Georgia Sweethearts

by Missy Tippens

  “Dad...”

  “That young woman out front loves you. And you’re blowing it. All because of my mistakes—mistakes God has been and is still revealing to me.”

  Daniel couldn’t bear the sorrow and regret on his dad’s face. So many years of wasted time. To avoid confronting his dad’s grief, Daniel leaned his forearms on his thighs and stared at the concrete floor.

  He had planned to put down some kind of floor covering before leaving.

  “Daniel, look at me.”

  He lifted his head and stared into eyes that mirrored his—the same blue, the same shape...the same sadness.

  “Son, I’ve been wrong so many times. But God has forgiven me for the damage I’ve caused. And now I’d like to move forward. To help you move past it, too. Before you ruin your chance for happiness with Lilly.”

  “Let’s not make this about Lilly. It’s about me moving on to the next job, to do what I do best.”

  Blake grimaced and shook his head. “You have to follow your heart and trust in love despite the example I set. Don’t let fear stand in your way.”

  “Fear? You want to talk about fear?” Anger shot through his veins, making him want to punish the man who’d checked out and left Daniel scared and alone. Did his dad think a few motivational words could make up for years of worry and feeling as if he’d failed? “How about my fear of coming home and finding you’d left for good? Or the fear of never living up to your ridiculously high expectations. Oh, and then don’t forget the constant fear of letting everyone down as badly as I let you down when I couldn’t pull you out of your depression.”

  Afraid he might say something worse, he stalked out of his office and straight out the back door. He headed into the woods, barreling blindly along a narrow path. When he reached a fallen tree, he stopped to catch his breath. He walked across the tree and sat on it, his back toward the church, his dad, his life.

  Yes, Daniel was angry. His dad had deserted him when his mother died.

  And now I’m deserting Lilly. I’m no better than my father.

  He dropped his head into his hands. “I don’t want to move away.” There, he’d said it out loud, even if it was only to himself. He didn’t want to leave Corinthia.

  Lord, have I been mistaken? Because I admit right now, I don’t want to leave Lilly. It doesn’t feel right to leave her, the kids, the church.

  Have I latched onto my church-starting ministry out of fear of getting attached to people I might lose? Like some kind of lonely eight-year-old boy?

  He leaned over and grabbed a stick. Scraped away leaves and moss and rotted bits of plants, revealing the fresh, rich soil below. Lord, help me shove away all the junk, all the baggage. Help me to see You and Your perfect will.

  For so long he’d tried to plan and do everything on his own, thinking he was following God’s will. When in reality, he was following his own will, doing what felt safe and comfortable.

  God, is it time to stick around for a while? What should I do?

  The words wait and listen flitted through his mind and began to take root.

  “Wait and listen?”

  He sat a while, hoping for a lightning bolt of insight. But nothing happened. No audible commands from God. No brilliant ideas about a new plan.

  Wait and listen.

  Well, he couldn’t wait here all day. He needed to go back inside. To apologize to his dad for lashing out when his dad had been trying to change, to ask for forgiveness.

  He headed up the path to return to his office and found his dad coming toward him. They stopped with a couple feet between them. A bird whistled a happy song in a nearby tree.

  “I can’t expect you to forget your painful childhood,” Blake said. “But I’m hoping that someday you’ll be able to forgive me.”

  Daniel had to forgive his father. God expected it. And it was time. Time to give it up and let it go if he ever wanted a chance at happiness. “I’ll forgive you. With God’s help.” The words came easier than he expected, and left him feeling a sense of release. It wouldn’t be easy to let go of the past, but forgiveness was a start.

  Maybe he needed to offer the same chance to his dad. “I hope you’ll forgive me for lashing out.”

  Blake came closer and gave Daniel’s shoulder a squeeze. “Thank you. I forgive you, too.” His dad gave a tentative smile. “Son, you’re a good man. And I truly think God brought you and Lilly here at the same time, brought you together for a reason. Don’t be afraid of loving her. Of allowing her to love you.”

  God had certainly changed Blake Foreman. He could change Daniel, as well—if Daniel would give control over to Him. Maybe God would equip him to be a good pastor on a permanent basis. Would equip him to be a good husband...one who could risk loving, risk staying.

  He looked into his father’s eyes, and for the first time felt a release from the anger. “Thank you for speaking the truth.”

  Wait and listen.

  Daniel nearly gasped as he realized the gift God had given him, had given them.

  “And, Dad, thank you for being here when I needed you.”

  Tears flooded his dad’s eyes. His lip trembled. “Thank you for allowing me. I’m proud to call you my son.”

  Words Daniel had longed his whole life to hear. He reached out and met his father’s embrace.

  Lord, strengthen me to be the man this community needs. To be the man Lilly needs. Because I listened, and it looks like I’m staying.

  Chapter Fifteen

  Lilly flipped over the page on the calendar. May had arrived. Daniel would be leaving soon.

  She fought to reject the sadness, the despair. Said a quick prayer for strength. Each day was getting better. She could manage.

