Faith in the Heart: Rock Creek, #5

By Sarah Harris

In book five of the Rock Creek series, Seth Davis is dealing with hurt from his past and tries to numb the pain with a wild lifestyle. Shannon Tucker is a college student wondering what plans God has for her life. Will Seth and Shannon have the faith it will take to face the challenges of life and even soar above them?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sarah Harris
• Release date: Sep 5, 2016
• ISBN: 9781536518306

Sarah Harris

Sarah L. Harris is an Assistant Professor of Engineering at Harvey Mudd College. She received her Ph.D. and M.S. in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University. Before attending Stanford, she received a B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Brigham Young University. Sarah has also worked with Hewlett-Packard, the San Diego Supercomputer Center, Nvidia, and Microsoft Research in Beijing. Sarah loves teaching, exploring and developing new technologies, traveling, wind surfing, rock climbing, and playing the guitar. Her recent exploits include researching sketching interfaces for digital circuit design, acting as a science correspondent for a National Public Radio affiliate, and learning how to kite surf. She speaks four languages and looks forward to learning more in the near future.

Book preview

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 24

Yes. Kade follows me home; then, I begin writing the book about Kade and Mandy.  Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 1

It is early April. I am a student and peer tutor at Rock Creek Community College. It's an awesome school and place to work. I am in the parking lot of the Academic Readiness Center, or ARC as it is often called, after work. I am planning to visit my friend Jessica Walker this evening. She gave birth to twins a week ago. I miss working with Jessica. I accepted Christ as my Savior the day she and Brent got married. I still can't believe they took time before the reception to talk to me. They are real friends. Brent is really cute and loves Jessica so much. Jessica is blessed to have Brent in her life. I pray God will bring someone into my life and that we will have a love story.

It's after three. For some reason, my car won't start. Great. I don't know much about cars. My dad works long hours, so I can't text or call him, and my mom is in Amarillo. I have friends who work here, but they are teaching right now. What am I going to do? Suddenly, someone speeds through the parking lot in what looks like a brand-new black Mustang. You would think the person would take care of a new vehicle. The car stops near me. As fast as this person was driving, I'm glad he or she did not hit me.

Do you need some help? the guy asks when he gets out of the car. He's cute, but can I trust him? I'm the only one in the parking lot.

Yes. My car won't start.

Is the battery dead?

I have no idea. I don't know much about cars.

That figures.

What's that supposed to mean?

Most women don't know much about cars.

Yeah, my dad did not teach me anything about cars not that I would have paid attention anyway.

I see. Well, since you are a pretty girl, I'll see what I can do.

Thank you. I appreciate it.

Well, sweetheart, it looks like you have a dead battery, the guy says a short time later. I have some jumper cables. The charge will help temporarily. Do you have someone who can replace the battery for you?

No. My dad works long hours at the oil refinery here in town. I have friends who work here, but they don't get off until five. I don't want to sit here that long.

You're in a world of hurt, aren't you? Well, since I'm being nice today, you can follow me to an auto-parts store then to my house, and I'll replace the battery for you. How about that?

You would do that for me?

Yeah.

Thank you. Where do you live?

My brother and I rent a house here in Rock Creek. I can replace the battery in our garage.

Okay. I hope you won't change your mind about helping me, but may I say something?

Yeah.

Do you know how fast you drove through the parking lot?

No. Do you?

No. I have friends who are blind, and you might not have seen them. Two of my friends have guide dogs, but I don't know if their dogs could alert them in time.

You're probably right. I'm sorry. I always drive fast.

I see. I was just concerned:

Yeah. I'll try to drive more carefully around here. I don't want to lose my job.

What?

I work in the Technology Department.

I’ve never seen you on campus.

I’m a new employee. I work with Jason Cantrell.

I know him. We attend the same church.

Well, you probably attend the same church as my brother.

Who is your brother?

Creed Davis.

We met a few weeks ago, but I have never seen you at church.

That’s because I don’t go to church.

Oh.

That’s all you’re going to say?

Yes. What else should I say?

Oh, let’s see....Why don’t you attend church and try to act like your brother? How’s that for starters?

You probably don’t act like him because you are different.

Well, thank you.

So, I guess you aren’t a Christian?

No. That’s too bad. I won’t date a nonbeliever. I guess you are?

Yes. I became a Christian almost a year ago.

Hmm. Has your life changed for the better?

Yes.

Well, are you ready to go?

Yes. What’s your name?

Seth Davis. And yours?

Shannon Tucker.

