A Summer Homecoming

by Leah Atwood

  He’d given her back a future with Zach, now that she and Zach shared the same faith. His plans gave her hope, and as she’d realized many times since Zach had left, a marriage with him uncommitted to Christ wouldn’t have prospered. God is good, and his timing perfect.

  Voices drifted her way, and she saw other members arrive.

  Eldon Shires, an elderly man who’d attended the church since before she was born approached the booth. “Glad to see you this morning. We missed you last night.”

  “I’m happy to be here. A beautiful morning to start off the weekend, isn’t it?” She returned his greeting with a smile.

  Veronica Staples, the self-appointed leader pulled out her megaphone and spoke loudly into it. “We will have a group meeting in ten minutes by the Post Pavilion. All volunteers, please gather for final instructions and a prayer. Thank you.”

  Melanie looked around for Zach before heading to the pavilion. She couldn’t help the disappointment at not seeing him—not because she thought he wouldn’t show, but because she missed him. She began walking toward the meeting spot when someone approached her from behind.

  “Good morning, sunshine,” a deep voice whispered in her ear.

  “Good morning to you too, handsome.” She turned to face Zach and gave him a quick hug. “I was just looking for you.”

  A sheepish grin took over, and he admitted he overslept. He took hold of her hand and pulled her towards the pavilion. “Let’s hurry. I don’t want to make Mrs. Staples mad. I still have nightmares of her sending me to the principal’s office.”

  Melanie laughed. “You probably deserved it. She can be formidable at times, though I confess that I prefer being on the co-worker side now versus the student side.”

  They arrived at Pine Pavilion and listened to the instructions. After a prayer for a prosperous and fun festival, the group separated to their respective stations. Walking slowly back to their positions, they discussed taking their breaks together at noon as long as they could find someone to cover them both.

  As they reached Melanie’s booth, Zach released Melanie’s hand and reached into his pocket, pulled out spare change. “Can I buy some sweets from my sweet?”

  She rolled her eyes and laughed at his impish grin. “Only if it’s some cheesecake for the cheesy pickup line.”

  “Seriously, I want to be your first sale of the day. How much are those chocolate chip cookies?”

  “For you, one dollar and a hug.”

  “That’s a high price to pay, but the pretty lady is worth it.”

  She dropped his coins in the money box and swatted his hand as he reached for the cookies. “I don’t think so, mister. Payment has not been fully rendered.”

  The banter and flirting came natural with him. Even though she had dated a few men since Zach had left, she’d never been this comfortable with them and certainly, never so bold to initiate flirting.

  Zach gave an exaggerated sigh and hugged her while reaching behind her for his cookies. He grabbed them and waved his prize in front of her. They both laughed, and he offered her one before walking to the kissing booth.

  A few hours later Melanie swiped the perspiration from her brow, wishing she had layers she could shed. The sun had chosen a position that aimed its rays directly into her booth. At least the sun would move soon and give her respite.

  When a break in customers came, she attempted to reorganize the table and add more items. The gorgeous weather was a blessing for the festival. Thinking back, Melanie couldn’t remember a year in which she’d seen so many people in attendance. People arrived by the droves and everyone—in her opinion—stopped to buy something sugary.

  A new wave of attendees came through before she had fully restocked and she made a note to call trusted church members when she got a chance and ask for more donations. If business continued this strong, tomorrow’s stock would disappear before the festival closed today.

  The next hour passed in a flurry until her relief came. Floaters were scheduled to cover different booths during the day for several hours at a time so all the volunteers would be able to enjoy the festival as a spectator as well as a worker.

  She made her phone calls to arrange for more baked goods then walked over to the kissing booth, which was located in one of the few permanent buildings on the festival grounds. Standing aside, she observed with amusements several entrants giving compliments to Zach.

  Many of the sculptures were amazing with their detail and intricacies. Not given to a creative mind, Melanie marveled at the ingenuity of the displays. Lost in thought at one in particular of a barn, she jumped when Zach tapped her shoulder and asked if she was ready to go.

