Paddy O' & Curly Slim, Book VI: Sixth of six books, #6

By Richie Patton

Rhonda's easy and enviable pregnancy is suddenly and frighteningly ended.

 

She and Paddy face a heart-stopping problem. Because of a medical condition that erupts, child birth poses potential life-ending consequences for Rhonda and the baby she wants to birth naturally. Troubled, Paddy's faith falters; Rhonda, though disappointed, is awesomely strong …

 

A dicey C-section delivery finds their OB/GYN doctor friend, Nate, having to resuscitate Rhonda. Fearing the loss of his soul mate, Paddy is on the verge of taking over to try and save Rhonda's life just as he had done when they were dating as teens ...

 

Will Rhonda survive the ordeal? The baby? Or ...

 

And, more … much more ...

 

From the BONUS book …

 

Rude welcomes await the Blairs relocation to the USA both at sea and at a dock in New York.

 

Once the building of the Blair mansion begins in Grosse Pointe, MI, Reg's growing Alzheimer problems cause complications and strain.

 

Reg and Valienta, escorted by Bertie and Felicity, take a long desired tour of the American West. On their return, Reg wanders off and is beaten by four thugs.

 

Back in Grosse Pointe, two immigrant women from the Caribbean nation of Trinidad are a godsend to the family.

 

G T, his wife, mother-in-law and their missionary friend make a timely visit from thousands of miles away in exotic Ceylon.

 

And, more … much more ...

 

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Richie Patton
• Release date: Aug 26, 2021
• ISBN: 9798201555375

Richie Patton

Born and raised in inner city Chicago, Il, Richie spent all but three weeks of his high school years in Royal Oak, MI. The father of five beautiful offspring, he and the original Curly Slim, his wife, Betty, now call South Carolina home.

Book preview

May the saddest days of the future be no worse than the happiest days of your past.

– Irish blessing **

"Teach us Delight in simple things. And Mirth that has no bitter springs; Forgiveness free of evil done,

And Love to all men 'neath the sun!"

– Rudyard Kipling (1865 - 1936)

"Humor is the spiciest condiment in the feast of existence. Laugh at your mistakes but learn from them,

joke over your troubles but gather strength from them, make a jest of your difficulties but overcome them."

– Lucy Maud Montgomery (1874 - 1942)

** THE BLESSING IS FROM a number of different sources.

Chapter 1

PADDY HAD STIFFENED, his hand gripping Rhonda's hand hard. She flinched and emitted a little squeal of pain.

O', please ... relax. Doc was about to say something else. He released his grip and leaned in closer. Baby, I'm so sorry.

I know ... I know. Eyes glistening, her hands cupped the sides of his face. Her index finger followed the line of the longest scar on his face from his forehead into his cheek like she was erasing a bad memory. It was an unconscious habit she had developed when both were troubled.

His rough hands tenderly stroked her face. Polska Girl, sorry. I'm ... I'm good now, baby. I won't let you down, I won't. We'll beat this, too, we will. He turned to the doctor. "Sorry 'bout that,

Nate. I've almost lost her twice before and ... Please, what else?"

The doctor cast a compassionate look at Paddy and Rhonda. "Follow what I said, religiously. We'll start with certain medications; then, monitor you closely, with further tests as needed. Now, I know how active you're used to being what with work, weekly workouts and keeping up with this get-up-and-go husband of yours. However, I can't stress this too much, you must change that mindset to be completely sedentary for the time being. Depending on how you do in the next, say, week, we might consider allowing some light activity like limited biking, swimming or walking. That remains to be seen. Certainly no more Gutter Fighting workouts. Remember, if push comes to shove hospitalization could become necessary. However, for now, I know you'll be more comfortable in your own place. It would be helpful to have someone with you at all times. Is that possible?"

I'll call Mom as soon as we get home, Rhonda said, managing a small smile. She can be here in a few hours. I wouldn't be able to keep her away even if I tried.

"Good. In the meantime, I want to hear from you or Paddy if there are anymore symptoms at all. You have my private number. Call anytime day or night. I know both of you from workouts. Do not, I repeat, do not try to tough it out with any of this. Paddy, until your mother-in-law comes, can you take some time away from your practice to get all the necessary doing done for the two of you?"

Paddy managed a quick, small smile. Of course.

Good Here are two prescriptions. Get them filled at the hospital pharmacy and start taking them today. Rhonda, I want to see you in my office next Wednesday, sooner if you feel needed. God bless you and keep you protected, dear friends.

Chapter 2

MOM AND DADDY, HOW did you get away so quickly? Rhonda enthused, hugging Rose and Lech together as they walked into apartment kitchen.

It was early evening the day after Rhonda had called her parents about the IPAH condition and asked if her Mom could help. The Duczinskis had quickly made arrangements to be away, finished work for the day and, after last minute instructions to sons, Joe and Stash, drove directly to East Lansing.

Where is my favorite son-in-law? Lech asked, scratching the sweet spot behind Corker's pendulous ears.

