Chapter One

“Come on Mark! Loosen up! It’s Christmas time.” Cathy said as she continue eying the different shops in the Mall.

Mark just grumble. He thought how could he had allow her to talk him into joining in this madness. He watched as people scurried about, trying to get in their last minute Christmas shopping. He thought they all fools for making the merchants rich, when none could afford it. They’ll spend every penny they had for just one lousy day and then spend the whole year trying to recover from it. And he felt Cathy was right up there on the list with the rest.

“Okay! If you’re going to be a party pooper. I have one more store to go to and then we can leave.” She stopped and turned to him, as he stared down a man who had accidentally run into him as he passed by.

“NO CATHY! You may join in with the rest of the fools here. I think I shall take my leave now. I’m sorry I even allow you to talk me into this stupidity!“ Mark turned and walked away, leaving a stunned Cathy watching after him.

He never gave a backwards glance. If he did, he would have seen how much he had hurt, the woman who loved him more than anything in the world.

Cathy came into his life les then a year ago. She was able to get through that hardcore, not much, but more than others. She felt she could soften him up. But it prove to have taken its toll at times. She had sworn off him many of times. But she loved him so much, she always found herself coming back. But over the last few months, her heart and began to become immune to him, she was contemplating leaving town after Christmas. Getting away from him, completely would do her some good.

But now, as she watched him move through the crowd, like an walking tower, tears flowing down her cheeks. Her mind had decided. NO MORE!

A beautiful lady, stood at a distanced, watching the event at hand. She looked as Mark spoke so harshly at the pretty young woman and stalk away, leaving her in tears. She could see this is the one who could make things right for him, if he let her. She walked pass Cathy gathering her gifts and followed after Mark.

Mark made his way through the Mall, as he was passing a little old lady dressed like Ms. Claus.

“Hello Sir! Could you spare a little change for gifts for the needy children foundation for Christmas?” She asked with such a sweet smile on her face.

“Madam! Maybe if an organization would have the balls to inform the little crumb snatchers about the lies of Christmas and Santa Claus. You wouldn’t have to be standing here in front of a store begging and bothering good citizens as myself, as we go about our business.” Mark leaned into the old woman’s face sending her backwards into the table behind her falling over it as she watched him stalk away.

The beautiful Lady had come up to see the little old lady being bullied by Mark and falling over her table, as Mark turned and walked away. Passersby, stopped to assist the lady from the ground. She shook her head and glanced over to the lady, seeing she was alright, followed Mark.

He left the MALL. Sighing a relief. Walked over to the curb to hail down a cab. He could hear the jingle of a bell, as a fake Santa stood asking people for change to feed the needy for Christmas. He stood for a moment, seeing as no cabs were stopping for him, he grew even more frustrated at the fact he had allowed himself to be convinced to get partially involved in this Christmas madness He decided to walk down a little further, maybe he could hail down a cab there.

“Hey Mister! Can you spare a dime?” The Santa asked. Mark stopped abruptly, turned his head slowly. Took a long look at the Santa, sending chills up his spine. Walked over to him, staring in his eyes face to face.

“HELL NO!! Maybe if they would get up of their asses as many of us have done and work, as many as us have done...they wouldn’t be homeless. And a fake ass Santa as yourself would be out of a job for Christmas. You PHONY!” Mark yelled at the man sending him into his pot of change being held up by a three legged stand, sending stand and change flying to the ground. Mark stood and laughed, then turned and stalked away. Feeling a lot better.

The beautiful young woman, came up on the scene as Mark left, seeing others were aiding the Santa, she went after Mark.

Part 2

Mark had finally held down a cab. Now home, he stood in front of his house and breathed. He went into his house, hung his coat and hat on the coat rack, made it straight for the bar, got him a can of beer and a bottle of JD. He preceded to his study where he sat down in his favorite chair and took a shot of JD, along with a nice swig of his beer. He was sitting and letting the effects of the beer course through his body, when a knock at the door interrupted his solitude.

“DAMN!” He said. Who could be possibly interrupting his quiet time as he loved to refer to it. He heard the housekeeper at the door. Whoever it was, she knew them and seemed quite the friendly with them. He heard her say, “he’s in the study“. Someone for him no doubt. Well that’s alright. After a few choice words, he would send them on their way.

“Hello Uncle!” The young man said. Mark froze. He hadn’t heard this voice in quite sometime.

“And what do I owe to the honor of your presence?“ Mark asked without looking at the young man.

“Glenda sent me over to see if you and Uncle Glenn wouldn’t mind joining us for a family Christmas dinner. Since he and you are all we have now.

Mark stiffened the more at the last sentence. He slowly put his beer down on the table next to his chair. And just as slow rose out of the chair and turned, staring at the young man for the first time with cold emotionless eyes. The young man stepped backwards from his Uncle’s glare.

“Your sister and you, want me to join you for a ‘FAMILY’ Christmas dinner. Tell me this, Marcus. How could we have a ‘family’ dinner when your sister and you aren’t any family that I care to acknowledge?” He said this with such venom, tears began to form in the young man’s eyes.

“I would be delighted to join my favorite niece and nephew for a Christmas dinner.” Glenn interrupted the abuse. “You go now. And tell my dear niece how much I LOVE YOU BOTH!!” Glenn hugged his nephew and sent him on his way. And then turned his glare onto Mark, as he gave him a snide smile and returned to his chair.

“When are you ever going to let it go? It has been over twenty years now. And you still are harboring what happened so many years ago. And making the children, your nephew and niece, whether you want to admit it are not, pay for it all these years. I’m a shame to even call you brother. I wonder how would Joy feel if she were here now?” Glenn said as he had taken his seat in the chair next to his brother.

“I have been very tolerant of you my brother. Don’t make me ostracize you from my home and life also. As long as you live here in my house. You will never bring up that woman’s name again.” He said as he banged the shot glass down on the table, turning to glare at Glenn.

“Fine Mark! You have a great business savvy. But you don’t know the first thing about what is important. The people that come through your life. I’m going to take a few things with me. And send for the rest. You won’t have to be tolerant of me any further, big brother. I’m going where I know I’m welcome and loved. Merry Christmas Mark!” Glenn left the room swiftly. Mark just stared into the dancing flames, taking a gulp from the can of

beer.

