The Shadows Trilogy Box Set: A Christian Romance

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The Shadows Trilogy Box Set: A Christian Romance Page 24

by Juliette Duncan


  After Daniel unlocked the door and they were both inside, he pulled her close and kissed her like she’d been wanting him to for so long. She gave herself to him willingly, and revelled in the closeness she’d feared might never have been theirs again.

  Chapter Twenty

  The day after arriving home, Daniel received his notice to attend court on Friday of that week.

  “They didn’t waste any time, did they?” Lizzy said as she stood behind him looking at the piece of paper.

  “No, not at all. Are we ready for this?” Daniel faced her and pulled her onto his lap.

  Lizzy wrapped her arms around his neck, and leaned against him. “I don’t want you to go to jail, Daniel, but we’ll survive it if you do. Maybe they’ll take one look at me and decide to just give you a fine and a suspension. You never know.”

  “I’ll hate it if I’m not around when the baby comes.” He kissed the side of her face, and brushed her hair with the back of his hand.

  Lizzy took his hand and placed it on her tummy. “Here, feel for yourself. I think it’s in training for a marathon the way it’s kicking.”

  Daniel chuckled and agreed.

  The rest of the week was spent catching up on everything, as well as meeting with the solicitor in preparation for Friday’s court hearing, and plenty of Bible study and discussion. Daniel wanted to know everything. Lizzy was amazed at his thirst for the Word, and the way he just didn’t accept what he read without trying to understand what it meant for him.

  Daniel’s body still had some healing to do, so even if he avoided jail time, it was unlikely he’d be able to return to proper work for some time. This knowledge made them take a look at their finances. Their savings had dwindled now that Daniel’s pay had stopped and Lizzy had taken leave without pay. Once her maternity leave payment kicked in, they might just survive for a while, but Daniel would need to find a job. They didn’t even think about what would happen if he went to jail. And they needed to buy another car. The insurance company refused to pay out as Daniel had been charged with driving under the influence.

  “Who’s going to give me a job now?” Daniel asked one night as they sat together discussing their situation. “I couldn’t find one before, so what’s the chance of finding one now?”

  His dejected look brought back memories of the old Daniel and sent a shiver down Lizzy’s spine.

  “You can’t think like that anymore, Daniel. We’ll pray about it and ask God to open some doors. You never know what He’s got in store for you. We just have to trust Him, not only with a job, but also with the court appearance, and with our money. With everything, really. But that doesn’t mean we sit back and wait for Him to wave a magic wand and hand us everything already done. You still need to go out looking for a job, but this time, you know that God’s on your side. Maybe you’ll still get twenty rejections, but you keep going because you know that God has something special for you. And in the meantime, He’ll provide for us, somehow, as long as we’re trusting Him.”

  “You sound so confident, Lizzy. I don’t know if I can be like that.”

  “I just know that God won’t leave us high and dry. He loves us, Daniel, and He’ll look after us.”

  “I do love you, Lizzy.” He pulled her close and kissed her gently.

  Thursday morning, as Daniel was reading aloud from the Bible, Lizzy sat back and rubbed her neck. The change in Daniel had amazed her, and her heart was full of gratitude to God for turning his life around, but she couldn’t help wondering how Daniel would cope when he went back into the real world. Would his new found faith be enough to withstand the pressures he’d face?

  “Hey you, what are you thinking about?” Daniel closed the Bible and looked at Lizzy with a puzzled expression on his face.

  Lizzy looked at him and took a deep breath. They had to talk about it.

  “I was just thinking about how wonderful this week has been, Daniel, but I’m a little concerned.”

  Daniel cocked his head.

  “Go on, my love. What are you concerned about? Apart from my court appearance, that is…”

  “It’s just that we’ve been protected here, Daniel. Just you, me, and baby Dillon. But there’s going to be battles ahead, especially when you go back out to work. Your battle with alcohol isn’t over. You’ll be challenged by it again and again at some stage, and I really believe you need to get some help before then.”

  Daniel straightened himself, and drew his eyebrows together.

