The day after, during lunchtime, Lillian came to visit Candi. She rang the doorbell.

"I'm coming!" Candi called, heading towards the front door, and opening it. "Hi, Lillian!" She saw Lillian, holding a tiny kitten in her arms. "Aww, is this your kitty?"

"Yep," said Lillian, following Candi into the living room. "Just got him a few days ago. I wanted to come over here, and show him to you."

"Aww! He's adorable! What's his name?"

"Meow."

Candi laughed. "You named your kitty Meow?"

"Yeah."

"That's so cute!"

"I know. He does the cutest thing when he meows."

"Oh?"

"Wait. I'll make him meow. He always meows when I stick my tongue out." So, Lillian stuck her tongue out. Meow meowed, and he started to run around, in circles. Lillian laughed. "See?! He knows his name is Meow, so every time he meows, he goes lookin' for himself!"

Candi burst out laughing, and the two laughed, long and hard, watching Meow, meowing and chasing himself.

"That is too precious!" Candi laughed.

"I know!" Lillian cried. "He's the coolest cat. I love him to death."

Meow continued meowing, and chasing himself.

"Alright, Meow, that's enough," Lillian chuckled. "I'm all laughed out. I need a five minute break."

Unfortunately, the girls could not stop laughing, and during all the craziness, the doorbell rang again.

"Oh, I'll get it," Candi said, still giggling a bit. She walked to the door, opened it, and saw Chloe with a worried look on her face. "Chloe? Is everything alright?"

"Remember me saying that I needed to talk to you, in private?"

"Oh, yes!" Candi nodded. "Please come in. It's only me and Lillian here."

"Okay." Chloe followed Candi back into the living room, where Lillian was petting Meow.

"Lillian, Chloe's here," said Candi.

Lillian looked up. "Oh, hey, Chloe! What's the haps?"

Chloe chuckled. "Hi, Lillian."

"Sit down, Sweetie," Candi suggested.

Chloe did so. She sat between Candi and Lillian.

"Now, what's bothering you?" asked Candi.

"Well... there's a boy in our choir, and I like him. I actually think I'm... in love with him. He's one of my very best friends."

"Oooooh!" Lillian cooed. "Bow-chicka-bow-bow!"

Chloe giggled.

"Who is he?" asked Candi.

"It's Charlie. I really love him. He's so sweet and sensitive, and..."

"What's the problem, then?"

"Candi, look at me. I'm not beautiful. He wouldn't look twice at me, not if I was the last girl on Earth."

"What?!" Lillian shrieked. "Honey, what you talkin' about? You gotta be one of the hottest girls out there."

"I'm not thin."

"So? That doesn't make you less beautiful."

Candi put her arm around Chloe's neck. "Baby, it doesn't matter what your size is. You are an incredibly beautiful, talented, smart, caring, sweet, loving, and warm-hearted woman. You don't have to be a stick person to be gorgeous. I think there should be more supermodels with your body type. It's such a shame that people don't agree with that."

"I know," Lillian agreed. "Some of them supermodels died, cuz they stupid managers don't feed them."

"Or, they worry that, if they eat anything, they'll gain too much weight, and they won't be beautiful."

"Someone's gotta tell them that they're beautiful, no matter what their size is."

"And, the same goes for you, Sweetheart. If you were ever in a magazine, I'd stare at your picture for hours, and I'd never get tired. I'm sure Charlie feels the same way about you. In fact, I think he'd say you're the hottest girl he's ever seen in his life."

Chloe smiled with tears in her eyes. "You really think he would?"

"I know he would, and I also know you'd be a beautiful couple."

"Thank you, Candi, and thank you, Lillian." Chloe hugged them. "I'll talk to him, tomorrow, after rehearsal."

"Okay, and remember, I won't be there. I'll be at the doctor's."

"I hope you're not too sick."

"I hope so, too, because I want to be around to look after all you angels."

"I'll say a prayer for you, tonight, when I go to bed."

"Aww, thank you, Sweetheart." Candi hugged Chloe, and kissed her cheek. "You're such a wonderful person."

"So, who'll be there to rehearse with us?"

"I will," Lillian chimed in. "I been listenin' to the song y'all picked out, and I also been practicin' conductin'. I conducted a choir in college, so I know all the stuff."

"I was in the choir she conducted, and she did a fantastic job," Candi agreed. "You'll all be in good hands."

Chloe saw Meow in Lillian's lap. "Is that your cat?"

"Yep," answered Lillian.

"Aww. What's his name?"

"Meow."

Chloe giggled. "Meow?"

"Yeah. He does the funniest thing when he meows."

"Oh, Chloe, you have to see this," Candi chuckled. "It's very cute."

"I'll make him meow." Lillian stuck her tongue out again. Meow meowed, jumped off her lap, and chased himself, still meowing.

They all laughed so merrily, watching Meow try to find himself.

"That's so cute!" Chloe laughed. "I wish I had a cat like him."

"Maybe you can get a dog, and name him Ruff," Lillian joked.

Chloe giggled again. "Maybe I will."

"Okay, Meow," said Lillian, picking up her cat. "Come here, boy. Sit on Mama's lap."

"Thank you both for everything," said Chloe. "You made me feel so much better."

"Chloe, we're always here for you," said Candi.

"I love you." Chloe hugged and kissed Candi and Lillian.

"We love you, too, girl," said Lillian.

"Bye." Then, Chloe left.

A week later, Candi was still feeling sick, and she was starting to feel tired and weak. She got out of bed, and slowly got ready for another meeting with her group.

While she was brushing her teeth, Máiréad knocked on the bathroom door.

"Come in." Candi said.

She did so. "Candi, Darling, I know you haven't been feeling well for a while. Do you think you should stay home today?"