“AHEM!” Someone from behind him cleared their voice.

“WHAT IS IT NOW???” He yelled. “Can’t a man get some peace and quiet in his own home without someone pestering him?”

“AH SIR! Sorry to bother you! But I have some messages for you from Mr. MC Mahon! He was wondering if you could make a appearance at a charity benefit he had put together for Christmas?” Elaine his assistant informed him.

“Tell Him no! I won’t be able to make any benefits, now are ever.” He replied and continued to drink and staring into the fire.

“If I may say, Sir! This would be a big boost to your company if you got this man in your corner. He is very wealthy, as yourself. You wouldn’t want to make him align himself with someone else.” She was very brilliant. That’s why he made her his assistant. She was that damn good!!

“Yes, Elaine! You have the right thought. No, I wouldn’t want him aligning himself with anyone. That would not be a good business move.” He said as he stood up and turned to her, smiling. She hated it when he smiled.

“Does that mean you changed your mind Sir? I can get him on the phone if you want and you can discuss the details with him.” She said as she watched him walk up to her and towered over her 5’3” frame.

“That won’t be necessary! When is this affair?” He asked.

“Tonight Sir!” She answered him.

“Here! Go get you something very nice to wear. You will be attending the benefit to night in my place. Tell Mr. MC Mahon how much I regret not being able to make my appearance tonight, but asked him if he could set up another meeting for us to meet.” He said as he went to return to his seat.

“But Sir! This is Christmas Eve!” She said sadly. Mark stopped and stood motionless momentarily. Then turned to look at her.

“And what does this have to do with an order I have given you?” He said without flinching a muscle.

“I thought I would be having the night off and tomorrow, to spend sometime with my daughter. She isn’t feeling well these days with the illness, you know!” She said hoping he would change his mind.

“Well! Since you have a sick child on your hands. It would be a good idea to follow my instructions. Or find employment elsewhere.” He turned and took his seat in front of the fireplace, never looking to see her response.

Elaine rushed out of the room pass Glenn who had come downstairs in time enough to hear the last remarks of his brother. He shook his head and ran after Elaine. Whom he had come very fond of.

Outside, the beautiful woman had saw when the young man came out of the house very sad. She had heard the exchange from the brothers and the unreasonable demand he made on his assistant.

“Okay brother! It’s time you and I have a long talk!” Joy said as she walked down the street to await her appointed time.

Part 3

Mark had drunk his way into a stupor. The housekeeper had set out his dinner. He tried to nibble on something, but found himself to tired to eat. He slowly made his way upstairs to his bedroom. He went to gather his towel to take a shower, when the bedroom door flew opened by its self. He turned to see who had opened the door, since everyone had left and he alone was in the house. He walked over to the door, peered out, looked from one end of the hall to the other. Nothing.

He listened for any movements that may be heard from downstairs. Silence. He then shrugged his shoulders and went back into his room closing and locking the door behind him.

“Must have been the wind.” He thought out loud as he made his way to the bathroom.

He turned on the shower and hung the towel on the rack. Stepped in the shower and began singing to the top of his voice sounding like a moose at mating call.

Soon finished with his shower, he stepped out on to the floor reaching for his towel. It was gone. He stood for a moment, trying to remember if he had put the towel there or not. Oh well, he was still tipsy, so anything he may or may not thought didn’t mean anything anyway.

“Well that should teach me not to drink so much next time.” He said to himself.

“Or teach you to have a heart!” The voice floated through his mind. He turned to see where it had come from. He ran his hand through his auburn wet hair.

“Who’s there?” He asked, then realizing how silly he looked asking that question when he was the only one in the house.

He turned towards the mirror to decide if he should shave tonight or in the morning. He jumped with a start, when at first glanced he thought he saw a woman staring back at him.

“Whoa, big fellow. Had just a little too much to drink. Well if it weren’t for all those damn interruption, I wouldn’t have taken so much in.” He tried to defend himself.

“Or maybe if your heart wasn’t so hard, you wouldn’t need to drink so much to hide the darkness within.” The voice floated through his mind once again.

“What the ........” Mark yelled running out of the bathroom butt naked.

“Okay! Whoever is playing this joke on me. You can stop now. I am not accustom to pranks. So if you don’t want to see me angry, I suggest you find your pleasures elsewhere.” Mark hollered to the top of his voice at whoever.

“Well well! My little brother has grown to be a big man I see!!” The voice flowed from behind him. Mark jumped around to his surprise at the woman sitting on the end of his bed.

There were no mistaking her. It was his sister Joy. The creamed color beauty , with raven thick hair like waves down her back, her crystal blue eyes that pierced to your soul.

“Joy?” Mark spurted out before realizing he was without attire, ran and grabbed his towel to wrap around him.

“Yes Mark! Its me. And you have been a very naughty boy. Very naughty.” She said softly, as her voice circulated through out the room.

“No! This is a prank! This is not happening. I know! I’m having withdrawals from my heavy drinking tonight and you are the figment of my imagination. Yeah that’s it. You’re not real!” Mark said smugly as he went to sit in the chair by the fireplace, staring into it.

“Think what you want. But did your imagination open your bedroom door. And did your imagination take your towel from the bathroom where it was hanging, tell me this. If I’m your imagination. Why am I touching you now on the arm and you’re feeling me?” She spoke to him as she touched his arm sending him flying from the chair turning to stare at her with such fear in his eyes.

“What do you fear the most my brother. Me here with you now. Then that would knock your theory to hell that what is real is what you can see. And what isn’t, you don’t need to worry about anyway! Isn’t that what you do brother. Shoot down the dreams of others because your heart is made of stone.” She walked towards him as he backed into the bed.

“I don’t know who you are! Nor do I wish to know! If you don’t leave my house now! I will call the police to assist your ass out of here. Because Lord knows I don’t want to hurt a lady.” Mark said as he headed for the phone.

“Oh My Mark!” She said as she smiled and shook her head. Mark held the phone and snapped his head around to her.

