Kaos: The Prospect of Hope

By Sarah Elizabeth Draper

I was born in Syracuse, NY and I was raised in Cape Vincent, a small town in Upstate New York. The town was close to the Canadian border and it was also close to the Thousand Islands; where Boldt castle was built on Heart Island. I graduated from Thousand Islands High school in Clayton, NY. During my Junior and Senior years, I was able to attend Jefferson Technical Vocational School in Watertown, NY; Where I took courses for Graphic Designing. When I was a young girl, I had a passion for writing and a very vivid imagination. By the time I was a teenager; I began to put that imagination into action and thats when my stories began. Ive since moved to Beulah, AL and settled down to raise my 6 year old son, Zackary, as a single mom and three cats...2 Siamese, named Rozzie and Tasha and a Black and white (tuxedo) named Rooney and we are loving every moment of it. My current job is working as a Receptionist at a Veterinary Hospital.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jun 25, 2012
• ISBN: 9781477108741

Sarah Elizabeth Draper

I was born in Syracuse, NY and I was raised in Cape Vincent, a small town in Upstate New York. The town was dose to the Canadian border and it was also dose to the Thousand Islands; where Boldt castle was built on Heart Island. I graduated from Thousand Islands High school in Clayton, NY. During my Junior and Senior years, I was able to attend Jefferson Technical Vocational School in Watertown, NY; Where I took courses for Graphic Designing. When I was a young girl, I had a passion for writing and a very vivid imagination. By the time I was a teenager; I began to put that imagination into action and that's when my stories began. I've since moved to Beulah, AL and settled down to raise my 6 year old son, Zackary, as a single mom and three cats...2 Siamese, named Rozzie and Tasha and a Black and white (tuxedo) named Rooney and we are loving every moment of it. My current job is working as a Receptionist at a Veterinary Hospital.

Book preview

February 4, 2001

MOM LOOK OUT!! there was no time to get control of the car. The tires screamed on the pavement, from their attack from the breaks. The bridge was narrow and too icy. It was night and the snow was falling hard and freezing before it even hit the ground. Abigail didn’t see the pick-up truck that was trying to cross the bridge. The car spun around and around until finally, the car hit the truck sideways. The sound of shattering glass, tires squealing and her daughter screaming was all Abigail could hear, before the deathly silence, settled all around her. She raised her head from the steering wheel, touching her forehead, feeling the blood. She looked at the blood on her fingertips, and then quickly looked over at the passenger’s seat. Abigail reached for her daughter.

RAYN! Talk to me!! Oh God please! Not my baby!! She’s too young!! at that moment Abigail knew her little girl had died. She threw her body over her daughter’s body, pulling Rayn as close to her as she could get her but, she couldn’t cry. The driver of the truck came up to the car and opened the driver’s side door.

Miss, are you alright? the man reached in and pulled Abigail to him. Abigail was still holding her daughter’s body. She had a blank look on her face. She began to rock her daughter in her arms.

I’ve killed my baby. Oh my baby girl, Mama is so sorry! I’m Sorry!! Abigail began screaming. The man himself began to cry, he took Abigail in his arms, once again to comfort her.

Miss you didn’t kill your baby. It was an accident. The roads were too icy and it’s snowing so hard, you can hardly see the road. You did what you could. Abigail looked at the man in horror.

LOOK AT ME! I’M NOT EVEN HURT!! MY BABY GIRL IS DEAD! I KILLED HER!! Abigail leaned against the man, with her daughter still in her arms and cried, repeating . . . I killed my baby girl . . . until the Ambulance arrived.

