Untitled Novel - Chapter Fourteen

The next plan for the day was that after lunch they would all go to Dream Island for their traditional outing: Marcus was not quite sure why they were going back to this island, however, all their other traditions had been pleasantly fulfilling: the perfect idea of love and family. It seemed that he would now learn and experience one more memorable episode in the Tolkowsky family Easter traditions.
Peter had convinced Emerald to ride back home with them. They had special brunch invitations to dine with Dr. Steuber. It was known that business associates of Tolkowsky Diamonds’ would be there. This would be high on Emerald’s list of things to do: socialize with currant or potential clients.
“Marcus, we are on our own until we meet Mom, Dad and Emerald back at the marina about 1:00 o’clock. What would you like to do between now and then?”
“I would like to sit on a wall and have a hotdog.”
“It sounds like you’re ready to go back to New York.”
“No, that’s not it. I just would like a good hot dog in a park somewhere.”
Navette pondered for a short while. “I think I just know the spot that might satisfy your urge.”
“Well, today is Easter Sunday and I would think the normal hotdog vendors would not be working today. Let’s see. I bet you are going to take me to an amusement park of some kind… we’re going to Disneyland.”
“No I don’t think that Disneyland has the type hot dog you are looking for. But, you are right about a park. I know just the park.”
“Well, I can see that you want to surprise me, however, I still like guessing. How about a zoo park or a carnival? They have good hotdogs.”
Navette liked this guessing game. It was light hearted fun. This is just what they both needed to take their minds to a relaxed level: an enjoying the moment level. “It is neither, but you have the general idea.”
Marcus was having fun also with this game and felt he could come up with the answer before arriving at their destination. “I’ve got it. We are going to Dodger Stadium.”
“What makes you think we are going to Dodger Stadium?”
“It just makes sense, baseball parks have great hotdogs, they are always big, juicy and you can load them down with mustard and catsup, just like Joe’s hotdogs. Anyway, I saw the sign directing us to Dodger Stadium.”
“You are so observant. You should have been a spy. We have a box in the Dugout Club there and we will go in and you can get a hotdog and see the stadium. However, the game doesn’t start until around 1:00 when we are to meet the others at the marina.”
“That sounds great. I would love to see Dodger Stadium and I understand they have a great hotdog. They call it the Dodger dog.”
Navette turned onto Stadium Way and followed the signs to Elysian Park Avenue and this led them to the valet entrance. One of the services for their reserve seating box is valet parking service, so Navette pulled up to the valet parking area, showed her membership card and they entered the stadium all in a matter of fifteen minutes. This was outrageously cool to Marcus. What would make it even more cool would be that they could stay and experience the game. But they had the traditional trip to Dream Island keeping them from staying for the game. A trip that Marcus had no perception as to what this tradition day on Dream Island encompassed.
“Why don’t we stay and watch the game? I am sure that Peter would understand. Let’s call him and tell him we decided to watch the game instead. For a guy who has Dugout Club seats, Peter would definitely understand. In fact, he would probably want to join us. Call him and let him off the hook on the Dream Island thing.”
Navette was seeing a part of Marcus that she had not seen. Had something at the baseball park triggered an emotion from a previous experience or from childhood?
“Marcus, I have told you how much Dad looks forward to this treasure hunt. I think he would be terribly disappointed if we did not show.”
“Treasure hunt! Is this what the tradition is all about? What type of treasure hunt? Do we hunt for an egg filled with Easter candy?”
“No more questions. You will just have to find out for yourself. The treasure is so special that I do not want to miss it. So, get your hotdog and you can sit in the club and enjoy it. Then we must go.”
The hotdog was very good: just as Marcus had imagined. Navette ordered a fruit smoothie and slice of vegetable pizza. They had time to leisurely eat and still meet the others. This was a good stop: a special treat for Marcus. He hadn’t experienced a baseball game since his early youth. It was then that he and his father would go to the game at Wrigley Field in Chicago. This was a part of his childhood that he cherished.
“Why don’t you go and enjoy the traditional treasure hunt with your family? I’ll stay here and enjoy the game. Just being near a baseball stadium brings back some pleasant memories: memories that I had nearly forgotten.”
“Dad will be mighty disappointed. I’m afraid that you will also. You don’t know what lies inside these buried treasures. I can’t promise that you will receive yours if you don’t go with us.”
“It is worth the risk. I just want to take in this atmosphere and experience more of the ballpark.” You had better get going or you’re going to be late.”
“How will you get home?”
“I’ll call a taxi.”
Navette left Marcus at Dodger Stadium soaking up the sounds and sights of Dodger baseball. Dodger Stadium is remarkable for a fairly old stadium. It was built back in 1962 but has been updated and refurbished to make it still a favorite. It has one of the best grass fields in the league; in fact, in a “Sports Illustrated” survey players rated Dodger field high on the list of favorite fields to play. Yes, Marcus was taking in the moment. Marcus hasn’t been to a baseball game since early childhood. But he remembered those times. It was then that he and his father enjoyed each other’s company and found life to be fun. Even if they were financially strapped and his mom was working on the days they were at the game.
Marcus was once again clouding good memories with bad. His dad was somewhat irresponsible. Leaving his mother to buy the groceries and pay the rent while he juggled jobs that were, at most, temporary jobs. At least, they were temporary as far as his father was concerned. But the baseball games were special. “I wonder if they still sell peanuts.” Marcus thought. Wrigley used to sell roasted peanuts in the shell. Marcus remembered his dad getting a huge bag of these peanuts and he would crack them open and share the fruit with Marcus. Yet another memory that was bittersweet. He knew that they needed the money for other things: rent, groceries, electricity, etc. Marcus found himself resisting these unpleasant thoughts of today for the pleasant thoughts of the past.
His memories, though, had taken place on the bleachers and not in a plush Dugout Club. So to recapture these childhood memories he would need to leave the comforts of this air-conditioned club and move to the cheap seats. The cheap seats were a distance into the outfield. But, here at Dodger Stadium even the cheap seats were nice. You could go through a buffet and get all you wanted to eat but all Marcus was looking for was a bag of roasted peanuts in the shell. Sure enough, as Marcus sat down in the center of an area of vacant bleacher seats, a guy came up the steps barking the all familiar sound: “Peanuts, Popcorn, Cracker Jacks.”
“Over here” Marcus yelled. “I’ll have a bag of those peanuts.”
So now Marcus was in a bleacher seat with his bag of peanuts ready for the game to begin. Everyone knows that the national anthem is sung before every professional league baseball game and today would be no exception. Marcus always enjoyed this as a child and was looking forward to it today. He wondered if possibly someone famous would be here to do the honors but didn’t have a clue. There was this guy setting three seats down from him and Marcus asked. “Do you know who is to sing the National Anthem?”
The guy looked kind of surprised that Marcus would ask but he quickly replied. “I believe it is Paul something. I forgot his last name.” Marcus was wondering if it could have been the guy he just heard singing at the Easter service.
“Not Paul Potts.” The guy shook his head and said. “That doesn’t sound right.”
Marcus thought for a minute and decided that it would not be Paul Potts. He wasn’t even a United States citizen. He would not be singing our National Anthem.
“Ladies and gentlemen…it is a special honor for me to introduce to you a two time Grammy winner… Paul Williams to sing our National Anthem.”
Marcus thought. “Who is Paul Williams?”
He was a short old guy. He must have been in his seventies. Marcus had never heard of him. But he had won many awards – he must be famous. Why had he not heard of him? His awards must have been won many years ago, that would be the only explanation.
He began to sing. His voice was low and raspy, possibly from age. Somehow he managed to get through the song and the crowd began to cheer. Marcus found himself standing and cheering as he did when a child. His dad would always stand and cheer after the National Anthem. Marcus now remembered the next event was the infamous first pitch. This was the unofficial first pitch of the baseball game made by a dignitary or a famous person and hopefully the pitch would be good enough to be caught by the catcher.
“Ladies and gentlemen to throw out the first pitch of this game…the mayor of Los Angeles, Antonio Villaraigosa.” This answers the question. Marcus wasn’t familiar with the mayor of Los Angeles, however, he did remember times when he was a child that it was a big thing to see the mayor of Chicago doing this same feat. At that time he was excited. The mayor was a sharp dressed Hispanic looking fellow and had a good arm. He threw the pitch like a professional – right to the catcher. The game would start now. The Rockies would have first at bat and the Dodgers would be in the in the outfield. The outfield players would be the only ones that those less fortunate folks setting in the bleachers could actually see. The rest were so far away that it was difficult to make out the numbers on their uniforms without binoculars. This is why Marcus remembers getting to meet one of the Chicago players: He was close enough for him to hear when Marcus and his dad would yell at him. They tried not to boo him but they would shout “Good catch” every time he caught the baseball and “Good try” every time he didn’t. His name was Andre Dawson and he played right field for the Chicago Cubs.
Marcus hadn’t kept up with baseball since he had left home. He had no idea where Andrea was today. He could be retired for all Marcus knew. He had not heard the announcements of players before the game. He didn’t have any idea who was playing for either team. The first pitch, that actually counted, was thrown and hit into the right field. It looked as if it was coming directly at Marcus. It was as if it were in slow motion. The ball was plainly in Marcus’s reach. He stood as those around him stood, hoping to catch the baseball. They gathered around Marcus as if he were ground zero. The baseball was heading right to Marcus. He did not have to move a muscle other than raise his arms slightly above his head. He had caught the first baseball hit in the game. The player in right field was very disappointed of course. Marcus could see him leaning against the fence separating the baseball field from the stands. No errors were called, of course, the baseball was just hit too far for him to make a play. Marcus automatically yelled to the player, “Good try”. He made a slight hand wave as to say thank you.
There was a young boy to Marcus’s left who was one of the several nearby fans that had hopes of catching that baseball. He actually bumped into Marcus when Marcus stretched out his arms to make the catch. But the boy was not tall enough to reach the baseball or he would have had a good chance of catching it. Marcus sat down and glanced over to the boy who had a disappointed look on his face. The young boy wanted to catch the baseball.
Marcus remembered one incident from his childhood when he was about to catch a baseball that was hit into right field. As he recalled, his dad was trying to catch the baseball for him but there was this huge man sitting beside him that simply out reached and out shoved his dad. There was a brief display of anger from his dad, but there was nothing he could do. His dad simply congratulated the guy and forgot the matter. Marcus was disappointed of course. But, he knew that his dad had given his best attempt to catch the baseball.
The boy saw Marcus looking at him and Marcus held the baseball up in the air and said to the boy, “You want it?” The boy immediately responded “Yeah.” Marcus tossed the baseball to him. He caught it and then turned to his dad with a big smile saying “Look Dad the man gave me the baseball.” The boy’s dad gave him a pat on the back and tucked the boy’s baseball cap down on his forehead and then turned to Marcus and said “Thank you.”
This made Marcus feel good about himself and again brought up childhood delights.
Marcus was beginning to feel sympathy for his dad. All this nostalgic thinking had revealed a tender love for his dad. Even though he had been so irresponsible in supporting his family financially, he had showed a love of life and family that Marcus had forgotten. Maybe it was time to pay his father a visit or at least send him an email or letter. This was something that he felt he should not put off.
Marcus decided to go back to the Dugout Club where he asked for a piece of paper and he began to write his father a letter.
Dear Dad,
I am sorry that I have not written you in a while. I hope life is not too hard in the Castle. Mom told me that you were helping the warden with the landscaping and that he liked your work. I suppose it makes the time go by faster.
A lot has happened to me the last few months, much of which I wont bore you with. I suppose you’re wondering why I am writing you a letter on Dodger Stadium stationery. I am writing this letter from the Dugout Club during the game. I just caught the first pitch of the game and wanted to share it with somebody. It brought back memories of when you tried to catch that ball at Wrigley Field. Anyway, I gave the ball to a kid who was very disappointed that he hadn’t caught it. It made me feel good to give it to him and you should have seen the look on his face.
I have met a beautiful, talented and rich girl and it is looking pretty serious. Actually her father is rich. How else would I find myself in the Dugout Club? Well Dad you were just on my mind and I decided to write. It is Easter Sunday and I will mail this tomorrow.
Oh, by the way her name is Navette Tolkowshy. We will be flying back to New York tonight and I will be at a new job. Things are good; no things are great.
Hope to see you soon.
Love, Marcus

