Simple Lessons

By Penny Harris Smith

Dale and Sharon McKinney’s marriage has weathered the storm.  They are more committed than ever to each other and their faith.  Faced with the challenge of a major lifestyle change, Sharon meets Ruben Daniels and his daughters at a park.   Both suspect their timing was not a coincident.  Dale and Sharon reach out t

• Language: English
• Publisher: Penny Harris Smith
• Release date: Apr 20, 2017
• ISBN: 9780967749044

Penny Harris Smith

Penny Harris Smith is a graduate of Southern Methodist University and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She writes inspirational fiction to cast God's see on fertile ground. Simple Lessons is her second novel.

Book preview

Chapter 1

The small television on top of the refrigerator hummed in the background, replaying the news. Sharon McKinney sat at the breakfast counter, sipping her coffee and waiting for the caffeine to migrate from her stomach to her brain. Between sips, she gazed out the kitchen window and watched as darkness yielded to the rising sun. Mornings, once the most dreaded and stressful time of her days, were now cherished and savored.

The positive effects of the change were obvious even to Sharon. Calmness replaced the frenzied state, which had become her norm. Even her outward appearance seemed to change. Her chiseled facial features appeared softer, devoid of the furrowed brows, and her skin acquired a rich bronze tone attributed to spending more time in the summer sunshine. Retrieving the olive green journal, she opened it to the first page and read the entry that had been reluctantly written.

Monday, August 18th‌—‌I’m starting this journal because I read that keeping one is therapeutic when you’re going through a major life change. It’s been four months since I quit my job. After all the times I talked about women who didn’t work, look at me now! I feel like a killer whale that’s been raised in captivity, suddenly set free and expected to know instinctively what to do. At least, released animals have someone to help them with the transition. Dale’s so certain we’re doing the right thing. In my heart, I agree. So why do I feel like this? Dale and I are having more philosophical discussions lately in a conscious effort to talk about subjects other than work and the kids. He believes that a person’s spiritual growth depends on the amount of time they spend with God and the effort they put into learning His Word. That probably explains my current condition. I’ve never had enough time to do either.

Since he’s been reading the Bible, Dale’s a much different person and the change is definitely for the better. At first, I thought his fascination with the Bible would be short-lived. Now, I’m not so sure. I’m going to give this Bible thing a try. The book of Proverbs, the only part of the Bible that makes any sense to me right now, says that we need knowledge, understanding and wisdom. Despite two college degrees, I’m sorely deficient in all of these. Every day, I’m learning how much I don’t know. At least, I think that I finally have my priorities straight. My first goal is to find out what living according to God’s Word really means. I guess I should start by finding out what’s even in the Bible and what’s not. I do know that Jesus said, Ask and you will receive, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened. I’m asking. I’m seeking. I’m knocking. God please, hear me!

Sharon closed her journal. As she put it back on the counter, her eyes drifted to the calendar on the refrigerator door, surrounded by photographs from the summer. Bright crimson X’s counted down the days until school resumed. Six squares remained between the last X and the big smiling face. Although Sharon was trying to persuade her children to be excited about the start of another school year, she also had mixed feelings. This was the first summer that her family actually had a break from their routine of leaving the house by seven in the morning and returning in the evening after six, exhausted and irritable. Her children’s return to school would mark the first time in her life when external forces did not dictate the allotment of her time‌—‌no parents, no school work, and no project or management deadlines. She was heading into unfamiliar territory with no guidebook or instruction manual.

Like clockwork, her husband, Dale, descended the stairs. His firm, evenly paced steps signaled the start of the weather segment. Sharon looked at the clock to confirm what she already knew. It was exactly six-fifteen. Dale was very methodical in everything he did. He walked past Sharon pausing just long enough to give her a kiss. So how are you adjusting to getting up early again?

It’s harder than I thought it would be but I’ll survive.

Do you have a full day planned?

Sharon picked up her coffee mug and cradled it in her hands. Her definition of a full day had definitely been changed. Not really. The kids and I are just going to run a few errands and make the most of what’s left of our summer. Do you need us to pick up anything for you?

No, but don’t forget to make the deposit. I already put the check in the mail.

I promise not to forget, Sharon said, before raising the mug to her lips.

