Gated

by Amy Christine Parker

  Now the sun is only a thin sliver of light lingering along the prairie’s edge. I watch as it finally gives up the day and disappears. The world grows very still—as if it’s waiting too, as if it’s still deciding what it wants to do. No one moves. We just stand close to one another and watch the sky.

  Gradually the stars come out, one by one until there are too many of them to count. The day has officially ended and we are still here. I smile a little and so does Will, but there is no cheer from the crowd, no sigh of relief, only quiet acceptance.

  I take Will’s hand in mine. Together, we continue to study the stars overhead. The sky’s encrusted with them. I’d almost forgotten how clear they could be out here, away from the lights of the town.

  I used to think they were portals that the Brethren used to watch us. Now I think there probably aren’t any Brethren at all. I’m not sure if knowing this comforts me or not. What I do know is that looking into a sky like this one gives me hope. If a sky this dark can still be peppered with so much light, maybe this world can be too.

  First let me say that I wouldn’t have had the courage to embark on this journey had it not been for my husband, Jay. You never once doubted my writing ability (or at least you had the decency not to tell me) and worked two jobs for years so I could focus on this dream. I’ll love you forever and always. It’s your turn now, honey.

  Many thanks to:

  My daughters, Samantha and Riley, who remind me daily what life’s all about and who can make me laugh even on the worst of days. You are the two halves that make up my heart.

  My parents, Tom and Peggy Williams, for being there whenever I’ve needed you and for naming me after a book character because somehow you always knew I’d love stories. I’m glad I finally listened to you and gave this writing thing a try.

  My brother, Tom Williams, and his wife, Erika, for gamely reading this book and the one that came before it. Your support means the world to me.

  My in-laws, Alan and Trish Poe, who happily volunteered for playdates with my girls while I toiled, and endured many a conversation on writing with me.

  My agent, Lucienne Diver, who will always be my version of a fairy godmother. You are brilliant at making dreams come true.

  Suzy Capozzi, who loved this book more than I dared hope anyone would.

  My editor, Chelsea Eberly, for taking me on and making me feel comfortable from that very first phone call. I’m lucky to have you.

  Mallory Loehr for your support and guidance.

  Nicole de las Heras for a cover that made me gasp in a good way when I saw it.

  The rest of the Random House team for working tirelessly on this book.

  My critique partners: Stefanie Jones, who demanded that there be kissing—Cody and Lyla’s hospital “date” is for you; Krystalyn Drown, who has the decency to call me on every weak plot point and challenges me to do better; and Jennifer Baker, who not only improved this book exponentially but also shared recipes and encouragement in equal measure. Ladies, you rock.

  The Gunning for Awesome girls who are experts at cheerleading and consoling: Gemma Cooper, Corinne Duyvis, Lacey Edwards, Deborah Hewitt, Michelle Krys, Lori Lee, Ruth Stevens, Amy Tintera, Kim Welchons, Stephanie Winkelhake, and last but definitely not least Natalie Parker, who helped me figure out where this book truly began and emphatically urged me to KEEP GOING.

  Tessa Gratton, who took me under her wing.

  The Abbreviated Writers’ Group of Wesley Chapel. Every writer needs a safe place to grow. This was mine.

  Early readers: Andrea McBride, Jane Juran, Cheryl Van Beek, Diana Geller, Vincent Sultenfuss, and Nancy Haines. Your advice and companionship carried me through.

  Kurt Wilt and Patrick Crerand for teaching me how to write purposefully and for showing up to help fledgling writers every other Thursday for years. FOR FREE. You give professors a good name, gentlemen.

  Last, all my thanks and praise go to God for blessing me with this wonderful, beautiful life that I lead. It’s so much more than I could’ve ever imagined.

  AMY CHRISTINE PARKER earned her degree in elementary education at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida, and then proceeded to try out many different jobs, including collectible doll maker, fondue waitress, and inner-city schoolteacher. It wasn’t until she became a mom and began making up bedtime stories for her children that she finally realized what she was meant to do. Now Amy writes full-time from her home near Tampa, Florida, where she lives with her husband, their two daughters, and one ridiculously fat cat.

  Visit her at amychristineparker.com.