It felt rewarding to have written this letter. He had harbored these ill feelings too long and this letter was a start in rebuilding the relationship between him and his dad.

Untitled Novel - Chapter Thirteen

It was then that Marcus noticed the small sign just to the right of where Navette parked. “Private Drive – No Parking – Vehicle will be towed at owner’s expense. If you didn’t read this sign until too late you can claim your vehicle at Value-Tow 234-5678.”
“Navette, I think I know where the Jeep is.” Marcus then pointed to the sign.
Navette was angry with herself for not seeing the sign. “Well, what do we do now?”
“I think Navajo Joe’s is still open. Let’s go call the number and then we can get a taxi to take us there.”
“What a night to leave my cell at home.”
“Can you remember the number?”
“Sure it’s 234-5678.”
“How silly of me to think that you couldn’t remember the number.”
Navette and Marcus pulled on the door of Navajo Joe’s. When it opened they could see that there were still a few patrons inside. Since there was no one at the front door they walked up to the bar and asked to borrow a phone. The bartender told them they would have to use the pay phone near the restrooms.
“What was that number?”
“Surely you are joking?”
“No I’m not. You said you could remember the number.”
“234-5678.”
Navette dialed the number and, to her delight, someone answered. She was afraid she would get an after hours message from an answering service. Navette told the person why she was calling and discovered that they did have the Jeep. “Wow, you do take credit cards. No you can’t leave now I need to get the Jeep.” Marcus could extrapolate from the conversation three facts: they had the Jeep, it was going to cost a lot to get it and the people were about to leave. “Where are you located?” “We can be there in fifteen minutes. Can you stay there that long? “Oh thank you.”
“Well, they have the Jeep, It is going to cost a lot, and they are going to wait for us.”
“Two hundred and fifty dollars. It’s only about two miles to their place, but we have to get a taxi. See if you can find the number for a taxi.”
“234-6789.”
“Oh come on. How do you know the number for the taxi?”
“It is written on the advertisement just above the phone.”
“Wise guy.” Navette punched Marcus with her fist. Her blow landed dead on his injury that he had received earlier in the day. Navette immediately realized what she had done. “Oh Marcus, I am so sorry.”
Marcus was still feeling some pain from his gunshot, but he told Navette it was ok. “Go ahead and call the taxi.”
They keep looking at the clock on the wall counting down every minute it took for the taxi to arrive. They finally heard the horn and hurried out the door to the taxi. Navette told the taxi driver where to take them. They were there in just a matter of minutes. Marcus paid the taxi driver, but asked him to wait to make sure the people had waited for them. Marcus and Navette walked up to the door which was locked, but there was a doorbell with a sign directly above. The sign said to ring doorbell for service. Marcus pushed the button and heard the bell, but no one answered. He pushed it again. “Ok, Ok, I’m coming.” This was the voice that Navette had heard in the previous telephone conversation. Marcus waved back at the taxi driver letting him know that it was ok to leave.
“You must be Tolkowsky.” Before Navette could answer he continued. “Your Jeep is in the back and that will be $250.00.” Navette gave him a credit card and he swiped the card though the card reader and pushed in the amount. “Here is your receipt. Now I will take you to your car.” They walked through the back door of the office and down a dark corridor that led to another door. They could see light through a second door. It must have been locked for the evening because the guy had to unlock it to go outside. “There it is over there.” He pointed to a blue Jeep, but Navette’s jeep was red.
“I’m sorry but that is not my Jeep.”
“Well that’s the Jeep we picked up at Navajo Joe’s.”
“You must be mistaken. There must be another Jeep.”
“We had only one call and that is the Jeep we towed.”
Now what were they going to do? That was the thought going through Marcus’s mind.
“May we use your phone?”
There was nothing to do but call Peter and he would come to get them.
The guy let her use his phone and as she was dialing the phone she changed her mind and decided to call Emerald instead. He was much more congenial lately and maybe he would help them locate the Jeep.
“Hi, Emerald. I’ve got a problem.”
Navette began describing the events of the evening to Emerald and all of a sudden the phone conversation greatly changed. “You what? Get yourself over here and pick us up.” Navette told Emerald where they were and how to get there.
“Emerald has the Jeep. He took it from Navajo Joe’s. Is he in trouble!”
“I’m sorry mister but there has been a mistake and my brother took the Jeep without me knowing. I am sorry for your trouble.”
“Why did Emerald take the Jeep?”
“Because he and Jennifer wanted to go on a beach run with some friends. This type of thing happens to Emerald when he gets with this girl. He becomes irresponsible and does silly things. Do you suppose it is love?”
“Well, I suppose it could be. Love will make you do some foolish things.”
“You guys will have to step outside. I am going to lock up now. I have been here since 5 a.m. and I’m ready to leave. Marcus and Navette again apologized for keeping him so late and they understood his desire to leave. Anyway, Emerald would be here shortly. He was at Navajo Joe’s when Navette had called.
Emerald drove up and the headlights shined directly onto Navette and Marcus.
“I hope you guys had a good time.” Navette said as she was climbing into the passenger seat. Marcus made his way past Navette and climbed into the back seat behind her.
“We did.” Emerald said. “But, I now feel bad about leaving you guys stranded. I had intended to have the Jeep back before you left.”
“Couldn’t you have asked first? Never mind, just get us home.”
Marcus stayed quite during this confrontation. He was just happy that Navette found the Jeep. “Life is good,” he thought.
The words didn’t last long. Navette turned a glance at Marcus and he was reclined back into his seat and this time Navette felt sure he was napping. But, his eyes opened as she was turning back around. He was tired, but not asleep. He was thinking about the early morning and the sunrise service. He had not been to such a service in a good while - since he and his mother would go when he was just a child. He knew this would be nothing like that experience though. This time he would be going to a huge and famous church.
Arriving back at the house, everyone quietly entered and made their way to their respective bedrooms, trying not to disturb Peter and Bright. It would be only a few hours until they would be leaving for the sunrise service. All went directly to bed in hopes of getting some sleep before Peter woke them.
Marcus, however found himself thinking about the day, how much he had enjoyed the time with Navette. Even though they had a terrible beginning, the day turned out well. In fact the day was so eventful that it seemed like three different days. The first part of the day brought the suspense, physical aspects, fear, and remorse. The second part was like meeting a new family and sharing bits of family traditions. The third part was tightening the bond between him and Navette. This had been a day of rivalry, revelry and romance. Marcus thought this was “a good day.”
“Emerald, Navette, Marcus – We leave for sunrise service in thirty minutes. Ok, guys give me a sign.”
“I’m up Dad.” Navette was the first one to give Peter the response he was looking for. Shortly after Emerald called Peter from his Blackberry to let him know that he was awake. Marcus had heard Peter and then Navette but didn’t know how to respond, so he didn’t. Navette, not sure if Marcus had heard Peter’s wake up call, went and knocked on Marcus’s door, then opened it and partially stepped in and called to Marcus.
“Marcus, are you awake?”
“Yes, but isn’t it awfully early?”
“Don’t you remember that we are going to sunrise services today?”
Marcus did remember and he couldn’t tell if he was excited or fearful about the service. But, he needn’t share this with Navette now, he just needed to respond. “Thanks for reminding me.”
It wasn’t long until Peter was again heard shouting: “Is everyone ready?”
Emerald, Navette and Marcus exited their room like the three musketeers ready for battle. One, two, three and away we go. They made their way down the stairs and gave the salute to Peter that indicated that his orders had been followed and they were ready to proceed.
Navette was still a little angry with Emerald but decided to invite him to ride to the service with her. It was a good move; Emerald continued to show a change of attitude which Navette was noticing. She wanted to encourage this change as much as possible. Emerald accepted her invitation.
“Marcus, this time you sit in the front seat and I will ride in the back.”
Navette noticed this generous remark. “Emerald, you are a changed man.”
“What do you mean?”
“Just take it as a compliment.”
It was still dark and the temperature was chilly. The Jeep was not the best vehicle for freeway driving. Emerald was getting some wind from where the window was not completely covering the opening.
“Marcus, would you mind closing the window?”
Marcus had just a little touch of claustrophobia and reluctantly closed the window. Marcus had always left a window cracked when riding in an automobile. But, he understood Emerald’s need to block the wind.
“Jennifer just couldn’t quit talking about you Marcus; you made quite an impression on her.”
“What do you mean, couldn’t stop talking about him?” Navette revealed just a little portion of jealously.
“Well, I had been talking about Marcus and the incident with Johnny yesterday morning and I guess when she finally met him, his presences solidified the person I had been talking about and it made quite an impression on her. So much that I became jealous.”
“You jealous? I can’t believe that.”
Navette was making light of this because Emerald was constantly showing signs of jealously. At least, before yesterday. Navette swelled with jealously also. Especially since Marcus made the comment last night about open relationships. Even though it was in response to a facetious statement that Navette had made. She did notice last night that there was a little spark between Marcus and Jennifer.
“Is Jennifer seeing anyone on a regular basis?”
“Not really. She has dated one of the guys in the band some, but she says that he is just a little too weird for her. He likes those games like “Grand Theft Auto,” which is something she detests.”
“She has been a friend for a long time and we remained friends even after we stopped dating. I thought that she had changed, but maybe it was me that changed and not her. I think this incident with her liking Marcus has made me realize the feeling I have for her is still there.”
Was this Navette’s brother or is it an imposter? This is more like the Emerald of high school years. She had thought he had lost all feelings for anyone except himself, but now she thinks he sees something in others that he advocates.
Marcus decided that he should join in the conversation and say something in support of his feelings toward Navette. Not that it was necessary. He was just feeling the desire from within his heart.
“Emerald, I love your sister very much, and I have no interest in Jennifer, other than, calling her a friend. So Emerald there is no need to be jealous.”
This warmed Navette’s heart; however, she still felt a deep concern over someone else’s interest in Marcus. Maybe not jealously, but a little possessiveness still remained. It was now daylight and they were getting close to their exit.
“Alright boys we need to find the exit. I lost Dad a good ways back. I don’t know the address or even the street name to use the GPS, but, the Silver Cathedral is visible from the freeway. Just help me look for it because the exit is before the cathedral and not past it. It will be to the left of the freeway.”
“I’m not sure what it will look like.” Marcus said.
“Oh, you will know it when you see it. It looks like silver, but it is all glass.”
“There, I see a huge reflection up ahead.”
“That’s it. And there is my exit.”
Navette took the exit and then the signs appeared directing them to the Silver Cathedral. The traffic was heavy. This meant that many people were going there for this service.
The Church sat high upon a hill but once they turned off the freeway they lost sight of it. The signs were easy to see and they had no difficulty knowing when to turn. In fact, it seemed like all they had to do was follow the line of traffic in front of them. “Look there are Mom and Dad.” The familiar white Lexus was three automobiles in front of them. However, the two cars in front of them were also white Lexuses.
Peter pulled into the first parking space he saw and Navette pulled in beside him. Peter got out of the car and said to Navette. “I see you were able to keep up with me.” Navette just motioned with her head to affirm.
It was a long walk to the Cathedral and everyone was walking with a very spirited pace. Once there, it was a remarkable scene. The sun was bouncing off the glass like a facet of a diamond reflecting light. It seemed like everyone arrived at the same time and they were entering through the double doors like ants entering their nest. “Just grab a seat.” Peter said, pointing to the first seats that were available. It seemed like all entering behind us were doing the same: like it was a ritual. It didn’t take long for the building to be filled to capacity. Marcus looked at his watch and it was 6:29: The service would start in one minute. Just then the organ began to play. There was a massive series of pipes extending upward; some almost touching the ceiling. This sound was something that Marcus had not heard before. It was bellowing through those massive pipes like the veracious roar of a lion. It stopped ever so suddenly; however, it must have done so purposely, to get their attention. Marcus looked at his watch again and it was exactly 6:30.
A choir began to sing and their voices filled every inch of the building. No way could you do anything other that watch and listen. Dr. Shuber always has a guest and this morning it was a vocalist that no one had heard before. Dr. Shuber however, gave him enormous accolades with special mention to his vocal capabilities. Those in attendance were just wondering why they haven’t heard of him before today. Normally Dr. Shuber interviews a well known guest and then he will have them perform. But, this time, he wanted the guest to perform first. The well-dressed gentleman stepped up to the microphone and the orchestra began to play. When he began to sing, the whole crowd began to gasp and applaud for they had never heard anything as beautiful as the sound that was coming through this persons vocal cords. Why, why has no one heard of this remarkable voice? The crowd continued to applaud and you could hear shouts: bravo, bravo. When the gentleman finished his long and well performed arias the crowd continued to clap and shout accolades of amen and bravo for another minute or two.
Dr. Shuber came to the microphone and said to the crowd: “Now you understand why I wanted you to hear him first.” The crowd continued to clap and shout amen. Dr. Shuber came to the microphone and instructed the crowd with these words. “If you will settle down I will tell you who this gentleman is and where he has been all his life.” The crowd immediately settled down: so quite that you could have heard a whisper. “His name is Paul Potts. He is a mobile phone salesman from South Wales. Remarkable, is he not?” The crowd started the clapping again only this time in unison. They were requesting another song. Dr. Shuber told the audience not to worry they would get another song from Paul later in the service. The crowd took this to mean it was time for Dr. Shuber's message and that Paul would be back later. The crowd settled down, after all Dr. Shuber was a noteworthy speaker and this is why the crowd came. Dr. Shuber delivered a wonderful message of the cross and why Jesus Christ is our reason for the season. The message reached deep inside Marcus and reminded him of his many years without attending services, he now felt he belonged back in church.
Paul came back for one last song and this time it was a traditional favorite: Easter Song. This was even more beautiful than the first song and left the crowd stunned. After the crowd settled down, they were dismissed and every one left spiritually rejuvenated.
Peter, Bright, Navette, Emerald and Marcus left with very little to say. Peter looked at them with joy in his face and said to them all: “What a great day this is.”