"My very solicitous hubby is upstairs with the Scalises. Mr. Dante wants to install a two-way

intercom between the basement here and his and Mrs. Lucia's kitchen and bedroom. Rose's eyebrows arched and Lech said, Hmm."

Our wonderful landlords have told us they feel that at this time there can't be too much back-up help available to me until the birth. I understand holes will be drilled any time for the wiring.

Honey, do you have any leftovers or could you direct us to the nearest drive-in. We drove over without having dinner.

Oh, my. I can do better than those two. Lucia brought dinner for us tonight. I thought it was probably a pasta dish but it turned out to be Spiedini that takes forever to prepare. Absolutely mouthwatering. You'll love it. She started to rise from her seat at the table.

Rose got up and laid a delaying hand on her daughter's arm. I'll be happy to get everything. You stay put for now. While we eat we'd like to hear the details you got from your friend, Dr. Nate.

Rhonda waited to speak to see her parents reaction to Lucia's stuffed beef Spiedini alla Siciliana. It didn't take them long to comment.

Oh my, Rhonda. This is heavenly! Rose said, her face bright with pleasure. Did you get the recipe?

You can say that again, kochanie (darling), Lech added.

Paddy and I can't get our fill of it which makes Lucia very happy. She'll be pleased to hear your reaction, too. I have the recipe but haven't attempted it, yet, because of the lengthy preparation time involved. One of these days, I suppose.

At the end of Rhonda's composed, matter-of-fact summary of the doctor's diagnosis, concerns and admonitions – she easily reverted to the mode of nurse relating case symptoms to a doctor—Lech and Rose were clasping hands with their daughter atop the kitchen table when Paddy walked in.

After quick hugs with his in-laws and buzzing Rhonda's lips, he sat down, smiling. Lech and Mama Rose, so good to see you here. I cleaned your bedroom real good and Corker will take to his bed in the garage. How long can you stay?

Rose and Lech exchanged glances and a silent signal between one another. Lech has to go back tomorrow morning but I can stay as long as you'll have me.

Yeah, I wish I could stay awhile, too. The shop has a big order from Chrysler and we're on three shifts a day, seven days a week, burning it up along with overtime, Lech said regretfully. But, I'll be back as soon as I can.

Patting his hand, Rhonda smiled and said, "I'm sorry, Daddy. Would be nice to have both of you

with us during this time. She turned to her mother with an inquisitive look, Mom, how did you get Fr. Coughlin to give you all the time off?"

Well, if the truth be told I explained the situation to Charlie and said that if I didn't have his complete cooperation I would have to dredge up those skeletons in his closet and make them known to the entire parish.

Mom! Rhonda squealed. You didn't.

No, silly, I really didn't. Even if I did know some secrets about the dear man I could never reveal them. I simply told him about you and he instantly said, 'Rose, get to your daughter without any further delay. As soon as I can get the word out, the parish will be praying for our Rhonda.'

Many thanks to him for that. She paused and suddenly snickered. "I just can't get over anyone calling our renowned Pastor Father Charles Coughlin by the nickname Charlie. It seems too, I don't know, disrespectful or maybe informal. Some of the boys in the high school graduating class did call him that behind his back but I couldn't. I guess as adults and working closely with him you do have a different relationship. She paused and turned. Funny Buddy, I thought wiring for the intercom would be coming through the ceiling by now."

We did, too. Dante broke the drill bit he needs. I offered to fetch the replacement but he looked at me, grabbed me by the upper arms – amazing how strong the old guy is – and told me, 'Dottore, si deve stare vicino alla tue adorabile moglie (Doctor, you must stay close to your lovely wife).' He said he'd get most of the prep work done tomorrow during the day and I can help finish down here in the evening.

Mom and Daddy, could I suggest that while you're both here when we hear Dante return you stop upstairs and tell Lucia how much you enjoyed her cooking. And, don't forget to mention the dessert she also made for us, yummy Tiramisu. We'll have some, later.

THE NEXT CHILLY MORNING, in that earliest stage of dawn called astronomical twilight, while Rose and Rhonda still slept, Lech and Paddy, in companionable silence, finished the light breakfast Paddy had quietly prepared for them. The only sounds in the kitchen were the nibbles and scrapes, crunches and snorty breathing of Corker as he worried the knuckle bone in noisy contentment that Paddy had given the him after a generous breakfast.

Best be on my way, son, Lech said softly as he bent to stroke Corker's head.

I have to go, too. Early day on one of the farms, Paddy said as he shrugged into his old field

jacket.

Outside, Lech stopped beneath the yellow glow of the night security light that illumined the frosted exterior of his car on the side pad of the Scalises' drive-way. He looked at the young man he loved like a son. I didn't want to say anything inside for fear of waking our gals. To hear our daughter explain her situation in that clinical tone she uses you would almost think she's either describing someone else or her own situation is not so bad.

