Listen to Your Heart
Listen to Your Heart
Irene Brand
Laurel Cooper was too busy planning her only daughter's wedding to make time for romance.But the fortysomething widow couldn't ignore the rugged photojournalist who'd appeared on her doorstep to photograph her antebellum home-turned-boarding house. Especially not when they spent so much time together as she gave him tours of other local historic homes.Micah Davidson made himself indispensable, even covering the wedding as a favor for his lovely new landlady. Yet just as Micah was about to propose, a shocking photograph surfaced, turning Laurel's world upside down. Could their love outlast the long-buried secrets from Laurel's past?
My cell phone number is on the card, so please feel free to call. Did your cousin have reason to think you might be in danger?
Laurel forced a laugh. Of course not. Were perfectly safe.
But considering the telephone call and the letter in her purse, Laurel hoped her optimistic words had disguised her inner turmoil from her daughter Debbie and from Michah.
Cousin Kevin is a worrywart, Debbie said. We have nothing to fear from our neighbors, and travelers wouldnt know theres a house out here.
But you are isolated, Michah insisted, so please contact me if you need anything. Ill be here almost every night.
Michahs eyes revealed a warm tenderness and concern that made Laurels heart beat faster. Knowing his strength and intelligence were at her beck and call gave her the assurance that she desperately needed.
IRENE BRAND
Writing has been a lifelong interest of this author, who says that she started her first novel when she was eleven years old and hasnt finished it yet. However, since 1984 shes published thirty-two contemporary and historical novels and three nonfiction titles. She started writing professionally in 1977 after she completed her masters degree in history at Marshall University. Irene taught in secondary public schools for twenty-three years, but retired in 1989 to devote herself to writing.
Consistent involvement in the activities of her local church has been a source of inspiration for Irenes work. Traveling with her husband, Rod, to all fifty states, and to thirty-two foreign countries has also inspired her writing. Irene is grateful to the many readers who have written to say that her inspiring stories and compelling portrayals of characters with strong faith have made a positive impression on their lives. You can write to her at P.O. Box 2770, Southside, WV 25187 or visit her Web site at www.irenebrand.com.
Listen to Your Heart
Irene Brand
But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.
II Thessalonians 3:3
To Carlene Thompson, a fellow writer and former student, whose fiction books have earned her a noteworthy reputation in the world of mystery and suspense.
And to Keith Biggs, also a former student, who contributes to my writing career by keeping my computers in working condition.
Contents
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Letter to Reader
Chapter One
Persistent rain drummed a staccato rhythm on the tin roof of the back porch as Laurel Cooper leaned a ladder against the outside wall of her Tennessee antebellum home.
There would have to be another downpour before that lazy contractor got here, Laurel fumed. She tied her raincoats hood over her red hair and climbed the ladder. Laurel shook her fist at an offending eaves spout, which, rather than draining as it should, was spewing water into her favorite bed of hostas.
Laurel had learned to do a lot of things since shed been the owner of Oaklawn, but this was the first time shed tackled a leak in the middle of a thunderstorm. The raincoat provided some protection from the torrent as she took a hammer out of one of her pockets, stuck some nails in her mouth and leaned toward a metal strap that had broken and caused the gutter to separate. She scowled at several miniature ponds in her landscaping. With all of these delays, how could she possibly beautify Oaklawn in time for Debbies August wedding just three months from now?
Believing she was alone, Laurel almost fell off the ladder when a loud knock sounded at the nearby door. Recovering her balance, she peered through the screened back porch. Protected by a large umbrella, a man stood at the door.
Its high time you got here, Laurel shouted above a roll of thunder. Ive been waiting two days for you to come and do what should have been done weeks ago.
I beg your pardon, the man said.
And so you should, Laurel answered crossly. My hostas are about ruined. Come and fix this leak.
He left the doorstep and walked languidly toward her. She didnt recognize him, but the contractor whod renovated her home employed a lot of people. Shed seen many different workers during the renovation. As this man approached, Laurel backed down the ladder. She extended the hammer and nails to him, irritated that a workman would appear on her doorstep empty-handed.
A smile seemed to lurk at the corners of his mouth, but his vivid blue eyes were unfathomable. He laid aside the umbrella, took the hammer and nails and obediently climbed the ladder. It isnt funny! Laurel said angrily. I spent more money than I can afford on this project, and this is the fourth time Ive had to have one of your workers redo something.
The workman winced when a spurt of water splashed his face and drenched the front of his shirt.
Laurel bit her lips to stifle further comments, since her conscience hurt a little because the man was getting soaked. Maybe she should have delayed the repair until the rain was over, but she couldnt afford to replace the plants. Besides, why would he come to work on a day like this dressed only in a cotton shirt and dress trousers? And without any tools? She knew reliable workers were hard to find, but this was ridiculous!
With a few deft movements, the man squeezed the guttering together, pounded three nails in the brace that held the guttering to the building, and the leak was fixed. Still atop the ladder, he turned and said, Is the work satisfactory now, maam?
His long, thick black hair, dusted with gray, was plastered to his head. Compelling blue eyes gleamed from his square, tanned face. He wasnt a particularly handsome man, but his clinging wet clothes revealed a tall, rugged, perfectly proportioned body. Why did she have the feeling he was laughing at her?
Laurel realized shed been staring at the man when he prodded, If the work suits you, Id like to find a drier place. Im reminded of my dads expression about people who didnt know enough to come in out of the rain.
Annoyed because of his suspected levity, Laurel answered tartly, As long as the water is going down the gutter, its okay. Im sorry you got wet, but you should know better than to come to work on a day like this without a raincoat. Come inside, theres something else I want you to do.
Micah Davidson stepped down and handed the hammer to Laurel. He shouldered the ladder and set it on the porch, then picked up his umbrella and joined her. His humor at the situation was tempered by the fact that he was drenched.
Maam, he said, let me introduce myself
This way, Laurel said, and motioned imperiously. He followed her into the broad entryway of the palatial mansion. She untied the hood, shrugged out of her raincoat and hung it on the rack by the door.
Micahs eyes widened appreciably. The womans red hair, with tints of reddish gold, clung to her head in short curls. She had alabaster skin and a petite body, giving her an appearance of fragile beauty. Judging by the way shed been bossing him around, she certainly wasnt frail. Her green eyes flashed like neon lights when she was angry, and he thought humorously that, with her red hair and green eyes, her head would make a good Christmas tree ornament. He still had no idea who she was.
Laurel placed her right foot on the bottom step of the curved, hanging stairway in the central hall. The board wiggled back and forth beneath her sturdy white shoes.
That board hasnt been nailed down, and its an accident waiting to happen. My daughter tripped on it last week.
Micahs lips twitched as he said, Ill have to borrow your hammer again. And maybe a nail or two.
Just a minute! Laurel said, suspicion dawning in her mind. Whyd you come to work without any tools? Arent you from Bowmans Contractors?
No, maam.
Because of a sudden flash of embarrassment, Laurels temper flared again, and she said, Why didnt you say so?
I tried to, maam.
Oh, stop calling me maam. My name is Laurel Cooper. Who are you anyway?
Micah Davidson.
Whats your business here?
He reached into his damp pants pocket, pulled out a leather case and handed her a business card.
Micah DavidsonPhotojournalist, she read in a subdued voice. Laurel turned away from him and covered her face with both hands. He sensed she was close to tears.
My miserable temper is always getting me into trouble, she confessed in a muffled voice. Im so humiliated. Please go away, Mr. Davidson, and save me further embarrassment. She turned toward him with downcast eyes peeking out over her hands. Although I suppose I should be polite enough to ask what brought you to Oaklawn.
I noticed a sign along the highway indicating you have apartments for rent. I have an assignment in this area and I need a place to live for a few weeks.
Still refusing to meet his eyes, she stared at the floor. Would you like to come back later when you have dry clothing? Im sure you must be miserable.
My luggage is in the car. If I can rent one of your apartments, Ill have a place to change my clothes. Do you have anything available?
I have a vacant upstairs apartment. The central part of the house was built in 1830, but a two-story ell was added around 1900. I had that wing converted into four apartments when I inherited this house two years ago. Theyre modern and quite comfortable. Come with me, and Ill let you see the rooms. Most of my renters are students at nearby Walden College and are on summer break now. I hold their rooms for them through the summer at a reduced rate.
Laurel motioned him to follow her through the rear door into a large flower garden, bordered by a white wooden fence. The thunderstorm had passed, leaving a moist, fragrant scent to the newly mowed grass. Drops of moisture decorated dozens of rosebushes, enhancing the sweet aroma of the flowering buds. An industrious robin pulled a fat worm from the damp ground and hopped across the wet grass to feed her fledgling off-spring. Micah surveyed his surroundings with pleasure. For years hed rambled around the world with no place to call home. Why did he now experience the comfortable peace of belonging?
Im on assignment to photograph and write an article on antebellum homes in Tennessee and Kentucky, Micah explained, and Oaklawn is one of the houses on my list. I hope youll let me feature your home in my article.
Laurel slanted a glance his way. His deep voice contained a pleasant hint of huskiness. That would be wonderful! This house has been in my husbands family for generations. Im often overwhelmed by its vastness, but its my daughters heritage, and Im trying to maintain it for her.
Micah discreetly glanced at Laurels hands. Seeing no wedding band, he decided she must be a widow, or she wouldnt have been the one to inherit the home.
Laurel opened the door into a two-room apartment with a small kitchenette. Its warm in here now, but theres a window air conditioner, she explained. A senior at the college moved out of the apartment when she graduated last week. Its been thoroughly cleaned since then, so its ready for occupancy if it suits you.
Micah had noted the rent rate posted on the door, and he said, Exactly what I need. Ive already finished my research on Kentuckys houses and I want to make my headquarters at one location in Tennessee while I travel to the various homes Im researching. Ill move in now, if thats all right.
Yes, thats fine with me. She turned on the air conditioner and showed him where extra towels and linens could be found. With her hand on the doorknob, Laurel looked directly into his eyes, the first time shed had the courage to do so since shed learned what a terrible mistake shed made.
I apologize for my behavior. Ive always had a quick temper, and just when I think I have it under control, I act like a shrew. Oaklawn is more than I can handle physically and financially, but my daughter, Debbie, wants to be married here in August. I thought the place should be renovated for that, but the expense has been more than Id expected. When I worry about my finances, I get irritable. Im sorry.
Realizing that she was boring this man with her personal problems, she turned away. Hed come to rent an apartment, and shed not only bawled him out for something that wasnt his fault, but now she was complaining about her financial affairs. She closed the door and left without another word.
Micah had seen the quick rush of tears that glazed Laurels emerald eyes, and his heart reacted strangely. At first hed been amused at her caustic comments, but now he felt sorry for her. While hed been researching other homes, he had met numerous widows who lived in houses that were burdensome, but homes they felt obliged to retain for their children.
While Micah carried his luggage into the apartment, he looked more closely at the large redbrick house, understanding Laurels frustration. Judging from other homes of this period, he figured the main structure contained eight rooms or more. If he was responsible for a house like Oaklawn, hed be short-tempered, too.
Debbie had been away for ten days visiting her fiancs family in Colorado, but Laurel expected her home for dinner. Conscious of the fact that shed only have her daughter for a few more months, Laurel prepared some of Debbies favorite foods for a homecoming dinner.
Laurel had just shaped a pan of rolls and set them aside to rise, when she heard Debbies voice on the back porch. Hey, Mom. Im home. Where are you?
In the kitchen.
It had been this way since Debbie had started kindergartenshe always called for her mother as soon as she entered the house. Debbie swept into the kitchen and hugged Laurel. She picked up a carrot from the tray of vegetables Laurel was preparing.
Tears formed in Laurels eyes, and she looked away to keep Debbie from seeing. She liked Debbies boyfriend, Dereck, and she wanted them to get married, but it would have been so much easier if hed gotten a job closer to Oaklawn.
Missed you, Mom, Debbie said, giving her mother a hug.
Me, too. How was your trip? Laurel asked around the knot in her throat.
Great! Derecks grandparents live on a ranch, and we spent one day with them. Id met his parents before, but it was neat to get better acquainted with them. Their home is a lot smaller than ours, and not nearly as old. Dereck and I looked around for apartments and found one we liked. Its occupied now, but will be free by September. We paid a months rent for deposit. I took some pictures to show you where Ill be living.
Debbie perched on a high stool and nibbled on the carrot. While she elaborated on the good points of the town that would be her home, Laurel smothered a sigh, already missing her daughter. Debbies narrow, candid brown eyes mirrored her excitement, and Laurel wondered how shed ever given birth to a child who was so different from herself.
Debbie had none of Laurels physical characteristics, and while she didnt look like her father, she bore a marked resemblance to her paternal grandmother, whose youthful portrait hung over the mantel in the parlor. Debbie had a heart-shaped face, with a little nose, uptilted at the end. She wore her light brown hair in a layered bob with a sideswept bang. At five feet nine inches tall, she was a half foot taller than her petite mother. Debbie was even-tempered, a trait she hadnt inherited from either of her parents, for Jasons temper had matched Laurels own. Perhaps that was one reason they couldnt get along.
Anything new happening? Debbie asked, halting Laurels musings.
I rented our vacant apartment this afternoon, so that will help pay the bills. I didnt expect to rent it until the fall classes started at the college.
When she recalled her meeting with Micah, Laurel felt her face flushing, and she was aware that Debbie watched her intently. Her embarrassment was still too keen to talk about her blunder, and Laurel was relieved when Debbie assumed the wrong reason for her mothers heated cheeks.
Mom, were spending too much money on the wedding. I can cut back on several things.
No. Youve always dreamed of a big wedding, and you should have what you want. I want the house to look nice for the wedding. Derecks parents are paying for the rehearsal dinner, and our church family is helping out with food for the reception. Weve already paid for your dress, so there shouldnt be a lot more expense. Well manage.
Whats the new renter like?
He has an interesting profession. Hes a photojournalist, and hes doing a magazine article on antebellum homes in the area. He wants to feature Oaklawn.
Awesome! Maybe its a good thing you fixed up the old place. Whats his name?
Micah Davidson.
Oh, Ive heard of him! Hes world-renowned. His work has been featured on the Discovery Channel and in the National Geographic.
A world-renowned journalist and shed treated him like an errant child! Remembering her faux pas, Laurel wondered what Micah must think of her.
Will I have time to take my bags upstairs and unpack before supper? Debbie asked.
It will be almost an hour before the rolls are ready, so take your time.
While she did a load of laundry and finished supper preparations, Laurel was aware of Micahs movements as he unloaded his car. He left for a short time and came back with two bags from the grocery store. She supposed it would have been a neighborly gesture to invite him to eat with them, although Laurel didnt normally socialize with her renters. But she hadnt had a tenant so near her own age before.
After dinner Debbie went to a party, and since a wispy rainbow indicated a fair evening, Laurel sat on the gallery. The house faced west, and the favorite part of Laurels day was to sit in a large rocking chair, listening to the birds settling for the night and inhaling the fragrance of the flower gardens, while watching the sun set beyond the distant hills. The scent of roses was especially strong tonight.
Most times when she enjoyed the beauty of her surroundings, Laurels thoughts were pleasant, but not this evening. It was always this way when she lost her temper. She couldnt remember how many times shed sat here and asked Gods forgiveness for her anger. Every time she thought shed conquered this weakness, shed stumble again. Shed lost her temper so many times, it was amazing that she had any left.