Untitled Novel - Chapter Twelve

The dinner was just as each could have imagined it to be. Marcus and Navette were in their own little world. The moment they shared before entering the restaurant seemed to set the evening in a romantic mode. They kept eye contact during most of the meal and their conversation seemed to be confined to each other. However, the entire evening was filled with pleasantries from each member of the dinner party.
Emerald was in rare form. His demeanor seemed calm and yet overwhelmingly comradely, as if he were an Emerald imposter. He seemed to enjoy the evening. He didn’t use nor answer his Blackberry during the evening. Navette noticed this difference more than anyone.
Peter and Bright were somewhat quiet during the evening, but you could see the “in the moment” reflect from their eyes and facial reflections. The evening was as perfect as they could have hoped for.
The food was good also, not quite as healthful as Navette would have liked, but she ate as if she were at Grandma’s house. In fact, this was close to a meal at Navette’s Polish grandma’s house. The restaurant staff made it a very special evening by doing the little extra things, like complimentary tea cakes and samples of food that no one in the group had tasted before. This uncommon attentiveness made it a more pleasurable experience.
Peter and Bright decided to catch a late movie and Emerald decided he would call up an old friend and catch up. This was the evening for Navette and Marcus to spend gazing at the stars: the ones in their eyes. They had decided on an evening walk along a beach front board walk that Navette knew about.
“Everyone have a good night.” Peter said as he and Bright were getting into the car. “Do you need a lift anywhere Emerald?”
“No. Jennifer is going to drive by here and we are going over to hang out at her friend’s house and play Wii. She said something about Dancing with the Stars.
“Navette, you and Marcus have a good time and don’t forget we will need to leave at five o’clock in the morning.”
Marcus was surprised to hear so early. “Why five?”
“It’s an hour drive to Garden City and the sunrise service begins at 6:30. That’s why they call it sunrise service.”
“I understand and I will not be late.”
“See you later Emerald.” Navette told Emerald as they climbed into the Jeep. “Are you sure you don’t need a ride?”
“No thanks.”
Navette was enjoying the change that Emerald had made. She just hoped it would last.
“It’s not far to the boardwalk, but there is something else I would like to show you first.” Navette, retraced their directions to the I-10, but instead of getting on the I-10 she went straight underneath the viaduct. Shortly they arrived at a huge shopping mall.
“Don’t tell me…we are going shopping.”
“I just wanted to show you something that I thought you would appreciate.”
“Wait! Pull over.”
“What is it?”
“There it is again.”
“What?”
“The Perfect Diamond ad.”
Marcus was looking in a small light box near the entrance of the mall. It was the ad that he had seen in Tiffany’s in New York and in DIAMOND WORLD magazine back in Bright’s office.
“That’s what I wanted to show you but not there.” Navette pulled up about 100 yards and pointed to the right. “That’s what I wanted to show you.”
There it was again. The same guy giving the same girl an engagement ring on top of a snow covered mountain. That same caption, only much larger, read- Maybe not the perfect place, but it’s the “PERFECT DIAMOND. Except, this time the ad covered the entire side of a building. This thing must have been a hundred feet high and twice as wide.
“Oh my goodness! That is magnificent. No wonder you wanted me to see this.”
“I must confess. Mom wanted me to show you this. Kind of impressive isn’t it?”
“That’s an understatement.”
“How did she get them to allow… Navette quickly stopped Marcus.
“No more questions. I have showed you the mural and now, let’s see, I believe we were going to take a moonlight stroll on the boardwalk.”
“I wish I had my camera. Or my phone or something to record this. Sammy needs to see this.”
“Sammy has already seen this.”
“What! How has Sammy seen this?”
Navette had just made a big mistake. Marcus was not supposed to know that Sammy had been here. Sammy actually came on board with D IAMOND WORLD before Marcus and Navette. Sammy felt it best not to tell Marcus.
“Well, uh, Sammy came out to see the magazine and the Perfect Diamond ad about four weeks ago.”
“Why did he come out here four weeks ago?”
“Let me start from the top. Sammy was picked for the team shortly before coming out here: four weeks ago. Justin Sloan and Mom felt it best for him to make the trip to see, well, basically what you have seen. It was all a secret then, even before you were chosen for the team. You were shot and recovering and we just didn’t see a need to tell you. Since you were selected as one of the team, the only thing we have been hiding from you is that Sammy was the first selected. After me, of course.”
This wasn’t making Marcus feel any better about how he obtained this new job that he wasn’t even supposed to know about. But, again, he talked to himself and decided to enjoy the rest of the holiday.
“Whatever.” Marcus looked at Navette and somehow mustered up a smile. “Let’s find that boardwalk.”
Navette had wished she had not brought Marcus to see the mural. She feared it had changed the mood of the evening.
“I agree.”
Neither Marcus nor Navette said a word until they arrived at a busy night spot near the beach. There was a big red and yellow neon sign flashing on the outside of the building “Navajo Joe’s.” The parking lot was full and Navette found a spot just off the lot on the sand.
“Are we stopping here?” Marcus asked.
“The boardwalk starts behind Navajo Joe’s.”
“Seems to be a popular spot.”
“Yes it is, but it is more country and western.”
“What do you say, we check it out?”
“Oh, I’m not sure, Marcus. Do you line dance?”
“I tried it once.”
“It might be fun.”
They entered through two large double doors and a tall guy wearing a Budweiser cap and tee shirt that pictured a large bottle of Budweiser and the words “Life begins with a Bud” asked them if they cared to learn the two-step. Marcus and Navette were here to enjoy themselves so they said sure. The guy handed them a bottle of beer and instructed them to hold on the bottle with the left hand and to grab hold of the bottle cap with the right and step one was to twist off the cap. Step two was to bring the bottle up to your lips and take a drink. “Now you know the two-step. The music will begin in just a few minutes. Enjoy yourselves.”
Marcus and Navette found this to be clever and the atmosphere seemed to be warm and friendly. There was music playing but no one was dancing. They could see a band setting up their equipment on a small stage in the back. Marcus looked around for a table but all seemed to be occupied. Even the bar was packed with patrons standing.
“You guys want to join us.”
“What are you doing here?” This was Navette’s response when she saw that it was Emerald who was asking.
“I could say the same about you,” he replied.
“Navette, you remember Jennifer, don’t you?”
“Yes, I do.”
“Jennifer this is Marcus, the one I have been telling you about.”
“Hi Jennifer.”
“I hear you are the hero of this family.”
“I would prefer not to be called a hero. I just responded without thinking and lived though it.”
Navette wasn’t sure she even wanted to stay at this place but so far it looked like an ok place to be a night club, but it still had beer odor that she wasn’t too crazy about. But, Marcus, however, accepted the invitation graciously.
“We would love to join you two. Have you guys been here before?”
“Jennifer has. In fact, it was her idea to come tonight.”
“I haven’t been in a while,” Jennifer said.
“Jennifer, is your brother still in New York?”
Jennifer’s brother and Navette had dated during their early college years. It seemed he was quite a party nut and Navette just didn’t fit into his crowd.
“No, he moved back to LA and he is why we are here tonight. Our band is playing tonight.”
Just then Austin, Jennifer’s brother, was welcoming everyone to Navajo Joe’s.
“Hi everybody, I’m Austin Clemmons and we are Clemmons and Clemmons.”
It just hit Navette and Marcus that Jennifer had said our band. Emerald looked at Marcus and Navette, while shaking his head with a yes motion. He seemed kind of proud of Jennifer and her band. “Jennifer is the other half of Clemmons and Clemmons.”
“That’s great.” Marcus said as the band began to play. “I have never known a real live band member before.”
“This is our first big gig and I am a little nervous.”
Emerald wanted to give Jennifer support. “I know you will do just fine. I remember when you sang at your sister’s wedding, I knew then that voice would take you places.”
“Thanks, wish me luck.” Jennifer pushed back her chair.
“Break a leg.” Emerald said and everyone looked at him with disgust. “Isn’t that what you are supposed to say?”
Navette, trying to cover up for her brother’s inadequacy, reaffirmed her abilities. “Jennifer, you will do just great, I’m sure.”
Jennifer walked up to the stage just as the first song was ending and immediately the band started with another song and Austin walked up to the mike and introduced Jennifer by saying: “This is the other half of Clemmons and Clemmons, my sister Jennifer.” That is when Jennifer walked up to the mike and this beautiful voice rang out over the dance hall and practically everyone in the building jumped up from their seats and went to the dance floor. The crowd liked what they heard.
Marcus was just thinking how the evening had turned out. Again not quite what he expected, but he was enjoying himself. At least, until Navette asked him to dance. She wanted to move his attention away from the band and onto her. They moved on to the dance floor and the regulars seemed to open a spot for them. It was awkward at first, but they seemed to get the hang of it when the song ended. Before they even thought whether or not they would stay for one more dance the band started with another song that kept them on the dance floor. However, everyone lined up as if they were in a choreographed production twisting and stomping with such unison that Navette and Marcus had to concentrate just to keep from getting in the way of the others. Marcus turned the wrong way and found himself wrapped around Navette. They both laughed and found themselves again close to remembering the next move when the song ended. They had decided to sit the next one out. Then the band started to play again, but this time it was a slow song. One where not as much concentration would have to be made on the next dance move, but more concentration on the “next move.” They decided to stay for one more.
It was midnight before they made it to the boardwalk. The temperature had dropped and it was chilly. They walked for a ways and found a bench where a rock wall blocked the wind. They cuddled up next to each other and began to discuss the night club, Jennifer and her band and their experience on the dance floor. Navette was telling Marcus how Jennifer and Emerald met and that she and Austin met because of Emerald and Jennifer’s friendship. Marcus seemed to be listening very contently. Navette now was thinking he was listening too contently. She decided to see if he were listening or sleeping.
“Austin and I had a very open relationship; he was seeing this married woman while we were dating.” There was no response from Marcus. She felt very confident that he was asleep.
“I don’t mean to be rude, but if he was seeing some married woman while you two were dating, then you wouldn’t mind if I ask Jennifer out.”
Navette jumped up and grabbed both of his wrists and looked him straight in the eye. “You don’t dare ask her out Marcus Holmes.”
Marcus laughed and stood up. “I’m hungry. Let’s go get a coffee and donut.”
They walked back to where they had parked the Jeep. “Are you sure this is where you parked. The place doesn’t look the same with all the cars gone.” It was the place and the Jeep was no where to be seen.”