"No. My friends need my help. I don't mind going."

"Well, should I call the doctor to schedule an appointment?"

"Sure." Candi chuckled. "I'd like to know how to get rid of whatever I have."

"Alright. I'll call now."

Máiréad ran to the phone as Candi finished getting ready.

At the group meeting, Candi had brought a CD of all the songs she had chosen for her group to sing, as well as a list. Today was the day that everyone would vote for about fourteen to fifteen songs to sing.

"Alright, everyone. I have the list of songs to choose from. You can all pass it around. Then, I'll play samples from my CD. Afterwards, we'll all vote for the songs we want. Each song has at least one solo in it. I want everyone to have a chance to sing a solo. While I pass the list around, I want to know how things are going for each of you." Candi handed the list to Teresa, who was sitting at the very end of the front row.

Chloe raised her hand.

"Yes, Chloe?"

"I actually wanted to talk to you... in private."

"Are you sure you can't say it here?"

"No. It's a bit embarrassing." Chloe laughed nervously.

"Alright."

Mae raised her hand.

"Mae, how are things with you and your mum?"

Mae sighed. "Last night, I tried to talk to her, but she wouldn't listen to me. Like, I was trying to tell her that I wish she would support me, and actually be there for me. She said she didn't have time to listen to my sob stories."

"What?!" Natasha shrieked.

"Then, I overheard her on the phone. She was gossiping with one of her girlfriends. She said some really mean stuff about me. She said she couldn't wait to get rid of me. She hates me."

"Did she actually say that?!" Natasha asked in shock.

"Yes. Her exact words were, 'I can't wait to get rid of my bratty daughter. Mae is so annoying. I'm sick of her pathetic stories about how I don't care. Well, duh! Of course, I don't care. I hate her. I can't even remember why I bothered giving birth to her.'"

"What kinda mama hates her own kid?"

"Mine."

"I know. What kinda mama is she? Oh, you don't gotta answer that."

Mae laughed a little.

"I can't believe there's actually people out there that hate they own kids."

"I know," Melanie said sympathetically. "I'm really sorry, Mae."

Tears fell from Mae's eyes. "I don't get it. She never used to be like that. We used to be so close. Then, my dad gets arrested, and she suddenly hates me. I can't wait to get away from her. When I turn eighteen, I'm moving away from her, and she'll never have to see me again!" she sobbed.

Candi gave Mae a big hug as she cried. "Oh, Sweetie."

"I feel like an orphan."

"I know. Your father's in jail, and your mother's treating you horribly. I know you feel like an orphan, because neither of your parents are really there for you. But, let me tell you something that may make you feel better. I mean this from the bottom of my heart."

"What?"

"I love you as if you were my own daughter."

"Really?"

"Of course. I always have, and the same applies to everyone here. I view all of you as my own children, my brothers, and my sisters. You're all a part of my family, and that makes me feel so blessed." Candi held Mae tighter. "Mae, if you'll let me, I will come with you, to your house, and I'll try talking to your mother. If she won't listen, I'll adopt you myself."

Mae smiled through her tears. "Are you really serious about that?"

"I would never lie to you."

"When will you be able to come over?"

"How about right after today's meeting?"

"Thanks, Candi."

"You're more than welcome."

Just then, Mae received the song list. She read through it. "I wanna do You Raise Me Up for you, Candi."

"Awww."

"Thanks for everything."

"Anytime."

Then, Méav raised her hand.

"Méav, how's everything going for you and the baby? I remember you saying he's been sick."

"He's okay. I took him to the doctor."

"Oh, I'm glad."

"Yeah. I was really scared."

"I can imagine."

"Thanks for praying for him. I think that may have helped him a lot."

"You're welcome." Candi sighed. "I may need prayers as well. Lately, I've been feeling sick, and I'm not exactly sure what I have. I thought it was the flu, but flu medicine hasn't had any effect on me. I'm seeing a doctor on Monday. I'm quite nervous to know what it is. I hope I'll be alright, because I want to be here for each of you for a long time. Will you please pray for me?"

"Of course, we will, Candi," Charity said sweetly.

"Thank you all."

"I hope you'll be okay," said Brad.

Candi nodded. "I hope so, too."

After the meeting, Candi kept her promise to Mae. She drove Mae home, so she could have a talk with her mother.

They were parked outside of Mae's house.

"Candi, I'm scared," Mae worried.

"You don't have to be afraid. I will be right beside you, holding your hand, and I'll do all the talking, if you feel you can't say anything. I won't abandon you."

"It's not you. I'm scared of how my mom's gonna treat you. I'm gonna be so mad if she says something mean to you."

"It's okay, Honey." Candi hugged Mae. "Let's go."

Candi and Mae walked right up to the front door, and rang the doorbell.

Mae's mother opens the door. "Yeah?" she says in a snotty tone.

"Mrs. Malone?"

"Excuse me! It's Esmeralda."

"I'm sorry, Esmeralda. I'm Candelaria Solas, Mae's choral director and friend. We need to talk."

"Fine," Esmeralda snapped. "Come in."

Candi and Mae follow Esmeralda into the kitchen.

"I suppose you're here to tell me that Mae came to you, whining about what a horrible mother I am," Esmeralda snarled. "Well, let me save you the trouble. Mae is my daughter, and I will treat her the way I want to treat her. She is a spoiled, selfish brat, and all she does is whine, whine, whine! She probably has you wrapped around her wittle finger. She's got you thinking she's so innocent and sweet. Well, I got news for you, Honey. She's a bleep, and I could care less about her pathetic life!"