Dale walked to the cabinet to get his travel mug, giving Sharon an unobstructed view of his six-foot-three inch frame. He was still as handsome as the day he introduced himself to her after the university’s student senate meeting. He had been president and she was a representative from her dorm. When he walked into the meeting, his presence captured the attention of everyone, especially Sharon who appreciated his attention to detail. His clothes were crisp and well-fitting, his thick dark hair looked like he had just left the barbershop and his mustache, which canopied his upper lip, was meticulously trimmed.

The description her college roommate used for Dale was tall, dark and handsome. Although his outward appearance was what initially caught her attention, she fell in love with the total man. She admired the way he still turned heads when he walked into a room. Have I told you lately how handsome you are?

Dale smiled as he filled his mug. No, but it’s nice to know you still think so. Do the kids have what they need for school?

We need to pick up a few more school supplies, but it will be a while before I even consider buying fall clothes. At the rate our children are growing, if we bought clothes now, they would be too small before it was cold enough to wear them.

Dale poured some creamer into his coffee. Did I tell you Kevin called me yesterday?

No. How’s he doing?

He lost his job.

Sharon frowned. I’m sorry to hear that. Has he found something else yet?

No. He called to see if I knew of any positions. Dale paused. He mentioned something else…

What?

He and Marilyn have separated.

You’re joking. They seemed so happy the last time we saw them. Wasn’t that only two months ago?

Unfortunately, things weren’t as perfect as they seemed.

Sharon looked at the television. Who messed up?

I’m not sure. He didn’t volunteer that information and I didn’t ask. He just said that he’s living somewhere else.

I can just imagine how their daughter’s taking that.

Dale dropped two sugar cubes into his coffee. I’m sure it’s difficult for the entire family. Do you need a refill?

Sharon handed Dale her mug. Do you think it’s someone he works with?

Dale emptied the contents of the coffeepot into Sharon’s mug and placed it in front of her. Why do you always assume it’s the man who’s unfaithful?

Because usually it is, Sharon retorted. Let’s invite them over. Maybe we can help them work things out.

Dale unplugged the coffee maker. I don’t think so.

Well, we can’t just sit around and watch everyone we know get divorced. It’s spreading like an epidemic.

Sharon, I don’t want to see another marriage end either, but we’re not marriage counselors. Besides, most people wouldn’t believe what worked for us anyway.

Why not? Sharon challenged, not satisfied with his answer.

Dale sensed her emotions surging and knew to tread carefully. It will seem too simple. The more educated we become, the more complicated we make our lives. Do you remember how you felt? We didn’t even think it would work. We only tried it out of desperation and as a last resort.

But it did work for us and it could work for them too. Her nostrils flared as she spoke. Remember that saying during slavery‌—‌those who get their freedom have a responsibility to go back and help someone else to freedom. You were just telling me last week about how we’re supposed to be a light in the world.

Dale looked at his watch. Okay, Sharon. I’ll call Kevin and schedule lunch. You can get together with Marilyn separately, but don’t get your hopes up. Once the line is drawn, it usually takes a miracle to erase it.

Maybe, we’ll be the source of a miracle.

Maybe. I wish I could stay and talk longer but I really need to be going.

Sharon stood up and met Dale. They embraced like young lovers, savoring the closeness of their bodies. She breathed in his scent. Honey, you know how passionate I get when I believe that I’m right.

Dale chuckled. Boy, do I know. He squeezed her tightly and kissed her softly on the lips. Have a great day with the kids. I’ll give you a call later.

Watching him leave, Sharon said a silent prayer of thanks.

~

Daddy, Daddy, watch me!

Ruben looked up abruptly to see his daughter, Bridget, traversing the bars; her younger sister following perilously close. Watch out for your sister! Ruben watched the lopsided ponytails swinging in the air and wondered if he would ever master the art of combing his daughters’ hair. Let’s go girls.

Just a few more minutes, Bridget yelled, as she fell to the ground and ran away without waiting for a reply.

Okay, but we need to leave soon.

