That Which Is Forbidden

By D. Jeremy Doraido

After months of traveling, Dr. William Michaels and his daughter Dr. Allison Anderson have finally arrived home to their log cabin nestled in the mountains of Western Maryland. Allison is almost nine months pregnant. Her dear husband Jason died in Northern Virginia of the deadly man-made virus. Dr. Paul Taylor was to deliver the baby boy; unfortunately, he is in the hospital, not expected to live. His wife and baby daughter predeceased him. William is more than capable of handling a normal delivery. However, tests indicate Jason Jr.'s health has been compromised by the virus. Will he even live through the night to see the sun rise? Neighbors living on the mountain offer support, much as a family, sharing clothing, food, knowledge, and love. In their war-torn world, a hug from caring companions is valued most of all. The group is sustained by the love of Jesus. They are the living Church.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Oct 20, 2021
• ISBN: 9781098092764

Book preview

cover.jpg

That Which Is Forbidden

D. Jeremy Doraido

Copyright © 2021 by D. Jeremy Doraido

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods without the prior written permission of the publisher. For permission requests, solicit the publisher via the address below.

Christian Faith Publishing, Inc.

832 Park Avenue

Meadville, PA 16335

www.christianfaithpublishing.com

Shutterstock picture used for cover of book

Bible references from the NIV

Printed in the United States of America

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 1

To my husband, Vern, who faithfully edits my books.

To Bill K. and Edwin S., faithful leaders with local health departments during our time of crisis. To all the medical people and first responders who worked so tirelessly for everyone in their communities during the pandemic of 2020.

Special note from DJD

I also dedicate this book to anyone who has wondered about the backstory. This is the key to all other books. Read it first or last, but enjoy.

I really want to thank all the people involved working on this project at Christian Faith Publishing. You all have made it such a pleasure.

Other Books by D. Jeremy Doraido

General Fiction

Dream Catcher

Sanctuary

Chicken-In-the-Kitchen Farm

Adult Science Fiction

With Darkness Come: Book of the Protectorates #1

Where Evil Dwells: Book of the Protectorates #2

A Taste of Venom: Book of the Protectorates #3

Dreams of Peace: Book of the Protectorates #4

Life of Grace: Book of the Protectorates #5

In peace I will lie down and sleep,

for you alone, Lord,

make me dwell in safety.

—Psalm 4:8 (NIV)

List of Characters

In order of appearance

Membership names noted as *mn.

Dr. William Michaels, MD, PhD: Family practice/general surgeon/professor; father of Allison, grandfather to Jason Jr.; known also as Papa Will, Uncle, and code-named Wizard

Emma Michaels: wife of William, deceased

Dr. Allison Anderson: wife of Jason Sr., mother of Jason, virologist, *mn, Arlin

Dr. Jason Anderson Sr.: virologist, deceased

Jason Anderson Jr.: also known as Aurelius and Jason

Dr. Paul Taylor: OB/GYN, *mn Raymond; Assembly member Guardian Master Raymond in book #1

Fayola Taylor: wife of Paul Taylor, lawyer, deceased

Amy Taylor: daughter of Paul and Fayola, deceased

Drs. Wade and Naomi Taylor: parents of Paul Taylor, Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore

Three Hunters: National Guard Soldiers

Sam: plumber with shotgun

Roy: builder with crossbow

Butch Van Cleave: sheriff’s deputy who cleaned deer, *mn Lowell, house parent to Lawgiver Boys

Anderson: Shepherd Family

Dr. Martin Anderson: chief of staff; husband of Catherine, father of Jason Sr., Matthew, and Mary Frances

Dr. Catherine Anderson: internist, *mn Frederick, Assembly member

Dr. Mary Frances Anderson: pediatrician, *mn Morgan

Dr. Matthew Anderson: pediatrician, *mn Randolph

Dr. Lacey Anderson: wife of Matthew, mother of Blake, *mn Sydney

Blake Anderson: infant mutant son of Matthew and Lacey

Hilda Shepherd: art teacher, mother of Lacey and Travis, grandmother of Blake, *mn Jergen

