When I look to the stars,I think of us,Those nights atop your roof,The enchantment that was there,The friendship, and the love,I think as a stray tear falls,I remember the hard times;I remember the fun times,I just remember you,Your smile,Your eyes,Your voice,I hold you close to me in thoughts,I wish you were here with me,But I had to take my path,I am no longer there with you,But my heart seems to have been left with you,For even my thoughts think of you,My eyes long for you,And My heart aches for you,Each time I smile,I think of a joke you made,A friendship and love that was so dear,It is the Language of Love.

It had only been a month since she'd left home, left Agrabah, left her family, and her love. But it seemed like an eternity, even though she was happy with Mozenrath, Bree, and Astral. A void had now opened up in her heart; Paris though beautiful was not Agrabah. It was so noisy and there was still much she didn't understand, but she'd finally grasped the language, and learned to react to things properly. Her days consisted of keeping Astral entertained, and teaching her magic. Though her own powers were much weaker here than they'd been in Agrabah. But instead of feeling weak like she had when they'd been stolen from her, she felt fine. Like it was supposed to be this way, she was destined to be here, in this city and with Astral. But at night in her dreams she saw only her mother’s face, heard only her sister’s laugh, her father’s hug embraced her, and Merkal’s eyes entranced her. She loved them all so much, and it was hard knowing that now they were dead they had been for years to this world, so long ago. She knew there was no going back, and accepted that. But sometimes she'd find herself crying, and other times just wanted to close her eyes to see them once more. She wondered if she'd had a niece or a nephew, and she wanted to see them so much. At that moment she sat in her large, well-decorated cozy room. Looking up at the sky, a smile playing over her lips, and memories flying through her mind. She remembered it all so well, and hoped she always would. With a sigh she stood up and looked at her twin-sized bed with a midnight blue comforter on it, her pillowcases were a baby blue. She turned around and gazed at her dark brown rug, and deep cream-colored walls, edged with a mixture of blues, two large windows were in her room, and even a chair and desk. It really was a nice place, and she loved it here already. Where once she'd worn a harem top with billowy pants she now wore a long sleeved velvet shirt, it was a deep purple, and she wore a still slightly uncomfortable thing called jeans. Her eyes fell upon the picture of her family she'd used her magic to make it, frozen in time; it was the only way she could look upon their faces. Merkal had a picture all his own, as did each family member, but her gaze was locked on his; it was as though he was asking her why she'd left. She felt a tear slip and quickly wiped it away, there was no use in crying again, and she sighed and left the room. Bree and Mozenrath sat in the kitchen, a large room with a linoleum floor. A large cherry oak table sat in the midst of the kitchen, atop that a table cloth of a simple but beautiful cloth protected it, and in the center of the table sat a golden bowl, filled with flowers, Mozenrath sat at the head of the table, and Bree was at the side they were talking quietly and hadn't notice her entering. Yesenia leaned against the counter, which was made of cherry oak as well, it was expensive looking but beautiful, the cupboards were just above it, and filled with china, and of course food. The sink sat at the end corner of the counter, next to the wall, and a window looking towards the horses’ stables was on the wall next to the sink. “Yesenia its good to see you” Bree said with a smile, she worried about her. Yesenia seemed to remain in her room a lot, “Have I been hiding that long?” Yesenia asked with a smirk. One filled with sadness, and sarcasm at the same time. “Yes, you have” Mozenrath said looking worriedly at her, an image of him as his former self flashed through her mind. He'd changed, so much, growing up and becoming very kind. Yesenia sighed, “I'm sorry, I'm just really homesick I miss my family” she sighed, and then smiled when Astral scampered into the room. “Nia we gotta go outside and play please” the four year old persisted. Yesenia smiled at her, “Why don't we all go out?” she suggested.

Astral scampered out of the front door; down the steps and across the large front lawn. Mozenrath had selected a wonderful home, just a little ways outside of Paris, but enough of a country life for his daughter. The city was no more than five minutes drive from where they lived and could be viewed in the distance. The Eiffel tower was something Yesenia didn't understand. Everyone thought it was so beautiful, but up close it really was not much to see. It was late spring and so the field behind the house near the horses’ barn was covered in flowers. Astral raced towards the field and plopped down into them, giggling as she picked on here and one there. Yesenia smiled at her, and could hear Bree and Mozenrath laughing and talking. There was a slight warm breeze that rustled the flowers, and caused Yesenia to close her eyes in a relaxing way. she'd been given a horse by Mozenrath. It was a beautiful Arabian mare; she was black all over except for a star on her forehead, so giving her the name of Midnight’s Star. They each had a horse and Astral had a pony, the whole place was beautiful from the house, to the yard to even the stables. Mozenrath apparently thought they were set for life because he insisted he still had plenty of money. Yesenia looked towards Paris once more, it was so far from Agrabah. But the city was wonderful, “I think I'm going to go to Paris in a little while” she said calmly. Bree smiled, “You definitely need to get out more” she said glad that Yesenia was showing interest in the city. “Can I go?” Astral asked eagerly, her mother shook her head. “Sorry honey but you have lessons and I think Yesenia needs some time alone for now” she said seriously. Astral looked like she was going to complain but instead turned back to the flowers. Mozenrath put his are around Bree’s shoulder, “I am so thankful that most of my family is together..........” His expression went to one of sober seriousness, “I just wish Alex was here,” he said sadly. Bree looked saddened by it, and hugged him, “We all do,” she said seriously. Yesenia felt sorry for them, though she'd lost her whole family they'd lost a child, she knew he was still alive but they were apart. “I'll be back in a few hours probably,” Yesenia said trying not to interrupt their conversation. She turned and walked towards the house, as she entered the Fourier she turned to the kitchen and grabbed the phone calling for a taxicab. She would have to learn to drive soon enough but for now she was happy with the cabs. While she waited she changed her shirt to a turtleneck that was baby blue, with gray horizontal stripes across it. They were thick strips and only three of them were on the shirt in different variations. The first stripe was thin, then the second was thicker, and the third was the same size as the first. They went across her chest, she added a little bit of make up and then ran down to the door to wait. Soon the cab came a tall man sat behind the wheel, he watched her as she sat down in the cab with her light blue-gray coat over her left arm, and her purse in her hand. “Where to?” he asked her abruptly after she shut the door. “Paris” she said simply and waited as he pulled out and headed back the way he'd come, “It’s a beautiful city isn't it, are you visiting or do you live there?” he asked her. “I live at the house you just picked me up from” she said with a smile. “Well how long have you been here?” the man asked his brown eye inquisitively looking at her through the review mirror. “A month,” she answered simply, “We moved from a far away place,” she added. “Really where?” he asked curiously. “Saudi Arabia” she said honestly, even though she didn't open up and tell him the whole truth. “Wow! How'd you learn to speak French so well?” he asked her. Yesenia smiled, “I'm a fast learner” she said simply.