Both girls took off running toward the swings. As Ruben sat on the park bench and watched his daughters, he tried to suppress the emotions which were making him physically sick. He ran his hand across his tightly curled hair that formed rows of dark waves. His face had a boyish charm, despite his extreme athletic build which stressed the seams of his pants. Even without smiling, deep dimples seemed to be etched in his cheeks and his face was devoid of facial hair. Perfectly aligned, pearly teeth hid behind his warm brown lips. His dark eyes matched his smooth chocolate complexion and reflected the depth of his emotions.

His decision’s impact on his daughters weighed heavily on his heart. He knew initially, the change would be difficult, but he had no intention of leaving his daughters, just his marriage. His vow to never end up like his father freshly renewed. Looking at Bridget, whose features were identical to his wife’s, Ruben knew that even if his marriage ended, he would never be able to forget Karly. Likewise, she would forever see him in their younger daughter, Chloe.

Since losing his job four months ago, Ruben had sent out over a hundred letters and meticulously pursued every lead. With the passing of each day, he felt himself sinking further and further into a depression from which even his daughters could not summons him. Yesterday, he finally received a viable offer. Knowing that Karly would not be excited about it, he waited until this morning to discuss it with her. His faint optimism had been crushed by their conversation. Sitting on a park bench six hours later, he finally accepted that there was nothing left in his marriage.

Ruben inhaled and exhaled deeply trying to release the surge of negative emotions. The sound of loud grunts and the thump of a ball being lobbed back and forth drew his attention to the tennis courts. Two men were playing on the nearest court. A foursome of seniors was playing mixed doubles on the far court. The irony of the situation overwhelmed him. One match reminded Ruben of his deepest desire that now seemed impossible. The other match represented his painful reality. Ruben watched with intrigue the differences between the matches.

The group playing doubles was obviously enjoying themselves. The single’s match was grueling. Ruben mused at how each player continued to attack his opponent’s weaknesses, much to the frustration of both players. He could tell the men had played each other before because of the intensity of the match. They played so aggressively that Ruben wondered if they even liked each other.

Closing his eyes, Ruben imagined him and Karly in a tennis match. They walked onto the court together and went to different sides of the net. Their match started with civil volleys but the level of play had intensified over the years. Ruben knew he and Karly were both in agony. No longer having the energy or desire to continue the endless competition, Ruben was ready to admit defeat and end the game.

As if reinforcing his thoughts, Ruben opened his eyes and watched the exhausted men put their rackets in covers, pick up their bags and walk off the court. He visualized he and Karly doing the same except arguing about who would get the can of balls. Ruben returned his attention to his daughters, fearing Karly would never give them up without a fight. His first priority would be to set up his new home.

~

Karly’s mind raced as she stared out the window of her corner office trying to absorb the information that was ceremoniously revealed in the management team meeting. Against the wall of windows, her petite frame seemed almost childlike. Even the tranquil view of the cascading ponds surrounded by the picturesque landscaping failed to displace the sense of foreboding that overshadowed her. She turned and surveyed her executive office that accompanied her promotion. She had expected the promotion to be the elusive piece of the puzzle that would make her life complete and silence the voices. All her sacrifices and laboring had finally paid off. She was the first African-American, female director and one of the highest ranking minorities in the company. All eyes were on her, some hoping for her success, while others anticipating her failure. It seemed that both groups were winning.

The buzz of the intercom jolted Karly back to reality. She walked to her desk and abruptly pressed the speakerphone button. Yes.

Her assistant hesitantly responded. Karly, I know you asked not to be disturbed, but Julia’s here. Can she come in, or would you prefer I put her on your schedule for later today?

Send her in, but cancel my other appointments for the afternoon. Dave wants to meet with me at two.

Relieved that Julia had eliminated the need for a call, Karly glared at the reorganization plan on her desk. Julia, the Operations Analyst for Karly’s division, was the only person in the company she trusted. While working long hours to make the division profitable, they had developed a rare friendship. Julia, a divorced mother of three, was ten years older than Karly and had recently celebrated her twentieth anniversary with the company. Initially upset about being passed over for the promotion, Julia understood why the decision was made after her first meeting with Karly and strived tirelessly to ensure their division’s success.

Julia sashayed into the office; a mosaic of color draped her body and seemed to float slightly behind her. She wedged her body into one of the winged back chairs facing the mahogany desk. WELL…is it true? The rumor mills are churning wildly.

