“Amy, don’t diminish how well I know you by even saying such a thing. I understand exactly where you’re coming from. And let me reassure you again—my aunt would stay with us when you and Pyper come to visit. This isn’t untoward; it’s about giving ourselves a chance to build on something. Something special. So, think it over and let me know when…not if…you can make it out here, OK?”
Safe enough, and fair enough. Nothing would give her more pleasure than spending time with Tyler again, and he was going to such effort to make sure she was cared for on every level.
For the first time in five dry, stagnant years, Amy actually recognized herself as being precious. God had to be at work, bringing Tyler back into her life.
Amy stroked the phone, tucking it almost lovingly against her cheek. He was at the other end. He was present and faithful to the promises he had made before leaving Michigan. They had both made sure to reestablish their old ties, and in the week and a half since his departure, they had e-mailed, shared text updates, and chatted on the phone regularly.
“OK. Let me check in at work and see how quickly I can get away from Edwards Construction. I’m not going to kid you, it may be a little dicey. It’s spring into summer, work is ramping up. I don’t want to pull the rug out from under JB.”
“I understand completely. Keep me posted.”
“Deal. I will. And Tyler?
“Yeah, honey?”
“Thank you. Thank you for making Pyper so happy, and for being so wonderful, to both of us.”
“That comes to me as easy as breathing, Amy. See you,” he concluded with emphasis.
She smiled, her heart tripping with expectation, and a dangerous level of hope. “See you,” she replied softly, but with equal conviction.
She ended the call and stared straight ahead, seeing nothing whatsoever, as the ramifications set in. Her mind began to spin with plans and ideas. From here, there were only two places Amy could think of to turn: first prayer, and then Kiara.
****
“Why, Kiara? Why am I being so completely reckless? Don’t you think I’m being reckless?”
After Sunday services the next day, Amy visited with her friend in the Youth Formation offices at Woodland Church.
Amy leaned against the arm of the chair, cradling her head. “Do you have any idea how often I’ve thought of Pennsylvania?”
“I’ll bet. Tyler’s return kind of brought it all back, didn’t it?”
Amy chose to let that observation, and its double entendre, go. “I remember, back then, when you told me to pay more attention to the man who treated me well rather than the one who would rule the basketball courts, and the court of popularity.”
They sat next to each other at a small, round conference table. Kiara nodded, and Amy could have even sworn she heard her sigh softly. “I remember that conversation, too. You’ve always been so bright and positive and magnetic. You draw people in by virtue of your beauty—inside and out. At the time, you couldn’t help how you felt—about both of them.”
“You’re being way too easy on me.”
“No, I understand exactly where you’re coming from, and what led you to the choices you’ve made.”
Amy sighed, her heart aching when she looked at her friend. “I never, ever should have refused that piece of wisdom, Kiara. You came by your knowledge through hard knocks. I should have paid better attention and learned from you. It would have saved me so much grief and regret. I made a mess of my life. I’m ashamed of what I let happen, and all my stupid decisions.”
In a gesture of compassion, and understanding, Kiara reached across the tabletop and rested her hand on top of Amy’s. “Whoa back a second, and slow down. Don’t take the brunt of the hit, here. You weren’t the one who abused, you were the victim. And when you’re young, it’s so hard to absorb the larger truth—that life always plays the equalizer. After all, look at the difference between Mark and Tyler now that high school and teen influences are past.” Kiara leaned forward. “That said, I want you to remember one other very important fact. God uses everything for the good. Everything. After all, if you had made different choices, you wouldn’t have Pyper. Right?”
The statement stopped Amy’s self-centered thought pattern like a brick wall. The shock of Kiara’s words sank in deep and rippled through her system. “Ye…yeah…”
“Yeah. God, my darling girl, is now giving you an open door. Offering up a second chance. You’re being directed toward a new road to explore with someone who’s adored you from the moment he met you. And isn’t it ironic? The quiet, shy boy you knew back then has evolved into a handsome, charismatic, talented man. He’s become the kind of man you probably always dreamed of being with as the popular young girl who was the life of the party back in high school. The boy you knew needs to be reconciled to the man he is now. Because I tell you true, Tyler Brock is as swept away by you now as he ever was in high school.” Kiara arched a brow in challenge and provocation. “Think you can handle that, Miss Thing?”