  Lilly shut the computer, relieved to see The Yarn Barn’s month had ended in the black once again. By the time she and Jenna sold the store, she could feel good about what they’d accomplished.

  Looking around the shop, she witnessed the signs of a thriving community. The ancient coffeepot half-full. The various ceramic mugs regulars had left. A skein of yarn Flo had forgotten but would pick up tomorrow.

  She had developed a routine. A routine she loved and would miss.

  No. No time for doubt or regret. Jenna and Ned were doing better. She felt certain they’d be fine. When the time came for her to leave Corinthia, she could move on knowing she’d accomplished all she’d set out to do while here.

  When she got to Louisville, she would make finding a church home a priority. New friends, new church family, new career, new life with God in charge. Yes, she could do—

  The shop door opened and the bells sounded. Oh, brother. She’d forgotten to lock the door and flip the open sign to Closed.

  She sighed as she headed that direction. “I’m sorry, but we’re closed.”

  “I’m not here to buy anything.”

  Her heart surged at the sound of Daniel’s voice. Hadn’t he said those very words the first time she had met him?

  She stopped in her tracks and veered behind the checkout counter. Silly, but it afforded her a bit of security, a sense of separation.

  His footsteps continued toward the gathering area. “Lilly?”

  “I’m over here.” She quickly flipped open the computer and acted busy, even as her face flamed. She was sure she wouldn’t fool him for a moment, but she didn’t know how else to handle facing him alone. No buffer like the teens or Jenna.

  She sensed him standing across the counter. When he didn’t say anything, she forced herself to look up.

  He looked exhausted, with dark circles and beard stubble, as if he’d been up for days. He stood there smiling—tentative, yet something in his eyes held...tenderness?

  His expression ripped at her heart, causing further damage. She couldn’t bear it. “Did you need s
omething?”

  “Yes.” He swallowed. “I need to say I’m sorry.”

  Her heart went into a slow rhythm that sent blood whooshing in her ears.

  “I really messed up. Because I’ve been afraid.”

  Dizziness made her sway. She gripped the countertop. “What?”

  “I—” He took a step toward the end of the counter and stopped. “Can I come over there?” He thunked the countertop. “I really hate this thing.”

  She wasn’t sure she could handle being so close. She needed to stay strong no matter his crazy talk. “We’re fine where we are.”

  He gave a firm nod, jamming his hands in his pockets. The tender look was gone. Now Daniel looked outright scared. “It’s hard to stay away from you when I have so much to say.”

  Resist. Don’t ask. “Like what?” she blurted.

  “Like the fact that, lately, I’ve let old hurts color my decisions for the future. I’ve made my own plans, living in my comfort zone, rather than truly depending on God for direction.”

  Oh, my! screeched through her mind, yet she stood calmly, listening and waiting. Could he be talking about his plan to move?

  “I haven’t had much sleep the last few days. Have been thinking and praying. My dad and I talked, really talked. He showed me that I’ve been afraid of loving, of depending on others. No matter what I’ve told myself, I haven’t trusted God’s plan.”

  She managed an understanding nod. Her heart soared, because she thought she knew where this conversation might be going. But she didn’t dare hope. Couldn’t dare let feelings take over. She had to remain levelheaded. “So do you see God leading you another direction?”

  Oh, Lord, please let him say You’ve led him in this direction!

  The world’s sweetest smile formed on his beautiful lips. Not the heart-stopping charmer smile. But a smile that warmed her to her toes. A smile that made her feel loved...cherished.

  “Definitely another direction,” he said. “The first direction is to the other side of this counter you’re so good at using as a shield.”

  She bit back her own grin. “Can you blame me? I’ll have you know this sales counter has served me nicely since that first night you came waltzing in here spouting off ideas about moving your church into the basement.”

  “You’ve been smart to protect yourself from me. But now I’m hoping we can both tear down the walls we’ve put up.” He walked to the end of the counter but stopped, waiting for her invitation. “I think it’s time for us to follow God’s plan. Risky as it may seem to us.”

  Could she do it? Could she blow caution to the wind and step into a life she’d only dared dream of?

  Jenna had stepped out in faith, claiming her happiness despite the fear. Maybe the time had come for Lilly to start dreaming again.

  Surely she could, with God calling the shots.

  Warmth infused her body, as if God Himself was pouring His love down on her, giving her courage.

  She held out her hand, inviting Daniel.

  He came to her and drew her into his arms. “I love you, Lilly.”

  She closed her eyes and breathed in his scent she’d missed so badly. “Oh, Daniel...I thought I’d never hear those words.”

  “I’ve spent the last several days talking with the church here and the one in Valdosta. I’m staying here in Corinthia. Please say you’ll stay, too.”

  She pulled back far enough to look into his eyes—eyes that had grown so dear to her.

  Overwhelming love, relief...and trepidation warred inside her.

  “I sold a magazine article. I’ve been offered a position at a magazine in Louisville.”

  Concern filled his eyes. “I see.”

  “I don’t want to give up on my dream career.”