God, she silently prayed, I know Your word teaches to be slow to become angry, but I did it again today. I dont know why You dont lose patience with me, because Im disobedient so often. But, God, I dont know what the future holds, and Im afraid. Debbie will be leaving in a few months to live in another state, and Ill be rattling around this old house alone. I have so much to be thankful for, so please forgive me for feeling sorry for myself. Since Jasons parents left the property to me to maintain for Debbie, I feel obligated to stay here. I do love this old place. But sometimes it seems like an albatross around my neck.
As Debbies wedding date loomed closer, Laurel often experienced her rising fear of being alone. Her daughter had been her whole life for twenty-two years. She didnt want Debbie to suspect her feelings because it would make her sad. But she was determined that Debbie wouldnt realize what a void she was leaving. She would have to develop a new life. She needed to find a job to pay for the renovations, although she knew it would be difficult to venture out on her own after living a sheltered life.
After her husband, Jason, had disappeared in a boating accident, Laurel had dated a few times, but his parents were so opposed to it that shed given up male companionship rather than live with conflict. Since Jasons body had never been recovered, his parents wouldnt admit that he was really dead, but Laurel had never doubted his death. Jason had been an irresponsible husband, but Laurel didnt believe that he would have deliberately abandoned his family for twenty years. She had never considered remarrying when Debbie was growing up, but now that her daughter was leaving home, perhaps it was time for her to find a companion, someone to date and possibly marry down the line.
Gently, Laurel rocked back and forth, considering her options for a new lifestyle. Micah Davidson walked around the corner of the house with a check in his hand. He came briskly up the steps.
Good evening, Mrs. Cooper. Im pleased with the apartment. Heres a months rent.
Since the man didnt seem to resent her crabby behavior, his presence didnt embarrass Laurel now. She wondered momentarily how old he was. He must be in his late forties, for deep, calipered lines had formed around his generous mouth and streaks of gray frosted his dark hair.
Wont you sit down? she invited. Theres going to be a brilliant sunset soon.
Micah took the rocking chair she indicated. This is a peaceful place. Since you live a mile from the highway, you arent bothered with the sounds of traffic.
Sometimes its too peaceful, but Ive lived here over half of my life, and Ive gotten used to it. I came to Oaklawn as an eighteen-year-old bride, and I havent been out of Tennessee since my honeymoon.
These werent pleasant memories, so she said, Since youre a photojournalist, you must travel a lot and have an interesting life. Tell me about some of your experiences.
Ive spent the past year in the Amazon rain forest with a group of scientists. He grinned in her direction. Thats the reason todays deluge in the backyard didnt bother me. My clothes have been wet most of the time in recent months.
Mr. Davidson, please, Laurel said, and she feared her face had turned as red as her hair. Id like to forget that.
Sorry, he said contritely, though his face still gleamed with unspoken laughter. Ive written several articles about my experiences in the jungle, and the first one will be published in a few weeks. Im a freelance journalist, so I pick and choose what I want to do. Ive worked on most of the continents, and, yes, I have had an interesting life. But Ill reach the half-century mark on the last day of June. I cant keep up this pace forever, so its probably time to establish some roots.
Dont you have any family?
Ive never been married, but I have four siblings scattered here and there around the United States. Due to the nature of my work, I dont keep in touch with them, except for an occasional postcard.
After living such an exciting life for so many years, do you believe you can actually change and be happy with anything else? She asked this because she was troubled about how to deal with the changes coming soon in her own life.
Micah stood, leaned his tall frame against a column, and looking down at Laurel, he said, Its possible that I will be bored with any other life. He shrugged his shoulders. I really dont know. Thats one reason I took this assignment. Its leisurely compared to my usual lifestyle, so its a good test to determine if I like a slower pace.
Its usually quiet at Oaklawn, but with Debbies wedding in August, well have more excitement than we normally have. She stood, too. Would you like to look over the house now?
That would be great. Im studying the architecture as well as the history of the homes, and a preliminary viewing would be helpful.
Chapter Two
They entered the central hall, which boasted a magnificent staircase and a crystal chandelier that had been imported from France in 1835. Laurel explained that this would be the site of Debbies wedding.
We cant seat many people in here, she explained, but since I stood on this stairway during my wedding, just as my mother-in-law did when she was married, Debbie wants to continue the tradition. Well have only family members for the wedding itself, and then all of our friends and neighbors are invited for the outdoor reception.
The house had four huge rooms on each floor with great fireplaces in each room, set off by carved walnut mantels and varnished paneling. That the Coopers had once been wealthy was evident in the priceless antiques and beautiful oil paintings in each room.
When Micah commented on the wealth of her furnishings, Laurel shrugged her shoulders. There would be wealth if I sold them, but I want to keep the house as it is for Debbie and her children. This house was one of the few in the area not raided during the Civil War. Most of these furnishings have been here for a long time. Legend has it that the Coopers buried their money and that it was never found. But my father-in-law said his ancestors gave most of their wealth to the war effort. None of the Coopers I know have been prosperous.
In the parlor, Laurel pointed out the Steinway grand piano. This piano belonged to Debbies great-grandmother. Laurel ran her fingers over the keys, testing the tone.
Debbies father played, and he filled the house with music when he was at home. Its hardly been touched since his death. But Debbie wants her wedding music played on this piano, so I had it tuned.
The house was situated on a small hill, and a spreading lawn with large, gnarled trees and spacious gardens added to the mansions magnificence. Micahs camera finger was already itching to photograph the place.
Micah thanked Laurel for the tour and returned to his apartment. The rooms were cool now. He turned off the air conditioner and raised the window facing the large stream, flowing southward at the foot of the hill. He inhaled the fragrance of the landscape flowers and settled down with his laptop to map out an itinerary for his Tennessee research.
Micah kept thinking of the delicate bone structure of Laurels oval face that ended in a determined chin, and he couldnt concentrate on his work. Laurel had experienced a rough life bringing up her child as a single parent, but shed apparently developed a strong character, while fulfilling her role as a mother. He remembered how her emerald eyes easily flared with anger as bright as a flash of lightning, only to fade just as quickly to the softness of a peaceful ocean. Her auburn hair was cut close to her head like a cap. Since shed been dressed in jeans, he was well aware of her slim waist above shapely hips, and
Whoa! Micah said aloud.
He shook his head, wondering at his thoughts. It had been a long time since hed given any thought to a woman. There was no time for romance in his busy schedule, so what had prompted this sudden surge of interest in Laurel Cooper? He decided he was just as well off not to know the answer to that one, and he shifted his thoughts to the computer screen.
By the time theyd finished their tour of the house, Laurel had been completely at ease with Micah, and now she could smile at the way shed mistaken him for a carpenter. She thought about his interesting lifehow much hed seen of the world compared to her meager travels.
She had eventually become resigned to her restricted life. Since Debbie was all they had left of their son, the Coopers were determined that their granddaughter would be raised in their home. When Laurel had mentioned going to work, or moving into a home of her own, theyd raised such a fuss that it was easier to submit to their demands rather than fight them.
Shed tried to stifle her temper when dealing with them, because theyd aged considerably after Jason was lost at sea. Theyd been good to her in many ways, but she hadnt had a life of her own. Shed received some income from a small trust fund left by her grandmother, but she was dependent on them for food and housing. And she could never have given Debbie a good education without their help.
She was surprised when theyd left everything to her, although her father-in-law had asked her in his will to keep Oaklawn for Debbies inheritance, actually controlling her life after his death. Mrs. Cooper had lived only two months after her husband, and by the time Laurel had paid their funeral expenses, there wasnt much money left.
Acting on the advice of her attorney, Kevin Cooper, Laurel had used most of that money to redo the wing into apartments. Kevin, a first cousin of Jasons, had advised that the apartments would provide a steady income for her. The apartments had supplied an income, but by the time she paid the utilities and the taxes, shed hardly broken even on the apartments. Laurel still had the upkeep of a large house, a limited income and no job experience. She was annoyed that Kevin had given her such poor advice, but she hadnt complained to him. Hed been helpful in settling her father-in-laws estate, and hed assured her that she could call on him for further help when needed.
Although shed been concerned about having Debbie leave home, Laurel wondered if it wouldnt be nice to be completely independent for a change. At forty-two she could still get an education and have a career. She had been dreading the summer, but she anticipated it now. She intended to enjoy her daughters company while they planned the wedding. And since just one evening in Micahs company had uplifted her spirits, she looked forward to seeing him often during the next few weeks.
It was amazing how quickly shed been drawn to Micah. She hadnt dated much before shed met and married Jason, and since his death she hadnt been interested enough in any man to contemplate a serious relationship with him. But Micahs quiet ways, his dry humor and his gentleness had captivated her from the first.
Laurel was still downstairs when she noticed the lights go off in Micahs apartment. The clock on the stairway chimed ten, and Laurel knew it wouldnt be long until Debbie came home. She turned off all of the downstairs lights except the ones on the back porch and in the entry hall and went upstairs. She always stayed awake until she knew Debbie was safe at home, but Laurel had avoided being a controlling mother who monitored her daughters comings and goings. If Debbie wanted to talk to her about what shed done when she was out for an evening, Laurel let her take the initiative.
After her in-laws died, Laurel had moved into their room because it commanded a good view of the river valley. She had kept the cherry bed, dresser and chest that had been handed down for several generations. But to give the room a hint of her own personality, shed had a green carpet laid and dressed the high, narrow windows in ruffled curtains that matched the rugs color. As a final touch, shed replaced the dark painted walls with a colorful, floral wallpaper.
Laurel had changed into a mint-green cotton nightgown by the time she heard Debbies light gait, taking the steps, two at a time. The door cracked slightly and Debbie whispered, Asleep, Mom?
No, come in. Im about ready for bed.
We had a fun time at the pastors house, but I almost went to sleep two or three times. It was a long flight from Colorado today. Debbie smothered a yawn and drifted over to kiss Laurels cheek. Night, Mom.
We should go into Knoxville and pick up your wedding invitations tomorrow, Laurel said, but we wont have to leave early. Sleep late if you want to.
Yawning again, Debbie waved lazily, indicating shed understood and wandered out of the room and down the hall.
Laurel sat in the wicker rocker shed brought from her grandmothers home and reached for the Bible on the small table beside the bed. For the past year, Laurel had memorized a different Scripture verse each week and used it for her special meditation. Without opening the Bible, she tried to remember this weeks verse from the book of Proverbs. A cheerful heart is good medicine.
Despite her difficult life, Laurel had, for the most part, remained cheerful. She and Jason had enjoyed a happy marriage for eighteen months until Debbie was born. But Jason had wanted Laurels full attention, and he resented Debbies claims on her. Although Debbie had toddled after him all the time, he hadnt had time for her. He worked on construction jobs that took him away for months at a time. He kept in touch with his family with occasional phone calls and infrequent checks to Laurel. Jasons parents had spoiled him as a child, and he hadnt grown up to be a responsible adult. While he was working in Texas, hed met Ryan Bledsoe, and for a year prior to his death, Jason had bummed around the country with his friend.
During those difficult days, and the time after Jasons death, Laurel had relied on her faith in God to survive. He hadnt failed her. Shed prayed for the wisdom and strength to be a good mother, and God had answered her prayer. Hed given her the strength to keep her in-laws from spoiling their granddaughter as they had their son.
Debbie had never caused her any trouble. In high school, shed made good grades, played in the band and participated in summer sports. Despite the sorrow that Laurel personally felt, she had kept her sadness from Debbie. And because of her upbeat attitude, Laurel had kept her head above water when circumstances tended to overwhelm her.
Laurel opened the double windows facing the bend in the river. The cost of air-conditioning this huge house was prohibitive, so during the summer, they stored cool air at nighttime and kept the windows and doors closed all day. The thick brick walls retained the cool air that drifted inside at night.
Before she turned off the light, Laurel walked across the hall and into the dark room shed once shared with Jason. She pulled back the heavy draperies and opened the window, providing a full view of the addition where the apartments were located.
She wondered if Micah found it difficult to sleep in strange surroundings. Probably not, since hed traveled so much. What would it be like to travel as extensively as he had? Her honeymoon to Atlanta was the farthest shed been away from Oaklawn. Derecks mother had invited her to come visit them, but with her renovation debts, Laurel was short of funds. Shed have to be conservative until she took a job and paid off that loan. Perhaps then she could go to visit Debbie and Dereck in Colorado.
Laurel hummed a hymn as she darkened her room and turned on a dim light beside her bed. She stretched, savoring the texture of the smooth sheets under her back. She crossed her hands behind her neck and listened to the cacophony of insect sounds outside the window. She also heard a cow bawling on her neighbors farmprobably trying to find its calf. The owl, nesting in the attic of Oaklawns garden house, serenaded its nesting mate. Last night the plaintive call of the owl had made her sad, but tonight she enjoyed it.
Micahs coming had lifted her spirits. The rent he paid this summer would help with her finances, but she wasnt sure that was the only reason she was pleased with her new tenant. She fell asleep thinking about him.
The ringing phone woke Laurel, and at first she thought it was the alarm clock, which shed set for seven. A glance at the clock indicated it was after midnight. Her heart thumped rapidly, and her stomach churned with anxiety and apprehension. Following her in-laws custom, Laurel had developed the habit of going to bed early. Her friends knew she didnt keep late hours, so who could be calling? She sat up and quickly lifted the receiver, hoping the phone hadnt wakened Debbie. Maybe there was an emergency among the church family.
She swallowed with difficulty and hesitantly answered. Hello?
Her apprehension increased when no one answered her greeting. She knew someone was on the line because she heard uneven breathing. She almost dropped the phone when a pleasant, tenor voice started singing the words of an old song.
I looked over Jordan, and what did I see
Coming for to carry me home?
A band of angels coming after me,
Coming for to carry me home.
After a significant pause, the man said, Be ready, Laurel, were coming after you.
Laurel dropped the phone receiver on the floor, and reached out a trembling finger to sever the connection. She childishly pinched her arm to be sure she wasnt dreaming.
She ran to the bathroom, sick to her stomach, and retched. Laurel rinsed her mouth, gulped a glass of water and staggered back to bed.
She was sorry now that she hadnt stayed on the phone. She replaced the phone in its cradle and lay awake the rest of the night. Was there any way she could trace the call?
After shed squirmed in the bed for several hours, Laurel got up, dressed in an ankle-length floral skirt and a soft, white cotton blouse, and quietly went downstairs. Because of the isolation of the house, she had two dusk-to-dawn security lights, which kept the grounds and the house partially illuminated all night long. Creeping along in the muted light, Laurel entered the kitchen and closed the door so she wouldnt wake Debbie. She filled the teakettle with water and, while she waited for it to boil, placed a tea bag in her favorite mug.
Once made, Laurel wrapped her hands around the steaming cup and went to the screened back porch, where shed encountered Micah yesterday. The front gallery contained only antique rocking chairs, but after shed taken over ownership of the house, Laurel had made the back porch into a cozy, relaxing area.
Laurel sat on a padded lounge chair and sipped the tea as she contemplated what to do. If shed had caller ID, she might have determined the identity of her caller, but with her limited income, she cut corners when she could, and the latest technology wasnt high on her priority list.
When daylight dispelled the darkness, Laurel became aware of movement at her side. Remembering the threatening phone call, the cup tottered in her hand. Micah Davidson walked across the lawn. He halted when he saw her, and momentarily she wondered if hed been the caller.
Good morning, he said. Youre up early.
Earlier than usual, she answered. Couldnt you sleep?