Captain Travis Shepherd: Army medic and midwife, *mn Kelly

Brian Weller: worker for electric company

Harley Family: neighbors

Ralph Harley: auto shop teacher, army vet

Nikki Harley: wife

Lillian (Lily) Harley: Grandma Undershirt, midwife/nurse

Mark Harley: oldest son

David Harley: youngest, *mn Aaron

Watson Family: neighbors

Greg and Shelia Watson: neighbors at farm

Leroy Watson: son with virus mutations age of Jason

Bob and Joyce Watson: adult brother and sister-in-law

Charley Watson: another brother

Other Watson family mentioned

Bertram or Tram: Bio-endo-analysis modem—BEAM Unit or Bio-modem Unit; belongs to William Michaels

Hospital Staff

Dr. Stan Wyland: trauma, *mn Harrold, Assembly member

Dr. Nate Palmer: pediatrician, *mn Dylan, Assembly member

Dr. Langdon Osgood: *mn Luther Manfred, head of Level 4 lab, Supreme Ruler of Country

Dr. Wes Percy: psychiatry, med student, *mn Tristam

Dr. Jane Jackson: neurology, *mn Curtis, Assembly member

Dr. Alice Odem: orthopedics, *mn Bellamy, Assembly member

Dr. Gail Rose: ENT, *mn Paul, standby for Assembly

Governor Dr. Ellen Stanley: neurosurgery, *mn Leister,first chair on Protectorate Assembly

Dr. Calvin Mooney: *mn Samuel,Assembly second chair, virus victim

Dr. Neal Slocum: *mn Morton,Assembly third chair

Dr. Mason Turner: trauma, *mn Vargus

Wells Smithson: dentist, *mn Fritz

Operating room male nurse who wants to advance to PA

Army members

General Redman: Army commanding officer for University

Allen Fareman: protectorate security chief, *mn Levi

Sergeant Cecil Newcomer: Gave up law practice in Texas

Ryan: state police, friend of Wes Percy, *mn Garmon

Captain (Enforcer): *mn Warren, assists Raymond, no citizen name

Three chaplains from chapel and hospital

Pastor Hershel Stewart: Faith Bible Church in town

Priest: Fr. Michael Owens, church torched in town

Rabbi Goldstein: synagogue in town

Herman Frank: lay leader for Faith Bible Church

Professor Joe Hastings: beekeeper, murdered

Dr. Wilkes: head of lab in Florida

President of USA and vice president: only mentioned

Lieutenant Governor Fuller of Maryland: only mentioned

Chad and Jean: workers at Level 4 lab in Frederick

Randall Houston: secretary of Defense, acting president of USA

Body Hunters: red armbands, Meriac Cult members

Kayla Shepherd: infant who miscarried

Ms. Gibbs: old lady in nursing home

Man at pawnshop

Bob Travers and son Teddy: Body Hunters in book 1

Animals

Ferdinand: Ferdie for short, white male Persian cat

Brownie: female boxer at Watson farm

Alfonso: Joe Hastings’s male mule

Storm: black stallion that Enforcer Kelly rode

Chapter 1

Was this path to the cabin always so steep, Papa Will? Or am I not remembering…? Allison asked, her breathing coming in gasps as she clung to her dad’s arm. Perspiration beaded up on her face to run in rivulets down her sunburned cheeks. I am so thirsty.

I believe what’s changed is you, he patiently replied, smiling at his almost nine-month pregnant daughter. How about if we rest awhile on that log? I’m sure Paul and Fayola will have something cold to drink. Even if it’s only a chilled glass of spring water. He glanced about, secure in the quiet woods. Only the birds could be heard chirping in the trees. The rioting and looting of town was far below.

I may never get up again. Who would have thought after all the days and months we’ve spent walking, the last hill home would have done me in. Allison massaged her sore back with both hands, contemplating the moss-covered log.

Take it easy for a few minutes, William said, holding her arm. Do you see the three deer over there eating? he whispered, pointing, as he helped her cautiously sit.

The blast of a shotgun going off echoed through the woods, startling both of them. Allison covered her mouth to stifle a scream as she tumbled off the log to hide in the undergrowth. William crouched down with his daughter, attempting to shield her with his own body.

Got it! a man yelled, watching the buck drop on the first shot. Meat for dinner tonight.

Who’s going to clean it? a second man asked, his footsteps pounding through the dead leaves and rotting limbs underfoot. Let alone get all the pellets out.

Give it to Roy. I made the kill. It’s not my problem. Wasn’t that the deal that he’d clean what I killed?

