The instant he left her, a screaming infant under the bright lights in a modern hospital room, he return and demanded an interview with Michael.

“I’m going. You know the love I have with her is different. One life is all I want. I have watched her leave me and return for eons, and this time I’m going whether you approve or not.”

Michael studied Gabriel. “Oh Gabriel… why do you want to go? Humans are only mortal. They are lesser beings than our kind.”

“As you say,” Gabriel nodded, “but humans are also more than you give them credit for. Otherwise, she would not be compelled to return back there, especially not after the last horrid life. Why would a soul willfully return to pain unless the passion is more than you or I can imagine?”

Michael deliberated. Gabriel spoke with such ferocity, making it difficult not to consider his request and, being a warrior himself, Michael could appreciate his friend putting up a fight for what he wanted. Michael sat forward in his chair, steepled his fingers, and gazed at the other Archangel.

“What you ask is too dangerous, Gabriel.” Michael shook his head. “There’s no way to predict what could happen. Once they hear you’re down there… we couldn’t protect you.”

“I’m willing to accept the risk.”

“I’m glad to hear you are, but I’m not sure I want to accept the risks with you.”

Gabriel sighed in frustration. “Please allow me the chance. Just one life with her. I want to hold her with my arms and make love to her the way mortal men can.”

After a long silence, Michael sat back in his chair, his polished armor gleaming in the ethereal light from the Astral Plane, and nodded. “One life. But due to the risks, there will be rules and conditions.”

“Anything.”

“You have one Earth cycle to entice the mortal woman to fall in love with you, true love. And you may not reveal your identity to her under any circumstances.” Michael paused, probably for effect. He was not only the most powerful Archangel, but also the most dramatic. He stood and sheathed his massive sword. “If you fail, you will immediately return to the Akasha and there will be no other similar opportunity.” His tone didn’t allow for negotiation.

Only twenty-four hours. That would have to be enough time. “Thank you, Michael,” he told the retreating warrior.

“Godspeed,” Michael called over his shoulder. “And good luck.”

The Sea Rose by Amylynn Bright is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.