TEXAS ROADS (A Miller's Creek Novel Book 1) (30 page)
Read TEXAS ROADS (A Miller's Creek Novel Book 1) Online
Authors: Cathy Bryant
Although a native daughter of Texas, Cathy currently resides in the lovely Sangre de Cristo mountains of northern New Mexico with her husband of over thirty years. She loves to spend time with her family, romp around in the great outdoors, and weave heart-stirring stories about God’s life-changing grace.
In addition to the Miller’s Creek novels, Cathy also has written devotional articles for The Upper Room magazine, collaborated with other authors on two devotional books, and penned a Bible study for a Facebook group.
To learn more about Cathy and her books, visit her website at
www.CatBryant.com
. Cathy also loves to connect with readers in the following places.
|
Facebook
|
Twitter
|
Pinterest
|
Goodreads
|
A
free download of A PATH LESS TRAVELED,
the second stand-alone novel in the Miller's Creek books, is available to new
subscribers of Cathy's FROM MY FRONT PORCH monthly newsletter
. In the newsletter Cathy offers reader friends
exclusive special offers, new book release information, and information about upcoming book sales and giveaways
.
For more information on how to claim your free book,
CLICK HERE
.
Reader friends on Facebook
may want to visit the following groups, the first for book bargains and the second to discuss all things Miller’s Creek.
Dani’s story was born from my own quest to find home. For years my husband, two sons, and I seemed destined to move from one small Texas town to another. And just about the time we’d feel settled, the Lord would move us again. I yearned to put down roots—to find a place that felt like home.
God used that time in my life to grow me spiritually and help me realize that for His children, home will never be a place on this earth. Instead our home is in Jesus. Only He can fill that home-sized hole in our hearts.
I don’t know where life’s road has taken you, but if you haven't already done so, I pray you’ll discover the peace and joy of making Christ your forever home.
At Home in Him,
Cathy
P.S. If you enjoyed TEXAS ROADS, please prayerfully consider leaving your honest review for the book at Amazon. Thank you.
1. Steve struggled with his mother's illness and in knowing how to pray for the situation. Dani battled with trusting a God who allowed difficulty. In your opinion, what are some of the benefits of enduring hardship and suffering? How has hardship and suffering shaped Dani? Steve? Mama Beth? You?
2. Dani and Mama Beth both harbor secrets. Why? How are their secrets different from one another? Their motives? How are their secrets alike? And their motives?
3. Steve believes that he is inadequate and ineffective in his efforts to help Dani know God. Have you ever felt that way? Is Steve actually ineffective? How can you apply this to your life?
4. What is the theme of this story? What symbols do you see used in the story? What is the main symbol, and how does it intertwine with the theme?
5. Why do you think Dani struggles so much with the decision to move to Miller's Creek? Have you ever faced a decision where you felt nothing but opposition? How did it affect you? How did it influence your decision?
6. Dani often questions God and His goodness. What are your thoughts and feelings about people questioning God? Is it wrong? Why or why not?
7. We are all quick to make assumptions about others. What are some of the assumptions Dani and Steve make about each other? What are some of the assumptions you made about the characters as they were introduced? Name several places in the story where characters made hasty and often incorrect judgments. Why did they make these assumptions and with what consequences? Have you ever been on the receiving end of incorrect assumptions? How did it make you feel? How did it change you?
Any writer who’s honest will tell you no book is ever birthed by one person alone. Instead it is born and reborn through the efforts of many.
~ To my beta readers and extra sets of eyes: Carolyn, Virginia, Jimmie, Tessie, Mernie, Marlayne, Vanessa, Judith, Camille, Barbie, and Veronica. I can’t thank you enough for the enormous help you provided. Thanks for being such a blessing!
~ To numerous friends who have helped spread the word about this book. I’m overwhelmed, humbled, and grateful. God bless you all.
~ To my church family at FBC, New Boston for your prayers and encouragement. Your kind words and intercession carried me through the writing of this book.
~ To my awesome critique partner, Ralene Burke, writer and friend extraordinaire. Thanks for telling me what I needed to hear instead of what I wanted to hear. I’m so grateful to God for allowing our paths to cross.