Paddy jerked the olive drab jacket's collar up closer to his neck. "Dad, I wish I could say either one or both were true for my stoical wife ... for us. But, unfortunately, I can't and be telling the god-awful truth of the matter. Dr. Nate gave it to us straight from the shoulder like he should have and like we did and did not want it. I don't want to scare you or Mama Rose but the fact is that her condition is, doggone it, life-threatening but should be controlled with proper nutrition and medication, life-style and rest. That's the good part of a bad situation. He paused, both hands briefly scrubbing over his face; then, with a forlorn cast to his eyes, regarded his father-in-law and exhaled noisily. Giving birth will be – " He swallowed back the words he was about to say.

Lech reached out and grabbed Paddy by the upper arms with his large strong hands. 'Giving birth will be' what? I want it straight, son.

They hope to reduce the strain of a normal vaginal birth by either inducing labor or doing a caesarean section. Rhonda's been so looking forward to a natural birth but Nate explained how dangerous that could be, especially if her condition worsens any. Dad, we've almost lost her twice since she was seventeen. I just ... I just can't accept the possibly of losing her now. The last eight years with her have been the best years of my life. She's been the pulse of my heart, she has. I've been begging, arguing and negotiating with God a lot, lately. Like an Abraham mediating for Sodom and Gomorrah. I ... the two of us need to talk to Father Haney or Father Rogers, we do. And, I know I have to make a doggone proper confession to be on good terms with God, again. Aw, crap, there I go. Sorry. You have to be on your way, you do. Come back to us as soon as you can.

They hugged – a fierce embrace of love and commiseration.

As Lech opened the car door, he turned and regarded Paddy who was slouching to his car. Paddy, you once told me about you shooting at spooks. Don't allow yourself to do that now, son. Instead spend your time praying and asking for a miracle for our girl and your baby. I'll talk to the Fathers and see how they might arrange a get together with you and Rhonda. The next time I come I'll be a Pole bearing gifts. That venison sausage you and Rhonda like so much.

Hands deep in his fatigue pants pockets, Paddy turned around, snorted and said, Thanks, Dad. I have been praying real hard but hate to admit that the reminder comes at a good time. Anything you can do will be much appreciated. Be careful on the way home. Especially watch out for those slow-moving farm implements on the highways along the way. You can be on top of them before you know it, you can. Give Kiara, Joe and Stash a big hug for us. And, don't forget the sausage.

WHAT'S THAT COOKIN', ci dwa piekne Polki (you two beautiful Polish women)? Paddy said, walking into the kitchen after work.

Smiling broadly, Rhonda strode up to her husband and gave him a big kiss. Mom, would you listen to my Irish Boyo. He's taken my Polish language lessons to heart and sounds more and more like one of us every day, he does. Always knew he was a Polski wannabe.

Paddy laughed and softly patted her slightly mounded belly. Yeah, figured it was time I added the Slavic tongue to my two Romance languages so I can keep up with the other half of this family and know what Babcia is saying about me when she and Rhonda get their heads together. At the stove, he kissed Rose on the cheek and regarded the small chunks of meat already browned in the skillet simmering on a top burner. Hey, is that the venison sausage Lech said he'd bring? Or, some more from Dante?

Rose spoke up. Special from Lech himself. He came this afternoon. Has been working every day since he brought me three weeks ago plus considerable overtime. Being one of the senior guys at the shop they thought it was time he had some R & R. They gave him three days off. Took His Hugeness over to the campus for a walk before dinner.

Rhonda stepped over, put her arm around Paddy's waist and snuggled close. Another good surprise, Papa Paddy.

Oh? The baby came, is awaiting her father in the bassinet next to our bed, you're fine and dandy and all's right with the world. He kissed her tenderly on the forehead.

If only it was all that simple. No, Father Haney will be with us for dinner, too. According to Daddy, Father Rogers would have liked to be with us, but his mother is visiting an uncle in Livonia and having some medical problems.

Sorry to hear about Father's mother. Hopefully the problems aren't too serious and will be remedied, soon. Would have loved to have them both with us awhile. But sure glad to know our buddy Fr. Haney's going to be here. Paddy made a face. Uhm, where are we going to put up everybody?

No problem. Father has a friend from seminary days in Ireland, a Father Cairbre O'Donohue who's the Parochial Vicar at St. Mary Cathedral in Lansing. He'll be overnighting there until he returns to the Shrine Sunday night. In the meantime, you, Doc, better clean up before we eat. I wouldn't have to call Soo-Ee, Soo-Ee, just open the door and your porker friends from the farm yard would barge in to embrace your smelly self, Irish Boyo.

"Not 'Care-bray' my sweet little linguist, Kar-bruh." He pulled the bottom of her top up revealing her slightly rounded belly and kissed her just above the navel. Hey, little darlin' and big darlin.' I missed my two favorite gals, today. He hesitated; then, went on with mock seriousness. I thought about more names while slopping with the swine or was it hobnobbing with the hogs? Maybe both through the day. How 'bout Vandalia Tyronza O'Shaughnessy?

Stifling a laugh, Rhonda glanced at her mother.

