A Season Of Secrets

By Kay Edwards

Wyatt has been looking for his lost love, Kelly. When she suddenly appears back in his life, can he find it in his heart to forgive her for leaving him with nothing but a note and a token of her love? Can God lead Kelly through this time of dealing with a past she can not reveal? Can God soften Wyatt's heart, as he learns to be still and wait for the secrets Kelly harbors to come into the light? Will this couple's love find redemption? As Kelly's little secrets come out, can Wyatt come to love the very daring and crazy side of Kelly, he was unaware of? Fall in love with Kelly and Wyatt in this fast pace, witty, and hysterical romance. Kelly coming to the ranch has just proved that things can get even crazier in Texas.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Kay Edwards
• Release date: Apr 5, 2016
• ISBN: 9781310176081

Kay Edwards

I am a country girl. I grew up along the Susquehanna River in central PA. I am a Christian and not ashamed of it. I have four children and an awesome (according to him) husband. I believe that Christ must be first, family second and everything else as God sees fit to lead you. I absolutely love a great love story and have written many just for fun. After introducing some friends to my writing, I have been encouraged to publish. I will find a way to always put a twist of humor in everything I write, because that is who I am. If it comes into my mind it is usually out of my mouth, which has put me in some absolutely hysterical situations. I look forward to sharing work with people and hope you all enjoy.

Book preview

A Season

Of

Secrets

(A Season of Secrets)

By: Kay Edward

Smashwords Edition

Copyright © 2016 by Kay Edwards

All Rights Reserved.

About the Author

Kay Edwards is new to the publishing scene. This is the second book in her second series. Kay grew up in the church. She loves Christ. In her books, she does her best to bring an entertaining story to life with her Savior in mind. After her Susquehanna Trilogy Kay takes us to Texas. She brings wit and charm to some very daring ladies. Her Crazy in Texas series will have you laughing and crying. Please join Kay as she revisits Misty and Dalton while she shares with you the story of Wyatt and Kelly. Prepare yourself for a whole new level of daring as Kelly’s secrets surface.

Dedications and Recognitions

I would like to dedicate this book to one of my best friends. Her body will not let her do half the things she wants to, but she hangs in there. Kelly Kiggins Lund, you inspire people daily with your worship and praise as you deal with pain.

I would also like to make a special note about a dog named Jamie. She was ours for eighteen years, and we thank God for the special place she had in our hearts. She showed us that pets really are family.

Last but not least I would like to thank my family. You have been great during this journey of discovery. Leron, Tyler, Samantha, Joseph, and Maggie thank you for giving me the space I need to create.

Prelude

Kelly’s life changed with each shot that rang out behind her. Tears streamed down her cheeks as her older brothers pulled her away from the danger. She had seen her mother die with the first shot. When the next shots were fired, Kelly knew her parents and twin sister were gone. She looked at her oldest brother who was holding one-year-old Gavin in his arms. What are we going to do? How are we going to keep him safe? The eighteen-year-old asked through her tears, as she processed the enormity of what was happening.

Luke looked down at his sister and then at his brothers Mark and Cody. We’ll figure it out later, Kelly. Right now, we need to keep moving. It won’t be long before they figure out that we have him.

Chapter One

Five Years Later

Kelly looked at the ER doors. She knew she needed stitches again. Broken bones were a bit easier to get tended to, but knife wounds always drew unwanted attention. Today though, Kelly was allowed to draw attention. She knew the ER doctor would recognize her. If she were honest, she needed him to recognize her. She felt blood drip off her fingertips as she started toward the doors. Her shoulder was sliced open this time. She whimpered softly as the doors opened and she walked inside the hospital. A short while later, Kelly was ushered into an exam room.

Dalton Nelson looked at the chart for his next patient. Looking up, Dalton made sure his nurse had called the authorities. It was Thanksgiving, and a knife wound seemed a terrible way to start the holiday season. Standing, he walked to the room. When he entered, Dalton froze. This patient he had seen before.

Kelly looked at Dr. Nelson. Relief flooded her when she saw the recognition on his face. She spoke to him. Hello.

Dalton nodded at Kelly. Are you going to take off again? He asked referring to their last meeting in Houston. He had stitched her up, and she had left without a word.

Kelly shook her head indicating that leaving was not her intent. Giving Dalton access to her wound, Kelly started talking. You know, as well as I do, my routine for that. I’ll stay and talk to the police. I want you to know that I need to go see Wyatt. I picked this ER because I knew you were here.

