by JoAnn Durgin
“What are you making?” Ah, he’d made her curious. Good.
“Ta-da!” He walked toward her. “Hold out your hand.”
“But...”
“Just do it, Marta. For once in your life. And close your eyes. It’ll add to the effect.”
With a sigh, she obeyed. Squeezing her eyes tight, she held out one hand.
He deposited the paper napkin swan in her open palm. “Okay. You may open your eyes now.”
She looked at it silently for a long moment before looking up at him. “That’s really impressive. Where’d you learn how to do that? Jail? I hear the inmates have a lot of time on their hands.”
He couldn’t help it. Eliot roared. “You’re precious, you know that? Matter of fact, that’ll be your new nickname. I think I’ll suggest it to Sam. Seems like he has nicknames for most of the women, so it’s about time you have one, don’t you think?”
Marta stared at him and shook her head. “Any more tricks up your sleeve? Any other animals or shapes you can make out of plain paper napkins? Wow me with your folding prowess. It’s quite fascinating.”
“We don’t have time for my whole repertoire, but I’ll show you something else.” He pulled another napkin out of the package. Marta stepped closer, watching closely as he quickly fashioned a flower. Arranging the petals, satisfied with his efforts, he bowed low and offered it to her.
“Don’t think this is a compliment or anything,” she said, “but that’s a unique talent. No doubt the Lord is pleased with your napkin folding abilities.”
Eliot swallowed his satisfaction at that little bit of a compliment. “Think the kids will appreciate my napkin creations? Let me make a few more and then I promise I’ll be good and help you put out the silverware.”
“I can handle it,” she said. “You just keep on making those napkin animals and flowers.”
“I’ll do that.”
~~♥~~
As Sam prepared to leave the worksite, his cell phone rang. Pulling it out, he glanced at the display. “Hey, Kevin. What’s up?”
“Sam, I’m at the hospital with Rebekah.” Something in Kevin’s tone alarmed him.
Sam’s pulse accelerated at a rapid-fire pace. “Tell me what’s happening.” He noted Marc’s look of concern as he sat on one of the pews installed in the sanctuary earlier in the day.
“She started feeling faint and then she had some spotting. She didn’t black out and the bleeding wasn’t heavy, but I thought it best to have her checked over by a doctor. Mitch and Cassie are here with us.”
“Has the doctor seen Beck?”
“Not yet. We’re waiting in an exam room now.” Kevin’s voice, usually so strong, wavered. “I overheard one of the nurses mention the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy. Don’t mind saying that was one of the worst things I’ve ever heard in my life.”
Ectopic? From what little Sam knew, an ectopic pregnancy was one that couldn’t develop full-term and posed a potentially serious health risk to the mother, both now and for future pregnancies.
“Let’s pray,” Sam said. Leaning forward, elbows on his knees, he bowed his head. “Father, we pray for Rebekah and her child, and for your will to be done. Be with the doctors as they assess her condition. Give Rebekah comfort and help her to know that you are in total control. You hold this little one in your hands, Father, and he or she belongs to you, no matter what happens. Be with Kevin. Give him peace and help him to be a source of strength for Rebekah. Thank you for Mitch and Cassie and their friendship, especially in this time of need. We ask these things in the name of your precious Savior. Amen.”
Ending the prayer, Sam cleared his throat. “Thanks for letting me know, Kevin. Do you want me to come to the hospital? I can bring Josh and Winnie with me.”
“There’s not much you can do here. Prayer is what we need most. I’ve talked with Josh, so he’s aware of what’s happening, too.”
“Be sure and call as soon as you know anything.” Sam scrubbed one hand over his jaw and chin, exhaustion threatening to overcome him. Marc tapped him on the shoulder and gestured to the phone. “Hang on a second if you can, Kevin. Marc’s here and wants to say a few words.” Before handing him the phone, Sam covered it with his palm and gave him the basics.
“Kev? Hey, it’s Marc. Listen, you might remember the same thing happened to Natalie out in Montana. Beck’s going to be fine, buddy. You’ve got to believe that.” As Sam listened, Marc said a quick prayer, too. “Call us if you need anything, okay? We can be there. Just say the word.”
