A Partner’s Qualities

776

Pre-series; Starsky tells God what he wants from his future partner.

---

David Michael Starsky frowned in concentration, then grinned to himself. He wasn’t sure which part of this situation was strangest — that his aunt had actually designed a ritual so that she could ask God for certain qualities in her husband, that he’d found her notes on the ritual, or that he’d decided to use it himself — with certain changes, of course. After all, he wasn’t interested in a husband !

Finally satisfied that he’d finished the preparations, he sat back on his heels, then reached for the list he’d prepared. He cleared his throat.

“Okay, I know this ain’t quite what the ritual’s designed for, but I figure it’s worth a try.

“See, God, I’m gonna apply for the police force, ta try and help people. And the thing is, when you’re a policeman you need t’ be able ta really trust the guy at your back — your partner. So, uh, there’s a few things I’d like ta ask for…” He trailed off for a moment, feeling slightly embarrassed, then consulted the paper he was holding.

“First thing is, I want someone who’s nice ta people. I don’t want a partner who’s gonna be rough on someone just a’cause’a the colour of their skin, or how much money they got or whatever. I mean, if they’re real bas — uh — real ­bad, then I don’t expect him ta go soft on them, but if the trouble they’re in ain’t their fault, I want him to realise that and not act like it is.

“Second, I don’t want someone who c’n be bribed.” Starsky looked uncomfortable. “I mean, I know everyone’s got a price.” A shadow crossed his face. “I know that,” he repeated softly. “But I don’t want someone who’d look the other way just ’cause he got offered money or somethin’.

“Third, he’s gotta be smart. Real smart, so’s I know he’ll pick up on anything I miss when we’re lookin’ at crime scenes. Figure I can supply the instincts,” he added with a grin. “I’m just not too hot on the book learnin’.” Another glance at his list.

“Next, he hasta be able ta take care’a himself. Don’t get me wrong, I ain’t plannin’ on ever lettin’ him down, but I also ain’t plannin’ on bein’ some kinda nursemaid/bodyguard combo. An’ it’d be good t’know that he could protect me — ya know, if’n I really needed it.

“Don’t care about his looks — though, if’n he was blond it could couple-mint — compliment? — my killer style.” He grinned, then grew serious.

“Last thing, and, God, this one’s ­important,” he stressed. “My partner — he hasta like me, not look down on me or anything. An’ I hafta be able ta like him, an’ respect him.” Starsky drew a careful breath. “Okay, God, that’s my entire list.” He laughed nervously. “Ain’t like I’m askin’ for an angel or somethin’. I mean, there’s gotta be some regular joe around with those qualities who wants ta join the police, right?”

~~~

Far above him, a powerful Being smiled compassionately. I shall certainly see what I can arrange, my child.

His gaze fell on one of His helpers, who was studying the Jewish man with a great deal of interest. Feeling the weight of His gaze, the angel jerked around to face Him.

Would you like this assignment?

May I? the angel asked hopefully.

You would give up many of your abilities. You would become as mortal — and as vulnerable — as he is.

The angel nodded; he’d expected as much. Please, Lord, may I?

You would not remember this; your memories will be of a human life, He continued His warning.

The angel paused at that. Then his jaw firmed. I would still like the assignment, my Lord.

He smiled. You will be good for each other. The assignment is yours, Kenneth.