Dalton’s eyes went from Kelly’s sliced up shoulder to her face. He could sense a fear in her but wasn’t sure where it came from. What are you running from?

Kelly looked away before turning her gaze toward the ceiling. She felt him probing the wound as she answered him. I’m not running anymore, Dalton. I came because I’m able to see Wyatt now. How is he?

Dalton cleaned the wound thoroughly. He noticed Kelly didn’t flinch as he poured the betadine over it. He shook his head still amazed at her ability to handle pain. Did your last wound heal?

Kelly nodded and smiled. You did a great job. It didn’t even hurt when I took the stitches out.

Dalton finally had enough of what he perceived as a game. What do you want, Kelly? I know you aren’t here for the small talk. You’ve really hurt Wyatt. If this is a game, you need to just back off and let him alone. Don’t hurt him again.

Kelly looked at Dalton. She defended herself softly. This was never a game, Dalton. I’ll eventually be able to explain why I had to leave him, but right now, I need to keep my word and go back to Wyatt. I told him I would find him again, and that’s what I’m doing.

Dalton numbed the injured area on her shoulder. Again, he noticed she didn’t flinch as the needle pierced her skin. It had been evident, the first time they met, that Kelly was no stranger to feeling pain. He wondered just how much pain she could handle. Once the area was numb, he stitched her up while pondering the situation. Dalton couldn’t help but think of his brother-in-law. The man had turned down every blind date he and Misty had tried to set him up on. No matter who it was, he refused to date them. It was very clear that Kelly had made a lasting impression on Wyatt’s heart. Tying the stitches off, he spoke once more to Kelly. All done, the police will be here shortly.

Kelly nodded. Glancing up at Dalton, Kelly refused to let what she needed most from the doctor go without an answer. I know you’re off in an hour. Please, Dalton, take me with you. I know they’re waiting until you get there to start the Thanksgiving meal. I need to see Wyatt.

Dalton looked at Kelly surprised. His eyes narrowed. How do you know our plans?

Kelly didn’t know how to answer the question. She finally looked at the doctor and said softly, Pray about it, Dalton. God is not going to say no. I can’t tell you how I know certain things, but I promise you that I would never hurt you or your family.

Dalton observed the sincerity on Kelly’s face. He nodded and left the room without giving her an answer. Watching two police officers head his way, Dalton assumed they were going to Kelly’s room. He was getting ready to say something to them about what had happened in Houston, when his mouth froze. Dalton couldn’t open his mouth no matter how hard he tried. Knowing instinctively that it was God holding his tongue, he looked past the officers to Kelly. He noted that she didn’t seem surprised with his inability to speak. Turning away from the door, Dalton went to do the charting. He put orders in for an antibiotic but skipped the tetanus shot, knowing she had had one when he had seen her in Houston.

Dalton walked back into the room when the police finished talking to Kelly. Sitting down on the chair beside the bed, Dalton gave her his answer. I’ll take you with me.

Kelly looked at the man that had just taken care of her wound. For the first time in a long time, she allowed herself to feel emotion. Her voice was raw with feeling as she spoke. Thank you, Dalton. I don’t know what you think of me, but I promise, when the time comes, I will be able to eventually explain. I just can’t do that now.

Dalton looked at Kelly and was surprised to see tears in her eyes. At that moment, he realized she was not as strong as she was pretending to be. He touched her hand gently as he spoke. Wait for me in the waiting room. I’ll be out for you shortly.

She looked at him and nodded. She paused before getting off the bed. Dalton? How mad is Wyatt?

Dalton didn’t lie to the woman he had just stitched up. He answered her honestly. I would not say he’s mad at you, Kelly. He’s confused about why you left. I know you were dating, but he loved you, and then, you were gone. He’s never stopped looking for you.

Kelly nodded as she stood to put her shirt back on. Once she finished her task, Kelly walked out to the waiting area. In less than an hour, Dalton came and got her. Taking a deep breath to calm herself, she followed him quietly to the car.

Dalton opened the door for Kelly. He noted her pause before taking a final deep breath. Kelly had made up her mind.

Thank you. Kelly whispered as she got into the SUV.

Dalton nodded as he shut the door. Walking around to the driver’s side, he got in and started the engine. He had a feeling the ride home would seem extra-long this afternoon.

