The Fallen Angel

The duo went home tired and exhausted. Jasmine just grabbed something small from her kitchen and went to bed. Gabriel hadn’t said much to her on the ride back. His face was distant as he thought about all the things he learned in a night about his human kin. A bigger plot seemed to be unfolding and somehow Gabriel knew the journey wouldn’t be easy on him, but especially not on Jasmine.

She woke to a major headache that felt as if a freight train had hit her. Sometimes the side effects of probing one’s mind took a toll on her body and she would wake with bad headaches every now and then. The pounding in her head shut out everything else. Sounds and sunlight nearly blinded her. Holding her head and her eyes, she staggered out of bed and into her bathroom where she used her hands to feel around for the counter. Without noticing her hands touched what felt like a hard muscled back and her eyes bucked open, blurred at first, but cleared to see a naked Gabriel fresh out of the shower, his wet hair matted to frame his face.

She yelped and backed away, hitting the door closed and locking them both inside when she wanted to escape. Again she was not used to anyone being in the house with her. Gabriel grabbed her hand before she fell over with quick speed. Luckily for her he was wrapped in a towel, but again her body was coming to life with sinful thoughts. Gabriel had to leave.

“Good morning Jasmine. Are you alright?” He asked with such concern it bothered her for some reason.

“Yes. I just need my medicine. I should’ve knocked I’m sorry.” She replied quickly.

“Where is it? I will get it for you.”

She pointed to the mirror and Gabriel opened it quickly grabbing an empty pill bottle. “Shit.” She cursed, holding her head then her mouth. “I’m sorry.” She remembered she was in the presence of an angel. Gabriel reached for her hand to move it from her face, but she yanked away not wanting him to touch her.

“I feel you are distressed Jasmine. I can help you.” He waited for her to respond, not reaching for her or pressuring her. She relaxed and removed her hand from her face. He grabbed her hands and the warmth in his palm engulfed her entire body like a blanket. The feeling of safety was something she desperately wanted to cling to. He very gently lifted both her hands to her temple.

“What are you doing?” She asked, feeling completely overwhelmed.

“You healed Debra Jenkins who was dying remember? You should be able to heal yourself. Just focus.” She heard him, but her eyes started to dart to his hard rock abs and she couldn’t help but follow a drop of water that disappeared behind the towel. “Jasmine?” Her eyes darted to his then as he looked amused at her clearly aroused state. “You’re not focusing.”

She removed herself from between him and the wall trying to gain some air. “I will be able to if you put on some clothes.”

Gabriel looked worried then. “I used a towel this time to cover myself. Did I not do it right?” He started to undo the towel until Jasmine quickly stopped him.

“No. Just…” She sighed feeling the throbbing pain in her temple steadily increase. She held her head again causing Gabriel to worry.

“You have to focus.” He repeated.

She tried, slowly rubbing her temple and remembering how she felt when she held Mrs. Jenkins hand. It was mostly her determination to prove Gabriel wrong at the time and that was the first time she had ever done anything like that. Focusing on something she never learned was becoming more of a headache then she liked.

“You can do this.” Gabriel placed his hands on top of her hands again. The warm safety feeling came back and she started to relax and as such her hand started to glow. She could feel the flow of power, that warm fuzzy feeling in her head, finding its way to the throbbing pain, ceasing it immediately. Gabriel smiled as he looked at her through the mirror. “See I told you. I’m rarely wrong.” He replied smugly.

Jasmine turned to amuse him. “You know for an angel you act rather cocky.”

“Cocky?”

“Over confident. There’s something there that makes me want to prove you wrong and works every time.”

“Except now. I am technically right.”

Jasmine held up her pointy finger. “Technically, but you’re wrong. I would’ve never known how to heal myself without you being this cocky angelic humanoid. So I suppose it was a team effort.”

Gabriel smiled again. “Speaking of team effort, what’s on the agenda today? You said we were to wait to confront Ellis. Have you spoken with Xavier today?”

Jasmine sighed, leaning against the counter. “I plan on going to the police station and tell him what we found out so far. Hopefully we can get some answers on the body guard’s end.”

“I thought a lot last night about the situations. None of it is really making sense. I’m not seeing how Lucifer has a role to play in all of this. The Temptress didn’t even know he wasn’t in hell. It doesn’t seem right.” Gabriel replied, crossing his arms.

“She seemed afraid of him being on earth. Maybe she was running from him. In any case, first things first, and that’s saving those girls. We can worry about Lucifer as the mob boss another time.” Jasmine hinted for Gabriel to get out as she shooed him away. “I have to pee.”

Gabriel’s eyes widened and he finally understood as he exited the bathroom. He couldn’t help but smile at their banter. When he first met her she defied him, disobeyed every order he gave her. Despite the frustration he felt then, it seemed so funny to him now. They were becoming some semblance of a team, including Xavier. It felt nice, Gabriel could admit, to be included.

