Robin’s Gift

By Crystal MM Huntley

Natalie grew up in a troubled home. Trying to escape the horrors of her past, she fled from all she knew and attempted to start a new life. Shrouded in anonymity, she believed she had escaped her demons. Years later, Natalie embarks on a path that will challenge her deeply. With the courage to face her past, she discovers the hope of a new beginning. This modern twist on the Biblical story of the Prodigal Son invites readers to follow Natalie on a divine journey of self-discovery as she learns that, though her past may be filled with regret, God's grace can always bring healing and peace.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Feb 12, 2024
• ISBN: 9798823021944

Crystal MM Huntley

Crystal MM Huntley grew up in an abusive home like far too many among us. Not wanting to pass that misfortune onto her children, Crystal began her healing journey when their precious lives motivated an intense determination within her to break the chains of abuse. The therapeutic traits of journaling became a large part of her healing efforts, and through that exercise, Crystal developed a passion for writing. Crystal has been writing for over 20 years. During that timeframe, she has taken numerous writing courses, studied under many successful authors, and attended several writers' conferences, most through American Christian Fiction Writers and Called to Write. She became a member of a national writers group, attended monthly regional meetings, and taught various writing classes, including ones through a local summer-school program and other workshops. Crystal writes passionately on issues close to her heart, using her experiences. She writes with the desire that her words will help others who also have been wounded by abuse to find their way toward healing. Crystal resides in the pristine northern woods of Michigan with the love of her life and their precious Westie. Together they enjoy the abundant wildlife around them that serves as daily entertainment.

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© 2024 Crystal MM Huntley. 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.

Published by AuthorHouse 02/12/2024

ISBN: 979-8-8230-2195-1 (sc)

ISBN: 979-8-8230-2193-7 (hc)

ISBN: 979-8-8230-2194-4 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2024902904

Edited by Eric Rodammer

Cover photo by Debra Lawrence www.abundantmoments.com

Contact the author at www.crystalmmhuntley.com

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.

Scripture Verse

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Matt 10: 29-31, (NIV)

CONTENTS

Author’s Note to Readers

Dedication

Acknowledgements

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Chapter Twenty-Eight

Chapter Twenty-Nine

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Three

Chapter Thirty-Four

Chapter Thirty-Five

Chapter Thirty-Six

Chapter Thirty-Seven

Chapter Thirty-Eight

Chapter Thirty-Nine

Chapter Forty

Chapter Forty-One

Chapter Forty-Two

Chapter Forty-Three

Chapter Forty-Four

Chapter Forty-Five

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AUTHOR’S NOTE TO READERS

Robin’s Gift places a modern twist on the Biblical story of the Prodigal Son. With everlasting love and perfect grace, our Savior welcomes His children home by gently prodding them toward the blessed life our Lord created especially for them. A spark of our Savor’s love resides within the hearts of each one of us. This spark acts like a torch to light the way home for any wayward soul. Sometimes, we need to surrender to be happy. You still have time if you wish to use it. Grab your opportunities before they slip away. Choose to submit and open your heart to what God has waiting for you.

Regardless of our pasts, God’s grace reaches out to us, offering forgiveness. I pray Robin’s Gift helps all those who read it to gain courage and accept our Savior’s eternal blessings. "You are far more valuable than you realize. Remember—God is your beauty mark."

DEDICATION

In loving memory, I dedicate Robin’s Gift to Cathy (Aug 2, 1964 – Dec 15, 2001) and her baby daughter, Julie (May 3, 2001 – Dec 15, 2001). Heaven received a blessed gift the day God called you both home. You treated me as your sister and never let go of me, even after I disappeared. I miss you so much and love you dearly. Someday, I know we will be reunited.

I also dedicate this book to Phil. Thank you for making Cathy’s dreams come true. I pray she left you with a lifetime of love to carry you through whatever the future may dish out. I know you have your very own personal heavenly angel watching over you. You were her charming prince.