Kelly watched the passing landscape as Dalton pulled out of the hospital. Closing her eyes, she said a prayer before her thoughts were interrupted.

Your shirt has blood on it. Do you have anything to change into? Dalton asked trying to make small talk. In all honesty, Dalton didn’t know how to talk to the woman beside him. He had only met her once, and even then, he had not even known her name until his brother-in-law had told him. She had come into the ER in Houston pretending to be in shock, so that he could stitch her up. When he had finished treating her, she made her escape before the police could question her.

Kelly shook her head. Her voice was soft when she spoke. I left quickly. Things changed…kind of fast…

Dalton nodded. He picked up his cell and was surprised when Kelly snatched it from his hand.

Who are you calling? Kelly reacted instinctively when she saw Dalton start to use his phone.

He could see the fear in Kelly’s eyes. Responding to what he was observing, Dalton answered her gently. I was going to call my wife and tell her to bring an extra set of clothes to dinner. Kelly, what’s going on? Are you sure you’re safe now?

Kelly ignored his questions as she handed him the phone. She looked out the window to clear her head. She listened as he spoke and was relieved when he kept his answers short and uninformative. Her body started to shake as she realized she was going to be hurt. Kelly knew Wyatt would be furious. There were a lot of things she could deal with, but Wyatt hating her was not one of them. She loved him, and she had hurt him.

Dalton pulled up to the house. Looking over at Kelly, he was surprised to see her crying. Are you ready? He asked sympathetically.

Kelly glanced at the man beside her. She tried to speak but couldn’t. Instead, Kelly nodded and wiped her tears away.

Dalton got out of the vehicle and made his way to Kelly’s side. Opening the car door, he waited for her to get out before leading her to the house. Walking inside, Dalton could hear Kelly behind him. He knew that everyone was in the dining room and made his way there. When he walked in, he smiled as everyone looked at him. Looking at Wyatt, his voice became serious. There’s someone here for you, Wyatt. She needs to see you.

Wyatt looked at Dalton confused. Who’s here?

The room was now quiet. They knew something was wrong by the way Dalton was standing. They watched as he stood aside to reveal their guest.

Wyatt paled. His voice was hoarse as he spoke. Kelly?

Kelly looked at Wyatt. She had wanted him to be happy to see her. She could tell he was not quite sure what to make of her presence. When he walked toward her, she forced herself to stand still. When he grabbed her hand to pull her out of the room, she cried out in pain.

Dalton pulled Wyatt’s hand away from Kelly. Be careful, Wyatt. She’s been stabbed again.

Wyatt realized there was blood all over Kelly’s shirt. He looked at her shoulder where the hole showed the bandages. Taking her other hand, Wyatt pulled her into the living room. He didn’t want to be cruel, but a part of him couldn’t help it.

Kelly observed Wyatt pacing in front of her. He had shoved her down on the couch and didn’t seem quite ready to talk. She was going to speak, but when he put his hand up, she stopped. Kelly looked at her hands as she waited for him to talk to her. Tears stung her eyes as she realized how much he seemed to dislike her.

Wyatt finally stopped pacing and looked at Kelly. Where have you been? How could you just show up like this? His voice was shaking with the anger he was trying to control.

Kelly glanced up at the man who now seemed to be a stranger. I can’t tell you yet why I left. I may not be able to explain why for a while, but I’m able to be here now. Can’t that be enough? Will you wait a little longer for the answer?

Wyatt looked down at the woman who had shattered his heart. He knew he needed to calm down. His family was getting ready to enjoy Thanksgiving, and he didn’t want to ruin that. His voice was sharp and unbending as he spoke. We’ll pretend today, Kelly. Tomorrow I will figure out if I want you to be a part of my life.

Kelly flinched at Wyatt’s angry words. Tears stung her eyes. Looking up at him, she knew he could see her pain, but she also let him see her school her features. Kelly made sure Wyatt understood why she was pretending. I will do this for you. She whispered softly.

They walked back into the dining room, hand in hand, like nothing was wrong. Wyatt looked at his family and pasted a smile on his face. Everyone, I would like you to meet Kelly. She’s the girl that I’ve talked about in the past.

Kelly smiled at the group. Her heart was breaking, but those that watched her would never have guessed. She spoke softly. It’s nice to meet you all.

Misty got up and led Kelly to a room so that she could change her shirt. Misty glanced at the young woman curiously before leaving her alone to change.