~ To Mom, who taught me to believe that I could do anything if I worked at it hard enough. I love you. Thanks for cheering me on.
~ To my amazing and supportive family. Josh, your legal and business expertise has been invaluable. Jase, it was your determination to stay true to your dream that gave me the courage to pursue mine. Megan, my daughter-in-love and the daughter of my prayers, I praise God for your sweet spirit and heart for Him. Harrisen, my beautiful grandson, in three months’ time you’ve not only blessed my life, but captured my heart.
~ To my husband, Travis. The song you wrote for the book is perfect, but there aren’t enough adjectives and adverbs in the world to describe how I feel about you. Your love, encouragement, and support kept me going when I wanted to quit. You have all my love, with all my heart, for all my life.
~ To my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. You are the reason for it all …
A widow with shaken faith is determined to blaze a trail for herself and her traumatized son, but must regain her faith to take a path less traveled.
Can a fallen perfectionist--especially in the face of life-altering circumstances--bestow on others the grace God has lavished on her?
A dusty stack of unopened love letters forces a betrayed woman to revisit a part of her past she’d rather leave buried–especially when confronted with her husband's impending death.
A frightened runaway co-inherits a farm with the man responsible for the scars on her heart. Can the two move past old wounds and grudges to build a bridge unbroken?
* * *
Other Books by Cathy Bryant
The Fragrance of Crushed Violets: Forgiving the Inexcusable
A Bible Study Booklet About Forgiveness
How do we handle it when the assault of another is personal, public, deep, unjust, unfair, and unfounded? Take it one step further. How do we deal with meaningless acts of destruction and death such as the Twin Towers incident or a school shooting, especially when the offender shows no remorse? This Bible study explores these questions and more as we examine forgiveness through the eyes of faith.
* * *
COMING 2015
Crossroads
a Miller's Creek novel
A bitter prodigal denies God's existence until faced with her daughter's life-threatening diagnosis. Can a struggling veteran, with his own demons to overcome, help her find her way back to God?
TEXAS ROADS
"Very good story with great characters and plot. A good lesson in following the path that you were meant to follow. I look forward to reading more of the Miller's Creek series."
~Amazon Reviewer
"Uplifting book, easy to read, engaging. Cathy Bryant is an excellent author. Her love and faith in God is evident in every word she writes."
~Amazon Reviewer
A PATH LESS TRAVELED
"I 'stumbled' across this book for free in the e-book section. I know I 'found' it for a reason. If anyone is looking for the path to God, this is a very important book. I found it very profound in exactly what I need at this time. Trust in God. That's all you need. I can't describe the way I feel about finding this book at
this time in my life. What I really enjoyed is that it is a work of fiction, not someone telling me how to do what I need to do."
~Amazon Reviewer
"How often we miss God's perfect plan by following our own. Well written and so refreshing to read a great novel showing God's amazing grace and faithfulness."
~Amazon Reviewer
THE WAY OF GRACE
"This is the first Cathy Bryant book I've read, and I was caught up in it from start to finish…. Cathy Bryant is a fine Christian writer, and I can't wait to read her other books."
~Amazon Reviewer
"The Way Of Grace is a beautiful story of showing mercy and grace as Christ did. A few unexpected turns and keeps you wanting to read on. I Love this series of novels. Can't wait for the next one."
~Amazon Reviewer
"Cathy has done it again! Her books just keep getting better. With an air of mystery, this book grabs and holds the reader's attention from the start. Rather than just a 'predictable' book, the story takes some unexpected twists and turns. It's not just a 'happily ever after' book; instead, the reader encounters a story of danger, courage, life-changing choices, love, and the amazing grace of God."
~Amazon Reviewer
PILGRIMAGE OF PROMISE
"Though I have not read the earlier books in the series it did not take away at all from the story, which was engaging, humorous at times, and impeccably well done. Bryant has some really great talent and knowledge, something that is very obvious in her writing and characters. It was really hard to quit reading!"
~Amazon Reviewer
"For me, Pilgrimage of Promise was Karen Kingsbury meets Nicholas Sparks."