Slowly the cab stopped in front of Au Printemps, which was a large set of department stores on, 64, boulevard Haussmann, and 8th Arrondissement. Yesenia paid the man his money, and then turned to look at the large mall like structure. It reminded her of several market places stacked atop each other. Hugging her coat to her chest she made her way into the building and looked around. There were a lot of people; some were shoving each other, and others trying to get around. The beauty of some of the stores amazed her, and her attention was not where she was going. Suddenly her body jarred as she bumped into someone who had just avoided a loud woman who was not paying attention either. The impact wasn't hard but to the unsuspecting Yesenia it was a surprise that sent her to the ground. “I'm sorry here let me help you” a male voice said from above her, she looked up. Before her stood a tall man with sandy brown hair, and a goatee, his eyes were what startled her. They were so very familiar; Merkal’s eyes had looked exactly the same! She gasped, “Are you okay?” the man asked worried about her, “I didn't hurt you did I?” he asked true concern showed in his eyes. Yesenia shook herself out of the shocked state, “No...no I'm fine, you just surprised me,” she said feeling really stupid. “I've never been here before so I was not paying attention it was my fault” Yesenia said as the man helped her up. “Its okay no hard feelings, I'm William” he said with a half smile. Yesenia looked down at the ground out of embarrassment and bit her lip, “I'm Yesenia,” she said trying to regain her nerve. William smiled, “That’s a Spanish name, but you don't look Spanish?” he questioned curiously. Yesenia smiled, “Really I didn't know that” she said soon the feeling of self consciousness vanished. “Would you like to sit down and have something to drink?” he asked her. Yesenia shrugged, “I would but, I dunno” she said calmly. “You don't have to worry I don't bite” he said with a huge smile, she felt bad about the idea of sitting down with another guy. It'd only been a month since she'd left Merkal. “It's not like I'm asking you on a date” he said noticing the look on her face, one of a lost love. “Just to talk,” he added in a friendly tone, as he extended his hand as an invitation. Yesenia looked down at his hand and then back up at him and into his eyes. She smiled and took his hand, “Okay” she said feeling unsure of herself. With a smile William led her to a café, “What would you like to drink?” he asked her. Yesenia thought for a moment, “I'd like a hot coca” she said simply. He nodded and waved a waitress over, “A cappuccino and a hot coca” he said simply. The woman with dark brown hair and deep brown eyes nodded, “Oui,” she acknowledged, “it will be just a minute,” she said as she walked away. William looked back at Yesenia, “So where are you from?” he asked her. Yesenia sighed, “I lived in Saudi Arabia for my whole life” she said remembering the name of the country in which Agrabah though long buried still lay. “Really how'd you learn to speak French so well?” he asked curiously, “I thought that women were expected to keep very covered up,” he said. Yesenia smiled, “Not where I was from, but I learned to speak French just before we got here. I guess I'm a fast learner,” she said seriously but with a friendly smile. “Really, I grew up in France all my life, but I do have ancestors from Arabia,” he said seriously. Yesenia cocked her head to the side and smiled, “Really who?” she asked curiously. William shrugged, “all I know is that their last name was Kahil,” he said calmly. He noticed the look of surprise on Yesenia’s face. “Is something wrong?” he asked her. Yesenia shook her head, “No, not really,” she said trying to cover the surprise, was this Merkal’s great great grandson or someone in his family? Had she found a connection to her first love, and best friend? It explained the fact that William and Merkal had the exact same color eyes and same shape of those eyes. “You just looked like you'd seen a ghost,” William said as the waitress came and placed the hot cocoa and the cappuccino they'd ordered. He noticed Yesenia’s eyes falter, “No I was just surprised, I knew a Kahil” she said honestly. William looked surprised, “Really who?” he asked. Yesenia shrugged, “My friend’s name was Merkal Kahil” she said. “Was?” William asked gently, and noticed Yesenia tear up. “He died a while back,” she said blinking back the tears and trying not to let them go. “I'm sorry, no wonder you reacted like that” he said sympathetically as he gently touched her arm. “It's not your fault” Yesenia said wiping away her tears she gave him a brave smile, and then picked up the hot cocoa it was so good.

William and Yesenia spent the rest of the day talking at the table in the café, “William I have to get going now because they weren't expecting me to be gone so long” Yesenia said standing up. William smiled, “Okay, but here is my address please come on over sometime,” he said with a hopeful smile. “I think that'd be fun” Yesenia said taking the piece of paper, and then turned to leave, she turned around once more and shot him a smile that made him smile back weakly. She was so beautiful, and seemed unaware of that, but he knew she'd been through the pain of a lost love. Yesenia walked into the kitchen quickly, which caused Bree, Mozenrath and a very startled Astral to glance up. “What?” Bree asked Yesenia, she looked like she'd seen a ghost. “You would believe it!” Yesenia exclaimed in disbelief herself. Mozenrath looked up curiously, while Bree arched an eyebrow. “I bumped into this guy named William, when I looked up I saw Merkal’s eyes, he had the same shade, and shape! We started talking and in his family is the name Kahil! From Arabia!” she exclaimed in disbelief. Bree looked surprised, “Your sure?” Mozenrath asked skeptically. “I'm positive, I swear” Yesenia added eagerly. “He gave me his address, but I don't know if I should go over and visit, I mean he’s nice and all..............but.........” she said calmly. “You should go over sometime” Bree encouraged, “I know you feel bad because we just left Agrabah only a month ago, but still” she paused. “The past is the past and the future is yet to happen,” she said finally. “don't hold onto Merkal so much that you never have fun again,” she said seriously. Yesenia nodded, “You're right,” she added, “Well, I am going to go to my room for now,” she said leaving the three of them alone. Astral looked at her mother, “What's she talkn bout mommy?” she asked. Bree smiled, “Nothing sweety don't worry,” she said calmly.

