Giving Grace: The Grace Series, #6

By Anna Christine Boulier

 

Preston Dyson, III first arrived in Cartersville to win back his ex-fiancée but instead gave his heart to God. Now, as a Christian businessman, Preston is moving to Cartersville to open a new restaurant based on godly Christian principles. He just needs the perfect manager and chef.

Sharon Pruitt's perfect life in Chicago fell apart after her husband dumped her for another woman. Broken and hurting, she moved to Cartersville to start over. Unable to find a job in a restaurant, she became a bank teller, but her heart still longs for the restaurant on the river.

When the chance to interview for the manager's position for Preston's new restaurant arrives, Sharon hesitates to apply because Preston's sophisticated business ways remind her too much of her ex-husband. Preston knows of the dark-haired beauty but finds her too quiet and shy to be the outstanding manager he needs to make this business a success.

Will these two find a way to give each other grace and find out God might have more in store for each of them?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Anna Christine Boulier
• Release date: Dec 6, 2021
• ISBN: 9781950816088

Anna Christine Boulier

Anna Christine Boulier has been a writer/storyteller since she begged her mother to learn to read before she entered first grade- to the bane of her first grade teacher. Since then she has written short stories and had characters that lived in her head for years. In May of 2013, God gave her a story and she wrote it in six weeks. Once the first book lived on paper she couldn’t stop. She currently has three books written with more on the way. She grew up in Cartersville and except for a brief stint in Atlanta for college, she’s been there ever since. If you meet her, she can tell you more, because it’s a story! Writing is not full time, she pays the bills with a full time job that helps her stay creative. Writing is my testimony- Grace my story! It isn’t just a tagline, but a way of life.

Book preview

Prologue

January 2012

Excuse me.

Lady, are you going to move?

Can I get through?

Sharon looked up to see several people trying to move past her off the elevator. Oh, I’m sorry. The woman with the expressive chestnut eyes smiled at the group of men stuck behind her waiting. I’m so sorry.

Stepping out of the elevator, she moved aside to let everyone pass her in their rush to get to work. She had been a bit distracted riding down eleven floors of her building. Last night’s fight with Ben must have messed with me more than I thought.

Once everyone cleared the elevator, she walked quickly through the lobby, her heavy boots squeaking on the marble floor. Pulling her coat tighter, she waved at the doorman of her building. Hi, Jim. How are the girls?

Fine, Mrs. Sharon. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small card. The missus wanted me to give you this. It’s a thank you for the blanket you knitted for our new baby. She’s crawling now, so my wife said to apologize it took so long to say thanks.

I understand, it’s hard with two little ones at home close in age. Tell your wife I said hello.

Will do. He held the door for her. Wrap up now, it’s cold even with a bit of sun. There are no clouds at the moment but I doubt that it will last.

I’ll enjoy it while I can, it’s supposed to start snowing later tonight and not stop for a week.

Bye, Mrs. Pruitt.

Not stopping, Sharon waved as she pulled her coat tighter. The wind whipped around her, making the scarf around her neck fly up into her face. Pushing it down, she began her walk to the L train to begin her ride to work. She managed an elegant restaurant overlooking the river, and couldn’t imagine a better life. Chicago was her city, these people were her people, and her job the best in the whole world.

Frowning, a look people would be shocked to see on Sharon’s naturally happy face, she thought again of the fight with her husband and wondered what was wrong with them. We’ve never fought like this before! Ben and I’ve always gotten along. Our schedules are so different, we have to make the time we have together count but lately the only times we see each other is to argue. I know he’s working on a difficult case at the law firm, but he’s never had trouble leaving problems at work before. Maybe because it’s a high-profile client with the firm? As a divorce lawyer, I know he sees a lot of heartbreaking ending to marriages.

Seeing her stop coming up, Sharon put her husband out of her mind and focused on the day. She used to read on the train, but became so engrossed in her book, and too many times missed her stop. Mentally running through the reservations for lunch and dinner, she spied the bag lady who sat on the corner jingling her can for money, Sharon put in a dollar after a quick hello. Reminding herself to bring leftovers from dinner to her on the way back home, she kept up a brisk pace ignoring the darkening skies with low, heavy clouds starting to roll in. It’s awfully cold today and will snow before evening.

Walking quickly with the crowd of people, she made her way to her favorite little bakery on the corner. Speeding around a woman listening on her headphones walking slowly, Sharon stepped into the little warm shop out of the cold January morning and waved at the waitress taking someone’s order.

Spying her special coffee to go sitting on the counter, Sharon called out a thanks to Elena, the owner, already on her way back out the door. She had a standing order with the bakery for a tall coffee of a special blend no one else in Chicago carried. Elena graciously offered to have a large cup ready each morning for her on way to work, and Sharon paid her tab at the end of each month.