When Kelly walked back into the dining room, she once again forced a smile. For the next four hours, she played the game Wyatt wanted her to play. She looked at him, hoping to see a glimmer of the love he had had, but saw nothing. All she saw were eyes dark with anger. Her heart continued to break with each fake smile he sent her way.

When the guests had left, Kelly was shown to the bathroom by Wyatt’s mother. She knew the woman was leery of her. She didn’t blame her. She had broken her son’s heart. Kelly thanked the older woman softly before being left alone in the bathroom.

Taking a deep breath, Kelly turned on the shower. When the water warmed, she stripped out of her clothes and stepped into the tub. Kelly let the water cascade over her. As the water fell, she let her tears fall. Kelly knew how to be silent when she cried. She had years of practice. She had endured so much in her life, but nothing could have prepared her for a broken heart, and Kelly had no doubt that she had one.

Stepping out of the shower, she donned the robe that Terry had left for her. The woman had told her she would put clothes on her bed for her to change into. Looking into the mirror, Kelly wiped all evidence of the tears from her eyes.

Opening the door, Kelly stepped out into the hallway. She stopped when she saw Wyatt. He was standing in the doorway to his room wearing only his jeans. She let herself look at him. Working the ranch had filled out his already muscular frame. His chest was always very nice to look at. She made eye contact with him not sure what he wanted. I do love you, Wyatt. She whispered softly.

Wyatt stood aside. His invitation was clear. Wyatt watched the play of emotions on Kelly’s face and knew the second his wife would join him.

Chapter Two

Terry stood outside the guest bedroom. Looking at her husband, she didn’t hide how sad she was. She didn’t even stay in the bed. We have to tell Wyatt she left again.

Chad nodded. The two walked to his room and gently knocked on the door. Chad opened the door and froze. Looking quickly down at his wife, he knew she had seen what he did. When she abruptly turned and stormed down the hallway toward the kitchen, he followed her.

Terry turned and looked at her husband as he entered the kitchen. What is he thinking disrespecting us that way? Who does that girl think she is?

Chad shook his head. His disappointment was written on his face. However, he knew they needed to remain calm. I don’t know. Wyatt knows better than to do this.

Terry was furious. She started back towards Wyatt’s room as she spoke angrily. I’m going to…

Chad stopped his wife from leaving the kitchen. His voice was firm. We’re going to wait. We can address this when they get up.

Terry’s voice was shaking with anger as she spoke. You know what happened last night. Neither one of them had a stitch of clothes on. Wyatt knows better, and I want to yell at him now. I don’t care if they are humiliated.

Chad looked down at Terry. He wanted to do his fair share of yelling too, but he was also aware that nothing would be accomplished in anger. You’re waiting. Embarrassing them isn’t going to help. We have to keep a calm head about this. Wyatt is our son.

The back door opened, and Brock walked into the kitchen. He had been out in the barn feeding the horses. Seeing his parent’s faces, he wondered what was wrong. What’s going on?

Chad answered his son honestly without giving too much away. We just have a situation. There’s nothing to worry about.

Brock nodded. Is Wyatt up yet? He was supposed to help me fix the fence.

Terry and Chad looked at each other. Chad shook his head. He isn’t up yet. I think… His voice trailed off.

Brock nodded filling in what he thought were the blanks. I guess I get it. With Kelly coming back, he’s a bit overwhelmed. He probably didn’t sleep well last night.

Terry choked on her anger. Knowing that it would be the only thing that would keep her mind off of Wyatt and Kelly, she started making breakfast. It also helped that Misty and Dalton were going to be there shortly, and she wanted something done for them. When Brock left, she turned and looked at her husband. This is not ok. How dare she come into this house and do this. I do NOT like this girl at all.

Chad agreed. He was having a bit of a problem dealing with it himself. They had taught Wyatt to be better than this. He was furious with him too. We can’t only blame her; Wyatt could have said no.

Wyatt could hear his parents talking. He looked at the wedding band on his finger. He had dug their wedding rings out of his drawer before they left his room. When Kelly had disappeared, she had told him to hold hers too, and he had. He looked at his wife. He observed her face as it paled when she heard his mom and dad talking. Her hands were shaking as she

Reviews for A Season Of Secrets

[DamilolaDignityDT · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Another thrilling book to delight in of redemptive love of God...