I asked cautiously, "What kind of missions are we talking about here?" Gabriel responded, his voice filled with an air of mystery, "There are various tasks, but essentially, your role would be to embody a hero, bringing those drowning in despair back to the surface of optimism, happiness, and hope." "Like a superman?" I asked, my curiosity piqued. Gabriel nodded, a subtle smile touching his lips. "Something along those lines." Spontaneously, I exclaimed, "Oh, I'm drawn to that idea! But what about Carol?" Then, I reasoned with myself, "No, that has nothing to do with my life on Earth." Gabriel's smile widened as he sensed my inner thoughts, and he bid his farewell. "Until next time, keep your mind open. I will inform you soon about the mission details and when it is time to commence."

When I arrived home with a smile on my face, Carol couldn't help but question, "What pleasant surprise has brought you home early?" Without missing a beat, I answered swiftly, excitement evident in my voice, "It's our anniversary today," as I proudly presented her with a delicate hand-carved silver medallion that caught my eye during a visit to Cheyenne's shop on my way back. Though I knew deep down that our anniversary wasn't actually on this date, it was the best alibi I could conjure up against Carol's inquisitive nature. Her above-average intelligence told her that there was something I wasn't willing to share, but her trust in me prevailed. Rather than pressing for more information, she pulled me into a warm embrace, silently acknowledging that for now, this display of affection would suffice.

She had been planning to surprise me with a gift next week, on our actual anniversary. However, now that I had managed to get her a week in advance, she wouldn't have to feel awkward or caught off guard. "There's something else I have to share with you," Carol exclaimed. "Your grandfather and parents are coming to visit us next weekend." My happiness instantly multiplied at this unexpected news. "I must take you out for a celebratory dinner," I declared, unable to contain my excitement. Without hesitation, I pulled her close, enveloping her in a warm embrace, and we both laughed, sharing in the bliss of the moment.

This morning, a cheerful buzz filled the air as everyone in the house bustled about, preparing food, dusting furniture, and tidying up the rooms. Anticipation radiated through the halls, for today, we were eagerly awaiting the arrival of our beloved guests. My father and Carol's father had been lifelong buddies ever since their days in the same division of the US Navy. As for my grandfather, he commanded utmost respect from our entire family, as well as our neighbors and friends. Carol often recounted how it was our mothers who played a significant role in bringing our families together, their friendship blossoming during their time at university in Michigan. Suddenly, the voice of one of the household staff members echoed through the house, "The guests are arriving!" As the shouts resonated, we hurried to welcome our honored guests, feeling the warmth of anticipation and excitement amplify with each passing moment.

Grandfather stepped out of his brand-new space car, appearing as if he had shed fifty years with his recent lung transplant. His vitality was remarkable, his demeanor exuding a new-found vigor. Accompanying him were my parents and a middle-aged woman who seemed to be in the company of our formidable patriarch. Stunned, we all stood on the farm, our expressions a mix of surprise and curiosity. None of us could have fathomed that Grandpa had a lady friend, let alone one who appeared to be much younger. Carol and I were the first to step forward, embracing Grandfather warmly and extending a warm welcome to my parents and their unexpected companion. Soon, Carol's parents and the rest of our kin followed suit, exchanging greetings and expressions of delight. Eager to unravel the mystery surrounding Grandpa's new companion, I resolved to seize the earliest opportunity to inquire about her. Sensing my curiosity, Grandpa leaned in, his voice a hushed whisper against my ear, "It's not what you think." My curiosity grew even more intense, and I found myself eagerly searching for any chance to uncover the truth behind the connection between Grandpa and his enigmatic lady companion. Once again, Grandpa whispered, his words barely audible, "She is a messenger, hailing from the underworld."

As Carol skillfully served coffee and tea to everyone, she discreetly kept an eye on our new guest. Sensing the air charged with curiosity, I seized the moment and turned to Grandpa, posing a direct question about acquiring her resume and teaching background. Grandpa, quick to understand my subtle prompt, replied, "She has actually brought it with her. She intends to provide it to you later. It might be best if you conduct the initial interview." Through our exchange, I observed a wave of relief wash over those who had been listening intently. Their suspicions and wild conjectures regarding Grandpa's unanticipated visitor began to dissipate. The tension melted away, creating an atmosphere of acceptance and intrigue. Taking the lead in conversation, Carol inquired of the lady, "Are you seeking employment in Montana?" The lady, astute and composed, replied, "I am not entirely certain yet. It depends on how things unfold here." Grandpa interjected, a touch of regret in his voice, "I apologize for not introducing Anna earlier. She is a neighbor of our neighbor. I thought it best to remove her from a family dispute. We may have an opportunity to assist her in securing a position as an elementary school teacher in our community--a chance to transform her life."

Carol's mother stepped forward, extending her kindness to Anna. Her words reassured the newcomer, "There is no need to worry. I will do everything I can to help you settle in and feel at ease here." As the evening progressed, dinner was served in the basement, the long oak table ready to accommodate our gathering. We spoke of Anna, sharing our best wishes for her, our conversations stretching into the late hours of the night. Eventually, Carol and I bid goodnight to everyone. With Patrick in tow, we made our way to our designated quarters on the right-wing of the main house. Settling into bed, Carol inquired if I would be staying home with the family the following day. I replied, "I need to go to the office early in the morning for a few hours, but I'll be back home shortly." Carol, understanding my work responsibilities, didn't press further. Instead, she simply requested that I buy some coffee on my way back home. However, no answer came from me. In that very moment, Gabriel materialized, his presence and voice breaking through. "Well, it's time to go," he declared. Suddenly, reality shifted, and I found myself in a decrepit, dilapidated hostel, its deterioration reminiscent of a bygone era, an echo of ancient life on Earth.