"Mom, will you stop it?!" Mae shouted. "I'm right here, and I can hear everything you're say about me! I'm not deaf! I have a lot I wanna say to you, and I don't care whether you wanna hear it or not!" She took a deep breath. "How could you treat me like this? I'm your daughter! Ever since dad got arrested, you've been taking out all your anger on me! What did I ever do to deserve this?! We used to be so close! You came to my school plays. You supported me, and you were there for me. Now, you won't even come to my choir concerts, and you never talk to me! All you do is treat me like I'm your punching bag! You think you can say whatever you want about me, and it won't hurt anything. Well, it does! I'm a human being with feelings!"

"Who cares?!" Esmeralda shouted.

"Obviously, not you."

"Esmeralda, Mae is a beautiful and wonderful girl," Candi added. "Don't you see what you're missing out on? I know you're upset about your husband's arrest, but that's no reason to take your feelings out on your daughter. Don't you see? You've hurt her so much that it'll take a lifetime for her to heal."

"How do you know?"

"She came to me today, and she was in tears. During our meeting, she told me everything. She even said that, when she turns eighteen, she's moving out, so you'll never have to deal with her again. Why can't you give her the love and attention she deserves? Why can't you let go of the anger, and stop taking it out on her? Please think about it."

Candi had just left the church, and she was walking home, when she saw Gabriel's friend, Billy, arguing with his girlfriend, Katie.

"But, why are you doing this?!" Katie cried.

"Look, it's just not working for me!" Billy replied.

"I thought you were in love with me! You said so yourself! Damn it! I can't believe you!"

"Well, I was wrong!"

"You lied to me!"

"Katie, it's not you! It's me!"

"Oh, that old 'It's not you; it's me' excuse!' You're such a jerk!"

"Don't make this any harder-"

"Oh, shut up, Billy!"

"Maybe we can still be friends!"

Katie ignored Billy, and walked away.

Billy followed. "Katie, wait!" He gently grabbed her arm.

"Let me go!" Katie shouted. "I don't wanna hear what you have to say! I've heard enough!"

"Just let me-"

"No! I get it! You never loved me! You led me to believe we actually had a future together! I'm sick of being lied to! Just leave me alone! I hate you!" And, Katie walked away.

Candi's heart sunk while watching the couple split. Billy turned around to see her a few feat away, and he sauntered toward her. "Did you hear the whole thing?" he asked.

Candi nodded sadly.

"I'm actually glad you did, because I need to talk to you about something."

"What is it?"

"I was trying to find a way to tell Katie, but I can't. I've never told anybody, but I know I can trust you. So, promise you won't tell anyone?"

"I promise."

"I thought I had feelings for Katie, but I don't. See, I don't like girls like that. I'm gay."

"You haven't told anyone this?"

"No."

"Not even your friends or family?"

"No. You're the first one to know."

"I'm flattered you trust me enough to tell me, but why haven't you told anyone else?"

"I'm too afraid. What if they won't accept me?"

"I accept you."

"I know you do, but... I don't know about everyone else." Billy sighed. "I just... I don't know what to do."

"Billy, I know it's frightening to tell your friends something like that, but you have to be honest with the ones you care about. It may take them a while to get used to knowing, but if they really care about you, they will accept you for you."

"Are you sure?"

"I am. I don't see anything wrong with being homosexual. That's just part of who you are. In fact, I have friends who are gay but I don't love them any less than I did before I knew."

"Well, I'm not ready for my friends to know yet."

"I understand."

"Please don't tell anyone."

"Your secret is safe with me."

"Thanks." Billy hugged Candi.

"Aww, you're welcome."

"I know I can trust you."

"Muinín."

Billy was confused. "What?"

"That's Gaelic for 'trust.'"

"Oh, cool. I can muinín you."

Candi giggled. "Yes."

"How do you say 'thank you' in Gaelic?"

"Go raibh maith agat."

"Oh, well, go raibh maith agat."

"Tá fáilte romhat. You're welcome."

Billy exhaled quickly. "Wow, you're good at Gaelic."

"Well, I am Irish."

"That explains it," Billy joked.

Candi laughed. "Do you want me to walk you home?"

"Yeah, I don't wanna go home by myself right now."

"It's alright. Come on."

Candi held Billy's hand, and she guided him through the dark night, until they reached his house.

"Thanks for walking me home, Candi," said Billy.

"Anytime, Billy. Do you want me-" Candy was interrupted by another cough.

"Are you okay?"

Candi kept coughing.

Billy was getting worried. "Should I call a doctor?"

Candi stopped coughing. "No, I'm okay."

"Maybe you're getting a cold. I mean, it's a little chilly out here."

"Maybe. I'll be alright. Do you want me to come in with you, for a little while?"

"No, I'll be okay after a while. I'll just watch TV."

"Okay, but if you need to talk, you can always call me, or come over."

"Thanks." Billy gave Candi another hug. "Oh, and I don't care if I catch your cold."

Candi chuckled. "You're so kind."

"You, too."

"Well, good night, and I hope things get better for you."

"I hope you feel better."

"Go raibh maith agat."

"Tá fáilte romhat," Billy replied. He watched Candi leave, and then, he closed his front door.

Candi headed back home safely.

Around 4:30, that afternoon, Candi and her group had gathered in the church's large classroom for a meeting. Candi had her list of songs for the concert. "Okay, I've discussed this with Reverend Fulton, and he seems to like the idea of love, peace, and God for the theme of our next concert, which will take place in six months. That should give all of us plenty of time to rehearse the songs. Now, I have been planning this for a while, and I have made a list of songs we can all choose from. Some of them are classics from musicals, and some of them are some of my favourite Irish pieces. I've made a list of about thirty songs to choose from."

While Candi spoke, someone in the group raised their hand.

"Yes, Brie?"