The stark contrasts of the two women facing each other were apparent both internally and externally. Julia’s cocoa complexion, plump body, close cropped natural hair and her analytical, high energy style was the polar opposite of Karly’s creamy skin, petite body, relaxed shoulder length hair and intuitive, self-controlled demeanor. But like thick hot fudge poured over a solid scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream, the two were an intensely effective and complementary duo.

Karly’s rigid demeanor softened in Julia’s warming presence. That depends on what you’ve heard.

That they’re getting rid of our division.

It’s true, Karly said, as she flipped through the report, looking for the proposed reorganization chart.

But we’re one of the few divisions turning a profit. We worked relentlessly to turn this division around, Julia said, with a look of disdain.

Apparently, we did our jobs too well. Karly handed her the chart with their division highlighted in red.

Julia looked at the graphic. But why sell a division that’s bringing in income?

Why else these days? Karly sighed. …to send a strong signal to the market to elevate our stock price.

I thought that’s what the last reorganization was supposed to accomplish.

Evidently, the analysts aren’t convinced that we’re aggressive enough. So management believes we need to make some strategic acquisitions. Unfortunately, in order to buy, they need cash, which is why the prize bull’s now on the auction block.

Julia frowned. You’ve got to be kidding.

To make matters worse, I have the pleasure of announcing that everyone in this division is fenced in.

Which means?

No one can transfer to another division. Even transfers that were in progress have been put on hold. But if I were you, I’d make sure my resume is current.

Julia handed the report back to Karly. Are you saying the only way out of this division is to leave the company?

Yes.

Julia shook her head. They know most of us won’t leave because of our benefits.

Precisely‌—‌the golden handcuffs.

Will you get a new position after the sale?

Oh, that’s the best part. I’m for sale, too. Karly’s stomach churned as the words left her mouth.

So, what are you going to do?

Continue to keep the division profitable and hope we end up with a better owner. Dave and I are meeting at two o’clock to discuss the divestiture process.

Have you had a chance to tell Ruben?

No! And I’m not going to. We had an argument this morning, and this won’t help my case. He received a job offer yesterday.

That’s great. Is it what he wants?

It’s exactly what he wants.

So, why aren’t you happy?

The job’s in Minneapolis!

OH!

When he told me about the offer, I thought he was joking; which started a heated discussion about careers. I finally told him that I didn’t care what he did, but I had worked too hard to get to this level, and I wasn’t going to throw it all away. Besides, the salary doesn’t even compare to mine. I can’t believe he would even consider accepting it. Karly stood up and walked to the window. To be honest, I was hoping that he wouldn’t even find another job. This summer has been so much easier with him not working. I didn’t have to worry about dragging the girls out of bed before sunrise and shuttling them to summer camps. Karly turned and looked at Julia. He knows I make more than enough money for the family. Why can’t he just be content not working?

Karly, some men can’t handle being supported by a woman. It makes them feel inadequate. Is he going to turn down the offer?

I don’t know and really don’t care.

Karly, you don’t mean that.

Oh yes, I do. Maybe this is a sign that it’s time to end my marriage.

Have you told him this?

I don’t think I have to. Based on the look he gave me this morning, he’s had enough too. Karly cringed remembering the anguish in Ruben’s eyes when he stormed out of their bedroom. I’m thinking about contacting a divorce lawyer. Karly walked to her desk and sat on the edge facing Julia.

Aren’t you rushing it? Did Ruben say anything about divorce?

No, but I have more assets in this marriage, so I think it’s in my best interest to be prepared.

Karly, you’re always prepared. But getting lawyers involved is something you should carefully consider. It’s in their best interest to end your marriage and the messier it gets; the more lucrative it is for them. Julia shifted her weight in the chair. I’m on the outside looking in, but from what I can tell, Ruben’s a good man and that’s hard to find these days.

I never said he wasn’t. But each day, I’m more convinced we’d both be better off not married to each other. I can’t be the wife he wants and I don’t need him to take care of me or my daughters.

Just do me a favor and don’t rush into anything. Julia stood up. I’d better let you get ready for your meeting with Dave. Do you want to get together tomorrow morning and review the agenda for the Strategic Planning Meeting? Given the current situation, it may need some changes. She waited for a response, concerned for her friend.