To Kim, Marty, and Steve, the three of you and Cathy provided me a safe space that fed that homing beacon within my heart.

And this dedication would not be complete without also honoring Diane, who helped teach me what it means to have a root family. Our trio would be lacking without you.

All your priceless gifts combined helped bring me home to my God.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Firstly, I give praise to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Your abiding love lifted me out of the fire, carried me through burning-hot embers, and brought me safely home to Your embrace. I place all glory onto You. Through You alone, all things are possible. You are the salve to my wounded heart and the only provider of abiding Peace. You erased that long-lived ache to belong and replaced it with a healing grace that welcomes me as one of Your honored family. You turned all my past wounds into Your beauty marks. Only through the strength of Jesus Christ did I gain the courage and skills to write this book. I pray it blesses all who read it.

To Cathy and Diane. Your forever friendship inspired me to formulate prominent characters within this book. True friends are treasures from Heaven. I will always consider you both my true friends.

To Rich, my best friend and love of my life, second only to Christ. You are my safe space, providing fertile ground for my roots to spread so I can finally fully bloom. Without your enduring love and support, I could not have fulfilled my dream of becoming a published author, now for the second time. Thank you for the endless hours you sacrificed as I buried my nose in my computer to perfect every word and paragraph. I also thank you for your attentive patience with my daily chitchat while verbally formatting my thought process.

I extend heartfelt thanks to my youngest son, Ben, a fire captain paramedic, and to my cousin Riley, a young up-and-coming hero. Your shared knowledge and expertise in providing me with accurate information proved invaluable when writing a delicate section of this book.

To Debra Lawrance, a longtime friend, and talented photographer, www.abundantmoments.com. Thank you for producing the perfect book cover that captures the heart of this story.

I am so blessed to have Eric Rodammer as my editor and nephew. Thank you for sharing your talents to help me polish my writing so I publish quality books. Again, it has been a pleasure and honor to work with you. Your honed skills point toward a flourishing future career that is a privilege to be a part of.

CHAPTER ONE

Robin

Wolfhead Lake,

Robin gazed into her infant’s eyes, absorbed by a cobalt blue so dark that Abigail’s irises dissolved into the edges of her miniature pupils. Secrets to untold mysteries swarm within those oval spheres. Only the eyes of a newborn baby contain such deep, vivid colors that shine like direct windows to God’s holy realm. Are all babies like this? She fastened the Velcro tab on Abigail’s diaper. There you go, little one, nice and dry.

Abbie rewarded her mother with a broad smile followed by a playful gurgle.

With great agility, Robin redressed her firstborn in a clean outfit. My darling angel, what unfound secrets are you hiding? She laughed—the red and white fleece made Abbie resemble a tiny elf.

Honeyyy, I’m home! Melody’s jokester voice rang through the apartment.

Robin shook her head at the high level of familiarity that time had awarded to her best friend. Come on in, Mel. I’m changing Abigail. I’ll be right out.

Robin clipped a mini bow to a lock of Abbie’s silky, fine hair. It looks like your Auntie Mel has come for a visit. She scooped Abbie into her arms and carried her out of the nursery. Clad in baggie sweats, Robin paused in the kitchen archway.

A cool breeze swept through the door held ajar by Melody, chilling Robin’s exposed toes. Aurora and Cody darted under their mother’s outstretched arm. Auntie Robin, you have got to see what we just got! Their dual voices tumbled over each other.

Melody grasped the scruff of her youngest children’s collars. Whoa, you two. Not another step till those boots come off. She gave one final kick on the threshold, knocking off the last flakes of lingering snow, and stepped inside.

"Awe, Mom, they’re not that wet. Cody stomped his foot against the linoleum. These are awesome! I want Auntie Robin to see my new boots."

"They will look just as nifty placed on that mat as they do on your feet. Now off with them."

Cody pressed his lips tightly together, then plopped to the floor. With one solid stare at his older sister Aurora, he communicated a desire for assistance. She answered with a smile and tugged the shiny nautical-red boots off his pint-sized feet, placing them in the corner beside her pair—tan faux suede with fuzzy cuffs.