"Well, I was thinking we could listen to the songs, and vote for the ones we wanna do."

"That's a great idea, Sweetie!" Candi agreed. "And, it just so happens that I have all the songs on CD. We can listen and vote at the next meeting. Today, I want to know how things are going for everyone. Teresa, how are things between you and your sister?"

"Dominique didn't come to our concert," Teresa sighed.

"Oh, I'm so sorry. Have you tried talking to her?"

"She won't listen. She doesn't even hear me talking. I always looked up to her, but she doesn't even know it. I mean, I watch her in all her plays, and I went to all her beauty pageants, back when we were kids. She's never come to any of my stuff. She won't even talk to me. It would be nice to have just one stinkin' moment with her, where she's actually paying attention to me, and listening to me. Teresa hung her head. "I just... I feel so invisible."

"You're not invisible, girl," said Natasha. "Your sister just needs a good talkin'-to. What you gotta do is say, 'Hey, Dominique, I gotta talk to you, Honey. I have somethin' important to say,' and then, just say how you're feelin'."

Candi smiled and nodded. "Try to get her attention, and when you do, tell her what she means to you."

"Thank you so much," Teresa said sweetly.

"You're welcome. William, Dear, how is your daughter? Have you heard anything from her doctor?"

William wiped away a tear. "He said she... only has six months left." William's daughter was a victim of Breast Cancer.

"They can't do anything to save her?"

"No, it's too late. The cancer's already spread too far."

"Oh, no. I'm so sorry. We'll all keep you, your daughter, and your whole family in our prayers."

"Thank you," William responded, trying not to cry.

"We all go through pain in our lives. Some pain is worse than other kinds of pain, but nonetheless, you'll always have a safe place to be when you feel you can't handle it on your own. Whether it's a distant friendship, a relative who doesn't seem to care, or a lost loved one, you're always free to let out your sorrows here. No one should have to suffer alone. In times of sadness, or any difficult time, for that matter, prayers are needed, and even more, love is needed. Where would prayers come from if they didn't come from a sincere, loving heart? I want you all to know that I pray for you nonstop. Every night, before I fall asleep, I pray for you. Before every meal, I pray for you, and every time I sit and think of you, I pray for you. I send out all my love to you, and I ask God to bless you. I truly and sincerely love you very much. Remember that."

"We love you, too, Candi," said Chloe, a young lady, also from Ireland.

"Since joining the group, have any of you had a prayer answered, or has anything good come out of being a part of the group?"

Everyone agreed, and another young girl raised her hand to speak.

"Yes, Jessica?"

"Well, before my dad and I joined, we didn't get along," said Jessica. "I was always rebelling against him, and I didn't treat him with the respect he deserved. Now, I realise I was wrong."

"We're much closer now," added her father, Leo, "and we get along much better. I couldn't be more grateful to you, Candi."

"Thanks for helping me see that my dad just loves me, and wants me to be happy and safe."

Candi felt warm and tingly inside. "You're always welcome."

A young, blond man raised his hand.

"Yes, Nicolaj?"

"I had a lot of prayers answered. Actually, before I came here, I didn't even believe in God. It wasn't really my kind of thing to believe. Then, I joined the group, and suddenly, everything turned around for me. I wasn't happy. I was lonely, and I didn't think I belonged in this world. Back in Denmark, in school, I got bullied really badly. The other kids made fun of me, betrayed me, and even beat me up. I wasn't sure who my real friends were, because every time I made a friend, they'd, all of a sudden, turn their backs on me. Even my own parents didn't get me. When I turned eighteen, I moved here, and I joined this group. The reason I joined was to make friends, but I made more than just that. I found where I belong. I found a huge group of, not just friends, but a big family. I have everything I could ever want, thanks to you, Candi. I found happiness, and I found where I belong."

"You'll always have us, Nicolaj," said Candi.

"I know that now. Thanks, Candi."

Then, identical twin girls raised their hands.

"Yes, Amy and Audrey?"

"Our family just moved here from England, like last year," said Amy, "and we were hoping to make friends who shared our interests, and our religion."

"I was looking in the phone book, and I found the address for this church," added their mother, Jane. "We heard about this group, and we decided to give it a try."

"We're really, really glad we did," agreed Audrey.

Candi smiled and nodded. "I'm glad you made the decision to join. Moving to a strange country can be difficult, because you don't know anybody. I know how it feels. I was once in that place. I know there are a few immigrants in our group. We have Lena from Russia, Jordan from Jamaica, Nicolaj from Denmark, Joseph from Sweden, Elizabeth and Sierra from Norway, Chanel from Bermuda, Luciana from Chile, and Alyssa from England. Jane and her daughters are also from England, and I know we have a few Canadians in our group as well-Malinda, Chelsea, Haylie, and Jason."

"I'm French Canadian," said Jason.

"Were any of you scared when you first moved to America?"

They all nodded.

"It can be frightening to live in a place where you don't know anybody, and you have to adjust. That's such a big step to take, but you had the courage to take it. Now, look at you. You're all part of a big family of people who love you, and it doesn't matter where you come from. It's who you are as a person that really counts, and each of you are good, decent, warm, and kind-hearted people. Now, let's all hold hands as I recite our prayer of peace."

Everyone stood up, in a large circle, and held hands together. They all knelt down as Candi recited the prayer.

"Be generous in prosperity, and thankful in adversity. Be fair in thy judgement, and guarded in thy speech. Be a lamp unto those who walk in darkness, and a home to the stranger. Be eyes to the blind, and a guiding light unto the feet of the erring. Be a breath of life to the body of humankind, a dew to the soil of the human heart, and a fruit upon the tree of humility. Amen."

"Amen!" everyone repeated.

