The Way of Grace (Miller's Creek Novels)

by Bryant, Cathy

  She laughed, removed the small cubic zirconia knock-offs, and replaced them with the earrings Jason offered, surprised at their weight.

  Jason smiled his approval and offered his elbow once more. “Shall we?” After he seated her in his luxurious sports car, he moved around to the other side and eased into the seat.

  Grace faced him. “You have my curiosity up. Where are we going?”

  “There’s a political fundraiser at the Morganville Expo Center for the Attorney General while he’s in town. I feel very fortunate to have snagged such a lovely dinner date and companion. Hope you enjoy this evening as much as I know I will.”

  Grace leaned her head back against the black leather seat as they sped out of town. Enjoy? After the happenings of the past two weeks, this felt like utter decadence.

  Within a half hour, Grace descended a flight of stairs leading into a large carpeted foyer lit by enormous chandeliers. The relaxing sound of stringed instruments played softly in the background and the aroma of fresh seafood drifted to her nose. She clutched Jason’s arm and her red handbag more tightly and prayed she wouldn’t lose her footing in the stiletto heels and tumble headfirst to the floor below. Below them, people turned heads their way. “Why is everyone staring at us?”

  Jason leaned in close, his lips near her ear. “They’re all wondering who the stunning woman is accompanying me. Relax and smile. They just want to know who you are.”

  Of course. She was with Jason Dent, probably the most eligible bachelor within five hundred miles. It made sense that they’d want to know who was with him. “Did I mention how grateful I am for the pleasure of spending this evening with you?” She spoke the words through a pasted-on smile.

  He laughed and smiled into her eyes, resting his hand on hers. “Trust me, the pleasure is all mine.”

  Before the dinner and concert portion of the evening started, Grace lost count of all the important people she met—state senators and congressman as well as a couple of U. S. senators. What amazed her most was how at ease she felt. Maybe it was the clothes and make-up, or perhaps it was having a man like Jason as her escort, but she somehow managed to carry on intelligent conversation without fear or trepidation.

  She blinked. Now, here she was, sitting next to the man of her dreams while he lavished his attention on her. All through the evening he’d been a perfect gentleman, had anticipated her every need, and been quick to provide. An irresistible urge to pinch herself flashed through her consciousness. Was she dreaming? If so, she never wanted to awaken.

  A troubling thought crossed her mind, and brought a frown with it. In spite of the wonderful evening, she had to hold back, wary of succumbing to Jason’s charm and persuasion. While part of her wanted to relax and enjoy the enchantment, a deeper part pulled on invisible reins.

  They dined on lobster, asparagus spears, and potatoes au gratin followed by a creamy tiramisu for dessert. The orchestral performance by a string ensemble from Dallas only added to the magical aura. Before she knew it, the evening came to a close. Grace stood with the rest of the audience to applaud the orchestra, and then squinted against the glare as the house lights were brought up.

  Jason placed his hand in the small of her back. “So did you enjoy tonight?”

  Happy laughter fell from her mouth. “How could I not? Thank you for a lovely evening.” She gathered her evening bag from the table, where a centerpiece of fragrant roses spilled their perfume into the air. As they turned to leave a familiar voice sounded.

  “Gracie?” Andy stood nearby, Trish on one arm. Questions glistened in his eyes. Next to them were Ben Snodgrass and a woman she’d never met. Andy’s gaze focused on her. “You look quite different, Gracie. I almost didn’t recognize you.” His eyes now traveled to her date for the evening. “Hey, Jason. Thought I might see you here.”

  Palpable tension hung in the air. Even Jason seemed slightly uncomfortable in the awkward moment, though he quickly masked his discomfort with a good-natured grin, and patted Grace’s hand. “I couldn’t pass up the opportunity of spending the evening with this lovely young woman, now could I?”

  Grace made the mistake of glancing at Andy. There was no mistaking his displeasure. Defensiveness roared inside. Why should it matter to him that she was out with Jason? Did he really view her as the enemy?

