My Favorite Husband

By Sarah Wylde

More than seven years has passed since the love of Shiloh's life has disappeared and is presumed dead. It is time to move forward and let Ethan go. Not just for her sake, but for her family's too. However, life does not always go as planned. Even though her future with the charming Richard seems to be just what she wants; Ethan returns with some surprises of his own.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Apr 14, 2020
• ISBN: 9781728358864

Sarah Wylde

I believe stories are very important. I know from experience that a good tale can help us become better people. It also gives us something to hold onto when times are difficult. I grew up enjoying reading but found it more vital after I became an adult. I want to share fables which will allow the reader to transform, mold, and create a better future; not just for ourselves, but for the world around us.

Book preview

© 2020 Sarah Wylde. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or

transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents,

organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products

of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously.

Published by AuthorHouse 04/14/2020

ISBN: 978-1-7283-5887-1 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-7283-5886-4 (e)

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or

links contained in this book may have changed since publication and

may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those

of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher,

and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

Dedication

Author’s Notes

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

Dedication

To my parents for their unconditional love

and allowing us to pursue our dreams.

To my family who continually support

me in following my heart.

To my friends who encourage and bless me every day.

Most importantly, to the Holy Trinity who gives

men gifts and talents to change the world.

Author’s Notes

P lease do not confuse My Favorite Husband, the book you which are about to read, with an old radio program in 1953 starring Lucille Ball called My Favorite Husband. It was about a young married couple. Eventually it became transformed for television as the I Love Lucy show with her then husband Desi Arnaz. (Information came from Wikipedia.)

My Favorite Husband is a twist on an old movie called My Favorite Wife. It was a fun movie from 1940 starring Cary Grant and Irene Dunne. They were to remake it in 1962 with Dean Martin and Marilyn Monroe, by the name of Something’s Got to Give, but it was not completed before Marilyn’s death in 1962. James Garner and Doris Day remade the film in 1963 and it was called Move Over Darling. (Information came from the IMDb website.)

My Favorite Wife, is indeed a classic film with fun, frolic, and love. It gave me the inspiration for what you are about to read. Of course, this is a modern telling of the story and it has more action and drama rather than screwball comedy. There is humor, but it is not what drives the story. Love, commitment, and pursuing God gives the characters hope and purpose.

As on homage to the original film, I used the names Nick and Ellen Arden. They are not the main characters, but they are important to the story.

Thank you for taking the time to read and I hope you enjoy it.

Sarah Wylde

Chapter 1

26184.png

C ome on Beth, put your back into it. My back wasn’t made for this kind of torture. I need to get this done before the boys get back. All you have to do Shi is ask them to help you get this into the attic. And have them find all those lost Christmas gifts tucked away up there. Forget it.

Come on, push! Maybe I should pull, and you push. It’s too late to switch, we’re more than halfway there. Look, let’s dig deep and with one final push and pull we should be able to make it. On the count of three…one, two, three! And both yelled Aaaaaaahhhhhhh! finally they got the footlocker up into the attic. Breathlessly Shiloh said There, that wasn’t so bad now was it? Clutching her back Beth replied, Ugh. I think I need to see my chiropractor.

With half a smile Shiloh said, Any excuse to see Ernie. Beth shot her friend a look as she made her way into the attic. The room was actually quite bright for the top of the house. The builder put in four windows to capture the light for the entire day. Shiloh nudged her friend into service once again and this time they slid the box over into a corner. It rested against the gabled wall and completed the alcove that was there.

Shi, what is all this? What does it look like? It looks like a shrine to all things Ethan. Pictures hung on the walls and posts of her marriage and family. A makeshift closet held just a few items of clothes including his military pilot jumpsuit. And his favorite easy chair smack dab in the middle of it with a small table next to it. A lamp sat on it with some scrapbooks and a bible. One of Shiloh’s soft throw blankets draped the back of the chair. It’s not a shrine, exactly.

