Following my session with Breton, the arch-diocesan exorcist, I felt so encouraged and at peace that I did something that hours before I'd think impossible―I returned to my townhouse where demons had oppressed me and fell asleep on the couch.
When I awoke just after noon, I felt rested and ravenous, so I drove to the nearest Harvey's Hamburger outlet and had a banquet burger, large fries and a chocolate milkshake. Not exactly my state of mind hours before when dark figures filled the room and I was paralyzed by fear.
I don't know what it was but somehow this old priest was not only able to allay my fears but equip me in such a way that I felt confident that I'd be able overcome any powers of darkness that threatened or confronted me.
And, as if to prove my point, that very night I slept soundly and peacefully in my own bed and no night terrors tormented me.
Over the next few days I made a daily pilgrimage to Breton's office for counselling and encouragement. The priest fast became my mentor and guide in all things spiritual and profound.
I found out that Breton mentored several famous people and was a world-renowned and well-respected researcher and expert in every form of religious experience.
By the end of the week I was both delighted yet saddened to learn I had graduated from my tutelage and was being encouraged to resume my lecturing duties.
"I don't know how to thank you, Father, for everything you've done. I feel like a new man."
Breton chuckled, "Well, you are a new creation, Gray, and my only caution is you take care not to slip back into your old ways―you know your weaknesses and vulnerabilities and you have to be careful not to give the devil a foothold or your last state will be worse than your first."
It was a sobering thought and I was determined to make a fresh start and avoid all occasions of temptation that might cause me to backslide into old ways and fall prey to familiar spirits.
I was so enthused I dropped by the Department office and informed the Chairman that I'd resume lecturing on the coming Monday.
He was elated and impressed by my rapid recovery.
It was one of those sunny days I'd want to last forever in order to savour the excitement and joy of being alive...
That was my feeling and expectation until the moment Victoria Mercer appeared at my office door and requested to talk with me...
and stupid me, I let her in.
