Seven years had gone by since the meeting in Chicago. Ray had his own parish now in a small town in Iowa. A young priest was sent to him for training. He was only 22 and had already proved himself remarkable in his calling. Ray learned much from him even though it should have been the other way around. He seldom thought about the past anymore. His days were filled with the needs of others. His parishioners adored him. So giving and so kind they all said. He was good and kind. The love he received from them was all that he needed now.
Cassie and Michelle had become good friends. Michelle had children of her own now and Cassie spent time in their home with her own children. Tammy often baby sat for Michelle and Danny. As they sat in the park one day Michelle asked a question that years ago she would never have asked.. she had to.. it had bothered her for years.
"Was there ever anything between you and Ray. Danny and I often wondered. I know it is none of our business and I would never ask.. except I would like to tell you about Ray..you know?"
Cassie thought for a long time before she answered. After all , what did it matter now.
"Once .. it only happened once.. poor Ray.. I know he was sick about it.. he suffered so much because of it and I did also, you know?"
Michelle sighed.
" I can never tell Danny. He would never understand." Michelle said watching the dark haired boy who was intently digging in the sand.
"Cassie, he is very happy now. His parish is thriving and they love him to death. He is such a good priest and a good man."
Cassie said she could not agree more. He was a good man.
They never spoke of this again. Cassie was relieved to tell someone. Ray had the confessional she had never been able to tell anyone.
RJ ran to Michelle and said " You better get Raymond.. he is eating sand"
Michelle laughed and went after her son.
THE END
