Fallen

Chapter Twenty Two

Michael kept true to this word in the days following his meeting with Father Josiah. Despite the fact that to remain cautious also meant having to stay away from Harper, something that caused him an almost physical pain, the Angel remained absolute. His nights, where previously would be spent either considering ways to sneak to her room, or putting those theories in to practice, were now spent considering their life and future.

He knew she was fearful of what was to come. Beyond the chance of being caught, of his damnation and her own, Michael knew Harper feared Heaven. It was a world she knew nothing of, just as Earth was completely foreign to him. Of all the Fallen for him to fall in love with, in a strange twist, he falls for the one who had long ago given up on the chance at redemption.

He wished he could set her at ease. To tell her stories of his life, of what Heaven was like, in the hopes that hear fears would lessen. But, he knew he could not risk going to her until they knew their fate. Until met with Father Josiah, and the answer of Rahmiel given, Michael was not going to chance being caught with her.

Thankfully, Harper seemed just as careful. Her dramatic change in behavior was something that had gained the attention of the Angels, as well as the community. Granted, all thought it was merely their presence, and the situation they all faced that had caused her to suddenly repent, and Michael was not about to correct them.

As the weeks end neared, it was as though Michael could see the light at the end of the tunnel. He was to meet with Father Josiah the next day, along with Miles, to receive his answer. The anticipation he felt was unlike what he expected, as he had never desired anything more. The excitement, coupled against the fear of possible damnation, was equal in measure. He knew their fate could fall on either side of the knife they balanced on, and in reality, it came down to Rahmiel's own discretion whether they be damned or absolved.

"I feel he will see in your favor," Miles said, as he walked with Michael in the bright afternoon sun. The arrangements for their meeting with the Father were made, and now, it was merely waiting that remained.

"I hope you are right," Michael admitted. "I am not as confident. I know it is of equal chance which side he will sway. I can only hope that his own favor towards me has some weight in his decision."

"I am sure it will," Miles smiled. "You were always one of his favorites."

This caused Michael to laugh. "Are you saying I am, as they say, the teachers pet?"

"Entirely not," his friend grinned. " I am merely stating a fact...laced with a touch of humor at your expense."

The two chuckled under their breath, ever careful that their conversations would not be overheard. It was a difficult thing to balance, being deceptive, while being unable to lie. It was something that neither knew, that neither was familiar, and that both feared retribution.

"The end is near," Miles added as they turned the corner towards the garden. "This time tomorrow, you will have your answer."

Michael nodded, thankful for Miles support, when a voice called out over the air.

Looking up, Michael sees Xander Verland stalking towards them. Immediately, he felt his body tense as though on its own accord. He had been noticing more frequently lately that human instincts were now quicker to take effect the longer he was on Earth. It was frightening to consider that he was slowly becoming mortal in that way.

As Xander approached, Michael was careful to remain calm.

"Mr Verland. It is a pleasure."

Xander was not amused, stopping only a pace from the Angels.