I dont usually sleep more than six hours, and I went to bed early. I had breakfast while I waited for enough daylight to look around. You dont mind if I explore your property, do you?
Of course not. Theres a cleared path to the river if you want to go that way.
Thats where I was heading. Would you have time to walk with me? I could use a guide.
Yes, Id like a walk, she said eagerly. She wasnt in the mood for conversation, but it might be a good idea to learn more about Micah Davidson. She swung her feet off the lounge, kicked off the soft scuffs she wore and reached under the chair for a pair of walking shoes. She quickly pulled on the socks shed stored in the toes of the shoes, and in a few minutes had joined Micah.
Pointing to the left, Laurel said, The best path is through the orchard.
The lawn was neatly mowed until they reached the orchard, then weeds grew profusely in the path. Laurels long skirt was soon wet from the abundant dew on the grass.
In your research of Southern homes, youve probably heard many stories about keepsakes the Confederates buried before the invaders came. I mentioned Oaklawns story to you last night. Supposedly a Cooper ancestor buried gold and silver in this orchard, but the cache was never found.
Not even after the war?
No, Laurel said, and her eyes sparkled, temporarily replacing the pain Micah had noticed. My father-in-law said that when he was a boy, he and his brother dug from one end of that field to the other and didnt find any money. But the cultivation did give them a bumper crop of fruit for a few years.
Micah gazed appreciatively at the grainfields and the lush pastureland along the river.
Oaklawn isnt as large as it was in the eighteenth century, Laurel continued as they walked. At one time, the Coopers owned a thousand acres, but theyve had to sell parcels of land during hard times. The farm is only fifty acres now. Actually, Im glad its no more than that, because I cant even manage that much land. My neighbor, Pete Howe, rents the farmland, so I only care for the few acres around the house. I have a riding mower, so it isnt difficult work, but it does keep me busy during the summer. Especially this year, when I want everything to look nice for the wedding.
Although shed hoped walking would take her mind off the mysterious phone call, it didnt, and she lapsed into silence, trying to figure out who had called her. The singers voice didnt sound familiar at all.
Micah walked slightly behind Laurel since the path was narrow, but he was aware of her downcast eyes. When shed joined him for the walk, hed noticed at once that she wasnt the contented woman hed talked with on the gallery the night before. Had something happened to disturb her, or did it take a while for her to get going in the morning?
Id appreciate hearing anything you know about Oaklawn, Micah said. I want to feature the history of the homes, as well as the architecture.
Laurel wasnt in the mood for visiting, but taking a deep breath and staring straight ahead as they walked, she said, The Coopers moved here soon after the Revolutionary War. The place was a wilderness then. They lived in log cabins and had the usual troubles with the Native Americans that most settlers had. Eventually they prospered enough for Debbies great-great-grandfather to build the original brick house, but the Cooper wealth declined over the next century.
When they passed a knoll where the family cemetery was located, Micah commented, I suppose your husband is buried here.
No, he isnt, she said bluntly, because she didnt like to think about Jasons death.
Micah couldnt imagine why his question had annoyed her. They were both silent as they walked downhill to the northern bank of the shallow river. A wide beach of sand and gravel had formed at a sharp bend in the stream. Overhanging trees provided a secluded area. A few ramshackle lawn chairs and a wooden bench had been placed several feet from the water. Laurel walked to one of the sturdier chairs and sat down.
Do people go swimming or fishing here?
Mostly fishing, Laurel said shortly, her eyes on the river.
Did his presence annoy her, or was she troubled about something else?
After a pause, she continued, But there is a deep pool midway in the stream. The local boys go to the other side of the river, swing on the vines and drop into the pool. Its a dangerous practice. One boy was seriously hurt here last summer, but they continue to swim.
The gentle ripple of the water as it slid past them was quieting, and the peace of the place was soothing to Micah. After spending over a year in the jungle, the past three months in the Statesmostly in citieshad frustrated him. The noise of traffic had grated on his nerves. Pleased to have this sojourn in a quiet place, Micah sat on the wooden bench facing upstream. In this position, he could watch Laurel without being obvious about it.
Her present attitude didnt compare to her quick flash of anger yesterday, which had disappeared as quickly as it had come. Her eyes brooded today, and there was a petulant droop to her full lips.
Early sunlight peeked into the shaded glade, a fish flipped in the middle of the stream and birds gently began their morning songs.
Without looking at him, her eyes staring across the river, Laurel said, Mr. Davidson, I should apologize to you again. I had an unpleasant experience last night, or I wouldnt have been so short-tempered. Let me give you a reasonable answer to your question about my husbands burial. Its always been a sore subject to me, but you wouldnt have known that.
Chapter Three
Several minutes passed before Laurel continued, and to spare her embarrassment, Micah kept his eyes on the river. A small flock of ducks drifted lazily with the current. Occasionally, one of them would tilt forward into the river for a morning snack.
Twenty years ago, Jason and a friend were sailing off the Atlantic coast of South America, and their boat capsized, Laurel said quietly. Their bodies were never recovered. He was an only child, and his parents never got over his death.
He noticed that she didnt mention her own sorrow. If shed been a widow for so long, perhaps the pain was gone. But why hadnt she remarried? Judging by his own immediate attraction to her, she must have had plenty of suitors.
As though she read his thoughts, Laurel said, Debbie, who was only two at the time, was all his parents had left of Jason. As I mentioned last night, they insisted that I stay at Oaklawn and raise my child here. I was glad to stay, because I didnt have any other place to go.
Many questions rose in Micahs mind. Why was her husbands death a sore point? She spoke as if she resented him, but it wasnt any of his business. Laurel would tell him what she wanted him to know.
Although its been a labor of love to rear Debbie as a single parent, it hasnt been easy for me. Im ashamed to admit it, but Ive always resented Jason taking that trip and getting killed when he should have stayed home and looked after his family. Debbie has missed a lot by not having a father.
Micah silently thought that Debbie might have been better off without her fathers presence. Jason Cooper sounded like a selfish man.
His parents hoped almost to the end that Jason was still alive. When they at last conceded that he was dead, they didnt live long. My mother-in-law survived her husband by two months. They wanted me to preserve the house for Debbie. Im trying to do what they asked me to.
It hasnt been easy for you, Im sure.
She nodded sadly. Besides the work, its a financial burden. As soon as Debbie is married, I intend to find a job, even though I have no marketable work skills. Shell be moving to Colorado, so Ill have lots of time on my hands. Ive been looking into possible employment, but I dont have many job skills. Im considering taking a two-year business course at the college. But these decisions are on hold until Debbie is married.
She stood up quickly. And speaking of Debbie, were going into Knoxville this morning, so I have to go back to the house.
I have an appointment to look over a home in Nashville today, so I want to get started, too.
They didnt talk as they returned to the house, but Micah hummed in a monotone that grated on Laurels already distraught nerves. She tried to determine the tune, but if he had any particular song in mind, it was one she didnt know.
Thanks for walking with me. I like to be outdoors early in the morning, he said, giving her a sideways glance.
So do I. Take care while youre traveling today, she answered, and he favored her with a wide smile.
Mom, what is wrong with you? Debbie asked in the midst of a disastrous breakfast. Laurel had burned the grits, upended a cup of coffee on the tablecloth and, instead of providing jelly for their toast, picked up a jar of mustard and slid it across the table. Ive never seen you so jumpy. Are you sick?
Sitting down and gripping her hands in her lap underneath the table, Laurel tried to calm her inner trembling.
I didnt sleep much last night, she said, unable to stifle the tremor in her voice. Ill be all right as soon as Ive had a cup of coffee.
To prove her point, Laurel poured another cup. Coffee sloshed over the brim and into the saucer as she lifted the cup. Debbie cast another startled glance toward her.
Go back to bed, and forget the trip to Knoxville, Debbie said, concern in her voice. We can pick up the invitations tomorrow.
Oh, no, Laurel said, and forced a smile. I want to go today. She had to do something to keep her mind off of her nighttime caller.
Sensing Debbies gaze upon her again, Laurel knew she was staring fixedly out the window. Determined to retain some sense of normalcy, she spread butter over the grits on her plate and ate them and the egg in front of her as if she had a good appetite.
If you want to fill the dishwasher, Ill go upstairs and get ready.
Ill take care of everything, but I still think we should postpone our trip, Debbie insisted.
Laurel forced a laugh. This isnt the first time Ive been tired when Ive gotten out of bed. Lets plan to leave in an hour.
While she luxuriated in the big bathtub and lathered vigorously with her lavender-scented bath gel, Laurel thought about Micah Davidson. Although shed fleetingly wondered if Micah could have been the midnight caller, after shed heard him humming this morning, shed discounted that idea. Micah had a bass voice, and he couldnt carry a tune. The man on the phone had a melodious tenor voice. Thinking about Micah lifted Laurels spirits, and she decided she wouldnt allow last nights incident to ruin her day with Debbie.
Stepping from the tub, Laurel patted her body dry with a large towel. She applied body lotion, and for a moment her worries receded as the lotion soothed her body. Laurel habitually denied herself for others, but she did indulge herself with a fragrant bath.
After dressing in a pair of striped capris and a white knit blouse, she sat in her grandmothers rocking chair for her morning devotions. She felt close to her grandmother in this chair, since she was the one who had guided Laurels spiritual maturation. She turned to her grandmothers favorite Scripture in the book of Philippians and read softly.
I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
Her grandmother hadnt had an easy life, but shed never doubted that God had sustained her through each problem. Laurel, too, had experienced enough sorrow since her marriage to make her bitter, but shed kept a degree of contentment, in spite of the circumstances.
Fortified by the words shed read, Laurel left her room with less trepidation than shed had since that mysterious phone call. As soon as she and Debbie drove away from Oaklawn, Laurel pushed the call to the back of her mind. They had a pleasant day as they picked up the wedding invitations, registered for more of Debbies gift preferences at two stores and enjoyed a lunch in their favorite Chinese restaurant.
For the next two nights, knowing that she was taking the cowards way out, Laurel disconnected the phone when she went to bed. Although her body tensed each time she heard the phone during the day, she had no mysterious messages. Occasionally, she wondered if the call had been a dream.
Debbie worked on the evening shift at a fast-food restaurant in Knoxville. For the first three days after hed moved into the apartment, Micah also left early and didnt return until late, so Laurel was alone most of the time. On Saturday evening, as Laurel sat on the gallery, she heard a car approaching. When she saw that it was Micah, she waved to him. In a short time, she heard his steps on the graveled pathway.
Good evening, Mrs. Cooper, he said.
You might as well call me Laurel. Were not very formal in this neighborhood.
Im not formal at all, he said, So good evening, Laurel.
A dimple at the corner of her mouth deepened. Hello, Micah. Youre home early.
Yes. Ive had a busy week, so Im ready for some rest.
Come and sit down, she invited. This is a good place to relax. Its been a hectic week for me, too, and I had to take time to let my body catch up with my soul. Im preparing myself for worship tomorrow. Will you go to church with us in the morning?
Settling down in the rocking chair beside her and stretching out his long legs, Micah said, I havent been to church for so long, I wouldnt know how to act.
With a smile, Laurel said, I doubt things have changed much since you used to go to church. We have a small sanctuary and a simple order of worship. You wouldnt have a problem.
Fact is, Micah said, Im not much interested in organized churches anymore. Ive spent my adult life traveling, mostly in isolated places, where there arent any church buildings. I worship the God of Creation. I can have church anywhere.
Disturbed by his comments, Laurel said, Im sure thats true, but dont you miss the fellowship of other Christians? I need the strength and support I receive on Sunday to deal with any problems I might have during the week.
Micah seemed to deliberate a few moments before he answered. In my line of work, sometimes months pass without the opportunity to worship with a congregation. But when I see Gods handiwork in what Hes createdthe skies, the trees, the animalsits easy for me to worship.
Laurel wasnt normally argumentative about the Scriptures, but she had the feeling that Micah was missing the most important principle. Thats all well and good, she said, as long as you acknowledge the place of Jesus, Gods Son, in the creation of the world.
Micah looked puzzled, and he said, I remember something about that from my childhood when I went to Sunday School.
Laurel didnt press her opinion at that time. She, too, could see God in the universe around her. And she believed it was only a short distance from acknowledging God, Who created the world, and believing that His Son, Jesus, was the Savior of mankind. She doubted that Micah had made that connection.
Then you will go to church with Debbie and me tomorrow?
Yes, thank you. Im looking forward to meeting your daughter. With my long hours, Ive missed my chances so far.
Laurel said proudly, I know Im prejudiced, but she is a fine girl.
Micah thought if Debbie was anything like her mother, she would be worth meeting.
Hesitantly, Laurel continued, If were asking something that you dont want to do, please say so. But Debbie wants to know if youll consider photographing her wedding on August twenty-fifth. Will you still be in Tennessee then?
Im not sure, but if I agree to photograph the wedding, Ill come back for it. But you should know that, although Ive photographed a few weddings, Im not at my best when photographing people. I prefer landscapes or anything in the natural environment.
Let me show you what we have in mind before you make a commitment.
A gentle breeze blew from the river as they walked into the wide expanse of yard to the left of the house. The breeze ruffled Laurels red curls, and as she pointed out various things, Micah observed her, wondering that her red hair hadnt a trace of gray. Modern hair colors could work wonders, but he doubted there was a rinse on her hair.
Weve chosen the southern lawn for the reception, she explained. Were planning an early afternoon wedding, and the house will shade most of this area. The lawn is rather spacious, as you can see. Were expecting about a hundred guests, but its an open wedding list, so its difficult to know how many well have. Weve rented tents and tables. If we have an overflow, some of them can sit under the shade trees. The ladies of our church are cooking the dinner.
Micah sauntered around the area, looking at it with his professional eye, considering the shading and judging the position of the sun in three months.
What time is the ceremony? he asked.
The music will start at one oclock, and the processional a half hour later.
Then, Id say this is an ideal spot. The light should be good for photographs.
The formal pictures will be taken inside. We want candid shots of activities here on the lawn. Derecks father plans to make a video, but we want some professional pictures for albums.
Are they having many attendants?
Just one each, plus a flower girl and a ring bearer Derecks niece and nephew. She halted, and looked out over the river. Without any close male relatives, Ill have to give her away.
Her voice faltered a little, and Micah quickly glanced her way. Pretty difficult to do, huh? he said sympathetically.
Yes, especially since theyre moving to Colorado. The groom is an engineer, and he has a job there. Besides, Colorado is his home state.
And youll be all alone.
Laurel turned away and started walking toward the house.
Im sorry, Laurel. I shouldnt have said that. Not being a parent, I cant quite understand your fears.
You dont need to apologize. I will miss her, but Ive tried not to tie her to my apron strings. Ive learned to love Oaklawn, but in a way, its been a prison to me. Im trying to preserve the place for Debbie, never knowing if shell ever want to live here. Her future husband travels a lot with his job, but I dont want her to feel tied to Oaklawn. Im anticipating Debbies wedding as a turning point in my life, too.
He followed her up the steps to the gallery.
Ill be happy to photograph the wedding.
Thank you so much, Laurel said. Debbie will be very pleased.
Laurel felt a welcome surge of excitement. She was assured of Micahs presence the rest of the summer, and she could have shouted for joy. Trying to control her exuberance, she said, Well start for church at ten-thirty.
Micah said good-night and sauntered toward his apartment. But he turned back, and at his quiet approach, he saw that Laurel sat with her head in her hands. He scuffled his feet, and when he reached the steps of the gallery, she was sitting erect, her eyes suspiciously moist.