~ONE~

It was like any other night for Vincent Stone. At around nine o’clock p.m. he would go to the private beach near his house, sit on the sand and just glare at the ocean thinking about whatever came to mind. Tonight he began to think about his love life or lack thereof. He was thirteen years old, maybe he wasn’t old enough to be thinking about love or at least that’s what his Mama told him. But all the other guys in his band had their girlfriends to go to, he felt very alone. A cool breeze hit him and he looked up at the dark sky. The full moon glowed brightly. Suddenly he got a feeling he wasn’t alone. Standing up, he looked from left to right then behind him, checking to see if there was anyone there but, there was no one. Vincent shook his head thinking he was imagining things and sat back down on the sand. He closed his eyes and began to picture the perfect girl for him. She would possess an exotic beauty . . . Intoxicating starry violet eyes he could gaze into forever . . . silken strawberry blonde hair he could tangle his fingers in and velvety soft olive skin. Something in her would intrigue him; make him feel something special, that no other women could. They would go to the beach, just taking a stroll hand in hand under the full moon chatting away about nothing. He would kiss her . . . Vincent let out a moan knowing her kiss would be intense. Just right, sensual and not too sweet and not too wild. Sighing, Vincent knew he couldn’t find a girl like that, but only in his dreams. Heading back to his house he heard a soft noise. Something he couldn’t describe. Looking over his shoulder, there was nothing. Walking into the house, he immediately went upstairs to his empty bed. Climbing into bed Vincent held a pillow to his body wishing it was someone he could hold. Sighing, he held his pillow tighter and fell into a deep sleep.

Lillie stood over Vincent’s sleeping body. She was frustrated, puzzled and confused. He was sensing her being there but, how could that be. She was being very careful; maybe her powers are getting weak. Every time she’s around Vincent, he seems to have some kind of spell over her. It weakens her to the point that she can’t concentrate on the real reason why she’s really with him. Lillie had died at a very young age of accidental circumstances, so she was sent to Heaven. When she arrived, she was told she was going to be a Guardian Angel. It sounded so glamorous to her but when she found out she was to guard a young man who traveled a lot and did a lot of public affairs, she started wishing she would have stayed in Heaven. Sitting on the edge of his bed, it hurt Lillie to see Vincent alone. Vincent himself thought that being a Celebrity would be Glamorous but, he soon found out that even though it was a tough job . . . he loved it. Besides it made millions of people happy. Unfortunately, these days Vincent was unhappy, more than his fans and his band mates. He wanted to be in love. Vincent wanted true love. He wanted an unconditional love. He wanted the Romance. The fall in love at first sight, I know you’re my soul mate kind of Love. He knew it would take someone very special. She would have to love him for the real Vincent Stone and not the Vincent The Celebrity. He knew that right woman was out there. Who knows, she could be right under his nose and he would miss her. He’s just so busy. It’s hard to slow down long enough to find someone special. The other guys were lucky. They were already dating their girlfriends when they became Celebrities.

Standing there gazing longingly at Vincent’s restless body, Lillie didn’t understand why such a handsome being like him could be single but, after all he is only thirteen years old. Vincent stirred in his sleep and Lillie froze. Then she let out a sigh of relief, he was still sleeping. Looking at him for a few moments a nice tingly feeling appeared in her stomach. Something she hadn’t felt since she was alive.

Don’t even think about it! a voice echoed in her head. Oh be quiet Adonia! Lillie said in her mind. Adonia is what you would call the Boss Angel. She’s the one who watches over all the Guardian Angels. To make sure they’re doing the job right and not breaking the rules. Lillie thought back to all the endless lectures Adonia gave her and all the rules she had to abide by. Just then, Adonia appeared before Lillie and began to recite the Rules of a Guardian Angel. Rule 1: a Guardian Angel must never play GOD!! If they do, they will answer to HIM and be banned from Heaven. Rule 2: a Guardian Angel may not fall in love with the person they are guarding. Rule 3: a Guardian Angel must not be seen by the person they are guarding. Rule 4: a Guardian Angel must not stop a person from dying unless GOD wills them to live. Rule 5: a Guardian Angel must not play cupid, since there is no such thing. Only GOD makes two people to fall in love. Adonia continued to quote the list of rules. Lillie rolled her eyes and pretended to listen. Lillie hated rules. There were over a zillion rules, but she did her best to follow them. Rules always kept her from doing what she really wanted to do. She wished she could tell Vincent he wasn’t alone and that she was there with him every moment. Yawning, she knew she needed her angelic sleep to give her angel powers rest, she sighed and said.

Well Adonia as much as I love to hear your wonderful voice, I’m very tired and need my rest. Lillie walked over to the chair in the corner of Vincent’s room, curled up and fell asleep. Adonia just shook her head as she began to fade.

God I just don’t understand how you can continue to let her be a Guardian Angel when she can’t ever follow your rules. Adonia waited patiently for his response. Adonia no one is supposed to understand a lot of things I do. Just continue to watch over her. I have big and wonderful plans for this Angel. God spoke to her in his quiet yet gentle, strong voice.