Hey, I never agreed, Roy replied, stomping along with the other two men. He’s yours, Sam. Like you said, you shot it. Spooked the rest of them. I could have brought him down with an arrow. They would have kept right on eating. Butch could have gotten the others easily with his rifle. Then we would have had meat for the entire group. A couple of squirrels is not going to go far. That’s the last time I agree to bring you and your shotgun along.

I’ll do it. Stop arguing, you two, Butch, the second man said, taking out his knife. Why don’t you see what else you can find before we head back. Maybe there’s another deer you haven’t already scared to death. But do it quietly. People live around here.

Didn’t we promise to get Paul’s wife and baby girl? Roy asked in a whisper, surveying the wooded hill, his compound bow ready for other game. That’s why we brought the truck.

I didn’t forget. Drive on up the hill. Pick me up on your way back. And remember, be respectful. Might want to fill the hole back in too. Check to see if the house is secure. Who knows how the Body Hunters left it. I told Paul we’d see to everything for him. Doc says he’s got a long ways to go, but they think he should be all right in a few weeks. That is if the other virus complications don’t kill him.

Allison silently cried while listening to the three men. William hugged her. His dear baby girl had been so strong. She nodded her head while attempting to dry her eyes. But she couldn’t smile. Seeing Paul again had been her reason for enduring the long trek. He would deliver her baby. He would know what to do for her at-risk child. She massaged her huge belly. Jason was quiet. He had been jumping around earlier. In some ways, she was glad not to have delivered prematurely. Jason was safer with her.

William placed a finger to his lips and motioned her to rise from the ground. He hoped to sneak around to the man’s right while he was involved gutting the deer.

I’m not deaf, Butch said, noticing the hint of light blue pants and hearing the rustle of leaves. Do you two live around here? His full attention was on them as he watched the middle-aged-plus gentleman and an extremely pregnant young woman standing frozen on the hidden, wooded path from the valley below. Most likely, it had been worn by deer trampling through the years in their search for food and on their way to the stream for water. I’m not going to harm you. The name is Butch Van Cleave. I’m local. Slowly he rose, the bloody knife in his right hand. The rifle remained leaning against the tree trunk, where he had propped it so he could work, but close at hand if needed.

We were hoping to stay with friends, William said, an arm about his daughter, but suspiciously eyeing the dark-haired unshaven man wearing the uniform of the National Guard.

You don’t look like trouble, Butch replied, smiling. We were hunting for meat for the group holed up at University, he said, pointing down below to the stone structures using his bloody knife. Excuse me. I forgot. He attempted to clean his hand on his camouflage pants.

Are you professors? William asked, thinking the staff had never included someone looking quite so at home with weapons. He did know Martin liked to hunt, but that was the extent of his involvement.

No, Governor called us to secure the place. Only some of us are from around here. We were getting a bit on edge. So we volunteered to come out and see what we could find. Last couple nights we were involved fighting off mobs. He paused to study them. So you live here?

We used to own the cabin up ahead. Actually, I still do. A friend was renting it. So you live close by?

Sheriff’s deputy, Butch replied, displaying the badge in his pants pocket. My family was from here. I grew up playing on this mountain with a group of local kids. I live in town now. Well, I used to before they burned it down a couple nights ago. So you know Paul Taylor?

He’s a good friend, William said, his arm about his daughter. He’s sick?

Caught the virus. I was told he has pneumonia too. Body Hunters dropped him off their truck the other night. He’d been delivering babies at residences because of our shelter-at-home directive. Not that we needed an order from the governor. The roads weren’t safe from looters. When he got ill, they brought him in for the reward placed on scientists. He asked us to bring back his wife and baby girl. They wouldn’t even allow him a decent burial for his family.

Allison covered her mouth with her hand and cried.

It will be all right. I can handle the delivery, William said, kissing her hair.

If you need a place to stay, you’re welcome to come back with us. The hospital is still open for patient care. The doctors are working overtime to accommodate emergencies. It hasn’t been easy. We keep the fires going at night around the periphery to discourage intruders. Last week there was an attempt to storm the buildings. Butch paused for a moment. Didn’t I used to see you in town? Aren’t you Dr. Michaels? Your wife was a teacher at the high school. Sweet lady. I had her my senior year. I was so sorry to hear when she died. She wanted me to attend the art institute. My family couldn’t afford the tuition. Instead, I went to the police academy and joined the sheriff’s department. They sent me to school part time. I graduated this past spring with my bachelors in criminal law. I was up for promotion in the Guard before all of this trouble started.

