No Engagement Ring

By Julie Sewcharan

Pretty, timid Hannah Wilkens has 'run away' from her small town home, her father's church and caring family to 'hide' in the big city. Now she needs a job and hopes to get one at the school associated with the church pastored by a man far too young, good looking and overpowering, in her opinion. Would God bring her restoration and peach in this church? Or would she lose more than she had in the past?

Young Jonathan Chandler's wife divorced him for going into full time ministry, which left him devastated. But God had been faithful with complete emotional healing and endowed Jonathan with strength, wisdom and knowledge to run a large church. When the young Hannah comes into his life, he has to wonder where God is taking him. Initially he fights God for in his opinion, she is far too young for the post at the school, but soon comes to realise that God's plans are best!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Julie Sewcharan
• Release date: Sep 28, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370196289

Julie Sewcharan

A full time wife and mum. Have all my life wanted to write a book. Love reading, writing and being there for my family. Also enjoy keeping busy. Have a wonderful husband and children. I am blessed!

Book preview

No Engagement Ring

Copyright 2017 Julie Sewcharan

Smashwords Edition

Smashwords Edition License Notes

Thank you for downloading this ebook. This book remains the copyrighted property of the author. If you enjoyed this book, please encourage your friends to download their own copy from their favourite authorised retailer. Thank you for your support.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

Dedicated to my loving, romantic husband who believed I could do this and to Heavenly Father for making my dream come true. I couldn’t have done it without the Holy Spirit.

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 23

Chapter 24

About the author

Chapter 1

Hannah looked around the small front office frantically. She was hoping to have completed her mission quickly and be out of there before her nerves failed her. Alas! That was not to be.

There was no one at the reception desk even though it was strewn with papers. Maybe the person who sat behind that desk had just popped out and would be back soon? she thought hopefully. How long would that take though? she wondered despondent. Looking around nervously, she spotted another office just down the passage. Someone was in there.

Making her way gingerly towards the office, she breathed deeply. I can do this, she kept thinking as each step brought her closer to the office.

The large man in the office, behind the desk, was facing away from the door, looking in the filing cabinet, so he was not aware of her presence. Even with his back turned to her, she felt intimidated. Suddenly, the warmness of the air conditioning was stifling, whereas initially, she had not even felt it.

Timidly, she knocked on the door but he didn't turn around. Stepping into the big office that housed an heavy oak desk placed quite a way inwards from the door, she called out, Excuse me! in her soft lilting voice.

The man turned around with a startled expression which was replaced with a suspicious look. He towered over her even from behind the desk.

Yes? he quizzed with slight impatience.

Hannah swallowed but answered steadily, keeping eye contact with the man. I'm looking for Pastor Jonathan Chandler, she answered timidly but steadily.

That's me, he informed, still looking at her suspiciously.

The instinct to bolt was great but Hannah knew she needed to complete her mission. At least try to complete it. But no words came out of her mouth at the confession of his identity. She just stared at him. He could not be more than thirty to be pastoring a congregation this size – the building could easily accommodate three to four thousand people. And he was too good looking, the rolled up sleeves of his formal shirt, tucked into his perfect fit jeans, displaying strong, muscular arms.

It must have been a long stare because he said in an annoyed tone, May I help you?

Blinking, Hannah apologised. I am sorry. I was expecting someone... she trailed off.

Someone else? he finished.

Yes, she confessed. His eyes narrowed. Aren't pastors supposed to be much older, married with lots of children? she rushed on voicing her thoughts then blushed. Her mother had warned her, previously, to be careful about voicing her thoughts.

His annoyance was more pronounced as he recited, Joseph became ruler over Egypt at thirty, David became king of Israel at thirty, Jesus began His ministry at thirty. I had a wife but she left when I told her I was going into full time ministry. He ended by giving her a take it or leave it look simultaneously wondering why he mentioned his divorce. He never divulged that to just anyone; in fact the majority of his congregation did not know this. But it was too late to take back. It didn't matter; it was highly unlikely he would see her again.

Point taken, she smiled an apologetic smile that lifted the scared look she wore on her face. I was told that you had a vacancy for a teacher in your school, she forged ahead mentally bracing herself. This man really intimidated her.

And who told you this? he asked candidly.

Hannah had the urge to bolt again but she suppressed it by taking a deep breath, licking her lips and pushing her unruly curly wisps of hair, that had escaped her winter hat, back underneath it. Pastor George Henderson of Care Community Church. I attend there. Her last statement was more pronounced than she intended but she didn't flinch.

He seemed pacified with the information. But the drilling had only begun. You are a teacher? he asked in a tone of disbelief, as if she would lie about something like that.

Squaring her shoulders, she answered frankly, I have been teaching grade two for the past two years at a public school. Well, almost two years, she justified mentally.

And you left because? It sounded like he wanted to trap her.

I don't like the politics and atheism they display in public schools and would much rather teach in a Christian school. Her voice sounded steady in her ears even if her heart was beating so loudly she was surprised pastor Chandler didn't hear it. At least her answer was partially true, she justified again.