Yesenia tenderly touched the picture of Merkal running her fingers over his image, setting the picture back down. Picking up a notebook and a pen she moved towards her comfortable bed, and fluffed up her pillows. Sitting back against them she looked at the notebook paper, her mind was reeling. Tapping the pen against her lips she thought what would she say, it wasn't like Merkal would see these letters, but still. She wanted to have some kind of connection with him. She finally touched the pen to the paper.

Dear Merkal,

I miss you so much; I don't know how I get from day to day without you, your smile, your gaze, and your kiss. There is so much I want to tell you but when I turn to tell you, you aren't there. I feel an empty shadow bearing down upon my heart and soul, a lost sailor in the middle of a huge ocean with nothing but a small boat. Such loneliness is never to be expected in life, but now I know with love comes loss. I want you to know I will always love you, and miss you. I don't think I'll ever move on, people think I should but it’s been only a month. I sit back and wonder what you've done with your life, and how many children you and whomever I'm sure you found had. I hope you found much happiness with her, and I hope she filled that void known as me. I hope you know why I left and understand, I still am not sure totally why I did. I just know Destiny calls you and you must go. Something greater than us exists and he controls destiny. Tell Crystal I said hi, and hug mother and father for me. Give your mom a good hug as well, and don't forget Fazaal. Remember, my thoughts are with you, my heart is still yours, and my eyes gaze at this very moment upon your image. I miss those beautiful blue eyes smiling at me, its only going to get better according to Bree and Mozenrath. Maybe someday I'll find someone to love me, maybe they'll show me why I'm here in a foreign and unknown land and time.Love always,Yesenia

Tears fell from her eyes as she read the letter, tearing it loose from the notebook; she placed it in a small box, which had filled up with letters. She wrote to him every day, sometimes twice, it depended on her feelings of that day. She pulled out a small bunch of letters, and things he'd given her, a smile placed across her lips. She held a small jar, which was exquisitely detailed; he'd given it to her. It still smelled of home and Agrabah. It still made her heart ache for those she'd left behind, placing the jar carefully back in its safe hiding place she placed the lid on the box of letters and memories. Stuffing it gently back under her bed, she wiped away her tears and lay back down on her bed, perhaps she would go visit William again she thought to herself.

The next day William busily cleaned the kitchen helping his mother with the chores. She lived at home with him, since she was disabled, and had nowhere else to really go. “Billy, dear would you please just relax and let me do this?” his mother asked in exasperation. “Of course, if that’s what you want,” he said walking from the kitchen towards the couch in the living room; it was his day off from his job at the office. Just as he sat on the couch, he heard a knock at the door, and got up to answer it. When he swung open the door he smiled at the girl before him, “Hi Yesenia, I didn't expect to see you so soon” he said sincerely happy that she was there. Yesenia nodded, “I thought I'd come over and visit you today, I do have someone here to meet you, she’s my friend Astral” she said calmly. A young girl with black hair and light blue eyes peaked out from behind Yesenia, and smiled at William. “I'm Astral,” she said happily. William smiled at, “Its nice to meet you” he said politely opening the door for them to come in. His mother had wandered into the hall way and when she saw Astral, her expression changed from curiosity to adoring. “She is so adorable!” she squealed happily, Astral smiled at her and then shyly hid behind Yesenia. “Yesenia this is my mother Nancy” he said introducing them. “Its nice to meet you Nancy” Yesenia said taking Nancy’s right hand and shaking it warmly. “Astral why don't you say hi to Nancy?” Yesenia suggested. “Okay Nia, Hi Nancy” Astral said stepping forward towards the elderly woman. “Hello Astral,” she said with a smile, “I have some cookies would you like them?” she asked. Astral perked up even more at that point, “Can I Nia, oh can I?” she asked eagerly. Yesenia smiled and had to laugh, “Of course,” she said allowing Astral to follow William’s mother. “Come on in and sit down,” William said moving towards the couch; he waited for her to sit before he himself sat down. Yesenia was wearing a short sleeve shirt, which slightly revealed the lower part of her stomach, it was a nice pink, and then she wore a pair of black jeans. “You look really nice today,” he said honestly. Yesenia smiled, “What these old things” she said with a wink, that caused him to laugh. “I saw that on a movie last night” she said calmly, and stretched her arms as she drew her knees up to her chest and wrapped her arms around them. “So how'd you know I'd be home?” he asked her. Yesenia shrugged and smiled, “I took a good guess,” she replied simply. “So where do you work?” she asked him curiously. “I work at a modeling agency, I'm a camera man, I take the pictures,” he said relaxing. “Really, I think that’s interesting, do you think its fun?” she asked looking at him. “Yeah actually its nice, true some of the models are a little snobby, but its nice,” he explained. “You know you should stop by sometime if you need extra cash, I'm sure my boss would hire you,” he said seriously. Yesenia looked thoughtful, “Maybe,” she said, “I mean I could use money now, but I don't want to get serious about it just a little work here and there” she said seriously. “Okay just stop by tomorrow” he said handing her a business card, “Or you can stop by here by seven and I'll take you there myself,” he said calmly. “I'll meet you here” she said and looked over as Astral and Nancy entered the room. Astral’s chubby hands were full of cookies, “Nia I brought you one,” she said walking over quickly and handing Yesenia a very crumbly cookie. “Thank you Astral,” she said with a smile, she lifted the child to her lap as she put her feet back on the floor. “You welcomes,” Astral said between bites. “She is simply adorable, you should bring her over when my daughter’s children are here they'd get along great” Nancy said happily. “Sure, if its okay with her Mom and Dad,” she added. “Of course dear, of course” Nancy said simply. The visit was short but Astral kept Nancy entertained very well. “So I'll see you tomorrow” Yesenia said as they left, “byyyyyyyyyyyyyyyye” Astral squealed still full of energy.