Amused, Robin watched the scene unfold as she cradled a cooing Abigail. Hey, kids, you two act extremely excited.

Aurora and Cody clambered toward Robin in stocking-covered feet. They clung to her arm and tugged her toward the entry mat.

You have got to see what Mom just bought us! Aurora’s eyes sparkled as she pleaded.

Yeah, come on. Cody’s voice rang with excitement.

Melody shook her head. A look of annoyance overshadowed her face. All right, kids, slow down and give Robin room. She stretched her arms toward her friend. Here, let me take Abbie. It is obvious my children want your undivided attention.

Robin chuckled as she handed over her infant. Abbie snuggled into Melody’s grasp. Such an angel, I could eat her up. Just seeing her almost makes me want another one. Melody nuzzled her nose over Abbie’s forehead.

Robin’s dark-brown eyes peered up from her prized position on the floor between the two children, a new boot held in each hand. What, you mean five isn’t enough? A mischievous twinkle glinted off her words.

"I did say almost." Melody smiled at her two youngest offspring. Both mirrored her large-framed build and fair-colored hair persona.

Robin ran her finger over the soft fuzz on the cuff of Aurora’s boot. The child-sized item recharged an urge she had not suppressed since high school. It had surged with even greater intensity since her marriage to Eric three years ago. Back then, Melody had made it clear she thought Robin’s endeavor was a hopeless fantasy. With Abigail born, Robin’s longing grew with even greater passion. A snicker snuck through her sealed lips.

What’s so funny? Melody turned toward her friend.

Remember back around our grade-school years when we went sledding with Natalie? The snow was so deep her legs disappeared when she slipped into the bank. Robin emptied her dainty hands.

Melody chuckled. It took both of us to pull her out. Once she came free, her foot was minus a boot.

We dug till dusk for that boot but never uncovered it.

Abbie squirmed. A fuss rolled from her chest. Melody glimmered at the infant cradled in her arms. And this is why five is enough. I think your little angel wants her mother.

Robin stood up and retrieved Abigail. She clutched her precious child as instinctive swaying overtook her stance. Did Natalie ever find the boot?

I don’t believe so. I recall Natalie saying that she might have to wait till spring to get it back. If I remember right, once the snow had melted, we saw no sign of it. Melody paused her animated talk. She shot a quizzical stare toward Robin. Oh, no. . . . You’re not thinking we should try again, are you?

A tad sheepish, Robin nodded.

Around the corner from the kid’s view, Butter groomed his yellow-striped fur. He lowered his padded paw and slinked through the room. The bronze bell on his collar tinkled. Cody snatched up the feline, whose ears instantly pulled back while his tail flicked.

Cody. Put the cat down! It is obvious he does not enjoy your special attention.

But Mommy—

No buts about it. You heard me. Melody released an exasperated sigh.

Her gaze locked onto the two pairs of boots piled neatly in the corner. Probably a dog dug it up and carried it away. . . . I, too, miss Natalie. It’s as if she disappeared. She turned toward her treasured friend. But, Robin, we already tried.

Robin tipped her head and glared at Melody from the corner of her eyes.

"You just can’t give up, can you?" Melody puffed out a sigh.

With pursed lips and raised eyebrows, Robin shook her head. Nope, I can’t.

Butter darted toward the living room. Cody and Aurora chased after him. Melody’s cheeks flushed as she started after them. Aurora, Cody!

Oh, leave them be. The kids are fine. Honestly, Mel, you worry too much about those two.

They can’t sit still for an instant. Look, my children are turning my hair gray. Melody lifted a patch of blond in front of her ear and revealed a few off-colored strands.

I can’t wait for Abigail to be old enough to play like your kids do. Melody, you are a terrific mom. I don’t know why you discredit yourself so much. You have five healthy, happy, well-balanced children. There’s no question they are greatly loved. If Eric and I do half as well as you and Bruce did, I’ll consider it a success. And in case you are wondering, I don’t think we will make it to five.

