Teach Me to Love

By Eryn Grace

*** BASED ON CHRISTIAN MORALS--CHRISTIAN ROMANCE ***

When single mother, Shannon Lucas, comes home drunk, her good-looking single neighbor, Greg Somerset, lets her have it because of her two loud teenage children. After comparing notes, they both find out that Shannon's brother, Mac, and Greg's brother, Eric, are both in the Three Cross Faith band. Since both Greg and Shannon have musical talent, they're invited to join the band.

With the help of the entire community, Shannon learns how to deal with her faith, her family and career, and even her ex-husband who wants revenge.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Eryn Grace
• Release date: Feb 11, 2013
• ISBN: 9781938350092

Eryn Grace

Eryn Grace makes her home in Wisconsin, with her husband, three grown children, and various pets. She writes as all author names on www.SweetTaleBooks.com. See her website at www.eryngrace.com.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Shannon Lucas stumbled from her car with a beer bottle in her hand. As she glanced upward, a stray thought made her double over in laughter. A cow jumping over that moon was more than her drunken mind could handle on a Friday night in Three Cross, Texas.

The neighbor’s outdoor light went on. Where have you been? a man asked.

Shannon stared up at the man standing on the porch beside her part of the duplex. Who are you?

I’m your neighbor. Where have you been?

Out. She took a long pull on her bottle and wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. "What’s it to you, anyway?’

Your kids are loud. I’m half-tempted to call the cops with their loud music.

She staggered closer, smoothing back her hair. Well, Mr. Neighbor-without-a-name, I was out celebrating my twenty-ninth birthday.

His expression remained rather angry. Is this the first time you celebrated that birthday?

No, but I’ve lost count. She stepped up onto her porch, watching the man. He was very good-looking, with light brown wavy hair and soft brown eyes. I just can’t believe I didn’t notice you before. You’re hot.

She reached up to touch his hair, just to see if it was soft, but he grabbed her hand with a stern look on his face and lowered it to her side. You’re drunk. Were you out driving like that? You could’ve killed someone. He lowered his eyes down over her as he frowned. You’re nothing more than a typical blonde.

She lifted her index finger to make a point. Ah, but I’m a natural blonde with blue eyes. That’s different. Besides, it wouldn’t upset me that much if I died. My kids hate me, my ex-husband wants me to drop off the planet, and even my family thinks I’m a misfit.

The man dropped her hand and crossed his arms. It sounds to me like you need help.

Naaah. Now tell me what my monster children did.

Their rap music was too loud. I hate rap music.

She leaned against the siding on the porch and finished her beer. Kids. What can you do?

He clenched his jaw, looking very angry. You could stay home and take care of them. How old are they, anyway?

Didn’t you meet them yet?

He shook his head. No. They wouldn’t answer the door. Where’s their father, anyway?

She sighed, feeling the sadness in her soul. I messed up. I never should’ve had kids or gotten married—in that order, by the way.

I’m not surprised, he muttered.

Wow. He was really judgmental. But it served her right, she guessed. Anyway, their father, the idiot, is in Oregon. He grows organic things, which probably means exactly what you think it means, along with all his mistresses and girlfriends, probably. I have no proof but it’s pretty obvious.

His hands flew to his hips. Illegal drugs?

She waved him off. I don’t know or care. My parents wanted me here, convincing me when Harmonie started dating up there in Oregon without my permission.

He crossed his arms again. How old is she?

Thirteen. Eighth grade. It’s a horrible year to have to relive. Shannon tilted her bottle to her mouth again, but nothing came out. With a sigh, she stared into the empty bottle. All gone, again. That’s been happening to me all night long.

Is Harmonie the oldest?

No. Willough is 14 and a freshman, but they’re at the same school because of lack of funding or students or something. Tears clouded her eyes. My babies are almost grown up and I’m gonna be alone again. She chided herself for her southern accent to come out. If Jerome knew, he’d be upset.

As the neighbor stared, she wondered what was going on behind those soft brown eyes of his.

You think I’m a loser, she said. All I need are a few cats and my reputation will be set, huh?

Not at all. I think you’re lost. You need someone to guide you and take you to church. You said your parents wanted you here. Do they live around Three Cross?