The next day, Candi met up with Gabriel for lunch, at the Outback Steakhouse, across town .

"So, how was the concert?" asked Gabriel.

"It was quite lovely," Candi replied. "You missed a good show."

"Well, you know this Christian stuff isn't really my thing."

"I respect that."

"So, what're you getting?"

"I think I'll just have a salad."

"No steak?"

Candi shook her head.

"Come on. It's a steakhouse. You gotta have steak."

"I might get the Blooming Onion."

"That's good, but... no steak?" Gabriel snarled.

"I'm a vegetarian."

"Yeah, but... you wanted to come here."

"I said I wanted to after you invited me."

"Why'd you say yes?"

"I love their salads, and I love the Blooming Onion."

"Whatever."

"Gabriel, I have my reasons for being a vegetarian, and I'd like for you to respect that, just as I respect your beliefs."

"You do not!" Gabriel snapped "You keep talking about God all the time."

"I talk about him, but I don't try to force you to believe if you don't." Candi sighed. "Gabriel, please, let's not argue. Let's just enjoy our lunches."

"You're right. I'm sorry." Gabriel pulled a puppy dog pout. "Forgive me?"

"Aww, that cute, wittle puppy face always works with me. Of course, I forgive you." Candi kissed Gabriel's cheek.

"I know I can be a jerk."

"It's alright. I still love you."

"I still love you, too."

"Aww."

"So, um, have you thought about us getting married?"

"I have. I think about it a lot. Have you?"

"Yeah. Do you want kids?"

"I absolutely do. What about you?"

Gabriel hesitated. "Uhh, maybe. I mean, I don't know."

"That's alright. Even if we never have kids together, we'll at least have each other."

"Hold on. I never proposed to you."

"I know. I'm just letting you know that if we do get married, and you don't want children, that's alright with me."

"Oh."

Candi chuckled. "Have you decided what you want?"

"About...?"

"Lunch."

"Oh!" Gabriel laughed nervously. "A steak and fries."

Candi looked puzzled for a moment. "Fries?"

"Yeah. French fries."

"Oh, I keep forgetting. In Ireland, we call them chips."

"Yeah, well, we're not in Ireland, so they're not chips," Gabriel snarled. "We're in America."

"I'm sorry."

"I can't believe this. You've been living here for eight freakin' years, and you still act like you're in Ireland! Well, you're not! You're in America!"

"Gabriel, stop it," Candi snapped. "I said I was sorry."

"Okay."

"Look, Baby, I love you. You know I do. I want to be with you for the rest of my life, but if this relationship's ever going to work out, we have to learn to accept each other. I learnt to respect your beliefs and heritage. Now, you have to learn to respect mine. I'm proud of my Irish heritage, and God is very important to me. You don't have to believe what I believe, but you have to accept me as I am. If you don't, we'll never work out."

Gabriel sighed. "Okay. I'm sorry, Candi. I want this to work out, too. You're right. I need to respect your beliefs, and about you being Irish, I think that's pretty hot."

Candi giggled and blushed. "Hot, is it?"

"Ohh, yeah," Gabriel flirted. "And, your accent is hotter."

"Awww." Candi smiled sweetly at Gabriel. "Ta me chomh mor sin i ngra leat."

"What does that mean?"

"That's Irish for 'I love you so much,' and I meant it."

"I love you, too."

"Gaelic is the Irish language."

"It's beautiful."

"I'd be happy to teach you some more phrases."

"Cool." Gabriel rubbed his stomach. "Where is the waiter? I'm starving."

"Me, too. I'm sure it won't be long."

"I hope not."

Well, coincidentally, the waitress came to their table. "Hi. I'm Tori. I will be serving you. What would you like to drink?"

"I'd like a beer, please," said Gabriel.

"And, I'd like some iced tea, please," added Candi.

"Sweetened or unsweetened?" asked Tori.

"Sweetened."

"Okay. I'll be right back." Tori walked away with the drink orders.

"Finally!" Gabriel huffed.

Candi laughed quietly and nodded.

"Wait, why won't you have a beer?"

Candi sighed. "Gabriel, please. Let's not start this again. I don't drink alcohol."

"Okay, sorry."

"Thank you."

Tori returned with the drinks. "Here's a beer for you, sir," she said as she placed Gabriel's drink in front of him.

"Thank you."

"And, here's your tea, ma'am," Tori said, placing Candi's drink in front of her.

"Thank you very much."

"You're welcome," said Tori. "Are you guys ready to order yet?"

"Yes," Gabriel replied. "I'd like a steak and fries."

"And, I would like a small salad and the Blooming Onion," added Candi.

"What kind of dressing would you like?" Tori asked, writing down their orders.

"Italian."

"Okay. You're food will be ready in a few." Tori walked away again.

Gabriel pulled a face. "Yuck."

"What is it now?" Candi asked, a tad frustrated.

"Italian dressing? Tastes like crap."

"Oh," Candi chuckled nervously.

"I-I'm sorry," Gabriel stuttered. "From now on, I won't criticise you anymore, and I won't yell at you."

"Promise?"

"I swear."

"Alright."

"So, what are you doing today?"

"I have a group meeting at the church this afternoon."

"What do you do at the meetings?"

"We just talk, and we might rehearse for an upcoming performance."

"What do you talk about?"

"Life, and how being in the group helps make things easier."

"Cool."

Candi nodded.

"How many people are in the group?"

"Sixty."

"Holy crap! Sixty?!"

Candi laughed at Gabriel's reaction. "Yes, sixty."

"You help that many people?"

"Yes."

"How do you manage that?"

"It's actually quite enjoyable. You'd be surprised what one word of kindness can do for another person."

"Wow. You're amazing."

"So are you."

"Not like you."