“What did you just call me?” He said as he laid the phone down.

“No one has ever called me that but Joy! How did you know this?” He said as he approached the woman.

“You still don’t get it! I’m Joy, Mark!” She said as she watch him come to stand in front of her.

“NO! You’re not her! You’re not her! She’s dead! She’s dead!” Mark grabbed the woman and began shaking her with all his might, losing it.

Next thing he knew, she was gone. Vanished in thin air, he found himself shaking nothing in his hands. He walked over to his bed. Sat down on the edge. Holding his head in his hands, trying to figure out. Was he drunk! Or was he losing his mind.

Part 4

Mark sat cradling his head in his hand. Confused from the evening’s event. He knew he had drunk a little more than usual, but hell. Everything was coming at him at once.

First the incident with Cathy. He knew he had lost her for good. Then his nephew coming over inviting him to a Christmas feast. NO! A family Christmas feast. And then Glenn leaving his house, angry at him for the treatment of the nephew. Well, who wouldn’t need a drink.

“Drinking is not going to make it go away, lil brother!” The voice flowed through the room. Mark snapped his head up to see in which direction the voice was coming.

“My Mark! Why do you insist on this dark side?” She asked as she watched him turn to see her sitting on the arm of the chair by the fireplace.

“You are a figment of my imagination.” Mark sat on the bed still staring at her.

“AM I?” She asked, as she floated over to hover in front of him.

“Okay, lil bro! This is how its going to be. Tonight, you are going to be visited by three Spirits. They each represent your past, present and future. And if you survive it. Well then everything will go well! If not, well can’t say we will be seeing each other again. Mark! Listen to me. These will show you what is in your heart. You must face the demons. Or you will be lost forever. Good luck my brother! I wish you well. The first will come at nine. The Spirit of your passsssst.........” She was gone as quickly as she had appeared.

Mark swallowed hard as he watch her fade away. He ran to the table by the side of his bed. Pour him a glass of JD, gulped it down, shaking all over as the hot fluid surged through his body, giving him a tingling feeling.

“Ghost, spirits! What’s the damn difference.” He thought. He took another swig of the JD! Now he was feeling all fuzzy inside.

“We shall see dear sister, if I will see anyone tonight. I’m going to be so drunk, no one will be able to wake me!” He spoke loud looking around the room as if he was trying to find her. And took one more drink before falling on the bed.

Now the shots were taking affect. He slowly crawled into bed. And just in time before he passed out from too much to drink and total exhaustion.

DONG.....DONG.....DONG......DONG......DONG......DONG.......DONG.......DONG.......DONG!!!!

The clock sounded!!!

Part 5

Mark began to stir in his sleep. He had drank enough to knock him out until morning. But he could sense something was happening in his surroundings. As he slowly came began to emerge from the land of slumber. WHAT? Is that music I hear? And someone ........Singing!!

Marks eyes slightly parted to a bright light seeping through. He had them halfway opened, adjusting to the room illuminated in a bright glow. And popped wide opened to see a the scene at the end of his bed. He sat straight up and watched a fat man with a head full of black hair and beard dancing and singing to the tone of ‘Jingle Bells’! He had on a robe with a crown placed on his head and a scepter in hand, waving it around as if he was conducting an orchestra.

“What the hell our you doing?” Mark shouted as he left his bed and stalked around to the end of it to come face to face with the man.

“How did you get in my room?” He hollered as he wet to check the door never taking his eyes off the intruder.

“Now, now Mark! I ‘m the Spirit of your Christmas past. Remember! Your sister told you I would be coming.” He explained to Mark.

“First off! I was drunk! My sister is dead! She couldn’t have possibly been here, as you are not here........whatever your name is!!” He said as he went to sit on the end of the bed running his hand over the top of his head to the back, resting it there on his neck going into deep thought.

“Foley!” The man said.

“What?” Mark asked looking up at him with a annoyed look on his face from the intrusion.

“Foley! My name is Mick Foley!” He introduced himself, reaching a hand out to Mark. He just looked down at the extended hand and back up to Mick’s face.

“I don’t give a damn what your name is! What I do give a damn about is you being in my room dancing and singing disturbing me out of my sleep.” Marl scowled.

“Well Mr. Mark! I’m sorry about you losing your sleep and all! But, if we don’t do this! You may lose a lot more than sleep!” Mick turned very serious. Mark looked at him, suddenly it was sinking in his thick head. This was not a dream.

“Now come with me Mark! There are some things you need to face!” Mick waved the scepter and Mark found himself in a familiar place.

“I know this place. Why did you bring me here?” Mark said as he walked over to the small house.

Inside was his Older sister Joy. His younger brother Glenn and an Old lady walked around each, giving them a make shift present and a hug to go along with it. The children seemed to light up from their gifts. And he sat at the table watching Joy feed them something she made up for Christmas.

I remember this Christmas! Our parents were killed in and car accident. We had to come stay with our Great-Aunt Esther! She was a sweet Lady. She too old to care for us!” Mark said quietly, as he watched the scene inside.

“Yeah! But she took care all three of you alone, for many years.” Mick whispered in his ear.

“Yes! She did........we were so happy.......”Mark grew silent. Suddenly Mick waved his Scepter......a cloud formed, finding them yet in another place and time.

“WHY HAVE YOU BROUGHT ME TO THIS PLACE AND TIME!” Mark boomed at Mick as he stood in the corner of the room to see an older him and Joy in a confrontation.

“You need to deal with this part of your life, Mark! This was the turning point to what you have become today. You remember what happened that day Mark?” Mick said as Mark stared at his sister and him arguing.

“Yes! Joy was going away. She had met this Career Army man. He was being sent overseas. They were going to get married and she was going to go with him....I didn’t want her to go. I told her I hated her and ran out of the house. That would be the last time I saw her!” Mark said as tears formed in his eyes.

“Can we leave this place, now?” Mark asked walking away from the scene he knew was going to happened next.

“Yeah Mark! We can leave now!” Mick said as he watched the scene come to pass! One wave of his scepter and they were gone. Darkness filed Mark’s mind, as slumber moved over him.