Well, Miss Tucker, let’s go.

Um, don’t you want to shake hands?

Later. I guess I am correct to assume you are a Miss since I don’t see a wedding ring.

I’m not married or dating anyone.

Good. I’m not either. How old are you?

Nineteen. And you?

Twenty-six. If you want to change your battery before it gets dark, we better go.

Oh, yeah. Sorry.

That’s okay. We can talk later. I like that idea. It would be awesome if Seth were a Christian. He seems nice even though he has a hard edge. I bet he has a kind heart beneath that rough exterior, and he is really cute.

I bought a car battery and am in Seth and Creed’s garage. I’m glad Seth was with me when I bought the battery. I would not have known what to ask for at the auto-parts store. Wow, I am incompetent when it comes to cars.

Would you like anything to drink before I start? There’s some iced tea.

Tea would be great. Thank you.

What do you like in it?

Nothing.

Okay. Seth returns with the tea and hands it to me. Our hands brush briefly, and it’s like an electric current in that brief touch. Wow. I better be careful.

Are you also a student?

I just work there. College was not for me.

Oh. Then, how did you get your job? Don’t you need a degree to do that kind of work?

I’m good at what I do. That’s why I was hired. I’ve done other work over the years but have always been good with computers. Are you a student?

Yes. I am also a peer tutor at the ARC.

What’s your major?

I don’t have one, so I’m just taking the basics.

So, you spend all that money for a degree you might never use?

I don’t see it that way. A good education is a way to get ahead in life.

You think so, huh?

Yes. Were you a good student growing up?

Yeah. I could have gone to college like Creed but decided not to. Do I regret it? No.

What does Creed do for a living?

He works at a bank of all places. No thank you. That would not be me. I never wear a suit.

How much older is he than you?

Two years. Do you have any siblings?

No.

That’s good. Then, you won’t be compared to anyone.

If you don’t get along, why do you live together?

It’s less expensive. Creed has his life, and I have mine.

Whose motorcycle is that?

Mine.

Ah. You drive a fast car and a motorcycle.

Yes.

What else do you enjoy doing for fun?

Some of the things I enjoy would not interest you, so we’ll leave it at that.

Oh? Like what?

My wild lifestyle.

Do you really have one, or do you just want people to think you do?

Oh, trust me, sweetheart, I have one. I often drink, which is often my evening and weekend fun.

That doesn’t sound like fun to me.

It is at the time.

I hope you don’t drink and drive.

I have.

Do you use drugs?

No, but I did when I was younger.

How did you quit? Rehab?

No. I just quit, which was not easy.

So, you could quit drinking.

Yeah, but why should I?

Because one day, it will take its toll. Do you smoke?

Yeah, but I won’t do any of those things around you.

Okay. Do you have tattoos?

You didn’t notice?

No.

Um, are you sure you aren’t blind?

I wasn’t paying attention.

Hmm. What else do you not pay attention to?

What?

Yeah. First, you tell me you would not have paid attention if your dad had shown you how to fix a car, and now, you tell me you didn’t notice my tattoos. So I ask again, what else do you not pay attention to?

I don’t know.

You better know. Always pay attention to your surroundings, baby, or you might regret it.

Okay. I’ll try.

Didn’t your mama and daddy teach you certain things?

Do you mean about guys?

Yes.

Yes. They did.

You didn’t have a cell phone with you this afternoon, did you?

Yes. It’s in my purse.

You didn’t know me. You still don’t, and yet, here you are with me.

I somehow knew I could trust you.

You can’t always go by that. Haven’t you dated someone only to regret it later?

Yes. I regret the guy I dated my first semester at the college.

Is he still a student?

Yes. Unfortunately.

Ah. Now, do you see what I mean?

Yes.

What’s his name?

Jared.

Oh. Come on. I know he has a last name.

Sanders.

Thank you. Does he bother you now?

No, but I don’t like the way he sometimes looks at me on campus.

Okay. Text me a picture of him if you still have one.

What?

Yeah. Just do it.

I don’t have a picture of him anymore, but he’s on Facebook.

Are you on Facebook?

No. Are you?

No. It’s a waste of time. Well, I’m done. The battery just needs to charge. Come on.

What? Where are we going?

Inside. You are going to show me what Jared looks like.

Um, I thought you said you aren’t on Facebook.

I told you I’m good with computers.

Oh.

Come on.

Okay.

Seth and I are soon looking at a computer screen.

That’s him.

He’s a punk kid. I laugh.

Yeah.