  As if things weren’t already tense enough, Elena swept into their midst, her gold lame dress rustling. “Well, well, if it isn’t Andy Tyler and his cohorts. My, Grace, but you do clean up well. That outfit must’ve set you back a pretty penny.”

  “I—uh, that is—”

  Jason stepped in to save her. “She’s been turning heads all evening.”

  Disgust etched on her features, Elena moved her focus to Grace, making no attempt to disguise the hostility in her eyes. Then just as quickly, she moved onto the woman standing beside Ben, her voice now exuding friendliness. “I’ve met Mr. Snodgrass and Mrs. Tyler, but I don’t think I’ve had the pleasure of meeting you. I’m Elena Delgado.” She extended a hand.

  “Deborah Rowe, the new attorney with Andy’s firm.”

  Grace trembled with pent-up emotion, the realization of all that could have been hers hitting her squarely in the face. How unfair that in her attempt to protect those she loved, she’d lost out on so much.

  Jason must have noticed her sudden distress, for he tucked her hand more securely in the crook of his elbow and covered it with his own, at the same time moving closer to her side as if to provide a place for her to lean. “Well, it’s been lovely chatting with you all, but we’d best be getting on.”

  A few minutes later, after Jason made sure she was seated comfortably in the passenger seat of his sports car, he climbed in the driver’s side and easily maneuvered their way through traffic. Soon they sped down the two-lane highway that led to Miller’s Creek.

  “So glad you enjoyed the evening.” Jason’s velvet voice was particularly sonorous, as she gazed out the window at the moon and stars, the fields bathed in beautiful light.

  She leaned her head back against the seat and turned his way with a smile. “I feel like I should pinch myself to see if I’m dreaming.”

  He gave a slow lazy laugh. “You’re not dreaming, but after seeing how beautiful you look tonight, I wonder if I am.”

  Grace didn’t know how to respond.

  “Please accept my apologies if I was too forward.”

  She placed a hand on his arm. “Not at all. I’m just not used to looking or feeling like this. I don’t quite know how to act.”

  He smiled at her through the dim light of the car’s interior. “You’ve definitely shown a different side of yourself tonight, and I must confess I’m intrigued. You handled yourself so professionally. Do you realize how many influential people you hobnobbed with tonight?

  She laughed. “I know. It’s been unbelievable. I wish it would never end.”

  He grew silent a moment. “I feel the same. I just wish we could erase the confrontation that occurred before we left. You were understandably upset.”

  A heavy sigh rushed from her mouth before she could contain it. “Thanks for coming to my rescue.” She paused, unsure if she could trust him with her thoughts and feelings. “Life’s so unfair sometimes.”

  “Yes, it often is.” His comment was so cut and dried and formal—so British. “Unfortunately, we have no control over what happens to us. We only can control our response to it.”

  “What a wise thing to say.” She hadn’t expected him to have such depth.

  He glanced toward her, his face illuminated by the moon and lights from the dashboard. “You’ve had a difficult week, haven’t you?”

  “Yes, it’s been a real winner.”

  “Pardon me if I’m being too forward, but do you feel like you were set up by Elena Delgado?”

  Something about the question unnerved her, and an invisible wall rose around her heart. She thought through the question. Yes, Elena had masterfully manipulated her into doing something she wouldn�
��t ordinarily do, and had done so for the purpose of discrediting her. In addition she’d covered her wrongdoing by laying the fault entirely on her shoulders. “I can’t place all the blame on her. I was the one who broke into Andy’s office. She didn’t force me.”

  “It shows great character on your part for taking responsibility for your actions.”

  His words were salve to her bruised spirit. “I wish others could see it that way, but they seem determined to condemn and punish me.” She shifted in her seat so she could see him better. “Aren’t you concerned their perceptions of me will cause them to view you in a negative light? Aren’t you even a tiny bit afraid to be seen with me?”

  He lifted one shoulder casually. “How others perceive me is of little importance. If they do perceive me negatively, they’ll come around in time. But I do care what you think of me.”

  An unexpected chill skittered down her spine and she shivered. “Why?”