Wide-eyed with shock, Rose regarded her daughter; then, turned to Paddy. Where in the world did you get those names? You're not—

Deadpan, Paddy interjected, One's a town in Illinois; the other a wee village in Arkansas where my man 'Redbone' comes from. Think of the possible nicknames you get from those two very unique girl names – Van, Vanda, Dalia, Ty, Ronza and Onza. Bet there wouldn't be another kid in her school or church with any moniker as beautiful as our little honey's. Shaking his head in the affirmative, Paddy marched into the bedroom and closed the door.

Suddenly from the bedroom came a sound – a piercing wolflike howl! followed by laughter and the sound of the shower.

Rose's head jerk around and she blurted, My word, what was that?

Stirring a pot of tomato sauce, Rhonda explained nonchalantly. "Nothing to be troubled about, Mom. Just your favorite son-in-law's kookie way of, as he says, 'letting it all hang out.' Actually, a good sign. Lately, what with being busy with the practice growing by leaps and bounds – he and Jerry have had to hire an assistant for the clinic and a kennel girl – and his concerns for me and the baby, he's been too quiet, too much into himself. When he goes too deep inside it can trigger the blues and worse. That we don't need right now. So, I'm very thankful for a howl now and again. She paused, tasted the sauce cooking, added a dash of two spices and snickered. If you think that's something, you should hear him yelp and howl when the Big Guy's around. It gets Corker so aroused that he answers in kind. The two of them go back and forth, carrying on like two wolves from competing packs. In fact, the first time they performed, so to speak, the Scalises were so concerned they came to the back door armed."

Armed? Rose put in with a nervous chuckle.

Oh, yeah. That was almost five years ago now. When I opened the door there was Dante with his shotgun ready to fire and Lucia, not to be outdone, by his side with raised rolling pin ready to bash someone. Well, for awhile after that Paddy and Corker confined their serenading to the outside away from the house.

Chapter 3

FATHER, 'TIS GOOD TO hear you scored, Paddy said teasingly. As soon as he used the slang term for succeeding, he felt a twinge of guilt. He always knew he could kid with their priest friend; yet there were those times when not only others would interpret his words as crude but he himself would feel misgivings from the deeply ingrained sense of compunction he had been conditioned to bear.

Rose's mouth flew open.

Padraigh Aloysius, what a thing to say to a priest, especially our favorite, Father Brogan who looks after us so well at the Shrine, Rhonda jumped in, an edge to her voice.

After dinner, Rhonda and Paddy with Rose, Lech and Father Haney were sitting at the kitchen table in the O'Shaughnessy apartment over Rose's Polish Chrusciki (Angel wings or crullers) and

coffee. Through dinner the congenial companions had each shared updates about their lives with considerable interest shown in details of Rhonda's pregnancy and Paddy and Jerry's joint Veterinary practice. Then, tired of being the center of so much attention, the young couple had turned to their bonhomous clergy friend and confidante who'd been thoughtfully quiet during the lighthearted exchanges.

Father, no disrespect— Paddy said, a hand on the priest's forearm.

None taken, Doctor Paddy, the priest interjected in his lyrical Irish brogue. Rose and Rhonda, I understand your surprise but to be entirely honest Paddy is accurate, he is. As you know, I had tried to encourage Rhonda to seriously consider becoming a member of a religious order as a Nun. He chuckled lightly. "And, as I'm sure Rhonda will tell you, with some vigor. I wasn't successful and I must say now, I must, from what I've seen and heard of her happy life the last five years, she made an excellent choice. For that happy marriage vocation and soon-to-be motherhood I couldn't be more pleased for her and Paddy. Meanwhile, I didn't abandon my efforts to help the young form their futures and in doing so consider as part of their many choices a religious vocation. So, it was that after counseling, encouraging and directing a number of sources, a graduate of the Shrine class of 1960, the youngest daughter of a devout couple, Bernadette Sosobee, will become a novitiate with the IHM sisters in Monroe early next year. So, yes, in a manner of speaking, I did 'score.' He laughed heartily. But, to be fair and self-effacing as my vows intended, I'm sad to say the Lord still has a lot to do to improve my vocational efforts. I still don't have a winning record. Recently, I was confident I had a winner, if you will, in a graduate of the class of 1961. Norma Langevin is the daughter of a strongly Catholic family blessed with nine offspring – three sons who are ordained priests, one Nun who took her final vows several years ago and another daughter who's a novitiate with the Sisters of Charity. Then, too, each parent has religious in their own family. So, as you might imagine, with all my personal efforts and her family background I was confident Norma would be a shoe-in for the nunnery and the Sisters of Mercy with whom she had spent considerable time and admired. In fact so sure was I that if I was a betting man I would have bet my father's farm in County Dublin. However, lo and behold, two Sundays ago after a stirring homily about vocations, my hopes for her were dashed, they were.

My goodness, what happened, Father? Rose asked. She and Lech were as close to the gracious cleric as Paddy and Rhonda.

