Wounds (42 page)

“I understand.”

Carmen walked from the room.

Two weeks and three operations by plastic surgeons later, Ellis stood at his bed, dressed and ready to leave the tiny hospital room behind. Movement at the door drew his attention. Carmen stood in front of a group Ellis knew well: Bud Tock, Hector Garcia, and Joe Heywood.

“You've come to arrest me?”

“Nope, we figured you would like a real meal.” Bud grinned. “You like Mexican food?”

“I live in San Diego. Of course I like Mexican food.”

“Good,” Carmen said. “The chief is buying us lunch at Jimmy Chen's Authentic Mexican Restaurant. Feel up to it?”

Ellis cocked an eyebrow at the name. “Yes. I could go for some real food.”

“You gotta try the beans.” Bud's grin was broad.

As was Carmen's grimace. “Oh, brother.”

Ellis and the others walked into Jimmy Chen's and Carmen led them to the back room. The place was filled. He saw Adam Bridger and his wife Rachel. The crowd included the families of the victims. The sight of Doug Lindsey's family moved Ellis to tears.

He stepped into the room.

The crowd applauded.

All except Carmen Rainmondi.

Discussion Questions

1. The greatest day in Ellis Poe's life was his conversion experience. That was quickly followed by the worst day in his life: witnessing a murder. Why would God allow such a thing to happen to a new believer?

2. Ellis Poe chose isolation. What is there about regret that puts distance between us and others?

3. How has regret affected you or someone you know?

4. Ellis invested himself in the lives of others but, knowing what you do about the event in his past, do you have trouble respecting him?

5. Carmen Rainmondi's sister was murdered changing her life and her plans forever. Have you had an event that changed the direction of your life? If so, how do you deal with it?

6. Carmen is not a person of faith so we might understand why she stews in her sadness and anger, but what excuse does Ellis have?

7. Ellis gets drawn into the investigation. How do the events change him?

8. Ellis is once again torn between turning his back on the situation but is unable to do so. What factors keep him from avoiding involvement?

9. There are several horrible murders in this story, all tied to a series of biblical events. Did these scenes make you see the death of Christ differently?

10. There is much evil in the world and we see some of it in this book. Why does God allow such evil to exist?

11. How do Carmen and Ellis ultimately deal with the negative emotions and regrets that have haunted them for so long?

12. Can you overlook Ellis's inaction as a teenager? Is it right to expect him to react as an adult? Could you forgive him?

13. Does a refusal to deal with personal guilt affect others?

14. If God were to suddenly appear in Ellis's office what do you suppose He'd say to the professor?

15. If God were to make a similar visit to Carmen in her home, what would He say to her?