Yeah. She pointed behind the home. They live a few blocks away, and my brother and his new wife live out on a ranch, that way. She pointed to the south and moved her head back to the wall. I’m the older sister and I’m supposed to be the one who teaches him things, but I can’t do anything right. Not even on my birthday. She turned. Good night. I’ll have a chat with Willough and Harmonie and make sure they’re beaten for not being respectful.

No! he said. Don’t beat them. I never should’ve mentioned it. Good night. He turned and went back into his house, locking the door behind him.

What a weird man.

Shannon unlocked her door and entered her half of the duplex, the side on the right as she would enter from the street. The inside of the place was a mess, but after picking up a few things, she gave up and went to bed.

After a fitful night of sleeping, a knock at the door woke Shannon. She turned over onto her stomach in her bed and pulled the pillow over her head. She felt miserable and knew she’d done something really stupid the night before. If she could just remember what it was, it might help.

Mom! Harmonie yelled from the stairs. Someone’s at the door for you.

I’m dead. Tell them to go away because I’m dead.

You’re not dead, a male voice said, closer to her bed.

As she turned to see who it was, the covers were pulled off her back and the pillow was yanked off her head.

She rolled over and stared at the intruder. Well, look here. It’s Mr. Neighbor-without-a-name, she whispered, holding her ears. Can you keep it quiet? I feel awful.

I’m sure you do, he whispered.

Good luck, Mom, Harmonie said. You know better than to have strangers in the house. She headed back down the stairs.

Willough walked into the bedroom, eating a chocolate bar. Mr. Somerset?

The man appeared to be stunned. Will? Do you live here?

He nodded toward Shannon. That’s my mom, or at least she says she’s my mom. I’m not so sure. I think I was adopted. He shoved the rest of the chocolate into his mouth and stared at Shannon. Were you out drinking?

Ugh. She felt awful.

I’m supposed to call Uncle Mac if you’re out drinking. You said you were going to church last night.

Ugh, she moaned again. She really didn’t want to deal with any of this.

Will grabbed the portable phone beside the bed. She tried to reach it first, but he walked away with it, dialing, and put it to his ear. Uncle Mac, it’s Will. Mom’s been out again. Do you want me to call Grandma and Grandpa? He nodded, staring at Shannon.

She closed her eyes, trying to decide if she wanted to vomit or not.

Tell him to come over here, Mr. Neighbor said. I want to have a talk with him.

Mr. Somerset said to come here. He nodded. Yeah. Just like Eric’s last name.

Eric? the man asked. My brother?

Will nodded, moving the phone away from his mouth. Eric’s in my uncle’s band.

The Three Cross Faith band? He stared at Shannon. She covered her eyes with her hands, wanting to die. No one should see her like this.

Her hands were moved off her face and she opened her eyes. The first things she saw were those gentle brown eyes. If only he were a nice man.

Is Uncle Mac your brother? Mr. Neighbor asked.

She nodded. Yes, the famous Mac Cooper, of Three Cross Faith. He and his new wife, Jaimee, are the darlings of the family. I’m nothing and will never amount to anything. She sat up with a sigh, moving her shoulder-length hair back from her face. I feel awful, but it was a tough night.

I remember. He pointed toward the front of the house. Your car’s parked in the front yard, blocking my driveway, in case you wanted to know. I thought I’d stop over and see if you’d move it.

Great. She lowered her head to her hands as the tears filled her eyes. My head hurts so much. Don’t ever let me drink again. The liquid fell from her lashes and onto her cheeks, but she swiped them away.

He helped her to her feet. I figured you’d feel like this. He looked downward. You slept in your clothes?

Yeah. It was too much work to change. I’m a lousy mother and a worse housekeeper, by the way, in case you didn’t notice.

Mr. Somerset, would you like breakfast? she heard Will say.

No, but I think your mom needs some coffee. Can one of you make some? He helped her out of the bedroom and headed down the stairs as Will ran in front of them.

I’m so sorry, she said, still crying. I’m usually not like this.

We’ll get some coffee and talk about this.

I need something for a hangover. I was up a lot last night vomiting.

He sighed. I’m sure that’s true.

She leaned closer. I smell bad, don’t I?

He laughed. Not that bad. I wouldn’t worry about it. His arm was still around her as they reached the bottom of the steps. After a quick turn, he led her into the living room. Where’s your aspirin? He moved away.