"Well, it was following Mass, as I was in the narthex chatting with the last of our departing

parishioners, when Norma came up and asked if she could speak to me in private. With her was a handsome young man I had not met before. At that point I was still viewing her as the next Nun from the Shrine. In my office, she introduced me to a Billy Pace from Dondero High School, said they were on the verge of becoming engaged and would like my blessing. Well, I was instantly shocked, I was. Based on the surprised looks on their faces I must have revealed my astonishment at the news. Then, I did an about face, you might say, gathered my wits, smiled and gave both a hearty blessing for future happiness together. After they departed, I couldn't help but feel a stab or two of disappointment. As I've had occasion to do over the years I went to our Rose Garden, had a long talk with the Lord and asked that He show me a better way. Hmm, I wonder if this has anything to do with the public high school in town. Paddy, you were from Dondero, were you not?"

Paddy chuckled good-naturedly. That I was, Padre. Y'know us public school boys. By the way, was this Billy Pace a sandy-haired, baby-faced fellow with a cleft chin?

That he is.

Sounds like the younger brother of a Judy Pace who was a year behind me at Dondero. Had a long distant crush on her BR, Before Rhonda, during the time I was painfully shy. Remember following her home one time – lived on one of those short streets between Crooks Road and Main Street south of 12 Mile Road. When she went into the house, I spoke to young Billy. He was a neat kid. In fact, at the time he asked me if he could put in a good word for me with his sister. I felt so dumb I said no, please don't bother her.

Everyone laughed, especially Paddy.

Lech checked his wristwatch and said, Excuse me and Rose. We have time to make a showing of a movie we've been wanting to see since it came out last year, A Place In The Sun." I noticed it on the way in at the Lucon on Grand River.

Yes, with that good-looking Montgomery Cliff, Liz Taylor and Shelley Winters, Rose put in, getting up from her chair. Should be a good one.

Lech laughed. I would have preferred to snuggle with my honey at the drive-in but it'll be cold at the Starlite tonight. Anyway they're playing something I don't think either one of us would like, something called Bluebeard's Ten Honeymoons."

Everyone chuckled.

At the door, the Duczinskis turned and Rose said merrily, Now, children, don't stay up for us. We have the spare door key. You three have a good time. Good night.

Uh, excuse me, Paddy said. If I happen to be up later and find you making out on the glider don't be surprised if you get the infamous wall light flashing insistently at the two of you.

Lech and Rose exchanged knowing looks, turned to Paddy, laughed and went out the door. Father Haney tossed an inquisitive glance at Paddy and Rhonda. "Would I be too personal

asking what that was about?"

Rhonda snickered. No, not at all Father. Paddy was referring to what Mom and Dad would do to us when we were dating and lingered on the front porch, uhm, saying good night and I was suppose to be in.

Actually, as Papa Joey would say, smutching, good night too long, don't y'know, Paddy corrected lightly with a gleam in his eye. She just couldn't stand to let me go, she couldn't.

Rhonda gave Paddy a mischievous sidelong glance; then, immediately turned to their guest with a neutral expression. Father, a warm up of your coffee?

For several long moments, the three sat in companionable silence.

Father, we're very happy you're with us at this time. That goes without saying no matter what's happening in our lives, good or bad, happy or sad, Paddy said, anxious to get on with his concerns. He chuckled nervously. God only knows how deeply grateful we are for all the times you've supported and guided us. And, all the times in between we could count on you simply as a good friend. Paddy hesitated, snorting softly in that particular way he had before segueing from the serious to the lighthearted. And to think we have remained close even after Rhonda and I upset your applecart, so to speak, when she opted for a marriage vocation instead of a religious one.

Father whooped. The rich, hearty tenor laugh that was a natural expression of his amusement. Paddy, Rhonda, helping you as your priest and being your friend in Christ has always been much more than my clerical responsibility. It's been a true pleasure for me, it always has. I believe the three of us have grown together in our faith while enjoying one another's company, too. I don't know if I ever told you that our close relationship is so reminiscent of one I had with two beautiful people like you when I was in secondary school through seminary days. They were a loving couple – no I didn't try to recruit her for the nunnery – by the names of Aideen (Ai-d-ee-n) O'Houlihan and Garvan Murtha. The two of you remind me in many ways of them and our good times are much like those Aideen, Garvan and I had together. Smiling, Father Haney paused and gazed at the two as they smiled and nodded their heads affirmatively. Paddy, do I detect that you're burdened by something?

The young man flicked his tongue over his lips. "I guess it's showing all over me, it is. Must

come from what's been on my mind ever since we spoke to Dr. Nate— My OB/GYN doctor, Father," Rhonda hastened to insert.

—and he gave us the, uhm, news.

I'm sure you know that Lech and Rose have expressed their concerns to me about your condition, Rhonda. Would you fill me in with the details the doctor gave you.

The couple alternated back and forth, sharing their shock of learning about the sudden onset of Rhonda's Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (IPAH) and the details from their friend, Dr. Nate. Then, they turned to the concerns each had for Rhonda's and the baby's well-being at the birthing.

