Abide: A Christian Romance Novel (The Lewis Legacy Series, Book 7)

by JoAnn Durgin

  They’d shared a lively conversation on the way to the mall. Other than trying to prop her bare feet on the dashboard, Lauren had been polite. Whatever was going on in their lives seemed to weigh heavily on Caleb. His daughter, however, seemed either unaware or unconcerned. More likely, she didn’t know about the threats. Maybe she should have asked Caleb, but for now, Caty would remain silent and hope Lauren didn’t mention them even if she did know. As much as anything, Lauren needed normalcy in her life. Talking about the threats wouldn’t benefit either one of them.

  Lauren’s smile evaporated. “Caty, I need your help deciding which clothes to get.” With Caleb’s credit card, this girl could probably buy one of everything in the department. She seemed surprisingly considerate about spending her father’s money.

  “Start by telling me where you’ll wear your new clothes.”

  A frown clouded Lauren’s pretty face. “I don’t get to go anywhere, so I’m not sure. I wear a uniform to Greenbriar-Browne.”

  Don’t get to go anywhere? That statement tugged on Caty’s heart.

  “I think this outfit is my favorite of the ones you’ve tried on, but I really liked the green top with the capris,” Caty said. “And the yellow top with the matching skirt. Plus, you can mix and match some of the tops and bottoms. If you want, we can ask the clerk to remove the tags, and you can wear this outfit tonight. How about that? It might be a nice surprise for your dad.”

  Granted, the leggings were black, but Caleb would have to live with it. He’d learn soon enough that basic black was good for a woman of any age.

  “That sounds okay. Hey, can we buy something for you, too?” Lauren’s eyes lit. “Do you ever wear jeans? You don’t wear suits all the time, do you?”

  “I’m all set, thanks. I wear suits for work, but when I’m at home, I’m usually in jeans, shorts and T-shirts, or workout clothes.”

  “Dad works out all the time. Like a fiend, Lettie says.” A grin spread over her features. “He thinks you’re gorgeous.”

  Don’t ask. No matter how curious, Caty had already learned her lesson with Lauren. On the other hand, Lauren’s comment to her dad earlier in the day had brought an unexpectedly wonderful response. A response she still couldn’t quite believe had happened. Caty touched her fingers to her lips for a brief moment before lowering them. Goodness, the man could kiss.

  “Don’t you want to know how I know that?”

  “Come with me, please.” With a gentle hand on Lauren’s arm, Caty positioned her in front of the three-way mirror. “I want to show you something. Do you mind if I try something with your hair?” The preteen’s long hair was lovely but too long and heavy.

  Lauren shrugged. “What are you doing?”

  “You’ll see.” Working quickly, Caty draped the girl’s long strands of dark hair over her hands. Twisting her wrists, she gave it the illusion of a shoulder-length cut, almost like a bob. “Imagine a few layers along the side of your face and maybe some light wispy bangs.” Caty smiled at Lauren’s reflection in the mirror. “What do you think?”

  “I think I like it.” Lauren moved her head from right to left and then turned to the side. “I haven’t had my hair cut in a long time. I guess I don’t think about it. New clothes, new look, right?”

  Caleb’s words about adopting a new attitude rang in Caty’s ears. First the father, now the daughter.

  “Change is good every now and then,” Caty said. “Do you ever wear your hair in a ponytail or pull it back?”

  “Sometimes. Usually, I wear it down. I don’t know how to fix it or what to do with it.”

  “If you don’t want to cut much off the length, you could have it trimmed to even out the ends,” Caty said. When she released Lauren’s hair, it fell almost to her waist. “I’m sure a stylist could find a style that works with your natural wave so it’ll be easy for you to do at home.”

  Lauren gave her a thumbs-up. “Can we do that now? If we don’t, I might chicken out.”

  “You? Never. Let’s pay for the clothes, and then I think it’s a good idea to call your dad and get his opinion on the haircut.” She didn’t wish to step over Caleb’s parental boundaries.

  “Let me get my cell phone,” Lauren said.

  “I have your dad’s phone number.”

  “You do?” Lauren seemed surprised but not upset.

