My mind instantly flashes to my interview with Mr. Sterling and gang. And the pouting that followed.
“I didn’t grow up around here, so no one would know her, but I had a neighbor named Stacie. We were the same age, so we played a lot as kids, and went to the same high school. We stayed connected through our moms when we went to different colleges. Stacie was kind of a tomboy, and definitely like a sister to me. I was engaged to Brooke and home on a visit when my mom gave me an update on Stacie.” He pauses for another water break. “Stacie met someone at the church she was attending and everyone thought they were a great match because they were both Christians. Thing was, that was all they had, and it wasn’t enough. But Stacie didn’t know that. Because a few ladies told her he’d be a great catch, Stacie assumed the guy felt the same way--that they were destined to be together.”
Soft laughter floats throughout the sanctuary.
“Turns out, the guy felt God calling him to be a pastor. He made plans to leave the local college and attend seminary. Before he left, Stacie and this young man hung out a lot. She said their goodbye was more of a ‘See you soon,’ so she took that as confirmation that this man was the one. Her husband-to-be, it would be a short matter of time.”
I think about Ben. I never said goodbye, and learned later he assumed marriage was our future. I’d wounded him. Perhaps a fresh apology is needed.
“Months pass and Stacie kept busy. She was active in church, and went to the library. She told her mom she’s reading up on how to become a pastor’s wife. The church ladies encouraged her, mentored and prayed for her future, the one they were certain involved the young man. That was, until he came home for Thanksgiving break, looking sad. Stacie took her usual seat by him at church and asked, ‘What’s wrong?’” Pastor pauses, and the room is silent. “His reply? He missed his girlfriend, the girl he met the first week of school, the one he planned to propose to. See, no one let him in on the feeling the ladies had, and that Stacie felt, that they would end up together. He thought they were just friends. Stacie ended up devastated, without a plan.”
Shirley McIlwain’s voice echoes. “What happened to her?”
Pastor smiles. “I’m glad you asked. Like I said, she could have been bitter, or better. Stacie chose better. She believed if that guy was nice but not it, how amazing must the man be who God did choose for her? Stacie thanked God for that friendship and for what was to come, even if she didn’t understand it all or know when it would come to pass. Three months later, she caught the bouquet at a wedding and agreed to dance with the best man. The rest is history.” He opens up his Bible. “Whatever circumstances you’re in that have you frustrated or disappointed because it didn’t go like you wanted, know God has something better. His plan for you is perfect, because He is perfect. Let’s open to Jeremiah 29:11.”
The thin pages wrinkle as I find the verse and read it. For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Lord, I want to be better. I don’t want to be thought of as the city-girl anymore. I want to make a difference here. Help me.
There’s a soft tap on my arm. Wayne tilts his head as he gazes at me. “You okay?”
I nod, as the music starts up and Pastor steps forward. “Who is ready to surrender their plans for God’s today?”
A new sensation flutters in my belly. Something almost magnetic draws me toward the front. When I stand and take slow steps to the altar area, the activity inside my stomach feels volcanic.
Brooke greets me with a wide smile. “Trish, can we move to a quiet corner so I may pray for you?”
“I’d like that.” We saunter past the others to somewhere private. “I don’t know what God’s plan is, but I know what it isn’t. I don’t want to be known as the runaway city-girl anymore. I want to make a life here doing what I’m meant to do.”
She reaches for my hand and squeezes it. “Heavenly Father, thank you for speaking to our hearts this morning. Trish is ready to put down all things from the past, including her plans for her life, and submit to Yours. Give her Your wisdom and discernment as she seeks You. Grant her favor that this plan would be revealed to her sooner than later. Help her realize all good things come from You, and the plan You have for her is good. Let her know deep down that You are for her. You are good. You deserve all glory and honor, Father. In Your Precious Son’s name. Amen.”
Her face almost glows as she opens her eyes and lets go of my hand. “Trish, I can’t wait to see what’s next for you. I’ll be praying.”
“Thank you. I really appreciate it.”
