After Shock- Ellie's Chance

by Vikki McCombie

  Her son grimaced. “I wish. I’ve got at least two hours’ worth, and then I plan to read a while before going to sleep. Sorry, but I’ll need to pass.” He leaned in and kissed her cheek. “See you in the morning.”

  Ellie watched as her son strode from the kitchen. She’d missed their one day they usually spent together, but it couldn’t be helped. There was no way she could have left her staff to handle one of the busier days of the week.

  She eyed the pastry bag. Lynda’s strudel called her name. Unable to resist, she peeked inside, and the scent of cinnamon and icing assailed her senses. Pulling the piece from the bag, she sank her teeth into the gooey confection and groaned.

  Lynda truly was an incredible cook. After she finished her treat, she stood and wiped the crumbs off the table. She turned off the overhead light, leaving the kitchen illuminated by the under-counter lighting she’d had installed that summer. Then she walked into the living area. Dropping on the sofa, she grabbed the remote and turned the TV on.

  After trying to watch a movie on one of her favorite channels for fifteen minutes, she shut off the TV. She wasn’t in the mood tonight. It wasn’t much fun to watch by herself, especially since it was an activity she normally shared with Zach.

  What would she do when he no longer wanted to spend time with her? Once he started college next year, he’d be too busy with the new friends he’d make. He’d also be focused on making top grades. Of that she could count on. He’d want to make the dean’s list. He’d inherited her drive to be the best.

  Deciding to take a relaxing bath in her soaker tub, she checked the alarm, then climbed the stairs to her bedroom. Entering her en suite bathroom, she turned on the water, and while it filled, she removed her makeup. Running her hand under the faucet, she adjusted the temperature and added a lavender-scented bath bomb.

  After removing her clothes, she slid into the steamy bath and sighed. The water swirled around her. She grabbed her novel and settled back to read. As her body relaxed, the book wasn’t grabbing her attention, and she laid it on the tile floor.

  She rested her head against the rim of the tub and closed her eyes. Her phone started vibrating on the vanity sink. Now who could be texting her? She hoped it wasn’t work again.

  The water had begun to cool, so she stood and grabbed her towel, wrapped it around her body, and stepped onto the bath mat. Grabbing her phone, she saw it was a text from Jason. A thrill went through her. He’d mentioned texting tonight.

  Jason: How’d work go?

  Ellie: Fast and furious. Lots of check-ins.

  Jason: Up 2 talking?

  Her pulse kicked up a notch.

  This was the first time he’d wanted to talk.

  She quickly typed her response.

  Ellie: Sure. Give me 5 minutes.

  Jason: OK.

  She toweled off and pulled on her favorite nightshirt. After draining the tub, she turned off the bathroom light and stepped into her bedroom. Should she crawl in bed or sit in her rocker? Her feet still ached from being on them for hours this afternoon without a break. The bed looked more inviting.

  She slipped between the soft microfiber sheets, snuggling against her down-filled pillow. Heaven. Then some unknown force compelled her. She opened her drawer and removed her book then laid it beside her.

  Her phone buzzed, and she checked the screen, seeing Jason’s name, she grinned. “Hey.”

  “Hi, Ellie. Bet you’re tired, huh?” His voice with a hint of his southern drawl sent chills coursing through her.

  He would have made a great sports announcer with that voice. “A little. I just took a relaxing bath, so that helped. I’m not used to standing on my feet for hours anymore. It makes me remember how hard it is to do it eight hours a day. My feet are still aching, and I only did it half that time.”

  He chuckled. “If I was there, I’d massage them for you.”

  Goose bumps raced up her arms. Of course, he didn’t mean it to sound so sensual, he was too much of a gentleman, but it still set the bees buzzing in her tummy. “And, I’d take you up on that offer too.”

  Were they flirting with each other?

  She hadn’t done anything remotely like that in years.

  She wanted to giggle but held it in.

  “Oh, you would?” His breath hitched, and the pitch deepened. “Maybe I should drive over now.” He quickly added, “Just kidding. If you’ve already had your bath, I guess you’re turning in early tonight.”