William nodded, acknowledging his question and offer of sympathy. This is my daughter…

Allison, right? You married a friend from school. How is Jason? Didn’t he used to work in his parents’ practice with his brother Matthew? I haven’t seen him much since the wedding. Guess we were both busy. I heard you two had moved.

He’s dead, William replied for her. We both thank you for the offer of the ride, but we’ll go to the cabin. I know the Watsons at the farm below. I’m sure they can assist if need be. William turned, encouraging Allison to continue on up the hill.

I’ll walk with you, Butch said, picking up his rifle and sliding his bloody knife in the sheath at his waist. Do you own a pistol, sir?

William patted the hidden holster beneath his loose shirt.

I’d keep it close. Especially when she delivers. There are crazy people out there right now. Even here on the mountain. If you change your minds, we’d be more than glad to come pick you up. We can always use an extra person with a gun at University. And especially more doctors. We’ve lost a number of them the past few weeks. The Watsons have a ham radio. Let them know if you have an emergency. We’ll do our best. Cell phone service is spotty. Gasoline is limited. Our underground tanks are almost empty. The last truck due was blown up on the dual highway four miles south toward Frederick. I doubt there will be another. At least not any time soon.

You said they burned the town? William asked as they walked.

The sheriff’s office and the place where I rented an apartment. It’s going to take a long time to rebuild. University is putting a lot of people up.

I had a home on Juniper Street. Paul was watching it for me.

It might be okay. Unless they realized you were a doctor and they were looking for drugs. Or maybe even you.

The statement sent a chill down William’s spine. I didn’t have a sign to announce my profession. I taught at University hospital.

Might be fine. Butch didn’t smile. Some of these groups aren’t local to our area, and they don’t know our people. They’re angry and blame scientists for the virus. With our teaching hospital, we are a target.

Right now, I only want a secure place to help my daughter have her son.

No location is safe, but I would think here on the mountain is the best you’re going to do for now. Probably even better than coming back with us. Like I said, we were almost overrun the other night. We can keep an eye out for you. I’ll try to come back and check. If you want, I’ll say something to Paul.

Don’t bother him right now. Knowing Paul, he’ll attempt to come himself. Let him concentrate on getting well. Maybe later. I can handle the delivery, William said, smiling, hoping there weren’t any complications with the birth. He knew Allison understood the risks involved. But somehow saying it aloud to a stranger would make it all too real.

Her dear child was a mutant because of the virus. Early exposure during the development of the embryo had somehow altered its DNA. Only time would tell to what extent. They were dealing with an unknown. Allison was in love with him. She had been since the first pregnancy test proved positive. Her husband Jason eagerly anticipated the birth, but the virus had killed him when they reached northern Virginia on their long journey back, mostly on foot, from Florida. It had been a mild winter. And fortunately, they had arrived home in June before the summer heat made their travel miserable. Also before infant Jason was due to deliver in mid- or later July. They were hoping she would have time to rest and regain her strength before labor. Right now, all she wanted was to sit in the shade with a cool drink. And her feet up. Allison wondered who else of her family was still alive in the area. Papa Martin, her dear father-in-law, had never answered her letter. Would he forgive his son? What would he think when he heard his son’s child was possibly handicapped? Abortion had never crossed any of their minds. Jason Jr. was her last chance to keep the memory of her dear husband alive. Unless she had herself impregnated with one of the embryos they had frozen. But that would be for the future to consider. Now her life was baby Jason, who had awakened to begin jumping, causing her belly to shift from side to side. Silently, she cried and rubbed her stomach.

There’s the cabin, William said, hugging his daughter. We’re home.

Roy and Sam were standing on the porch, ready to close the door. Butch called out to them, urging that they wait.

I have Dr. Michaels and his daughter. They want to stay here for now. How is the house?

A little torn up. The phone line was ripped loose from the house. Electric wires are fine. Looks like they were searching for drugs. Dumped out Dr. Taylor’s bag on the table. We thought he might want it, Sam said. We already loaded his wife and daughter. Sure is sad.

I want to see Fayola and Amy, Allison said, extracting herself from Father’s grasp.

It isn’t a pretty sight, ma’am, Sam said, heading down the steps to intercept her.