In the bathroom. She spun around and fell on the living room floor, hitting her head against the wall. With a touch to the top of her head, she felt the sore lump and moved her head down to the floor. I’m pathetic. Shoot me now and put me out of my misery?

He sat beside her and stroked her hair. Never. I’ve been where you are and this is going to be the worst day of your life. There’s only one way to go and that’s up. I want you to believe that, because I’m going to make sure that’s the truth.

You are? She saw him in a completely different light. Who are you?

He pointed toward the kitchen behind her. I’m your son’s math teacher—Greg Somerset. Will was probably in the kitchen. My brother’s Eric Somerset, who plays the drums in the Three Cross Faith band with your brother, Mac.

She closed her eyes. Tell me this is a nightmare?

He chuckled, but she was serious.

She opened her eyes and tried to stand up. I need to look presentable before Mac gets here. I’m going to get a shower.

No, Greg said. He needs to see you just like this. I want him to know what you’re doing with your life. He helped her to her feet, guiding her into the kitchen.

She fell into a chair and Greg left her side. Both of her children were eating cereal at the table while watching television through the doorway to the living room.

He returned a few moments later, opening a bottle of aspirin. Can you handle some aspirin?

Yeah. Thank you very much.

He put the medicine in front of her. You’re welcome. He went to the cabinets and opened them, one by one.

She needed more information. You said you’re Eric’s brother, but you don’t have much of an accent.

Neither do you, he said, still searching for a glass. He finally found one and filled it with water.

No. My ex used to make fun of it, so I learned to talk like they do in Oregon. What about you?

He put the glass in front of her beside the pills. I’ve traveled a bit, so I had to deal with people from all over. They couldn’t understand me, so I worked hard to talk without it. It makes life a bit easier for everyone. He sat across from her. So where do you work?

Shannon put her arms on the table and lowered her head to her forearms, staring down at the wood grain of the table. I got a job with my mom. I make food for the ranch hands in this area. They have a warehouse kitchen down the street a ways. I’m in charge of desserts.

Take those. You’ll feel better. He moved the glass and the aspirin closer to her, making her lift her head. Do you like to bake?

No. I hate it. She paused in thought. Wait. I take that back. I don’t mind the work, but I hate dealing with my family. However, it does pay the bills.

He seemed curious. What do you like doing?

She sucked down the aspirin and the water. I earned a degree in art education when we were in Portland. I couldn’t get a job, so I was a seamstress at a warehouse there for a while. I seem to always end up in warehouses, but I just want to paint.

I understand. I always wanted to be a basketball player, but had to get a real job, too.

The thought ticked her off. You’re making fun of me.

His face went solemn. Never. You just need to be given some help and support and you’ll be fine.

That was strange. You don’t feel sorry for me?

Not at all. A knock at the door had Greg out of his seat. I bet that’s your brother.

She hopped to her feet and ran to the downstairs bathroom, beside the living room. Tell him I’m not here.

Greg laughed as she shut and locked the door, but she was serious. She didn’t need to be judged by her holier-than-thou psycho younger brother. She hated psychology majors.

Where is she? Shannon heard. It was Mac.

Shannon sat down on the closed toilet seat. At least he didn’t bring their parents.

Come out, Mac said as he knocked. I promise not to be upset. I just want to talk to you.

No.

It was quiet for a moment and then someone rattled the doorknob. She had to think fast. How could she hold the door against her brother if the lock didn’t hold? He was big and strong, and with Greg’s help, there was no way she could hold the door against them.

The door opened and she lowered her head to her hands. She felt awful, and with these two men staring at her—which she was sure they were doing—it was even worse.

Well? Mac said. What are you doing?

I’m in the bathroom. I want a shower.

Not yet.

Both men lifted her to her feet and dragged her to the kitchen.

Shannon fell into a seat at the kitchen table, ready to vomit. Once her head hit the table, she felt a hand on her back.

I’m here, Mac said. Tell me what happened this time.

She looked up at his angry face, tears filling her eyes. Don’t tell Mom and Dad, please? It’ll kill them.

I know. He sat down beside her. What happened this time?

Jerome wants the kids back. He and I agreed to bring them here when Harmonie was doing things she shouldn’t have been doing—

Harmonie ran into the kitchen. I didn’t do anything. Just because I kissed a guy and let him get to second base doesn’t mean I’m evil.