  Caty retrieved her phone from her purse. “He called me once, so I have it.”

  “I thought he had some kind of block on it. Dad must think you’re really special.”

  Seemed Miss Lauren had romance between her and Caleb on the brain. Would she feel the same about any woman? If Lauren knew about the kiss, she’d probably have them married by next weekend.

  Caty quickly scanned the list of contacts in her cell phone and dialed the number.

  He picked up on the first ring. “Caleb Reid.”

  “Hi, Caleb. It’s Caty. I’m sorry to interrupt if you’re still in your meeting.”

  “Not a problem. I’m leaving downtown now. Is everything okay with Lauren?” At least he sounded calmer and not at all agitated.

  “We’re having a great time, but Lauren has an important question to ask you.”

  When Lauren gestured for the phone, Caty handed it over.

  “Hey, Dad. I picked out some cute new things. Can I get my hair cut? Please? Okay. Hold on.” She nodded and then returned the phone to Caty. “He wants to talk to you about it.”

  “Nothing too short is all I ask,” Caleb told her. “When Lauren tries something new, she has a tendency to go for extremes. I still want her to look my daughter if you know what I mean.”

  Caty couldn’t resist teasing him. “I’m guessing that means no bright streaks of color in her hair? Purple or pink? They have temporary color that washes out quickly.”

  He laughed. “I’d prefer not. I hope you didn’t just give her the idea.”

  “I don’t think you need to worry.” Lauren stood by the register and talked with the salesclerk while Caty gave him the name of the mall and basic directions.

  “I should be there in about forty to fifty minutes, depending on traffic. I suppose it’s like Dallas on a Friday afternoon. You never really know. Was Carson able to make it?”

  “Yes,” she said, lowering her voice. “Call when you get to the mall since I’m not sure where we’ll be at the time.”

  “I’ll see you soon, Caty. Thanks again.” The affection in Caleb’s voice made her smile.

  Lord, if this isn’t right, please help me not to fall headfirst into something with this man.

  Caty had the feeling it might be too late to stop that fall.

  After Caty approached the counter, Lauren tugged on her arm. “I really need some new underwear, too.”

  “All right, but your dad’s on his way to meet us now. If you make it quick, we might still have time to get your hair cut.”

  “Can we go to that fancy underwear store where they sell thongs and stuff?”

  Caty turned to the waiting salesclerk. “Can you please help us find some age appropriate underwear?”

  The woman smiled. “I’m sure we can find some things for her, Mrs. Reid.”

  Mrs. Reid? Caty did a double take and widened her eyes at Lauren.

  Lauren pouted. “I really want to go to the other store.” At least she hadn’t called her Mom.

  Caty pulled out her phone again.

  “Who are you calling?”

  “Your dad.” Caty started to dial the number. No wonder the salesclerk thought she was Lauren’s mother.

  “Okay, okay. I’m just teasing you. I don’t wear those things, anyway.”

  “Good.” With a satisfied smile, Caty pocketed her phone. “Keep moving.”

  Testing the limits, Caty. She’s just testing the limits.

  ~~♥~~

  “Pssst! Cates!”

  Startled, Caty turned in the chair. Lauren was in the back fitting room of the lingerie department.

  Carson peeked out from behind a man
nequin. Creeping closer, he hunched down beside her chair. “How am I doing?” This whole spy thing was like a game for him, but her brother was physically strong. Carson wouldn’t hesitate to defend them if needed.

  “You’re like the Pink Panther’s protégé. You’ve only knocked over one display so far.”

  “Hey, that thing just jumped right out at me,” he protested. “No harm done. Do you think Lauren suspects anything?”

  “No, but you’d better stay clear.” Her eyes misted. “Thanks for being here even though you have no idea why.”

  “That’s what brothers are for, right? I’m glad you called me.” Carson grinned. “Makes me feel useful. Sam’s writing books and leading TeamWork, and Will’s the space hero, but I’m not sure what my niche is yet.” He waggled his brows. “Or should I say my superpower?”

  “No doubt in my mind you’ll have a great ministry one day, little brother. I happen to know you have unique qualities that Sam and Will can’t touch.”