  She glanced at the book. “Well, actually, I have my copy of the New Testament beside me. I thought I’d read another one of the Gospels before I go to sleep. Do you have a favorite?” The conversation had moved in a safer direction, which was for the best.

  “I like John the most. Have you read that one yet?” he asked.

  On firmer footing, she told him, “Not yet. I just finished Mark, so I’m reading Luke this evening.”

  “For me, Luke’s account of Jesus’s birth is the most moving. The book of Matthew is good, but I like Luke’s re-telling the best.”

  “Oh, then I look forward to reading it.” She hesitated, craving an answer to a burning question that had plagued her. Inhaling, she asked, “You truly believe he’s the son of God?”

  “I do.” His tone was firm with conviction. “I still remember when he became real to me.”

  That statement set her senses on alert. “What do you mean?”

  “I’m talking of the moment when I first accepted him in my heart. I was in the fifth grade and had gone to a woman’s house after school with several friends. The person leading the group read a passage from John, and a light came on inside me. In that moment, I knew Jesus in a way I’d never known him before.”

  Yearning to hear more, she asked, “But, how did you know?”

  “A warmth flowed through me, and it was like he’d wrapped his arms around me. I’ve believed he’s with me ever since, especially when I’m troubled.” He drew in a breath. “When I lost Marsha. Well…I couldn’t have made it through the pain without Him.”

  She sighed. “You make it sound so appealing.”

  Should I tell him about my experience the other night?

  Perhaps if I don’t reveal what I actually heard.

  She eased into it. “I’ve been reading the New Testament I purchased recently. I wanted to understand what fascinated Zach so much,” she explained. “I looked up the Gospel reading from the service that first morning.”

  “Excellent,” he replied. “It shows you’re wanting to understand.”

  Her heart fluttering, she went all in. “This may sound crazy, but I thought I heard a voice last Sunday night. It seemed so real. After that, I’ve wanted to know more. I turned to the beginning of the book and started reading. I eventually fell asleep, feeling like something bright and new was within my reach if I just looked for it.”

  “I believe that’s God’s spirit reaching out to you.” His voice grew excited. “When I open my heart, I too, hear His voice. It’s brought me great comfort, especially during troubled times.”

  “Thanks for listening to me tonight. I must admit, you’ve made me want to read more, to gain a better understanding.” She went on. “You and your friends have such joy and you exude tranquility. I want that too.”

  “You can. All you need to do is believe.” His tone softened. “God is there for you. He wants you to turn to Him.”

  “Part of me wants to, but I struggle with what I’ve believed all my life.” Confusion filled her. “My father hated anything to do with religion. We were taught to only depend on ourselves. It’s how I’ve always lived my life.”

  He didn’t say anything for a few moments, but she heard his even breathing, so she knew he was still there. “Ellie. Would you like to pray together?”

  “I’ve started praying, but I don’t know if I’m doing it right.” Her voiced wavered.

  “Oh, sweetheart.” Compassion filled his voice. “There’s no right or wrong way to pray, as long as you let your hea
rt guide you.”

  Could it truly be so simple? “I’d like that…very much.”

  He cleared his throat. “Dear heavenly Father, help Ellie gain an understanding of Your will for her. Let her feel Your loving arms surrounding her as she moves forward on this new journey for truth. Be with her as she seeks answers. Help me guide her in Your ways and give her strength to overcome her fears. We ask all this in Your Son’s precious name. Amen.” He breathed in, and she could envision the peace he must be experiencing. “Now why don’t you try.”

  She gripped her phone, while her other hand rested on her lap trembling. Although unsure, she was determined to try. “Jason says there’s no wrong way, so here goes. I didn’t think I needed anything. I’m still not sure I believe, but I’m willing to seek the truth. Thank You for bringing Jason into my life. His love and conviction for You inspires me. Although I have doubts, the thought of having You with me is comforting. Open my heart. I guess that’s it, God. Thanks for listening. Amen.” She released a shaky breath.