  “No Lizzy. I’ve got you, and I’ve got God. And I’m determined not to drink. That’s enough. I don’t need outside help.”

  Lizzy cringed inside. Why did he have to be so adamant? But it wouldn’t do to force the issue... she’d just have to pray.

  She reached out her hand to his, and forced a smile onto her face she didn’t feel. A lump sat heavily in the pit of her stomach.

  “Okay then. I guess I have to let it go. You know I’m here for you, Daniel, and I’ll support you in any way I can.”

  “Yes, my love. Thank you. I’ll be alright, you’ll see.”

  Oh God, I pray that will be the case…

  That night, the night before Daniel’s court appearance, Riley telephoned and asked to come over as he had something to talk to them about. They agreed, and waited for his arrival.

  Daniel let him in, and ushered him to the lounge where Lizzy was resting.

  “Don’t get up, Lizzy,” Riley said as he leaned down and kissed her on the cheek.

  “Thanks Riley. Good to see you.” She smiled at him as she squeezed his hand.

  “Well, I won’t keep you long. I’ve got a proposal to run past you.” He cleared his throat and glanced at both Daniel and Lizzy before continuing. “I’ve heard about a job that might suit you, Danny. A Bible College in the Lakes District is looking for a maintenance person. It’s a live-in job, and they’re prepared to accommodate a family. The pay isn’t great, but you wouldn’t have to pay for housing, so it could be a good option. Plus, it’s run more like a community, so you get to mix with the students and teachers, and you can sit in on any classes you want. I can put in a good word for you if you like the sound of it.”

  “Daniel, it sounds perfect!” Lizzy sat up and grabbed his hands.

  Daniel laughed and shook his head. “Lizzy, look at you! You’re just like a little kid wanting an ice-cream!”

  “I’m sorry, I can’t help it.” She calmed herself a little. “Don’t you think it’s perfect?”

  “Maybe. But we hardly know anything about it.” Daniel turned to Riley and tilted his head. “Do you really think it’s a job I could do?”

  “Easy. It’s just mowing lawns, a bit of gardening, keeping things running, all things you’ve done before. Nessa and I both think it would be the ideal job for you.”

  “Well, I guess I’ll trust you on that. So now it’s just a little matter of that court appearance…”

  “Yes. That’s the sticking point. But we’re hoping for a good outcome, Danny. Bill’s a legend, and if anyone can get you a lighter punishment, it’s him. But you’ll have to agree to rehab.”

  Daniel leaned back and crossed his arms over his chest.

  “Why are you so against rehab, Daniel?” Lizzy drew her eyebrows together. “Anytime rehab’s mentioned you put up a wall. I don’t understand.” Memories of their earlier conversation about him getting help came to the fore.

  “Do you really want to know?”

  She nodded eagerly. “Yes, I do.”

  Daniel sighed and took a deep drag on his cigarette. “When I was in last time, I went cold turkey. Not just alcohol, I’d been taking some hard gear as well, and it’s left a bad taste in my mouth. I don’t have fond memories of the place. I don’t want to be locked away for weeks on end away from you.” He tapped the ash into the tray in front of him and crossed his legs. “I know it works for some people, but just not me. I don’t need it, anyway.”

  Lizzy grimaced and struggled to remain positive. It couldn’t all
fall apart just because Daniel wouldn’t agree to rehab, surely?

  “Can’t you agree to regular counselling without being admitted? That would surely help?”

  Her eyes locked with his as an unspoken battle waged between them.

  Riley leaned forward and spoke quietly. “I think you should agree, Daniel. It can’t hurt, and might just help. And it might keep you out of jail.”

  Daniel turned his gaze to Riley. Moments later, he threw his arms up.

  “Alright. You both win. I’ll agree to counselling.”

  Lizzy cast her eyes heavenwards and sent up a prayer of thanks as tears welled up behind her eyelids. She squeezed Daniel’s hand and a broad smile grew on her face.

  Lizzy couldn’t get the news of the possible job for Daniel out of her mind. Although little information had been given, she felt it was from God, and thanked Him for providing for them. Yes, there was a long way to go, but she was confident, and so when it came time to go to court the next morning, she was far less nervous than she might have been, although she’d been battling a persistent headache all night.