The good priest was not surprised by the details he heard. They were more familiar then he liked. Several years earlier he had researched IPAH condition extensively to counsel another couple about the same situation. The two had tried unsuccessfully for years to have a baby. When an unexpected pregnancy was confirmed their joy was boundless. Then, on the very peak of their rapturous joy, the traumatic shock of learning the wife was a victim of IPAH. Fr. Haney knew he would have to steer clear of any mention of the couple for fear that in their natural inquisitiveness either Paddy or Rhonda or both would question what happened to the wife and baby. It pained him to think he would be a party to telling his troubled friends the mother and baby, after extensive pre-natal care and monitoring during the birthing process, were both lost. He said a silent prayer to have the necessary strength to do what was best for his friends.

Rhonda, as she was in her nurse's position, was cooly and professionally clinical in her narrative and mien. Paddy on the other hand, with Rhonda holding his hand, was restrained with effort. Knowing both as well as he did, Father Haney wasn't surprise by Rhonda's stoicism. He knew how deeply she cared yet was quite unique for a woman of her age by the seemingly natural way she kept a tight rein on the display of her emotions. Paddy, though, with his manic-depressive traits was prone to mood swings that were difficult for him and could be for Rhonda, especially under her present circumstances. As much as Paddy was striving to control himself, he was obviously on tenterhooks. The priest was anxious to do everything possible to maintain his friends' tranquility.

Chapter 4

RHONDA, WHAT IS THE latest you've been told by your doctor? Father Haney said in his lilting and comforting accent.

Rhonda grinned, eyes sparkling. Just two days ago I had my latest monitoring. Tests show the baby is strong and my, uhm, condition has remained steady. I have Paddy plus Mom and Daddy to thank for all that. Doctor Nate suggested that we have the birth mid to late next week.

Tension eased in Paddy's face and he managed a weak smile.

I understand inducing labor or a Caesarian Section would be best for you.

Yes, that's what I've been told, Rhonda replied, disappointment evident in her voice. Father's thick dark brows arched and he tossed a questioning glance at both friends.

Paddy spoke up. Our Mama Rhonda had her heart set on a natural vaginal birth. But while she's disappointed she'll do whatever is necessary for her welfare and that of our little darling.

Rhonda quickly added, If induced labor is the next best way and I can tolerate that, so be it. Father chuckled. "So Paddy knows the child will be a leanbh cailin (Irish for girl baby

pronounced lan-uv k aw leen), he does?"

Paddy snorted like when he was his normal kookie self. Indubitably. A colleen every bit as beautiful and smart as her mother with the best of Gaelic charm and whimsy of her proud, doting father, don't y'know. He suddenly broke into hysterical laughter; then, as quickly as it had begun stopped as he noted the alarmed expressions on Rhonda's and Father's faces.

Rhonda calmly moved over to her husband, put her arms around him and held him close for several long moments. She knew it was his mercurial way of letting out anxiety and he would be better for it. Drawing back slightly from him, she compassionately searched his eyes; then, smoothed the tips of the fingers of her right hand over the three parallel creases bisecting the scars on his broad forehead.

Papa Paddy, our baby's beautiful father, everything is going to be just fine. I'm confident from my talks with the Lord, all will be – as you like to say – 'jake' for the baby, me and you. Please place your total trust in Him, too. Now, I'm a bit tired so a few Z's sounds real good to me. Fellas, you enjoy the evening. Father, I promise that tomorrow will be lighter and more fun for all of us. She kissed Paddy and gave their priest friend a brief hug before walking off.

Paddy silently gazed at his wife as she departed and closed the bedroom door. He murmured absently, God, you know better than anyone she's everything I ever wanted and more.

What was that, Paddy? Father asked.

Oh, just a little comment to our God. Okay with you if we go to the backyard? I don't want us to disturb, Curly Slim. Or, her to disturb us with her snoring. Since she became PG she can seriously saw some wood.

Sure.

Excuse me a moment while I check on her. A few seconds later Paddy returned, beaming. She's purring like a kitten. Into the sleep of the just, she is. Now, if only Himself could do the same.

In the rear of the large yard beneath the huge Oak tree, they were met by Corker who came out of the open bottom of the Dutch door at the back of the garage. The Big Guy acknowledged his partner, Paddy; then, wagging his long plume of a tail, went straight to the priest for some of what Paddy called, OPA – Other Peoples' Attention.

Two Ton likes you, Father.

"Comes as no surprise to me. Considering he also has the land of Erin about him, being half Irish Setter and probably getting a whiff of my old times with the Irish Wolfhounds of the family." He gave Corker a good scratch behind his pendulous ears.

He's a greedy one, y'know. Knows no end to getting scratched that way. But, he's had enough now, he has. Cahr-kair! Paddy said in a commanding voice, off to bed with you."

The big head bumped the priest's hand in a sign for more of the attention he liked but immediately responded to a silent command that brought him to Paddy's side. The two eyed one another. "Cahr-kair, the older you get the more of a mooch you are. You've forgotten where your bed is, have you?"

The bull Mastetter hesitated, bumped against Paddy's leg like he wasn't about to leave without trying one last time for his partner's scratch or two; then, realizing he was out of luck, moped off to his kennel in the garage.