Mac turned toward her. You’re 13. That’s so wrong in so many ways. I’m glad you’re in Three Cross. I can guarantee that’ll never happen here.

She frowned and her entire face saddened. Party pooper!

She ran out of the room and Mac turned toward Greg. That went well.

I see that.

A door slammed upstairs, and Shannon knew it was Harmonie. She was difficult at best.

Greg shook Mac’s hand. I’m Greg Somerset, Eric’s brother. I live next door, where her car is blocking my driveway. He pointed at Shannon.

Shannon grabbed her keys off the table, holding out one key in particular. Go move it. I don’t mind.

Mac took the keys. I’ll do it. Your neighbor doesn’t need to be bothered. He addressed Greg. I’m so sorry you’re involved in this. My wife, Jaimee, and I should’ve seen this comin’. They’ve been here since our wedding, at the beginning of last month.

We won’t be staying, Shannon said. Jerome decided he wants the kids back. He’s demanding they come back to Oregon so he can have them help harvest his crop, whatever that means. She looked around her brother and toward the front door. Where’s Jaimee?

She’s not feeling well this morning.

That was odd. Is she sick?

He rolled his eyes. Yeah, but it just started this morning, so don’t think anything about it. She’s not pregnant.

But you’ve been married a month, she said. It’s possible, you know.

Doubtful she’d be sick yet. He grinned. But I’m not here about her. I’m here about you. Why would you go drinking again?

I was celebrating my 29th birthday.

But you turned twenty-nine a few years ago, and your birthday is at the beginning of August. This is September.

She pushed back her hair. Yeah, I was waiting until now to celebrate. It sounded good to me at the time.

He watched Greg as he stood. I’ll move her car so you’re not inconvenienced. I’m really sorry about this.

It’s okay. She needs help.

Mac sighed, staring at Shannon. Yeah, she does. I have a master’s degree in psychology and now my wife wants me to finish my Ph.D. I was oblivious to this problem, though. I have a feeling I’d better put off my studies until this problem’s in check.

I can help, Greg said.

Mac thought for a moment. Maybe you can help. Come outside with me.

Greg stood up and the two men walked out the door. Shannon let her head fall back onto the table, the tears and sobs uncontrollable.

Mom.

She looked up to see Will standing beside her. Yeah?

His hands flew to his hips. How can you talk to my math teacher? Do you know what this means for me at school? It’s tough enough that I’m the new kid and I’m not from around here, but this is murder.

She sat up, the tears still on her cheeks. "I’m so sorry, sweetie, but he lives next door. I’m a lousy mother and maybe you should go back to your dad’s house."

No. I hate it there, and you know it. He has more than one woman at his house and they’re always wearing sleazy clothes or almost naked. It’s not right, Mom. As messed up as this place is, it’s better than with Dad. He seemed more than frustrated. Why did you ever marry him in the first place?

I don’t know. She wished she didn’t have to lie to him. But without him, you never would’ve been born, so I don’t regret it one bit.

I do. I’d rather never been born. He ran out of the room and up the stairs.

Shannon couldn’t be lower than she was at that moment, but Greg was wrong. It could get worse—a lot worse.

Chapter 2

Shannon walked out of the kitchen and up the stairs, closing the bedroom door behind her. After stripping out of her clothes, she headed into the bathroom of the master bedroom and turned on the water. She waited for it to get hot, got into the water, shaved her legs, and soaped herself up. If she could just get rid of the headache threatening to burst her head into a million pieces, she’d feel a lot better. The aspirin didn’t seem to be working.

Once she turned off the water, she grabbed a towel and dried herself, pulled on some clothes, and brushed her hair and teeth.

As soon as she walked out of the bathroom, she saw both men sitting on her bed, talking quietly.

But you don’t have to get involved, Mac said. We can take them all to our place and keep an eye on her.

You’re newlyweds. That’s not fair to you and your wife. Greg shook his head. I can handle this. She just needs the voice of reason and a few prayers.

Mac sighed. I agree with the prayers, but I don’t think she’ll listen to reason.

I’m out of the shower if y’all want to use it now, she said, deadpanning.

Both men turned toward her and stared. Do you feel better? Greg asked.

Yeah. You can both go home now. Even though it’s Saturday, I have to be at work at 11.