How long did y’all date?

Too long. Three months. Looking back, I don’t know why I dated him.

Hmm. Are you in any classes with him this semester?

One, and I try to avoid him.

How’s that working out for you?

Well, the semester is almost over.

You didn’t answer my question.

Okay. I guess. He rarely comes in the ARC and doesn’t talk to me in class for which I’m grateful.

Is the picture of his car current?

Yes.

Okay. Text me your schedule.

I can’t.

Why?

I don’t have your cell-phone number.

Give me your phone. I do. Why don’t you use the touch ID feature?

I never set it up.

Well, you have time now. Set it up.

Um, don't you want to add your number to my contacts?

I just did.

That fast?

Yeah.

Wow. It takes me forever.

I also added your number to my contacts. Come on. Set up the touch ID.

You know, with your skills, you could work for a government agency.

Yeah. Right. 

I'm serious.

I don’t have a degree, remember?

Oh, yeah. I set up the touch ID, and it's actually easier than I thought it would be.

What do you want for supper?

I don't know.

Don't tell me you are one of those chicks who skips meals.

I usually don't.

Good. So, what do you want?

I can't go anywhere.

I can drive.

Wow. You would take me for a ride in your Mustang?

Yeah. I sure don't want to cook.

Oh, so you have an ulterior motive.

Yeah. I'm not a nice guy.

You just think you aren't.

You still haven't told me where you want to eat.

How about Dairy Queen?

I assume you mean the one in Heartland?

Yes. If we go to Heartland, I'll get to ride in your sweet car longer.

Oh, is that how it works?

Yes.

Okay. Come on.

We never shook hands. We exchanged cell-phone numbers but haven't done the most basic thing you do when you meet someone.

Yeah. Seth holds out his hand, and I shake it. However, I almost pull my hand back because of the electric current that seems to be between us. To my surprise, we are still holding hands when we walk outside. Seth lets go of my hand long enough to lock the door then takes my hand again. Darlin', I somehow knew what would happen when I held your hand.

Oh? What?

Please don’t tell me there's something else you don't notice.

I do.

Yeah. I knew if I held your hand I would not want to let go. I have to though.

Why?

Because I'll break your heart.

How do you know?

I just do. Text me your schedule when we're in the car.

My work or class schedule?

Both.

Okay.

The ride to Dairy Queen in Seth's Mustang is so much fun.

What kinds of music do you like? Seth asks.

I like just about everything except rap. My favorite kinds of music are Country and Contemporary Christian. What do you like?

I grew up listening to Country like everyone else around here. I also like Metal.

Do you play an instrument?

No.

I have to ask. Where did you get calluses on your hands?

Well, sweetheart, not all computer geeks have soft hands. I laugh.

Okay.

Anything else?

I'll let you know.

I'm sure you will. What would you be doing tonight if you weren’t riding around town with me?

I was planning to visit my friend Jessica. She had twins last week.

And you think she wants company?

Well, I don't know.

So, you were just going to drop by unannounced?

Well, yeah. We are friends. We met when she worked at the ARC.

Hmm. What are the twins' names?

Kade and Kaylee.

I think your friend might be busy for a while, so you might want to call before you go see her.

Yeah. I guess her husband Brent would tell me if she couldn't have company.

I've heard of Brent.

Oh?

Yeah. He almost fought with Creed. I would have liked to have seen that.

Brent is tough and really loves Jessica. It's awesome seeing them together.

Is that what you want in someone, Shannon?

What?

Someone to protect you.

Yes. At times.

Well, I can do that.

We aren't dating. I can't date you.

Yeah. So? I can still protect you from Jared.

How?

I just will.

Don't do anything extreme to lose your job.

I don't have to while I'm at work.

Oh. Well, I didn't mean at any other time either.

You leave that to me, okay? Jared won't bother you.

What if he does?

Then, he'll deal with me.

I hope it won't come to that.

Yeah. I do too. You're a pretty girl.

Thank you. You look good too. Seth doesn't say anything. How tall are you?

6’3. And you?"

5’2. Wow, we are the same height difference as Jessica and Brent."

So?

I just think it's interesting.

Okay.

Do you have a family member who is American Indian?

Yes. My dad. Why?

Your dark hair and eyes. You look kind of like Kade and Kade Blackwater.

I'm part Cherokee.

Oh. Okay. Do your parents live around here?

They used to but moved to Oklahoma City two years ago, which is where they grew up.

And you stayed here?

Yeah. I like it here for the most part. Creed was the one who lived in Houston for several years.