Oh, come on. Don’t you want to follow in my footsteps? Mischief laced the smirk that spread across Melody’s lips.

Robin gazed at Abigail, who gurgled back. I don’t know how you do it, Mel. This precious angel requires far more work than I have ever imagined.

Are you already looking forward to when your maternity leave ends?

Eric and I have discussed that a lot. I don’t think I’m going back to work. The thought of being away from Abigail is too much to bear. Besides, the cost of daycare would take most of my paycheck.

"Yeah, but you still would have some take-home pay. Your household would feel the salary slice if you quit."

You’re right, but Abbie is worth it. Robin nuzzled her cheek over Abigail’s soft, brown hair.

"Be careful you don’t start going stir-crazy. Nothing but bottles and dirty diapers all day, not to mention a healthy dose of children’s television, can do some pretty funny things to the adult mind."

All I’ve ever wanted was to get married and have children.

You never were the career type, Melody laughed. I’m the one who wanted the career but instead got married straight out of high school and started right on a family. I remember it well. All you could talk about was finding your handsome prince and having a bunch of babies. It took you long enough to find that gallant of yours.

And you are the one who had lots of babies. I wonder what type of future Natalie dreamed about. She never would talk about that, remember? Memory’s warmth cozied up in Robin’s chest. Eric was well worth the wait.

You’re right about that. You caught yourself a gem.

A crash followed by a child’s squeal arose from the other room. Melody stepped through the doorway with Robin trailing behind and glanced toward the bay window at many toppled photographs. Butter stood beside the casualty. A defensive arch lined his back.

Aurora’s hand covered her gaping mouth while Cody stood rigid in an unnaturally stiff stance beside the rocking chair. It wasn’t us! I swear. Cody’s saucer-shaped brown eyes widened.

Melody entered the room and petted the feline’s spiked fur. She lifted an ornate, silver frame and froze as she stared at the old, photographed reproduction of Robin, Natalie, and herself. The three girls sat in the back of a pickup truck with arms looped around each other’s shoulders and broad grins on their faces.

Robin placed a hand on Melody’s shoulder. Remember when my dad would drive us to the countryside so we could roll down our favorite grassy hill? Afterward, he always treated us to ice cream.

Melody lowered the photograph. We tumbled down that hill for hours, laughing all the way. Once your father announced it was time to go, we spent nearly as long plucking dry grass from our hair and clothes. I never did remove all that hay from my favorite red sweater.

Don’t you miss those times? We three shared a bond like no other. We can’t let Natalie go without a fight! Robin heard her voice rise in intensity. Her fingers fumbled with a miniature silver bird nest with three white pearls set within, hanging from a chain around her neck.

Too many years had elapsed since this trio last reunited. A much younger Robin, as their ringleader, had ensured that nothing would split this group apart, not even time. Nonetheless, circumstances had taken over, ripping a beloved sister from their grasp.

Even though twenty-two years had passed since their last contact with Natalie, Robin continued to scatter photos of this sisterhood throughout her home to keep alive the belief that their bond would never fade. Natalie’s boot remained lost, but Natalie must be found.

Mom, Cody didn’t mean to . . . Aurora sat beside the Christmas tree, taking on an innocent angelical pose.

Irritation flared in Melody’s expression as she glared at her son and daughter. You two have got to settle down! She propped the photograph on the sill and straightened the remaining display of assorted pictures.

Butter leaped to the floor, pausing just long enough for Aurora and Cody to snatch him back into their clutches.

Melody glanced out the window. A collection of birdfeeders filled to the brim with a lavish feast hung outside on the compact open patio. Juncos, chickadees, and cardinals crowded in on each other, vying for their fill. Every time I look out your window, I can’t help but think how ironic it is. You feed the birds as your cat sits inside this glass divider and drools with fantasies of a gourmet banquet. That is so like you, Robin. The eternal peacemaker of all God’s creatures.