  That morning, Daniel deliberated over what to wear, but in the end agreed with Lizzy’s suggestion of black trousers, white button up shirt and black jacket, although he wasn’t happy about it.

  “I look like a waiter,” he said as he looked at himself in the mirror. “Can’t I wear something a bit trendier?”

  “No. You look smart and presentable. Just how you need to look in court. I think you look very nice.” She reached up and planted a kiss on his lips. “Come on, Riley and Nessa will be here any moment.”

  She grabbed his hand and pulled him out the door. Riley and Nessa had just pulled up outside the apartment block as they reached the bottom of the stairs. Lizzy held Daniel’s hand in the back of the car for the short trip into town. He was fidgety, and she knew he was nervous. There was every possibility he wouldn’t be coming home with them.

  Nessa must have been nervous too, as she was chatting away in the front about anything and everything. Lizzy did her best to listen and respond when appropriate, but her head hurt, and she just wished Nessa would stop.

  The court house car park was almost full, but there were a few spots towards the back. Once parked, Riley turned around in his seat and looked at Daniel. Thankfully Nessa had stopped talking.

  “Hey Danny, would you like to pray before we go in?”

  Lizzy squeezed Daniel’s hand again and tried not to tear up when he agreed.

  “Let’s pray, then,” Riley said as he reached out his hand to Daniel. “Heavenly Father, God of mercy and grace, we know You want the best for Daniel and Lizzy. We don’t know what the outcome will be today, but we trust that whatever it may be, You will give Daniel and Lizzy peace and joy. We pray that they will trust You to lead them and be with them in the days ahead. We dare to ask that Daniel might avoid jail time, but we pray that Your will be done. Lord Jesus, I commit Daniel and Lizzy into your hands, and ask that You bless them with your mighty love. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

  The moment passed all too soon, but God was with them, and they knew that whatever happened, they’d be okay. When Riley turned back and opened his door, cold air raced into the car, making Lizzy shiver. She pulled her coat and scarf tighter before she climbed out with Daniel’s help.

  Hidden between the open doors, Lizzy faced Daniel and gently put her hands on his chest after straightening his collar. “Are you okay, Daniel?” She looked into his eyes and her heart filled with love and respect for him as he looked back at her with strength and determination.

  “Yes, I’m more than okay.” He brushed her hair with his hand, and held her gaze. “I’m ready for this, Lizzy my love. I’ll trust God whatever the outcome, even if it’s jail. It won’t be forever.” Lizzy’s heart pounded as he pulled her close and kissed her gently.

  “Come on you two,” Nessa said with a laugh in her voice. “Anyone would think you’d just got married!”

  Lizzy turned her head and gave her a cheeky grin. “Give us a break, Ness. It is like we’ve just got married…”

  “I know, I know…. Sorry to break it up, but we do need to go in.”

  “Okay Ness, settle down. We’re coming.” Daniel released Lizzy and took her hand as they headed towards to the courthouse.

  Despite the fact they’d only just committed the whole proceedings to the Lord, Lizzy’s stomach had an empty feeling, and she gripped Daniel’s hand.

  Bill McIntosh, Daniel’s solicitor, had arranged to meet them at nine thirty in the foyer. Of medium height, he stood erect, giving the appearance of a much taller man. He looked impressive in his dark suit and navy blue tie, and Lizzy prayed he’d be successful in obtaining a lighter sentence for Daniel.

  Bill smiled broadly and held out his hand.

  “Good morning Daniel, Lizzy.” His voice was deep and commanding, and filled Lizzy with confidence. He nodded to Riley and Nessa before turning his attention back to Daniel.

  “You’re towards the top of the list, so I suggest we wait here.” He pointed towards the waiting area where others were already seated.

  Daniel and Lizzy took a seat, with Daniel sitting beside Bill. Lizzy was having trouble breathing and didn’t feel too well, but hid it from Daniel. She wanted to be so strong for him. As Bill talked to Daniel, she tried to focus on what was being said, but she was feeling light headed and her headache hadn’t gone away. Oh God, please help me get through this, for Daniel’s sake.