As Brooke turns to pray for someone else, I weave through the people up front to return to my seat. Mom dabs her eyes with a tissue and we lock eyes. She’s like a gazelle trying to reach me, and is at my side in seconds.
“Trish. That was such an amazing prayer time. I want you to know first. I believe God’s plan is for your father and me to speed up plans for him to retire. I’m going to be with him full-time. Get ready to run the department store on a permanent basis!”
Chapter Eighteen
After three outfit changes and two cups of coffee, I’m ready to drive to the senior center and emcee the fashion show. My stomach’s been as jumpy as a kid on a trampoline since mom announced they were moving up their retirement date, but the show has my hands shaking, too.
Dad stops me before I back out of the driveway. Once I lower my window, he leans in. “We’re sorry we can’t be at your show today. You’re going to be fantastic.”
I manage a smile. “It’s okay. You two have a lot to accomplish. We hired a great part-timer, so the store’s in good hands. Hopefully, the show will be, too.”
“Be careful. I heard the weather report on the radio forecasting our first December storm. It’s supposed to start this afternoon.”
I nod and wave as he walks to the house. Okay, God. I really need Your peace today.
Jenna’s already on the stage working with the microphone when I arrive. Our clothing complements each other with her red dress and my forest green pants suit. Once she looks up, she gestures for me to join her. “Do you want coffee? There are bagels in the breakroom. Ben should be delivering light refreshments any minute for the show.”
“I’m too nervous to eat right now. Maybe later. Are the models ready?”
She bites her lip. “I hope so. At the quick rehearsal Wednesday, they didn’t know their cues or where to stand. It could be interesting.”
I breathe deep and focus on relaxing my shoulders. “It’s going to be okay. God’s got this.”
Jenna walks over and gives a quick hug. “Thanks, Trish. I get a little hyper during events. You’re right. Not only does God have this, He has us.”
“What do you need help with? Should I visit the women in the dressing room and see if they need help? Decorations?”
She looks to the door and clears her throat. “Actually, there is something. Ben’s here with the food. Can you help unpack everything and set it up?”
I turn and notice that not only is Ben coming through the front door with boxes of cookie tins, Jenna’s younger sister, Meg, is next to him. I face Jenna and cross my arms. “You want me to talk to Meg, don’t you?”
Jenna’s laugh comes out as a nervous twitter. “I owe you.”
With a sigh, I join Ben and Meg at the table Jenna marked off for refreshments. “Hey, guys.”
Meg looks up, her ponytail swings as she takes a cookie tin out of the box. “Hi, Trish. Congrats on being the emcee. It should be fun.”
Ben nods. “Yeah. Break a leg, Trish.” He chuckles for a moment. “Excuse me for a second. Jenna’s waving at me.”
Meg and I stack cookie tins on the table and discard boxes without saying anything. After the tins are all out, I open them and place the cookies on trays. “So, how do you like it in Speculator Falls?”
She pauses and faces me. “I love it. I miss Mom and Dad, but everyone is so nice.”<
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“Are you working?”
She resumes putting cookies on plates. “I moved here after the school year started, so I’m subbing. My hope is to find a permanent teaching job in the area next year. Kyle said he’d keep an eye out for any postings, so I’m hopeful.”
Ah, the open door Jenna hopes I’ll run through. “Kyle, huh? What’s that about, if you don’t mind me asking.”
She shakes her head. “It’s fine. He’s a good friend. I know a lot of people don’t like him. I mean, Ben definitely has a lot to say about how I should never trust Kyle, but he’s been so helpful. A lot of people that I try to befriend talk about Jenna all the time, and I want people to like me for me, you know?”
I definitely know what it feels like to compare myself to Jenna, and feel like I constantly fall short. “That’s understandable. Did you know I dated him?”
She crumbles a cookie in her hand. “Jenna mentioned it.”
“He was a rebound in one of my breakups with Ben when I was in college. I was looking for attention, and Kyle gave it. For a while, anyway.”
Meg brushes crumbs off her hands. “I don’t understand.”