Will you and Debbie go with me for lunch after church?
Thats nice of you, she said. I dont know Debbies work schedule for Sunday, but she tries not to work on Sunday morning. Thanks for asking us.
Since Im new in the area, Ill leave it up to you to choose a restaurant.
Laurel nodded, but the despair in her eyes saddened him. She was disturbed about something, and he didnt think it was Debbies leaving. Micah wanted to help, but he couldnt intrude into a place Laurel didnt want him to go.
Chapter Four
Micah would never have dreamed that Sunday morning would find him searching the closet to find something suitable to wear to church. Why had he accepted Laurels invitation to go with her today, when he hadnt attended an organized worship service for years?
He hadnt thought hed need dress clothes for the summer, and most of his garments consisted of denim pants and shorts. His suits and ties were at his house in Kansas. He sorted through his garment bags and came up with a new polo shirt and a pair of trousers, both in need of pressing. Laurel had provided an ironing board and iron for her renters, and while he waited for the iron to heat, Micah shined his shoes.
He hoped his casual clothes would be acceptable at Laurels church. Not that he ever gave much thought to what people thought, but he didnt want Laurel to be ashamed of his appearance. Confused by his preoccupation with Laurel and her affairs, he wandered restlessly around the apartment.
He couldnt understand her obvious attachment to Oaklawn. Hed been on the move all of his adult life, and the only land he owned was a quarter-section of farmland in Kansas. Hed inherited the property from a maternal uncle a few years ago, and he used the farm to store the possessions he couldnt haul around with him.
He rented the land to a farmer whose farm adjoined his, and the farmers wife cleaned and aired his four-room house monthly. The farm was valuable to him as a good source of income, but he visited the place infrequently. Obviously, Laurel wasnt making much money from Oaklawn, so her attachment to the place must be sentimental.
As Micah paced, he wondered why he couldnt put down roots like other people. Was he destined to be a wanderer to the end of his days? He didnt want to settle down in Kansas, which was hot and dry in summer and cold and windy in the winter. Micah felt as strong and competent as he had when he was a teenager. He had several years before he needed to retire, so why was he thinking of settling down? Not willing to acknowledge the reason for his discontent, he decided to put these perplexing emotions out of his mind.
When he finished dressing and took a look in the full-length mirror on the closet door, Micah decided he looked acceptable. Laurel had said the church was small, and it was a hot morning, so he assumed none of the men would be wearing suits.
After he cleared the seats of the car and put all of his photographic equipment in the apartment, he tapped on Laurels back door. A lovely sight in her Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes, Laurel opened the door and greeted him. He thought she looked like a child playacting in her mothers clothes. With her diminutive stature, delicate body, and a shy smile hovering on her lips, she seemed like a little girl dressed up for her first party. She wore an ankle-length black skirt and black sandals. The scoop-necked blouse was an ivory color that blended charmingly with her pearl-like complexion.
When Laurels lashes dropped, and a telltale flush appeared on her cheeks, Micah realized hed been staring.
Good morning, Laurel, he said. Am I too early?
Not at all, she stammered, still flustered by Micahs intent appraisal. Debbie is a little late. We both overslept this morning.
She motioned to the chairs on the porch. Shall we sit and wait for her? We still have half an hour before services begin, and its only a ten-minute drive to Bethel Church.
But before they could be seated, quick steps sounded in the hallway, and Debbie stepped out on the porch. She was a pretty young woman of above average height, but she had few characteristics of her petite mother. Debbies hair was straight instead of curly. Her eyes were brown instead of green. Apparently Debbie looked like her fathers side of the family. Since Debbie was dressed in casual slacks and a knit blouse, Micah decided that his attire was suitable for their church.
Have I kept you waiting long? she asked.
Debbie, Laurel said, this is Micah Davidson. And looking at her daughter with unmistakable pride, she added, Micah, my daughter, Debbie.
Pleased to meet you, Mr. Davidson, Debbie said with genuine warmth. Ive seen your work featured on TV several times. Youre a fantastic photographer.
Thanks. I enjoy my work.
Have you ever considered writing a book about your exploits?
Im having one published in a few months, he said, with a wide smile.
Out of the corner of his eye, Micah noticed that Laurel was fidgeting from one foot to the other.
Should we go now? he asked.
Yes, Laurel said. I dont want to be late. You sit in the front seat, Debbie, youre better at giving directions than I am.
They passed Walden College on the way to worship, and Micah wondered why he was hesitant to tell Laurel hed been invited to teach there.
The sedate brick buildings, dating to the early twentieth century, looked quiet and confining. After hed been his own taskmaster for twenty-five years, could he endure working on a regular, day-by-day schedule arranged by someone else? Was he too set in his ways to ever change?
He turned his thoughts from the college to another unaccustomed experience when Debbie, who sat beside him on the front seat, directed him to the parking lot of Bethel Church. According to the sign over the door, the church had been built in 1910. When Micah followed Debbie and Laurel up the center aisle into the small sanctuary, he admired the Gothic-style architecture of the windows and the ceiling, as well as the ornately carved pews. They sat beside a stained-glass window placed in memory of the Cooper family.
The soft strains of the organ music were peaceful, but Micah momentarily longed for the soft stirring of the wind and the sounds of nature that he usually heard when he worshiped. Sitting between Debbie and Laurel, he felt confined like a bird with its wings clipped, as if his spirit could never soar again.
He probably would have bolted if hed had free access to the door, but when an usher raised all the windows in the sanctuary, he could hear birds singing. A gentle breeze wafted the strong scent of honeysuckle into the church. He breathed deeply of the fresh air and relaxed.
Micah took a quick survey of the congregation, seeing only one man, other than the minister, who had on a suit and tie.
Laurel handed Micah a hymnal when the preacher announced the first song. It was a song he didnt know, but he followed the words on the page as he listened to Debbies strong soprano blending with Laurels alto voice. Micah had been told by a high-school music teacher that he had a pleasant speaking voice, but when he sang, he croaked like a frog. Thereafter, hed never joined in group singing, but when he was out on a job alone, hed belt out the words of any song that took his fancy, with or without a tune. A croaking frog was acceptable in the great outdoors.
When the pastor asked for unspoken requests before the morning prayer, Laurel lifted her hand. The haunted expression Micah had seen in her eyes when theyd walked yesterday morning had returned. And during the prayer, he sensed her lips were moving in silent petition.
Micah had a Bible somewhere among his possessions, but he hadnt carried it on his travels, and he hadnt read it for a long time. His parents had instilled a belief in God in his heart, but even as a child hed avoided group worship. Everything he photographed, especially the different species of animals and plants hed seen in various parts of the world, had filled him with wonder and awe at the majesty of the God Who had created the world.
Bruce Jensen, the preacher, was an unpretentious, thin, middle-aged man, but he was sincere and his obvious knowledge held Micahs attention. He listened eagerly as Pastor Jensen started his sermon.
According to the preacher, Jesus and His disciples had been traveling through Samaria when theyd encountered a woman with a bad reputation. She had attempted to conceal her lifestyle by comparing the Jewish method of worship with the way the Samaritans worshiped.
Intrigued by this subject that was of importance to him, Micah listened intently when Pastor Jensen read a few verses from the Bible, giving the reference as the fourth chapter of John.
A time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is a spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.
According to these words, his method of worship was as valid as the way Laurel worshiped. But doubt arose in Micahs heart as the preacher explained the passage more fully. In summing up the conversation between Jesus and the Samaritan Woman, Pastor Jensen said that Jesus turned the subject from the place where one worships to the Person who is worshiped. He explained that God is the Lord of all, and that He can be worshiped anywhere. But the only acceptable worship involves the entire heart, mind and the truth of God as revealed in the Scripture.
To that point, the preachers message and Micahs method of worship seemed compatible. But when Pastor Jensen continued, Micah conceded that he may have missed the essence of true worship.
When people asked Jesus to show them the way to God, He had replied, I and the Father are one. He who has seen me has seen the Father. At a later time, Jesus had said, No man cometh to the Father except by me.
Pastor Jensen concluded his message by quoting another Scripture, He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. Until people accept Jesus, the Son of God, into their hearts, there can be no worship.
As the congregation rose for the benediction, Micah realized that if the preachers words were true, his methods of worship had not pleased God.
Micah had his hand wrung by most of the congregation at the end of the service, and he had many invitations to become a part of their fellowship while he was in the community. While Laurel and Debbie visited with their friends, he circled the building looking with interest at the architecture. If he accepted a position at Walden College, he might research historic churches of the South for an article or a TV feature. Bethel Church could be included.
Where are we going for lunch? he asked as he opened the car doors. Again, Laurel took the back seat, leaving the front for Debbie.
You call it, Mom. Where do you want to go?
How about that nice Sunday buffet at the restaurant on the road to Knoxville? They have a good choice of food.
Give me directions, Debbie, Micah said.
As he started the engine, she said, Oh, wait. Here comes our cousin, Kevin. He must want to meet you.
But the man approached the passenger side of the car. He opened the rear door and handed an envelope to Laurel.
I was worried Id miss you today. This letter came to my office last week. Ive intended to drop by Oaklawn and give it to you, but Ive been busy.
Laurel took the envelope and glanced at the typed address. Mrs. Jason Cooper, c/o Kevin Cooper, Attorney at Law. She hadnt had a letter addressed to Mrs. Jason Cooper for a long time. Her hands stiffened and her eyes blurred. Could this have anything to do with her mysterious phone call?
She was thankful for a moment to compose herself when Debbie said, Cousin Kevin, did you meet our tenant? Kevin Cooper, Micah Davidson, she said.
Kevin Cooper extended a hand across the front seat and gave Micah a hearty handshake. Kevin was the only man other than the minister whod been wearing a suit. He was a tall, portly man with a mane of shoulder-length gray hair and a full gray beard. His appearance reminded Micah of an antebellum Southern planter.
Going to stay long at Oaklawn? Kevin said.
Two or three months, Micah answered.
Everything going all right, Laurel? Kevin asked affably.
Yes, the wedding plans are moving along quite well, she said with an effort.
Glad to hear it, her cousin-in-law said. Ill try to stop by this week. Glad to meet you, Mr. Davidson. It relieves my mind that youll be around Oaklawn this summer. When the apartments are empty, I worry about my cousins living in such an isolated place.
Kevin closed the door and Micah drove out of the church parking lot.
Cousin Kevin is a nice guy, Debbie said. He was my daddys second cousin, and hes been very good to Mom and me after my grandparents died. If hes worried about the two of us living alone at Oaklawn, I dont know what hell think when Mom is there by herself.
Laurel remained silent.
Following Debbies instructions, Micah left the narrow county road and accessed the highway. Micah had been prepared to dislike Debbie, because hed gotten the impression that she imposed on her mother. Or at least hed gathered that Laurel carried the whole burden of family decisions. After chatting with her about college life and her upcoming marriage, he decided she wasnt a spoiled brat, but an intelligent, compassionate young lady.
Suddenly it occurred to Micah that Laurel hadnt said a word since theyd left the churchyard, and he glanced quickly over his shoulder. Her eyes were closed, her face was the color of ashes, and her hand crushed the letter Kevin Cooper had given her.
Hey, Mom, Debbie said, not looking at her mother, but indicating a turn that Micah should take. Who was your letter from?
Micah heard Laurel open and close her purse. As he made the sharp left-hand turn, he had a slight glimpse of Laurels hands. The letter wasnt in sight.
Oh, just a piece of junk mail.
Seems strange anyone would send your mail to Cousin Kevins office.
Laurel didnt answer.
Probably one of your admirers sneaking a letter to you so I wouldnt see it, Debbie teased.
If she had been disturbed by the letters contents, Laurel had regained her composure by the time they reached the restaurant. But her gaiety seemed forced, and occasionally her eyes held a resentful, frightened look. Debbie didnt seem to notice, so Micah wondered if he was imagining things. Maybe the letter had been junk mail, but he didnt think so.
Debbie was interested in Micahs work, and she plied him with questions while they ate a leisurely meal. It was easy for Laurel to remain silent and mull over this latest threat to her peace of mind. Although as Micah answered Debbies queries, Laurel sensed his speculative gaze toward her.
Whats the most interesting place youve ever photographed? Debbie asked.
Thats a hard one, Micah said. Ive been at this work a long time. Ive had assignments all over the world.
Do you speak several languages? Laurel asked in an effort to keep Debbie from knowing how near the breaking point she was.
French and Spanish reasonably well. Ive picked up a smattering of German, as well as a lot of Asian dialectsat least enough that I can find my way around in several countries.
At the dessert bar, Micah chose a large portion of apple cobbler, topped with a dollop of soft ice cream. Debbie took carrot cake, but Laurel picked up one cookie, wondering if she could eat it. The food shed already eaten seemed like a lead weight in her stomach, and she felt nauseous. She desperately needed to be alone. The waitress brought Laurel and Micah fresh cups of coffee, and Debbie had a refill of iced tea.
But you cant pick out a favorite place? Debbie persisted, while they ate their desserts.
Not on the spot like this. Im always so busy looking forward to a new assignment that I rarely think about previous ones. Ill have to go through my scrapbooks and slide files and see if I can choose a favorite. Then perhaps I can revisit the area, and make a comparison of my impressions during my original research and what they are on my second visit.
Seems like an excellent idea to me, Debbie said. She must have suddenly realized how quiet her mother had been, because Debbie covered Laurels hand with hers. Say, Mom, were leaving you out of the conversation. I always talk too much. Its your turn to ask Micah some questions.
Laurel had noticed that Debbie and Micah had reached a first-name relationship right away. Determined that Debbie wouldnt notice her distress, Laurel forced a smile and said, Youre doing enough talking for both of us. But if Micah cant think of a favorite place hes photographed, Ill settle for one of the most exotic places hes explored.
I have a large number of those to choose from, he said. Machu Picchu comes to mind. Youve heard of it?
The name was familiar, but Laurel couldnt remember what or where it was.
Some kind of an Inca site in Peru, right? Debbie replied.
Right. I went there about ten years ago. I rode a train from Cusco, Peru, to a little village at the foot of an Andean mountain where the historical site is located. I took a rickety bus along a narrow, curvy road to the top of the mountain. The driver handled that bus like he was driving a race car. After the ride up the mountain, I would have walked back down if it hadnt been for all the heavy equipment I had with me.
Sorry to show my ignorance, but you two college graduates will have to refresh my memory on what Machu Picchu is, Laurel said, wishing as she often had before that shed gone to college instead of getting married at eighteen.
Its one of the most beautiful and perplexing sights Ive ever seen, Micah said. The Inca people carved hundreds of stone structures from the granite mountaintop in the fifteenth century. It was a self-contained city invisible from the valley below. When it was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, a Yale archaeologist, the jungle had taken over the site. Although the village is in ruins, enough of the dwellings are left to get an accurate idea of how the Incas lived and worshiped. I camped on the mountain one night and spent hours worshiping God, but after todays sermon, Im not sure I worshiped Him in spirit and in truth.
Glancing at her watch, Debbie said, I hate to break up our pleasant meal, but I have to be at work in an hour.
.
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, (https://www.litres.ru/irene-brand/listen-to-your-heart-39921418/) .
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Irene Brand
Laurel Cooper was too busy planning her only daughter's wedding to make time for romance.But the fortysomething widow couldn't ignore the rugged photojournalist who'd appeared on her doorstep to photograph her antebellum home-turned-boarding house. Especially not when they spent so much time together as she gave him tours of other local historic homes.Micah Davidson made himself indispensable, even covering the wedding as a favor for his lovely new landlady. Yet just as Micah was about to propose, a shocking photograph surfaced, turning Laurel's world upside down. Could their love outlast the long-buried secrets from Laurel's past?