Antony looked up as William entered the building with a beautiful young woman. “Who's this?” he asked shooting Yesenia a charming smile. “Yesenia this is my boss Antony, and Antony this is my friend Yesenia. She could use some work and I told her you might hire her for a couple of shoots,” William said. Antony brushed back his dark brown hair, his brown eyes wandered over Yesenia, “I'm sure we can,” he said afterwards. Yesenia smiled, “Thanks” she said gratefully, as she followed Antony and William. “Now we need to get you to fill out a few things, and then get measured, and we'll start on your portfolio,” Antony said quickly. “Okay” Yesenia said feeling a little confused about the whole thing. Soon she stood in a room full of people paying attention only to her. One man was doing her hair, which she found very unusual, and a woman was putting make up on her face, while another chose outfits for the shoot. “Oh zis will look beautiful on you,” she said eagerly. Yesenia wanted to say thanks, but she had to keep quiet, the woman was putting on lipstick at that point. Soon she was dressed in a beautiful red silk evening gown, with spaghetti straps, and a wrap around her arms. It touched the floor but had a slit going up to her knees. “Gorgeous” Antony said as he watched her walking towards them, her hair was up in a bun with curls cascading around her heart shaped face. Her deeply tanned skin looked great against the dark red, the make up only added to her. William smiled, “I know that’s why I thought you'd be able to find a job for her” he said calmly. “What do I do now?” she asked William unsure of herself. “Just go over here Yesenia, can I call you Nia?” Antony asked her as he led her in front of the camera his arm was casually over her shoulder. “Sure” she said as she listened to what he said. “Now just look at the camera, and flirt with it, smile and just be beautiful,” he said taping her nose, as he left. Yesenia looked at William, “Just look here, and do what I holler,” he said reassuringly. “Come on and be classy,” he hollered. Yesenia struck a pose that was graceful and classy, her smile was bright and sincere. “Sexy,” William said hoping she wouldn't react badly. Yesenia gave him a coy smile and placed her hands on her hips. “Now sweet,” he hollered, Yesenia shot him the most innocent smile he'd seen in a long time. “Try mischievous,” he said calming down she was comfortable. A glint of trickery shown in Yesenia’s eyes, like she was a true prankster, soon she was done with that series and placed in a powder prom dress, which was velvet with silk ties around it. It had no straps and those long gloves that reached up to her elbows, she again wore a wrap, the shoot was over soon, and the pictures all taken. “She’s a natural,” Antony said giving William a friendly slap on the back. “She’s from Arabia isn't she?” he asked William. “Yes” he said simply. “I thought they were very conservative?” he said perplexed. “Not where she was from, Antony don't get pushy with her, and definitely don't ask her on any dates” William said. “Why you want to?” he asked. “I like Yesenia, but she’s just getting over a lost love, at least be nice to her,” he said calmly, feeling protective of his friend. “Sure sure” Antony said dismissively as he walked towards Yesenia who was now in a regular shirt, and a pair of jeans. “You did great, I'm sure we'll have a job for you in no time,” he said smiling at her. “Would you like to go to dinner?” he asked and paused, “To celebrate,” he added. Shooting her a charming smile, Yesenia hesitated, “I don't know I have things to do tonight, maybe another time,” she said calmly. “Sure, tomorrow?” he asked. Yesenia thought and shrugged, “I guess so,” she said semi-sure. “I'll pick you up about seven, oh you do have a nice dress don't you?” he asked her. “No I'm kind of short on money,” she said feeling a little bit uncomfortable around him. “Okay then what's your address?” he asked her, “you'll have something nice tomorrow,” he said. Yesenia wrote down the address, and then looked at William, “Well I'll be going now, I'm sure you have to work more” she said. “Yeah a couple more hours” he said, “You go have fun with Astral” he said and waved as she left. Antony smiled, “Where'd you meet her?” he asked William. “In a store,” he said preparing the camera for the next shoot. Antony walked away after the next model a French girl who was very skinny, and very pretty posed for the camera. “You don't see many girls with her looks that are as sweet as she is,” Antony said off handedly. “She is a nice person,” William said distractedly.

“Yesenia how'd the job go?” Bree asked curiously as her friend walked through the door, “It went great,” she said with a smile. “That’s good” Bree said, “So did you get it?” she asked. “Well William and Antony are going to show people my photos, and then we'll see,” she said. Mozenrath smiled, “I still can't believe you're modeling,” he laughed. Yesenia shot him a jokingly offended look, “Oh really, what you don't think I can do it?” she asked. “No I didn't say that, I just didn't think you'd like it,” he said holding his hands up in defense. Astral toddled out to where they were, rubbing her sleep filled eyes. “Nia you home” she mumbled walking over to her. “Yup, now I see someone just woke up from their nap” Yesenia said playfully. Astral yawned, “How'd you know?” she asked wearily. Yesenia giggled as she bent down and hugged the child, “Just a hunch” she said with a wink at the little girl. “I gotsa hu......nnnn.......ch... that I am hungry” Astral said cutely. “Sweety why don't you come eat your soup I just got it ready for you,” Bree said smiling lovingly at her daughter. “Okays,” Astral said eagerly running away from Nia and towards her mother whose arms were outstretched for her.