It was a new day. Vincent yawned and opened his eyes. Getting out of bed, he went over to the window and looked at the sun, which rose with its beautiful peaceful colors. Today is going to be a day for change. I feel it. There just something about the way everything looks outside my window. I have a feeling of . . . confidence, like I can conquer the world! Vincent laughed to himself. He stretched and headed for the bathroom. After taking a shower and getting dressed, Vincent grabbed his skateboard and rode it to the Soda Shop called Skitter Bop Shop down the street. It was named after the owner’s childhood dog ‘Skitter’. Everyone loved to come here. It was like walking into the fifties again. Vincent was always the first customer there. Walking inside he ordered his usual, Hot Fudge Sundae with the works. Taking a seat by the window in the far left corner, he glanced out the window. Then he felt it again, a supernatural breeze. Then something filled his ears. That noise he heard last night. Setting his spoon down, he looked around the Soda Shop as he swallowed and his eyes fell on a figure sitting at the counter her back turned to him. She was sitting with her chin resting in her hands staring up at the menu. What was strange about it was; that the waitress didn’t seem to notice she was sitting there. It was as if she was invisible to the waitress. Suddenly she stood up, spun around and looked into Vincent’s eyes for one second and ran out of the ‘Skitter Bop Shop’. She’s beautiful . . . he thought as he quickly got out of his seat. He was hoping he would be able to catch up with her. Vincent ran out the door and stood in the middle of the street, looking everywhere. She was nowhere to be found. The streets were empty. I must be going crazy! Vincent said aloud as he ran his fingers through his hair, he slowly walked back to the ‘Skitter Bop Shop’. Vincent then told himself that she was probably a fan who got frightened and nervous of being within fifty feet of him. But, there was something about her that he couldn’t figure out. Like, she held a power over him. She made him feel safe for some reason. Those eyes . . . he couldn’t get rid of the image of her grey-blue eyes looking into his. Vincent hoped he would see her again. Walking up to the waitress he asked who the young lady was that was sitting there just a moment ago. I’m sorry Vincent but you’re the only one that’s been here this morning. Vincent was very confused. Looking at the empty space where she sat, he could have sworn that someone was there. I’m sorry Stella. I just have a lot of things on my mind lately. Vincent said walking out of the ‘Skitter Bop Shop’. Vincent got on his skateboard and went back to his house. The waitress just stood there with a blank look watching Vincent. That poor, sweet boy needs a good long break from work. He’s too young to be losing his mind now. Stella shook her head and began to wait on the customers that were coming in.

Lillie was pacing back and forth. She felt very nervous, which was unusual. Adonia, I think Vince saw me. Oh what am I going to do? This wasn’t supposed to happen! I just know I’m in big trouble! Lillie said in her mind. She was back in Vincent’s house, in the guestroom. A strange feeling came over her when she looked into Vincent’s eyes. All she knew was that it was a feeling she wanted to feel forever. This Isn’t Supposed To Happen!! You Shouldn’t Have Looked Him In The Eyes, Lillian!! Adonia took a deep breath and let it out. This is just a minor mishap, it will be cleared. I just need to pull a few strings to keep you from getting into trouble. Adonia calmly said.

What do you mean mishap? Lillie asked. Adonia sighed.

"How can I say this Angel Girl? You and Vincent seem to be experiencing the same feelings and emotions. This is a rare thing but, it’ll be fixed in no time. Until then, be very careful around Vincent. Just remember, when you break any of the rules . . . you know the consequences." Adonia gave a stern look at Lillie. Yea, yea I know. Rule number 8974: if a Guardian Angel and the person they’re guarding have contact what so ever the angel shall be discharged and will never be able to guard that person again. but remember it’s only if they can catch me, Lillie said in her mind. Not thinking about the fact that everyone in Heaven can see and hear everything. Hearing the front door open, Lillie went to the stairs and saw Vincent walk in with a depressed look. She just wanted to give him a warm hug and say inspirational words to him. Watching him come up the stairs, she was being as careful as she could be. When Vincent reached the top stair he stopped. He turned and was face to face with Lillie. He had no idea of this and yet he could sense that someone was there. Vincent just hunched his shoulders and said. I don’t know what’s going on with me. I know I saw her, I just know I did. Lillie was holding her breath hoping he wouldn’t see her. When Vincent turned around to walk toward his bedroom, Lillie let out her breath. She could see his hair move. Vincent reached up and rubbed the back of his head and spun around. Lillie slapped both of her hands to her mouth.