My cell phone number is on the card, so please feel free to call. Did your cousin have reason to think you might be in danger?
Laurel forced a laugh. Of course not. Were perfectly safe.
But considering the telephone call and the letter in her purse, Laurel hoped her optimistic words had disguised her inner turmoil from her daughter Debbie and from Michah.
Cousin Kevin is a worrywart, Debbie said. We have nothing to fear from our neighbors, and travelers wouldnt know theres a house out here.
But you are isolated, Michah insisted, so please contact me if you need anything. Ill be here almost every night.
Michahs eyes revealed a warm tenderness and concern that made Laurels heart beat faster. Knowing his strength and intelligence were at her beck and call gave her the assurance that she desperately needed.
IRENE BRAND
Writing has been a lifelong interest of this author, who says that she started her first novel when she was eleven years old and hasnt finished it yet. However, since 1984 shes published thirty-two contemporary and historical novels and three nonfiction titles. She started writing professionally in 1977 after she completed her masters degree in history at Marshall University. Irene taught in secondary public schools for twenty-three years, but retired in 1989 to devote herself to writing.
Consistent involvement in the activities of her local church has been a source of inspiration for Irenes work. Traveling with her husband, Rod, to all fifty states, and to thirty-two foreign countries has also inspired her writing. Irene is grateful to the many readers who have written to say that her inspiring stories and compelling portrayals of characters with strong faith have made a positive impression on their lives. You can write to her at P.O. Box 2770, Southside, WV 25187 or visit her Web site at www.irenebrand.com.
Listen to Your Heart
Irene Brand
But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.
II Thessalonians 3:3
To Carlene Thompson, a fellow writer and former student, whose fiction books have earned her a noteworthy reputation in the world of mystery and suspense.
And to Keith Biggs, also a former student, who contributes to my writing career by keeping my computers in working condition.
Contents
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Chapter Fifteen
Chapter Sixteen
Letter to Reader
Chapter One
Persistent rain drummed a staccato rhythm on the tin roof of the back porch as Laurel Cooper leaned a ladder against the outside wall of her Tennessee antebellum home.
There would have to be another downpour before that lazy contractor got here, Laurel fumed. She tied her raincoats hood over her red hair and climbed the ladder. Laurel shook her fist at an offending eaves spout, which, rather than draining as it should, was spewing water into her favorite bed of hostas.
Laurel had learned to do a lot of things since shed been the owner of Oaklawn, but this was the first time shed tackled a leak in the middle of a thunderstorm. The raincoat provided some protection from the torrent as she took a hammer out of one of her pockets, stuck some nails in her mouth and leaned toward a metal strap that had broken and caused the gutter to separate. She scowled at several miniature ponds in her landscaping. With all of these delays, how could she possibly beautify Oaklawn in time for Debbies August wedding just three months from now?
Believing she was alone, Laurel almost fell off the ladder when a loud knock sounded at the nearby door. Recovering her balance, she peered through the screened back porch. Protected by a large umbrella, a man stood at the door.
Its high time you got here, Laurel shouted above a roll of thunder. Ive been waiting two days for you to come and do what should have been done weeks ago.
I beg your pardon, the man said.
And so you should, Laurel answered crossly. My hostas are about ruined. Come and fix this leak.
He left the doorstep and walked languidly toward her. She didnt recognize him, but the contractor whod renovated her home employed a lot of people. Shed seen many different workers during the renovation. As this man approached, Laurel backed down the ladder. She extended the hammer and nails to him, irritated that a workman would appear on her doorstep empty-handed.
A smile seemed to lurk at the corners of his mouth, but his vivid blue eyes were unfathomable. He laid aside the umbrella, took the hammer and nails and obediently climbed the ladder. It isnt funny! Laurel said angrily. I spent more money than I can afford on this project, and this is the fourth time Ive had to have one of your workers redo something.
The workman winced when a spurt of water splashed his face and drenched the front of his shirt.
Laurel bit her lips to stifle further comments, since her conscience hurt a little because the man was getting soaked. Maybe she should have delayed the repair until the rain was over, but she couldnt afford to replace the plants. Besides, why would he come to work on a day like this dressed only in a cotton shirt and dress trousers? And without any tools? She knew reliable workers were hard to find, but this was ridiculous!
With a few deft movements, the man squeezed the guttering together, pounded three nails in the brace that held the guttering to the building, and the leak was fixed. Still atop the ladder, he turned and said, Is the work satisfactory now, maam?
His long, thick black hair, dusted with gray, was plastered to his head. Compelling blue eyes gleamed from his square, tanned face. He wasnt a particularly handsome man, but his clinging wet clothes revealed a tall, rugged, perfectly proportioned body. Why did she have the feeling he was laughing at her?
Laurel realized shed been staring at the man when he prodded, If the work suits you, Id like to find a drier place. Im reminded of my dads expression about people who didnt know enough to come in out of the rain.
Annoyed because of his suspected levity, Laurel answered tartly, As long as the water is going down the gutter, its okay. Im sorry you got wet, but you should know better than to come to work on a day like this without a raincoat. Come inside, theres something else I want you to do.
Micah Davidson stepped down and handed the hammer to Laurel. He shouldered the ladder and set it on the porch, then picked up his umbrella and joined her. His humor at the situation was tempered by the fact that he was drenched.
Maam, he said, let me introduce myself
This way, Laurel said, and motioned imperiously. He followed her into the broad entryway of the palatial mansion. She untied the hood, shrugged out of her raincoat and hung it on the rack by the door.
Micahs eyes widened appreciably. The womans red hair, with tints of reddish gold, clung to her head in short curls. She had alabaster skin and a petite body, giving her an appearance of fragile beauty. Judging by the way shed been bossing him around, she certainly wasnt frail. Her green eyes flashed like neon lights when she was angry, and he thought humorously that, with her red hair and green eyes, her head would make a good Christmas tree ornament. He still had no idea who she was.
Laurel placed her right foot on the bottom step of the curved, hanging stairway in the central hall. The board wiggled back and forth beneath her sturdy white shoes.
That board hasnt been nailed down, and its an accident waiting to happen. My daughter tripped on it last week.
Micahs lips twitched as he said, Ill have to borrow your hammer again. And maybe a nail or two.
Just a minute! Laurel said, suspicion dawning in her mind. Whyd you come to work without any tools? Arent you from Bowmans Contractors?
No, maam.
Because of a sudden flash of embarrassment, Laurels temper flared again, and she said, Why didnt you say so?
I tried to, maam.
Oh, stop calling me maam. My name is Laurel Cooper. Who are you anyway?
Micah Davidson.
Whats your business here?
He reached into his damp pants pocket, pulled out a leather case and handed her a business card.
Micah DavidsonPhotojournalist, she read in a subdued voice. Laurel turned away from him and covered her face with both hands. He sensed she was close to tears.
My miserable temper is always getting me into trouble, she confessed in a muffled voice. Im so humiliated. Please go away, Mr. Davidson, and save me further embarrassment. She turned toward him with downcast eyes peeking out over her hands. Although I suppose I should be polite enough to ask what brought you to Oaklawn.
I noticed a sign along the highway indicating you have apartments for rent. I have an assignment in this area and I need a place to live for a few weeks.
Still refusing to meet his eyes, she stared at the floor. Would you like to come back later when you have dry clothing? Im sure you must be miserable.
My luggage is in the car. If I can rent one of your apartments, Ill have a place to change my clothes. Do you have anything available?
I have a vacant upstairs apartment. The central part of the house was built in 1830, but a two-story ell was added around 1900. I had that wing converted into four apartments when I inherited this house two years ago. Theyre modern and quite comfortable. Come with me, and Ill let you see the rooms. Most of my renters are students at nearby Walden College and are on summer break now. I hold their rooms for them through the summer at a reduced rate.
Laurel motioned him to follow her through the rear door into a large flower garden, bordered by a white wooden fence. The thunderstorm had passed, leaving a moist, fragrant scent to the newly mowed grass. Drops of moisture decorated dozens of rosebushes, enhancing the sweet aroma of the flowering buds. An industrious robin pulled a fat worm from the damp ground and hopped across the wet grass to feed her fledgling off-spring. Micah surveyed his surroundings with pleasure. For years hed rambled around the world with no place to call home. Why did he now experience the comfortable peace of belonging?
Im on assignment to photograph and write an article on antebellum homes in Tennessee and Kentucky, Micah explained, and Oaklawn is one of the houses on my list. I hope youll let me feature your home in my article.
Laurel slanted a glance his way. His deep voice contained a pleasant hint of huskiness. That would be wonderful! This house has been in my husbands family for generations. Im often overwhelmed by its vastness, but its my daughters heritage, and Im trying to maintain it for her.
Micah discreetly glanced at Laurels hands. Seeing no wedding band, he decided she must be a widow, or she wouldnt have been the one to inherit the home.
Laurel opened the door into a two-room apartment with a small kitchenette. Its warm in here now, but theres a window air conditioner, she explained. A senior at the college moved out of the apartment when she graduated last week. Its been thoroughly cleaned since then, so its ready for occupancy if it suits you.
Micah had noted the rent rate posted on the door, and he said, Exactly what I need. Ive already finished my research on Kentuckys houses and I want to make my headquarters at one location in Tennessee while I travel to the various homes Im researching. Ill move in now, if thats all right.
Yes, thats fine with me. She turned on the air conditioner and showed him where extra towels and linens could be found. With her hand on the doorknob, Laurel looked directly into his eyes, the first time shed had the courage to do so since shed learned what a terrible mistake shed made.
I apologize for my behavior. Ive always had a quick temper, and just when I think I have it under control, I act like a shrew. Oaklawn is more than I can handle physically and financially, but my daughter, Debbie, wants to be married here in August. I thought the place should be renovated for that, but the expense has been more than Id expected. When I worry about my finances, I get irritable. Im sorry.
Realizing that she was boring this man with her personal problems, she turned away. Hed come to rent an apartment, and shed not only bawled him out for something that wasnt his fault, but now she was complaining about her financial affairs. She closed the door and left without another word.
Micah had seen the quick rush of tears that glazed Laurels emerald eyes, and his heart reacted strangely. At first hed been amused at her caustic comments, but now he felt sorry for her. While hed been researching other homes, he had met numerous widows who lived in houses that were burdensome, but homes they felt obliged to retain for their children.
While Micah carried his luggage into the apartment, he looked more closely at the large redbrick house, understanding Laurels frustration. Judging from other homes of this period, he figured the main structure contained eight rooms or more. If he was responsible for a house like Oaklawn, hed be short-tempered, too.
Debbie had been away for ten days visiting her fiancs family in Colorado, but Laurel expected her home for dinner. Conscious of the fact that shed only have her daughter for a few more months, Laurel prepared some of Debbies favorite foods for a homecoming dinner.
Laurel had just shaped a pan of rolls and set them aside to rise, when she heard Debbies voice on the back porch. Hey, Mom. Im home. Where are you?
In the kitchen.
It had been this way since Debbie had started kindergartenshe always called for her mother as soon as she entered the house. Debbie swept into the kitchen and hugged Laurel. She picked up a carrot from the tray of vegetables Laurel was preparing.
Tears formed in Laurels eyes, and she looked away to keep Debbie from seeing. She liked Debbies boyfriend, Dereck, and she wanted them to get married, but it would have been so much easier if hed gotten a job closer to Oaklawn.
Missed you, Mom, Debbie said, giving her mother a hug.
Me, too. How was your trip? Laurel asked around the knot in her throat.
Great! Derecks grandparents live on a ranch, and we spent one day with them. Id met his parents before, but it was neat to get better acquainted with them. Their home is a lot smaller than ours, and not nearly as old. Dereck and I looked around for apartments and found one we liked. Its occupied now, but will be free by September. We paid a months rent for deposit. I took some pictures to show you where Ill be living.
Debbie perched on a high stool and nibbled on the carrot. While she elaborated on the good points of the town that would be her home, Laurel smothered a sigh, already missing her daughter. Debbies narrow, candid brown eyes mirrored her excitement, and Laurel wondered how shed ever given birth to a child who was so different from herself.
Debbie had none of Laurels physical characteristics, and while she didnt look like her father, she bore a marked resemblance to her paternal grandmother, whose youthful portrait hung over the mantel in the parlor. Debbie had a heart-shaped face, with a little nose, uptilted at the end. She wore her light brown hair in a layered bob with a sideswept bang. At five feet nine inches tall, she was a half foot taller than her petite mother. Debbie was even-tempered, a trait she hadnt inherited from either of her parents, for Jasons temper had matched Laurels own. Perhaps that was one reason they couldnt get along.
Anything new happening? Debbie asked, halting Laurels musings.
I rented our vacant apartment this afternoon, so that will help pay the bills. I didnt expect to rent it until the fall classes started at the college.
When she recalled her meeting with Micah, Laurel felt her face flushing, and she was aware that Debbie watched her intently. Her embarrassment was still too keen to talk about her blunder, and Laurel was relieved when Debbie assumed the wrong reason for her mothers heated cheeks.
Mom, were spending too much money on the wedding. I can cut back on several things.
No. Youve always dreamed of a big wedding, and you should have what you want. I want the house to look nice for the wedding. Derecks parents are paying for the rehearsal dinner, and our church family is helping out with food for the reception. Weve already paid for your dress, so there shouldnt be a lot more expense. Well manage.
Whats the new renter like?
He has an interesting profession. Hes a photojournalist, and hes doing a magazine article on antebellum homes in the area. He wants to feature Oaklawn.
Awesome! Maybe its a good thing you fixed up the old place. Whats his name?
Micah Davidson.
Oh, Ive heard of him! Hes world-renowned. His work has been featured on the Discovery Channel and in the National Geographic.
A world-renowned journalist and shed treated him like an errant child! Remembering her faux pas, Laurel wondered what Micah must think of her.
Will I have time to take my bags upstairs and unpack before supper? Debbie asked.
It will be almost an hour before the rolls are ready, so take your time.
While she did a load of laundry and finished supper preparations, Laurel was aware of Micahs movements as he unloaded his car. He left for a short time and came back with two bags from the grocery store. She supposed it would have been a neighborly gesture to invite him to eat with them, although Laurel didnt normally socialize with her renters. But she hadnt had a tenant so near her own age before.
After dinner Debbie went to a party, and since a wispy rainbow indicated a fair evening, Laurel sat on the gallery. The house faced west, and the favorite part of Laurels day was to sit in a large rocking chair, listening to the birds settling for the night and inhaling the fragrance of the flower gardens, while watching the sun set beyond the distant hills. The scent of roses was especially strong tonight.
Most times when she enjoyed the beauty of her surroundings, Laurels thoughts were pleasant, but not this evening. It was always this way when she lost her temper. She couldnt remember how many times shed sat here and asked Gods forgiveness for her anger. Every time she thought shed conquered this weakness, shed stumble again. Shed lost her temper so many times, it was amazing that she had any left.
God, she silently prayed, I know Your word teaches to be slow to become angry, but I did it again today. I dont know why You dont lose patience with me, because Im disobedient so often. But, God, I dont know what the future holds, and Im afraid. Debbie will be leaving in a few months to live in another state, and Ill be rattling around this old house alone. I have so much to be thankful for, so please forgive me for feeling sorry for myself. Since Jasons parents left the property to me to maintain for Debbie, I feel obligated to stay here. I do love this old place. But sometimes it seems like an albatross around my neck.