  They browsed the booths, collecting brochures from businesses and services around the community and admiring the abundance of handcrafted items. At one booth, Melanie lingered, admiring a necklace made of wire and beads that created an apple tree. She glanced at the price tag and laid it back down wistfully. Maybe if the necklace was still there tomorrow, she would get it, although she knew she couldn’t afford that splurge no matter how beautiful it was.

  They moved on to the next booth and Melanie filed away thoughts of the necklace.

  Zach pressed against the small of her back with a light touch. “I’m hungry. Care to grab some lunch, my treat?”

  “Are you ever not hungry?”

  “I’m a growing boy.”

  Her stomach growled, desiring something other than the sugar she’d inhaled all morning. “I do smell pit beef that’s enticing me.”

  Zach inhaled deeply. “I forgot how amazing pit beef is. In the south, all you see is barbeque, and it means something different in each locale. I’ll never forget the first time I ordered a barbecue sandwich expecting something with beef, and they brought out a pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw on it. I had never heard of coleslaw on a sandwich, but it was delicious.”

  “That sounds, uh, interesting.” Melanie stumbled on her words, not wanting to admit the concept didn’t appeal to her.

  “I promise you it’s even better than ketchup on an Italian cold cut.”

  Laughter reigned as they took their breaks. After grabbing lunch, they played a few games, and Zach won a giant inflatable hammer. Melanie’s heart melted when Zach, knowing it would be fun for the moment but sit in his room doing nothing, handed it over to a little kid he saw upset about not winning a prize. The joy on the little boy’s face was a prize in and of itself.

  Break time wound down, and they were about to head their separate ways.

  Zach grabbed her hand and pointed to the rides. “Look over there. Hardly anyone is in line for the Ferris Wheel. Let’s go for a ride.”

  “The ticket line is a mile long.” She frowned, wishing she had the time. “By the time we buy the tickets, we’ll have to report back to our stations.”

  Grinning, Zach pulled two tickets from his pocket. “Always be prepared. Isn’t that the scout’s motto?”

  “It would be a shame to waste those tickets.” She practically pulled him to the gate surrounding the popular ride. Giddiness welled in her. The famed Ferris Wheel had always been her favorite ride though she hadn’t been on one in years, since before Zach had left.

  Other people had joined the line before they got there, but she and Zach were still able to get on without a wait. They sat side by side, snug in the little car, and Zach slipped his arm around her shoulders. Once everyone was situated and secured, the ride began. As the wheel made its rotations, lifting the passengers higher and lower, Melanie looked out to the mountains in the distance, feeling like she was as high as their peaks.

  With a satisfied sigh, she leaned in closer to Zach, enjoying the remainder of the ride. When the ride was over, they disembarked, but the magic remained. With a husky voice, Zack reminded Melanie he would pick her up at seven for their date, and then they returned to their stations, anticipating the evening.

  Chapter Eleven

  Zach tried his best to concentrate on the task at hand, but hi
s thoughts constantly strayed to Melanie. Unfortunately, or fortunately, depending on how he wanted to perceive it, his role of a judge at the kissing booth kept him occupied with other human interactions.

  Between registering the contestants and accepting their outlandish compliments, he scarcely had a moment to himself. He’d had a lot more fun than he’d anticipated, but it didn’t compare to time spent with Melanie.

  Bent over, filling out a score sheet for an entry, he spotted a shadow from the corner of his eye. “I’ll be right with you.”

  “Take your time.”

  When he recognized Henry Smith’s voice, he straightened his back. “Have an entry to submit?”

  “Not this year, but I do have a proposal.” Henry’s ruddy cheeks bounced when he smiled.

  “What’s going on?”

  “I heard you’re job hunting. Is that true?”

  “Yes.” Curiosity piqued, he leaned slightly forward.

