie as Jennings falls flat. Reaching for the floral array on her head, the bouquet providentially cascades into Annie’s hand. Jennings comes to her senses finding herself in a spread eagle position with her nose to the ground. Mrs. Dashing notices Jennings with a few fallen petals splashed about her hair compassionately helps her up from the floor. Jennings resolutely replies “Oh well. Better luck next time” and then optimistically adds “I’ve still got Ellen’s wedding to go to!”

The Salvationist - Introduction

I enjoyed writing "Crest & Shield" and have decided to continue the story from another viewpoint with "The Salvationist" borrowing from "Emma".  I've kept the story centered around Crestwood so some of my favorite characters that I could not bear to part with yet will be showing up occassionally.

I've changed a few names. For instance, Philip Elton becomes Lt. Elton Phillips and Frank Churchill's name is given a more modern sound of "Grant" Churchill.

To  keep the story located around Crestwood and a continuation of the last one, I've adjusted some of the characters, but hopefully not by too much so they can still be recognizable.  Robert Martin is a cowboy instead of a farmer and Harriet is an exchange student, a child of missionaries.  Emma is a bit spoiled and sometimes snooty, but hopefully still likeable.