  Jason pulled into the driveway, put the car in park, and faced her, his face an enigmatic mask in the moonlight, his eyes completely hooded by his brows. He took hold of one of her hands.

  Grace swallowed against the panic moving from her stomach to her throat. “I mean, you could have your pick of anyone. If I were to see you for the first time in a group of people, I’d never have the nerve to approach you.” She rattled out the words in rapid-chatter mode to cover the electric silence. “So why does what I think matter?”

  He brought his other hand to a ringlet that had escaped her chignon and fingered it for a moment before cupping her face with his palm. “You have no idea how exquisite you are, do you?”

  A shaky breath shuddered out of her as she reached for the door handle. She couldn’t let this happen, not when she cared so much for Matt. “Thank you again, Jason. I’d better get inside. I had a lovely ti—”

  Jason silenced her babble with a kiss that stole her breath.

  Only minutes later, when she once more stood in the safety of the little house, the door locked behind her and currently holding up her weight, did she realize that in the midst of the most fairy-tale-like night she’d ever experienced, she’d completely forgotten to quiz him about her suspicion of a possible connection to Elena.

  Her thoughts flew to the brief moment they’d seen the fiery prosecutor. Jason had seemed uninterested and nonplussed by her shiny dress and scornful comments.

  Grace gave her head a shake and headed to the back to get ready for bed. No need to worry. It was obvious Jason had no relationship at all with Elena.

  Matt attempted a smile for his friends as they left the concert on the first Friday in December, but just couldn’t make it happen. The only thing on his mind was making with contact Gracie, but it was too late in the evening.

  “Wasn’t that just the coolest concert ever?” Derek’s eyes flashed with an energy and excitement Matt envied. “I mean, the way the crowd responded, and we got an invite for next year!” The guy was obviously stoked.

  Other band members added their comments, but Matt had no words. This was so not what he expected. Was it just because he was so worried about Gracie, or was there more? He tried to wrap his head around the question, but finally gave up, his brain too exhausted to form a coherent thought.

  Derek moved into place beside him. “You did an awesome job tonight, Matt. I gotta say I was a little concerned about bringing you on after our first few rehearsals, but you really stepped up to the plate. Glad to have you on board.”

  “Thanks.”

  “We’re headed to a place on the other side of town. Might be able to drum up a future gig. Wanna come?”

  Matt eyed his watch. At midnight? “No, thanks, man. I’m exhausted.”

  His friend nodded agreeably. “Totally understand. We’re scheduled to leave in the morning at ten to get to our next venue. Get some rest, and I’ll see you on the van.” After a friendly slap on the shoulder, Derek hurried to join the rest of the guys as they crossed the street and headed the other direction.

  Matt made his way through the semi-empty streets to the downtown Dallas apartment to crash, his mind still on Gracie. If it weren’t already so late, he’d call Andy to check on her, but it would have to wait until morning. He’d tried her phone again earlier in the day, but still only heard the same old busy signal. Was she okay? She’d been so down when he’d seen her last—over a week ago now--and it hurt to think of her on her own, without a job, and totally stressed over the whole situation.

  In a few short minutes, he reached the old brick building. The sign above the door read Dallas View Lofts, but the cramped apartment provided by their host bore no resemblance to a loft, and the only view was the ramshackle building next door. At least it was better than sleeping on the van.

  He used the spare key Derek had given him to let himself in and checked behind as he entered to make sure he was alone and safe. After he locked the door, Matt snatched his overnight bag from the pile of luggage and headed to the bathroom.

  In spite of low pressure and sparse hot water, the shower did wonders at washing away his worries. Afterwards, Matt located a quiet corner where he wouldn’t be disturbed when the guys came in and unrolled his sleeping bag. Though it was stifling-hot close to the furnace, he opted to sleep inside the bag just in case any critters tried to get cozy during the night.

  Sleep came quicker than expected, but Matt was awakened two hours later when the guys finally made it in, loud and boisterous. There was no going back to sleep, and as the long night wore on he found himself once more praying for Gracie.