I don’t think you should be there, Mac said. You don’t look that great. Mom will figure it out and fire you.

I’m fine. She walked out of the room, tossing back her hair. Kids, I need you to clean this place while I’m gone.

Nope. Will passed her in the hallway. If you don’t do it, why should I?

Because your mother said to do it. Mac walked out of the bedroom. Get working and I’m serious.

You don’t have to deal with them, Shannon said to him. I can do it.

He shot her a dirty look. Yeah, like they really listen to you. No, they’re gonna clean this house, then I want to take them to Austin’s house and make them work.

I don’t want to work, Will said. I have…uh…homework. He glanced toward Greg and nodded. Math homework for Mr. Somerset’s class.

You do? Greg stood up and looked down at Will’s face. I didn’t assign anything. I don’t assign things for weekends.

Wait just a minute. Mac pointed toward Greg. You’re his teacher?

Greg nodded. I didn’t know it until this morning, when I saw him here. Shannon called him Willough last night, and I didn’t put two and two together.

Wait, Mac said. You’re Eric’s brother who teaches high school math?

Yeah. Our other brothers are in Kansas and Oklahoma.

I remember Eric saying that before we were married, now that you mention it. Welcome to the Three Cross area. I used to teach and know how tough it can be. He shook Greg’s hand with a grin and turned toward Will. As for you, nice try, but you’re not lyin’. I want you to clean the downstairs and I’ll have Harmonie clean the upstairs. Then you’re both comin’ with me. You’re not stayin’ here today.

You don’t let us have any fun.

You’re right about that. Mac took Will’s arm and led him toward the stairs.

I can handle my own kids. Shannon felt as if the word ‘loser’ was written on her forehead.

May I take Shannon out of here? Greg asked Mac. This might not go well, if you know what I mean.

I think that’s a great idea. There’s a diner near here, and you know what to do. Mac pulled his wallet out of his pocket. Here’s some cash.

No, I’m fine, Greg said. I’ll handle this.

Mac patted Greg on the back. Thanks. I owe you a few for this.

I want to talk to you after I get back. Where will you be?

Austin Cole’s house. Just take the main street south, and it’s the third ranch on the left, with the big ‘Cole’ sign out in front. I work there as a ranch hand, because we just bought the ranch beside it, to the south. Even though it’s Saturday, we still have to work. He shot a dirty look at Will.

Greg seemed to agree, from the smile starting on his lips. I’ll be over after she goes to work.

Excuse me, Shannon said. I’m right here and you two decide to take over my life, right in front of me?

Yep, Mac said. You’re not doin’ it, so we’re taking charge. Get used to it, because if you complain, I’m taking it right to Mom and Dad.

Her hands flew to her hips. That’s blackmail.

He nodded. Yep, and I’m good at it. You know it. He walked down the stairs, with his hand on Will’s back. You’re gonna learn to clean this place up. It’s ridiculous that you’re this age and won’t clean up.

Harmonie. Shannon approached her bedroom door and knocked. Harmonie. Get out here.

No. I’m in a social coma in this town and I refuse to come out of here unless I’m allowed to go back to Portland.

Greg approached Shannon. Can I talk to her?

She stepped back. Be my guest, but good luck. She’s in a weird stage right now.

I know the stage well. I teach that stage, remember?

She’s a little younger than high school, even though they’re in the same building.

Maybe, but that stage lasts for a few years. He knocked on the door. Harmonie, would you come out here to talk to me?

She grunted. I don’t even know you. I’m not supposed to talk to strangers.

I’m your neighbor. I’m not a stranger, now.

Yes, you are, she sang. I’m listening to my music. I can’t hear you. She turned up the volume.

Greg clenched his jaw. I hate rap music, he said to Shannon. If these were my kids… He stopped talking. I’m sorry. I’m overstepping my bounds.

I agree with you. I hate rap music, too. Their father bought them those songs, not me. She kicked the door. Open this door or I’m calling the cops!

The door popped open suddenly, and Shannon walked past her daughter. She pulled the plug on the CD player and held it in her hand as she watched the monster on the bed who looked more than surprised. No more! Shannon said. That’s it. Get out here and clean the house. Now!

You’re not my boss. Dad told me that.