DONG.....DONG......DONG.......! The clock struck twelve times. Signaling the midnight hour. Prelude to the entrance of the Spirit of Christmas Present.

Part 6

Mark was deep in the shadows of slumber land. In the distance, just faintly, he could hear his name being called by someone. It started off far away, but yes, it was getting louder. Someone was calling his name.

“Mark! Mark!” The voice called to him. He began to stir, as he began to become aware of his surroundings.

“MARK! MARK!” The voice blast his ear, causing his eyes to swing open. he sat straight up in his bed, looking in the direction of the voice. Standing next to him was a petite woman in a low cut lilac dress that accentuated her dark skin Her hair was drawn back into a long black braid.

“What the...” He started and was abruptly cut short with the woman holding up her hand towards his face.

“look Mark! Don’t give me any grief! I’m Jacqueline, the Spirit of your Christmas present. Man, do you know how many times I had to call you before your big butt woke. You must have really tide one on, before going to bed!” She said shaking her head. Mark eyes narrowed at the little lady with an attitude as bad as his.

“Come! We have much to do and so little time to do it!” She explained, grabbing Mark by the hand and pulling him out of the bed.

“Woman if you will please..” She stopped him once again.

Mark was steaming now. With two snaps of her fingers and a wave of her hand, a cloud engulfed them and the were transported to a house. He was still evil eyeing Jacqueline, as everything came into focus.

“Mark! You need to focus in on what is in front of you, before it’s lost to you forever.” She said as she stared at the room full of people. Mark followed her gaze.

There in this strange place to Mark, was his brother Glenn. And sitting next to him was Elaine. They seem very cozy. In her lap was her daughter Tina. The child seemed very ill, but very happy.

“You said this is the present?” Mark turned to Jacqueline and asked. She nodded her head.

“Then why isn’t she with the client I sent her to impress in my place. She is suppose to be at that charity event, which I know they had an after party. She will be very unemployed tomorrow for disobeying my orders.” Mark scowled as he turned away from Jacqueline.

“Oh please! Give me a break! Obey your orders like you own her! Why don’t you shut up for a moment and listen to them! Maybe you will get your answer.” She snapped at him with her hands on her hips, staring him straight in the eyes. Mark looked at her very hard, angry at the way she spoke to him. He soon turned his head to his brother as a conversation was being heard.

“Wasn’t that nice of Mr. Mc Mahon to send me home to be with Tina, after I told him how nice I thought it was for him to be donating so much time and money in helping ill children, informing him of the illness of my child.” Elaine said, holding her daughter close to her, as she cuddled next to Glenn.

“Yeah! My brother will be glad to know he has an powerful man in his corner. He seemed very anxious to meet Mark now.” Glenn said as he played with Tina sitting in her mother’s lap.

“See Mark! Not every businessman has your heart. Not only did he allow her to spend Christmas with her ill daughter. But he wants to get with you!! I think she did a very good job tonight. She deserves a raise if you ask me!” She said smugly.

“No one asked you!” mark retorted, as he watch two people enter the room. It was his nephew Marcus. And the other had to be his sister, Glenda.

“She takes your breath away, doesn’t she Mark? You haven’t seen her for how long?” Jackie asked. Mark never answered as he came close to the young woman standing next to her brother, as they prepared the table.

“My God! She looks just like the splitting image of her mother.” Mark walked upon her and looked closer into her face.

“Yeah she does. And has the same heart, too!” Jackie injected. Mark continued to look at his niece. A slight smile passed over his face.

“But isn’t it true, when your sister and her husband were killed you turned your back on her children. And Glenn took the children in, not wanting to lose them?” She asked as he listen to the conversation between the siblings.

Mark listen as his niece and nephew began a conversation.

“So Uncle Mark was very mean to you as usual.” The girl said as she put something on the table. Marcus acknowledged the question.

“Every chance I get. I go stand near his house and watch him as he leave or come home. He look so much like Uncle Glenn! I wish I had him near. Marcus! Why doesn’t he want us?” She said as she began to cry. Her brother took her in his arms, holding her tight. Glenn looked on, shaking his head at his brother’s action.

Part 7

Mark watched as his niece began to wipe the tears from her eyes. She straighten up and told her brother she was okay. He smiled and kissed her on the forehead, leaving the room.

Mark walked over to her and rubbed her cheek softly with the back of his hand. Instantly she put her hand to her face feeling where his hand had just left, searching the room for who had just touched her.

“What? She felt my hand on her face?” Mark asked as he walked once again up to his niece.

Yes MARK! She felt your love you allow to flow into her. See Mark! Even you can be human at times.” Jackie said with sarcasm. Mark gave her a angry look.

“Oh Listen Mark! You’re going to miss the best part of this all! Then we must go! There is one more place we must visit!” She said as she pointed Mark in the direction of the conversation coming from Glenn and Elaine. Tina had left her mother’s lap and hobbled over to Glenda.

“So Glenn! How do you think he will take it when we tell him we’re secretly married.” Elaine turned to Glenn.

“Not well I’m sorry to say!” He Glenn rubbed Elaine’s face with his hand.

“WHAT?? They’re married. And they didn’t let me know. I knew something was going on wit those two. I will disown him and fire her.” He finsihed before Jackie shhhh’d him.

“Listen!” She moved him in closer to the scene as the niece and nephew came to sit with them.

“Well we wanted you two to know! You’re going to be cousins in the spring. And Tina is going to be a big sister.” Glenn announced causing hugs and kisses to go around.

‘What? A baby? How long have they been married to have a baby on the way? Oh! Now I see why he married her, she was knocked up!” mar k began to laugh at his brother’s chivalry.

“You are truly a jackass! Do you think she would have married him for that reason alone? They were married last summer Mr. know-it-all! Now count your months and see where does that bring you?? She snapped at him for his arrogance. Mark shut up quickly as he realized the marriage was real. Nothing making them married but pure love for each other.

“Glenn has it all! He worked so hard to keep everyone together. While you.....I don’t even want to talk about that now. But this joy will not last! Little Tina will never see her sibling. Her days are numbered.” Jackie said as she walked to the corner of the room.