As everything does time passed quickly, each day turned to night, and each night into day. With each dawning Yesenia and William grew closer as friends. Her career as a model though minor soared, as did Antony’s interest in her. Two full months had passed since she met William, and she'd slowly without realizing it let go of Merkal. Yesenia smiled at Astral who was preparing for a fun run through the sprinklers, it was a hot July day outside and though not nearly as hot as Agrabah it was still warm. “Nia let's go!” Astral squealed eagerly, pulling her arm to get her outside. She ran over to her mom, “Please mommy come out, where’s daddy?” Astral asked as distracted as a four year old could be. “He went into the city” Bree said, she'd changed into a bathing suit in the knowledge that her daughter would try getting them out. Yesenia had also changed, “Let's go,” Bree said to Astral as she and Yesenia ran out to the back yard with her in front of them. “Later we'll have to go horseback riding” Yesenia said as they came closer to the running sprinklers. “Yeah it’s a great day but let's wait for Mozenrath you know he enjoys that time,” Bree said just after that she squealed as her body came into contact with the freezing water. Yesenia’s squeal of gleeful bliss followed as the two grown ups ran around with a four year old in the sprinklers. The horses nickered in response to the excited laughter, and the running around. The graceful Arabian horses pranced, trotted, and danced in their pen. It was a graceful sight to behold next to the heart touching sight of a mother, and aunt playing with a young girl who loved them both so much. It was the sight that Mozenrath walked in on; “Hello” he said shooting them and if I were that soft that would have been the most sweet moment look. “Oh hi” Bree said stopping the running; she ran over and wrapped her freezing soaked arms around Mozenrath. “Oh cute” he said looking at her with a redundant look. “Oh come on you know you wanna join us,” Bree said looking at Astral and Yesenia. “Yeah Daddy run through the sprinklers too,” Astral said running up to him she wrapped her cold wet arms around him. Yesenia giggled at the look of exasperation and love that Mozenrath wore on his face. “That’s just not fair you both got bathing suits I'm still in this,” he said motioning to his pants and short-sleeved shirt. “Well too bad,” Bree said, as she led him to the sprinklers with Astral still clinging to his leg. Mozenrath screamed in surprise as the cold water hit him, “OH! That’s *cold*,” he squealed in surprise and shock. “Of course Mozey it wouldn't be refreshing if it wasn't” Yesenia said joining in on the family moment. He shot her a slightly offended look, “don't call me that,” he said in annoyance but with a smile. “Oh yeah well I think someone needs to wear a mud mask!” Yesenia squealed a mischievous glint in her eyes and a smile on her face. She ducked down and grabbed some loose mud and threw it at Mozenrath who hollered in surprise. “Oh! You really think you can take me on?” Mozenrath asked her as he scooped up some mud in his hand he threw it at Yesenia who ducked and instead it hit Bree. “That’s it Wizard boy your going down!” Bree hollered in mock anger. She grabbed mud and began throwing it pretty soon all three adults and Astral were having a full fledge mud fight. Finally their energy wound down and they laid on the dry part of the back lawn. “Now I have to take another shower” Mozenrath mused as they all relaxed. “Oh we all do” Bree said with a grin. Astral yawned, “That was lotsa fun mommy, daddy, and Nia” Astral said closing her eyes she was soon asleep covered with mud and still drying off. Yesenia smiled at her, “You know I think I'll take her in and give you both some time alone,” Yesenia said as she stood and then lifted the child up in her arms. “You're sure?” Bree asked looking at her. “Yup,” Yesenia said as she walked away towards the house. Mozenrath smiled at Bree, “I love you,” he said kissing her cheek. Bree smiled, “Is that all?” she asked grabbing him as she gave him a deeply passionate kiss, “I love you,” she said smiling at him.

Yesenia called William after she took her shower, “Hi, so what’s up?” she asked him curiously. Curling up on her bed she smiled as he told her about his day, “So are you still going to do the shoot?” William asked Yesenia. “Yup, I feel a little weird in those dresses but they are pretty” she said. “Well I'll see you tomorrow then, but I have to be going” he explained, “Sure tomorrow then” Yesenia hung up the phone and then picked up a notebook and began to write Merkal another letter.

A month later.............

The night wove its spell of dreams and relaxation, of peace and joy. As Yesenia laid her head on her pillow a peaceful smile played on her lips. Wearily she sighed and snuggled deeper into her comfortable pillow and bed. The warmth of the blankets surrounded her, and she soon felt her eyes growing heaver, the invitation to sleep was too much to resist as her body lost consciousness and her dreams took over. Mists surrounded her, and for a moment she knew not where she was until a familiar voice called out. “Yesenia, is that you?” Crystal asked running towards her older sister and embracing her. “Crystal, wow you uh changed” Yesenia said looking at the older girl before her. “Of course I'm older but you aren't, I have someone you should see,” she said urging her sister to follow her through the misty city of Agrabah. Crystal knocked on the door, to Merkal’s old home. Which was answered quickly by a young boy, “Hi Auntie Crystal,” the child said as he smiled. He bore a resemblance to Merkal. “Who's this?” he asked curiously. “This is my sister” Crystal said with a smile. “Daddy, Crystal’s here,” the boy hollered loudly. Merkal walked quickly over to the door, and did a double take when he saw Yesenia. Quickly they embraced, and cried. “Its so good to see you” he said into her hair as they hugged. Bahiyah came around the corner, “Yesenia!” she said in surprise. Yesenia felt a part of her heart sadden this had to be a dream for it could be nothing more. “Yesenia, Bahiyah and I married, almost a year after you left” he said gently. “I'm glad you found someone,” she said with a teary smile. Merkal nodded, he was so much older looking than when she'd last seen him. “Yesenia I want you to be happy too, you need to let me go, move on and find someone,” he said as his words began to echo. Suddenly the mists rose once more and took from her those she loved. A young girl stepped from the mists and smiled at her. She had midnight black hair that touched her waist, and large blue eyes. Her skin was a bit lighter than Yesenia’s and she had a kind smile on her face. “don't be afraid,” she said calmly, as she disappeared and in her place Yesenia’s parents stood. “Sweet Heart” Abdul said giving his daughter a hug, her mother practically squeezed the breath out of her. “We love you, and miss you terribly,” Aisha said as a tear flowed down her left cheek. Again the mists rose and consumed them, and again something else rose. The palace’s outline stood out against the bright sun that had just filled the place where she stood. Voices echoed from the city, some pleading with her to not leave, some saying let go, while others screamed incoherent words. With a sudden bang the city fell silent and a melody she knew well played. The words they used to chant as children played in her dream. “Arabian Night like Arabian day hotter than hot in a lot of good ways.......................” the song played like a blessing shutting off the voices and soon the city faded from her view. Yesenia had begun to shiver in fright from all the confusion. “Yesenia........Ye....se....nia” her name echoed around her like a shadow playing tricks. “Yesenia...Nia...” the voice pleaded with her.

Yesenia’s eyes fluttered open as she looked at the four year old who was on the bed next to her. “Astral, what's wrong?” she asked drearily. “Nia, I had a nightmare” the four year old sobbed as she wiped her eyes. “Can I sleep here?” she asked her. Yesenia nodded and smiled, “Sure” she said and allowed the child to snuggle beneath the covers with her. Soon the pair drifted off into a more peaceful sleep and the night flew by until as always the sun rises to chase the darkness away.