Untitled Novel - Chapter Eleven

Bill drove off with Johnny. Everyone hoped that this would be their last encounter with Johnny. Surely, the judge would not allow him to post bail. After all, he had attempted murder charges, aggravated robbery charges, violation of a restraining order and numerous other charges. If this were the case, there would be no need for Marcus and Navette to go back to New York. Peter paid the taxi for his trouble and all except Madina went to the garden area around the pool. Madina returned to her duties inside the house.
Peter sat down at an umbrella covered table and Bright, Navette and Marcus joined him. “Wow, what a day! I hope that the rest of this weekend will be quieter. Marcus, this is not a typical Easter weekend in California. I think we should attend sunrise services tomorrow and possibly we could align ourselves to the purpose of our life and find peace again.”
Bright was the first to respond. “I think that would be an excellent idea.” After the service we could meet Bill and Shirley at the harbor for our traditional trip to Dream Island.”
This is the first that Marcus had heard of this tradition. He leaned over to Navette and whispered into her ear. “Traditional trip to Dream Island?”
“It will be fun… something Dad and Mom started when Emerald and I were kids.”
The day had definitely been exciting and stressful for all especially Marcus. The day involved seeing the famous Hollywood sign, learning about “Diamond World,” getting shot, tackling a robber, meeting a spiritualist housekeeper, being jerked from a taxi and threatened by the same person that had shot him earlier, and tackling this criminal again. Marcus felt a little peace would be a good thing. “This sounds like a wonderful idea Peter.”
Peter was glad that Marcus had come out to their California home but the weekend had not exactly been enjoyable, but he was hopeful about tomorrow.
“Mr. Tolkowsky. Mr. Bill is on the phone.”
“Yes Bill.” Peter listened intently to Bill while the others waited with anticipation to know what Bill was telling Peter. “The judge revoked the bail and Johnny is locked up. He will have a hearing next week, but Bill says he has confessed to all charges. He will probably make a deal, but he expects Johnny will have to serve a couple of years at least. Sorry Madina, but maybe this will be for his own good.”
“I hope so Mr. Tolkowsky. I hope so.”
Everyone sighed, hoping that the ordeal was over.
“We are invited next door for an evening dinner. Marcus, did you bring your tux?”
“He is just kidding you Marcus. You won’t need a tux. Dr. Stuber has an Easter eve communion and the dress code is come as you are. The food will be light, only wine and crackers.”
“This would not happen to be Dr. Robert Stuber would it?”
“Yes, do you know Dr. Stuber?
“No, but I have read his book. Sammy gave it to me. He is a remarkable man.”
“I am glad you think so, Marcus. You will have the opportunity to meet him personally tonight.” Tomorrow you will get to hear him speak at the Silver Cathedral. We will have a traditional polish meal tonight at a local restaurant.”
“So you are polish?”
“Yes, my heritage is polish but I was born and spent most of my childhood in Belgium.”
“I always thought you were Jewish.”
“I know, but since I was incognito as a hot dog vendor I thought I would let you continue to think that. After all, it is not the first time that I have been mistaken as Jewish.”
The afternoon was dwindling and everyone agreed that at five o’clock they would need to dress for the evening. Marcus and Navette continue to lounge around the pool. Peter went into the house to make some phone calls. Bright decided to relax in the Jacuzzi with a good book.
The sun was very warm and Navette and Marcus both fell asleep. The relaxing sleep quickly ended when a splash from the pool woke them. It was Emerald.
When he surfaced Navette shouted to Emerald. “What are you doing here?”
“All the flights to New York have been cancelled.”
“Cancelled?”
“Yes cancelled. Something about maintenance issues. I know you are disappointed.”
Emerald climbed out of the pool and grabbed a towel. “Marcus, I want to thank you for your bravery. I was stupid thinking I could just push the panic button and security would take care of this guy. I didn’t have the sense to anticipate a better opportunity.”
Navette lowered her head and brushed her hair back from her face and then looked up to Emerald. “That blow must have knocked some of that obnoxious attitude from your head. Maybe there is hope for you.”
“You may be right, I’ve had some time to think about it and I now realize that life is not a guarantee. I should live each moment as a gift.”
“Marcus, I do believe my brother has had an epiphany. We are going to Dr. Stuber’s for communion tonight. You’ll have to join us.”
“Maybe I will.”
Emerald had not joined the family traditions for the past few years and it was good for Navette to see this change of heart. Emerald, Navette and Marcus enjoyed a delightful conversation. When time came, they each left to freshen up and dress for the night.
“Is everyone ready?” Peter shouted from the hallway. “It is time we go.”
Marcus, felt as though he had been fighting a bear. His muscles were aching and his wound was burning. But, he was looking forward to the evening. Marcus left his room about the same time as Emerald. Emerald reached and gave a vigorous tap to Marcus’s back. This was done in a friendly and congratulatory manner but Emerald’s hand just happened to hit a sore spot. Marcus cringed and quickly pulled away. “Oh I’m sorry.”
“That’s ok; I’m just a little sore.”
“I could imagine, you were shot, tackled a guy twice your size and all this while recovering from surgery from another gunshot. Marcus, has your life always been this exciting?”
Peter witnessed this exchange between Emerald and Marcus and was very pleased with Emeralds effort to be friendly. “Have you two decided you have something in common?”
“What’s that Dad?”
“You both discovered you have a purpose in life.”
“What would our purpose be?”
“I don’t know, you haven’t achieved it yet. Otherwise you both would have been dead.”
“I think Bright is ready. Let’s go over to Dr. Stuber's now.”
Marcus didn’t know if this was a short walk or if they would take a vehicle. Navette appeared when Marcus and Emerald were near the bottom of the steps. Emerald looked up toward her. “We are ready to go, Sis.” Emerald hadn’t called her Sis since high school. It was refreshing to bring back those times: when she and Emerald seemed to have more in common. Navette sped her decent down the steps and joined Emerald and Marcus as they were catching up with Peter and Bright. Marcus was somewhat surprised when they left through the gate from the pool area. They followed a path made of rock and flat rocks used as stepping stones. The walk was quite enchanting with small patches of flowers, and metal sculptures that had rusted from the salt in the ocean breeze. Hardly a word was spoken during the short journey. Emerald did make a comment to Peter. “Dad, if you were to guess what my purpose in life is, what would it be?”
“Could be anything, Marcus. You will just have to follow the path of opportunity. It will be revealed at the proper time.”
This was a question that you might expect Emerald to ask when he was eight years of age, not at twenty-eight. This epiphany that Emerald experienced must have been life changing or, at least, a life awakening one. They turned off the path to walk between two tall Italian spruce trees and arrived at a house made of seemingly all glass. They walked around the house to the front entrance. Several vehicles lined the drive and there was a large receiving line entering the open doors. Everyone was sharing the event by greeting one another with handshakes and introductions. The line was moving quite slowly. Marcus was much aware of communion, but had not experienced it in this way before. It was usually in a church building and not in someone’s home, so he had some questions. “Why does Dr. Stuber have this communion in his home and not the church building?”
“This communion is by special invitation only. If you look around you, there are people of importance. What I mean to say, these are people in the news, recognizable people, who choose not to go to public places due to being recognized and creating a spectacle and take away from the experience of the communion. Dr. Stuber discovered the need when President Ronald Regan told him of his personal experience. He offered this service to President Regan shortly after his last term and the word spread to those of similar prominence.”