“Wait! What do you mean her days are numbered?” Mark walked over to Jackie as he stared at little Tina playing on the floor with her knew doll.

“There is this specialist who can help her!! But with her and Glenn’s assets...they can’t afford him. So, little Tina will soon be in a more peaceful place.” She said sadly.

“But if the specialist can help her...we need to get him here.” Mark pleaded to Jackie.

“WE, Mark? As in you and them! You mean you are now connecting them to you?” Jackie folded her arms and l snapping her head around to looked at Mark.

“Well for the child’s sake. Can’t have Elaine unhappy! She would screw up my company in a depression.” Mark clarified for Jackie. She just smiled a shook her head.

Let’s go! We have this quick stop before I leave you to your destiny.” She said as she snapped her fingers twice and waved her hand. Mark took one last glance at his estranged family. His heart began to ache.

When the cloud disappeared. Mark recognized the room he was in. He had been in this room many times with Cathy. He looked to the bed they had shared some intimate moments. he stiffened when he noticed the bed was covered with three large suitcases and a carrying case. The suitcases were almost full of clothes.

he turned as he saw a moment from out of the corner of his eye. It was Cathy. She was coming out of the bathroom with some of her toiletries, she put in the carrying case.

“What is she doing?” Mark asked as he walked over to the bed to stand next to Cathy.

“What does it look like? It looks like a certain lady has had enough of a certain man who has taken he for granted for the last time.” Jackie injected.

“NO! She can’t leave me!” Mark exclaimed.

He looked in her face and saw she had been crying and drinking. Because of him. he had taken her love for granted. He felt no matter whatever he said or did, she would always be there. She had left before, but never town.

“Wait! You said if I let my love flow, they could fell it!” Mark asked Jackie as he continued to stare at Cathy.

“Only if their opened to you! And sorry to say this! But girlfriend has closed you out of her life forever.” She informed him.

‘NO! I have to get to her! I have to make her understand she is to me. Cathy baby. please don’t leave me. I’ve been a fool. Please don’t go baby! Please, please....Mark fell to the ground holding his head.

Jackie felt for Mark......he was his own worst enemy. She snapped her fingers twice and waved her hand...a cloud engulfed them. The were transported.

Part 8

“No! She can’t leave me! She just can’t ! I love her too much! I’ve been a fool! Please let me touch her!” He pleaded opening his eyes to find himself back in his room on his bed.

“What? I’m back in my room. Good! I got to get to Cathy before she leaves me forever!” He said as he scrambled out of bed, heading for the bedroom door. And stopped suddenly when he heard a noise coming from the other side.

Mark heard the sound of a bell tolling three times. As the sound came closer to his door. And then the door slowly creaked opened, the lights suddenly dimmed and in enter a hooded man in a long black robe, standing as tall as Mark’s near seven feet. He seemed to float on air as he came towards Mark. He stepped back from the advance of the man, who stopped suddenly.

He pointed to the door he had just come in from. Mark looked at his pointed finger and followed it to the opened door. And then turned to look at the Hood man, he assume he was the Spirit of his Christmas Future.

“Before we go to visit my Christmas Future. Answer me this one question. These things I have been shown! Can they be changed if I change? Or are everything I have seen to come to pass regardless. Please Spirit tell me what I need to know!” Mark pleaded with he Spirit, who said nothing, just continued to point to the door.

Mark looked at the Spirit and saw nothing was going to reveal to him. So he walked over to the door and with one glance at the Spirit, he walked through.

On the other side of the door, he found himself in a living room with Glenn and Elaine sitting on the couch, holding each other! They were dressed in black. She held in her hand, the little doll he remembered with Little Tina was playing. He walked close to bend down next to his brother as he listen to the conversation.

“Well my love! She won’t be suffering now. She is at peace now!” Glenn said as he broke down and cried. Elaine joined him as they held each other closer, allowing themselves to grieve.

Mark laid his hand on his brother’s shoulder, giving it a squeeze. Glenn slightly flinched in response to his touch. Good he thought. He didn’t shut me out. Then he turned to the Spirit!

“This can’t happened. Little Tina mustn’t die. There has to be something done. Tell me there is something that can be done?” Mark asked.

The Spirit said nothing, just waved his hand the were in another room Enter the front door was an old beaten down woman, hair a mess and clothes ragged. She sat a bag of groceries down on the table. A man entered the room from the other room, coming over to her and the table the bag sat on.

She slowly retreated from his advances. It appeared she was very afraid of this man, who wore no shirt and pants hanging off his hips. He was medium built, about a little over six feet. And he looked like he hadn’t shave in a few days. He reached in the bag for something.

“Bitch! You better not forgot my beer.” He hollered at the woman, as he pulled out the six pack.

Then looked at it and back at the woman as a rage came over his face. She pulled the hair back from her face as she seemed to get ready to plead her case.

“I told you a twelve pack! What is this?” He hollered at her. Mark looked at her intensely. There was something familiar about this woman. Someone he knew no doubt or they wouldn’t be here. But who could she be.

“I didn’t have enough to get your beer and food too! I just budget to get both your beer and food!” She explained as she moved backwards as he approached her.

“Her voice.......it sounds so familiar!” He said, as he realized who she was, as her face came into full view as she backed into the wall under the light.

“Cathy!” He called to her as he saw the man began to pummeled her with his fist!

Mark ran to her aide and began to swing at the man, his fist swung through him as she saw her go to the ground and the man began kicking her.

Now reality hit home! There was nothing he could do here, he turned away from the onslaught of the man on his beloved Cathy. Who didn’t deserve to for her life to come to this.

“Please Spirit! Take me away from this place. I can’t stand this any longer!” he pleaded with the Spirit. He nodded and with a wave of his hand they were transported to a room.

Part 9

Mark looked up to see they were back in his room! He watched as his clothes seemed to be covering the bed. The housekeeper was leaving the room as Glenn stood in the midst looking the room over. He had apparently been crying. Oh yes Mark thought. Little Tina.