“Thanks. I’m glad you were here.” Sam pocketed the phone.
Marc dropped down beside him. “I’m sorry, Sam. This must bring back some bad memories for you.”
“Bittersweet, really. We have to look at whatever happens as God’s will. He’s blessed us over and above what we ever expected.” Sam still felt a pinch near his heart whenever he thought of the baby they’d lost early in Lexa’s first pregnancy. Always would, most likely. He slapped his knee. “Let’s wrap it up here and then you can tell me more about your trip to China.”
Fifteen minutes later, the two men walked side-by-side for the short walk back to the camp. Marc told him about the plans for their adopted daughter as well as for when their baby was born. “Natalie’s leaving her teaching position next month and taking an indefinite leave while the kids are little. Gracie’s in school a few hours every day, so that’ll give Natalie more time to bond with the new babies.”
Sam took a long draw from his water bottle. “Are you going to find out if you’re having a boy or girl?” He thought Lexa told him they weren’t, but he couldn’t remember.
“No, because it doesn’t matter. I’ve learned to be thankful for what I’m given.”
“Amen, brother.”
Marc checked his watch. “I know it’s only been a little while, but think we should put in another call to Kevin?”
“You read my mind.” Sam pulled out his phone and punched the speed dial.
Chapter 23
Eliot dropped onto his bunk and pulled out his cell phone. No one else was around, so he retrieved the latest message and listened. With the time difference, he’d need to return the call later. His schedule was filling up quickly, and along with other assignments bound to come his way, he wouldn’t be home much. Wouldn’t be around to romance the lovely Marta. Wouldn’t be any closer to establishing a solid relationship with her. That reality made him frown.
He looked up as Dean blew into the dorm looking none too happy. “What’s up?”
“Name it.” The other man dropped onto his bunk and stretched out. Putting both hands over his face, he growled with obvious frustration. “Why is it so hard to try and talk with people?”
“Are we talking female or male?”
“Both.” Dean sat up on the bed and then swung around to face him. “Let’s start with Sheila. I’ll admit I’m not a Romeo like most of the TeamWork guys, but it seems like I put my foot in my mouth every time I try to talk with her.”
“Well, at least it’s a foot covered in fine leather.” Eliot chuckled and held up one hand. “Sorry, that was bad. I’m sure Sheila can tell you’re sincere. That goes a long way with a woman.”
Dean ran his hand over his jaw. “I started to point out the obvious facts that we’re about the same age, both single, and consenting adults. You should have seen the look on her face. You’d think I’d asked her to jump into bed with me.”
“Hate to tell you, but a lot of women would probably have the same reaction.” Dean looked a bit steamed. Positive reinforcement was needed to diffuse his friend’s agitation.
“Give me a break, Eliot. I don’t say things like that, but now she’s avoiding me.”
“Relax. Sheila probably thought it was amusing.” When Dean’s frown deepened, Eliot figured he was only digging the hole deeper. Again. Not his best afternoon. “Look, you’re a great guy with a lot to offer a woman. Do you think you might be coming on a little too strong? Sheila had it rough wi
th her first husband from what I hear, and she’s probably skittish around men. More skittish than most women.”
“So you’re saying I should treat her with the proverbial kid gloves? That’s what I’ve been trying to do. I guess I’ve been out of practice too long. I even mentioned the heart symbol on my designs is in honor of Mama Rose, and Sheila got the impression she’d died. My communication skills obviously leave a lot to be desired, and that’s putting it mildly.”
Eliot couldn’t help but laugh at that one. “Concentrate on being her friend and pick up on her cues. Once she knows you better, I’m sure she’ll open up more.”
Dean shot him a grateful glance. “I hope you’re right, but I’m bad when it comes to talking with women. Next topic: Felipe. That kid doesn’t like me, and I don’t know what to do about it.”
This topic was tougher. “You might try not treating him like a juvenile delinquent.”
Dean’s brows lifted. “Need I remind you that’s exactly what he is?”