Well, you could have fooled me. Shiloh fingered one of the pictures and let out a sigh. Beth, I couldn’t get rid of these things. This is all that is left of Ethan. I kept these things hoping one day that I could give them to the boys.

Don’t you remember when his plane was shot down and then crashed in Jordan, the waiting was terrible. We sat by the phone night and day. Talking with anyone and everyone to find him. But after a while, all had given up hope and soon no one would take our calls. The media stopped waiting for a happy ending and somehow we had to move on without him.

Her eyes rested upon her favorite photo of them together. I finally sorted through everything and kept only those things that would remind Elisha and Jeremy that they get so much courage and strength from their dad. Not to mention, their good looks. Smiling, Shiloh answered. Yes, they are handsome boys, aren’t they?

Emotions flooded her being as she stared at the man that was so much like John Wayne, Captain America, and Tarzan all rolled into one. It’s hard to detach yourself from a lifetime Beth. Look Shi, I know that you and Ethan were incredible together. All of us believed that you two would make it. Even after 9/11 when he was recalled by the Air Force there were some rough patches, but we all could see the love between you growing stronger.

Shiloh listened and while she adjusted a tilted picture frame which caused the contents in the back of it to come loose. A letter fell out of it and immediately she recognizes Ethan’s handwriting. As she picks it up suddenly Shiloh’s mind shifts back to the day, she last saw Ethan. Their bedroom was still the same except for the long chiffon curtains that now formed a canopy over her bed. Ethan had finished packing his gear and tears formed in their eyes. This was the part they hated the most, their goodbyes. She knew her husband’s heart. She wouldn’t make it hard on him. It was time to be brave so; he would go and serve and protect them, their way of life, and the nation.

Ethan drew near to his wife. He wanted to stay, but he had made a vow, an oath. He was thankful that she had not turned her back to him. He wanted to see those gray sky eyes one more time. His right hand lifted her chin up and once again he was intoxicated by those lips of hers. So, he shifted his focus from her mouth to her hair and wrapped some of it up in his fingers. Lioness, I love you. I will be back. I promise you; nothing will keep me from you and our boys.

Just then Jeremy and Elisha come bursting into the room. Dad! You’re leaving? Crouching down Ethan used his long arms and pulled them to him. Yes, I am leaving. Trying to keep his voice even he said Somebody has to fight against these terrorists. There are some very good dads and moms going out today to do just that. I need you boys to pray for us. That God keeps and protects us as we go to battle. That God keeps and protects you and this great country of ours too. Do you think you can do this?

They put on their heroic faces and replied, Yes Sir! That’s my boys. He smiled, and he gave them a kiss and a bear hug. It was amazing how much they had grown. Ethan hoped he would be home before they grew too much taller. Don’t forget you may be the men of the house while I am away, but you still need to listen to your mom. She is still the boss. She will be my eyes and ears too. Got me?

Yes Dad, we read you loud and clear. Good. I expect letters and pictures, videos, some of Grandma’s delicious cookies, and some encouragement from Grandpa too. He said as his parents entered the room. Quickly, he told his parents how much they meant to him and that he loved them. We love you too son. And believe me, you’ll be in our prayers daily. Thanks Dad.

Everyone just stood there looking at each other for the longest time. He needed to go; but he wanted one more minute with Shiloh. Mom, Dad, could you give me a little time with my girl? Absolutely! Come on boys and show us this new video game you’ve been raving about on the phone.

As the door closed behind them, Ethan scooped up the love of his life and said, No matter how much time we have together, it is never enough. Gently he kisses her and Shiloh clings tightly to him. Tears fell as she smiled looking into his rugged face. She couldn’t help herself, Hey Fearless, I don’t want you to leave without a proper send off. Pulling him in tighter Shiloh gives him a kiss that made them both weak in the knees. That kiss felt as if an eternity passed between them. Trying to sneak a letter into his shirt pocket his hand discovers her ploy. Without fanfare she buttons it down to keep its contents safe. No need to read this now; keep it for later. Especially on days it’s really hard. Ethan takes his wife’s hand from his chest and kisses the inside of her palm. Shiloh closed her eyes and then he was gone.