  She sipped the coffee Nessa handed to her a few minutes later and felt a little better.

  Nessa sat beside her.

  “Are you okay, Lizzy?”

  “Not really, but don’t say anything, Ness. I just want to get through this.”

  “I don’t like the look of you. You’re all puffed up.”

  “I’ll be okay.” Lizzy smiled weakly, and looked up expectantly when Bill said Daniel had been called.

  Nessa helped her up and held her arm as they followed behind Bill and Daniel, who were deep in conversation.

  Taking her seat in the court room, Lizzy wished she was anywhere but here. Would she be able to focus on what was happening? She really didn’t feel too well at all. In fact, she might be sick at any moment.

  The magistrate called Daniel to the front. Daniel stood and stated his name, and pleaded guilty to the charge.

  She had to get out. Sweat oozed from her forehead, and she felt clammy all over. She attempted to stand, but swayed. Nessa steadied her.

  “I need to go to the bathroom,” Lizzy whispered to Nessa while holding her hand over her mouth. As Nessa helped her out, Lizzy’s gaze settled on the back of Daniel’s head, and her heart ached for him. Why was this happening right now? God, why?

  “I think we need to get you to hospital, Lizzy,” Nessa said once Lizzy had been to the Ladies. “You’re very pale, and your face is swollen. I’m really concerned.”

  “No Ness. I need to be here for Daniel.”

  “No Liz. Listen to me. You need to look after yourself right now. We’re going to the hospital.”

  Lizzy gave in when she swayed and almost fell. She waited in the foyer while Nessa got the car, and then sat slumped in the front seat while Nessa sped to the hospital.

  One look at her, and she was admitted straight away. It was all a blur, as she was prodded and poked by a variety of doctors and nurses. Nessa remained by her side the whole time, holding her hand, assuring her everything would be alright.

  “Mrs O’Connor, can you hear me?”

  Lizzy tried to focus on the person speaking. She nodded to the vague outline of a male doctor standing over her.

  “We need to deliver your baby, Mrs O’Connor.”

  The words jolted her. No. This couldn’t be happening. It was too early. She was semi-aware of Nessa beside her, but nothing else made much sense.

  She jumped slightly at a prick in her arm, and then she was being pushed through a tunnel. A tunnel with no end. Bright lights flashed overh
ead, and jumbled sounds of voices and wheels and metal touching metal whirled in her head. Then it all went blank.

  Chapter Twenty-One

  Daniel held his hands together tightly in front of him to keep them from shaking. As much as he wanted to trust God, he’d still be devastated if he was sent to jail. How could it be otherwise when it’d mean being separated from Lizzy when she was so close to having their baby?

  He turned his head slightly at a noise that came from behind. Lizzy! He gripped the back of the chair but it was too late. His case had begun.

  When Lizzy came to, she struggled to remember where she was. A nurse stood above her with a baby in her arms. Lizzy glanced at her stomach, and realized with a start it was her baby. She tried to pull herself up, but winced as searing pain tore through her lower abdomen.

  “Don’t get up, Mrs O’Connor. Stay right there. May I introduce you to your new little son?”

  She must be dreaming. It wasn’t real. But no, it was real. She looked down at the tiny bundle that had just been placed beside her. This was unbelievable. She had a son. But how had it happened? And where was Daniel?

  She glanced around, but he wasn’t there. Her heart fell when the fog in her brain cleared and she remembered he was in court. Slowly it all came back. The trip to the hospital, the lights, the noise, and being told her baby had to be delivered.

  Lizzy’s heart swelled with love for her tiny son. He was perfect, and the mop of black hair was so Daniel. She gently touched his little pink face and kissed the top of his head as she held him in her arms.

  She glanced up as Nessa walked in, smiling from ear to ear.

  “Lizzy! Congratulations!” Lizzy smiled tearfully when Nessa leaned down and kissed her on the cheek before gazing at the tiny bundle lying beside her. “He’s beautiful, Liz.” Nessa’s eyes sparkled and held tears of her own.

 

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