Now, that's a good lad.

The priest tittered and said, You two certainly have a unique relationship. You both seem to know what the other wants.

Well, as much as I'd like to think that – and there are times I'd swear he has acted by his own volition to things I said – what you probably didn't notice are the silent hand signals he responds to. Anyway, Father ever since we got the word of Rhonda's condition my feelings toward God have not been the best. Unlike my lovely wife I've been fighting Him. I need to go to Confession to get some things off my chest. I know this isn't a typical venue for us but could you hear my confession now?

Certainly, my friend. The priest extracted a folded purple stole (a type of scarf used as a symbol of authority by ordained clergy of the Church) from his outside jacket pocket and placed it around his neck.

Paddy smiled. Ah, like a good scout, 'Be Prepared.'

Father, possessed of a goodly share of Gaelic charm and wit, chuckled. You never know when the occasion might arise when you find yourself under an immense tree in a stranger's backyard in the dark of night and asked to hear a good friend's confession.

Yellow electric light filtered through the now leafless tree branches from the wire-guarded security light on the nearby tall steel pole.

Paddy tried to restrain himself but a clipped laugh escaped his lips. "Sorry, Father. Your dry, off

the wall sense of humor made me laugh. But now, if you will, please give me some time to re-focus my thoughts to the confessional mode and seriously examine my conscience for a proper confession."

Of course. Take whatever time you need.

Some five minutes later, Paddy raised his bowed head and sidled closer to the tree's massive trunk. Seems so odd being outside the narrow confines of the Confessional and without the mesh screen between us.

If you'd be more comfortable in Church we could do that tomorrow at the cathedral. Paddy looked around and expelled a long breath. Naw, best I do it now. Are you ready?

Sure. I could make a sound like I was sliding open the window between us, if that would help, Father Haney said sincerely.

Aw, Father, don't get me started. I'm trying to be serious now, y'know.

Sorry, Paddy, I am. Just wanted to keep everything so you'd be more comfortable.

Paddy smiled and nodded appreciation to his friend. I'm good. He took a deep breath and began in the same contrite whispery tone he customarily used within the confines of the confessional—typically an enclosed wooden structure in the Church sanctuary, consisting of a center compartment where the priest confessor sits flanked by two doored or curtained stalls where penitents kneel and speak to the priest through a latticed opening.

Bless me father for I have sinned. It has been two weeks since my last confession. I have ... The Roman Catholic Church teaches that "man even though regenerated and justified, is still

liable to fall into sin, on account of the depravity of his fallen nature and also on account of the many temptations that surround him: therefore our loving Lord, in His infinite mercy, instituted another sacrament for the forgiveness of sins committed after baptism" – the Sacrament of Penance.

One of seven sacraments of the Church, the Sacrament of Penance (later Reconciliation) comes from the Word of Jesus Christ in four books of the New Testament in Holy Scriptures. In the Church's interpretation it is manifested in the absolution of the priest, joined with contrition, confession and satisfaction of the penitent, the sins of the penitent are forgiven by God, through the application of the merits of Jesus Christ, and a grace is given him to help him avoid sin in future."

Following recitation by the penitent of his sins, the priest would give penance (for example, say five Our Fathers, three Hail Marys and a good Act of Contrition). With Paddy, who Father Haney had mentored for some years, it was customary for the priest to also offer more than a few words of guidance at the end of the rite if there were no other penitents waiting, or later in his office or while

ambling through his favorite area of the church grounds, the Rose Garden. This particular night, in the unfamiliar environment of the Scalises' back yard, Father invited Paddy to say a good Act of Contrition; then, concluded the rite with the essential words of absolution: I absolve you from your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Father: Give thanks to the Lord for He is good. Paddy: His mercy endures forever.

Father: "Go in peace.

Father had often used the longer formula of: May the passion of our Lord Jesus Christ, the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and of all the saints, whatever good you have and suffering you endure, heal your sins, help you to grow in holiness, and reward you with eternal life. However, this night he knew Paddy had a need to talk out what was bothering him as he confided in confession.

Father, our usual?

Of course. He clapped an affectionate hand on Paddy's shoulder. Could our talks be any other way.

They strolled slowly beside one another about the perimeter of the spacious backyard – the priest's hands clasped upon his slightly paunchy belly; Paddy, continuing in his penitential posture, head slightly bowed and hands occasionally rubbing his forehead.

Father, I'll cut to the chase, he said in a hushed tone for fear of bothering the Scalises or the the neighbors. When we were told of Rhonda's condition I couldn't believe that someone as strong and athletic as her could be afflicted like that. As feminine as my wife is she's as physically strong as many male jocks, she is. And, mentally, too. In that category probably more so. Rhonda was taking it all so calmly like you saw tonight. At first, I was gobsmacked, I was. Then, once I had some time to deal with it rationally and accept the reality of it all, like so many other things that happen suddenly or without a known cause to humans and animals, I seemed to settle down. But, then, it wasn't long before I found myself getting P. O.'d, excuse me, riled at God. Suddenly he stopped, reacting to the compunction that had welled up inside him from partial use of the abbreviation for pissed off in conjunction with speaking about God.