I can’t believe it!! He felt that!? Not only did Vincent feel like someone blowing in his hair, he heard a sound. It was like someone had just got slapped in the face. Then he heard someone speak. Is someone there!? I know someone’s there. I can feel it and I hear you!! Just then Vincent heard his Mom’s voice from downstairs. Vincent!! Vincent Haidon, who in the world are you talking to?! Vincent cleared his throat and he tried to stop shaking. He hoped she wouldn’t hear it in his voice. No one Mom, I just turned the T.V. on and the volume was up too high. I’m sorry. Vincent told a little white lie. He didn’t want his Mom to worry. When Lillie heard Vincent’s Mom she quickly disappeared back into the guestroom. Vincent stood there for a few seconds longer, with his hands on his hips and looked around. He just had this weird feeling that there was another presence there. Maybe he was finally cracking up. Being a Celebrity can do that to a person. He shrugged his shoulders and went to his room and lay down on the bed. He turned on the TV. Lillie drifted through the wall of Vincent’s bedroom and just stared at him. She could stare at him for an eternity. It was as if he were an angel himself. With his innocent face, sandy brown hair, chocolate brown eyes and a voice that would make your heart melt when he sang. Vincent couldn’t find anything good to watch on T.V. He turned it off and rolled over to stare out the window. All he could see were the trees and clouds and an occasional bird. Man I’m bored. I can’t wait to get back on the road. Just one more week of this and we start our second tour. Vincent told the bird that just perched on his windowsill. The bird sang his opinion to Vincent and then flew away.

Later that afternoon Vincent and the other guys from his group met to go over their schedules for their upcoming tour. Lillie couldn’t wait for Vincent to get home. He had been gone all day. The rules for her at this time are that she’s not supposed to leave the property. She can only watch over him in his home and yard, because whenever she follows Vincent, she ends up breaking a lot of the rules and gets into trouble. Therefore she has been put on restriction. Yes Angels are supposed to be able to go everywhere, but when Lillie breaks the rules she has to pay the consequences. Little did she know, Adonia has decided that when Vincent and his band go on tour that Lillie will be released to go everywhere with Vincent. When Vincent finally got home, Lillie knew it would be at least two more hours before Vincent would come upstairs. Vincent would have dinner with his family and they would watch something on T.V. together. That’s when Lillie decided to get some rest; she intended to keep her eyes on Vincent all night long.

The following week was a world wind of emotions. All of the guys in Vincent’s band met at his house to load up the tour bus. This week has gone by too fast, Vincent. Lola cried. Vincent hates to see his Mom get so emotional. Mama, please don’t cry. I know I’m going to be gone for a while. Don’t worry; you know I’ll call you every night. Lola hugged her son close and kissed his cheek.

I know you will. Now say goodbye to your father. Vincent hugged and kissed his Mama one last time. Then he threw his arms around his Dad in a bear hug.

You take care of yourself son. Luca said to his son with tears in his eyes.

I will Dad. Then Vincent said goodbye to his three younger sisters and his brother. Vincent stepped away and onto the tour bus they had the name ‘KAOS’ on the side. Vincent and the guys waved until the bus was out of sight. Lola broke down in Luca’s arms.

I’m not going to see my baby for a whole year. Lola tried to stop the flood of tears.

Lola honey, Vincent will be fine. Lola and Luca stood there, holding each other for a few more minutes, watching the road where the bus had disappeared only moments ago. They were praying that the year was already over and that their son was returning home.

To Lillie her journey was about to begin. She was very excited when Adonia told her that she could go everywhere with Vincent. She knew that her first priority was to watch over Vincent. The first four months of the tour went great for the band. Tonight was their last night in Sweden. This concert was to be different, the guys were to ascend from the floor and the platform was to lock in place. Well Vincent jumped up a little higher than he expected too. When he did, the platform didn’t lock and Vincent fell ten feet to the basement below. Without thinking, Lillie fell under Vincent trying to stop most of the impact. Vincent ended up with a few broken ribs and a broken ankle. The paramedics were amazed the he even lived through that fall. But, that wouldn’t be the only time Lillie saved Vincent from near death. There were eight other times that he felt the brush of death upon him. All the doctors could say was: Vincent Stone must have a Guardian Angel watching over him. There is no other way he should have survived any of these accidents. Lillie seemed very pleased with herself, for what she had done for Vincent. But, she agreed with Vincent . . . it was time to go home for a long rest.