Sure. Karly flipped through several screens on her personal organizer. Is eight too early? The rest of my day is booked.

That’s fine. I’ll even bring some pastries. There’s nothing like a little sugar and fat to help work through problems. As Julia closed the door behind her, she hoped that Karly would not close the door on her marriage; a decision Julia had regretted for the past five years.

~

As Sharon drove to the bank, a sudden jarring of her seat and the piercing squeal of her daughter’s voice halted the endless stream of thoughts.

MOMMY! MOMMY! I see Jesus.

Paige, stop pulling on the seat. I’m trying to drive and you shouldn’t joke about seeing Jesus.

I’m not joking, Mommy. I really see Jesus.

Mom, I see it too. Her son chimed in equally excited.

Sharon nervously looked at the sky in front of her. Where?

Over there, Mom. They pointed, excitedly. Do you see it?

No, where is He?

Right there. Do you see it?

Momentarily ignoring that she was traveling on a busy street, Sharon diverted her eyes from the road to look in the direction her children were pointing. Finally, she saw. Her eyes returned to the road, just in time to slam her brakes and avoid rear-ending a car which had stopped for a red light. Her children had indeed seen Jesus and she had too. His name was in large white letters on a green billboard. Sharon looked at the bill board again and smiled as she waited for the light to change. Guys, you really had mommy scared. I thought you really saw Jesus.

We did see Jesus, Mommy, Paige said with obvious delight.

You saw Jesus’ name. That’s very different from seeing Jesus. Sharon realized that her heart was still pounding.

Shawn looked at his mother’s reflection in the rearview mirror. Mom, why were you scared? Shouldn’t we be happy to see Jesus when He comes again?

Yes, we should. That was silly of me, wasn’t it?

I can’t wait to tell Daddy that we saw Jesus, Paige said.

Make sure you tell Dad it was HIS name on a billboard, Sharon said as she pulled into the bank parking lot.

While waiting in the drive-through lane, she looked at the clock; her reaction to the possibility of seeing Jesus still haunting her. Heat waves rose from the asphalt, which prompted her to check the temperature gauge. The unexpected work on the van’s cooling system had necessitated the trip to the bank to transfer money from their savings to their checking account. Despite constantly juggling their finances, she knew the wellbeing of her family was worth the extra effort.

Mom, will you tell Paige to stop singing? Shawn yelled from the rear of the van.

Mommy, I’m not doing anything to him. Paige folded her arms across her chest and glared at her brother.

You’re making me listen to your horrible singing. Shawn kicked the back of the seat, on the side his sister was sitting.

My singing is not horrible. And anyway, Mommy says if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all. Right, Mommy?

That’s right, Paige. However, you’re singing too loud for the car. Can you sing a little softer? And Shawn, you need to learn to block out distractions. The world won’t be quiet just because you want it to. Now, unless you both want to go straight home, I suggest you try to get along. This shouldn’t take much longer.

Sharon smiled, thinking about how much her life had changed in some ways but stayed the same in others. Sibling rivalry simply took the place of departmental ones, but the same tactics worked. When Sharon opened her window to retrieve the bank carrier, the stifling summer heat engulfed the cool air, convincing her that thirty minutes at the park would be long enough.

As soon as Sharon turned into the park, she spotted a shaded parking place near the picnic tables. Before the van stopped completely, she heard the clicking of seatbelts being unfastened. Slow down… At least, let me stop the van.

Shawn opened the door and prepared to run off.

Shawn, wait for Paige.

Mom, she’s too slow.

Go ahead, Sharon said, as she grabbed their cooler and opened her car door.

Mommy, will you swing with me? Paige asked.

Sharon looked at the swings and was thrilled to see two brown-skinned girls swinging. Look honey, some other little girls are on the swings. Why don’t you go play with them?

Mommy, will you come with me?

Sharon slid her purse under the driver’ seat and locked the doors. Of course. Let’s put our things on the table first.

After putting the cooler on a table, Sharon and Paige walked toward the swings.

Shawn, who was hanging on the monkey bars, jumped down and joined his mother and sister. Mom, do you want to watch me go across the monkey bars?