Peter paused his explanation long enough to greet a tall gentleman dressed in Nike running clothes. “Good to see you Governor, First Lady.”
It was Governor Schwarzenegger and the First Lady. “Good to see you.” The Governor replied.
Peter didn’t know the Governor personally but this is the type of greeting that was appropriate at such a gathering. Peter didn’t ask him for an autograph or discuss political or governmental issues. He just recognized him in a very polite way.
“Marcus, this is what I mean, no spectacle; therefore, we can focus on Godly reverence and not earthly reverence.”
Marcus was stunned that such a meeting took place right beside him. He looked at Navette and Emerald and they just smiled and took two more steps forward. Marcus then began to look closely at the people in the line and there was ________ ________ just a little ways behind him. He caught himself wanting to give her his spot but remembered what Peter said about making a spectacle. Two more came out of the room and Navette practically began to melt. One was ________ ____________. His eyes never met Navette’s, but hers definitely looked him over. They were entering into the huge room with seeming no walls other than glass. This distinguished gray haired gentleman, who Marcus assumed was Dr. Stuber, was being assisted by two other distinguished gentlemen of a younger age. The line moved slowly but consistently and within 30 minutes from arriving they had all received the bread and wine. This was a solemn spiritual feeling that rejuvenated the heart. It was a gratifying experience.
As Bright turned to leave the room, to Marcus’s surprise, she leaned over to _____ _______ and whispered something in her ear. Ms. _______ replied with a simple “Thank you Bright.” This meant that the two knew each other and that was ok with Marcus. What followed next was even more ok. Ms. _______’s eyes met with Marcus’s eyes. “Are you the New York hero I have been reading about? You’re Marcus Holmes, aren’t you?” This left Marcus speechless. She politely shook Marcus’s hand. “It is a pleasure to meet you Marcus.”
“You too.”
They moved on without any more collating of information. This was something that Bright asked her to do. But, it still was going to be something Marcus would remember and tell everyone about.
Peter, Bright, Navette, Marcus and Emerald returned home the same way in which they had come. They decided to go to the restaurant in two different vehicles. Peter, Bright and Emerald went in the Lexus while Navette and Marcus took the Jeep.
Navette shouted to her dad just before he got into the car. “I think I know how to get there, but I never have driven there before. Could you just remember that I am following?”
“Just set your GPS.”
Navette seemed a little embarrassed but instead of setting the GPS, she simply drove off following Peter. “I don’t trust those things. I have been lost following the directions the GPS gives and once I nearly turned the wrong direction onto a one way street when the stupid thing told me to turn.”
Navette was able to follow Peter until they turned on to 405 and that is when she lost her dad. It seems like half the folks in California drive White Lexuses. She first thought she could find her way. “I know to take I-10 toward Sana Monica, but I don’t know where to get off I-10.”
“Do you know the address of the restaurant?”
“No I don’t”
“Just call you’re dad on his cell and ask him.”
“Good idea except I didn’t bring my cell. Use yours.”
“I left mine in New York, don’t you remember? What is the name of the restaurant?”
“Warszawa. Why?”
“Well, I thought I would keep an eye out for advertisement sign.”
“This looks like where I turn.”
“No this will take you to the Marina. That’s were we had the pizza. What do you say we just go to the café and order a pizza, I’m not sure I want to eat at a Polish restaurant anyway.”
“We will have to call Mom and Dad. It would be wrong to just not show up.”
Navette pulled into a gas market and went inside to get directions, something a woman would think about doing. She came out shortly and said “We should have gotten off of I-10 one exit back. But, we can go over two blocks and then it’s only a few blocks to the restaurant.”
“Look, there’s a public phone, just call your dad and tell him we are lost and we will just have pizza.”
“He will be so disappointed. He loves this ritual and I hate to disappoint him.”
Marcus again had to agree with Navette. It seems he has been doing a lot of that lately.
“We are looking for Lincoln Street.”
“There it is, Lincoln.”
“The restaurant should be about 5 or 6 blocks.”
“Order the sausage; it’s the most unhealthful food on the menu.”
“What did you say”
“Order the sausage.”’
“I suppose you are going to have a Polish salad.”
“I just might. There is a great Polish cucumber salad. And I usually get the noodle and cabbage without the sausage of course. Then I will have the tea cakes for dessert.”
“That doesn’t sound all that bad, except I will have to have the sausage.”
“Here we are.”
After getting out of the Jeep, Marcus walked over to Navette. He stopped her from rushing in the restaurant by placing his hands on her shoulders and looking into her eyes. With a soft and suggestive voice, he said, “I love you Navette Tolkowsky.” Marcus then kissed her, not as a single smack on the cheeks, but a long involved kiss.
Navette wrapped her arms around Marcus and returned the kiss with all the sensuousness which the kiss was given. Navette felt her heart pumping faster and faster. Marcus and Navette seemed to withdraw from the kiss at the same time. After all, a family dinner at a Polish restaurant was hardly the place. Navette reached for Marcus’s hand and they went into the restaurant. Navette now wished she had taken Marcus’s idea of pizza at the marina.
“We would like to join the Tolkowsky’s table please,” Navette said to the hostess. Then Navette turned and flirtatiously smiled at Marcus.
“Follow me.” The hostess then lead them to a large table that was slightly obscured from sight, but with a window view that would have been picture perfect for Marcus and Navette’s romantic moment.

UNTITLED NOVEL- CHAPTER TEN

Marcus looked at Madina and smiled and she smiled in return. This was when Marcus knew that Madina would become a good friend. Peter and Navette drove up just as the ambulance and security were pulling away. Peter and Navette quickly ran into the house. They didn’t know what had happened so they exuberantly asked many questions.
“What wrong? Who is in the ambulance? Why was security here?”
“Just a moment, Peter. We need to go to the hospital and check on Emerald. I will tell you all about it on the way. Marcus can inform Navette.”
“What happened to Emerald?” Peter and Navette asked almost simultaneously.
Navette was afraid that Emerald had opened his big mouth and he and Marcus had fought and Emerald had been injured. This was the first thing that came to her mind knowing her brother’s antagonistic behavior, not that Marcus was prone to violence.
“He was hit in the head with the butt of a gun.”
“A butt of a gun?" Navette repeated as she looked toward Marcus as though he might have done it.
“Yes, I told you it is a long story. We need to get to the hospital. I will tell your father then Marcus and Madina can tell you. Let’s go Peter.”
Peter and Bright left Marcus and Navette standing in the foyer, Madina had already returned to the kitchen. Navette looked at Marcus and was not sure she wanted to hear what she was about to hear.
“Let’s go to the kitchen and you and Madina can tell me all about it.”
Navette and Marcus walked into the kitchen where they discovered Madina with her elbows on the counter and her hands covering her face. It appeared she was or had been crying. Marcus walked over, laid his hand on her shoulder and asked if she was all right.
“I am all right Mr. Marcus, I am sorry that my brother shot you and Mr. Emerald got hurt. I wish Johnny had taken after Mama rather than Papa.”
“I am all right and I’m sure Emerald will be all right too. Don’t worry. You can’t help what your brother does. If you could, what happened today would not have happened. He will just have to realize himself that he needs to change.”
Navette couldn’t wait any longer. “Ok, someone is going to have to tell me what happened. There was a shooting?”
Marcus took a seat at the counter. “Yes. I will try to explain but Madina may have to jump in.”
Marcus told Navette the story while Madina prepared lunch. It seemed that the healthy groceries were still in the Jeep that Peter and Bright drove to the hospital.
Navette was worried about Emerald. She called her father on his cell phone.