~TWO~

~two years later~

The Band ‘KAOS’ were planning to take some much needed time off from touring, since they ended up extending the tour. The fans just kept asking for more. The guys assured their fans that when they start touring again it will be out of this world. They arrived in Florida at around seven o’clock p.m. to start their long vacation. At precisely nine o’clock p.m., Vincent put on his casual clothes and walked down to the private Beach behind his house. Today he would be fifteen. Where has the time gone? It seemed like he was just thirteen, getting on the tour bus and leaving for his yearlong tour, which turned into two years. Even though the guys were tired, they enjoyed every moment they had. Vincent wanted some time alone after the long day he had traveling home. The sun had already set, leaving just a glimmer of colors across the sky. A faint cluster of glittery stars were beginning to show themselves as the moon was peeking through the clouds. Finding his favorite spot, he sat down and stared out at the vast ocean. Vincent closed his eyes and inhaled the calm, peaceful atmosphere . . . listening to the gentle sounds of the waves. That’s when he felt it, a soft breeze against his face. Then Vincent felt the breeze begin to whirl around him, blowing his short sandy brown hair in disarray. It was the same feeling he felt back when he was thirteen. Opening his eyes he looked to his left and saw a small feminine figure standing in the water. The moon was full and bright, making the water glow a ghostly blue. She walked out into the water, ankle deep. She began to dance. It was as if Vincent could hear the music. She was beautiful and graceful. She was a vision of a Ballerina. She didn’t even notice Vincent was there. Not wanting to waist his chance, Vincent got up and hesitantly walked over to her. As he got closer he recognized who she was. It was the young girl he saw two years ago in the ‘Skitter Bop Shop’. She was still just as beautiful and she looked like she hadn’t aged a bit. Vincent just stood and admired her, not wanting to scare her away. Vincent watched her intently. She had strawberry blonde hair that hung in ringlets down to her waist. It blew softly in the breeze sending off the scent of the beach. She was dressed in a long flowing white sundress with a baby blue sweater. She continued to dance, while splashing the water with her feet . . . sending droplets of water from her toes toward the sky. Trying to get a closer, Vincent got about five feet away from her before she realized he was there. Then she turned to leave. Please! Wait! Don’t go?! Vincent yelled to her. She tried to say something but no words would escape her lips. She began to mumble to herself . . . I am in so much trouble! Now I know, for a fact that he has seen me! I saw you at the ‘Skitter Bop Shop’ down the street, about two years ago. Vincent was praying that she wouldn’t run away. She turned around just stared at Vincent wide eyed and shocked. Not exactly the reaction Vincent wanted but, he was glad she didn’t run away this time. She kept backing up as if terrified of him. She kept looking behind her to make sure she wasn’t floating upward, toward heaven and giving herself away. If he could see her, she didn’t need him to know she was an Angel, at least not yet. It’s alright, I won’t hurt you. I’m Vincent Stone. You can call me Vince. Vincent extended his hand to her with a gentle smile. She stopped walking backward and examined his outstretched hand. She was very curious, if she touched him, would they feel each other? She took a deep breath and held it as she slowly reached for his hand and responded. She couldn’t believe it. She could feel how warm and soft his skin was against hers. She felt a warm sensation shoot down her spine until it touched the very tips of her invisible Angel Wings. Lillie, I’m Lillie Thayer. Lillie said in a whisper, as she tried to shake off the strange feelings he was giving her. Vincent couldn’t help smiling at the sound of her voice. It was beautiful and soft; almost . . . Angelic. There was something in her eyes that swept his heart away. Even though he hardly knew her, he knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her. Vincent tried to fight the urge inside of him to take her in his arms and kiss her. It was Lillie that broke the silence. Look Vince, I’m not supposed to be here. I better get going. Lillie said as she started to walk away. Vincent reached out and grabbed her by the elbow. Vincent felt high inhaling her scent. He slowly walked closer to her and put his other hand on her other arm and looked very deep into her eyes. He swore he could see stars in her eyes. They were only inches apart and Vincent wanted so much to kiss her. Without thinking, Vincent slid his right hand behind Lillie’s neck and slowly bent his head toward her upturned face. As his fingers tangled into her silken hair, Vincent gently pressed his lips to hers and letting his emotions run wild. It was a kiss filled with longing. Vincent felt Lillie kissing him back with the same need and desire he had, He wished it could last forever. Breaking away abruptly, trying to get air back into his lungs. Vincent stared longingly into her grey blue eyes. He could hear his heart beating in his ears. With Lillie still in his arms he held her closer to him. He felt her shiver. Please don’t go Lillie, I need you. Vincent whispered in her ear, breathing in her intoxicating scent. Usually Vincent didn’t believe in Love at first sight; until today. Everything felt right. For the past two years, the memory of her stayed in his mind, like a dream haunting him. After thinking he would never see her again, he found himself holding her in his arms. Vincent I can’t stay. I mean, I can but, I shouldn’t. Vincent cut her off by kissing her again. Vincent felt Lillie’s hands pressing against his chest. Lillie jolted away and stared at Vincent. I got to go, my uh . . . Parents will kill me. Lillie said trying to shrug off Vincent’s hands. Will I be able to see you again? Vincent asked caressing her soft angelic cheek. I’m not sure. Lillie said before she ran off. Vincent ran after her but stopped abruptly. He rubbed his eyes and looked again. He stared in the direction that Lillie ran. It seemed as if she disappeared into thin air. He took a deep breath, running his fingers over his lips, which were still swollen from the intense kiss he shared with Lillie. This was definitely the best Birthday he had ever had.