As Debbies wedding date loomed closer, Laurel often experienced her rising fear of being alone. Her daughter had been her whole life for twenty-two years. She didnt want Debbie to suspect her feelings because it would make her sad. But she was determined that Debbie wouldnt realize what a void she was leaving. She would have to develop a new life. She needed to find a job to pay for the renovations, although she knew it would be difficult to venture out on her own after living a sheltered life.
After her husband, Jason, had disappeared in a boating accident, Laurel had dated a few times, but his parents were so opposed to it that shed given up male companionship rather than live with conflict. Since Jasons body had never been recovered, his parents wouldnt admit that he was really dead, but Laurel had never doubted his death. Jason had been an irresponsible husband, but Laurel didnt believe that he would have deliberately abandoned his family for twenty years. She had never considered remarrying when Debbie was growing up, but now that her daughter was leaving home, perhaps it was time for her to find a companion, someone to date and possibly marry down the line.
Gently, Laurel rocked back and forth, considering her options for a new lifestyle. Micah Davidson walked around the corner of the house with a check in his hand. He came briskly up the steps.
Good evening, Mrs. Cooper. Im pleased with the apartment. Heres a months rent.
Since the man didnt seem to resent her crabby behavior, his presence didnt embarrass Laurel now. She wondered momentarily how old he was. He must be in his late forties, for deep, calipered lines had formed around his generous mouth and streaks of gray frosted his dark hair.
Wont you sit down? she invited. Theres going to be a brilliant sunset soon.
Micah took the rocking chair she indicated. This is a peaceful place. Since you live a mile from the highway, you arent bothered with the sounds of traffic.
Sometimes its too peaceful, but Ive lived here over half of my life, and Ive gotten used to it. I came to Oaklawn as an eighteen-year-old bride, and I havent been out of Tennessee since my honeymoon.
These werent pleasant memories, so she said, Since youre a photojournalist, you must travel a lot and have an interesting life. Tell me about some of your experiences.
Ive spent the past year in the Amazon rain forest with a group of scientists. He grinned in her direction. Thats the reason todays deluge in the backyard didnt bother me. My clothes have been wet most of the time in recent months.
Mr. Davidson, please, Laurel said, and she feared her face had turned as red as her hair. Id like to forget that.
Sorry, he said contritely, though his face still gleamed with unspoken laughter. Ive written several articles about my experiences in the jungle, and the first one will be published in a few weeks. Im a freelance journalist, so I pick and choose what I want to do. Ive worked on most of the continents, and, yes, I have had an interesting life. But Ill reach the half-century mark on the last day of June. I cant keep up this pace forever, so its probably time to establish some roots.
Dont you have any family?
Ive never been married, but I have four siblings scattered here and there around the United States. Due to the nature of my work, I dont keep in touch with them, except for an occasional postcard.
After living such an exciting life for so many years, do you believe you can actually change and be happy with anything else? She asked this because she was troubled about how to deal with the changes coming soon in her own life.
Micah stood, leaned his tall frame against a column, and looking down at Laurel, he said, Its possible that I will be bored with any other life. He shrugged his shoulders. I really dont know. Thats one reason I took this assignment. Its leisurely compared to my usual lifestyle, so its a good test to determine if I like a slower pace.
Its usually quiet at Oaklawn, but with Debbies wedding in August, well have more excitement than we normally have. She stood, too. Would you like to look over the house now?
That would be great. Im studying the architecture as well as the history of the homes, and a preliminary viewing would be helpful.
Chapter Two
They entered the central hall, which boasted a magnificent staircase and a crystal chandelier that had been imported from France in 1835. Laurel explained that this would be the site of Debbies wedding.
We cant seat many people in here, she explained, but since I stood on this stairway during my wedding, just as my mother-in-law did when she was married, Debbie wants to continue the tradition. Well have only family members for the wedding itself, and then all of our friends and neighbors are invited for the outdoor reception.
The house had four huge rooms on each floor with great fireplaces in each room, set off by carved walnut mantels and varnished paneling. That the Coopers had once been wealthy was evident in the priceless antiques and beautiful oil paintings in each room.
When Micah commented on the wealth of her furnishings, Laurel shrugged her shoulders. There would be wealth if I sold them, but I want to keep the house as it is for Debbie and her children. This house was one of the few in the area not raided during the Civil War. Most of these furnishings have been here for a long time. Legend has it that the Coopers buried their money and that it was never found. But my father-in-law said his ancestors gave most of their wealth to the war effort. None of the Coopers I know have been prosperous.
In the parlor, Laurel pointed out the Steinway grand piano. This piano belonged to Debbies great-grandmother. Laurel ran her fingers over the keys, testing the tone.
Debbies father played, and he filled the house with music when he was at home. Its hardly been touched since his death. But Debbie wants her wedding music played on this piano, so I had it tuned.
The house was situated on a small hill, and a spreading lawn with large, gnarled trees and spacious gardens added to the mansions magnificence. Micahs camera finger was already itching to photograph the place.
Micah thanked Laurel for the tour and returned to his apartment. The rooms were cool now. He turned off the air conditioner and raised the window facing the large stream, flowing southward at the foot of the hill. He inhaled the fragrance of the landscape flowers and settled down with his laptop to map out an itinerary for his Tennessee research.
Micah kept thinking of the delicate bone structure of Laurels oval face that ended in a determined chin, and he couldnt concentrate on his work. Laurel had experienced a rough life bringing up her child as a single parent, but shed apparently developed a strong character, while fulfilling her role as a mother. He remembered how her emerald eyes easily flared with anger as bright as a flash of lightning, only to fade just as quickly to the softness of a peaceful ocean. Her auburn hair was cut close to her head like a cap. Since shed been dressed in jeans, he was well aware of her slim waist above shapely hips, and
Whoa! Micah said aloud.
He shook his head, wondering at his thoughts. It had been a long time since hed given any thought to a woman. There was no time for romance in his busy schedule, so what had prompted this sudden surge of interest in Laurel Cooper? He decided he was just as well off not to know the answer to that one, and he shifted his thoughts to the computer screen.
By the time theyd finished their tour of the house, Laurel had been completely at ease with Micah, and now she could smile at the way shed mistaken him for a carpenter. She thought about his interesting lifehow much hed seen of the world compared to her meager travels.
She had eventually become resigned to her restricted life. Since Debbie was all they had left of their son, the Coopers were determined that their granddaughter would be raised in their home. When Laurel had mentioned going to work, or moving into a home of her own, theyd raised such a fuss that it was easier to submit to their demands rather than fight them.
Shed tried to stifle her temper when dealing with them, because theyd aged considerably after Jason was lost at sea. Theyd been good to her in many ways, but she hadnt had a life of her own. Shed received some income from a small trust fund left by her grandmother, but she was dependent on them for food and housing. And she could never have given Debbie a good education without their help.
She was surprised when theyd left everything to her, although her father-in-law had asked her in his will to keep Oaklawn for Debbies inheritance, actually controlling her life after his death. Mrs. Cooper had lived only two months after her husband, and by the time Laurel had paid their funeral expenses, there wasnt much money left.
Acting on the advice of her attorney, Kevin Cooper, Laurel had used most of that money to redo the wing into apartments. Kevin, a first cousin of Jasons, had advised that the apartments would provide a steady income for her. The apartments had supplied an income, but by the time she paid the utilities and the taxes, shed hardly broken even on the apartments. Laurel still had the upkeep of a large house, a limited income and no job experience. She was annoyed that Kevin had given her such poor advice, but she hadnt complained to him. Hed been helpful in settling her father-in-laws estate, and hed assured her that she could call on him for further help when needed.
Although shed been concerned about having Debbie leave home, Laurel wondered if it wouldnt be nice to be completely independent for a change. At forty-two she could still get an education and have a career. She had been dreading the summer, but she anticipated it now. She intended to enjoy her daughters company while they planned the wedding. And since just one evening in Micahs company had uplifted her spirits, she looked forward to seeing him often during the next few weeks.
It was amazing how quickly shed been drawn to Micah. She hadnt dated much before shed met and married Jason, and since his death she hadnt been interested enough in any man to contemplate a serious relationship with him. But Micahs quiet ways, his dry humor and his gentleness had captivated her from the first.
Laurel was still downstairs when she noticed the lights go off in Micahs apartment. The clock on the stairway chimed ten, and Laurel knew it wouldnt be long until Debbie came home. She turned off all of the downstairs lights except the ones on the back porch and in the entry hall and went upstairs. She always stayed awake until she knew Debbie was safe at home, but Laurel had avoided being a controlling mother who monitored her daughters comings and goings. If Debbie wanted to talk to her about what shed done when she was out for an evening, Laurel let her take the initiative.
After her in-laws died, Laurel had moved into their room because it commanded a good view of the river valley. She had kept the cherry bed, dresser and chest that had been handed down for several generations. But to give the room a hint of her own personality, shed had a green carpet laid and dressed the high, narrow windows in ruffled curtains that matched the rugs color. As a final touch, shed replaced the dark painted walls with a colorful, floral wallpaper.
Laurel had changed into a mint-green cotton nightgown by the time she heard Debbies light gait, taking the steps, two at a time. The door cracked slightly and Debbie whispered, Asleep, Mom?
No, come in. Im about ready for bed.
We had a fun time at the pastors house, but I almost went to sleep two or three times. It was a long flight from Colorado today. Debbie smothered a yawn and drifted over to kiss Laurels cheek. Night, Mom.
We should go into Knoxville and pick up your wedding invitations tomorrow, Laurel said, but we wont have to leave early. Sleep late if you want to.
Yawning again, Debbie waved lazily, indicating shed understood and wandered out of the room and down the hall.
Laurel sat in the wicker rocker shed brought from her grandmothers home and reached for the Bible on the small table beside the bed. For the past year, Laurel had memorized a different Scripture verse each week and used it for her special meditation. Without opening the Bible, she tried to remember this weeks verse from the book of Proverbs. A cheerful heart is good medicine.
Despite her difficult life, Laurel had, for the most part, remained cheerful. She and Jason had enjoyed a happy marriage for eighteen months until Debbie was born. But Jason had wanted Laurels full attention, and he resented Debbies claims on her. Although Debbie had toddled after him all the time, he hadnt had time for her. He worked on construction jobs that took him away for months at a time. He kept in touch with his family with occasional phone calls and infrequent checks to Laurel. Jasons parents had spoiled him as a child, and he hadnt grown up to be a responsible adult. While he was working in Texas, hed met Ryan Bledsoe, and for a year prior to his death, Jason had bummed around the country with his friend.
During those difficult days, and the time after Jasons death, Laurel had relied on her faith in God to survive. He hadnt failed her. Shed prayed for the wisdom and strength to be a good mother, and God had answered her prayer. Hed given her the strength to keep her in-laws from spoiling their granddaughter as they had their son.
Debbie had never caused her any trouble. In high school, shed made good grades, played in the band and participated in summer sports. Despite the sorrow that Laurel personally felt, she had kept her sadness from Debbie. And because of her upbeat attitude, Laurel had kept her head above water when circumstances tended to overwhelm her.
Laurel opened the double windows facing the bend in the river. The cost of air-conditioning this huge house was prohibitive, so during the summer, they stored cool air at nighttime and kept the windows and doors closed all day. The thick brick walls retained the cool air that drifted inside at night.
Before she turned off the light, Laurel walked across the hall and into the dark room shed once shared with Jason. She pulled back the heavy draperies and opened the window, providing a full view of the addition where the apartments were located.
She wondered if Micah found it difficult to sleep in strange surroundings. Probably not, since hed traveled so much. What would it be like to travel as extensively as he had? Her honeymoon to Atlanta was the farthest shed been away from Oaklawn. Derecks mother had invited her to come visit them, but with her renovation debts, Laurel was short of funds. Shed have to be conservative until she took a job and paid off that loan. Perhaps then she could go to visit Debbie and Dereck in Colorado.
Laurel hummed a hymn as she darkened her room and turned on a dim light beside her bed. She stretched, savoring the texture of the smooth sheets under her back. She crossed her hands behind her neck and listened to the cacophony of insect sounds outside the window. She also heard a cow bawling on her neighbors farmprobably trying to find its calf. The owl, nesting in the attic of Oaklawns garden house, serenaded its nesting mate. Last night the plaintive call of the owl had made her sad, but tonight she enjoyed it.
Micahs coming had lifted her spirits. The rent he paid this summer would help with her finances, but she wasnt sure that was the only reason she was pleased with her new tenant. She fell asleep thinking about him.
The ringing phone woke Laurel, and at first she thought it was the alarm clock, which shed set for seven. A glance at the clock indicated it was after midnight. Her heart thumped rapidly, and her stomach churned with anxiety and apprehension. Following her in-laws custom, Laurel had developed the habit of going to bed early. Her friends knew she didnt keep late hours, so who could be calling? She sat up and quickly lifted the receiver, hoping the phone hadnt wakened Debbie. Maybe there was an emergency among the church family.
She swallowed with difficulty and hesitantly answered. Hello?
Her apprehension increased when no one answered her greeting. She knew someone was on the line because she heard uneven breathing. She almost dropped the phone when a pleasant, tenor voice started singing the words of an old song.
I looked over Jordan, and what did I see
Coming for to carry me home?
A band of angels coming after me,
Coming for to carry me home.
After a significant pause, the man said, Be ready, Laurel, were coming after you.
Laurel dropped the phone receiver on the floor, and reached out a trembling finger to sever the connection. She childishly pinched her arm to be sure she wasnt dreaming.
She ran to the bathroom, sick to her stomach, and retched. Laurel rinsed her mouth, gulped a glass of water and staggered back to bed.
She was sorry now that she hadnt stayed on the phone. She replaced the phone in its cradle and lay awake the rest of the night. Was there any way she could trace the call?
After shed squirmed in the bed for several hours, Laurel got up, dressed in an ankle-length floral skirt and a soft, white cotton blouse, and quietly went downstairs. Because of the isolation of the house, she had two dusk-to-dawn security lights, which kept the grounds and the house partially illuminated all night long. Creeping along in the muted light, Laurel entered the kitchen and closed the door so she wouldnt wake Debbie. She filled the teakettle with water and, while she waited for it to boil, placed a tea bag in her favorite mug.
Once made, Laurel wrapped her hands around the steaming cup and went to the screened back porch, where shed encountered Micah yesterday. The front gallery contained only antique rocking chairs, but after shed taken over ownership of the house, Laurel had made the back porch into a cozy, relaxing area.
Laurel sat on a padded lounge chair and sipped the tea as she contemplated what to do. If shed had caller ID, she might have determined the identity of her caller, but with her limited income, she cut corners when she could, and the latest technology wasnt high on her priority list.
When daylight dispelled the darkness, Laurel became aware of movement at her side. Remembering the threatening phone call, the cup tottered in her hand. Micah Davidson walked across the lawn. He halted when he saw her, and momentarily she wondered if hed been the caller.
Good morning, he said. Youre up early.
Earlier than usual, she answered. Couldnt you sleep?
I dont usually sleep more than six hours, and I went to bed early. I had breakfast while I waited for enough daylight to look around. You dont mind if I explore your property, do you?
Of course not. Theres a cleared path to the river if you want to go that way.
Thats where I was heading. Would you have time to walk with me? I could use a guide.