  “I’m getting up there in age and looking for someone to take over the store permanently. I don’t suppose you’d have any interest?”

  “Even after I left you once?”

  “You gave your notice, and were the best employee I’ve ever had.” Henry squeezed Zach’s shoulder. “But I’m not talking about an employee position. I’d like to sell the store, but only to someone I know and trust.”

  “I… I…” Stunned, Zach had trouble forming a reply. “I’m not worthy of your trust.”

  “Your daddy and I were good friends. I know your past, and can assume why you left.” He let go of his shoulder. “If I didn’t think you were the right man, and if I hadn’t prayed about it, I wouldn’t be asking you.”

  Zach ran a hand over his head. “I’m definitely interested.”

  “Stop by Monday morning, and we’ll talk details.”

  “Thank you.” He watched Henry walk away, shocked at the turn of events.

  He couldn’t wait to tell Melanie.

  Six o’clock came and along with it, the end of the festival for Saturday. Following the instructions left for him, he secured the building and dropped the key off with Ms. Staples. He rushed back to the hotel to clean up and get ready for tonight.

  Melanie left the plans up to him. They’d end the night watching the fireworks together, but first, they’d have dinner at a little restaurant at the foothills of the mountains where he’d made reservations. The same restaurant that they had gone to the night he proposed. At first, he wasn’t sure of the idea, worried that Melanie may find it presumptuous, but after some time in prayer, he felt that is where they belonged on this date.

  This was a new beginning for them, in much the same way that night had been. He hurried to clean up and dress in the clothes he had laid out before leaving that morning. Running out the door, he realized her gift was in the pocket of his other pants. He went back and grabbed it, opening the box to admire it one last time before he gave it to her.

  He performed a short inventory of what he should have, so he didn’t have to waste more time coming back into the hotel room. Starting the truck, he groaned and remembered he had wanted to vacuum it out. The dust from the festival grounds had wreaked havoc on the exterior and interior. Too late now.

  Melanie wouldn’t care, if she even noticed, but he wanted everything perfect. Taking a deep breath, he parked the truck in her driveway and willed away his nerves. This wasn’t his first date, and he wasn’t a teenage boy.

  Peeking out her window, Melanie waved him to the door.

  Shoving the nerves aside, he walked to the door then stopped in his tracks. Melanie looked stunning. He would always think her beautiful, but she’d transformed from girl next door beautiful to cover model sophisticate in less than an hour. Her black dress, with the colorful scarf and tall heels, were proof that modesty didn’t have to be frumpy.

  Recovering, he cleared his throat. “You are beautiful.”

  “Thank you.” A shy smile tipped her lips.

  “Shall we be on our away?” He crooked his arm, offered her his elbow.

  She slipped her arm through his. “We shall.”

  Zach closed the door behind them and helped her into the truck.

  “Does a lady get to know where she is going yet?” Melanie asked after they were on the road.

  A moment’s hesitation passed, and Zach responded, “Mountain View Inn,” and became anxious when he heard her gasp. Was it a good or bad one?

  “I love it!” Her face lit with joy, easing his fear. “What a perfect way to start our newly regained relationship.”

  Unless Zach was off—and he didn’t think he was—he caught a hint of dreaminess in her voice.

  “I am glad you approve.” He almost elaborated, wanting to confide the doubts he’d had about returning to this restaurant with her but didn’t want to risk bringing anything to the conversation that could deflate the mood. “We have reservations for seven-thirty.”

  Soft lights surrounded the restaurant outside, and inside, candle-lit tables were strategically placed to allow each party their own space of privacy in an otherwise public place. The Maitre’d greeted them warmly, and Zach informed him of their reservations.

  “Ah, Mr. Kellar, yes. We have your requested table ready, right by the rear window as requested. Come with me.” He led them to their table and placed menus at their settings. “May I interest you in some wine this evening?”

  A side glance at Melanie subtly shaking her head confirmed his answer. “No, thank you. Two iced teas will be fine.”