“Dad, how’s Emerald?”
Madina and Marcus were just hearing one end of this conversation and wondering what was being said. “That’s good news. Madina has lunch almost finished, since we left the groceries in the jeep. We’ll see you soon.”
“It sounds like Emerald is going to be all right.”
“Yes, but, he has a concussion and a very bad headache. They will be home soon.”
“Thank the Lord.” Madina exclaimed while raising her hands toward the ceiling.”
“Marcus, you have a knack of being at the wrong place at the right time. You helped that girl in New York and then you helped Mrs. Tolkowsky save her ring. And, both times someone shot at you.” Madina was sorry that Johnny had caused all this trouble. “How can I make it up to you Mr. Marcus?”
Marcus smiled. “You don’t have to do anything else Madina. You have already done enough.”
“Why, what have I done Mr. Marcus?”
“You have given me a glimpse of your soul, Madina. While we were holding hands and you were praying, I felt as if I had known you forever. Your words touched me in a way I had never been touched before. I just know you will be my friend forever. The same thing happened when I first met Joe.”
“Who is Joe, Mr. Marcus?”
“Oh, that’s another name I have for Peter.”
Navette didn’t want Marcus to go into detail about Joe. “You can tell that story later. What did you and Mom talked about today?”
“We had a good conversation. She told me a little about the magazine and I got an opportunity to look closely through some past issues and I am really impressed.”
“Did she tell you about how the magazine got started?
“No she didn’t. How did it get started?”
“Well, it was before Mom and Dad married. They were dating and on a ski trip in Colorado. Dad had planned to ask Mom to marry him. But, Mom was working for Tolkowsky Diamonds and she would have to quit if they became engaged. It was a family thing. None of the Tolkowsky’s wives worked in the organization. In fact none of the wives worked at all. Well, while they were at the slopes they saw an old acquaintance: Mom’s old boyfriend. This guy had proposed to Mom on this same mountain a year earlier, but she turned him down. He owned a magazine named JEWELRY WORLD; Mom had worked for him for a number of years. Mom had met Dad and, you know that thing you said about when you first met Dad you knew he was going to be your friend; well that’s what Mom said. She felt she had found a friend and possibly a soul mate. She just could not marry this man after meeting Dad. Mom evidentially quit her job at “JEWELRY WORLD.” She was very uncomfortable working there after she had turned the boss’s marriage proposal down.
Dad hired Mom at Tolkowsky Diamonds soon after she quit. By this time Mom and Dad were dating heavily and Dad felt bad about Mom quitting her job. Mom really loved the magazine and missed it very much. Anyway, it turned out that Mom’s old boyfriend was there to propose to another woman and he was going to sell the magazine and move to Europe with his new bride. Dad saw the opportunity and offered to buy the Magazine. And, that’s when Mom went back to the work she loved. Dad bough the magazine and changed the name to ‘DIAMOND WORLD” and the rest is history.
“The ad makes sense now.”
“What ad?”
“There was this ad about a Perfect Diamond, and I just got the point of the ad. That is a neat story. I am glad you told me.”
“So, what do you think about the whole situation.”
“I am excited. I am a little concerned as to what role I will play at Sloan. I mean the role they will want me to play. However, I know that I will learn a lot and overall it will be a good thing for me. I also know I am excited to be on the team with you. And Sammy?”
“Sammy will be on the team as well.”
“Why am I the last one to know these things? I guess I should be thankful that I have all these people looking out for me, but sometimes I feel useless directing my own life. Why is Sammy a part of the team?”
“Sammy being on the team has nothing to do with Dad or Mom. Margaret is responsible for Sammy being on the team. Margaret put in a good word for Sammy to Mr. Sloan. She knew that Sammy wanted something a little more challenging. Somehow she got wind of this team and felt like Sammy would enjoy working with the two of us. But, like me, Sammy was told not to mention this to you.”
“What am I to do, I mean, it’s a secret right?”
“You will just have to pretend that you know nothing when Sloan talks to you Monday.”
Marcus reached to his side and felt something wet under his arm. He then felt pain. Looking at his hand he saw something that looked like blood. He had discovered an injury he did not know he had. Navette saw this also.
“What is it? You’re bleeding.”
“I must have injured myself when I tackled Madina’s brother.”
“Take your shirt off and let’s take a look.”
Marcus took his shirt off and there was a long gash in his side. It looked as if he had been cut with a knife. Navette suggested they go to the bathroom and clean the wound.
“You were shot.” Madina spoke as if she knew this.
“You said that when you were describing the incidents earlier”
“I felt it when you were shot.”
“Madina, what do mean you felt it?”
“Just as the shot was fired I felt this burning in my side. I knew you had been hit. The pain wasn’t very bad, so I knew you would be all right.”
“I would like to talk about this special gift you have.”
“You two can talk about that later. Now we need to get you bandaged up.”
Marcus and Navette went to the bathroom and washed the wound and put a bandage on it. As they returned to the kitchen, Peter and Bright and Emerald had just arrived. Emerald had a big bandage on his head. Marcus hadn’t put his shirt back on and his bandage was very obvious also.
“What happened to you Marcus?”
“When Johnny shot at me the bullet must have grazed me.” It is just a superficial wound. I will be all right.” Marcus put his shirt back on and looking at Emerald’s head inquired about him. “What about you Emerald? How is your head?”
“Right now it is not hurting. They gave me something for the pain. That guy could have killed me. I hope he stays in prison for life.”
Marcus looked over to Madina and saw that she was sinking deeper into remorse for having involved everyone in her personal troubles. Marcus was trying to think of something to say that would make Madina feel better. But before he could say anything, Bright spoke up.
“Emerald, that guy is Madina’s brother, could you not have a little more sympathy in your words. I’m sure that Madina doesn’t want her brother to stay in prison for the rest of his life.”
“That’s all right Mrs. Tolkowsky; Johnny is already on the street.”
“I just felt a sense of trouble come over me and I just know he is out of jail. He has friends that get him out of these things.”
Emerald seemed to be overcome with fear again. “You mean that guy is out of jail. He is probably going to come back over and get even with us. He will kill us all. I’m leaving. I’ll see you guys back in New York.”
Emerald went upstairs to pack his overnight bag. Marcus thought that Emerald was a little paranoid. After all, Johnny could still be locked up. But, Madina had this special gift that tells her things: like him being shot. Maybe he was out and maybe he was going to get even. Johnny still needed that paper signed.”
“Lunch is ready.” Madina called out. “I am sorry it is so late.”
They all sat down to a delightful meal of chicken salad sandwiches and macaroni and cheese. Macaroni and cheese is one of Peter’s favorite dishes.
“Thank you, Madina for making my favorite dish.”
“My pleasure, Mr. Tolkowsky.”
“The groceries, they are still in the car.”
Marcus wanting Peter to enjoy his favorite dish volunteered to get the groceries. “You enjoy your Mac and cheese and I will go get the groceries.”
As Marcus was walking toward the door the doorbell rang. The first thought was that this could be Johnny. Emerald was coming down the steps when the doorbell rang. Emerald quickly turned and ran back up the steps. Peter jumped up from his seat in the kitchen and walked toward the front door. Marcus looked out the peep hole and then opened the door. It was the officer that had been there before.
“Hi officer.”
“Hi. I just wanted to let you know that Johnny is out of jail. The judge placed a half million dollar bail on him, but someone bailed him out. I don’t know who it was but they must have been wealthy.”
This was the news they had feared. It is exactly what Madina had predicted.
“I don’t think he will be back, but you never know what goes through these guys’ heads.”
“The judge placed an order for him not to return to this address. But, that usually doesn’t stop them. If you see any sign of him, give us a call”
Marcus went out to the car to get the groceries. A taxi drove up. Emerald ran out and jumped into the taxi without saying a word. The taxi drove off and Emerald was off to New York.
Marcus brought the groceries back in and set them down on the kitchen counter. Peter, Bright and Navette were discussing what to do if Johnny returned. They all were concerned about Madina; her brother would still want her to sign the papers.
“How can we keep him away?”
“We can’t.”
“Madina, do you have anywhere to go where he wouldn’t know where to find you? Do you have any other relatives who leave nearby?”
“No, Mr. Tolkowsky. The rest of my family live back east. I’ll be all right. I don’t think Johnny will hurt me.”
“We can’t take that chance. Madina. You stay here tonight. Navette, you and Marcus pack your things and fly back to Manhattan.”
“Dad, we can’t just leave you and Mom here.”
“We will be fine. I will call Bill and have him send a security officer over to keep a watch. I don’t think Johnny will come back, he will probably skip the country.”
“It didn’t take long for Navette and Marcus to pack. They were all together waiting for the taxi. Madina was working in the laundry room when they heard her shout. “Oh my Lord.” She came rushing into the room, “Mr. Marcus, you can’t go now.”
“Why Madina?”
“Something bad is going to happen.”
“You had another premonition didn’t you?”
“Yes, and you should not leave.”
A horn blew outside. It was probably just the taxi, but it startled Madina and she screamed out. “Oh my!”
Peter went to the door and peered through the peep hole in the door. It was the taxi. “It’s just the taxi. Come on you two, just get to the airport and you can catch the red eye if nothing else.”
Marcus picked up his and Navette’s bags and thanked Peter and Bright for their hospitality and wished them good luck. He and Navette got into the taxi and as the taxi was pulling away another black SUV pulled in front of them. It was Johnny. He came up to the taxi and opened the back door on Marcus’s side. He grabbed Marcus and pulled him out of the taxi. He pulled a handgun from his back pocket and pointed it at Marcus’ head. “I missed you last time but I won’t miss now.”
At that time a car pulled up almost hitting Marcus and Johnny. Johnny turned stepped aside to dodge the car and Marcus was able to get leverage again to drop Johnny to the ground. The car that almost struck them was Bill. He drew his weapon and ordered Johnny to slide his weapon to the side. Johnny hesitated and Bill placed his foot on Johnny’s shoulder and ordered Johnny again to slide his weapon over to the side: telling him not to be stupid. Johnny again was reluctant to do as Bill had ordered. Johnny made a sudden effort to rise up and that is when Marcus gave him a blow to the lower back and Johnny went back down. Bill again ordered Johnny to slide the weapon over to him. This time Johnny did as Bill asked and then Bill placed cuffs on Johnny and put him in the back seat of the car. Peter, Bright and Madina all witnessed this from the front door of the house.
“Peter, you didn’t call me anytime too soon.

Untitled Novel - Chapter Nine

Bright never made it to the bedroom. As she walked by the kitchen, Madina was cleaning up.

“Hi Madina. How is that grandchild? She must be talking by now.”

“She is growing like a weed Mrs. Tolkowsky. She calls her mama, Mama-one and me Mama-two. I see that your whole family is here for Easter.”