In a minute. Paige’s going to meet the girls on the swings. Do you want to come with us?

Okay, but then will you watch me?

Yes, I will, Sharon said as she walked her children to the edge of the swings.

Bridget slowed her swing and looked cautiously at them.

Sensing her reservations, Sharon spoke first. Hello. This is Paige and Shawn. Paige was hoping she could play with you.

Sure. I’m Bridget. Chloe, come here.

Chloe followed her sister’s command and joined the group.

Let’s go play on the monkey bars, Shawn commanded, as the self-appointed leader.

Shawn and Bridget ran off.

Mommy, I wanted to swing, Paige said looking at Sharon. Well honey, maybe Chloe will stay and swing with you?

Chloe smiled. I wasn’t finished swinging anyway. She looked at Paige. Which swing do you want?

Paige walked away from Sharon with a matching smile. You can pick first.

Chloe, is your Mom here? I’d like to say hello.

No, she’s at work, but my Daddy’s over there, Chloe said waving and pointing to a man sitting on a bench.

Sharon turned and saw Ruben watching her. Oh…Paige, I’m going to say hello to Chloe’s dad then I’ll be at the table. Okay?

Okay, Mommy.

Sharon walked towards Ruben wondering why she had not noticed him earlier.

When Shawn sprinted across the park, Ruben looked to see who he was with. He was delighted to see Sharon and her daughter, who appeared to be the same age as Chloe. It seemed uncanny that his daughters would finally meet new friends when summer was almost over. As Sharon got closer, Ruben thought she looked familiar.

Hi. It looks like our kids are getting along well, Sharon said, stopping to the left of Ruben to avoid obstructing his view. I’m Sharon McKinney.

Ruben stood up and extended his hand. Ruben Daniels.

Sharon shook his hand, slightly surprised by the gentle voice. You have two very polite daughters.

Ruben was certain they had not met before. Thank you.

You’re blessed to be able to spend an afternoon at the park with them.

Unfortunately, it’s a blessing in disguise. I’m between jobs.

Let me guess, corporate downsizing?

In a way, Ruben replied. The company I worked for merged with a competitor, creating a duplication of resources. Sounds like you’re familiar with corporate America. What does your husband do?

He’s in marketing for Business Systems, but I speak from first-hand experience. I worked for Universal Products until a few months ago.

In marketing?

No, manufacturing.

Were you packaged? Ruben inquired.

I wish. Have you ever noticed the people who want to get forced out never are? Anyway, I decided that the price I was paying was too high, so now I’m a full-time wife and mother.

The price?

You know…my soul, sanity, family. I realized that what I was sacrificing could not be replaced by money, regardless of how much. So now, instead of management team meetings, I get to spend much more time on my two most important projects.

Sounds very insightful. I hear more women are doing that.

Unfortunately, none that I know. All my friends are still climbing the corporate ladder.

I commend you. I can’t imagine Karly, my wife, choosing to stay home with the girls. Her career is important to her, almost too important.

Ruben looked at the ground as he said the words.

Sharon knew to change the subject. How’s the job search going?

Times have changed. I never expected to be unemployed this long, but yesterday I received a great offer.

That’s wonderful. Congratulations.

Thanks, but there’s one drawback. It requires relocation which is not ideal.

One thing I’ve learned recently is that you shouldn’t settle for something if it doesn’t feel right or you have doubts. Have you tried Universal? They’re always hiring in sales.

I sent them a resume and received one of those ‘don’t call us, we’ll call you’ form letters.

Your information is probably lost in the system. Do you have a card? I can call the personnel manager and have him call you.

Ruben took out his wallet, retrieved a business card and handed it to Sharon. You don’t have to do this. You just met me.

She looked at it closely. I know, Ruben Daniels. I want to. Sharon sat on the bench still holding the card in her hand. Ruben returned to his seat. Ruben, I don’t believe in coincidences, so we were supposed to meet. I don’t know why, but let’s see what happens. Sharon put Ruben’s business card in her pocket just as their children, led by Shawn, ran over to the bench.

Mom, can Chloe and Bridget have a snack with us? Shawn asked standing directly in front of Sharon.

If it’s okay with their dad? Sharon looked at Ruben.