She shook her head and continued on, throwing back the tarp in the bed of the gray truck. I’m a doctor. But she had to bow her head when she saw the condition of her dear friend and the year-old child. Tears came to her eyes. Quietly she whispered a prayer. I never got to see Amy alive, only videos they sent. She was dark-complected like her daddy. Such a beauty. Paul must be devastated to lose them both.

William pulled the cover back on the bodies and directed his daughter toward the steps of the cabin. How about a cold drink of water? You said you were thirsty.

You’ll bury them at University? Allison asked, concerned for her college friend who had roomed at their home in town.

Behind the chapel, Sam replied, glancing over at Butch.

She was my matron of honor, Allison explained, overcome with grief. I was maid of honor for her. We always said we’d have children together so they would grow up and play as friends. Now my little boy will never know Amy. If he even lives, she stated, her voice trailing off.

Come on, honey. You need to rest, William said, seating her in a chair on the covered porch out of the intense afternoon sun. Could one of you get her a drink, please. I’m afraid she’s exhausted. William set his pack down next to her chair. Also weary from the long hike home, he was hoping there was food in the house.

Roy leaned his shotgun beside the door and went inside to fill a glass from the cabinet.

It looks like the electricity is still on. Refrigerator is nearly empty, but I saw a half gallon of milk and a few eggs. There is a quarter loaf of bread on the counter. Phone is dead, Roy said, returning to hand William the glass. Are you people sure you want to stay here? We’ll make room in the truck if you want to come back. It has an extended cab.

I already asked them, Roy. This is Dr. Michael’s home.

But I thought you said Dr. Taylor and his wife lived here.

They were renting.

Actually, the place belongs to my daughter, William said, explaining. When she and her husband decided to move temporarily, they rented it to their friends. My house is in town on Juniper Street.

I wouldn’t think of going there now if I were you, Sam spoke up. We’ve had rioting crowds in town and Body Hunters looking for scientists. Best not let the word get out that you are a doctor. It’s not even safe for us as part of the guard. I’m normally a plumber. Roy here is a building contractor. Butch is the only one who does this sort of thing full time.

Butch put his guard helmet on, fastened the chin strap, and adjusted his microphone. We’d best be getting back. Lieutenant is going to start worrying. Sam, give them a couple of those squirrels. I’m assuming you know how to clean them, Doc. We’ll check back in a couple days. Let’s pick up the deer on the way, guys.

Sam heaved another deer in the bed of the truck that he had killed with an arrow. Then the three men climbed in the front seat and started down the gravel road.

If we go inside, I can turn the air conditioning on to cool the house. Maybe you could stretch out on the sofa and nap, William said, assisting her out of the Adirondack chair.

I should probably change the beds and do a load of clothes, Allison said, doubting Paul had time to be concerned with housework.

You’re going to rest. I’ll wash the sheets. We can do everything else together later.

What about cleaning the squirrels?

I’ll handle them too, he replied, smiling down at her as she settled into the cushions. Does it feel good?

You know it does, Papa. I could sleep forever. Allison hugged the throw pillow.

The heat pump responded immediately to his touch of the control. Next, he turned on the ceiling fan to distribute the cooler air. He and Emma had stayed in the cabin right after they were married, but it had only been intended as their vacation home. It was a place to visit when they wanted to get out of Baltimore City. When life became too complicated after Allison was born, and his working hours stretched on longer than he and Emma wanted, they packed up and moved to the country to live in the cabin. Quickly they outgrew it and moved to the larger house in town, closer to work at University. Then they gave the cabin to Allison and Jason for a wedding present. But after only a year and a half, the young couple chose to accept an offer to work in a lab in Florida. It seemed only natural for Paul and Fayola to rent it until they could afford to purchase a larger place as their family grew. Now he was back with his daughter and soon to be his grandson.

He looked about the room, checking to see how badly the Body Hunters had torn apart cabinets searching for drugs. Almost reverently he closed doors and straightened the kitchen area. He wondered if Paul would want to come back and live with them. The house only had two bedrooms. His old house in town was much larger with six bedrooms, counting the two in what had been an attic. That was a question for later. For now, he must make his daughter comfortable and keep her safe.