“Yes they are, and you need to meet Marcus.”

“Oh, I have heard about Mr. Marcus from Navette. She called me when Papa died and she told me all about him and she was hoping he would come with her. I hope he is doing ok after getting shot.”

“He is doing just fine. He is in my office. You can meet him after he absorbs my last year’s work.”

“I noticed that even Mr. Emerald made it home this time.”

“Yes, but I don’t think he will spend much time with us. He is going to a lecture in San Diego this afternoon. I think I will go freshen up. Navette and Peter are out on the water today. But, I think Navette is preparing lunch today. They are going to stop by the market before coming home. If there is anything you need, just give them a call.”

“Mrs. Tolkowsky, there is something I need. I am having trouble with my brother, Johnny. We are trying to settle my father’s business, and I found out that Papa had been betting on the horses and he owes a lot of money to people. They are getting mean about it. My brother wants to give them Papa’s house. But the house is better than the place I live. I want to move into Papa’s house and pay my brother rent for his half. I don’t think gambling is right and I don’t want to give them Papa’s house.”

“How much does your father owe them?”

“Oh, he owes them a bunch, Mrs. Tolkowsky. I think it is more than fifty thousand dollars.”

“Have you met these people?”

“No, I haven’t. My brother has met with them. To be honest, Mrs. Tolkowsky, I think Johnny owes them money, too.”

“Don’t do anything just yet Madina. I think Peter should have his friend Bill look into it. Bill is good at these types of things. If you would just tell me how to get in touch with your brother, I will relay that to Peter.”

“I will write his phone number and address down and leave it here on the counter.”

“Don’t worry; I am sure we can work this out.”

Bright was very concerned about Madina’s problem. It sounded as if her brother was trying to mislead her. Bright left the kitchen and was once again making her way to her bedroom when the phone rang. Madina answered. “You’ve reached the Tolkowsky home.”

Madina quickly recognized the voice and Bright heard Madina reply with a distrustful sounding voice. “What kind of papers?”

Bright came to the conclusion that it was Madina’s brother on the phone.

“I think we should wait.” Madina spoke firmly and then turned around to see if Mrs. Tolkowsky was still there: looking for her support. “I don’t want you coming over here.”

Madina hung up the phone and looked at Mrs. Tolkowsky. “That was Johnny, my brother, and he is coming over here to get me to sign some papers that will give Papa’s house to those crooks. I am so sorry Mrs. Tolkowsky, I told him not to come over, but he is coming anyway. He can be a bunch of trouble. He just hasn’t found Jesus yet.”

“When did he say he was coming?”

“Right now, he said he would be here in about five minutes.”

Bright didn’t like the sound of this and told Emerald, who was coming down the steps, not to leave.

“Why, what’s up?”

“We have a situation with Madina’s brother wanting to sign a paper that would, in essence, cheat her out of her dad’s house. I don’t think this is right and I don’t have time to do anything about it other than preventing Madina from signing the papers. You will have to stay until he is gone.”

“Why should we get involved in this? It’s none of our business.”

“You didn’t hear me. He is trying to cheat Madina and that would be our business.”

“Those kind can be dangerous. We don’t even have a gun in this house. If he gets violent how are we going to defend ourselves?”

“I don’t think it will come to that. If you ever want to come into this house again, you will do as I say.”

The doorbell rang. Madina came to answer, but discovered Mrs. Tolkowsky and Emerald standing in the hallway.

“Go ahead Madina, answer the door, but don’t sign anything until we can have Peter and Bill look it over.”

Madina opened the door and a tall and somewhat overweight man stood in the door way. “Sign right here.” This was Madina’s brother giving her these commands.

Madina did what Mrs. Tolkowsky had told her and refused to sign the papers. This is not what he wanted to hear. It made him angry and he reached behind his waist and pulled a handgun from his back pocket and pointed it toward Madina. Just then, he noticed Bright and Emerald standing in the entrance way. He pushed himself inside, holding the gun out in front, waving it, pointing it towards Madina, then to Bright and then to Emerald and back again.

“I have no beef with you two. I just want Madina to sign the papers and I am out of here.”

Emerald stepped up and pointed his finger. “You don’t come into our home and wave a gun around. I suggest you leave before security finds out you’re here.”

Emerald took one step, reached around Johnny, and pushed the panic alarm. Johnny realized what Emerald had done, but instead of leaving, as Emerald thought, he hit Emerald with the blunt end of the gun and slammed the door shut. Emerald was knocked to the floor. Emerald grabbed his head, indicating he was in great pain, and he was trembling with fear. Bright stooped down to take a look at Emerald’s head.

Madina stormed out at her brother. “You can’t come in here and beat up on this family. I won’t have it. You get out of here before the police come.”

“I am not going anywhere until you sign these papers.”

“I am not signing any papers.”

“You will sign these papers or your friends will die.”

He pointed the gun to Bright and Emerald. Madina felt she had no choice but to sign the papers. “Give me those papers.”

Madina quickly signed the papers and threw them at Johnny and shouted. “Now get out of here.”

Marcus heard the voices and stopped short of making himself visible. He could tell it was some kind of confrontation but wasn’t sure what it was about.

“There is something else I want before I leave. I want that diamond on your finger. Give it to me lady.”

Marcus heard this and stepped into the hall.

“What’s going on here?”

Marcus startled Johnny. He must have assumed that Marcus was the security. He pointed and fired his gun in the direction of Marcus. Marcus fell to the floor.

“Give me the ring!” He demanded as he grabbed Bright by her hair.

She handed him the ring, hoping he would then just leave. Backing carefully toward the door, holding the gun in a horizontal position waving it back and forth, keeping an eye on everyone. Was he going to shoot again and again until they were all dead or was he just going to leave? He opened the door, turned and began to leave. At that moment, Marcus, in a run, leaped forward and tackled the guy like an all pro defensive tackle. Johnny hit the ground face first. The gun went sailing onto the driveway and skidding for at least twenty-five feet. It was a hard fall. It rattled Johnny badly, almost to the extent of unconsciousness. The timing of the security was excellent. Before Johnny could regain full consciousness, the patrolman had cuffs on him.

With an emotional cry Bright called out to Marcus. “Marcus, are you alright? I thought you were shot.”

“I was hoping he would think that too. So I just remained still until I could figure out what to do next. Did you find your ring?”

“No!”

“Officer, wait a minute. He has a ring in his pocket that belongs to Mrs. Tolkowsky.”

The officer retrieved the ring and gave it to Marcus. Marcus then walked back and handed the ring to Bright.

“Thanks, Marcus.”

Marcus and Mrs. Tolkowsky walked back into the house. Madina was putting an ice pack on Emerald’s head. Marcus was not sure what had happened to Emerald.

“Let’s go to emergency. You took a hard blow to that stubborn head. You need to have it x-rayed; you may have a concussion or maybe even a fracture. Marcus you stay here and wait for Navette and Peter. I will call them and let them know what happened.”

The officer secured the guy in the car and then returned to fill out his paperwork and to find out just what had happened.

“Excuse me. Mrs. Tolkowsky is it? I need to ask you some questions as to what happened here.”

Bright knew that he needed to know these things and while she was deciding how to handle the situation the paramedics pulled into the driveway.

“Oh, I called them.” The officer confessed.

Bright agreed to let them take care of Emerald’s injuries while she, Madina and Marcus went back into the house with the officer to answer his questions.

Marcus discovered the whole of the story when Mrs. Tolkowsky and Madina completely described what happened to the officer. Marcus’s opinion of Emerald improved slightly when he discovered his somewhat brave actions. It was a delight to met Madina, and somehow he felt a spiritual connection with her. The officer also told them something they didn’t know. Madina’s brother was already wanted for armed robbery and assault. He had robbed and attacked a store clerk the day before. This was hard for Madina to hear, but she knew that he had become a bad person. She was thankful to Mrs. Tolkowsky, Emerald and Marcus for coming to her defense. And she was thankful that, for now, she hadn’t lost her father’s house. After the officer left, Madina asked if it would be ok to have a prayer and she reached out her hand. Marcus grabbed it and he also reached out his hand to Mrs. Tolkowsky. Bright accepted his hand and they formed a circle when she held Madina’s other hand. Madina prayed and a sense of relief came over them. It was a timely prayer.

Untitled Novel - Chapter Eight

Navette began the awkward, but gratifying, explanation of how she and Sammy knew of Marcus’s new position within Sloan Advertising. It was difficult for her to find a place to begin.

“It all began, well not that your bravery had anything to do with it, when Dad came to see you in the hospital. Let me start all over. “DIAMOND WORLD” is partnering with Sloan Advertising. This has been in the works for several months. Dad felt it was so courageous of you to put your life on the line for that innocent girl; well he just wanted to do something for you. He convinced Mom to make part of the contractual agreements between “DIAMOND WORLD” and Sloan Advertising that you become the representative to “DIAMOND WORLD” for Sloan. I suppose Sloan felt our relationship would benefit the outcome of this partnership. Anyway, it means you will be working directly with Mom’s magazine, but still working for Sloan Advertising. Of course Mom negotiated the terms of your salary and everything. But, that’s not all; I am going to be on the team also. I will still be working for Justin Sloan but assigned primarily to the “DIAMOND WORLD” account. I don’t know your job description, precisely.”

Marcus suggested Navette return to the house. He turned around and headed back up the hill, telling her he needed to think and take one more look at the nine letters. Marcus thought this must be a great opportunity for him, but he was a little concerned about the situation in which it came about. He had always envisioned his creative knowledge would get him his executive position and not a favor from a friend, especially a favor that had absolutely nothing to do with his occupational skills. Once Marcus reached the top of the hill, he took another look at the magnificent sign and wondered how actors and actresses would view this situation.

After much back and forth deliberation with himself, he assessed that the actors would probably jump at the opportunity to prove themselves as a worthwhile choice, regardless of how the opportunity came about. But, it was still difficult knowing that his new job would be from a commiserative act by a friend and not from his own efforts. The sign helped him to discover that decisions are just a part of life and his own inhibitions should not be the determining factor for his choices. He should face this as a challenge and prove himself worthy. He remembered a saying from a book he once read: Never enter the arena expecting to lose.

This quiet time to think led Marcus to feel good about his job and his future in advertising, realizing this is the break away from the drudgery of the monotonous calling of his old job. He hurriedly made his way back down the hill, anxious for some of those pancakes that Peter had promised.