~Amazon Reviewer
"Another great read! I just cannot put these books down once I start them. The blessing of a great story in combination with being reminded of a spiritual truth is time well spent."
~Amazon Reviewer
A BRIDGE UNBROKEN
"Each time I read a new book in this series, I think they can't possibly get better than this one......I'm always wrong."
~Amazon Reviewer
"Extremely interesting characters, new and old, and a deep-hearted storyline of what true forgiveness really is..."
~Amazon Reviewer
A PATH LESS TRAVELED
I
n spite of the thousands of winking lights surrounding Trish James, a wedding somehow lost its luster in the wake of death. She nudged her shucked shoes out of the way with her big toe and adjusted the tulle on the wedding arch, the soft netlike fabric billowing beneath her fingertips as she encased the twinkle lights. The church sanctuary, with its white pews, stained-glass windows, and smoky blue carpet, served as the perfect backdrop to her design.
“This wedding must be hard on you after Doc’s death.” Dani spoke the words as if uncertain she should speak at all.
The ache in Trish’s heart started afresh, a wound that never healed, but she pushed it aside with practiced expertise. This wedding wasn’t about her. “I’m fine. It’s not every day my brother marries the most wonderful woman in the world.” She forced a bright smile. “I’ve never seen Steve so happy.” Mom would’ve loved this wedding.
Her sister-in-law-to-be didn’t return the smile. Instead, the area above her clear blue eyes creased. “You sure you’re okay?”
“Yep.” Trish snipped the word and bent low to snag a sprig of silk ivy, then inserted it in the proper place and blinked away tears. In truth, it would be great to have someone to share her concerns with, but within boundaries—not right before the wedding, not with anyone who lived in Miller’s Creek, and
definitely
not with family members. The last thing she wanted was for them to come to her rescue.
She’d told Delaine some of the situation, but her best friend since high school now lived the fast-paced, Austin lifestyle, their conversations limited to when Delaine didn’t have something else on her agenda.
“I can’t imagine how difficult it is to be both mother and father to Little Bo.” Dani lowered her head, blonde ringlets framing her face. “And then trying to start a business on top of everything else.”
Oh, no. She wasn’t going there. Trish clenched her teeth. Steve had already given her this lecture. With his best brotherly concern, he’d told her she didn’t have to be Superwoman. Yeah, right. Try telling that to her empty checkbook and refrigerator. She glanced at Dani, who sat atop the piano railing, swinging her legs. “Are you ready for the big day tomorrow?”
A happy glow wreathed her friend’s face. “And the day after, and the day after that. I think I’ve been getting ready to marry Steve my entire life.”
“I’m happy for you both.” Though it hurt to speak the words, she meant it. It wasn’t their fault her life was in the doldrums.
Dani sprang from her perch and trotted down the steps to view the stage. “You have such a gift, Trish. Everything looks magical.”
Trish gazed at the curly willow branches she’d ordered and spray-painted white, now wrapped with tiny sparks of light. The fairy tale forest blanketed the stage and meandered down the side aisles in an aura of enchantment. Once the ribbons and flowers were placed, and candles inserted into globes and nestled among the boughs, her vision would be complete. “I hope it’s what you wanted.”
“It’s better than I could’ve ever imagined.” Dani hurried over and draped an arm across her shoulder. “Once everyone in Miller’s Creek see this, you’re gonna get loads of business.”
A heavy sigh whooshed from her before she could contain it. “From your lips to my bank account.”
Dani’s eyes clouded. “I don’t know how to say this, so I’m just going to say it and get it over with. Are you okay? I mean . . . do you need to borrow money or something?”
No. Yes. Yes. She wasn’t okay. She needed money. She needed . . . something. “I’m fine.” The lie popped out as she stepped to the box perched on the piano bench. With care she lifted two delicate cracked-glass globes and moved to the candle stands. The words “I’m fine” were her constant mantra these days, like saying them made everything all right. Who was she kidding?