“Jasmine, for what it’s worth I think you are the most stubbornly disobedient human The Almighty ever created.” He paused then admiring her strength and her courage. “But you are the most pure I have seen since my time here.”

“It’s only been a couple of days.” Jasmine argued, from the other side of the door.

“True, but you are placing your own health in harm’s way to save others. You think your gift to be a curse, but you have helped so many, moved so many. How can it not be anything more than a blessing?”

There was silence between them then and the toilet flushed and a couple minutes later after washing her hands, she opened the door. For the first time once Gabriel turned around he saw her. Actually saw her as a man and not human nor angel, but actually saw her. The way her hair was flowing down her shoulders, the tight shirt that clung to her frame, not as slender but her breast and her waist were enticing enough. The boy shorts she wore didn’t help his turning human mind not lust after her.

He had to look away feeling unknown feelings he never experienced. Even if she didn’t realize it even though it was a short period of time, Jasmine was already changing and moving Gabriel. She cleared her throat then as she crossed her arms to hide her nipples from growing hard by looking at him.

“I wouldn’t say it’s all that, but thank you for the compliment.” She turned to gather clothes out her dresser. “Give me ten minutes and we can go get something to eat and then go to the police station.”

Gabriel walked out after nodding to go put on his clothes as he waited for Jasmine to come out. He decided to pick something comfortable, simple sweats and a tee shirt with tennis shoes. Jasmine seemed to have the same idea as she was comfortable too, leggings and a long top with tennis shoes. They both chatted for a moment as they waited for their food at the breakfast place of Jasmine’s choosing. Gabriel was more excited than he should’ve been to have pancakes for the first time.

“So these pancakes are made of just flour, egg, and sugar?” He asked surprisingly interested after taking a sip of his orange juice.

Jasmine could only smile and nod at his enthusiasm. “Fried in a pan topped with anything you like.”

“I have seen such foods before, but I have never thought to eat it. Is there anything in particular you like? Surely you have tried them all.”

“I like waffles better. Not much difference, but the texture. My mom used to make them for me all the time when she was alive.” Jasmine’s eyes darted away from Gabriel as she placed her arm on the table in attempt to shield a wall up once she was uncomfortable about a subject. Gabriel caught on to it and became intrigued by her.

“Janea Peters is in heaven with The Almighty. If this world is as bad as you believe then why do you feel sadness for her? She suffers no more, watches over you every night, can finally find rest after so many years of longing and sadness and worry for you. Why would you feel sad for her?” It was obvious to Jasmine why, but Gabriel didn’t understand his human kin at all, not like he thought.

“I can’t see her anymore, Gabriel. I can’t talk to her. I can’t feel her. The fact that she is in heaven gives me some peace, but she isn’t here with me anymore. Not when I need her.” Jasmine’s voice trailed off and thankfully the food was brought out before her emotions spilled over and her voice started to crack.

“I see.” Was all Gabriel said as he watched Jasmine drink her water. “I apologize if I overstepped. I don’t mean to…”

“No I know. It’s fine. Let’s just eat okay. You were so excited before about the pancakes. I’m dying to see you try them.” She needed to change the subject as she leaned in watching Gabriel use his fork and his knife. The pancakes cut beautifully. The perfect combination of soft and fluffy. Instead of pouring the syrup straight out the small container the waitress brought, Gabriel dipped the pancakes instead and then placed them into his mouth.

He looked at Jasmine as she waited in so much anticipation as to what he thought about it. He chewed it rather awkwardly, swirling it around with his tongue, devouring the unfamiliar flavor and texture. Pleasure signals alerted his brain. Saliva formed in his mouth urging him to eat more. His stomach was forever grateful for it as it growled in response as he swallowed.

“It’s…It’s perfect.” Gabriel said, cutting another piece.

Jasmine smiled, seeing how happy he was and for the first time wishing she could read his mind to know exactly what he was feeling. The thought was washed away though as she ate her food preparing herself before they had to get back to work. “You once said that angels can be recruited because The Almighty doesn’t make them anymore.” Gabriel nodded with his mouth full of food and unable to really talk. “What were you? Were you created or…”

Gabriel stopped chewing his food then. “No. I was…” he paused as if his mind went blank and he couldn’t remember. “I believe I had a life once before this. Memories can get a bit blurred after so many years. I heard as well that once an Angel clips it’s wings to become human they start to lose their memories of the past. What do you humans call it? When you have fragments of the past come forward in your mind after it never happened before.”

Jasmine thought for a moment. “Déjà vu?”

Gabriel nodded. “That sounds like it.”