“Get down here if you want some of these pancakes,” Peter was calling up to Emerald just as Marcus walked in. “Marcus, you have not had a pancake until you have had my double dipped pecan and cream cheese California cakes. Get in the kitchen before they get cold.” Peter pointed into the kitchen and turned to call to the bedroom one more time. “Emerald, they’re getting cold!”

Marcus walked into the kitchen and Navette and Bright were at the kitchen bar pouring syrup on what looked to be something from the gourmet cooking show. Peter had returned to the kitchen and placed two more of these delicious treats on a plate and placed it in front of Marcus.

“These look too good to eat, but give me some of that syrup.”

Emerald did not come down. You could tell that Peter was a little disappointed that the family could not all be together for this fabulous morning treat. Peter placed two more of these cakes on a plate and took a seat beside Marcus.

“What do you think of these cakes my friend?”

Marcus, with a mouthful, looked over to Peter and murmured something that sounded like: “They’re great.”

“Dad very rarely treats us to these, but we are so happy when he does.”

Navette was so glad to see Marcus in such a good mood: enjoying the breakfast and emotionally in good spirits. After all, she had just revealed a bit of tumultuous news to him.

“Marcus, Navette tells me she revealed our plans with Sloan Advertising. I hope that you are eager to get back to work and make this joint venture work. I feel better about it since I have talked to Navette and I’m sure the team that has been selected at Sloan will do a wonderful job. Navette, have you told him about the team?”

Bright looked to Navette with encouragement to continue the discussion and tell Marcus more about the new team.

But, Peter jumped in. “Let my friend finish these wonderful cakes and then we can talk about business. Bright, do you want to go with me to Dream Island? I want to see if I can find my sunglasses. I think I left them there. It will give you a chance to get in touch with nature.”

“I think you and Navette should go and give Marcus and me a chance to get acquainted and discuss his future. He must have a million questions and so do I.”

Navette wasn’t sure how to respond to this suggestion so she left it up to the others. Before anyone could make an objection, they were interrupted by the clamoring of feet coming down the stairs. Emerald had awoken with an appetite.

“I smell pancakes; I hope you have some left for me. He popped himself on a stool and looked over to Peter. “Well, aren’t you going to cook me a couple of those cakes?”

“Sure son, but it is time you learned this family tradition. Let me show you how to make California cakes.”

Peter took hold of Emerald’s arm and led him over to the griddle to show him the art of making California pancakes, but Emerald was not too interested in learning what he considered a menial task.

Emerald stepped away. “I don’t think this is something I want to do. I’ll just get me a coffee and bagel down at the coffee shop. Mom, want to come along?”

This is more in line of Bright’s daily activity, but she enjoyed the family gatherings also and she relished Peter’s enjoyment of these traditional breakfasts. She disapproved of Emerald’s actions so she quickly berated his suggestion.

“No, I have something to talk to Marcus about.”

Emerald had ignored Marcus and Navette even being in the room. He was not sure himself if he wanted to leave with such a conversation taking place. But, he decided that he would not appear to let this bother him and left with a simple gesture indicating he was off.

Navette decided to go along with her mother’s suggestion that she go with her dad to Dream Island. However, she was curious about what her mom and Marcus would be discussing.

“Dad, I would love to go with you on the condition that we stop by the market and get some healthy food for lunch.”

“That’s a deal. You will be responsible for lunch. Medina will be coming soon and she will clean up. Go put on your sailing clothes, my lovely sailor, and we will bow to the mercy of the wind.”

Navette looked at Marcus to try to decipher his opinion of this arrangement by looking into his eyes. It was obvious that he was undecidedly confused, but not enough to disrupt the plan.

“Don’t worry honey, Marcus and I will be fine. I have something in the office that I want Marcus to see. I want us to get off to a good start so we need to talk business for a while. I want to bring him up to date with “DIAMOND WORLD.” You and Peter have fun and don’t worry about us. We’ll be fine.”

Marcus looked at Navette with a look that revealed conflicting desires. “I am beginning to get enthusiastic about this new position. I think I will let your mom fill me in.”

Navette wasn’t sure this was the best way for Marcus to be introduced to his new position. It would have been more appropriate for Sloan Advertising to break the news especially since she had promised Justin Sloan that she would wait and let him tell Marcus. But, she decided to be loyal to her mom and let her mom have the advantage of revealing her desires first. She could see no harm. She would just tell Marcus to act as if he was hearing it for the first time when Sloan tells him Monday.

Marcus and Mrs. Tolkowsky walked down a hallway to glass double doors leading into a large room. Marcus thought the room looked as if it should have been in a downtown office building. When the door opened and Bright turned on the lights, Marcus could see photographs of diamonds all around the room. One in particular caught his eye. It was the same photo he had seen in the window of Tiffany’s just a few weeks ago. . The photo was of a tall man in his mid-twenties, dressed in ski regalia, on a snow covered mountain, presenting a diamond ring to a girl dressed in a long black formal. The caption of the photo read: Maybe not the perfect place, but it’s the “PERFECT DIAMOND.”

Marcus walked closer to the photo and looked up to it with a sense of curiosity. “Why do you have this photo in your office? I saw this same ad in Tiffany’s window a few weeks ago.”

“Oh, that’s the “PERFECT DIAMOND” ad for Tiffany’s. We ran that ad in our March edition of the magazine. Peter’s company, Tolkowsky Diamonds, is supplying the ideal cut diamonds for this promotion. It is in full presentation now and doing very well.”

“Is there such a thing as a perfect diamond?”

“You need to talk to Peter about that. He will tell you in detail. I can only say that perfect to me is huge and brilliant.”

Bright then brought her hand up to the light for Marcus to see her diamond ring. It was huge and flashes of reflective light made their way across the room.

“Peter sees that the diamonds are as perfect as possible and I make people want them.”

“This is what your magazine is all about huh? Do you have a copy that I can see?”

“Sure, they’re on the table.”

Marcus turned to look and on a glass top table he saw a row of twelve strategically placed magazines, one slightly atop the other. Bold faced letters spelling out DIAMOND WORLD were across the top of each issue. The current issue was in full view on the end of the row. Its cover was illustrated with a striking oversized photo of a diamond. The diamond photo was centered on the cover with the top of the diamond slightly overlaying the “DIAMOND WORLD” heading. The topic titles and subtitles all contrast with the 100% black background. There were rays of light representing the sparkle of the diamond that contained hues of red and blue. The titles and subtitle colors seem to harmonize with these rays. One more look at the combination of the photograph and the content of the cover lines told Marcus that what he saw was art and words, combining to speak to the reader. It was, in Marcus’s opinion, a very striking cover.

“I don’t know what it says inside, but the cover is great.”

“I feel the content inside is as great as the cover. We have a team of writers who keep up with all the latest trends and technology. These writers are some of the most knowledgeable in the industry. We report on all jewelry related events and have special features that interview the movers and shakers in the industry. Our magazine is printed in eight different languages. We sponsor one of the largest international gem and jewelry events in Antwerp, Belgium. There is definitely more inside the cover than photos and fonts.”

“If you have done all of this, why do you need Sloan?”

“It is simply dollars and cents. Our partnership with Sloan will consolidate expenses by using their talent and staff in graphic design and layout. We will continue to supply the news and editorial content.”

This project was almost too much for Marcus to comprehend. It was a much larger challenge than he had anticipated: to move from a research and service call center to such a level of enormous detail and complexity. He was beginning to have doubts as to whether he could do the job.

“Mrs. Tolkowsky, what exactly will be my position? I mean, what do you expect of me? I have not had hands on experience in ad development. I have been in research, if that is what you want to call it. I have been calling purchasers of our customer’s products and doing surveys and the like. I am not sure I can jump in and do what is expected of me.”

After Marcus said this, he almost immediately wanted to retract his statement. After all, this was a great opportunity. And he just told the supplier of his dreams he was not ready. Marcus had all these feelings running thorough his mind. He was very confused. More and more he reflected back to his dreams and decided that he would not let the fear of making a mistake interfere.

“Marcus, I don’t want you to do anything you don’t want to do. You can grow into the position and the position can grow with you. Navette has told us of your abilities, but most of all, you have shown us your heart. If the heart is right, you can gain the experience. My life has been spent cultivating this magazine and I wouldn’t have made this decision if I thought you could not do the job. Anyway, if you are going to be involved with our family, it’s time you learn the businesses that are a part of our lives.”

Marcus was relieved of a great deal of stress with Mrs. Tolkowsky’s words. It changed his perception of his new job: from having to know much, to the opportunity of learning much.

“I didn’t mean to imply that I didn’t want the job. It is just the unknown expectations that seem to be weighting on my mind. I am sure the more I learn about your magazine, the more I will find ways to contribute to its continued success.” Marcus seemed to swell with confidence. He was pleased with the statement he just made.

“I want you to look through those twelve issues and get a feel for what we are doing for the industry and what we are doing for the success of the magazine. It is really important to gain satisfaction from our clients. Both, Sloan Advertising and “DIAMOND WORLD” must work together to give those who purchase advertising in our magazine the results they need. We must unify our products to ultimately serve the same client. I’ll let you know when Peter and Navette return with lunch.”

This gave Marcus a new perspective of a magazine. After all, it was not a magazine that he would pick up at a newsstand. He was not looking for the latest profile on the New York Yankees. He was looking for flow, style, and artistic quality.

Bright walked out of the room and gently closed the door as if she knew Marcus would not want to be disturbed. She knew their conversation had sparked a flame within his passion for life. She left the room confident that Navette and Peter had been right when encouraging her to include Marcus. As she walked back toward the master bedroom, Emerald entered through the front door.

“Did you enjoy your bagel?

“Yes, I did and I ran into an old friend. You remember Todd Robinson, don’t you? He is going to be running the triathlon this afternoon. I think he is crazy. Why would anyone want to put themselves through that torture just to win a stupid trophy? He has lost any brains he ever had. I’m going to run down to the diamond institute to listen to Matt Diamond talk about the new color treatments. Want to come?

“No, I will stay here and enjoy the time with the ones I love, not the ones who despise my opinion of color treated stones. But, you might see Carla; she will be covering that story for the magazine. I know you and she share some common interest.”

“What could we possibly share?”

“You are both workaholics.”

With that said, Bright walked away and Emerald went up the stairs to change into more appropriate clothes for his lecture. Bright started toward to her bedroom to freshen up.