  “You won’t have to. You can do freelance work from home. Maybe hire someone to run the yarn shop. Would the magazine let you set up base here in Corinthia?”

  How had she ever thought she could leave him? “I imagine I could make it work.”

  “I can’t promise I won’t make dumb mistakes or won’t hurt you. But I can promise I’ll do my best.” He gently cupped her face in his large, capable hands. “Please don’t leave me.”

  He said the last as if whispering a prayer.

  She saw a lifetime of fear in his eyes. But he was making a commitment to her. To stay. To try.

  That was all she could ask.

  It was the least she could do, as well. “I’ll stay.” Joy burst through her. She threw her arms around his neck. “Yes! I’ll stay. But I’ll have to let our buyer know. We already signed an agreement.”

  He laughed as his lips closed in on hers.

  All thoughts of business fled as his warm lips touched hers, tenderly, almost reverently.

  Wrapped in his arms, she knew they could face anything as long as they were together.

  Epilogue

  Lilly walked in Frank’s Pizza Place ready to do battle.

  The representative for the investment company buying The Yarn Barn had informed the owners of the company that Lilly and Jenna wanted to back out of the deal, and apparently, one of the owners had refused, citing their signed agreement. The rep did say the owner might make a deal if she’d meet with him.

  She figured the man didn’t have a leg to stand on, but she didn’t want the hassle of hiring a lawyer to handle it. So she had set up the appointment.

  She planned to win him over...with pizza. She figured she could play hardball with the best of them, and trying to use a little of Daniel’s charm couldn’t hurt, either.

  She’d armed herself in her best navy skirt and blazer. Crisp white blouse. Midheeled, businesslike beige pumps. She walked into Frank’s with purpose, briefcase in hand. Trying to look confident, prepared.

  And there sat Daniel.

  She glanced around the dining room, searching for a strange man in a suit.

  “Oh, hey, Lilly,” Frank called from beside the oven. “Daniel’s at your regular table.”

  As much as she treasured those words, this wasn’t the time. She gave Frank a quick wave and then hurried over to Daniel.

  He’d been her rock the past few weeks. They’d been inseparable. She’d been happier than ever, except for this meeting hanging over her head.

  She wanted this ordeal over. “I’m glad you came to support me, but I’d rather you leave. He’s supposed to be here any minute.”

  “I am here.”

  She looked at him, confused. “Yes, of course you are. Now leave.”

  “Have a seat, Ms. Barnes. You’re right on time for our meeting.”

  “Daniel, quit playing around. I have...” Mischief gleamed in his eyes making her forget what she was about to say. He was up to something. “What have you done? Did you contact the guy?”

  He pulled out a chair for her. Once she was seated, he returned to his seat and leaned his arms on the table. “When you decided to sell and move away, I knew I had to do something. I figured you’d regret selling. And then what would you do when you realized you wanted to move back here to be near your family and friends?”

  Shock made her spine snap up straight. “What are you saying?”

  “I went to my dad for financial help. The two of us partnered to buy the shop in case you changed your mind.”

  She grabbed his hand. “Are you serious? You’re the investment company?”

  He nodded, a crooked, beautiful, beloved smile on his face.

  After taking a few seconds to let the truth sink in, she burst out laughing. “I should be mad at you! I’ve been so stressed about this deal.”

  He gave her a smirk. “Well, I still ha
ve rights to buy it.”

  “You think you do, huh?”

  “Although, I’ve been thinking...the shop would make the perfect wedding gift from me to you.”

  She held her breath as her stomach swooped to her feet.

  He got up and came around the table. Went down on one knee.

  “Daniel?” A nervous giggle escaped.

  He presented a ring box with the most exquisite diamond ring she’d ever seen. It looked like an estate piece.

  “Oh, my. Was that your mother’s?”

  Tears moistened his eyes. He nodded. “Lilly, I love you and want to spend my life with you. Will you marry me?”

  Lord, thank You.

  She wanted to be his wife more than anything in the world. But she had to tease him a little, especially since he’d let her worry for the past few weeks. She put a saucy look on her face. “I don’t know, Daniel. This seems a lot like a bribe to me.”

  Undeterred, he said, “I prefer to think of it as an incentive.” He grinned at her, totally sure of himself. The charmer once again.

  Laughter bubbled up and out from the deepest wounded part of her, a part that now felt healed and complete. Why torture him any more when she wanted this more than life itself? She wiggled the fingers of her left hand in front of him, demanding he put the ring on her. “Of course I’ll marry you.”

  He slid the ring in place, then stood as he pulled her to her feet and gathered her in his arms. “I’m ready for a wedding as soon as you’ll have me.”

  She knew she was ready, as well. To build their yarn shop business, their ministry and their life together.

  * * * * *

  Keep reading for an excerpt from Rancher's Refuge by Linda Goodnight.

  Dear Reader,

  Thank you so much for hanging out with me again for this third story in the fictional town of Corinthia, Georgia! I hope you enjoyed Lilly and Daniel’s journey to happiness.