Suddenly Shiloh was pulled back from the past by her friend’s statement, And that’s why none of my marriages ever worked. What? asked Shiloh. Beth looked at her friend, I said this is why none of my marriages ever worked out because none of my relationships could never match up to what you and Ethan had. Beth, that is not why your marriages never worked. You just married the wrong guy three times. Even though it was the same wrong guy three times. True, I guess I am a hopeless romantic. I really hoped that Ernie would turn out to be the guy of my dreams. By the way he will be my escort to your wedding.

Stuffing the letter into her jean pocket Shiloh spoke Seriously Beth, my dear friend, you can do so much better. Maybe, but it’s next to impossible to find a date on such short notice. You’ve had six months to find one. I think you just didn’t want to try. Beth ignored her. She couldn’t help it if she still loved Ernie. She couldn’t tell anyone why. Except he had always been an excellent lover. Which sparked a question that she wanted answered from Shiloh.

So, just why are you marrying Richard? Is it for his money or good looks? Shiloh glared hard at Beth’s ridiculous question, but that didn’t stop her from prying even further. I know! It’s because he rocks your world? He’s great in bed, right? Beth! Well? Beth, I thought you knew me better than that. We want to do things right before God and man.

Not backing off Beth presses Shiloh. Does he get under your skin? Because if he doesn’t get under your skin; you’re settling and that isn’t fair to either one of you. Beth, I think you’re exaggerating. No, I’m not! Do you love him? Yes or No?

Yes, I love him. He is a good and he is faithful. You’re describing my dog. Frowning at her mischievous friend. Beth, we both know you do not have a dog. Ok, you’re describing someone’s dog, but seriously good and faithful? Regardless of what you may think, these are good qualities to have, especially in this day and age. Look, Richard knows that he is not my first love nor am I his."

And he’s ok with this memorial to Ethan? Yes. He knows it’s up here and I haven’t been up here in a long while. Shaking out the throw dust fills the air to prove her point. So, what is in the footlocker? Shiloh answers cryptically Life, history, and changing the subject. Let’s get a move on Beth I need your help downstairs.

Wait a second. Beth spies on the north wall of the house a plethora of framed pictures. Some hanging up while others leaned against the wall. Shi, these pictures are incredible. Why haven’t I seen these before? I forgot about them. These are from the early days of my career. I didn’t think they were good enough then, but time certainly changes one’s perspective. Here, let’s take these three down to my bedroom. They will look great hanging above my headboard. Oooooohhhh, what about this one for the living room? Great eye Beth. I should switch it out for this one. Wow! Can I have this one? Shi smiles it is a great picture. It was one she took the first time Ethan took her up in his plane. Tell you what. When I get back from my honeymoon; I’ll get you a print of it. Now let’s go or we’ll have to make several trips up and down these steps and I have already had my work out for the day.

Closing the attic door Beth asks So, which of the boys are giving you away? Neither. Ethan’s dad is giving me away. Really? Why? "You know my parents died awhile back and then when Ethan’s jet crashed and there was no word; Nick and Ellen moved in. They really have been perfect in helping out and have been more than supportive of me dating again.

Speaking of Nick and Ellen, are they moving out when Richard moves in? Yes, of course, but not too far away. They are so involved with the boys; I do not want them to feel estranged from them because I re-married. And Richard is fine with this? Yes. They are the ones who introduced us.

You said he is good with the boys. I haven’t been around to see him with them. Beth, you haven’t been around for a long time. Can I help it? My job can be a lot to handle. Ah yes, the private jet stewardess or is it private jet flight attendant? I can never keep those straight. Just who have you been playing high in the sky chauffer with? You know I can’t tell you that. I will lose my contract, but I can say this. Finally, I am working for someone who appreciates the finer things in life like distant beaches in Fiji. Both laughed as they carried