  The polished waiter nodded his head then informed them of the nightly specials before hurrying off to get their drinks.

  Minutes passed as they read over the menu, noting the changes and additions since they’d last dined there. Soon, another waiter appeared with their drinks and a savory crab dip as an appetizer.

  “May I take your orders now? If you have trouble deciding I highly recommend the chicken Chesapeake.”

  Zach ordered for both of them. Chicken Chesapeake with a side of asparagus and salad for Melanie. Crab-stuffed grouper, a baked potato, and salad for himself.

  “I like that you ordered for me.” Melanie spooned dip onto a bite-sized chunk of crusty french bread.

  “I am glad.”

  “This crab dip is to die for. How could I have forgotten about it?” Melanie dropped her loaded bread on a dish. “Wait a minute, we didn’t order any.”

  “Yes, we did.” Zach smiled. “I never forgot how much you loved it. When I made our reservation, I requested it since they only make a limited batch every night.”

  “You’re full of surprises tonight. A girl could get used to this.” Her gaze met his, flashing adoration.

  This was his moment. He subconsciously fingered the box in his pocket.

  “Speaking of surprises, I have a present for you.” He pulled out the box and opened it as he handed it to her.

  A tiny gasp of pleasure gave him all the satisfaction that he needed.

  She fingered the beads of the necklace she’d admired at the festival. “It’s beautiful. You shouldn’t have, but I love it too much to not accept it.”

  “I saw you admiring it this morning. When you set it down with a wistful look, I knew I had to get it. I hope I didn’t overstep my bounds.”

  “It’s perfect. Thank you. I never could have bought it for myself, and I really appreciate the gesture and the gift.” She squeezed his hand, affirming her gratitude.

  The meal continued, pleasant and charming. Any nervousness or anxiety that may have previously existed evaporated as the evening wore on. They were simply Zach and Melanie the couple, not the previously engaged couple who had split and recently reconciled.

  Conversation came as naturally and comfortably as the silence. He told her about Henry’s offer, and she expressed her steadfast support. Holding hands across the table, they smiled as two people blissfully in love. They declined offers of dessert, and their romantic dinner came to an end, but not their date. He took care of the bill, and they l
eft the restaurant to watch the fireworks.

  “Where next?” Melanie watched him from the passenger seat. “Fireworks, I know, but where?”

  “Bailey’s Overlook.”

  “I should have known.” She leaned back with a pleased sigh. “That’s the best place to view them.”

  A cloudless night created the perfect evening for star gazing and the fantastic display to come. Zach opened the tailgate and spread a throw over it, then held his hand to support Melanie’s step up. Staring out at the stars, no conversation was needed. The beauty of the night spoke for them as they sat wrapped in the other’s arms, each silently making promises to the other. Years thinned into months and then weeks until all that was left was this moment as they embraced this second chance God had offered them.

  The sky lit with red and blue bursts of light. Time for the show.

  Zach shifted positions to see the fireworks without twisting his neck.

  A series of loud and obnoxious beeps and alarms slashed the romantic setting. They jumped up and scrambled from the unknown source of their rude interruption. Coming down from their high of a romantic evening, he realized the cause of the noise. Zach grabbed his keys and turned off the panic alarm.

  “I forgot I threw them down before spreading the blanket.” He offered an apologetic—slightly embarrassed—shrug.

  “It happens.”

  They exchanged a glance, and then the absurdity of their reactions, jumping and scrambling, broke them down in tears of laughter.

  “I think it’s time to go. We’re getting too punchy,” Melanie squeaked between peals of laughter.

  “You’re probably right. We still have church and a half day of the festival tomorrow.”

  They still laughed when they returned to Melanie’s house.

  He walked her to the door and sobered when he realized he had no choice but to say goodbye for the night. “Can I pick you up for church tomorrow?”

  “You bet. Meet me here at eight forty-five. Service time is different tomorrow due to the festival.”