Yes, she is, Greg said with a smile. She’s in charge here, and you have to listen or she can call someone who will make you do what she says. You’re being defiant and it’s time to grow up and be responsible.

Harmonie’s hands flew to her hips. Who do you think you are?

He leaned closer. I’m someone you don’t want to mess with. Now get to work and respect your mother and uncle. You won’t get anywhere in life being lazy.

She stared at him with her eyes narrowed and her eyebrows lowered. Finally crossing her arms, she stood up and pushed past Shannon with a huff, heading down the stairs, with Shannon and Greg right behind her.

Mac was walking up the stairs, so he turned Harmonie around and guided her in front of him, reaching the top of the stairs, right outside Shannon’s room. No way. You’re not leaving here. You get the upstairs, and I want it spotless.

She thrust her nose into the air. You’re not my father.

No, but I’m an authority. You need to listen to authority figures.

Dad doesn’t. He listens to no one, not even the cops when they come to visit.

All three adults stared at her in silence.

When did the cops come to visit him? Shannon asked.

Forget I said that. She walked off, flipping her long light brown hair off her shoulders.

Wait just a minute, Mac said. He walked toward her and put his hand on her shoulder. I won’t forget you said that. What happened?

She shook her head. I’m not supposed to tell.

What happened? Shannon asked.

Well, Dad had a few women at his place, and the police showed up, asking how many of them were prostitutes. When they came inside, Dad had to hide his stash—

Stash? Greg asked.

She rolled her eyes as if they should know what she was saying. You know, ‘medicines.’ She used air-quotes, meaning they weren’t exactly medicines.

I can only imagine what that is, Shannon muttered. I’m sure it’s not legal, either.

Mac sighed, appearing to be frustrated. Harmonie, have you or Will ever touched his stash or ever partied with him?

No way, she said. He said the law says you have to be 18 to do that stuff. He said he’ll let Will do it in four years. But we can smell it and it’s pretty awful when he smokes it.

Mac looked over at Shannon. You were right. Time to take away visitation.

I’ll call my lawyer and make an appointment. Just add it to her long list of things she had to do.

Mac turned toward Greg. She needs a lot of help. Can you really handle this?

Greg nodded. Been there, done it before. He took Shannon’s hand. We’re going out to talk about this.

Shannon let go of his hand. I’m fine, really.

Greg shook his head. No, you’re not. Take the help. He leaned closer. You don’t have to hear the kids whine if you leave.

She looked over at Harmonie, who had her arms crossed. Yeah. You’re right. Thanks, Mac. Make them work hard at the ranch. I owe you for this.

Mac smiled. Don’t worry, they’ll work. Come over to my place when you’re done workin’ for Mom, and we’ll fix y’all some dinner. He turned toward Greg. You too. Around six. Jaimee just has allergies and it’s in her head. She’s not contagious, we don’t think.

Thanks. I’ll be there. Greg put his hand on Shannon’s upper back, guiding her down the stairs. We’re going out, but I need to know how close your work is to here.

She grabbed her purse and cell phone, which were both lying on the table at the bottom of the steps. Just down the road. We’re across the street from Austin’s place, pretty much, just north of Austin’s brother’s ranch. If you see that ranch with the name ‘Dallas Cole’ on the mailbox, you’ve gone too far. Austin’s place is just north of Mac’s place.

Sounds good.

Shannon moved a few steps away from him as soon as they headed out the door. You don’t really have to do this.

I want to. He checked his watch. It’s only 7:30, so we have time to go eat something. I want to talk to you about your kids.

Great. Someone else who wants to tell me how to parent.

It’s not what you think. He ushered her to his car, helping her into the front passenger’s seat. She watched him walk around the front, realizing her assessment from the night before was correct. He was handsome, but she was sure he thought terrible things about her already. He was definitely off-limits, not only because of how they met, but because he was her son’s math teacher. She couldn’t be so unlucky.

Chapter 3

Greg got into the driver’s seat and angled his body toward her. What good places are around here to eat?

Eat? Ummm…I don’t really know. I don’t eat out.

You don’t? What about last night?

She was more than embarrassed. I bought a few beers in Midland and drank them while I drove here. If losers drink alone, I’m the biggest loser there is.

He put the key in the ignition and turned on the car with a grin. You’re beating yourself up already. You must be feeling better.

No. She looked out the side window as he backed out and