Zion's Children - pt. 24

Miri's surprise at Lily's admission was quite evident. "You?"

"Yes." Lily couldn't stop herself from blushing. "I surprised you haven't noticed, given how you take care of everyone."

"I have been a bit distracted," murmured Miri, her mind racing. "Not...you know, now that you mention it, Doctor Alexander has been a little more chipper since you arrived."

"He's very devoted to your people, Miri," was all Lily could bring herself to say.

"Yes. He's been here for a long time. He's a good man, Lily. And he's a like believer. There's nothing to be ashamed of there."

Lily smiled, though just barely. "This isn't exactly the time to be starting a relationship. Like I said, he's very devoted to your people."

The younger woman didn't have an immediate response. She sat there a moment, looking discretely at the other people. Most were praying on their own, though here and there were a few people praying together. Or praying for each other. She had heard tales of blood fueds ending...of broken friendships being mended...discordant familes reuniting...all because of this plague. "Perhaps this is the best time," she said aloud. "Time is short for many of my people. Many relationships...friendships, families...have been mended because of a close death. No one wants to waste what time we might have left. No one wants regrets. And if Byrin has found the disease in ConFleet people, then you're time could be short as well. Why should we sorrow? I can at least befriend Byrin, witness the love of God to him. He might never believe, but we would be richer for a friendship, and I would have at least tried. At least you don't have that concern."

"No, I guess not. But it would be hard to compete with your people for his attention."

"He might be a compassionate doctor, but he is still a man. If he feels anything for you, the only thing that would hold him back would be a direct 'no' from God. You can at least be his friend. He is a lonely man, Lily, though one wouldn't see it easily. He hides in his work well."

"Don't we all, to some degree?"

"Most likely." Miri took a deep cleansing breath. She was feeling better. God didn't always answer her like she wanted, but He always answered. "Well, shall we return to our duties?"

"Yes. They're probably looking for us by now."

"Then let's not make them look long."

The two women stood up; one graceful, the other unable to take the military out of her manner, but graceful in her own way.