Daughter of Texas (15 page)

Her words sliced through him like a knife carving through butter. She was right. If he really believed,
really had faith that God worked in his life, then he'd have the faith to trust that God would protect them both. “I do have enough faith in God. I just don't have faith in love.”

Her eyebrows drew together. “I don't understand.”

“How long will your love last?”

“Forever.”

“You say that now.” He swiped a hand over his face, feeling exposed and raw as he let out his deepest fear.

“Your love will wane and then you'll regret your decision and…leave.”

For a long moment she stared. “Not going to happen. Once I commit, I'm fully committed. Love as an emotion, a feeling…” She shrugged. “Yeah, it will ebb and flow just as all emotions and feelings do. That's part of being human. That will have no bearing on my commitment. And I am ready to leap, jump, dive into a relationship with you, Ben. You and only you.”

He so desperately wanted to believe her words. “But—”

“No buts.” Her expression gentled. Compassion filled her pretty eyes. “I get it. This is a lot to take in. And it's out of the blue. And we don't really know each other.” She made a face. “I mean, we've known each other for a long time, but we don't
really
know each other. We can go slow. Take our time figuring this out. Whatever you want. But I'm in. All the way.”

Her words zoomed straight to his heart. All in. If she were willing to take the risk of loving him, could he do no less?

They stared at each for a long moment. A slow smile
spread through him. The depth of love shining in her eyes wouldn't be denied. She loved him. Him.

“I love you, too.” The words burst from his mouth like a dam breaking. In a swift move, he pulled her into his arms. “I don't know what I did to deserve you.”

She reached up to tug his head closer. When her lips hovered a breath from his, she said, “You did everything right.”

With a growl of joy and pleasure, he kissed her, sealing their future together.

Dear Reader,

I hope you enjoyed the first book in the TEXAS RANGER JUSTICE continuity series. Writing about Texas Rangers was a first for me and I thoroughly enjoyed delving into the life of a Ranger. The Texas Rangers have a long and exciting history that inspires admiration. Thank you for the opportunity to introduce you to Ranger Ben Fritz and I hope you are looking forward to getting to know the other Texas Rangers in this series.

Corinna Pike suffered a terrible tragedy when she found her beloved father murdered. At first, angry at God for allowing this to happen, she had to come to a place where she could once again trust her Heavenly Father. Balancing Corinna's grief and her growing feelings for Ranger Ben Fritz proved challenging but in the end her love couldn't be denied. Through Ben's steadfast commitment to God, Corinna and justice, he managed not only to protect her, but to fall in love with her as well.

Blessings,

1. What made you pick up this book to read? Did it live up to your expectations? How so?
   
2. In what ways were Ben and Corinna realistic characters? How did their romance build believably?
   
3. Talk about the secondary characters. What did you like or dislike about the people in the story?
   
4. Was the setting clear and appealing? Could you “see” where the story took place?
   
5. Corinna was angry that God didn't answer her prayers for her father's protection. Have you experienced times where God's answer to your prayers wasn't the answer you sought? Explain.
   
6. Ben told Corinna evil had killed her father. What does this statement mean to you?
   
7. Why do you think God allows free will?
   
8. Corinna revealed that she danced because it was her mother's wish for her life. What are some expectations that have been placed on you? How did you deal with them?
   
9. Though the Miriam Shelter is fictional, the issue of domestic violence is very real. In what ways
   could you help those suffering from this issue in your community?
   
10. Corinna found value in volunteering her talent to teach the children of the shelter to dance. Can you share about the talents God gave you? In what ways are you using those talents for good?
    
11. The loss of her father affected Corinna deeply. Can you share a loss that had touched your life? How did it change you?
    
12. Ben took his promise to watch over Corinna seriously. Can you share a promise you've made that was important for you to keep?
    
13. Did you notice the Scripture in the beginning of the book? What do you think these words mean? What application does it have to your life?
    
14. How did the author's use of language/writing style make this an enjoyable read? Would you read more from this author? If so, why? Or why not?
    
15. What will be your most vivid memories of this book? What lessons about life, love and faith did you learn from this story?