Standing in the Heaven’s Office for Angel’s, Lillie was pacing back and forth. With one arm wrapped around her waist while she was chewing the nails off of her other hand, Lillie knew she really messed up this time. She couldn’t believe what has just happened. It all went by too fast for her. Lillie just knew that Adonia knew about Vincent kissing her. It would be the end of her ever guarding Vincent again. Just the very thought of his name, brought Lillie back to the moment she looked into his Chocolate Brown Eyes. The feeling inside of her was an emotion she’d never felt before. Lillie couldn’t figure out what she was feeling. "Was this . . . Love?" Lillie asked herself. I mean, after all, I did die when I was very young and I only experienced crushes on boys. But, my feelings for them could never compare to the feelings I have for Vince she sighed with a longing in her eyes as she watched Vince from up above, here in Heaven. Lillian Rayn Thayer. a voice called out to her. Lillie’s head shot up and saw Adonia standing before her. Adonia looked very angry. She was looking at Lillie with such a cold look. Lillie knew at that very moment that she was in a whole heap of trouble. Adonia took Lillie by the arm and walked her right to the Head Arch Angel’s door. No one ever saw Gabriel at least not on a personal level. There were two reasons that you would be seeing Gabriel, you would be getting promoted to Arch Angel, which we all know how often that happens and second you would have had done something really wrong, like breaking the rules, which Lillie has broken too many. Lillian, I thought I taught you better than this. I guess I failed. Adonia just dropped her head and sighed. Look Angel Girl, I know how much you care for Vincent. Caring is a good thing but, not the way you seem to be caring for him. You know it’s against the rules!! Lillie started to walk away then turned on her heel to face Adonia. "Forget The Rules!! I Just Want To Be There With Vince!! I want him to see me and I want to feel his touch, his breath on my skin, his lips . . ." Lillie began to cry. She wiped her eyes and pointed at Vincent. With a soft, sad voice she said. Adonia please, look at Vince. He seems so unhappy all the time. He needs me. Being his Guardian Angel isn’t enough. Adonia shook her head in disbelief in what she was hearing. She opened her mouth to comment but Lillie became fired up again. "I thought that the point of being a Guardian Angel is to comfort and protect!! When I went on tour with him, it felt wonderful to save his life. All I ever do now; is follow Vince around and now I can’t even be within fifty feet of him no matter where he’s at!!! All because he kissed me . . . I didn’t kiss him first . . . he kissed me." Lillie lashed out in anger. Adonia finally was able to cut in. "You’re lucky you still get to be that close!! You have no idea what kind of strings I pulled just so you can still Guard over Vincent!! This is the second time I caught you breaking the rules!! You shouldn’t be guarding anyone right now!! Just to remind you. Gabriel is God’s right hand man. He may not see all that God does but, he does know all! I’m going to leave now; Gabriel said he wanted to speak to you. To be honest with you, I don’t want to stick around and see him banish you. You have become so close to me that it pains me too much to see you fall." Lillie folded her arms in front of her and she gave a sarcastic sigh. "I’m sorry that I break all the rules! I’m sorry that I had to die when I was a little girl! How old was I anyway? Never mind! I’m sorry that I never got to experience what Life and what Love truly is! I’m sorry that . . . I’m sorry . . . I’m . . ." Lillie stopped herself. She knew deep down that there was one thing that she would never be sorry for. She knew at that very moment she needed to express it before she didn’t have the courage to do it. Just so you’ll know; I am not sorry that I fell in Love with Vincent Stone!! Lillie gasped as she realized what just happened. Oh my, is this what it feels like? I guess it is. Adonia, I don’t care what anyone says! I’m In Love With Vincent Haidon Stone!! she sang out as she threw her arms up and began to spin around. Her Angel Wings became visible as she floated and spun around so gracefully. GOOD!! Then this next assignment should be easy for you. Lillie froze in her tracks. Then slowly she turned around as she floated back down, with her arms still in the air, somewhat embarrassed to