Free Third Half by P. R. Garlick Page B

washing.
                  A long time later she returned from the bathroom feeling refreshed in body, if not in spirit.  She was just about to slip beneath the sheets when she realized in all the excitement she had forgotten to stop to get some money from the automatic teller machine down the street.
                  She knew she had to go yet tonight.  She had given the last of her cash to Ronaldo and was certain she was going to need money if she hoped to survive the next few days.  I do deserve a few luxury items.
                  This time when she returned she wasn't as lucky as the last.
                  "Ah, Sister Mary Catherine," she heard the Mother Superior's voice.  Turning, she tried to hide her look of defeat, also the small bottle of floral scented foaming bath oil she had just purchased at the all night market.
                  "Yes, Mother Superior," she nearly whispered, trying not to show her nervousness.
                  "I see you were restless and couldn't sleep."
                  "Yes, I have very much on my mind."
                  "I hope your walk has helped alleviate some of your tensions."
                  "Yes, I think the fresh air helped."
                  "You definitely are in need of some rest!" the Mother said with a smile, so Liane would know she was joking.  "Especially if you're beginning to think of this city's pollution as fresh air."  She stepped closer.  "My Dear, are you having second thoughts about tomorrow's trip?"
                  "No, as I explained before, I think it's best that I make the trip.  I don't see that my staying here will help in any way."
                  "I agree." The Mother Superior gently took hold of her hand.  "Why, you're trembling?" Concern was clearly written in the older woman's fawn-brown eyes as she stared down at Liane.  "I think it's time you got some proper rest.  I will pray that the problems of your family will soon be solved."
                  "Thank you," Liane bowed her head before turning to leave, then stopped.  "Mother . . .you will keep me abreast of what is happening here, won't you?"
                  "Certainly my Dear."
                  "It would set my mind at rest to know everything is resolved."
                  "You will be informed as soon as I know anything."
                  "Thank you again," Liane nearly whispered.  The woman was being so kind that she suddenly found it distasteful to be misleading her. 
                  As she walked down the long hallway the Mother Superior watched her, a puzzled expression on her face.   In the time since the young nun came to the convent she had grown quite fond of her.  She did not like the ill effects the girl's problems were having on her.  She was not at all herself.  But then, what else could be expected under the circumstances?
                  She would have to light a special candle and pray for a resolution to Mary Catherine's family problems.  Perhaps then she could return to normal.
                  As Liane laid in bed, her thoughts again returned to her sister in the hospital.  She'd have to call her first thing in the morning and let her know exactly what she was planning to do next.
                  She couldn't fool herself into thinking Mary Catherine would be mellow, accepting her decision.  No, this time, she was certain she would truly test her sister's patience.  And patience was one of M.C.'s virtues.
     
    I
     
                  "Listen M.C., I don't have much time to explain," Liane said quickly, nervously squeezing the phone as she tried to silence her sister's triage of questions.  "I've found out that some of what's been going on may tie in with Jack's visits to South America."
                  "In