Yesenia sat in the backyard relaxing in the mid-day sun, as she watched Astral run around. She had failed to notice someone approaching her. William smiled gently at her, as she raised her face to the sun and closed her eyes for a moment a though breathing in the warmth of its rays. She looked so beautiful, and so peaceful in that moment and it made him love her all the more. Sadly though he didn't think she loved him, and if she did she'd never dare let go of the past not yet. He ran his right hand through his sandy brown hair and sighed, “It’s a nice day isn't it?” he asked her gently. Yesenia opened her eyes in surprise and then smiled, “It is,” she said happily. “Especially after last nights dream,” she mused more to herself than anyone else. William nodded, “Is it okay if I sit here?” he asked not wanting to disturb her. “Of course,” she said sincerely and watched as he sat down. “Do you want to talk about last night’s dream?” he asked curiously. Yesenia played with her ponytail, “Not especially, its something you wouldn't understand,” she said calmly. She instantly felt bad once the words left her lips and she saw the look on William’s face. “No...no William I didn't mean it like that” she said hoping it would help. “Why wouldn't I understand?” he asked curiously, he knew she hadn't meant to hurt his feelings. “It's something in my past, something you'd never believe” she said honestly. “Why don't you tell me and we'll see” he said sincerely interested. Yesenia looked at him skeptically, but his blue eyes only showed interested and nothing harmful. “William, I'm not from here,” she said calmly. “I know you're from Arabia” he replied. “No...well yes I am but I'm not from this time” she explained William looked at her unsure of what she'd say next. His brows were furrowed in concentration which made him look all that more handsome. “I'm from an ancient city called Agrabah, I came here for my destiny” she paused, and then began the tale of her life. Weaving a story that to William’s century was long ago. William nodded and listened carefully as she told him of his great great so on grandfather Merkal Kahil. At some points he looked as though he didn't believe her then other times astonishment and interest shined over his face. Finally she finished, “You don't believe me do you?” she asked worriedly. William shook his head, “It just sounds a bit.... different, I mean here I thought you were just a girl from Arabia but, now I know where you're saying you're really from.... I'm not sure what to think,” he said. Yesenia nodded, and then Astral ran up to them, “It's true Wilam” she said cutely and then ran to get her mother and father. “Mommy come here Daddy hurry up” Astral urged them. “What's wrong?” Bree asked looking at Yesenia. “The story where we from it's true tell Willam,” Astral urged. Bree gave an understanding nod, “Its very true, but you must not tell anyone else,” she said. Mozenrath snorted; “Like they'd believe you,” he said and shook his head. William looked at Yesenia, “So it is true,” he mumbled. Yesenia nodded, “Now you know, you do still want to be friends right?” she asked him. William laughed, “Of course” he said if only she knew he wanted so much more than that. But he understood even more now than before why Yesenia always seemed so distant and mysterious. Yesenia smiled at him with relief, “Good” she said simply, she really wondered if William liked her more than friends or not but she wasn't sure. So she left it at that, “Well we should be getting to work now” William said as he showed Yesenia the time. “I'll see you all later” Yesenia said jumping up and running after William. Bree smiled at Mozenrath, “So how long do you think it'll take?” she asked him with a mischievous glint in her eyes. Mozenrath shrugged; “With those two who knows?” he said putting his arm around her shoulders and hugging her lightly. Astral looked at them, “how long what?” she asked simply. Bree smiled lovingly at her daughter, “you'll learn soon enough” Bree explained. “Ooh okays, if it won't take long,” Astral said turning from her parents she ran around the yard some more.

Antony stood beside William as he shot pictures of Yesenia in a long gown that seemed to fit her so much better now that William knew more of her. Soon the shoot was done and he watched Antony walk over Yesenia and ask her something, she nodded her head. Antony walked over to William, “It seems I have a date tonight,” he bragged with a smile. Then he walked away, and left William to his thoughts. William’s gaze fell upon Yesenia what did she sees in a guy like Antony? Was she really going on a date with him or was Antony just making it out to be more than that. Yesenia went to change her clothes, when she came out she wore a pair of shorts and a short sleeve shirt. Her hair had been braided, “William what's wrong?” she asked him. William shrugged, “I just heard that you're going on a date with Antony,” he said simply as if it didn't matter. Yesenia shook her head, “No, we're having a business dinner he wanted to talk to me about some more work” she said simply and then walked off. “I'm going home now,” she said over her shoulder. William’s eyebrows furrowed, as he watched her leave, 'why would Antony say date if it was a business dinner?’ he wondered what the man was up to.

That night Yesenia stood in front of the mirror brushing her hair, and putting on make up. She was wearing a fancy dress that ended around her knees, it was a dark purple, with a light purple outlining and spaghetti straps. She was wearing a pair of fancy looking sandals, Antony had said to look dressy tonight because they'd be at a fancy restaurant. Bree opened the door, “Antony’s here” she said simply. Yesenia nodded, “I'll be down in a minute” she said quickly. Bree walked out of the room and down stairs she glared at the man before her, “She'll be down shortly,” she said. She didn't trust this guy; he looked sneaky, at least to her. Of course she'd never really trusted too many people. Antony smiled smoothly back at her, “Thank you Bree,” he said simply as he waited for Yesenia, he smiled at his plans for the night. If all went well, his thoughts were interrupted when Yesenia came out and smiled at him. “Bonjour, Yesenia,” he said giving her a warm smile. Yesenia walked towards him, “Hi Antony, so are you ready?” she asked him, he nodded, “But of course” he said leading her out the door. “Bye Bree” Yesenia said waving at her friend, Antony waved as well and then closed the door behind them.

As they sat at the restaurant and talked Yesenia noticed Antony move closer to her occasionally but tried ignoring it. Perhaps she was just seeing things, “So you said we were going to talk about another job for me” she said finally bringing up the subject, which he had not bothered in the two hours they sat there to even bring up. “Oh yes that” he said with a smile that made her slightly uncomfortable. He moved closer to her, “I really think you can make it big as a model, but I can't help you do that until you do something for me,” he said with a charming grin. Yesenia shifted and moved away, “What's that?” she asked not knowing if she wanted to hear it. “Sleep with me, it'll help your career out more than you know,” he said kissing her shoulder. Yesenia stood up and glared at him, “I only did this as a way to have a little money, I don't need people like you to get me anywhere! If I am going to go somewhere I'll do it without a creep like you!” she hollered and ran out of the restaurant. She heard him stand up and follow her, but she kept on going. “Yesenia..........you're fired,” he hollered after her. She stopped and glared at him, “You can't fire me; I quit the moment I stood up,” she snapped and shoved him into a cart with cakes and snacks.