Yes, Id like a walk, she said eagerly. She wasnt in the mood for conversation, but it might be a good idea to learn more about Micah Davidson. She swung her feet off the lounge, kicked off the soft scuffs she wore and reached under the chair for a pair of walking shoes. She quickly pulled on the socks shed stored in the toes of the shoes, and in a few minutes had joined Micah.
Pointing to the left, Laurel said, The best path is through the orchard.
The lawn was neatly mowed until they reached the orchard, then weeds grew profusely in the path. Laurels long skirt was soon wet from the abundant dew on the grass.
In your research of Southern homes, youve probably heard many stories about keepsakes the Confederates buried before the invaders came. I mentioned Oaklawns story to you last night. Supposedly a Cooper ancestor buried gold and silver in this orchard, but the cache was never found.
Not even after the war?
No, Laurel said, and her eyes sparkled, temporarily replacing the pain Micah had noticed. My father-in-law said that when he was a boy, he and his brother dug from one end of that field to the other and didnt find any money. But the cultivation did give them a bumper crop of fruit for a few years.
Micah gazed appreciatively at the grainfields and the lush pastureland along the river.
Oaklawn isnt as large as it was in the eighteenth century, Laurel continued as they walked. At one time, the Coopers owned a thousand acres, but theyve had to sell parcels of land during hard times. The farm is only fifty acres now. Actually, Im glad its no more than that, because I cant even manage that much land. My neighbor, Pete Howe, rents the farmland, so I only care for the few acres around the house. I have a riding mower, so it isnt difficult work, but it does keep me busy during the summer. Especially this year, when I want everything to look nice for the wedding.
Although shed hoped walking would take her mind off the mysterious phone call, it didnt, and she lapsed into silence, trying to figure out who had called her. The singers voice didnt sound familiar at all.
Micah walked slightly behind Laurel since the path was narrow, but he was aware of her downcast eyes. When shed joined him for the walk, hed noticed at once that she wasnt the contented woman hed talked with on the gallery the night before. Had something happened to disturb her, or did it take a while for her to get going in the morning?
Id appreciate hearing anything you know about Oaklawn, Micah said. I want to feature the history of the homes, as well as the architecture.
Laurel wasnt in the mood for visiting, but taking a deep breath and staring straight ahead as they walked, she said, The Coopers moved here soon after the Revolutionary War. The place was a wilderness then. They lived in log cabins and had the usual troubles with the Native Americans that most settlers had. Eventually they prospered enough for Debbies great-great-grandfather to build the original brick house, but the Cooper wealth declined over the next century.
When they passed a knoll where the family cemetery was located, Micah commented, I suppose your husband is buried here.
No, he isnt, she said bluntly, because she didnt like to think about Jasons death.
Micah couldnt imagine why his question had annoyed her. They were both silent as they walked downhill to the northern bank of the shallow river. A wide beach of sand and gravel had formed at a sharp bend in the stream. Overhanging trees provided a secluded area. A few ramshackle lawn chairs and a wooden bench had been placed several feet from the water. Laurel walked to one of the sturdier chairs and sat down.
Do people go swimming or fishing here?
Mostly fishing, Laurel said shortly, her eyes on the river.
Did his presence annoy her, or was she troubled about something else?
After a pause, she continued, But there is a deep pool midway in the stream. The local boys go to the other side of the river, swing on the vines and drop into the pool. Its a dangerous practice. One boy was seriously hurt here last summer, but they continue to swim.
The gentle ripple of the water as it slid past them was quieting, and the peace of the place was soothing to Micah. After spending over a year in the jungle, the past three months in the Statesmostly in citieshad frustrated him. The noise of traffic had grated on his nerves. Pleased to have this sojourn in a quiet place, Micah sat on the wooden bench facing upstream. In this position, he could watch Laurel without being obvious about it.
Her present attitude didnt compare to her quick flash of anger yesterday, which had disappeared as quickly as it had come. Her eyes brooded today, and there was a petulant droop to her full lips.
Early sunlight peeked into the shaded glade, a fish flipped in the middle of the stream and birds gently began their morning songs.
Without looking at him, her eyes staring across the river, Laurel said, Mr. Davidson, I should apologize to you again. I had an unpleasant experience last night, or I wouldnt have been so short-tempered. Let me give you a reasonable answer to your question about my husbands burial. Its always been a sore subject to me, but you wouldnt have known that.
Chapter Three
Several minutes passed before Laurel continued, and to spare her embarrassment, Micah kept his eyes on the river. A small flock of ducks drifted lazily with the current. Occasionally, one of them would tilt forward into the river for a morning snack.
Twenty years ago, Jason and a friend were sailing off the Atlantic coast of South America, and their boat capsized, Laurel said quietly. Their bodies were never recovered. He was an only child, and his parents never got over his death.
He noticed that she didnt mention her own sorrow. If shed been a widow for so long, perhaps the pain was gone. But why hadnt she remarried? Judging by his own immediate attraction to her, she must have had plenty of suitors.
As though she read his thoughts, Laurel said, Debbie, who was only two at the time, was all his parents had left of Jason. As I mentioned last night, they insisted that I stay at Oaklawn and raise my child here. I was glad to stay, because I didnt have any other place to go.
Many questions rose in Micahs mind. Why was her husbands death a sore point? She spoke as if she resented him, but it wasnt any of his business. Laurel would tell him what she wanted him to know.
Although its been a labor of love to rear Debbie as a single parent, it hasnt been easy for me. Im ashamed to admit it, but Ive always resented Jason taking that trip and getting killed when he should have stayed home and looked after his family. Debbie has missed a lot by not having a father.
Micah silently thought that Debbie might have been better off without her fathers presence. Jason Cooper sounded like a selfish man.
His parents hoped almost to the end that Jason was still alive. When they at last conceded that he was dead, they didnt live long. My mother-in-law survived her husband by two months. They wanted me to preserve the house for Debbie. Im trying to do what they asked me to.
It hasnt been easy for you, Im sure.
She nodded sadly. Besides the work, its a financial burden. As soon as Debbie is married, I intend to find a job, even though I have no marketable work skills. Shell be moving to Colorado, so Ill have lots of time on my hands. Ive been looking into possible employment, but I dont have many job skills. Im considering taking a two-year business course at the college. But these decisions are on hold until Debbie is married.
She stood up quickly. And speaking of Debbie, were going into Knoxville this morning, so I have to go back to the house.
I have an appointment to look over a home in Nashville today, so I want to get started, too.
They didnt talk as they returned to the house, but Micah hummed in a monotone that grated on Laurels already distraught nerves. She tried to determine the tune, but if he had any particular song in mind, it was one she didnt know.
Thanks for walking with me. I like to be outdoors early in the morning, he said, giving her a sideways glance.
So do I. Take care while youre traveling today, she answered, and he favored her with a wide smile.
Mom, what is wrong with you? Debbie asked in the midst of a disastrous breakfast. Laurel had burned the grits, upended a cup of coffee on the tablecloth and, instead of providing jelly for their toast, picked up a jar of mustard and slid it across the table. Ive never seen you so jumpy. Are you sick?
Sitting down and gripping her hands in her lap underneath the table, Laurel tried to calm her inner trembling.
I didnt sleep much last night, she said, unable to stifle the tremor in her voice. Ill be all right as soon as Ive had a cup of coffee.
To prove her point, Laurel poured another cup. Coffee sloshed over the brim and into the saucer as she lifted the cup. Debbie cast another startled glance toward her.
Go back to bed, and forget the trip to Knoxville, Debbie said, concern in her voice. We can pick up the invitations tomorrow.
Oh, no, Laurel said, and forced a smile. I want to go today. She had to do something to keep her mind off of her nighttime caller.
Sensing Debbies gaze upon her again, Laurel knew she was staring fixedly out the window. Determined to retain some sense of normalcy, she spread butter over the grits on her plate and ate them and the egg in front of her as if she had a good appetite.
If you want to fill the dishwasher, Ill go upstairs and get ready.
Ill take care of everything, but I still think we should postpone our trip, Debbie insisted.
Laurel forced a laugh. This isnt the first time Ive been tired when Ive gotten out of bed. Lets plan to leave in an hour.
While she luxuriated in the big bathtub and lathered vigorously with her lavender-scented bath gel, Laurel thought about Micah Davidson. Although shed fleetingly wondered if Micah could have been the midnight caller, after shed heard him humming this morning, shed discounted that idea. Micah had a bass voice, and he couldnt carry a tune. The man on the phone had a melodious tenor voice. Thinking about Micah lifted Laurels spirits, and she decided she wouldnt allow last nights incident to ruin her day with Debbie.
Stepping from the tub, Laurel patted her body dry with a large towel. She applied body lotion, and for a moment her worries receded as the lotion soothed her body. Laurel habitually denied herself for others, but she did indulge herself with a fragrant bath.
After dressing in a pair of striped capris and a white knit blouse, she sat in her grandmothers rocking chair for her morning devotions. She felt close to her grandmother in this chair, since she was the one who had guided Laurels spiritual maturation. She turned to her grandmothers favorite Scripture in the book of Philippians and read softly.
I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
Her grandmother hadnt had an easy life, but shed never doubted that God had sustained her through each problem. Laurel, too, had experienced enough sorrow since her marriage to make her bitter, but shed kept a degree of contentment, in spite of the circumstances.
Fortified by the words shed read, Laurel left her room with less trepidation than shed had since that mysterious phone call. As soon as she and Debbie drove away from Oaklawn, Laurel pushed the call to the back of her mind. They had a pleasant day as they picked up the wedding invitations, registered for more of Debbies gift preferences at two stores and enjoyed a lunch in their favorite Chinese restaurant.
For the next two nights, knowing that she was taking the cowards way out, Laurel disconnected the phone when she went to bed. Although her body tensed each time she heard the phone during the day, she had no mysterious messages. Occasionally, she wondered if the call had been a dream.
Debbie worked on the evening shift at a fast-food restaurant in Knoxville. For the first three days after hed moved into the apartment, Micah also left early and didnt return until late, so Laurel was alone most of the time. On Saturday evening, as Laurel sat on the gallery, she heard a car approaching. When she saw that it was Micah, she waved to him. In a short time, she heard his steps on the graveled pathway.
Good evening, Mrs. Cooper, he said.
You might as well call me Laurel. Were not very formal in this neighborhood.
Im not formal at all, he said, So good evening, Laurel.
A dimple at the corner of her mouth deepened. Hello, Micah. Youre home early.
Yes. Ive had a busy week, so Im ready for some rest.
Come and sit down, she invited. This is a good place to relax. Its been a hectic week for me, too, and I had to take time to let my body catch up with my soul. Im preparing myself for worship tomorrow. Will you go to church with us in the morning?
Settling down in the rocking chair beside her and stretching out his long legs, Micah said, I havent been to church for so long, I wouldnt know how to act.
With a smile, Laurel said, I doubt things have changed much since you used to go to church. We have a small sanctuary and a simple order of worship. You wouldnt have a problem.
Fact is, Micah said, Im not much interested in organized churches anymore. Ive spent my adult life traveling, mostly in isolated places, where there arent any church buildings. I worship the God of Creation. I can have church anywhere.
Disturbed by his comments, Laurel said, Im sure thats true, but dont you miss the fellowship of other Christians? I need the strength and support I receive on Sunday to deal with any problems I might have during the week.
Micah seemed to deliberate a few moments before he answered. In my line of work, sometimes months pass without the opportunity to worship with a congregation. But when I see Gods handiwork in what Hes createdthe skies, the trees, the animalsits easy for me to worship.
Laurel wasnt normally argumentative about the Scriptures, but she had the feeling that Micah was missing the most important principle. Thats all well and good, she said, as long as you acknowledge the place of Jesus, Gods Son, in the creation of the world.
Micah looked puzzled, and he said, I remember something about that from my childhood when I went to Sunday School.
Laurel didnt press her opinion at that time. She, too, could see God in the universe around her. And she believed it was only a short distance from acknowledging God, Who created the world, and believing that His Son, Jesus, was the Savior of mankind. She doubted that Micah had made that connection.
Then you will go to church with Debbie and me tomorrow?
Yes, thank you. Im looking forward to meeting your daughter. With my long hours, Ive missed my chances so far.
Laurel said proudly, I know Im prejudiced, but she is a fine girl.
Micah thought if Debbie was anything like her mother, she would be worth meeting.
Hesitantly, Laurel continued, If were asking something that you dont want to do, please say so. But Debbie wants to know if youll consider photographing her wedding on August twenty-fifth. Will you still be in Tennessee then?
Im not sure, but if I agree to photograph the wedding, Ill come back for it. But you should know that, although Ive photographed a few weddings, Im not at my best when photographing people. I prefer landscapes or anything in the natural environment.
Let me show you what we have in mind before you make a commitment.
A gentle breeze blew from the river as they walked into the wide expanse of yard to the left of the house. The breeze ruffled Laurels red curls, and as she pointed out various things, Micah observed her, wondering that her red hair hadnt a trace of gray. Modern hair colors could work wonders, but he doubted there was a rinse on her hair.
Weve chosen the southern lawn for the reception, she explained. Were planning an early afternoon wedding, and the house will shade most of this area. The lawn is rather spacious, as you can see. Were expecting about a hundred guests, but its an open wedding list, so its difficult to know how many well have. Weve rented tents and tables. If we have an overflow, some of them can sit under the shade trees. The ladies of our church are cooking the dinner.
Micah sauntered around the area, looking at it with his professional eye, considering the shading and judging the position of the sun in three months.
What time is the ceremony? he asked.
The music will start at one oclock, and the processional a half hour later.
Then, Id say this is an ideal spot. The light should be good for photographs.
The formal pictures will be taken inside. We want candid shots of activities here on the lawn. Derecks father plans to make a video, but we want some professional pictures for albums.
Are they having many attendants?
Just one each, plus a flower girl and a ring bearer Derecks niece and nephew. She halted, and looked out over the river. Without any close male relatives, Ill have to give her away.
Her voice faltered a little, and Micah quickly glanced her way. Pretty difficult to do, huh? he said sympathetically.
Yes, especially since theyre moving to Colorado. The groom is an engineer, and he has a job there. Besides, Colorado is his home state.
And youll be all alone.
Laurel turned away and started walking toward the house.
Im sorry, Laurel. I shouldnt have said that. Not being a parent, I cant quite understand your fears.
You dont need to apologize. I will miss her, but Ive tried not to tie her to my apron strings. Ive learned to love Oaklawn, but in a way, its been a prison to me. Im trying to preserve the place for Debbie, never knowing if shell ever want to live here. Her future husband travels a lot with his job, but I dont want her to feel tied to Oaklawn. Im anticipating Debbies wedding as a turning point in my life, too.
He followed her up the steps to the gallery.
Ill be happy to photograph the wedding.
Thank you so much, Laurel said. Debbie will be very pleased.
Laurel felt a welcome surge of excitement. She was assured of Micahs presence the rest of the summer, and she could have shouted for joy. Trying to control her exuberance, she said, Well start for church at ten-thirty.
Micah said good-night and sauntered toward his apartment. But he turned back, and at his quiet approach, he saw that Laurel sat with her head in her hands. He scuffled his feet, and when he reached the steps of the gallery, she was sitting erect, her eyes suspiciously moist.
Will you and Debbie go with me for lunch after church?
Thats nice of you, she said. I dont know Debbies work schedule for Sunday, but she tries not to work on Sunday morning. Thanks for asking us.
Since Im new in the area, Ill leave it up to you to choose a restaurant.