  “Yeah?” Carson’s dimples appeared. “Like what? I could use some positive reinforcement. It’d be nice to have a permanent job when I graduate, anyway.”

  “You relate incredibly well to people. I know how important the jail ministry is to you in Dallas. I know you’ve given men hope and led souls to Christ. That’s a special gift.”

  “Thanks.” He crossed his eyes and gave her a comical grin. “I can’t believe I’m in the ladies underwear department. Will’s gonna love this story.”

  “Remember you can’t say anything about this.” Boys will be boys.

  “And spoil my fun? Will’s such an easy target.”

  “I know, but—”

  “Caty!” Lauren called from the fitting room. “Can you come here for a minute?” At least she wasn’t demanding, didn’t sound like a diva.

  “I’m being summoned. You’d better scoot before Lauren comes out and sees you.”

  “How long do you want me to follow you?”

  “Until Caleb meets us. He’s on his way now.” Caty checked her watch. “If we have time, we’re going to the hair salon first.”

  He chuckled low in his throat. “Sounds like fun. So, who is this guy? He must be pretty special for you to be so secretive.”

  She sighed. “I wish I could tell you, Carson. I really do. He’s Lauren’s dad is all I can say.”

  “I figured that, but I didn’t mean to pry. Sorry.” He raised his hand. “Lewis Honor?”

  Caty smacked her palm against his like they’d done when they were kids. “Lewis Honor.” She hadn’t done that in forever and yet it came back to her like they’d done it yesterday. After digging out her wallet, she pulled two crisp, fifty dollar bills and handed them to Carson. “When we’re done, take this and go buy yourself something nice.”

  “Now I’m a kept man.” He waved the money in the air. “Nice and crisp. What’d you do, print these bills this morning?”

  “It’s called visiting the ATM, silly.”

  “Alrighty, then. Thanks, Cates. The poor seminary student will accept your charity. I’m not too proud.” Folding the bills, he pushed them down in the pocket of his jeans.

  “You’ve done me a huge favor. Love you.” Caty kissed her fingers and placed them on his cheek. “I’ve got to go. Later.”

  “Take care. I’m on the case.”

  With a wave over her shoulder, Caty headed toward the fitting room.

  Chapter 27

  Sunday Morning

  Caleb pulled back the curtains covering Lauren’s window and then raised the blinds. Bright sunlight flooded the yellow and blue bedroom. “Good morning, sunshine!”

  Rolling over, Lauren tossed him a dazed-with-sleep look. “It’s Sunday morning. Go away.”

  “Lauren, I told you I wanted you up by eight. It’s now 8:15. Rise and shine time.” Caleb fumbled with fastening his right cuff link as he approached her bed.

  She eyed him. “Do you have a meeting? You’re all dressed up.”

  “I told you last night. We’re going to church.”

  “We are?” Yawning, she slapped one hand on her forehead. “Why?”

  Because I’m a negligent father when it comes to your spiritual upbringing. Because you and I both need to reconnect with Jesus. So many reasons.

  Standing beside her bed, Caleb opened and then closed his mouth. He didn’t want to pull the old because I’m your father and I say so card, but he would if that’s what it took to get her to church.

  “Here’s an idea,” Lauren said. “You go and then come home and tell me about it.”

  He shook his head. “No deal. You told me not all that long ago that you feel like a prisoner in this house. This is the inmate’s chance to escape.”

  Her forehead creased. “As long as I can get out of the house every now and then like on Friday night with Caty, it’s not so bad. Hey, is Caty coming to church with us?”

  “No. I assume she goes to the church where her family attends.” Why couldn’t he get the cuff link fastened?

  “Did you know one of Caty’s brothers is the next space shuttle commander?”

  “For real? Have you met him?”

  “No.” He grinned. “Maybe we can invite him to dinner sometime.”

  “Yeah, right.” She rolled her eyes. “Like that’s ever going to happen.”

  “Hey, you never know. I invited Caty here for dinner on Tuesday night.”

  As he knew it would, that statement caught his daughter’s attention. “Seriously? Cool.” Then she surprised him by giggling. “You should serve her liver with chopsticks. She’d love that.”

  Caleb chuckled. “Not if we want her to come back again.” He gave up on the cuff link.