“He needed local connections to achieve some goals his dad gave him. He got close to me to befriend my dad. I felt used, and hurt. Worst of all, I thought he really cared and there was something between us, so I gave Kyle everything he was asking me for.”
Please don’t make me explain.
Her eyebrows raise. “Oh. Well, he hasn’t been anything like that with me.”
“Good. Meg, you’re an adult. I don’t know you well, but you seem to have a good head on your shoulders. Just be careful.”
Her smile is genuine. “Thanks, Trish. I will. Even if Jenna probably put you up to this.”
An hour later, decorations are up, refreshments are out, and the seniors are ready. I have notecards in my sweaty hands, trying not to smudge them.
Jenna runs her fingers through her auburn waves. “Okay, time to start. I’ll welcome everyone and introduce you. Ready?”
“Let’s do this.”
She walks onto the stage to applause and whistles. “Welcome to the Speculator Falls Senior Center Fashion Show. We have several lovely models ready to walk the runway, clothes courtesy of the Speculator Falls Department store. The store’s assistant manager is our emcee tonight. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Trish Maxwell!”
The clapping surprises me as I join Jenna on stage. I look into the crowd and see Wayne, whistling. Even Shirley attempts a mediocre welcome. In the back toward the exit, stands Brad and Jill in uniform. They aren’t even smiling.
I don’t need their approval. The audience applause is enough.
“Thank you, everyone. The department store is excited to partner with the senior center, and you will love our models and their beautiful clothes. Before we begin, make sure you check your program tonight. Each of you should have a coupon for the store, perfect for your Christmas shopping.” I pause when I hear papers rustle and audience whispers. “Now, let’s start with ski wear…”
Forty-five minutes later, Jenna squeezes me in a bear hug backstage. “Trish, you were fantastic. This was a huge success. Fred and Janice said this was the best event the center’s ever had.”
Even Dora Parks looks like a vision of winter in her fleece outfit. “The seniors were amazing. They did all the work.”
Before Jenna responds, Wayne, holding a dozen roses, bursts through the curtain. “Trish, that was so good. Jenna, your seniors were naturals.” He hands me the flowers and plants a kiss on my cheek.
“Thanks, Wayne. I have to find Ben, all this excitement has left me tired. I’m ready to go home. You two have a great night.” Jenna winks and exits.
I clutch the flowers and inhale their intoxicating fragrance. “You’re too sweet. Thank you for coming, and for these.”
“Can I take you to dinner? Jack Frosty’s?”
“That sounds perfect. I was so nervous before the show I couldn’t eat. I’m famished.”
He sneaks another quick kiss. “I’ll go start the car and get your coat.”
I nod and saunter toward the small crowd that’s left. Shirley waves me over. “Trish. It was a fun time tonight. You and Jenna make a great team.”
A lump forms in my throat. “Thank you. That means a lot.”
She nods and pats my arm. “So, you sticking around town this time?”
The twinkle in her eye captures my heart. “It seems that way.”
She offers a wide smile before heading toward the coat area. “Good.”
Before I can bask in that kind exchange, Brad steps right in my path. “Nice show. Glad no one had a heart attack or anything.” His smarmy grin gives me a chill.
“Merry Christmas, Brad. I have to go. Someone is waiting for me.”
His smirk remains. “Wait. I want to give you an early present.”
“I really need to leave.” I start to turn when he grasps my wrist.
“Jill doesn’t like you. At all. She’s mad that she got written up, and blames you.”
I shake my hand free. “Jill caused her own problem there. Wayne caught her breaking patient confidentiality.”
“I’m not done. She had a thing for Wayne, maybe still does. In her mind, her trouble started when he started hanging around you. Be careful.”
“Why are you so interested?”
He reaches into his pocket and pulls out his keys. “It’s no secret I like you. I know, you and Wayne are a thing. But if that doesn’t work, I’m here. And I want you to remember, I have your back.”
Wayne saunters to my side with coat in hand. “Everything okay?”
Brad shrugs. “Just wishing Trish a Merry Christmas.”