Growing up, she loved the special visits to the little bakery with her mother before her little sister was born. Even after all these years, she knew all of the regular customers and staff. On her days off, she stopped in for a meal with her coffee, but when she worked, she only had time for a quick run and grab.

Stepping back out into the cold, she held the coffee cup tightly, enjoying the warmth it brought to her hands through her gloves. She rushed the last few blocks to her restaurant with a large grin on her face in contrast to everyone else with their heads down to avoid the cold wind blasting from the river. Saying hello to each staff member as she put away her purse, she knew even though she only worked at the restaurant, this place was still hers.

I need to talk to you, Sharon.

When the door from the kitchen swung open, Sharon looked up to see one of the more temperamental chefs frowning. Oh, no, not good! Hi, Rob. Nice morning, isn’t it?

No, Sharon... It’s not! Rob shouted. THAT fish place got MY order wrong AGAIN! That’s the third time this month. I won’t have it. He threw a towel on the floor, stomping his foot. I’ve had it with this new owner. He makes dumb...

Now, Rob. Don’t say anything you’ll regret. You need this job. Your ex-wife told you if you missed another child support payment, she was going to take you to court again.

I know, but... His pudgy face turned scarlet.

No, buts. I’ll take care of it. I always do, don’t I? It would make you miserable not to see your kids, you know.

Yes, you’re right. Rob’s voice lowered a bit.

Then, I’ll take care of it. Picking up the towel to toss in the laundry, Sharon turned back to Rob. "It’s the new co-owner. Todd still owns the majority. The new guy’s just flexing his muscles. He’ll settle down soon.

They always do."

Yeah, I know, but he’s messing with my fish order. He muttered, walking back into the kitchen.

Grazie Dio! Good, he’s much calmer. As long as the vein in his forehead doesn’t pop up, he can be reasoned with.

Remembering the last time, the fish order was wrong, Sharon shuddered and went to grab her notebook with the to-do list for today. After putting her name tag on her crisp, white shirt, Sharon prepared to tackle a new day. Maybe, I can make it home before Ben and make a special dinner for the two of us.

The day passed quickly with the usual problems of a busy five-star restaurant. Glad it was smooth sailing after she dealt with the fish situation, she talked to customers and made sure the staff worked up to the usual excellent standards, keeping the fight with Ben out of the forefront of her mind.

In between the lunch and the dinner rush, she looked up a special fish recipe of her own to make for dinner. Planning her route home to pick up ingredients for the meal, she whistled on her walk back to her downtown apartment on Dearborn, even in the bitter cold.

She had enough time to drop off some leftovers with the bag lady, before running into the bakery to pay her tab along with purchasing a decadent dessert for tonight. Walking off the elevator to her eleventh-floor apartment, she began to remove the layers of clothes she wore to protect herself from the biting cold. Surprised Ben wasn’t home at this late hour, she walked down the short hall to the kitchen. I thought we could do what we did when we were first married, I’d cook while he sat at the table to tell me about his day. We haven’t spent time together in ages. 

Setting the bag of groceries down on the counter, she saw a note on the kitchen table and moved to read it. I hope he isn’t going to be late again. I know this is a big case, but he’s worked late every night for a month!

Sharon,

I’m done. I can’t do this any longer. I don’t love you anymore, and I’m not sure I ever have. I’ve moved out and will be sending you divorce papers by the end of this week. Make sure you send me your rings. They’ve been in my family for years and I want them back.

Ben Pruitt

Sharon stood frozen in the kitchen. Unable to move, she looked at the food she planned cooking tonight before collapsing on the floor sobbing. She cried out, her voice breaking, Oh, Dio! What do I do now? What do I do? Her sobs echoed through the empty apartment. It was a long time before she lifted herself up off the floor.

Chapter One

March 2015

Preston smiled down at his goddaughter who had finally fallen asleep. Rocking her gently, he debated between putting her down in her crib or holding her a bit longer. Who am I kidding? I’ll hold her as long as I can.

Glancing at the clock on the navy wall above her crib, Preston realized Bales and Josh would be back soon from their dinner and he would have to leave before long anyway. Looking at her rosy cheeks and slight smile, Preston couldn’t believe how much he loved this little girl. It was instant Lord, as soon as I held little EJ in my arms I was a goner. Is that how you are with your children? Instant, unwavering love?

Preston? Are you here?

Looking up, Preston smiled at Bailey walking through the nursery door. Whispering, he said, How was the dinner?

Lovely! But I’ve missed her. It doesn’t feel right if she isn’t nearby.

Chuckling, Preston admitted, Yeah.

Bailey frowned. Speaking of nearby... You’ve been here for two weeks now.

Ready to get rid of me?