see the Arch Angel Gabriel standing there with a wide grin on his face. Lillie let out giggle of embarrassment; then cleared her throat. Lillie looked at Adonia. She was confused. Wasn’t he supposed to be banishing her? You’re giving her an assignment?! But Sir, she’s always breaking the rules! Adonia stood there in disbelief. In his bold, yet gentle voice he replied. Yes, an Assignment. Gabriel reached his hand out to Lillie and she shyly took it. Gabriel whispered something in her ear. Adonia leaned forward, trying to make out what Gabriel was telling her, and they both turned and looked at Adonia. She quickly stepped back. Lillie had a look of surprise on her face of course Adonia couldn’t hear a word that was being said. Do you think that Lillie is going to tell her what Gabriel said? Absolutely not! This was going to drive Adonia crazy, because she knew that Gabriel wasn’t going to tell her either. Gabriel gently laid his hand on Lillie’s head and she slowly closed her eyes. When Lillie opened her eyes, she was standing in the middle of Vincent’s bedroom. Checking the clock on the bedside table it was almost midnight. Lillie thought how slow time went in the living world. Then she turned to look at Vincent’s empty bed. Lillie felt a strong painful tugging on her powers. She looked toward the window and slowly went to it, with fear of what she might see. What Lillie couldn’t understand was why she was having so many Human emotions. She took a deep breath and swallowed hard. She carefully looked out the window to the sandy beach below. There she saw Vincent, standing with his hands in the pockets of his khaki pants, that were rolled up just above his ankles, bare feet and a white long-sleeved dress shirt, where the sleeves were rolled up to his elbows and it was completely unbuttoned, with the gentle wind blowing his shirt just so Lillie could catch a glimpse of his well sculpted chest. Lillie hadn’t realized that she had quit breathing until she felt the sharp intake of breath. She rubbed her eyes and shook her head to get back to the real reason why she was checking up on him. Vincent turned just enough so Lillie could see his face. Vincent was staring out over the ocean and enjoying the moonlight. He seemed to be feeling peaceful. But through Lillie’s eyes she could see so many different emotions on his face. Lillie wanted so much to run to him and enjoy his sweet gentle kisses. Then she remembered what Gabriel had told her; an Angel and a Human were never to fall in Love. But something was happening between them, something very real. Lillie slumped down in the chair next to the window and buried her head in her hands and felt the tears fall from her eyes. I haven’t cried since I was alive. Why? Why now did I have to fall in love with Vincent? Then she heard Gabriel’s soft voice. "You’re human side will grow stronger every day. This all started when Vincent first saw you. Then when he kissed you . . ." Lillie could no longer hear Gabriel speak to her because she began to remember Vincent’s kisses again. Then she realized. Vincent is changing me? Does this mean that I can become human again? Then she put that thought out of her head. That’s impossible; a human can’t change me. It is I that can change them. Lillie knew there was no way to fight these feelings inside her. Lillie looked quickly to the window and stood up and floated to it. She heard Vincent gasp. There had been so many complications for Vincent and his band mates this past tour. Vincent had run himself down, not getting enough rest and not eating properly. Vincent knew his health wasn’t good. He promised everyone that he would slow down and take a year off. He took the year off but he has not slowed down a bit. Lillie was now beside Vincent wanting to hold him in her arms. She suddenly found herself gazing into a pair of soft brown eyes filled with shock. Then Vincent collapsed to the ground. Dropping to her knees, picking him up off the ground; Vincent was unconscious. Then Lillie decided to do the one thing that she knew that would have her banished immediately. She looked up toward heaven. God Please Forgive Me? Then she looked back down at Vincent’s face. All she knew was she had to do something and do it fast. Concentrating; with all her power she placed her hand on Vincent’s heart, slowly she brought her lips within inches of his and breathed gently, passing her strength as an Angel into his heart and lungs. With a soft groan, Lillie felt a little