She walked quickly along the streets wiping the tears from her eyes as they came out; she wasn't even sure where she was. But she knew she was mad, and she knew she just wanted to be alone. Suddenly from behind her she heard the sound of running feet, and knew it was him. Fear filled her heart as she ran faster, her sandals prevented her from going very fast. “Leave me alone,” she screamed loud enough for people to hear. She ducked into an alleyway and was stopped short by the dead end. She turned around and saw Antony glowering at her. “Go away Antony” she screamed louder, she lifted her hands and prepared to defend with the only thing she had: her magic. But she felt nothing at the moment since her magic wasn't as steady as it had been at one time. 'Oh come on,’ she thought, casting a spell the only one she could manage that threw her voice up higher, she screamed, “HELP ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” and looked at the approaching man helplessly she wasn't close to his size or even as strong. His greedy eyes looked upon her in a way no woman wants to see.

William had been walking the streets in thought, wondering what Yesenia was doing at that moment when he heard a voice so familiar. Yesenia sounded so scared; he tried to decide where the voice had come from and quickly decided east of him. He turned and started running his heart raced and his mind reeled wondering if she was okay. Soon he heard some movement in an alleyway, “Antony leave me alone,” she said, “get your hands off of me,” she screamed. William entered the alleyway and saw Antony pinning Yesenia against the wall he was trying to force her to kiss him. William glared at him, “Get away from her Antony,” he growled angrily. Antony looked at him, “Go away, William” he said as though the man were a puppet. “No” William hollered his face was full of rage, his blue eyes sparked with anger. He moved towards the man and grabbed him, Antony swung at him but William ducked out of the way and punched him in the gut. Sending the other man down to the ground in pain. Yesenia looked shaken and moved towards William quickly avoiding Antony, but as she went by him she kicked him in the stomach hard. William lead her out of the alley and walked along beside her, not making any attempt to comfort her it seemed she wanted to be alone at the moment. they'd been walking for a few minutes when she finally spoke, “he.... he was going to...” she stopped short as tears welled up in her eyes. She moved towards William and wrapped her arms around him crying into his chest. He wrapped his arms around her and rocked her back and forth. “Its okay,” he said calmly, “I am so glad I heard you,” he said calmly. Yesenia finally stopped crying and looked up at him, “Thank you, William,” she said softly. In her eyes he saw such pain at the moment, but something else shined there almost a sort of recognition. “You're welcome, Angel,” he said leading her forward, “We really need to put distance between us and him,” he added. He still had one arm wrapped around Yesenia’s shoulder and she was sort of snuggled against him as they walked. “William,” she said softly after a little while of walking, “Yes?” he asked her. “Do you love me?” she asked him quietly. He was surprised by her question but then a smile spread over his face, “I have from the moment I met you,” he said honestly. Yesenia smiled, “I think I had a sign, that last night when I had a dream it was me back home. Only everyone was older but I was this age still, Merkal told me that he wanted me to move on,” she said looking at him. “I think I just might,” she added with a shy smile. William felt a rush of joy over come him in spite of the incident tonight. “William will you take me home?” she asked him wearily. He nodded and waved a cab down; as they climbed in he told the cab where to go. Yesenia leaned against him the entire ride home, here eyes half closed in thought. Finally the cab came to a stop in front of her house, “Just wait here,” William, told the cab driver, “Yes sir” he said. William got out of the car first and then waited for Yesenia to step out, as they walked towards the door she stopped him. “What do I tell them?” she asked. William thought, “The only thing you can: the truth; you did nothing wrong,” he said sincerely. Yesenia nodded and opened the door, “Yesenia!” Bree exclaimed looking up at her in surprise, “We were so worried, where were you?” she asked anxiously. Yesenia swallowed and looked at her, “Antony...he tried to...” she couldn't get any further still. Bree looked at her in shock, “But William came along and stopped him,” Yesenia said quickly. Mozenrath was listening, “How could he!” he said angrily. Yesenia shrugged, “He thought I would like to expand my career and I'd do it by sleeping with him, I said no... and ran off; then he followed me.... and...........” she stopped there for a moment. “My magic wouldn't work, the only thing I could do was cast a spell that'd make my voice carry further and William heard me” she said seriously. Bree looked enraged by Antony’s actions, “I knew I didn't like him,” she said angrily. “William thank you so much for watching out for her,” Bree added afterwards. William nodded, “I have to be going but if you need anything just call me,” he said. Mozenrath walked him to the door, while Bree hugged Yesenia. “How far did he get?” she asked gently. Yesenia shook her head, “Not far, he just got as far as kissing me,” she said in a broken voice. “How could I be so stupid?” she asked Bree. “Oh no, Yesenia that wasn't your fault” Bree said seriously. “Yesenia, how were you supposed to know he was like that?” Mozenrath asked her. Yesenia shrugged, “I just should have,” she said with a sigh.

The next morning William hurried over to Yesenia’s home to see how she was this time though his heart was lighter than it had been in a while. He knocked on the door, and to his joy Yesenia answered it. She was wearing a pair of jeans and a purple turtleneck, with stripes on it. “How are you?” he asked her, she looked tired but seemed in better spirits. “I'm doing better,” she said with a wry smile. She followed him off of the porch as he walked down to the front lawn. But her foot slipped on a step and she fell, but instead of the ground William managed to catch her. They looked at each other in surprise first and then smile spread across their face. Bree looked out the window and motioned for Mozenrath, the two of them watched in silence. “Thanks” Yesenia mumbled, as her eyes remained locked with William’s eyes. He started to set her down, and they started moving closer. Yesenia’s eyes closed and then reopened as their lips touched her eyes closed, as did Williams. The feeling of the kiss was indescribably wonderful, when they parted Yesenia smiled at him. “I love you, Yesenia,” William said seriously. Yesenia looked down for a moment and then back at him, “I love you, too, William,” she said and then kissed him again. That point and time in her life was when Yesenia finally accepted where she was and what her destiny truly was. She still thought of her family and friends but no longer mourned. She moved on just as her family had told her, just as she knew she should. Paris grew on her and she loved it a lot here. Yesenia and William started dating in August, and fell deeply in love.