  “That’s great, Ellie, just great. I hope you’ll take time each day to talk to God. Remember that’s all it is, a conversation. You’ll gain a friend like no other.” His soothing tone calmed her. “It’s getting late,” he added, “and I have to be up early tomorrow. I’m glad we talked tonight. Just know I’m here if you need me.”

  A sense of peace pervaded her. “Thanks, Jason. I really appreciate your help with this. I’m going to read Luke as soon as we end our call. Maybe we can talk again tomorrow night?”

  “I’d like that,” he replied. “I hope you gain an appreciation of Christ’s birth. We’ll talk tomorrow evening for sure. Goodnight, sweetheart.”

  “Goodnight to you as well.” She touched the end button on her phone and set it on her nightstand. He’d called her that endearment twice. While she usually found that one condescending, when he used it, she didn’t feel that way at all. It actually warmed her and filled her with a sense of security. Having him as a friend had changed her entire attitude on life.

  Jason was such a kind man, and his words had given her much to consider. A glimmer of joy took hold in her heart. With his encouragement and support, she would continue to read with an open mind, and more importantly, an open heart.

  Maybe, just maybe, she’d find the answers that would lead her to the truth. Wonder and amazement filled her. Only a couple of weeks ago, she had no desire to ever learn more about his faith, and now there was a thirst to learn as much and as fast as she could. She picked up her book, found Luke, and began to read.

  When she awoke the following morning, she stretched. Her hand brushed her book. It had kept her awake long into the night. While it answered some of her questions, she now had others. She would be able to ask Jason when he called later.

  Although she was off today, and could have a lazy morning, she wanted to fix Zach breakfast before he left for school. She climbed out of bed and threw on her old, well-worn terrycloth robe, belting it snugly around her waist and hurried downstairs.

  By the time she had a gouda cheese and spinach omelet ready, Zach wandered in and sniffed. “Hmm. Bacon.” His eyes took in the plate she’d sat on the table. “Oh, and you’ve made my favorite. Thanks, Mom.” He bussed her cheek before he took his seat.

  The all-grain toast popped up, and she slathered it with butter then laid it on the side of his plate and took a seat across from him. “Before we eat, I’d like to take a minute to talk, okay?”

  He laid his fork on his plate and sent a quizzical look her way. “Sure. What is it?”

  It felt as if she were stepping on a cliff, ready to jump into the unknown. She swallowed the ball of anxiety lodged in her throat. “I’d like to pray before we eat.”

  His brows shot up. “You.” His eyes opened even wider, clearly astonished at her request. “You want to pray? Since when?”

  She fiddled with her napkin. “I too, have been reading from the New Testament. I wanted to know why you seemed so enthralled by it and bought a copy. It has me rethinking a lot of things.”

  Hope filled his eyes with an inner light. “Mom. You don’t know how much I’ve wanted this. I’ve been praying you’d hear something at church.” He blinked several times, and her eyes teared up. “I’d like that a lot.” He reached for her hand. “Go ahead.”

  She bowed her head as she wiped a tear trailing down her cheek. “Thank you, God…” she hesitated a second or two, then went on, “for this food. Thank you for my wonderful son. Help us find the truth we’re both seeking in Your word. Amen.”

  He squeezed her hand. “I want to add, thanks for helping my mom and me on this new journey for knowledge. As I’ve read, all we need to do is ask, and You’ll be there for us. Thanks for listening, God. Amen.” He released her hand, then picking up his fork, he took a bite and grinned, returning his attention to his breakfast. “This is great,” he mumbled between bites.

  “Glad you’re enjoying it.” Zach’s calm acceptance of adding prayer to their meal humbled her. She watched as he consumed his breakfast. How lucky she was to have such an amazing son. No, it’s not luck. God had worked in her life, even when she hadn’t wanted him there. Thank goodness, he’d intervened anyway.

  She ate her omelet and toast, feeling blessed beyond anything she’d imagined. Her life, as she’d known it, was forever changed. Hope and joy filled her soul.

  After they finished their food, Ellie cleaned up while Zach went upstairs to get his backpack. When he returned, he hugged her. “Thanks again for a great breakfast. And, Mom…I’m glad we prayed together. Hope we can do this every day.”