Robin shifted Abigail in her arms, choosing not to use one of the many baby paraphernalia throughout her apartment. I guess that’s who I am. Hence, why we cannot give up on Natalie.

Melody plopped into the oak rocker purchased for Abigail’s birth. When you set your mind on a project, you become relentless. Not even the biggest iceberg could stop you. Her lips pressed tight together as she brushed straight bangs out of her face. We have already tried many times, remember? Every search came up empty.

Well, we must try again and keep trying until we succeed. Robin felt the plea within her heart seep through her eyes. "This is all too important. I cannot shake the need to locate her. Maybe on our last attempt, the timing wasn’t right. Now will be different. It has to!"

I don’t know . . . what else can we do?

A cry rattled from Abbie. Robin added a bounce to her sway. Abigail’s eyelids fluttered shut. She’s ready for her nap. I’ll be right back. Carrying a sleepy infant in her arms, Robin headed off toward the nursery.

Robin laid Abigail in the crib, then wandered back into the kitchen in time to witness Butter let out a loud meow, skirt across the linoleum floor, and slide through a slightly ajar cabinet door.

Melody’s brown eyes widened, enhancing their contrast to her pale-blond bob. Cody, Aurora, quiet, or you will wake the baby! My gosh, you two, the chaos of our home follows everywhere you go.

Cody twisted the pointed collar of his button-down, teal shirt. Mommy, I’m hungry. Can I ask Auntie Robin for something to eat?

Aurora grasped her younger brother’s wrist. No, Cody. You can wait till we get home.

Ouch, that hurts! He tugged for his arm, but Aurora held fast. I want a snack.

Cody, you are being rude.

Am not. Let me go!

All right, you two, stop! Cody, you will survive until we get back home. Melody stepped in between the scuffle and gently separated her children.

I bought a box of cookies the other day. Cody and Aurora can have some. Robin rested her hand on the knob of a cabinet door.

Yes, please, I’ll take one.

Aurora scowled at her brother, yet her eyes begged for the treat when they latched onto Robin’s.

A cold breeze entered the room as the door swung open. Well, we’ve got a full house this evening. Eric stomped his polished shoes on the entry rug, sending clumps of snow into the fibers. How’s it going, Mel?

Eric! Cody ran up and wrapped his arms around Eric’s leg. Aurora followed closely behind.

Hey, kids. He ruffled the boy’s hair and clasped Aurora’s outreached fingers.

Robin’s gaze latched onto her husband. A tingle intermingled throughout her veins as she took in his handsome, clean-cut features. Welcome home, Eric. She greeted him with a tender kiss.

Cody backed away and stuck out his tongue. Yuck.

From songbird to lovebirds. Melody smiled, shaking her head.

Look what I picked up on my way home. I thought it might make a nice add-on to your holiday decorations. Eric handed Robin a handmade pine wreath.

It’s beautiful! And smell that aroma. Robin drew the pleasant scent deep into her lungs as she held the wreath to the door.

Melody shook her head. As if she needs any more. Haven’t you noticed? Your home is already bursting with Christmas decorations along with baby stuff.

Oh, Mel, you’re just jealous because you haven’t started to decorate yet.

You are absolutely right, and I do not plan to jam-pack my home any sooner than one week before Christmas. We’re crowded enough as it is.

But there is such limited time to enjoy it.

Honey, you enjoy Christmas enough for both of us.

Robin laid the wreath on the table and returned to the cupboard. She opened the cabinet door, stretched up on her toes, and pulled down the box of chocolate cream cookies. Can I give Cody and Aurora a few?

Thank you, but we need to be leaving. The girls should have dinner ready by now. Hopefully, Dillon stayed off his video games long enough to chop firewood. Anyway, Cody needs to learn better manners. Just wait. Someday, sweet Abbie will behave like my kids, Melody said with a wink.

Only if Eric and I decide to have another one. If I am correct, it takes more than one child to squabble.

Eric hung his overcoat on a wall hook, exposing the well-tailored business suit beneath. "That does it. We’re stopping