“Nia, it’s going to snow, look!” Astral said excitedly she pointed the overcast sky, and to Yesenia’s pleasure and amazement a snow flake fell followed slowly by another, and another. Soon a soft snow storm had started, “Its so magical” she said looking at the snow and then at William. Shortly after the attempted rape, Antony had been fired, and William had kept his job. The clients offered Yesenia a job again, but she turned them down. William smiled at Yesenia, “It is no matter how many snow storms you see,” he said seriously as the five of them watched in wonder from the porch of the house. Soon it would be Christmas, something Yesenia had never heard of before but now looked forward to celebrating. William had told her it was the day they recognized the birth of Jesus, who is the Son of God. Though he'd tried to talk to her a few times about Christ she didn't always feel like listening a part of her still clung to the belief in Allah even though she'd never really worshiped him. “Will you come to church with me next week?” William asked Yesenia. Yesenia sighed he'd been trying for sometime now, “Sure” she said giving him a dazzling smile. “Good” William replied with a grin of his own.

The next Sunday Yesenia sat beside William in a pew, as he'd called them. The pastor was talking and they'd just gotten done singing. The music was beautiful and different from any songs she'd known. “Now we will turn to John 3:16” he said quoting the verse with such a feeling, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” The pastor went on to describe becoming a Christian and even the walk of a Christian. Yesenia had never heard of all of this before. She realized that all her life it had been her carrying all her burdens, she took care of herself. she'd always fought her battles alone, or so she'd thought. she'd never turned to anyone else for help, and she now realized. That she felt empty in a way she never really realized before but had always known she was. When the man called anyone up to the alter who wanted to pray of be lead to the Lord. She stood and walked up quickly, “Dear Jesus please come into my heart and save me, take my sin from me. Thank you for all you have done for me, and please forgive me for sinning. I love you, Amen.” Yesenia prayed the prayer and felt her heart lighten, a smile spread across her face, as it seemed her heart now had a song, which it sung. She walked back and looked at William a single tear of joy fell down her right cheek. “Thank you for insisting I come” she said wiping it away. William smiled and hugged her, “Congratulations” he said quickly.

“It's Christmas, Nia, wakes up,” Astral said bursting into the room, Yesenia groaned and opened her eyes. “I'm up” she said tiredly, and pulled herself out of bed. She quickly dressed and walked down stairs where Astral now waited with a very drowse set of parents. “Look!” she exclaimed at the presents that had been piled under the tree during the night. “Wow!” Yesenia said with a smile, “Who did this?” she asked looking at Bree and Mozenrath. “don't look at me there’s more here than what we put under the tree,” Bree said. Mozenrath smirked as if he knew something no one else did. Yesenia smiled, “Yeah there is” she said with a giggle, “Mozenrath what are you up to?” Bree asked looking at him suspiciously. “Oh nothing big” he said with a grin. Suddenly they heard bells on the roof, “It's Santa!” Astral shrieked in excitement. Some dust from the chimney fell down and soon a man in a suit stood before them. But Yesenia knew who it was immediately, “Genie!” she exclaimed running up to him. “Yesenia, it's great to see you again,” Genie said with excitement. “But how?” Yesenia asked looking at Mozenrath, “Well I figured it was him. Some funny little man runs around on Christmas Eve with eight tiny reindeer and jumps down a chimney. It sounded like something Genie would pull,” he said. “So I waited up last night....” Mozenrath was interrupted by Genie. “Yeah you should have seen the surprise on my face when I saw him,” he said with a huge genie grin. Yesenia giggled again at the offended look Mozenrath shot Genie. “Carpet keeps me company,” he said pausing as the rug flew down the chimney after him. “Oh, you should meet Mrs. Claus,” he said with a wink. Yesenia nodded, “So you and Eden married?” she asked him. Genie nodded, “You bet, and of course that means kids, too,” he added. Mozenrath shot a look at Bree as if to say 'great just what we need more genies’. Bree laughed and Astral ran to Genie, “Hi I'm Astral,” she said with a grin, “I know that,” Genie said with a wink. “Good, cause if you didn't you couldn't be Santa,” she said with a cute smile. Someone knocked at the door and Bree went to answer it, soon she returned with William. “What's Santa doing here?” he asked looking at the man in surprise. “Well, this is the real Santa but um he’s also a friend of mine from Agrabah this is Genie the now free Genie of the lamp,” she said introducing them. “Hey William” Genie smiled and extended his hand to the still shocked man. Finally the Christmas party was under way and gifts were torn open. Astral kept getting up on every gift and squealing thank you to everyone. Finally they were down to one last gift and it was from William to Yesenia. He moved towards her nervously, and then got down on one knee. “Yesenia Ulaya Izmet, will you marry me?” he asked her looking deeply into her eyes. Yesenia smiled in happiness, “Yes I will,” she said allowing him to slip the engagement ring on her left hand ring finger. William pulled her in for a kiss and hugged her happily, “I love you,” he said realizing for a moment just how much more special she was to him. “I love you too,” she said as tears of joy fell down her face and into his shirt. “Congratulations,” Mozenrath said with a smile, Bree grinned. “I'm happy for you,” she said. Astral smiled and ran around, “Auntie Nia’s getting married!” she exclaimed with joy. Genie looked teary eyed, “its all so magical, I'm not going to cry,” he said fighting it. “I'm not going to wahhhhhhhhhhaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa” he said grabbing carpet as he blew his nose he looked sheepishly at the rug, “Oh sorry” he said and zapped him clean. Yesenia looked at Genie and carpet she remembered the last time she'd seen him do that at Aladdin and Jasmine’s wedding. Carpet shook himself and flew over to Astral allowing her to climb aboard he carefully flew around the room. “Faster!” she squealed even though the carpet wouldn't listen to her request knowing that Mozenrath, Bree, and Yesenia would be furious with him should she get hurt. Genie zapped a cassette player into the room and soon Christmas music filled the air as Yesenia and William stood hugging each other love shining from them both.

For love shines brighter and stronger on Christmas than any other day, because on that day Jesus the Son of God was given to us as a gift, the greatest gift the only way home to Heaven. So let us not forget that this Christmas or any other as it would be wrong to let commercialism and even the thought of Santa Claus distract from Him and his grace. For He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and through His Love we can do all things nothing in impossible.Merry Christmas everyone,Sincerely,Michelle Bowen