“My mom used to say all the time that she felt as if she lived this life before now. She believed in reincarnation and the cycle of souls throughout, but being a Christian they don’t believe in it so she never expressed it to anyone.”

“What do you believe?”

Jasmine shrugged as she cut into her waffle. “Being born again in this cold dark and gloomy world seems like a punishment. I’m not sure why anyone would want that if it were a thing.”

“Some humans just can’t accept the fact that they have to let go. I believe a group believes in this. Buddhism and Hinduism.” Gabriel replied taking the last bite of his pancake before taking a sip of his juice.

Jasmine leaned closer to watch his reaction. “I was raised a Christian as most Black Americans are and they don’t believe in Buddha or any other religion for that matter. The only one they believe to be true is the Christianity faith and even that religion has several variations.”

Gabriel frowned at this. “There isn’t a right or wrong religion. From what I gathered all religions lead them to The Almighty, or is supposed to, unless they worship Lucifer, which should still lead them to The Almighty. Lucifer won’t exist without The Almighty.”

Jasmine nodded, agreeing. “I feel the same way. I don’t see how people can say what they believe is right and what others believe is wrong. No one really knows. Buddha is the most peaceful figure. No one has killed in the name of Buddha before…none I am aware of, but plenty have killed in the name of God.”

“I see what you mean though, the path of religion can be such a slippery slope when the average human can’t see as you and some of the others can. You know the truth, but yet you still aren’t sure what you believe. How can you expect the non seers to know what’s truly right and what’s wrong?” Gabriel always asked the right questions that stumped Jasmine completely. He only smiled a little as he stared down at his empty plate. “The pancakes were delicious. I wish I had more of them…” He sighed, placing a hand on his forehead as if ashamed.

Jasmine shook her head, placing some money on top of the bill the waiter brought them. “Later, I promise. For now we have to get to the police station.”

The police station was bustling with movement once Gabriel and Jasmine walked in. It gave Gabriel pause as he recognized the woman talking with Xavier. His hands grabbed on to Jasmine in warning to not walk over yet. A bad feeling started to wash over them both as they just stared at the woman.

“You feel it too?” Jasmine asked, looking around the room. Gabriel only nodded.

“It’s faint, but there is something in the air. I don’t like it. Try to stay close to me.” Gabriel demanded in a whispered tone that only she could hear. As if concerned about another’s feelings, Gabriel released Jasmine’s hand before anyone saw. The affection of his touch meant something way more than he understood.

Xavier walked over then. “There you two are. What took you so long?” he asked, folding his arms staring accusingly at Gabriel.

“We stopped for breakfast. What’s going on?” Jasmine asked. Xavier grabbed both of their arms and pulled them into a dark corner of the police station away from everyone else.

“I have a woman in there claiming Gabriel killed her grandmother.” Xavier whispered low even though no one else was around. “You saw them at church and talked to her grandmother for a moment and later that night early morning she passed away in her sleep. You didn’t right?” Xavier was hoping he wasn’t dealing with an angelic serial killer or something because that was way above his pay grade.

“Maria Griffin was dying of cancer, but never allowed her family to know about it. She didn’t want them to worry I assume, therefore that means the family didn’t know.” Gabriel explained. “I can talk to her if you would like me to.”

“She must be so heartbroken to have suddenly lost her grandmother. She deserves answers.” Jasmine replied to both of them. Xavier and Gabriel looked at each other for a moment.

“Fine, but a little advice. I wouldn’t let her know who you really are. People can’t accept that and the more people you tell, the more attention you attract to the wrong people, understand?” Gabriel nodded solemnly. “Okay. Jasmine and I will go over the case.”

They slowly disbanded Jasmine watching Gabriel sigh and walk towards the granddaughter from over her shoulder worried about him and strangely not wanting to be apart from him, especially with the lingering danger in the air. Xavier led her to his office as she sat down and looked out the door instantly towards Gabriel.

“You seemed to be worried about him.” Xavier noticed.

Jasmine turned her eyes to him first before her head turned, as her legs started to shake. “I just have a bad feeling that’s all.” She told half the truth trying to convince herself mostly she wasn’t concerned about Gabriel and that she didn’t care about him. Xavier clearly wasn’t buying it, but didn’t press her any further.

“This case I believe has everyone a bit rattled. We never really encountered anything that has been this organized and vast. A deacon paying for young girls with gifts, a bouncer who kidnaps them from the club and several other workers for whoever is in charge of it all. This is bigger than just this local office, Jasmine. FBI may get involved.”

“Have you talked with Amelia anymore?” Xavier shook his head. “She told me her dad was the reason they kidnapped her as collateral. He owed Chase Fallon so Chase hired Rolio to kidnap her. Now that we also know the bouncer was in on it that would explain how they were getting away with it.”