Chapter Nineteen
Wayne grips my hand tightly as we walk toward JB’s Plaza for the tree lighting. “You’re sure Brad didn’t do anything out of line? He was on duty at the fashion show. I could have him written up.”
Jill and Brad facing discipline after chatting with me? No, thanks.
I pause and surprise him with a quick kiss, but he returns the unexpected by pulling me close and extending the embrace until I gasp. “Who needs winter attire when you’re around? I’m ready to throw my hat in the bonfire Ben started.”
Wayne chuckles and gently wraps my hand around his and lays it against his forearm as we stroll to the outdoor Christmas displays. “You’re changing the subject, but I appreciate the compliment.”
The closer we are to the plaza, the more people surround us. “You’re a great protector, Wayne. Brad’s got an ego, but there’s one thing he doesn’t have that you do.”
Wayne raises his eyebrows. “What’s that?”
I try to couple my declaration with flirtation, with a bat of my eyelashes and a huskier voice. “My adoration.”
Wayne seems impressed nonetheless, and gestures for me to follow him away from the displays and closer to the woods where we’d be alone. “What are you doing? Dad’s going to look for me if I’m late for the tree lighting.”
Wayne sobers, clasping both my hands as he looks to the sky. Is he praying?
I squeeze his hand. “I was just being silly a moment ago. You can ignore me.”
He smiles, and even with darkness starting to envelop us, I can see his bright eyes exuding nothing but warmth. “Trish, I don’t want to ignore you. It’s been extra busy lately and I know with your tree lighting duties tonight my timing’s lousy, but…”
My heart feels like it’s in a tightening vise. My throat constricts. “What is it?”
“You said you adore me.”
If my heartbeat were attached to a monitor, I’d probably short circuit the machine. “Was that wrong? I was kidding. I wanted you to know Brad is nothing. He wishes he could be like you. That’s what I meant.”
“I know, sweetheart. You’re too good to me. I can’t tell you how long I’ve prayed to have someone in my life besides Noah who would encourage me like you do.”
I tak
e a step closer, resting my hand on his chest. “I feel the same. Just the other day I was telling Jenna…”
Before I could finish, he leaned down and brushed his lips against mine for another lingering kiss. When he moved back, his voice was shaky. “Trish, I love you. I’ve wanted to say it for a while, but I didn’t want to scare you. This is not a crush and it’s not something I’ve ever felt before. I am completely in love with you.”
My jaw drops, and my hands tremble. Before I respond, a loudspeaker from JB’s booms throughout the plaza. It’s so loud everyone pauses, including us.
“Trish Maxwell, come to the Christmas displays. Your dad is looking for you.”
With a sigh, I reach for Wayne’s hand and head for the plaza once again. “We’ll continue this later.” I lean in and quickly whisper, “But I feel the same.”
Twenty minutes after we greet Dad at the displays, the crowd gathers to hear the high school choir sing Christmas carols and for Sara Bivins to deliver remarks as mayor.
Sara adjusts the microphone to suit her short stature. “Speculator Falls has ushered the Christmas season with a tree lighting ceremony since 1980 when my husband, John, strung the first lights on some trees he decorated outside the store. It’s a wonderful tradition that we’re happy to share throughout the generations. Tonight we have one of our own born-and bred-residents, Trish Maxwell, here to do the honors. Trish?”
I step forward and once again, hear clapping. A girl could get used to this. As I join her on stage, I notice Shirley whistling and clapping. Her gesture so sweet, it catches me off guard and I start to choke up. “Thank you, everyone. When Dad asked me to consider being the representative to turn on the displays, I confess, I didn’t feel worthy. As a little girl, it seemed like the people chosen for that honor had made great strides to make Speculator Falls a success.”
Noah cups his hands around his mouth. “You’re a success, Trish!”
My cheeks warm with all the attention. “Thank you. It is an honor to participate tonight, because Christmas is a time of celebration and rejoicing. I can’t think of any place I’d rather be, or any group of people, than with my friends here. So, let’s start the season with light!”
Engaged: Surrendering the Future (Surrendering Time Book 3) Page 10