Candi smiled at Gabriel. "Aww."

"What time is the meeting?"

"It's at 4:30, but I have to be there about a half hour early. I'm meeting with Reverend Fulton to discuss ideas for a big concert."

"Cool! What ideas?"

"I was thinking about ideas for a good theme for the concert."

"Like what?"

"Love, peace, and God. I've already written down a list of songs for my choir to pick and sing."

"Lemme see it."

"Oh, I don't have it with me. It's at home."

"Damn it. I wanted to see it."

"I'm sorry."

"Ah, it's okay. I'll see it later."

"Sweetie, I know you're not a religious person, but I would still love for you to come to one of my concerts."

Gabriel hesitated. "I don't know," he said awkwardly.

"Please? I think you'd like the voices these people have. They all sing so beautifully."

"Maybe. I'll think about it."

"Okay."

Just then, Tori returned with their food. "Here's your steak and fries," she said, placing the plate in front of Gabriel. "And, your salad and Blooming Onion." She placed Candi's place in front of her. "Can I get you anything else?"

"No, we're good," said Gabriel.

"Thank you," said Candi.

"You're welcome. I'll be back in about ten minutes." Tori left the table, and Candi and Gabriel started eating their lunches.

Candi's group had put on a performance at the church. They were all performing a few Irish pieces. While the orchestra accompanied the singers, the awesome music filled every eye in the audience with tears.

They were just wrapping up the concert with a beautiful and uplifting Celtic piece called The Sky and the Dawn and the Sun.

Afterwards, they received a standing ovation. The choir acknowledged the members of the orchestra, and Candi. Then, they all took a bow together.

After the song, Candi took the microphone. She recited a few lines from the song. "I am the dawn, and the new day begun. I bring you the morning; I bring you the sun. I hold back the night, and I open the skies. I give light to the world; I give sight to your eyes." She paused for a few seconds. "Did you hear the message in those lyrics? I have always loved that song. It reminds us that there is a light at the end of every tunnel, a sunrise at the end of every dark night, and that there is hope, even in the worst of situations. When I listen to the lyrics, I know I will conquer anything. The song also reminds us that, when things are tough, there will always be tomorrow, and tomorrow is the chance for healing and reconciling. Remember to have faith. Pray, believe, and look for good in all things, even if they cause you pain. When a loved one passes on, I believe they live on in heaven, and they watch over you. When a child falls, and bruises their knee, they will heal. With love and medicine, they'll heal more easily. When a romance comes to an end, you have a chance to find someone else, until you finally find the one you were meant to spend the rest of your life with. Never give up. I believe in everything I just said, and I often tell that to my group. Pass this on to others you love."

The audience tearfully applauded Candi's beautiful speech.

After the concert, Candi met up with her mother, outside the dressing room. Máiréad gave her daughter a big hug. "Oh, Darling!" she cried. "You were wonderful! I'm very proud of you!"

"Thank you, Mum," Candi replied. "I'll see you in the fellowship hall in a few minutes."

"Alright."

Candi went into the dressing room to fix her makeup for dinner. Then, she left, and headed to the fellowship hall. She saw her mother and her best friend, Lillian, sitting together, and she joined them. "Hello."

"Hey, girl," Lillian greeted.

"Hi, Darling," Máiréad greeted as well.

"You were smokin' tonight!" Lillian barked.

Candi laughed. "You think so?"

"Oh, yeah. Honey, your choir was on fire."

Candi and Máiréad laughed at Lillian's joke.

"So, where's Gabriel?" asked Máiréad.

"He didn't want to come," Candi replied.

"Oh, that's a shame. He missed a fantastic show."

"Well, this isn't really his scene, so I'm not upset."

"Yeah, but he should've been here at least to support you," added Lillian.

"I don't like to push anyone."

"You're such a sweet person," said Máiréad.

Lillian grunted. "There's just somethin' about that boy I don't like. I mean, he's cute, but he never comes to your concerts, and this is, like, really important to you. If he loved you, he'd support you."

"He does."

"He sure has a funny way of showing it."

"Well, I respect his beliefs, and I don't want to push him into doing things he doesn't believe it."

"I know. I just don't wanna see my best friend getting' hurt."

"And, I appreciate that."

While they were talking, one of the group members, Mae, came to say good night. "Hey, guys. I have to go."

"Can't you stay for the party?" asked Lillian.

"No. My mom told me to come straight home from the concert, or I'm grounded for a month."

Máiréad scoffed. "That's ridiculous."

Mae nodded. "Tell me about it. My mom doesn't even care."

"What about your father?"

"He's in jail."

"Oh, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to pry."

"No, it's okay. I need to talk to people about it."

"Well, go on home, Sweetie," Candi said sweetly, "but please help yourself to a treat. You did a fabulous job in the concert."

"Thanks."

"You will be able to come to tomorrow's group meeting, though, right?"

"Yeah."

"Good."

"See you guys." Mae took a few cookies on her way out.

Máiréad sighed. "Poor girl."

"I know," Candi agreed. "Her mum never supports her, and I don't understand why. She has such a beautiful voice."

"How old is she?"

"She's seventeen."

"Unbelievable!" Lillian snapped. "She's more than earned her mama's trust. She's almost a grown woman!"

"I know. It's such a shame her mother won't let her grow up, and she can't even be with her father." Candi wiped a few tears from her eyes. "I'm just glad we can all be there for her."

"I know she's more than grateful you created the group," Máiréad commented.

"I hope we can reach her mother one of these days."

Just then, Candi's best male friend, Angelicus, sneaked up behind her. "Boo," he teased.

Candi jumped, and turned around. "Oh, hi!" she laughed. "You gave me a fright."

"Can I join you?"

"Of course."