She closed her eyes and reopened them with a slow blink, weary of pretending. But what choice did she have? Her brother’s wedding wasn’t the time or place to air her personal problems. Besides, she was thirty-two years old, more than old enough to handle life on her own. A glance at her wristwatch sent her pulse on a stampede. Still so much to do to make the decorations perfect.
God, please let this bring me business.
Dani plopped back onto the railing. “Is Little Bo doing better?”
How could he be? “Sure, if you don’t count the nightmares and barely letting me out of his sight.” She omitted the fact that he was a hairsbreadth away from flunking kindergarten, unless she could help him catch up before the school year ended.
“So the psychologist is helping?”
Before Trish could respond, the double white doors at the rear of the church burst open. Incessant rain poured from the April sky and silhouetted a person’s form. Dani let out a squeal. “Andy!”
The petite blonde flew down the steps toward her friend.
Trish vaguely remembered the man from the time he’d spent in Miller’s Creek during the downtown renovation, though she didn’t recall ever having met him. Today he wore a lightweight suit with a loosened necktie, and had an easy-going smile that brightened the room. “Hey, girl. How’s the bride?”
Dani looked up at him, her face radiant. “Never better.”
“Yeah, I can see that.”
She tugged his arm. “Come here. I want you to meet someone.”
His loose-limbed gait gave the impression of someone always relaxed, like he’d just returned from a vacation at the beach.
“This is Andy Tyler, my friend and attorney from Dallas. Andy, this is Steve’s sister.”
Sea-green eyes sparkled. “Well, does Steve’s sister have a name?” He jogged up the steps and held out a hand, his smile still bright.
Trish laughed and took his hand. “I’m Trish James. Nice to meet you.”
Dani’s face took on a crimson hue. “Sorry. Guess my mind is elsewhere.”
Andy’s gaze rested on Trish’s bare feet. “Glad to know you have a name. What about shoes?”
She couldn’t help but smile. “I got rid of them hours ago.”
The hall door squeaked behind them, and Mama Beth, the mother figure of all of Miller’s Creek and Dani’s biological mother, bustled into the room. Along with her came the smell of fresh-baked bread wafting from the fellowship hall. Trish could almost taste the melt-in-your-mouth rolls. Maybe she could sneak a few leftovers for her and Bo to nibble on next week.
The older woman gazed around the room. “My goodness, Trish, if this isn’t the most gorgeous thing I’ve ever seen.” Mama Beth hugged Andy’s neck. “Hi, Andy.”
A tender gleam lit his eyes as he wrapped his arms around the older woman’s shoulders and kissed her cheek. “Hi, sweet lady.” He turned raised eyebrows to Trish. “You did all this?”
She ducked her head and pushed a silky strand of hair behind one ear.
“All of it,” gushed Dani, “and wait until you see the fellowship hall.”
“Speaking of fellowship hall, I could sure use your help in the kitchen.” Mama Beth’s voice took on a commanding tone as she scuttled to the door. “We’ve got enough work to do for this rehearsal dinner to keep an entire army busy.”
Dani looked torn. “But I can’t leave Trish down here to do all this by herself.”
Trish wrestled the wieldy greenery in place, longing to comment that she didn’t need help. It would suit her just fine if they’d all go away and leave her alone.
Andy rested his hands on his hips in mock protest, his tan jacket pulled back. “What am I? Pork belly? I’ll help Trish. You go help Mama Beth.” He held up a hand. “Trust me when I say I’ll be more help here than in the kitchen.”
“Good point. I’ve had your cooking.” Dani grinned and rushed after Mama Beth. “Y’all know where to find us if you need help.”
Andy chuckled and shed his jacket, then laid it across the front pew and turned her way. “What can I do to help?”
Trish mentally checked her to-do list. “I was actually waiting for someone with more muscles than me to come around. There’s a box full of candles I need brought in from my Suburban.” She pointed toward the side door. “It’s out there and it’s unlocked.”
He gave a mock salute that bounced his sandy curls. “Yes ma’am.” Andy’s stocky frame loped down the steps and disappeared through the doorway.
Her eyebrows rose as she made her way to the pile of greenery on the front pew. Dani’s friend was more handsome than she’d remembered. Trish burrowed through the tangled mess, remembering the promise she’d made Dani to help Andy feel welcome. As if she needed a man to take care of along with her other responsibilities.