Eliot was used to being more blunt and factual. Perhaps he’d been too strong in his assessment. “I think we can all see that Felipe’s not a bad kid. He’s a classic case of being a product of his environment. Haven’t you noticed how much he’s grown in the short time he’s been here in the camp? He’s relaxing and getting to know everyone. The last couple of days, he’s volunteered for jobs over at the worksite and seems eager to work each morning.”
“Yeah, I guess so.” Dean’s brow furrowed. “So, again, what’s your suggestion to get him to open up more and not treat me like I’m the scum of the earth?”
“That’s a little extreme, isn’t it?”
“I don’t think it is. Felipe answers me with monosyllables and short grunts. I’d like to have a decent conversation with him one of these days about something more meaningful than the weather. Look, Eliot. I’m not trying to be his friend, but I’m also not his parent. I feel kind of stuck as to my boundaries. A temporary guardian’s not a parent and yet I’m supposed to exercise some kind of parental-like authority.”
“I’m sure it’s tough. There are no real rules when it comes to a situation like this, but he is part of your family. You don’t necessarily have to be buddies with him, and you’re right that you need to maintain his respect as an authority figure. Felipe needs a structured family unit, although I’m sure he doesn’t understand that. What’s he interested in? Sports? Music? Usually the best way to get someone to open up and talk is to generate discussion about something they like. Ask questions. Show interest.”
“Other than a certain pretty teenage girl here in the camp, I don’t really know what he likes.” Dean scratched his head. “Sad commentary on my quasi-parenting skills, huh? He’s been with me a while now, and I should know the answer to the simple questions.”
“Why not ask him what he likes?”
“I could try. Knowing Felipe, he’ll accuse me of prying in his life.”
“Let him. Persist.” Eliot smiled. “Doesn’t hurt to ask, does it?”
Dean met his gaze. “No, I guess it doesn’t. It’s worth the risk of being shot down. Again.”
“Want to pray about it?”
Dean’s expression visibly relaxed. “You know, that’d be great. Best suggestion yet.”
Chapter 24
~~♥~~
Dean’s eyes widened in surprise when he entered the dining hall and noted Angelina’s shorter haircut. Then he spied Felipe beside her and his mouth gaped. For the past few months, he’d been trying to get him to cut his hair. More power to Angelina. He glanced about the room but didn’t see Sheila. For now, he needed to concentrate on Felipe. Bolstered by his shared prayer with Eliot, he felt ready to tackle the challenge.
Sliding onto a bench across from the teenagers, Dean pasted on a smile. “Nice haircuts. What prompted this change?”
Angelina explained how they’d come upon a Locks for Love promotion at a hair salon when they’d gone into town with the ladies. As she talked, Dean darted several glances at Felipe. The teenager remained silent with the same scowl he always wore in his presence. It wasn’t like he was an ogre or mistreated Felipe. Could be the kid didn’t like him because he represented authority and a father figure. Since his dad was a sore subject for Felipe, it could be a transference issue. Seemed like an uphill battle, but it was one he was willing to keep climbing.
His relationship with his own dad had been rocky until his dad died five years ago, so maybe he could tap into those feelings to try and reach Felipe. There had to be a way, and he was determined to find it.
“I’m proud of you, Felipe,” he said. “You’re helping out a cancer patient. That was a very unselfish, generous thing to do.”
Felipe drummed his fingers on the tabletop and seemed surprised by the compliment. “Yeah. Thanks.”
Josh welcomed everyone a few minutes later. “In case you haven’t heard, my twin spent a little time in the hospital earlier, but I want to assure you that everything’s fine. Beck’s back in the camp and she’ll be staying with Winnie and Natalie so they can keep an eye on her for a few days. Kevin’s here now and wants to say a few words. Then we’re going to ask that you wait and let him go through the food line first.” Stepping aside, Josh nodded to Kevin.