Of course not, it’s been wonderful having you around! I don’t think I would’ve been comfortable leaving EJ with anyone else since Andrea and Mark were attending the dinner with us. Hugging her waist, Bailey smiled. I’m an overprotective mother, like I told myself not to be, but I don’t trust leaving my little girl with just anyone.

I’m honored.

Please, Preston. You’re family. Josh and I consider you a brother, but don’t you have work to get back to?

Standing up, he laid EJ in her crib. He rubbed her back until she settled down and then turned to Bailey. I actually wanted to talk to you and Josh about that.

Well, he’s in the kitchen getting a sandwich if you want to come down.

Didn’t he just come from a banquet?

Bailey laughed softly. Yes, but it was one of those dinners with small plates of food at the beginning and then two hours of speeches.

Pushing up his sleeves, Preston nodded. I’ve attended many of those.

He passed the baby monitor to Bailey before they walked downstairs.

Bailey wanted to grill him and find out why he hadn’t left since he had shown up at the hospital the day EJ was born two weeks ago. I’m growing used to him being around and with how emotional I am after having the baby, I’ll bawl for weeks when he leaves for Colorado Springs.

Josh looked up from his sandwich when he saw them walking into the kitchen. In between bites, he asked, Hey, Preston! How’s EJ?

Perfect, as always. Want a sandwich?

Honey, Preston has something he wants to talk to us about.

Sure.

Preston grabbed a bottle of water out of the fridge, before sitting next to Josh at the kitchen island. As Bailey made herself a snack, Preston gripped the bottle, taking a few sips. Here goes! Bales asked why I’m still around after two weeks... B! Josh stopped mid-bite to stare at his wife.

It wasn’t accusatory like the way Preston’s making it sound...

Chuckling, Preston set down his water. "It’s okay. I actually planned

on telling you guys sooner, but EJ’s early arrival and then Bale’s parents staying for a week put it on hold."

Josh watched Preston strangle the poor water bottle. What’s up, Pres?

I’m moving to Cartersville... Preston looked up at them. Well, technically I’ve already moved. My stuff arrived two weeks ago and I’m settling into my place next weekend. The previous renters will be out by then.

What? Bailey and Josh said together.

Putting down the sandwich meat, Bailey came around the corner of the island and hugged him. You’re moving here, I mean, you’re staying? That’s wonderful.

What a surprise? You didn’t say a word? Josh set his sandwich down. How did this happen and why the big secret?

Preston blushed, even with a deep tan. Umm... I guess I should start at the beginning.

Please! Bailey moved to finish making herself a sandwich.

Well, last November, when I helped out with the Thanksgiving event you started for the homeless families in Cartersville, I met an older gentleman who invests in businesses like I do. We got to talking about Cartersville’s growing potential, and after only a few months, we decided to go into a business together.

Wow. Bailey moved to sit by her husband, excited her daughter would grow up knowing Preston as a favorite uncle.

Yeah, wow. It happened really fast... He’s a Christian who attends another local church and we just clicked, you know? Putting the warped water bottle down, Preston added, He’s become both a mentor and friend.

That’s pretty awesome. So, you’re opening a restaurant here?

Preston nodded, stealing a chip off Josh’s plate. A Southern restaurant off Main Street downtown. Do you remember when I first came to win you back Bales? Bailey and Josh chuckled.

Well, I got lost on the way to your rental house. I ended up turning around in the overgrown lot of an old white house past the square. Even then, I felt a tug to the place, but didn’t know why.

Josh thought for a moment and then asked, The one located off Erwin?

Yes, that’s the one. Preston broke out into a huge grin. It called to me even before I was saved. When Mitchell mentioned the amazing restaurants your town has popping up, I knew it was the perfect location!

Bailey took a sip of water thinking of the place. It is a great spot. Plenty of parking, close to the shops downtown and lots of touristy things to do.

Exactly. I’d been praying for almost a year now about what to do with my life as a Christian businessman. Colorado Springs doesn’t feel like home anymore and now your old restaurant is doing well again with the chef you recommended... I knew I needed a change.

Josh looked at Preston, seeing the excitement in his friend’s gray eyes. Pres, why didn’t you say something sooner?

Ducking his head, Preston whispered, Fear, nervousness... fear.

What are you afraid of? Bailey’s mouth fell open. I’ve never seen this insecure side of Preston before. This isn’t like him at all.

Preston sighed. I’ve been lonely... When I see the family you’re a part of, Bales, which seems to grow every time I visit, it’s... well, it’s made me realize how empty my life has been up to this point. No real friends, my own parent’s spend little time with each other, let alone with me. I haven’t seen my younger sister in ages because she’s too busy partying... It’s become harder and harder to leave here because I feel like I belong to something special when I visit.

Bailey felt tears falling earnestly down her cheeks at Preston’s honest words. Oh, Pres. I had no idea.