The door slammed, Andy’s eyes and forehead barely visible above the box he white-knuckled. She ran to him. “Let me help. I know that’s heavy. I loaded it this morning.”
“Nah, I got it.” The words wheezed out. “You loaded this by yourself?”
She ignored the question and pointed to the stage. “Can you bring it up the steps?”
He shot her a you’ve-got-to-be-kidding glare then labored up the steps, his face red, his breath coming in agonized spurts. As he reached the last step, the toe of his leather lace-ups snagged the extension cord snaking along the edge of the stage.
Trish tried to speak, but the words congregated behind her locked lips.
Andy stumbled, and the box flew from his arms, the candles launching like small missiles. He hit the floor with a thud, the box crash-landing at the base of the first tree.
In slow motion, like carefully-placed dominos, the trees rippled to the floor in a sickening staccato of crashes and breaking glass. As if to punctuate the effect, the white metal archway in the center creaked and leaned, as it teetered, then toppled forward with a bang.
Her mouth hinged open, and her hands flew to her cheeks. All her hard work . . . ruined. In her shock, it took a moment to realize Andy still lay face down on the carpet. She hurried over to him. “Are you all right?”
He pushed himself up on all fours and surveyed the devastation.
Assured he was okay, she moved to the top step and slung herself down. The scene replayed in her mind. A giggle gurgled out, and then burst forth in an almost-maniacal laugh.
Andy chuckled and crawled to sit beside her.
Without warning, her laughter turned to sobs. She covered her face with trembling hands, rage surging at yet another unexpected crying jag. Now she’d never be ready on time. No one would be impressed. No one would want her services. No business. No money.
“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.” Andy slid a hand down her arm. “I’ll fix it, Trish, I promise. I’m so sorry.”
Trish fisted her hands, then straightened her spine and swatted at the tears on her cheeks. “Will you
please
stop apologizing?” There was no controlling her snappish tone. “For Pete’s sake, it was an accident. I’m not gonna sue.” She clamped her lips, rose to her feet, and waded through the ruins. Fingers against her lips, she knelt to retrieve shattered slivers of glass from the broken globes. These weren’t even paid for.
Andy stooped beside her, his eyes boring a hole into her skull. “Here, let me get that. You start putting things back where you want them.”
Trish could only nod at his softly-spoken words, a knot wedged in her windpipe. She lifted a tree into position, the light strands dripping from the branches like a child had thrown them in place. So far her determination to prove herself capable had been met with nothing but industrial-strength resistance.
* * *
It’s all your fault.
The familiar words in Andy’s head relentlessly accused, ushering forth memories and ghosts from the past. Trish obviously had spent hours on the wedding decorations, and he’d managed to undo her work with one false step. He forced the finger-pointing voice to the back of his mind and attempted to burn off the chill that now hung in the room. “You live here in Miller’s Creek?”
“Yes.” She pinched off the word. “My son and I live here. At least for now.” She didn’t look at him while she maneuvered the lights back on the branches with agile fingers.
Son? Now he remembered. Dani had mentioned something about Steve’s sister losing her husband in a freak accident. A cow kick—or was it a horse? And how long ago? “You’re leaving town?”
“I don’t want to, but we don’t always get what we want, do we?”
True, but sometimes what you thought you wanted wasn’t what you needed. Andy rose to his feet, his hands cupped to contain the glass shards. “No, we don’t. You have a trash can?”
Trish’s tawny eyes looked his way. She grabbed an empty box and hurried to him. “Here.” She glanced around the stage, her face gloomy, her shoulders slumped. “Are they all broken?”
“Don’t know.” He dumped the pieces in the box, where they pinged against each other. “Is there some place I can buy replacements?”
She rubbed one arm and shook her head. “No. I had them shipped. I’ll drive to Morganville tonight after the rehearsal to see if I can find something that’ll work.”
The sadness on her face made his breath stick in his throat. He’d been in Miller’s Creek less than an hour and had already goofed things up. “I’ll go with you and pay for them since it’s my fault.”