Kevin’s eyes were bright as he glanced around the room. “You know, it seems there’s always a blessing to be found, even in situations that sometimes seem overwhelming. Like Josh said, we had a scare earlier today. I don’t mind saying that I’ve never been so frightened in my life. Not that I ever doubt God’s promises or His will, but this hit close to my heart. It’s no secret that I’ve wanted to be a father for a while now. The same for Rebekah becoming a mother. I wanted to share with you that the tests they ran on Beck revealed something we didn’t anticipate.”
Like everyone else, Dean leaned forward, waiting.
“The doctors told us what to watch for and monitor once we get back home, but there’s no reason Rebekah shouldn’t carry to term and have a healthy, safe delivery.” Kevin broke out into a huge grin. “It’s all good, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to announce that Rebekah and I are expecting twins!”
Dean cheered and clapped along with everyone else. Some of the guys stomped and whistled and the ladies ran over to Kevin. He chuckled under his breath as they hugged him and then bombarded him with advice and questions. This crew had to be the best support group anyone could ever want.
An unexpected stab of envy hit Dean. Who was he kidding? He could barely bond with Felipe. Then again, Felipe had come to him with a whole set of teenage problems built up through the years. Forcing himself off the bench, Dean joined Angelina and Felipe as they congratulated the first time father-to-be.
“Okay, next on the agenda,” Josh said after the buzz of excitement died down, “you might have noticed some new members have joined us for dinner tonight. Mitch, could you introduce your friend?”
“Very funny.” Mitch wrapped his arm around Cassie. “My wife, as well as Angelina and Felipe, all donated a foot or more of their hair to Locks of Love today.”
“Kudos to all of you!” No one clapped louder than Josh. “Now, before I pray and we eat this wonderful meal, I have a very important announcement.” He held up one hand when Marc suggested he talk while they ate. “Hang in there, Thompson. Natalie, if you want to go fill a plate for yourself, Gracie, and your biggest kid over there while I talk, you go right ahead.”
Natalie shook her head. “That won’t be necessary.” She placed one hand over Marc’s mouth and nodded for Josh to continue.
“Next Tuesday night, beginning at seven o’clock sharp, right here in this dining hall, I will be your host for the first annual”—Josh nodded to Felipe and asked for a drumroll, to which the teenager gladly obliged—“TeamWork Talent Show! Winnie put a sign-up sheet on the bulletin board so don’t fall over yourselves to get over there, people. If you belch like a hippo or play a symphony with your armpits, sign up. Every one of you has talent, and I know because I�
��ve seen it or heard it. For instance, if you’ll notice the napkin creations on the tables tonight, those are courtesy of Mr. Eliot Marchand, ladies and gentlemen. Now that, my friends, is some awesome talent.”
“You’re not the master of ceremonies yet.” Landon’s comment generated laughter. “Great job on the napkins, though, Eliot.” Eliot acknowledged the compliments with a wave from where he sat next to Marta and Gayle. Ah, the singles table. Dean had considered moving over to join them but then Sheila stole his total attention when she quietly slipped onto the bench beside him. Never had he been so happy to see her, and he hoped she was feeling kindly towards him. He highly doubted she’d come to sit by him only to ignore or chastise him. Then she’d disappeared again.
“It’ll be your time to shine,” Josh continued. “Discover your creative gene and find a way to entertain us.”
Sam rose to his feet. “Just one more announcement.”
Several of the volunteers turned their heads toward Marc. “Why are you looking at me?” Then he groaned in an exaggerated way, making everyone laugh again.
“I think you’ll like this announcement,” Sam said. “After the church services on Sunday, everyone has the rest of the day free. The world-famous Balloon Fiesta is going on, and the longest tram ride in North America is right here in the Sandia Mountains. We’ll need to keep the security rotation in place, but do what you want until Monday morning when we resume our work schedules both here and at the church. Just be safe and have fun.”
Josh asked the blessing for their meal and then invited Kevin to start and form the food line at the front. When Dean got into the line behind Angelina and Felipe, he caught sight of Sheila coming out of the kitchen. She chatted with Amy as they put baskets of fresh-sliced bread on both tables. She passed by him on the way back to the kitchen again, and he reached out to her, touching her on the arm. “I hope you’ll sit with us tonight.”