A bit strange to leave in the middle of the year though, isn't it? His dark brown, almost black, evenly spaced eyes were probing hers but she didn't flinch.

Holding his gaze, she answered just as steadily, It...became unbearable. That part was true, she commended herself. His eyebrows rose but he didn't comment. I have a CV that has all the details and the contact numbers for references, she waved the paper she had in her hand, slightly.

He came around the desk and stood in front of her. Hannah stepped back a good few paces and stretched out her hand. He looked at her puzzled but grasped the document by the outer edge. As soon as it left her hand, Hannah stepped back another two paces. Noticing the movement out of the corner of his eye, he compelled himself to not glare at her. What a strange woman! he thought unceremoniously.

Jonathan glanced at the cover of the document before returning to the other side of the desk. He sat relaxed in the big leather chair.

Looking up at her, he stated frankly, This is a school decision. I will pass your CV to the principal. They will make a decision and if they decide to call you, then well and good. He placed her CV on a pile of papers to the right of his desk.

It was a dismissive statement but Hannah was grateful she would be dealing with the principal rather than him. Thank you so much. And goodbye. She was out of the office before he could say another word.

Outside she breathed normally, relieved it was over. She had done it! She had just applied for the post that was brought to her attention out of the blue, especially when she had lost hope of ever finding a position. She gave a victory jump of joy, then quickly looked around to see if anyone had seen her. Thankfully, no one was around.

Shaking his head, Jonathan placed the CV at the back of his desk with no intention of giving it another glance. The woman was pretty young even if her CV stated she was twenty three. Dressed in layers of warm clothes that engulfed her, she looked like a teen. Nope! He was going to shelve her CV.

Hire her! the voice was very clear.

What!? he asked more to clarify for himself. He had heard clearly the first time.

Hire her! the voice was firm and very clear.

But Lord, she is not suitable. She is far too young, very timid and far too pretty. Did I say that out loud? he asked a hand over his mouth.

Hire her! the Lord said again.

Fine! he said defiantly. You're the boss. Jonathan just could not understand why he was so against her coming into their lives especially if God wanted her to be there. It just didn't make sense. Timid though she looked, she didn't display any threatening traits. In fact she looked very honest. He shook his head, perplexed. Why did he want to fight this?

Later that afternoon, he walked over to the school. Built at the back of the property, it offered security to the pupils and staff in a safe environment and out of view of the public. The only entrance to the school was via a security gate which required sign in with proof of identity for entrants other than parents, security badges for parents and finger prints for staff. No pupil was allowed in or out of the property without a parent or guardian in possession of the badge.

Fifty three year old Sarah Hart, was in her office doing paper work when Jonathan approached. He stood in the doorway and knocked.

A welcoming smile broke out on Sarah's smooth, make up free face, reaching her grey eyes, at the sight of Jonathan. Please come in Jonathan, she invited pleasantly.

Jonathan complied. Mrs Hart was always such a welcoming figure of a woman. Motherly looking though she was, she still dressed in elegant attire and was full of encouragement. He'd liked her immediately she applied for the post of principal. Her Christian values and morals were of utmost importance to her, matching the Church's ethics and instilling them into the children was clearly her mission.

She got on very well with the teachers and they liked her too. Not a bad word was spoken about her. Thanks to her the school ran smoothly every day.

What can I do for you? she asked kindly. Her soft spoken question belied the iron strength she possessed.

We need to hire this person for the Grade R post. He placed the CV in front of the principal.

Baffled she scanned the first page of the CV before turning a questioning gaze on him. Why am I getting involved in this? You usually do the hiring.

I would like her to think it is a school decision. He was vague.

Why? Sarah was candid.

I think she is unsuitable for the position but He, Jonathan pointed upwards, thinks she is the one for this post.

Sarah nodded with understanding. "And when He speaks we must obey. Alright, I will get Madeline to set up an interview." She was matter-of-fact about it but not uncharitable.

I want to be in on the interview and...include Emily, he said casually.

Sarah was too respectful to voice her question as to why. They had never done interviews in this manner before. Sarah usually did the second interview on her own after Jonathan sent them to her as approved.

Thank you, he said humbly, not adding 'for not probing.'

You're welcome! she said with a brilliant smile.

Hannah was very surprised but relieved to get a call from Sarah Hart's office the very next day. Her encounter with Pastor Jonathan Chandler was not very forthcoming and certainly not positive; she knew he was not keen to have her on the school staff. That didn't bother her at all for she knew that she would not be dealing with him if she did get recruited by the school.

Even though she had wanted the position badly – her money was running out here in the city – she knew that the ultimate decision lay with God. Would He want to help her though, after the way she had behaved these last couple of months? She wasn't sure. But He had granted her an interview. For that she was very grateful which she told Him many times that day.

Dressing carefully for the interview, she ensured her attire was modest and respectable. Wrapping herself in layers of warm clothes she added a thick jacket over and donned sensible shoes. Piling her thick locks on top of her head, helped to make her look older and more mature – she had often been mistaken for a teen – and highlighted her high cheekbones. Her only make-up was lip gloss that had a tinge of pink. Stud earrings completed her ensemble.