Glenn reached in his coat and pull out a picture of Mark and began staring at it. He went to sit in front of the unit fireplace, knowing this was Mark’s favorite place to be when he was up here. He got up from the chair, sat Mark’s picture there and left the room. Mark watched very carefully.

The Spirit waved his hand once again. Mark found himself in a cemetery. He feared he was going to witness little Tina’s funeral. But as he watched, only two cars made their way to where he stood. The limo and hearse. Glenn stepped out of the limo. No one else. The two attendants wheeled the coffin up to the funeral site where only the Minister waited.

The Minister completed the service and walked over to Glenn, shaking his hand and spurting words of encouragement. Glenn said a few words and left to the graved site.

Mark watched as Glenn left in the limo. The Spirit pointed for Mark to go look at the headstone. Mark was reluctant.

“Oh Spirit! Please tell me these things I see will not come to pass if I change! Please tell me this! The Spirit continue to point to the headstone., coming towards Mark!

“No! All that I have seen has to change! For all sakes! I will change! I will do whatever it takes to make things better for those who love me. And I love! You hear me Spirit! There! I said it! I love them...all of them! And I will show them everyday of their lives how much I love them. No more taking anything for granted!” Mark hollered as the Spirit backed him into the headstone. Mark turned to see his name engraved on it! He jumped back from it. He looked at the Spirit standing there and grabbed him!

“I will not end like this! You hear me! You and your Christmas past and present can take it and shove it! I will not end like this!” He hollered as he snatched the hood from the Spirit’s face. Mark gasped as he stared into the face of himself, smiling back at him wickedly! As he rolled his eyes up into his head. Laughing this demonic laugh.

“No! No! Go away from me! You hear me! Yes you are that evil part of me that will surface no more! So you go evilly into the future and find some other poor sucker to torture! For this night I have won! I have won! Go from me, NOW!!” Mark yelled with everything within him!!! The Spirit laughed one more time, waved his hand and Mark found himself transported back to his room!

Mark felt himself all over! yes he was awake! he ran to the window and raising it up saw a little girl skating down the street! He hollered to her.

“Hey little girl! What day is this?” He asked her.

“Geez, Mister! Everyone knows today is Christmas.” She hollered up to him and continued to skate down the street.

“Yes Yes! I made it! I made it! Now to catch Cathy!” He ran to the phone and called. The phone rung and rung! No one answered.

Mark hung the phone up. She was gone! And he didn’t know where she was going or to what airline she was taking! He walked over to his chair and sat down defeated. He had lost his one true love forever.

Then he thought about the vision of the future! His heart sunk! No Cathy no! He couldn’t allow her to end up in that type of life.

Part 10

Mark sat in his chair in front to his fireplace, watching the flames as they licked the logs. His thoughts went to the vision shown to him of the abusive slum life Cathy had come to live in. He couldn’t let that happened.

If he only new the flight number and airline she was taking. He could rush down there and stop her from making the biggest mistake of her life. He hung his head, shaking it from side to side.

This was all his fault. If he had only not been so Bah Humbug about Christmas at least, she may not had shut him out of her heart. He just sat there deep in his thoughts.

RING! RING!

He never heard the phone he was so into his sorrow. Suddenly, a knock at his door. He didn’t hear it the first time it was so faint! But it hit a little louder from before and a voice accompanied this one. It was the housekeeper, Sadie! Mark raised his head up lazily and answered her.

“Yes, Sadie! What is it you want?” Mark asked.

“The phone, Sir! Some one said they needed to talk to you! Very important they said, Sir!” She hollered from the other side of the door.

“Okay Sadie! Thank you! I will get it from here!” He said as he went over to the phone!

Outside the door, a confused Sadie walked away from the door with backwards glances, wondering who was that man behind her Master’s door and what did he do with him!

“Yes!” Mark answered the phone.

“Hello! I don’t know if you remember me! But I’m Cathy Mom! We met briefly in passing when I was there this summer!” She explained to Mark.

“Oh yes, yes! Mrs. Laws! Yes I remember you! How have you been?” He replied.

“Oh just wonderful! And you?” She asked

“Just wonderful, Mrs. Laws! Just wonderful!” He said as he thought back on his night of visions.

“That’s good to hear, Mark! VERY good to hear! But I won’t keep you! The reason I called! Cathy is on her way here to Arizona! I tried calling her apartment, but I guess she has already left for the airport. But, maybe you can help! She said she was leaving on the......let’s see......yes here! Delta flight 99 @ 10 am! Does that sound about right! I don’t want her sitting and waiting and I forgot her arrival time!” She informed Mark. Mark was busy writing down the information, grinning from cheek to cheek! Thanking all the powers that be for bringing him such luck.

“Okay Mrs. Laws! It sounds about right to me! And I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas!” Mark boomed into the phone hardly able to contain himself.

‘Oh you too Mark! Maybe next time you will come with Cathy! I would love to have you!” She said to him.

“Mrs. Laws! I will make that a PROMISE to you! You take care until then, bye!” Mark said, as he began throwing off clothes and reaching for fresh ones.

“Oh good! Until then! Take care honey! Bye!” Mrs. Laws hung the phone up!

Mark had just put on his shirt and was going out the bedroom door as he was buttoning it up. He was downstairs as he fasten his pants! And he was out the door putting on his coat and hat as he hailed down a taxi!

Sadie was standing in the doorway of the kitchen when she heard him running down the stairs. And a big man like that makes the house shake. She came out to see what was going on, when she saw him fastening his clothes, grabbing for his coat and hat, running out the door.

Where’s the fire, she thought as she came to the front door looking at him in the middle of the street flagging down a cab.

“Master’s lost his mind!” She thought as the cab came to a screeching halt and Mark jumped in heading for the airport. Hoping he would make it in time to save the only woman he would ever love. She was his perfect match.

Part 11

Mark was so anxious as the cab went down the road. He looked at his watch. Only minutes before her flight leaves. He asked the cabbie a couple of times if he could make this thing go any faster. He replied, only if it could fly! Mark sat back in his seat giving the man a dirty look.