  “Here. Let me do it for you.” Lauren got on her knees and gestured for his sleeve. “You always have a hard time with the right one.”

  “I guess I’m not as talented with my left hand.”

  She fixed it for him with impressive speed then patted his wrist. “There you go. All set.”

  Eyeing it, Caleb gave her a nod of approval. “Thank you.” Helena had always helped him with the cuff links and then Lettie. Now it seemed his daughter had assumed the task. Lauren’s willingness to help him touched him in that place deep inside reserved only for his child.

  “I like Caty, Dad. She’s fun. Easy on the eyes, too, don’t you think?”

  He’d ignore that comment. Sounded like something a guy would say to another guy, and he didn’t appreciate it. “Glad you think so. I like her, too. She did me a big favor the other night.”

  “By babysitting me, you mean?”

  He shot her a frown. “Did Caty treat you like a babysitter?”

  “No, not that I’ve ever had a babysitter other than Lettie.”

  “You’re not a baby, Lauren. I trusted Caty to keep you safe, and she did. If she hadn’t been willing, I would have sent you somewhere with Cordelia.”

  Lauren giggled. “Delia’s nice and everything, but…” She shook her head. “Not the same thing.” She glanced up at him, her smile disappearing. “Does Caty know about the kidnapping threats?”

  “Yes. I told her on Friday afternoon. It was either that or risk her thinking I was certifiably crazy, based on my behavior.” He was thankful Carson had been able to watch over them while managing to stay out of sight. He’d caught a glimpse of Caty’s youngest brother, and they’d shared a glance and a wave at the mall.

  Lauren seemed surprised. “Caty didn’t say anything. Neither did you. I guess that’s for the best, huh?”

  Caleb nodded. “I think so. For now. Caty’s a strong Christian, and she refuses to give into fear. She believes it’s better to move forward instead of looking over our shoulders, wondering who or what might be out there. That’s the kind of positive attitude we need to adopt.”

  “Yeah. She’s really smart.” Lauren laughed a little. “Not that you’re not.”

  It’d been a testament to Caty’s strength of character that she’d managed to spend time with Lauren and not
let on that she was aware of the threats. They’d found a quiet corner table in one of the mall restaurants and shared a nice meal for the second time that day.

  Lauren stared at him. “Are you afraid, Dad?”

  With a sigh, Caleb moved his hands to his hips, stalling for time as he pondered how to answer her pointed question. Again, she deserved his honest answer. “In some ways, yes, but it’s more the uncertainty of not knowing who’s behind the threats. I hate the fact that we’re both being forced to live like prisoners. You’re not alone in feeling that way.”

  Grabbing the chair by her desk, Caleb straddled it and crossed his arms on the back. “As far as Caty is concerned, relationships need to be honest from the start or they’re doomed to fail.”

  “Are you dating Caty now?”

  “I haven’t known her long enough to be dating her. While it’s true she’s worked for me for five years, I only met her recently for the first time.”

  Lauren gave him a knowing smile. “Now who’s not being straight, Dad? The way I see it, you’ve known Caty long enough to fall in love with her.”

  Shaking his head, Caleb avoided her probing gaze. Not bad for a twelve-year-old. He must be more transparent than he thought for her to see past his emotional walls and straight into his thoughts.

  “Caty is a very special woman. The reason I invited her to dinner here at the house is so that we can get to know each other better. From my perspective, this isn’t just a casual dinner date.”

  “I can tell because you hardly ever go on a date, and you’ve never invited a woman to the house. What am I supposed to do while Caty’s here? I mean, you probably want me to get lost, right? So you can play kissy face with her.” Grabbing two stuffed animals from the shelf above her bed, Lauren smushed their furry faces together and made smacking noises.

  “Very funny. You’re welcome to stay and eat dinner with us.”

  She tossed the animals on the bed. “And then get lost?”

  He chuckled. “I’ll leave that up to you. I don’t know that we’ll be doing any kissing.” That response wasn’t completely honest, either. He enjoyed kissing Caty. Very much. Judging by her impassioned response, she seemed to like kissing him. They were good together and not only in the physical sense.