6:14 p.m. Passion Ministry

Sheila patted Maggie’s arm. “Sorry, Maggs. It’s just that Phil seemed so adamant that John was quitting.”

After a lifetime of dedicating herself to men, Sheila was Maggie’s first female friend and she was constantly astounded that this strong, forthright and brilliant woman would find her a worthy confidante. Maggie struggled with the ebbs and flows of bosom friendship. Terrified of the depths of intimate revelations expected between best friends. When confronted with an emotional issue, she tended to collapse inward.

“When’ll we see?” asked a petite blonde, walking by on the arm of a young man. Her eyes were focused on John’s wrists.

“Oh no,” Sheila groaned. “Newbies...wanting proof.”

“They’re just bandages, Eddy,” the blonde continued. She pulled Eddy toward John. “Anyone could stain a few bandages. How’d we know it’s real?”

The last phrase rose above the din. Echoed in the huge room. There was a collective pause.
Over the couple’s shoulder, Maggie saw the back of John’s head and, in increasing trepidation, watched as he spun. Strode in their direction.

“Quiet, Angie!” Eddy hissed.

Maggie hurried after them, creating a stir. Guests whispered and shifted position to see and hear what was going on. Maggie’s eyes found Oscar.

He shot her a startled glance, then whispered into his headset. The stage lights came up like the rising sun.

“Well, I don’t care what they say about faith,” Angie whined. “I wanna see blood.”

“John!” Maggie called, wading against the human tide.

Oscar dropped his head. Charged, tossing aside members of the flock as though they were fleece. He thundered toward the blonde.

“Blood!” the Apostle whispered in Angie’s ear.

She shrieked. Turned. Stumbled into Eddie’s arms. Oscar arrived, stopping between John and the couple.

“John!” Maggie grabbed her lover’s tunic. “Please, don’t—

“Blood!” John shouted, arms over his head.

All eyes stared at the man they revered, for whom they had paid thousands to see.
John hesitated. Dropped his arms. Maggie squeezed his hand and he forced a smile at the frightened young woman. She remained dazed, so John spoke to the crowd. “Want to see blood?” he asked. “What am I, folks? Some freak show?” He grinned, to show them that everything was fine.

Angie giggled. A few people chuckled.

John smiled again. This time, it lit up his eyes. He slowly removed his dressings. His fans gaped. Stunned.

“Of course, you want to witness my blood. My divine gift.” He raised bleeding wrists. “We are all truly blessed by God.”