Ensuring that she was there well before the time slot allocated to her, afforded her the opportunity to explore the church building. It was a beautiful place and she could feel God's presence here. One could spend hours in this serenity, she revelled. A pity she had run from His presence all those months ago, but maybe now she could find her way back. If she got the job.

The large hall was filled with bolted down comfortable chairs. A stage was erected against the far wall, not large but roomy enough for many instruments and people to be on at the same time. She sighed. The church she'd left behind at home was much smaller than this one and homely.

One day perhaps she would be able to go back home without cringing. Afternoon, miss! a middle aged man greeted her cheerily as he carried some boxes towards the back of the church, breaking into her reverie. He probably worked at the church, Hannah deducted.

Good afternoon! she called back amicably then looked at her watch. Lost in her musings, she had lost track of the time. She'd better get to the school.

Instructions on how to locate the school had been received by her and she was glad that it was easy to find from the main church building. Signing in was a task as it required personal information such as identity and contact numbers, etc. Not that it bothered her though; it was an indication that the children were in safe hands.

Madeline, the school secretary, led her to the interview room, all the while chatting about the school in a very welcoming mode. As if Hannah was already a staff member there. Not that she minded at all! Quietness reigned in the corridors as the school day was over and no children were around. A sense of peace came over Hannah. It was a totally different atmosphere to what she was used.

It was a relaxing walk, though, and Hannah's nervousness dissipated along the way to the interview. However, it came right back when she walked into the room. They were using one of the classrooms for the interview. Three people were ready to interview her. She hadn't expected pastor Chandler to be there!

Hiding, her distraught state was not easy but she managed to stay calm and cool. One of the woman, she knew would be the principal but who was the other woman? They both had grey hair and kind, eyes. One grey and the other light blue.

Hello, Miss Wilkens! I'm Sarah Hart, the principal. The principal's greeting was warm and inviting. This is Emily Garrick, she pointed to the other woman, older than herself. She is taking care of the grade R class in the meantime. Ah, that would explain why she was there. And I believe you met Jonathan Chandler.

Hannah nodded nervously, greeting everyone, with a barely audible, 'hello'. Why was he here? Her mind was in a turmoil but she couldn't let it affect her just now. Focus on the principal, she told herself sternly. They all sat down around the teacher's desk. Hannah was grateful for the table between them and her.

The two women asked her some questions, pertaining to school and qualifications, in a gentle manner but Jonathan remained quiet. Even though he was silent, Hannah still felt intimidated so her answers were short, as she gripped her jacket tightly which lay over her lap having taken it off when she entered the warm room. It gave her some comfort.

When they seemed satisfied with the questioning, Sarah turned to Jonathan. Was there anything you wanted to ask Miss Wilkens?

With a masked expression, he looked her straight in the eyes and said, In order to work at this school, you would have to become a member of this church. Are you prepared to do that?

Her hesitation was ever so slight but she answered with conviction, Yes!

You would also have to teach under the supervision of Mrs Garrick for two weeks.. Hannah accepted.

There is a discipleship course which runs for four weeks on a Saturday from nine am to four pm that you are required to attend, his gaze remained steady ignoring the surprised look the women on either side of him gave him. He was surprised Hannah did not pick up on that but then her nervousness would blot out everything. Even though she didn't look nervous, he was well aware that her entire body was stiff with the effort of remaining calm. Although she looked a lot more mature and older than yesterday, not to mention more beautiful, he had seen the uncertainty in her eyes when she spotted him in the room. Suppressing the pity he felt, he had remained quiet for most of the interview. It surprised him that she managed to remain in the room until now and answer all the questions with clarity.

Hannah didn't hesitate this time, That would not be a problem.

There's a course starting next Saturday, he said ever so casually.

Wait, does that mean I’ve got the job? Hannah asked with bated breath after digesting the information.

Yes! It was Sarah who answered with a smile.

Hannah jumped up and profusely thanked them then sat back down in a poised manner. Sorry, you were saying...

We don't tolerate tardiness. Do you have reliable transport? he asked mercilessly.

As reliable as buses are, she shrugged. I see that the bus stops right here outside the church.

They wrapped up the process and told her that she was starting the very next day – Hannah didn't question the expeditious hiring – then released her.

With sincere appreciation, she exited the room with a speed they were surprised at from such a small built person.

The discipleship course? Emily asked puzzled once they were alone. None of our other teachers were forced to attend.

Jonathan shrugged not willing to share his thoughts.

You were pretty hard on her, Sarah said also puzzled. I have never seen you like that with a woman before.

Call it male ego, he excused. They gave him a bewildered look. Usually women are running into me but this one just wants to run away from me, he elaborated.

Both women laughed heartily.

But why have me supervise her? Emily asked baffled. I am not a qualified teacher and I only agreed to supervise the children until you find a teacher.

I just feel she is far too young, he shrugged.

At twenty three, I already had a one year old child, Emily retorted with raised eyebrows.

She is a very young twenty three year old, he sighed. "And very timid. Imagine what the children will do to her! I would rather you kept an eye on her and if she