Oh.

Well, do you want to sit here, or do you want to eat?

We can eat.

Okay. Don't even think about paying for yours.

You replaced my car battery. May I pay for yours?

No.

Okay.

Do you eat here often?

No, which is probably why it seemed like a good idea tonight.

Do you want anything for dessert? Seth asks after we eat.

Yeah. An Oreo blizzard.

Hey, that sounds good. I'll be right back.

Okay. Thanks. Did you play sports growing up? I ask when Seth returns with the blizzards.

Yeah. Basketball.

Were you a good athlete?

I guess. I only played in middle school. I hung out with a different crowd in high school, and my interests changed.

Oh. Is that when you started using drugs?

Yeah.

You did that in high school?

Yeah.

When did you quit?

Three years ago, and before you ask, someone I knew died of an overdose, so I knew it was time to quit. I almost say I'm sorry about the loss, but I don't think that will go over well.

Were you close friends?

Are you serious?

Yes.

No offense, sweetheart, but how naive are you? Those people are never friends.

Oh. Do you have any friends now?

No.

Would you like one?

I don't know.

Ah, come on. I'm having fun with you.

You don't need a friend like me.

How do you know?

I just do, and it's the same reason we can't date.

Oh. So, tonight was just a one-time thing?

I don't know. Time will tell.

Okay. At least you didn't say no.

Yeah. Are you ready to go?

Yes.

That was not what you were going to say, was it?

No.

I must admit I've had fun too. I'll see you on campus, and maybe we can have lunch together or something sometime.

Okay.

I can still protect you even though I can't do anything else right now.

Okay. Can we text or FaceTime?

Yeah, but I'll contact you.

Okay.

Come on. This might be the last time I get to hold your hand for a while.

Yeah. Why do I suddenly feel sad?

We are outside and in Seth's car too soon.

Shannon, believe me when I say I would like to see you. However, I know we can't, and I won't ask you to compromise because it wouldn't work.

I know. We drive to Seth's house in silence. My battery has enough charge, so I drive home. Lord, I pray You will use me or someone to reach Seth. I'm not just saying that because I like him. He needs You in his life.

Chapter 2

It's Saturday, and I have just arrived at Brent and Jessica's. Hopefully, they won't mind I've come unannounced. I know Jessica is busy, but I would like to talk to her if I get the opportunity. Brent answers the door.

Hi, Shannon.

Hi. I hope it's okay I just came by. I probably should have called first.

No. That's fine. Come on in.

Thanks. Is Jessica busy? I ask when I am sitting in their living room.

She's feeding Kade and Kaylee. Is everything okay? You look like you need to talk.

I do.

What do you need? I'm your friend too.

I met someone on Tuesday.

Oh?

Yes. Creed's brother. He works for the Technology Department at the college.

I didn't know Creed has a brother.

Yes, and apparently, they aren't close. Anyway, we met when I was having car trouble, and he replaced the battery for me.

So, what's the problem? I'm glad he was there to help you.

The problem is I already like him. He said he doesn't want a friend even though he needs good friends. He's not a Christian.

Oh. I see. Maybe God will use you to reach him. Just don't change because you like him.

I know. We exchanged cell-phone numbers, and he said he would initiate contact, but he hasn't. I haven't even seen him on campus. What can I do?

Pray. There's power in prayer, Shannon. Believe me, I know.

Is it wrong I would like to see him again?

No, but don’t date him until he's a believer. Otherwise, your relationship won't last.

I know. He has a wild lifestyle.

I remember those days. He needs to know nothing in this world will give him peace.

Yes. I think he knows that.

Give it time. Live out your faith the best way you can, and maybe God will use all of us to reach him. I've been down the road he's on.

Yes.

In the meantime, why don't you invite him over? I'm grilling steak tonight. He needs to know someone cares.

Okay. Seth said he would initiate calls though.

Yeah, but maybe you should.

Okay.

I'll give you some privacy. Call Seth while I check on Jessica and the children.

Okay. Thanks, Brent.

You're welcome. Any time.

You sound just like Kade. Brent laughs.

Yeah. We really are family, Brent says as he leaves the room. I take Brent's advice and call Seth. Hopefully, he won't hang up on me. He answers on the third ring.

Hello?

Hi.

Shannon?

Yes, it's me.

Are you okay?

Yes. I hope it's okay I called.

Yeah. Why wouldn't it be?

Well, you told me not to.

Yeah. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said that. You can always call me.

Okay. Well, are you busy tonight?