  “Me too.” Returning to the moment at hand, she briskly spoke, “Now, hurry. You don’t want to miss the bus.” He grinned, then rushed from the kitchen.

  CHAPTER TWELVE

  Jason relaxed in his office chair and reflected on the last month which had gone by faster than usual since he’d become friends with Ellie. He’d texted or called her each day, and they’d enjoyed many enlightening conversations. They’d also started dating. Since Saturdays were good for them, they’d gone to dinner each week and had gotten to know each other, growing much closer.

  Ellie and her son continued to attend church and Wednesday night suppers, and they went to lunch with him and the rest of the gang. She was now as much of a friend to the others as he had become. In fact, Ellie had even met Lynda for lunch a couple of times on Mondays, since they were both off that day.

  His concerns over developing a relationship with Ellie had disappeared completely. Now that she’d begun to believe in God, that was no longer an issue. The Lord had brought them together for more than one reason.

  Jason’s feelings had grown far beyond friendship. He was falling for her—it a big way. He hadn’t told her of his growing feelings, but he planned to, on Saturday when they went out. Although Ellie had never discussed her feelings toward him, her actions assured him she had grown to care for him as well.

  The alarm on his watch dinged, pulling him from his musings. Kelly had an appointment to have her cast removed, and he would be late if he didn’t get moving. Reminding Yeoman Peters he was leaving for the day, he rushed to his truck.

  When he arrived at his daughter’s school and got Kelly checked out, she chattered all the way to the doctor’s office about all the stuff she’d be able to do now that her ankle had healed. “Halloween’s next week, and I want to go trick or treating. Hey, Daddy, we’re still going to church for the party, right?”

  He prayed nothing would keep the doctor from removing it, or he’d have one very upset little girl. “That’s the plan, sweet pea. You told me Frozen was your favorite movie, so I did buy you that Elsa costume for you to wear.”

  She giggled. “Thanks, Daddy. Samantha is going as Anna, so we’ll be pretend sisters.”

  When they arrived at her appointment, they only had to wait ten minutes before the nurse called them back. It must make a difference when the appointment was after lunch. Normally, they had to wait much lo
nger.

  They went into the x-ray room first, then after that, the nurse showed them to the exam room. The doctor entered carrying the x-rays. After sliding them on the viewing screen, he grinned. “Well, young lady. I’m happy to tell you your cast can come off.”

  The doctor made short work of removing it. Kelly pushed off the table, ready to jump down. Jason caught her before she had a chance. “Daddy,” she huffed. “I can do it myself. My leg’s all better.”

  “The cast may be off, but now the hard part begins.” Jason sat her on the chair. “Let me help you get your sock and shoe on. Can’t have you walking around barefooted. It’s finally turned cold, you know.”

  She stuck her lip out in an adorable pout. “Why did you say there’s a hard part?”

  The doctor intervened. “Your ankle’s not as strong as before, yet. You’ll need to take it slow until you build up your muscles again.” He handed her a sheet of exercises she’d need to do to gain her strength back. “Now, as long as you do everything on these sheets each day you will be back to running and jumping in no time.”

  Kelly brightened. “Great. I promise to do them a zillion times a day.”

  He chuckled. “That won’t be necessary. Just do the number it says on the sheet. I promise that will be enough.”

  Kelly stood then stepped forward and grimaced when the ankle didn’t want to bear her weight. “Daddy. I guess I do still need your help, but only until I do my exercises.”

  The nurse handed her the crutches they’d brought with them. “Here you go, young lady.” Having used them when she first broke her ankle, she had no problems using them, and soon, they were in his truck headed for home.

  When they arrived at the house, Brian met them at the door. His face resembled a storm cloud, but he managed a smile for his sister. “Hey, Kelly. I see the doctor removed your cast. That’s great. Now you won’t have any trouble trick or treating, Squirt.”

  “Nope, can’t wait. But I got to do a bunch of exercises cuz my ankle’s too weak.” Her tiny mouth turned down at the corners.