Angelicus pulled up a chair, and sat between Candi and Lillian. "You did an awesome job, directing us." Angelicus is a member of the group.

"Thank you, Sweetie. You did a great job, too. You sang beautifully."

Angelicus blushed. "Thanks."

"I can see why your name is Angelicus. You sing like an angel, and you act like one, too."

He blushed even more. "Stop. You're embarrassing me," he teased.

"Boy, you are so cute when you blush," Lillian flirted.

"Alright, Sweetheart, I don't think he can get any redder," Candi chuckled.

They all laughed together, but right in the middle of their laughter, Candi started coughing.

"You okay?" asked Lillian.

"Oh, yes. I'm fine."

"Do you need to go to the doctor?"

"No, it's probably just allergies."

"It didn't sound like allergies. Sounds like a cold."

"Then, I'll take some cough medicine. I'll be alright."

"Okay."

"I'll give you some cough syrup when we get home," said Máiréad.

Lillian made a face. "Yuck. That stuff is nasty."

"Actually, it's not too bad," said Candi. "I like it."

"I do, too," Angelicus agreed. "Tastes like cinnamon."

"Y'all are brave," Lillian chuckled.

They all laughed again.

During their laughter, Reverend Fulton joined them at their table.

"Hello, Reverend," Candi greeted.

"Candi, you took my breath away tonight," he said.

Candi blushed.

"I'm serious. You put on the most beautiful show I've ever seen. Then again, when have you not?"

Candi giggled. "Aww, thank you."

"I wanna see another show in a few months time. Will you do that?"

"I would love to, and I have some ideas for a theme. I would love to discuss them with you and the group."

"Bless you for that. Well, I just wanted to come over, and tell you what a wonderful job y'all did tonight."

"Thank you so much, Reverend."

Candelaria was an angel from Ireland, or at least, that's what everyone called her. She was a sweet, beautiful, and talented woman with the voice of a goddess. She was adored and cherished by everyone who knew her. With the love in her heart, and her smile, alive with sunshine, she brought so much joy to so many people. Her name said it all. Candelaria is a Spanish name, meaning "candlemas." Her last name was Solas, which is a Gaelic word, meaning "light." Her friends all called her Candi, because of how sweet she was. Her mother, Máiréad Solas, named her Candelaria for the obvious reasons. Like a candle's flame, she was warm and beautiful, and she had a smile that could light up the darkest rooms.

Candi has immigrated from Ireland, with her mother, when she was seventeen years old, shortly after her father died of heart failure. They settled into Miami, Florida, and managed to make friends rather quickly.

After finishing college, Candi wanted to work at the church, so she volunteered as a choir director. Her choir was also a group she created.

Candi had decided to start this group of her own, so she could offer support for those who needed it. The members of the group were either lonely, abused, neglected, lost, depressed for various reasons, or they just wanted to feel loved. Some had joined the group to make new friends, or to be with friends that were part of the group. For whatever reason, Candi's group was filled with more love than anyone could ever imagine in a lifetime.

Candelaria Solas (who also goes by Candi) is a sweet, beautiful, young Irish woman, living in Miami. She is the director and founder of a group at her church for people who need prayers, friendship, kindness, hope, faith, acceptance, comfort, family, a helping hand, and so much more. The members of that group are also a choir, and Candi is the director.

Because of Candi, many people's lives have been changed for the better. So many love and worship her.

At the time, Candi is dating a young man, Gabriel, whom she claims to be madly in love with. The two seem to share the same passions in music, art, poetry, and love. They're even considering marriage. However, when one of Gabriel's friends, Billy, confides a secret to Candi, the secret somehow gets out, and Billy and Gabriel blame Candi for leaking the secret. Gabriel begins to criticize and put down everything good about her, and he quickly begins to doubt her. His abusive and hurtful behavior leaves her no choice but to end the relationship.

Afterwords, Gabriel starts to spread untrue rumors and lies about Candi, turning people against her. The people who turn against her are friends of Gabriel's. Everyone else still supports and loves her.

Not too long after the havoc starts, Candi is diagnosed with congestive heart failiure.

Will Candelaria find a donor for her heart transplant, and survive? Will the people who turned against her appreciate her? Will the real person who leaked Billy's secret be revealed, and will Gabriel shut up?

Notes
1. The character, Candelaria, is Irish, but her name is not Irish. It's Spanish, meaning "candle light" or "Candlemas."
2. There will probably be several surprises and other things in the story that were NOT mentioned in the summary.
3. "Solas" is Candelaria's last name. It means "ight" in Gaelic.

1. Wish That I Could Read Your Mind by Jump5 - Opening
2. Rest of My Life by April Start - When Nicolaj and Tiffany are chatting online
3. Girls Just Wanna Have Fun by Miley Cyrus - When the girls are getting ready for Jane's party
4. I Love You by Martina McBride - When Tiffany and Nicolaj finally meet for the first time
5. I Wanna Be With You by Mandy Moore - Describing the love between Nicolaj and Tiffany
6. Angel in My Heart by Jump5 - When Nicolaj and Tiffany are in the car together
7. Never Far Behind by Aly & AJ - When Nicolaj and Tiffany are talking to Ojo about the hurt they've been through in the past
8. So This Is Love by The Cheetah Girls - When Tiffany is getting ready for the special date she has with Nicolaj
9. Friends by Jump5 - After Tiffany discovers that Nicolaj was in an accident
10. I Surrender All by Jump5 - The duet Nicolaj and Tiffany sing for Abbie's daughter
11. Feel What I Feel by Kat DeLuna - When everyone is getting ready for the wedding for Nicolaj and Tiffany
12. February Song by Josh Groban - The haunting and beautiful song Nicolaj sings to Tiffany
13. The Meaning of Life by Jump5 - The closing song that Nicolaj and Tiffany sing together for the end credits if this ever became a movie
14. Change a Heart Change the World by Jump5 - A song in the end credits that the entire cast of main characters sing together
15. Callas Went Away by Enigma - An extra song since Nicolaj loves this kind of music and is a big fan of Enigma