Laurel nodded, but the despair in her eyes saddened him. She was disturbed about something, and he didnt think it was Debbies leaving. Micah wanted to help, but he couldnt intrude into a place Laurel didnt want him to go.
Chapter Four
Micah would never have dreamed that Sunday morning would find him searching the closet to find something suitable to wear to church. Why had he accepted Laurels invitation to go with her today, when he hadnt attended an organized worship service for years?
He hadnt thought hed need dress clothes for the summer, and most of his garments consisted of denim pants and shorts. His suits and ties were at his house in Kansas. He sorted through his garment bags and came up with a new polo shirt and a pair of trousers, both in need of pressing. Laurel had provided an ironing board and iron for her renters, and while he waited for the iron to heat, Micah shined his shoes.
He hoped his casual clothes would be acceptable at Laurels church. Not that he ever gave much thought to what people thought, but he didnt want Laurel to be ashamed of his appearance. Confused by his preoccupation with Laurel and her affairs, he wandered restlessly around the apartment.
He couldnt understand her obvious attachment to Oaklawn. Hed been on the move all of his adult life, and the only land he owned was a quarter-section of farmland in Kansas. Hed inherited the property from a maternal uncle a few years ago, and he used the farm to store the possessions he couldnt haul around with him.
He rented the land to a farmer whose farm adjoined his, and the farmers wife cleaned and aired his four-room house monthly. The farm was valuable to him as a good source of income, but he visited the place infrequently. Obviously, Laurel wasnt making much money from Oaklawn, so her attachment to the place must be sentimental.
As Micah paced, he wondered why he couldnt put down roots like other people. Was he destined to be a wanderer to the end of his days? He didnt want to settle down in Kansas, which was hot and dry in summer and cold and windy in the winter. Micah felt as strong and competent as he had when he was a teenager. He had several years before he needed to retire, so why was he thinking of settling down? Not willing to acknowledge the reason for his discontent, he decided to put these perplexing emotions out of his mind.
When he finished dressing and took a look in the full-length mirror on the closet door, Micah decided he looked acceptable. Laurel had said the church was small, and it was a hot morning, so he assumed none of the men would be wearing suits.
After he cleared the seats of the car and put all of his photographic equipment in the apartment, he tapped on Laurels back door. A lovely sight in her Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes, Laurel opened the door and greeted him. He thought she looked like a child playacting in her mothers clothes. With her diminutive stature, delicate body, and a shy smile hovering on her lips, she seemed like a little girl dressed up for her first party. She wore an ankle-length black skirt and black sandals. The scoop-necked blouse was an ivory color that blended charmingly with her pearl-like complexion.
When Laurels lashes dropped, and a telltale flush appeared on her cheeks, Micah realized hed been staring.
Good morning, Laurel, he said. Am I too early?
Not at all, she stammered, still flustered by Micahs intent appraisal. Debbie is a little late. We both overslept this morning.
She motioned to the chairs on the porch. Shall we sit and wait for her? We still have half an hour before services begin, and its only a ten-minute drive to Bethel Church.
But before they could be seated, quick steps sounded in the hallway, and Debbie stepped out on the porch. She was a pretty young woman of above average height, but she had few characteristics of her petite mother. Debbies hair was straight instead of curly. Her eyes were brown instead of green. Apparently Debbie looked like her fathers side of the family. Since Debbie was dressed in casual slacks and a knit blouse, Micah decided that his attire was suitable for their church.
Have I kept you waiting long? she asked.
Debbie, Laurel said, this is Micah Davidson. And looking at her daughter with unmistakable pride, she added, Micah, my daughter, Debbie.
Pleased to meet you, Mr. Davidson, Debbie said with genuine warmth. Ive seen your work featured on TV several times. Youre a fantastic photographer.
Thanks. I enjoy my work.
Have you ever considered writing a book about your exploits?
Im having one published in a few months, he said, with a wide smile.
Out of the corner of his eye, Micah noticed that Laurel was fidgeting from one foot to the other.
Should we go now? he asked.
Yes, Laurel said. I dont want to be late. You sit in the front seat, Debbie, youre better at giving directions than I am.
They passed Walden College on the way to worship, and Micah wondered why he was hesitant to tell Laurel hed been invited to teach there.
The sedate brick buildings, dating to the early twentieth century, looked quiet and confining. After hed been his own taskmaster for twenty-five years, could he endure working on a regular, day-by-day schedule arranged by someone else? Was he too set in his ways to ever change?
He turned his thoughts from the college to another unaccustomed experience when Debbie, who sat beside him on the front seat, directed him to the parking lot of Bethel Church. According to the sign over the door, the church had been built in 1910. When Micah followed Debbie and Laurel up the center aisle into the small sanctuary, he admired the Gothic-style architecture of the windows and the ceiling, as well as the ornately carved pews. They sat beside a stained-glass window placed in memory of the Cooper family.
The soft strains of the organ music were peaceful, but Micah momentarily longed for the soft stirring of the wind and the sounds of nature that he usually heard when he worshiped. Sitting between Debbie and Laurel, he felt confined like a bird with its wings clipped, as if his spirit could never soar again.
He probably would have bolted if hed had free access to the door, but when an usher raised all the windows in the sanctuary, he could hear birds singing. A gentle breeze wafted the strong scent of honeysuckle into the church. He breathed deeply of the fresh air and relaxed.
Micah took a quick survey of the congregation, seeing only one man, other than the minister, who had on a suit and tie.
Laurel handed Micah a hymnal when the preacher announced the first song. It was a song he didnt know, but he followed the words on the page as he listened to Debbies strong soprano blending with Laurels alto voice. Micah had been told by a high-school music teacher that he had a pleasant speaking voice, but when he sang, he croaked like a frog. Thereafter, hed never joined in group singing, but when he was out on a job alone, hed belt out the words of any song that took his fancy, with or without a tune. A croaking frog was acceptable in the great outdoors.
When the pastor asked for unspoken requests before the morning prayer, Laurel lifted her hand. The haunted expression Micah had seen in her eyes when theyd walked yesterday morning had returned. And during the prayer, he sensed her lips were moving in silent petition.
Micah had a Bible somewhere among his possessions, but he hadnt carried it on his travels, and he hadnt read it for a long time. His parents had instilled a belief in God in his heart, but even as a child hed avoided group worship. Everything he photographed, especially the different species of animals and plants hed seen in various parts of the world, had filled him with wonder and awe at the majesty of the God Who had created the world.
Bruce Jensen, the preacher, was an unpretentious, thin, middle-aged man, but he was sincere and his obvious knowledge held Micahs attention. He listened eagerly as Pastor Jensen started his sermon.
According to the preacher, Jesus and His disciples had been traveling through Samaria when theyd encountered a woman with a bad reputation. She had attempted to conceal her lifestyle by comparing the Jewish method of worship with the way the Samaritans worshiped.
Intrigued by this subject that was of importance to him, Micah listened intently when Pastor Jensen read a few verses from the Bible, giving the reference as the fourth chapter of John.
A time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is a spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.
According to these words, his method of worship was as valid as the way Laurel worshiped. But doubt arose in Micahs heart as the preacher explained the passage more fully. In summing up the conversation between Jesus and the Samaritan Woman, Pastor Jensen said that Jesus turned the subject from the place where one worships to the Person who is worshiped. He explained that God is the Lord of all, and that He can be worshiped anywhere. But the only acceptable worship involves the entire heart, mind and the truth of God as revealed in the Scripture.
To that point, the preachers message and Micahs method of worship seemed compatible. But when Pastor Jensen continued, Micah conceded that he may have missed the essence of true worship.
When people asked Jesus to show them the way to God, He had replied, I and the Father are one. He who has seen me has seen the Father. At a later time, Jesus had said, No man cometh to the Father except by me.
Pastor Jensen concluded his message by quoting another Scripture, He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. Until people accept Jesus, the Son of God, into their hearts, there can be no worship.
As the congregation rose for the benediction, Micah realized that if the preachers words were true, his methods of worship had not pleased God.
Micah had his hand wrung by most of the congregation at the end of the service, and he had many invitations to become a part of their fellowship while he was in the community. While Laurel and Debbie visited with their friends, he circled the building looking with interest at the architecture. If he accepted a position at Walden College, he might research historic churches of the South for an article or a TV feature. Bethel Church could be included.
Where are we going for lunch? he asked as he opened the car doors. Again, Laurel took the back seat, leaving the front for Debbie.
You call it, Mom. Where do you want to go?
How about that nice Sunday buffet at the restaurant on the road to Knoxville? They have a good choice of food.
Give me directions, Debbie, Micah said.
As he started the engine, she said, Oh, wait. Here comes our cousin, Kevin. He must want to meet you.
But the man approached the passenger side of the car. He opened the rear door and handed an envelope to Laurel.
I was worried Id miss you today. This letter came to my office last week. Ive intended to drop by Oaklawn and give it to you, but Ive been busy.
Laurel took the envelope and glanced at the typed address. Mrs. Jason Cooper, c/o Kevin Cooper, Attorney at Law. She hadnt had a letter addressed to Mrs. Jason Cooper for a long time. Her hands stiffened and her eyes blurred. Could this have anything to do with her mysterious phone call?
She was thankful for a moment to compose herself when Debbie said, Cousin Kevin, did you meet our tenant? Kevin Cooper, Micah Davidson, she said.
Kevin Cooper extended a hand across the front seat and gave Micah a hearty handshake. Kevin was the only man other than the minister whod been wearing a suit. He was a tall, portly man with a mane of shoulder-length gray hair and a full gray beard. His appearance reminded Micah of an antebellum Southern planter.
Going to stay long at Oaklawn? Kevin said.
Two or three months, Micah answered.
Everything going all right, Laurel? Kevin asked affably.
Yes, the wedding plans are moving along quite well, she said with an effort.
Glad to hear it, her cousin-in-law said. Ill try to stop by this week. Glad to meet you, Mr. Davidson. It relieves my mind that youll be around Oaklawn this summer. When the apartments are empty, I worry about my cousins living in such an isolated place.
Kevin closed the door and Micah drove out of the church parking lot.
Cousin Kevin is a nice guy, Debbie said. He was my daddys second cousin, and hes been very good to Mom and me after my grandparents died. If hes worried about the two of us living alone at Oaklawn, I dont know what hell think when Mom is there by herself.
Laurel remained silent.
Following Debbies instructions, Micah left the narrow county road and accessed the highway. Micah had been prepared to dislike Debbie, because hed gotten the impression that she imposed on her mother. Or at least hed gathered that Laurel carried the whole burden of family decisions. After chatting with her about college life and her upcoming marriage, he decided she wasnt a spoiled brat, but an intelligent, compassionate young lady.
Suddenly it occurred to Micah that Laurel hadnt said a word since theyd left the churchyard, and he glanced quickly over his shoulder. Her eyes were closed, her face was the color of ashes, and her hand crushed the letter Kevin Cooper had given her.
Hey, Mom, Debbie said, not looking at her mother, but indicating a turn that Micah should take. Who was your letter from?
Micah heard Laurel open and close her purse. As he made the sharp left-hand turn, he had a slight glimpse of Laurels hands. The letter wasnt in sight.
Oh, just a piece of junk mail.
Seems strange anyone would send your mail to Cousin Kevins office.
Laurel didnt answer.
Probably one of your admirers sneaking a letter to you so I wouldnt see it, Debbie teased.
If she had been disturbed by the letters contents, Laurel had regained her composure by the time they reached the restaurant. But her gaiety seemed forced, and occasionally her eyes held a resentful, frightened look. Debbie didnt seem to notice, so Micah wondered if he was imagining things. Maybe the letter had been junk mail, but he didnt think so.
Debbie was interested in Micahs work, and she plied him with questions while they ate a leisurely meal. It was easy for Laurel to remain silent and mull over this latest threat to her peace of mind. Although as Micah answered Debbies queries, Laurel sensed his speculative gaze toward her.
Whats the most interesting place youve ever photographed? Debbie asked.
Thats a hard one, Micah said. Ive been at this work a long time. Ive had assignments all over the world.
Do you speak several languages? Laurel asked in an effort to keep Debbie from knowing how near the breaking point she was.
French and Spanish reasonably well. Ive picked up a smattering of German, as well as a lot of Asian dialectsat least enough that I can find my way around in several countries.
At the dessert bar, Micah chose a large portion of apple cobbler, topped with a dollop of soft ice cream. Debbie took carrot cake, but Laurel picked up one cookie, wondering if she could eat it. The food shed already eaten seemed like a lead weight in her stomach, and she felt nauseous. She desperately needed to be alone. The waitress brought Laurel and Micah fresh cups of coffee, and Debbie had a refill of iced tea.
But you cant pick out a favorite place? Debbie persisted, while they ate their desserts.
Not on the spot like this. Im always so busy looking forward to a new assignment that I rarely think about previous ones. Ill have to go through my scrapbooks and slide files and see if I can choose a favorite. Then perhaps I can revisit the area, and make a comparison of my impressions during my original research and what they are on my second visit.
Seems like an excellent idea to me, Debbie said. She must have suddenly realized how quiet her mother had been, because Debbie covered Laurels hand with hers. Say, Mom, were leaving you out of the conversation. I always talk too much. Its your turn to ask Micah some questions.
Laurel had noticed that Debbie and Micah had reached a first-name relationship right away. Determined that Debbie wouldnt notice her distress, Laurel forced a smile and said, Youre doing enough talking for both of us. But if Micah cant think of a favorite place hes photographed, Ill settle for one of the most exotic places hes explored.
I have a large number of those to choose from, he said. Machu Picchu comes to mind. Youve heard of it?
The name was familiar, but Laurel couldnt remember what or where it was.
Some kind of an Inca site in Peru, right? Debbie replied.
Right. I went there about ten years ago. I rode a train from Cusco, Peru, to a little village at the foot of an Andean mountain where the historical site is located. I took a rickety bus along a narrow, curvy road to the top of the mountain. The driver handled that bus like he was driving a race car. After the ride up the mountain, I would have walked back down if it hadnt been for all the heavy equipment I had with me.
Sorry to show my ignorance, but you two college graduates will have to refresh my memory on what Machu Picchu is, Laurel said, wishing as she often had before that shed gone to college instead of getting married at eighteen.
Its one of the most beautiful and perplexing sights Ive ever seen, Micah said. The Inca people carved hundreds of stone structures from the granite mountaintop in the fifteenth century. It was a self-contained city invisible from the valley below. When it was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham, a Yale archaeologist, the jungle had taken over the site. Although the village is in ruins, enough of the dwellings are left to get an accurate idea of how the Incas lived and worshiped. I camped on the mountain one night and spent hours worshiping God, but after todays sermon, Im not sure I worshiped Him in spirit and in truth.
Glancing at her watch, Debbie said, I hate to break up our pleasant meal, but I have to be at work in an hour.
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Irene Brand
Тип: электронная книга
Жанр: Современные любовные романы
Язык: на английском языке
Издательство: HarperCollins
Дата публикации: 16.04.2024
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О книге: Laurel Cooper was too busy planning her only daughter′s wedding to make time for romance.But the fortysomething widow couldn′t ignore the rugged photojournalist who′d appeared on her doorstep to photograph her antebellum home-turned-boarding house. Especially not when they spent so much time together as she gave him tours of other local historic homes.Micah Davidson made himself indispensable, even covering the wedding as a favor for his lovely new landlady. Yet just as Micah was about to propose, a shocking photograph surfaced, turning Laurel′s world upside down. Could their love outlast the long-buried secrets from Laurel′s past?