Xavier leaned forward then. “The father never told us he owed Chase Fallon. You think perhaps he was involved in the sex trafficking? Paid perhaps this Chase as a contact, like Ellis, Amelia’s father didn’t pay and they took Amelia as payment. She’s the right age of the girls. Chelsea is nothing but nineteen and Bri was just turning eighteen.” Xavier shuffled through some papers to confirm his information.

“I think so. We need to talk to Amelia’s father.” Jasmine concluded. “Anything from the bouncer?”

Xavier shook his head. “He lawyered up and refused to say a word.” He replied. “But there may be a chance to get a warrant to search Ellis Bryant phone records and question him. I have another officer on that.” Jasmine turned to the door again hoping Gabriel was having better luck at comforting the granddaughter. “Hey you alright?”

Jasmine nodded quickly as he grabbed her attention again. Xavier just sighed as he searched through more papers, giving everything he had to her so they could solve the case and make things perhaps go back to how they used to be.

Gabriel walked up to Trisha slowly, not wanting to alarm her, but once she saw his face instant fear pierced her gut and she attacked him, fists blazing into his core, unfortunately it didn’t harm Gabriel at all. Some officers stopped to turn to stop her, but Gabriel held up his hands to stop them.

“What did you do to my grandmother you sick bastard!” She yelled.

“Trisha Griffin…”

She stopped, backing away. “How do you know me?”

Gabriel sighed, wanting to tell her the truth but heeded Xavier’s warning. “I knew your grandmother, Maria.”

“How?” She asked quickly and suspiciously.

“It doesn’t matter.”

“Yes it does.” She replied through clenched teeth. “She was just fine…”

Gabriel shook his head. “She had colon cancer. She had been fighting it for a long time. I’m sorry, Trisha. I know this must be…” Gabriel tried to reach for her to comfort her, but Trisha jerked away, while shaking her head.

“No. You did something to her.” Her mind was completely made up in believing that.

“I’m sorry, but she has gone to heaven to be with The Almighty.” Gabriel looked over to her right side just as tears started to fall from Trisha’s eyes to see Maria there, hugging her granddaughter. Once she touched her Trisha broke down unable to see or feel her guardian angel watching over her. Gabriel, real and steady, held her before she fell on her knees in an outcry that shook the police station. Gabriel’s human heart broke for her and he looked to the office where Jasmine was, wondering did she feel the same pain Trisha was, if not more, at her mother’s passing.

Gabriel could only imagine the pain it must’ve felt like to see a loved one mourn over their lost ones. A flash of a woman crying for him then appeared in his mind as he remembered his own pain from watching as a transparent ghost before ascending to the heavens. He watched his loved ones mourn for him and his brother as he tried to touch them, tried to comfort them, but he couldn’t. Understanding now kicked in as he tried to keep it together himself as he stayed on the floor with Trisha, rocking her until she was able to compose herself.

Jasmine and Xavier exited the office then to see Gabriel talking to the woman, Trisha, who was finally calm even though tears fell from her eyes still. They were both sitting in chairs now and Gabriel was wiping the tears from her face, with tissues, as he spoke. Again, Jasmine felt that warm feeling inside of her, deep down in the coldest parts of her heart where she tried to keep her repressed feelings buried. There beside Trisha was a smaller older woman dressed in white. She was glowing while patting Trisha’s back lovingly. That made Jasmine smile.

“Are you alright now ma’am?” Xavier asked, causing Gabriel to look up at him now as he placed his hand on her shoulder.

Trisha nodded. “Yes. I’m sorry for accusing this man. He didn’t do anything to my grandmother. I was just…I just thought that…”

“It’s fine really. I believe I understand why you thought it was me.” Gabriel replied modestly, patting her hand.

“If there is anything we can do for you please don’t hesitate to ask. I’m so sorry for your loss.” Xavier said as charmingly as possible as he helped the woman up. Gabriel continued to stay seated once they left, allowing Jasmine time to come over and sit in front of him.

“Are you okay?” She asked as he folded his hands together. She placed her hands over his comforting him and causing a warm sensation in his body he couldn’t remember feeling. Jasmine did it without realizing it, but soon removed it slowly to avoid her own feelings for him. Their eyes met and there was sadness in both of their depths, but a spark shone once they looked at each other.

“Why wouldn’t I be?” He replied, curiously, with his face tilting to the side a little.

“That couldn’t have been easy for you.”

“No. It was something I can’t remember feeling before, but it wasn’t a bad feeling. Death can’t be easy, but Trisha is strong like her grandmother.” He paused and patted her knee. “Strong like you.” They shared a brief moment until Xavier walked back in.

“We have our next possible arrest,” Xavier informed. “Pedro France, Amelia’s father.”