That night, Nicolaj and Tiffany are lying in bed together. Tiffany is cuddled in Nicolaj's arms.
Tiffany: I can't believe we're married.
Nicolaj: Neither can I.
Tiffany: Remember when I didn't think this day would come? I kept going on and on about how I finally found the guy I wanted to spend the rest of my life with, but... I'd never be with him.
Nicolaj: I remember that.
Tiffany: I probably drove you nuts by blabbing on about it, right?
Nicolaj: No, you didn't annoy me.
Tiffany: Come on. Tell the truth.
Nicolaj: You really didn't.
Tiffany: Really? 'Cuz I got on my last nerve.
Nicolaj: Aww, don't say that.
Tiffany: (Joking) I just did. What are you gonna do about it?
Nicolaj: I'm gonna bring the sweater blanket on you.
Tiffany: Oh, no, you don't.
Nicolaj: (Gradually moving Tiffany's blanket closer to her face) It's coming.
Tiffany: Ohh, no, you don't.
Nicolaj: I'm gonna tickle you.
Tiffany: I'll tickle you before you tickle me, Mr.
Nicolaj: Oh, yeah? I'm the one with the sweater blanket.
Tiffany: CRAP!
Nicolaj: Gotcha! (Tickles Tiffany's neck and face) Tickle, tickle, tickle!
Tiffany: (Laughing hysterically) Stop it! Nico, that tickles! (Continues laughing)
Nicolaj: That's what a sweater blanket does to you.
Tiffany: (Still laughing) You better gimme that sweater.
Nicolaj: (Laughing) I don't think so, Missy. I'm not done with you just yet.
Tiffany: Keep in mind that I have another sweater blanket in this bed, and it's huge.
Nicolaj: (Sarcastically) Aww, I'm so scared.
Tiffany: (Jokingly evil voice) You should be. (Grabs her large sweater blanket) Now, where's your most ticklish spot? Your feet?
Nicolaj: You're not gettin' my feet.
Tiffany: Oh, I'm not?
Nicolaj: No.
Tiffany: And, why not?
Nicolaj: I'll put my shoes on before you even reach my feet.
Tiffany: (Sits up) I don't think so! (Starts tickling Nicolaj's feet) Muahahahahahaha!
Nicolaj: (Laughs loudly) You got me, Baby!
Tiffany: Hell, yeah!
(Knock on door)
Tiffany: (Nervously) Sorry!
Teresa: (Outside the bedroom door) It's okay, you guys. Can I come in?
Nicolaj: Sure.
Teresa: (Opens the door and enters) Hey, guys.
Nicolaj and Tiffany: Hey. (To each other) Jinx.
Teresa: (Chuckles) How's your first night as husband and wife?
Tiffany: Awesome.
Nicolaj: It's gonna take some getting used to, but I love it.
Teresa: I'm happy for you guys. You make a great couple.
Nicolaj: (Kisses Tiffany) I love my baby.
Tiffany: (Smiles at Nicolaj) I love you, too, Sweater-Nico.
Teresa: Aww. (To Nicolaj) I hope I find someone that makes me as happy as you make Tiffany.
Nicolaj: You will.
Tiffany: You really changed. You're a lot nicer now.
Teresa: I never wanna treat you guys like that again. I love you too much.
Nicolaj: Awww, we love you, too, Teresa.
Teresa: Well, I'm gonna give you your privacy for the night.
Tiffany: Okay.
Teresa: Good night.
Nicolaj: Night, Sweetie.
Teresa: Oh, Nicolaj. (Smiles and closes the door)
Nicolaj: (Holds Tiffany) You didn't annoy me with what you said. All you did was say how you were feeling.
Tiffany: I never thought I'd be with you. I didn't think you'd want me.
Nicolaj: Aww, but I do.
Tiffany: All the times you called me beautiful, gave me all those hugs and kisses, and treated me really sweet, they made me sad. Now, they make me happy.
Nicolaj: I'm so sorry I broke your heart all those times.
Tiffany: It wasn't you. I just can't shut up and take no for an answer.
Nicolaj: Awww, please don't be so hard on yourself.
Tiffany: Just being honest.
Nicolaj: Well, then, let me be honest with you. (Holds her tighter) I love you. I'll never let you go. I wanna be with you for the rest of my life. You're one of the only ones that understand me. Every time I had a friend betray me, I thought I couldn't trust anyone anymore. I didn't know who to trust. I mean, I got hurt so many times. You kept telling me you wouldn't stop loving me, and I guess I doubted you for so long. I didn't think you'd stick around for much longer, but it's been three years since we met. You never stopped loving me. I should've seen the looks on your face a little closer when we were video chatting. I remember the first time I saw you on camera. You were thinking about me, and I saw you crying. You really care about me. You don't know what that means to me to have someone loving me the way you do. I thought everyone hated me and wanted me gone, but you said you couldn't stand the thought of losing me. You won't lose me now. I know that suicide isn't the answer, because if I decide to commit it today, I can't change my mind tomorrow. I'll never be able to hold the ones I love and tell them I love them. (Starts to cry) I wouldn't be able to hold you today and marry you. I would've missed out on a lot of amazing things, like being with someone who loves me for me. Baby, I love you so much, and if it's okay, I wanna sing to you. (Sings a sweet song to Tiffany and holds her as she falls asleep) I love you, Baby.