William began by stripping the beds. In the corner of the master bedroom was the crib from Amy. He removed that sheet too, threw all three sets in the large capacity washer, and added laundry detergent. He found a brightly colored afghan in the hall closet to cover Allison against the chill of the fan above the sofa. She was already asleep, hugging her stomach. Many times, he had heard her refer to Jason as her tummy lump when she sang to him. William paused to whisper a prayer for both mother and child. He promised to be a father figure for his grandson. William wasn’t so old that it couldn’t have been his child with a younger wife. Fifty-three was only a little beyond middle age.

Keep them safe, Lord. These are troubling times. Only You know the future of this precious little one. Keep him in Your tender arms. Help me always to be there for both of them. In Jesus’ dear name I pray. Amen. William covered his eyes and wept silently. Help me to be strong for her, Lord.

It was time to clean the squirrels. Food was too important to waste. Allison needed the protein. And if he was to properly take care of her, he needed something nutritious too.

Searching through the kitchen drawers, he located a sharp knife. He decided to take the squirrels out back to work on. The door was unlocked. The deadbolt had been thrown from inside but not damaged. Glancing around as he walked down the three steps off the small porch, he noticed Paul’s gray SUV in the detached garage. Someone had left the door up.

Wonder how much gas it has, he asked aloud. He laid the bodies on a stump rather than use the picnic table. I should check the propane tank too. We probably won’t be able to get it refilled for a while if the guardsmen are right.

Along the side of the house was the herb garden Emma, his dear wife of thirty years, had planted for Allison. It was in need of care but otherwise looked healthy. Back at his own home in town were Emma’s books on plants. Most likely the medicinal herbs would come in handy if the pharmacy in town had been destroyed. He added those books and his own medical texts to a mental list of items to retrieve if he could work out transportation.

After washing his bloody hands at the outside faucet, he checked the car. He hoped there would be enough gasoline to make several careful trips to town in Paul’s vehicle. Maybe even down to University in the valley if baby Jason required life support once he was born. But first, he would have to locate the keys. He should probably turn the water heater back to pilot only to conserve the mostly full propane tank until by some miracle it could be refilled. Unfortunately, he knew it would probably never happen. But he could always hope. Civil disturbances had rocked their otherwise quiet farm community much as it had the larger cities. Scientists along with first responders were targets. William imagined it was outsiders creating looting and burning. The two of them would have to lie low until the violence ended. For the time being, they were father and daughter living in their log cabin. A couple of hermits, existing off the land. Maybe he could exchange something at the farm below for a couple chickens. He would have to think about what they had for trade. The apples weren’t ready to be pick yet. Money, which they didn’t have, was pretty much useless.

William refrigerated the two squirrels then opened the trap door to see what Paul and Fayola had stored in the root cellar. He pulled the string to turn on the light at the bottom of the steps. They were rich! The shelves were packed with jars of home-canned food. Someone had been busy the previous year gathering supplies as if for a siege. A huge bin of apples from their own orchard was in one corner while in another was potatoes dug from the garden. It appeared from the turned ground in the back of the house that Fayola had already planted one for that summer. William knew it was most likely her doing. Fayola loved to garden. She even had peanuts. Not for herself, but they were one of Paul’s favorite snacks. They were blessed to be home after the long, dangerous journey. And to have a full root cellar stocked by a dedicated woman. William began to cry. Fayola would always be his daughter, though she had her own parents. His old friends from Baltimore had trusted him to look out for her at University while she studied away from home. After much hard work, she had graduated to become a recognized lawyer, defending the rights of children. But now, none of it mattered, only the food stored away for a time of riots and rebellions. Fayola couldn’t have known how desperately they would come to depend on her hard work.

William gathered potatoes, corn, green beans, and a jar of tomatoes for his stew. Back in the kitchen, he found a large pot and began to add ingredients.

Something smells delicious, Papa, Allison called from the sofa.

I’m sorry. Did I wake you? he asked, turning from the stove, busy adding the browned meat to the bubbling mixture. Could you keep an eye out while I get some herbs from the garden? It should be all right. I’ll turn down the heat.

Go ahead. I have to pee anyway, she said, pushing the afghan aside then paused to study it. I made this for Fayola’s hope chest when Paul proposed to her. Papa, is she really dead? I waited so long to see her again. She was my sister. That’s what we always used to tell people, but we meant in Christ.

I know, William said, hugging his daughter. I also remember the stares you two would get. What a pair of troublemakers you were together. I still can’t believe someone like Paul would marry her. The man is so serious. And you girls were always ready to pull some outlandish prank.