dizzy but, it didn’t matter. Lillie knew she had saved Vincent’s life and she had broken another rule, the one that could banish her forever. Seconds later, Lillie watched as Vincent’s eyes slowly fluttered open. He stared weakly at her before he spoke. I must be in Heaven Vincent put his hand to his heart and realized that Lillie still had her hand there. No Vincent you’re alive. You just passed out. by this time Lillie already had Vincent back in his room. She helped him to his bed and sat down next to him. How did you get me into my house? Vincent asked weakly never taking his eyes away from hers. I carried you. Vincent gave her a strange look. That’s impossible. There is no way that you carried me. I mean look at you. I’m five foot eleven and still growing. There’s no way you carried me. Lillie took a deep breath then, she proceeded to tell Vincent everything. Vincent, there’s something I need to tell you. I don’t want any of what I tell you to frighten you. I want you to know the truth about me. Vincent smiled and relaxed. It all started when I was very young. I was in a car accident with my Mom. She was driving me home from dance practice. It was dark and the roads were very icy, snow was falling hard. Mom lost control of the car and it kept spinning. We didn’t see the truck that was trying to cross the bridge from the other side. Last thing I remember I was watching the truck head straight for my side of the car. All I could say in my mind was; God please take care of my Mama . . . I died just seconds before the truck hit. I know that sounds strange but God spared me the pain. I know it all sounds strange but there’s more. It was from there the other Angels told me that I was a natural born Angel. Then Gabriel, the Arch Angel gave me a job to guard a young man named Vincent Haidon Stone. So I’ve been with you by your side, watching you, guarding you and protecting you since you were thirteen years old. I’m not supposed to be talking to you. You’re not supposed to see me or touch me and yet you have. This is all against the rules. Lillie stopped talking, taking a deep breath and looked at Vincent to see if he believed her. You’re . . . you’re my Guardian Angel? I must be dreaming. thinking of a way to prove that he wasn’t dreaming, Lillie bent down and touched her soft lips to his for a light yet intoxicating kiss. Vincent returned the kiss with a surprise desire. Lillie pushed away from him and her wings became visible as she floated three feet off the floor. Her wings shone like silver glitter from the sunlight coming from the bed room window and her angelic scent was intoxicating him yet again. Vincent laid there and blinked his eyes several times. He swallowed hard then took a deep breath. As Lillie’s feet touched the ground, her wings slowly disappeared, sprinkling silver glittery dust all around Vincent’s room. Lillie was surprised that Vincent immediately, got off his bed and walked up to her and wrapped his arms around her and kissed her again. Then he looked deep in her eyes. Lillie . . . you can’t leave me again. Vincent whispered into her ear. I’m sorry Vince. I’ve already risked too much at this point. Just being here with you, letting you see me, feel me . . . I’ve got to go!! Lillie slipped away from Vince, she knew she had broken too many rules today. Then she gave him his life back without permission. Lillie knew she was in big trouble. Vincent staggered to the door, still feeling a little off balance. He was too weak to run after her. Vincent watched as she turned to look at him, blew a kiss and disappeared before his eyes. Vincent rubbed his hands over his eyes then up through his hair, then shook his head. I can’t believe that I was just kissing my Guardian Angel. That’s impossible; isn’t it? Vincent slowly walked to the window. He knew he was losing it. There was too much on his mind. Even though they were supposed to take a break from touring, it didn’t stop the band KAOS from working. They were in the middle of recording a new album and making videos. Vincent had no time to do anything fun. Starting tomorrow, Vincent and the guys will have photo shoots, T.V. and radio interviews and award ceremonies. Vincent knew he had better slow down somehow or else he feared that he may not be around much longer. He had been having chest pains quite frequently; the doctor said it was due to a lot of stress. Then he pushed those thoughts aside and began to think about Lillie. He felt that deep in his heart