Girls, we really need to be going. Ruben stood up.

Chloe grabbed his hand. Please, Daddy.

Do you have enough? Ruben asked, hesitant to leave also.

We always bring extra, just in case. Sharon walked beside Ruben, as they followed their children to the picnic table.

Chapter 2

Dale slipped his arms around Sharon’s waist and nuzzled her neck. A warm sensation pulsated through her body. At that instant, she reminisced on the days they could act impulsively on their desires. Dale shared her thoughts as he continued placing kisses intended solely to stoke the fire. Gone were the days of spontaneous combustion. Now kindling was used and they took turns adding fuel until it was roaring. The pots on the burner were soon forgotten as Sharon leaned her head against his chest, relishing the moment and the mounting intensity.

Dale turned her around to face him and kissed her on the forehead. How did I get so lucky?

Luck has nothing to do with this. Somebody must have been praying extremely hard for you, Sharon responded with a smile. We’re so blessed. I’m just thankful God got our attention before we threw it all away.

He pulled her closer. Me too. Marrying you was the smartest thing I ever did.

Sharon kissed him passionately before reluctantly pulling away, anticipating an early bedtime for their kids. Now, will you please let me finish cooking before I burn something? Sharon shifted her attention back to the pots simmering on the stove. What time did you tell Ruben to be here?

Dale pretended to look offended. Four o’clock. Do you need help with anything?

Nope. Everything’s under control.

It smells delicious. Dale sat at the center island. What are you cooking?

What do I always cook when we have guest with children?

Let me guess. Dale dramatically sniffed the air. We’re having spaghetti, corn, salad, dinner rolls, punch and chocolate chip cookies for dessert. How’d I do?

Wrong. We’re having lemon pound cake for dessert. Sharon walked to him and put her hands on his shoulders. Thanks for calling Ruben and helping him get the interview. He seems like a nice person.

I enjoyed having lunch with him. Although, I think he was surprised by my call. Dale took some peanuts out of the dish on the counter. Did you know that he played football in college?

I figured he played something based on his build.

And what are you doing noticing another man’s build?

I may be married, but I’m not blind. Can you honestly tell me that you don’t notice other women?

I do notice, but I haven’t found one that can compare to you.

Good answer, Sharon said as she kissed Dale and went to the refrigerator for the salad ingredients.

The phone rang.

I’ll get it. Dale followed the ringing sound to the cordless phone. Hello…Hello, Mrs. Johnson…I’m doing just fine…Let me see if she can come to the phone. Dale held his hand over the mouthpiece. Should I tell your mother you’ll call her back?

No, I’ll take it. Sharon put the salad ingredients on the counter and cradled the phone against her cheek with her shoulder. Hi, Mom.

Sharon, if you’re busy, I can call you back.

I’m cooking, but can talk.

Well, I won’t keep you long. I just wanted to let you know that Mrs. Williams passed.

Sharon tried to recall who her mother was referring to as she washed the lettuce. Mom, I’m sorry to hear that. Sharon was concerned for her mother. The calls to announce the departure of a friend were becoming more frequent.

Grace’s taking it pretty hard. Maybe you could call her, her mother continued with a noticeably wavering voice.

With sudden awareness, Sharon froze. Who’s taking care of Grace?

They hired someone a while back. Mrs. Williams hadn’t been able to do much for some time now. You know she had cancer.

No, I didn’t know that. I’ll give Grace a call. Can you hold while I get some paper to write her number down?

It sounds like you’re busy. I’ll call you back.

Sharon dried her hands. Thanks, but I’ll call you.

Sharon, now that Paige’s starting kindergarten, do you think you’ll be going back to work?

Sharon stiffened. Mom, I AM working.

That’s great. When did you go back?

Mom, I’m working to take care of my family. I’d better finish cooking. I’ll call you tomorrow to get Grace’s number. Thanks for letting me know.

I love you, Sharon.

I love you, too. Sharon hung up the phone and leaned against the counter.

Dale stood up and turned off the television. Kids, go upstairs and make sure your rooms are clean before our guests arrive.

Dad, no one’s going in my room, Shawn spouted.

"I might, so make sure it’s extra clean. And don’t just push everything