Or Jason would fall for me? He was so quiet when we met. I seemed to have a negative influence on him. Papa Martin used to shake his head and tell Momma Catherine that their son had hidden talents as a comedian. Excuse me, but I really have to go. Baby Jason must have a basketball in there bouncing it around.

Allison hurried out of the room. William walked to the mantel to pick up a formal picture of Paul and Fayola on their wedding day. Whereas Paul had a rich, dark mahogany complexion, Fayola was almost as light as Allison with her suntan from their many hours traveling. His own arms had burned before darkening.

Papa, there’s hot water. I can take a quick shower, Allison said, almost out of breath with excitement. How about if I throw together a pan of corn bread first. I’m sure if we have milk and eggs, I can find flour. She began scouring the cabinets. Told you so. Go get me an onion from the root cellar for your stew, and then we’ll need a few herbs from the garden. We’re going to have a feast, she said, already measuring out ingredients for her bread.

You know the recipe?

She tapped the side of her head. Momma taught me.

Photographic memory, William said, heading for the door. Be right back.

Oh, Papa, you might want to check out what I found in Fayola’s underwear drawer. It’s there on the table.

Why would I be interested in her personal items of clothing? he asked, a hand on the doorknob.

Pick it up, she replied, smiling, pleased with herself. It’s a Bio-modem with a strap like a holster to hold it in place. Isn’t that what you said it needed? Paul must have been working on it.

William hurried over to examine the black, rolled-up item on the dining room table. I was afraid when I destroyed mine that…

I suspect Papa Martin has made more. Go get me the herbs. Chop up a small onion and add it for me, please. I want to take a shower, she said, sliding her pan in the warmed oven. I set the timer, but I won’t be long. As she straightened up, she called out to him again. Papa, I found Paul’s cell phone in the same drawer. It has a full charge.

He received it from her outstretched hand and kissed her on the cheek. Valuable. Both of you. I’ll be right back.

After adding the herbs and chopped-up onion, he checked the timer then turned on the phone and selected a person from Paul’s contact list.

Martin, he stated.

William? Isn’t this Paul’s phone? Martin replied, a loss for words hearing his old friend’s voice after the long silence of many months.

Allison and I are at the cabin. She found it in a drawer.

Isn’t Jason with you?

He died, Martin. It was the virus. I’m sorry to have to inform you this way. I know he sent you a letter.

I never opened any of them. How long ago?

Over a month. We buried him in Virginia at the local church where we were staying.

I was a fool to turn my back on my own son. He was a good boy. Can I do anything for either of you? Do you have enough food?

We found the root cellar fully stocked with canned goods, apples, onions, and potatoes. I even saw a side of smoked pork. There is frozen food in the chest freezer. Could it all have been from their garden?

Some, but Paul said that’s how his patients were paying him.

Jason sent his love to you and Catherine. It was in his last letter that I wrote for him. How is she?

Doing well. It hasn’t been easy here, William. Paul is in ICU. He’s going to have a long recovery, but he’s had round-the-clock care. You remember Nate. Paul’s on his unit.

Nate is a pediatrician, William said, questioning the statement.

Actually, Nate has been handling the worse cases of virus patients, but with good results. Most of us are doing what we can, working where we’re needed. Catherine and Mary Frances had mild infections. I think they should be fine. My daughter was all set to leave for the mission field as a nun. It’s not going to happen now. Our local church was ransacked and torched last week. Fortunately, Father Owens was here visiting in the hospital. I don’t think the church will be rebuilt any time soon.

You mean University chapel? Have you heard anything about my church?

We’re fine here. However, your smaller building closed because of the virus and social distancing. Instead, they are meeting online. There has been a group of men guarding it and several others both night and day since ours was set aflame. Father Owens and Pastor Stewart are our full-time chaplains at University now. Pastor moved his family into a home on campus. Rabbi Goldstein from town has also joined us, seeking shelter and holding Saturday services for his congregation in one of the smaller lecture halls we aren’t using. He was able to rescue his most treasured items for worship services. Their religious scrolls, a menorah and such with the help of some of the Guard.

Allison is pregnant. That was also in the letters, Martin.

How is she? And the baby?

She’s fine. They had tests run back in Georgia. The child was altered by the virus.

Do you know how?

"We aren’t sure. It’s a little boy. They already named him Jason Junior. He seems to be developing well. Good, healthy heartbeat. He’s getting