Finally up ahead he could see the top of the airport building. The traffic was moving slow in this area. Mark frustrated, handed the man some money, wished him a Merry Christmas and jumped put the car running down to the airport.

The cabbie looked at Mark shaking his head. And though, he really need to get laid to release that pent up frustration. But let out a yahooooo! When he saw how much money Mark had given him. “GOD BLESS YOU!” The man hollered with his head stuck out the window at a fast disappearing Mark.

Mark looked at his watched as he made it to the airport. He parted the crowd as he moved quickly through it, excusing himself. Of course they wouldn’t mind letting him through.

He was heading for the Delta waiting room, he knew this airport well. He looked up at the board to see if they were boarding yet. No! He still had a few minutes. He rushed to the door! He scanned the room, finding for who he was looking. There she sat, looking at a magazine, head lowered and shades in place on her face. Covering a night of drinking and crying.

Mark spotted a seat directly behind her facing the other way. He slowly made his way to it hoping she would not se his big self sneaking in on her. Many of the customers watched as he tiptoed to the seat. Mark took the seat, giving the people a quick smile and nod of the head.

“You know! Running away from your problems don’t solve them. They just create bigger ones!” Mark started, disguising his voice, turning his head slightly in her direction so she could hear what he was saying! She turned her head partially, so her ear was facing him, as she looked straight ahead.

“Excuse me! Were you talking to me?” She asked.

“Yes! I’m talking to you!” He answered.

“How would you know I’m running from something?” She asked as she now turned halfway in her seat.

“I know you are running away from someone who ahs been the biggest jackass ever born and who now realizes this, hoping you could find it in your heart to forgive him one more time. And he promises if you did, you would never, ever regret it.” Mark pleaded his case, as he watch her slowly turn around in her seat to stare in his dark green eyes.

“Mark! Is that really you?” She said as she tried to figure out if she was daydreaming or if this was real. Mark stood and came to stand in front of her getting down on bended knee. The people in the room started to look up from what they were doing to watch Mark on his knees.

“Cathy! Can you ever forgive me for taking your love for granted?” Mark asked with such sincere.

Cathy looked in his eyes. Yes, there was something about this man who stood was kneeled down n front of her. And definitely not the man she knew.

“Mark! Is this really you?” She repeated herself too overwhelmed at this new Mark!

“Yes my darling Cathy! It’s me!” He said as he pulled her into his arms holding her dearly. She began to allow the tears to form in her eyes as she felt such love flowing form him into her. This was a side of his she had never experience. Even in their sex.

“This is the man you will be spending the rest of your life with! Do you think you can handle that?“ Cathy looked at him very surprise at the comment.

“Mark! What are you saying?” She asked as she stared once again in his eyes confused.

“Cathy! Will you become my wife? As fast as we can make the arrangements. I don’t want to spend another moment without you being my wife!” He asked. Cathy wrapped her arms around his neck.

“YES! YES! YES!” She hollered, as the people in the room began applauding the scene they had just witness.

Mark came to his feet with her still hanging on and he holding her close to him, tilted her head back, gazed into her eyes lovingly, and allowed their lips to touch, as he kissed her deeply.

The crowd gave them a standing ovation, as they were oblivious to anyone but the embrace and passionate kiss they were sharing.

Joy stood by the phone booth watching her brother make the first correction towards mending his life. Later, Mark will find out, Mrs. Laws never called him. Because she was out of the country and had no idea her daughter was coming home. He will wonder who made the call.

Part 12

Mark and Cathy drove up to the house he knew about, but never came to visit. It was Glenn’s old home where he raised his sister Joy’s two children. Once they had finish up with school and acquired jobs! he let them stay in the house as he came to live with Mark! Not wanting his brother to be alone.

Mark thought on this! Glenn was always giving! And he never gave enough! But now that will all change. His one mistake corrected. The next will be much harder.

He had dug these wounds too deep to expect anything from this visit. He stood there in front of the house, looked down at Cathy, took a deep breath, as she gave his hand a gentle squeeze as support for his endeavor.

They walked up the couple of steps that seemed like a flight of stairs. He came to the door, tilted his head back closing his eyes. Then knocked at the door. He heard someone coming, as they were talking to someone inside.

“Yes.........” She started and stopped when she looked into the eyes of the man standing at her door. Glenda was dumbfounded. She had wished for this day so many times. And now, here it was and all she could do was stand there and gawk.

“Glenda?” He was able to get out as he swallowed hard.

“Yes!” She said with pleading eyes.

“Glenda! May I come into your home?” He asked, more nervous than he was to ask Cathy to marry him.

“Oh yes, yes! Please forgive my rudeness!” She said as she stepped back opening the door wider and beckoning them to come in.

Mark led Cathy in and stopped in front of his niece, taking the back of his hand and running in down the side of her face.

“No my lovely niece. It is I who ask your forgiveness, for being such a fool. Can you find it in your heart to forgive me?” He asked as he cupped her chin in his hand.

Glenda began to cry, Mark took her in his arms holding her close to him, stoking her hair with his hand, whispering soothing words to calm her down. As he held her tightly he began to let the tears form in his own eyes, thinking of his sister Joy. In his heart he made her a promise to make up to her with her children.

Part 13

Mark was holding Glenda tight when in walks his nephew Marcus! He stopped as he saw his uncle holding his sister. He could see she was crying. And to his surprise, his uncle’s eyes weren’t so dry either.

“What is going on here?” Marcus asked as he came closer to them. Mark released Glenda from his hold, but held her with one arm wrapped around her shoulder as he addressed Marcus.

“Marcus! I have asked your sister’s forgiveness for the fool I have been. And now I’m asking the same of you!” Mark said as he looked at the nephew no more than yesterday had told him he didn’t acknowledge him as family. Marcus was speechless! Finally regaining his thoughts and a look from his sister, answered.

“Yes! Uncle Mark! I forgive you! Will you be staying for Christmas with your family?” Marcus asked, putting the emphasis on ‘Family’. Mark looked at his nephew, as Marcus gave him a sly look. Mark understood what he was saying and nodded his head in agreement.