Paddy, the Lord and I know that what you started to say came from a touch of irrationality colored by your temporary emotional state. He and I have heard worse, much worse. We understand, especially when we know you were sincerely regretful. Please, go on.

Thank you, Father. He expelled a long breath. "You always know how to help me through

difficulties. Part of me said feeling that way toward God was dead wrong and I better apologize and get back to showing Him the reverence He deserves. I did that and tried hard to cast care and be confident that He would take care and I would accept His blessed will and everything would be jake for Rhonda, the baby and me. But, in short order, I found myself overcome with anger. Try as I may I couldn't seem to bring myself out of it. Paddy's voice was rising, breaking up some, becoming shrill. Father grabbed his arm firmly, hoping the slight physical intervention would settle him. Though lowering his voice, the young man could not completely rein in his rising emotion that seemed to carry him away. Jaysus, Mary and Joseph, I had already come close to losing her not once but twice. The beautiful girl who God, Himself, brought into my life to show me what love really is. The girl who accepted me like no one before, including my own parents. The girl who puts up with all my nutty ways, laughs at my jokes, makes me feel – besides her great dad – like the most important guy in the world. My soul mate who I not only want but more so need. A third time ... no. Holy sch-moly! We've already had two reprieves. How many do we get before they run out, Father? Do humans have nine lives like they say about cats? I haven't told her this because I don't want to possibly upset her and be responsible for her condition worsening but I am so scared. Like never before. Not even like when Corker was shot up and I thought I might lose him, my best friend at the time. Not even when I was attacked by the three clods or had to fight the bikers for Rhonda when we were in Ireland. Actually, scared or frightened doesn't really describe how I feel inside. More like ... like terrified. It's like, uhm, like all the old fears of losing her the previous hours, days and weeks of those two times have lumped together and are now coming down on me like gangbusters. There's a good possibility everything, excuse me, will go to hell in a hand basket – all the plans made, the herd of critters we expect to have, the many years together until we're finally called home to the Lord. He paused, partly from exhaustion, partly out of guilt from hearing his own misguided thoughts and whining, traits that, priding himself on being a pragmatist, he despised in others as much as he did in himself. Recollection of Papa Joey's traumatic loss of his girlfriend, later wife, Carmela suddenly crowded his thoughts. He shook it off and went on. Aw, Father I know it's wrong to be selfish but I still kept pleading, requesting, even demanding He come through for us. He snorted. The terrible way I was acting toward Him made me feel worse, especially when Curly Slim was so calm, accepting and urging me to accept His will.

Father Haney hugged Paddy tightly, feeling how tense his friend was, praying that his tension would ease. When they parted and continued ambling along, the priest in the best soothing lilt of his Irish brogue said, Some observations, if I may.

Scrubbing his face with the palms of both hands, Paddy replied, Of course. Please.

Chapter 5

"FIRST OFF, I DON'T have to remind you, Paddy, our God is infinitely understanding, He is. He feels what you are facing, how you are hurting just as He felt human pain when scourged followed by His excruciating suffering on the cross. Paddy, he knows the needs of all His creatures better than we ourselves know them, he does. And, when we conform to His Blessed will He will give us what is necessary – the strength, confidence and courage—to satisfy those needs, to cope with whatever comes our way. One of the great mysteries of our faith is why some of us have been destined to have many years in this life while others are taken home by Him after a relatively short period of time. Who knows as we speak what He has in mind for me, for you, for Rhonda, anyone ... Like me you've read about the lives of those people recognized by the Church through canonization as saints. And, we both know of

other people who though not formally recognized as saints certainly have lived saint-like lives. Saints have been taken home by the Lord at all ages, including some in childhood. One who immediately comes to mind is the brave child Saint Maria Goretti, who died at age eleven and was canonized just eleven years ago. Our own patron saint at the Shrine, St. Therese of Lisieux, the 'Little Flower,' was only age 24 when she was taken to heaven. I don't have to remind you that they and the others may well have entertained thoughts about what they, too, might do with their lives in the future. None of us no matter what plans we might make have any guarantee we'll see those plans come to fruition. But, then, consider the alternative—the absolute bliss of spending an eternity in heaven with the Lord."

At this point in their traversing the yard, the pair had sauntered back below the enormous dark web of the naked branches of the massive Oak tree. Father stopped and turned Paddy toward him. "I have never minced words with you, my good friend. Honesty has always been a hallmark of our relationship, from me to you and you to me, just as it should be at all times. In that vein, I want you to listen carefully. You mention about being selfish, a natural human trait but antithetical to God's will. Thinking only about your own gratification you are separating yourself from God and His will. I believe you know what you have to do when you mentioned casting care and allowing the Lord to take care in His way. You see and admire the way Rhonda has calmly put the situation in the capable hands of the Lord. You know that fighting the situation, so to speak, as you've been doing is not going to resolve what you both must face together. As we've talked I haven't heard you say anything about how there can very