Thomas stepped into Sholomoh’s office and picked up the landline. After a few rings, Shoshana answered.

  Shoshana: “Okay… I don’t know whether to be mad or grateful. I’m starting to think I didn’t think this through.”

  Thomas: “I’m sorry.”

  Shoshana: “Don’t start apologizing. I set this up. I told her you could date—I’m sure she didn’t tell you that. The only thing I get to be mad about is that she got my kiss. I wanted to be there. It’s funny being on the other side… and it helps me understand why you did what you did.”

  She exhaled.

  Shoshana: “She did say that the first time she tried to kiss you, you pulled back. Then you made sure she didn’t feel bad. So… the question I have is: where are we?”

  Thomas: “We’re courting. And I think we’re committed—eventually—to marriage, sometime in the future. But I should warn you… if you ever decide it won’t work out, Veronica’s dad has promised a shotgun wedding.”

  Shoshana: “No he didn’t.”

  Thomas: “Once, I’d laugh it off. But he keeps repeating it. If he didn’t love you, I think he’d actually follow through. You know he’s a bibliophile—I guess he sees the same thing in me.”

  He grinned, leaning back in the chair.

  Thomas: “Guess what? I got him to promise box seats to The Nutcracker. He bet Veronica there was no way I could get more books on cricket ordered.”

  Shoshana: “Let me guess—you asked for Jonathan’s number, called him, and told him the plan. And Jonathan—being Jonathan—ordered the books for his kids because he wants them to learn cricket. You saw a chance to bring the youth group together, maybe add two new members… while giving a dad a day to play cricket.”

  Thomas: “Guilty. I’m just glad I waited to call until Daniel was home.”

  There was a soft pause.

  Shoshana: “I’m missing you.”

  If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

  Thomas: “I want you here too. But let me ask you something… what are you doing to be ready for when we can be together again?”

  Shoshana: “You’re not supposed to be that mature. Like what?”

  Thomas: “I think your brother said something about tikkun olam—the idea that we’re here to help repair the world. When we first met… you came over to me to help me out. You have no idea what that meant to me. You were so kind, so friendly. I couldn’t believe someone like you would pay attention to me. That desire you had—to help—made my life better.”

  Silence. Warm, thoughtful.

  Shoshana: “I… didn’t think about the impact it had on you. I see it now, but I didn’t think about it then.”

  Thomas: “This cricket game I’m setting up—it isn’t about me. It’s about the youth group. I’m just giving them an opportunity to serve. What do you think?”

  Shoshana: “Veronica said her mom calls you trouble. Do I need to start looking for opportunities to do good? Like… help or assist them?”

  Thomas: “You do have your dad to ask for guidance.”

  Shoshana: “What did I do to deserve you?”

  Thomas: “You followed your instincts. You came over and helped me. And you kept doing it. Just remember—I’m here. If you need help scheming good deeds, call me. I don’t know exactly where we’re being led… but I want you by my side. If I can’t have you… then Veronica. But it’s you I’m hoping for.”

  There was a shaky breath on the line.

  Shoshana: “My dad just walked in. I need to hang up before I start crying in front of him.”

  A new voice entered—steady, amused.

  David: “Before you call in your dad, I heard that last part. This must have been some week. I’ve never heard anyone your age express those ideas the way you just did. Saying I’m impressed feels redundant.”

  He continued, gently.

  David: “My mom told me what happened. You got home to find Veronica in distress. Then you were honest about things I know I never would have admitted at your age. And then—if I have it right—you spotted a way to help a man teach his boys cricket. You saw an opportunity to help the youth grow. And I’m guessing you’ll let Jonathan lead and then sit back thinking about how you could have done more.”

  Thomas: “So… if I can help, I will. Maybe help Jonathan get the last shekel he needs. Help others move up. Then Jonathan and I can start looking for more opportunities to serve.”

  A voice called from across the room:

  Sholomoh: “Put it on speaker.”

  David: “Dad? You there?”

  Sholomoh: “How far has he caught you up on his actions this week? If I had to sum it up: he comforted a friend, faced some demons, helped a stranger, then looked for ways to help his friend’s sons. He taught a friend that dating can be fun, not terrifying. Bought Nutcracker tickets for a girl. And helped my granddaughter learn about service. Yes. A busy week.”

  David: “I can say I’m happy with what’s going on.”

  Sholomoh: “And he keeps up his grades. I think he enjoys making us look bad.”

  Thomas: “I’d love to respond… but I have no idea how.”

  David’s tone shifted—serious, respectful.

  David: “Okay. You know we’ve said this before. But you were given the true name of the organization. That’s a sign of trust—and it moves you into a new stage. Understand: as far as I know, Jonathan hasn’t received the name. He might not for a while. So you must not hint at it.”

  He continued:

  David: “I heard you’re invited to Tuesday dinner. Go. It will be a while before you’re a full member of this organization. But this stage matters—getting to know the local members. We just call it the lodge.”

  A breath.

  David: “Next time you’ll be recognized for your deeds, and eventually you’ll present your understanding of Summa Theologica.”

  Then:

  David: “I also want to explain something. You may not grasp all the details yet, but you will. Look up the history of mutual benefit societies. There are all kinds of organizations—fraternal orders, service clubs, even criminal groups. But we are a mutual benefit society. You’ve been accepted because of your actions, your service. To understand why we work—and why many fail—you’ll need to access the private library. Help Veronica first, then get the books on mutual benefit societies.”

  Sholomoh: “I think that’s enough for now. I just want to say—I’m proud of you. We’re glad you’re part of our lives. Know that this family loves you.”