  When the first cracks of light filtered through the mini-blinds, Matt crept quietly to the kitchen to make a pot of brew to get rid of his nappy morning breath. He searched the dingy and worn cabinets, but found nothing—no filters, no coffee, not even a coffee maker. He gazed around the space and rubbed his grainy eyes. It figured.

  Careful not to trip over the sleeping bodies of his snoring friends, he tiptoed to the bathroom, dressed, and eased his way out the door to find some breakfast—and at least a potful of coffee. His nose soon located a mom-and-pop joint right down the street, and he inhaled a full breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, hash browns, and biscuits with gravy, then downed another cup of coffee before he called Andy.

  “Yeah, bro. What time is it?” His brother’s words were a drowsy whisper.

  Matt cringed. “Sorry, man. Thought you’d already be up.”

  “Not a problem. You okay?”

  “Guess so.” He opted not to paint a picture of life on the road. “Just wanted to see if you’ve seen Gracie.”

  “Saw her Monday night. She’s doing just fine.”

  Matt’s brows rose. “How so?”

  “Let’s just say you wouldn’t have recognized her in the evening gown and jewels.”

  His brows crinkled so much they hurt. “Huh?”

  Andy let out an exasperated sigh, and Matt could almost picture him a hand through his bed hair. “Don’t mean to bring you down, Matt, but Gracie was with Jason Dent at a high-priced political fundraiser in Morganville dressed in a very expensive dress and even more expensive jewelry, rubbing elbows with some very important people.”

  His chest deflated and his shoulders slumped forward. Well, it certainly hadn’t taken her long to get over her jail trauma. And he’d been worrying and losing sleep for nothing! No wonder her phone was always busy. He imagined her chatting happily on the phone with Jason, and then inhaled a deep breath, forcing himself to cool down. “I’m glad she’s okay.”

  “Well, you’ve sure changed your tune. What happened to keeping her away from Jason?”

  “Did she seem happy?”

  Andy’s brief silence came through loud and clear. “Yeah, come to think of it, she did.”

  The words stabbed his heart, and he closed his eyes against the pain. “In the long run I just want her to be happy and safe. If Jason is as good as everyone in Miller’s Creek seems to think, she’ll be fine.”

  The other end grew quiet once m
ore. Finally, his brother spoke. “Sounds like you’ve given up on her.”

  “Not at all.” Matt blinked against the pinpricks in his eyes. He could never give up on her, no more than he could ever stop loving her. “But I am giving up on the two of us ever being together.”

  19

  “Coming!” Grace sped down the narrow hallway to the front door and yanked it open.

  With one hand in his pocket, Jason clutched a bouquet of fragrant lavender roses. Dressed in an off-white cable sweater, blue jeans, and black leather jacket, he looked like an ad for the latest men’s fragrance. Had she ever seen him dressed so casually? Or looking so good?

  His handsome face broke into an even smile, revealing his perfect white teeth. “There you are. I’ve been trying to call you all day, but your line was busy.” He leaned forward to kiss her cheek and handed her the bouquet at the same time. “Beautiful flowers for a beautiful lady.”

  Her heart pitter-pattered. “They’re gorgeous. Come in.” She stepped aside to let him enter. So many things were going right in her life. If only she could find a job to pay the bills beginning to pile up. And Christmas was just around the corner.

  He gave the room a cursory glance and moved to the sagging sofa beside the scrawny Christmas tree she’d put up yesterday.

  “Have a seat while I put these in water.” As she hurried to the kitchen sink she sent up a quick prayer. Lord, help him not to think less of me because of where I live. Another reason to find a job—to live in a nicer place. She took a vase from beneath the counter, filled it with water, and placed the long stems inside, fluffing out the leaves. “These are so pretty, but you shouldn’t have gone to the expense.”

  “Nonsense.” Jason shoved a crocheted cushion behind his back. “Have you been on the phone all day?”

  She joined him in the living room and sat in Papa’s ratty recliner. “Not at all. It was ringing off the wall the other night, so I unplugged it and forgot to plug it back in.”