“I would more than be happy to join my family. ALL of you, for Christmas! And also, let me introduce to you Cathy, my soon to be wife . And I emphasize, soon!” Mark said as he took Cathy hand and brought her close to him wrapping his arm around her shoulder.

“Cathy, my sister Joy’s children, Marcus and Glenda! Marcus and Glenda, your new Aunt to be, Cathy!” Cathy walked over to Marcus and Glenda, extending her hands to shake theirs, Glenda took her in her arms welcoming her into the newly reunited family.

“Move back Glenda, give her some room, let her breath!” Marcus said to his sister, pulling her away from Cathy’s embrace and receiving an gentle slap on his arm from Glenda, as she walked over to her uncle, who wrapped an arm around her shoulder, bringing her to him, laughing at their antics.

“Welcome to our humble family, Aunt Cathy!” Marcus said as he took her hand in his and lifted it to his lips, planting a wet one on it. Mark gave him a warning look as Glenda shook her head in disgust at his failed attempt to be chivalrous. They all laughed merrily. Mark felt so good inside, things were going as hoped.

“Hey! What’s so funny in here?” A voice came from the living room. Everyone grew silent as the turned to look at Glenn and Elaine standing there, looking at the group.

Mark eyes narrowed at he looked at he stared into his brother’s eyes, then turned his glare upon Elaine. The two who had betrayed him by secretly marrying and keeping it from him so long. And not to mention, the new child on the way!

Glenn observed his brother closely. He knew from his look, he knew. How, he didn’t know. But he knew he knew of their deception. He pulled Elaine close to him as his brother approached. Glenda went to stop him, but Cathy and Marcus pulled her back.

If the family is to bond, all old issues needed to be resolved. Only the two patriarchs of the family, together could bind this family, by settling things between themselves. All eyes were on the scene ready to unfold. This would be the true test, if Mark had truly changed his ways or not.

Part 14

Glenn watched as His bother came up to him and Elaine. He looked at his Elaine and his gaze soften. Glenn became very confused, as his brother turned from looking at her to him.

“Merry Christmas, brother! And to your lovely with, Elaine!” He said as he turned to her. Glenn looked at his brother quizzically. Wondering, who is this man and what did he do with his brother?

“Okay! What did I miss here?” Glenn asked as he continue to stare at this man looking just like his brother, but clearly not acting like it.

“Uncle Glenn, Uncle Mark is here asking for our forgiveness and to reunite the family.” Glenda came up to her uncle, putting her arm around his waist, giving an pleading look. Glenn squeezed her gently, as to comfort her. Then he looked to his brother.

“Yes, Glenn! I need to ask your forgiveness for not being there when you took on the job of raising our sister’s children. I was so stubborn.. bullheaded...” Mark stared up at Glenn.

“Oh, did you want me to say...no Mark you weren’t! Well, no Mark...you were! But that’s should be one more thing to leave in the past! What is important is we are here and now, together.” Glenn and Mark stared at each other momentarily and embraced. Finally healing old wounds.

Everyone looked on as tears formed and fell from eyes. Marcus tried to hide his as his sister came to his side holding him. Then Mark turned to Elaine. His finally task. And maybe the true biggest one.

“Elaine, I owe you an apology for being so insensitive to your needs. You were a single mom, with an ill child and I turned a deaf ear to your wants. Never again! Now I want you and Glenn to listen to me!” He Mark stared.

“ I spoke with the specialist, who I must inform you wasn’t to please with being bugged on Christmas morning, but soon changed the tune when I told him who I was and what I WANTED. Well, after the New Years. You too will be going to London, he will see Tina. And you two can have your postponed Honeymoon.” Mark said to them.

Elaine almost fainted when she heard all Mark had said. Glenn stared at this new Mark speechless. Glenda and Marcus clung to each other. As Cathy looked at Mark with such love. She knew he had this in him. But never quite knew how to bring it out of him. Well, she thanked whoever for bringing the Mark she knew out.

“Oh thank you, Sir!“ Elaine ran over to mark and swung her arms around his neck, thanking him for help saving her little Tina’s life. Mark embrace her as his face turned bet color never before showing such affection to her ever as he could recall. Elaine realizing what she was doing released him quickly. Mark brought her back to him

“My dear sister-in-law. I am no more Sir. Mark is my name. And we will not have a problem with showing any affection, right everyone?’ Mark said turning to all.

“Right!” They all answered in unison.

“And I will be looking forward to being the new Uncle in the summer!” Mark said as he watched her go over to Glenn and Cathy came to stand beside him. Glenn and Elaine glanced at teach other momentarily and back at Mark wondering how did he do that. Mark just laughed.

“Glenn and Elaine! Cathy and I are getting married. Very soon! Like tomorrow if I had my way!” He said as Elaine and Cathy laughed and hugged each other.

“Well it’s about time! I thought you were going to let her get away.” Glenn walked over to his brother giving him a nice slap on the back.

“I almost did brother. I almost did!” Mark said going suddenly silent, as his mind drifted back to the vision of her life without him. Mark came back when he saw Little Tina coming in with her new doll in a stroller.

“Hello Tina!” Mark said to her as she came up to him with her doll and stroller.

“Hi Uncle Mark! Mommy said you are my Uncle now! Are you?” She asked, with a worried look on her face. Tina has always liked Mark. She would always find herself where he was whenever Elaine would have to bring her with her to work.

“Yes Tina! I’m your Uncle Mark.” He picked her up into his arms, hugging her as she giggled. Everyone stared for the living room. Mark held Tina, carrying her stroller behind them.

Later, Mark and Glenn sat in chairs next to each other, as they watched their family moving about the house as each did something differently. Both contented.

“This will be the most memorable Christmas of all! Every thing is complete now!” Mark said, still watching the family he almost lost forever.

“Yes, brother. Now that you are here! Only thing missing is Joy!” Glenn said with some sadness.

Mark looked over in a corner of the room instinctively. There he saw his sister Joy, smiling at him proudly, as she turned to look at her family.

“Oh! I don’t know, little brother. I think she will always be somewhere, watching us, making sure we stay in line!” Mark said, she turned and threw him a kiss, while Mark gave her a wink!