No. I haven't done anything today.

Oh. I'm at Brent and Jessica's. Brent is grilling steak and told me I could invite you.

He did, huh?

Yes. Seth is silent for some time. Did he hang up? Seth?

Oh, sorry. You'll have to give me the address. What time should I come over? Yes!

You can come any time. I'll text you the address.

Give me at least thirty minutes, okay?

Okay. If you have other plans, I understand.

No. I don't. I drank enough last night. I need a break.

Please tell me you didn't drink and drive.

No, sweetheart. You don't have to go to a bar to drink. You can do that at home.

By yourself?

Yeah. Don't say anything about that, okay?

I won't.

Thank you. I'll see you in thirty minutes.

Okay.

Brent answers the door thirty minutes later. Seth is here, comes into the living room, and looks so cute today in jeans, a t-shirt, and boots.

Honey, this is Seth Davis. He's having supper with us tonight. Seth, this is my wife Jessica, Brent says. To my surprise, Seth shakes Jessica's hand.

It's nice meeting you, Jessica says.

You too. Brent, I've heard about you.

Oh?

Yeah. You almost fought with my brother a few months ago. I'm the only one who can take him down. Creed isn't so perfect after all.

He understands why we almost fought, and we get along now. I promised Jessica I would not let a situation escalate.

I wouldn't be able to do that.

There was a time I wasn't able to. You'll learn when to fight and when it's best not to.

Yeah.

Would you like some Aleve? You look like you could use some.

No, thanks. I took some earlier, but it didn't help. It's my fault anyway. I shouldn’t drink as much as I do.

I remember those days. Drinking and anything else you try won't give you the peace you need. Believe me, I've been there.

Yeah.

You can't live that lifestyle forever. Eventually, it will take its toll.

It already is.

I know. Were you raised in church?

No.

I wasn't either. Have you ever been to the church we attend?

No.

You should come sometime. You might feel like you don't belong there at first and think you should leave, but you will stay because you do belong there and are accepted. Be open to what God wants to do in your life.

Okay. What did it take for you? What was your breaking point?

I started to see some things in my life needed to change, and the way I was living was not right. Some friends started praying for me. Eventually, complete strangers, including my wife, prayed for me as well. People showed me they really cared when I moved to Rock Creek. I still dealt with things even after becoming a Christian, but God set me free of smoking and drinking the night I accepted Christ. He can do the same for you if you ask Him to. I still deal with some things, but God gave me a peace the world could never give me.

Yeah.

Would you like to help me cook these steaks?

Sure.

The guys leave. Jessica and I are each holding a twin.

Jessica, I just love holding your babies. She smiles.

I do too. They are so sweet, and I love them so much.

I know. It's relaxing holding them.

Yes. Do you think Brent will be the one to reach Seth.

I don't know. Maybe God will use all of us. I laugh.

You and Brent are the perfect match. That's what he said.

Yes, we are.

Would y’all like to eat on the deck? Brent asks a short time later.

Would it be too cold for Kade and Kaylee?

No, honey.

Okay.

Dinner will be ready in a few minutes.

All right.

You look like holding a baby suits you, Seth says. I jump. I didn't even know he was here.

Yes.

I'm sorry. I didn't mean to startle you.

It's okay.

What did I tell you about paying attention to your surroundings?

It will take time to develop that skill.

You might not have time.

Yeah. I know. Would you like to hold Kaylee?

No. I don't hold babies. Besides, I just had a cigarette. I'll just enjoy seeing the way you look when you hold her.

Okay. Would you mind following me home when we leave tonight?

No. Why?

I think Jared has been following me, but I don't know for sure.

How long has that been going on?

A while.

And you're just now telling me?

I don't think he followed me on Tuesday.

That's not what I meant.

What if I'm wrong, and it isn't him?

What if you're right, and it is? I shudder. I can drive you anywhere you need to go.

Then, he would start recognizing your car.

Not as fast as I drive.

I can't ask you to drive me.

All right. We'll try it your way for now. However, that might change. I think it's my job to protect you.

Okay. Thank you.

Don't thank me. I like you, and this is something I can do since I can't be the man you need right now.

You could be.

Give it time, Shannon.

I don't want to be the reason you become a Christian, Seth.

You won't be, but I can date you when I am.

Yes. Brent comes into the living room and takes Kaylee.

Supper is ready, Brent says.

Okay. Thanks, Seth says.

This time with friends is so much fun. I think Seth and Brent are even becoming friends. Jessica and