Yeah, man. You never let on.

Well, in the Dyson family we don’t show our feelings or let silly things like loneliness bother us.

Standing up, Bailey moved to hug Preston. I want you to know, we’re serious about you being family, Preston. You’re the brother I’ve always wanted besides being a good friend. I’m thrilled to know EJ will be able to see you more than just on holidays.

Josh moved to stand beside his wife. It’s true. I consider you as much a brother as Jacob. Putting his arm around his wife, Josh nodded at Preston. I mean you came up with Erin Jane’s nickname and walked my wife down the aisle. I can’t imagine you not being involved in our lives. We’re both glad you’ll be calling Cartersville home.

Preston swiped at his eyes, unable to speak. Finally, he whispered, Thank you both.

The three hugged before Josh asked, What now? Need help moving next weekend?

Laughing, Preston said, I wouldn’t say no. I thought I’d get the youth group to help by bribing them with pizza. Cole said that always worked.

It will. I know Jacob and I can help, too. I’ll check with Aiden.

It’s really nice having friends and family to help. I’ve always had to pay before, strangers who just want my money.

Have you bought the restaurant, yet? Josh asked.

Yeah, that’s why I arrived early for Bale’s delivery. Another sign from God I’m doing the right thing. I signed the papers late Friday and then drove up Saturday night after meeting Mitchell that morning to set up some business stuff.

Mitchell Adams? Michael’s uncle?

Yes. Michael’s actually going to do the reno. I saw the work he did for you guys and he’ll be perfect to fix up the old house.

Bailey nodded. Yeah, Michael’s great and so is his crew.

This is pretty cool, Preston. Sounds like a lot’s already in place.

It’s one of the reasons I know this is God’s plan. I’ve NEVER had any of my business endeavors start off so smoothly. I even met the designer who will do the interior of the restaurant the same day I signed the papers. She was there to meet someone for lunch and we started talking...

God’s timing is perfect.

Amen. Preston smiled at Bailey. I’ve felt this constant happiness since I knew I really was moving to Cartersville. I’m thirty-six years old and I finally feel like I’m coming home.

Bailey reached for Preston’s hand. I’m so happy.

Josh started to speak when the baby monitor sounded a cry. "That’s

EJ. I’ll run up and check on her. Thanks Sweetie," Bailey said.

As Josh walked out of the room, Bailey asked, So, you’re all set with the location... What about a chef and manager for the restaurant?

Preston sighed. That’s the only problem. I don’t have anyone in mind. I’ve been praying about it and I know God will show me.

Oh?

I’ve been reading a lot of books about Christian leadership and management following godly principles.

You’ve always been a reader.

Smiling Preston nodded. Well, one of the things I learned was about the three-cord rope mentioned in Ecclesiastes 4:12. It’s usually applied to marriage but one of the authors, I really enjoy, talked about applying it to business. I want to hire a general manager and a chef to work with me in this restaurant. I don’t want this to be my typical business just throwing money at it and once it’s off the ground stepping back. I want to be a part of this place, known when I walk through the door by staff and customers alike.

That’s really interesting. And you have no one in mind?

No, which is frustrating because everything else about this has fallen into place. This week I’m going to put out job posts and see what turns up.

Bailey stepped over to her plate and grabbed a chip. I’ll think about it, too. I have a few ideas.

I hoped you would. I’d really love to have at least one of the other two be a Christian, able to hold me accountable and stuff.

I’ll put out feelers and let you know.

Thanks, Bales.

Movement at the door caused Bailey and Preston to turn to Josh, walking in holding his nose. Bales, how can a baby so tiny put out so much stink?

JOSH!

I know I love her, because it’s the only way I’d be able to get through the noxious fumes without passing out.

Preston chuckled before glancing at his watch. Oh, hey, guys. It’s late and we have church tomorrow.

Yes, we do. Bailey looked up at Preston and smiled. And next Sunday happens to be membership Sunday where new people can join the church!

Laughing, Preston smiled broadly at his friends. Again, God’s timing.

After hugs, Josh walked Preston to his car. "We’ll see you tomorrow.

It’s great you’ll be around."

Thanks, man.

Waving goodbye, Josh watched his friend drive away. He looked up at the starry sky and slowly started to walk inside. Lord, I don’t know what you’re up to, but I have a feeling this is just the beginning of Preston’s journey in Cartersville. Guide him and bring the right people into his life to help with this new business venture.

Josh knew this would be the first of the many prayers for Preston. He and Bailey would continue to pray for their friend and wisdom for this new adventure.

Chapter Two

April 2015

Thank you, Sharon. I can take over so you can grab lunch now.

Sharon looked over at the woman speaking and smiled. "Not a problem, Tara. I didn’t mind pushing back my lunch hour to help