Amy nibbled her lower lip. She fingered the worn edges of her bible, the well cared for, but much used black leather book her current focal point. Just before seeing Kiara, she had touched base with her boss, Jeremy Edwards, letting him know she might need to take a week off in the very near future. He had seemed interested, and even agreeable; Amy promised to let him know more about it on Monday morning.
For now, it seemed, all signs pointed to Tennessee.
Foot traffic and chatter faded the longer they sat together. Parishioners left Woodland. Soon, Ken would probably stop by, looking for his wife. The idea made Amy sigh wistfully on the inside, longing for a life that featured the love, and devotion, of a wonderful man. Still, everything remained uncertain. “And after the week is finished? What about then? The facts remain. He’s a celebrity; I’m most definitely not. His life, is far from mine, and then there’s the whole uprooting thing.”
Kiara puzzled. “Uprooting thing?”
“Um-Hmm. Let’s play the fantasy card for a moment. We have a great time together. We decide to build a future together. That future, for Tyler, won’t be in Michigan. His home is down south now, and as for me, well, during the past year, I’ve done nothing but drag myself, and Pyper, all over creation in an attempt to rebuild our lives. We’re getting back on track again. I don’t want to ruin that progress by yanking both of us away from everything we know, and everything that’s familiar.”
Kiara’s lips curved into a grin, then blossomed into a smile. “Know what this reminds me of?”
“What?”
“The story of Ruth and Boaz. Honestly, the book of Ruth is my favorite. It’s full of such upheaval, yet so much tender loving mercy and romantic devotion.”
The point struck Amy’s soul like a well-aimed arrow. She tilted her head, wondering where Kiara was headed with that comment.
“You make valid points about abandoning the life you’ve known here in Detroit. But in the end, the answers you’re looking for depend on you and Tyler. Listen to what I have to say, Amy, and think about it. Take it deeply to heart. Faith is a risk. Faith always requires trust. Faith requires vulnerability and absolute belief that, despite everything, God leads you to goodness. I honestly and truly believe Tyler has reentered your life for a reason. As part of a plan. Figure out where to take it, and I think happiness will follow. Just like Ruth and Boaz. It won’t be easy, but it’ll be so worth it.”
Amy went flush, prickly and expectant. She realized, for the first time in years, that there was happiness, and joy, to be found, if she could just let go and embrace it. Could she? Could she trust herself again, like she used to in her youth?
“All I know is I want to try,” Amy swallowed hard, banishing the tightness in her throat. “I’m so sick of this hole in my chest. It hurts so much.”
“Then fill it up. Fill it up by recognizing God’s grace, by recognizing the love you feel. It’s the only way that hole you’re talking about will ever get repaired.”
&nbs
p; Hearts Key
10
Amy held fast to Pyper’s hand as they skittered down the jet way to their waiting plane. Pyper glowed with excitement, pulling hard on Amy’s arm. They entered the cabin, welcomed by a lovely female flight attendant who gave Pyper a wink. “Welcome aboard. Enjoy your flight to Nashville.”
Amy’s heart raced.
Pyper beamed. “Mommy, this is so cool! I can’t wait to fly! I’m so excited!”
Tyler had purchased first class tickets, so their seats were close to the nose of the plane. Pyper shimmied her arms free of her backpack, which was stuffed full of necessities like the coloring books Tyler had provided, a couple of stuffed animals, some crayons of course, and a pair of her newer fashion dolls, complete with clothing changes. She claimed her seat, right next to the window, instantly fascinated by the arrival of the luggage trolley. Amy buckled in, already grateful for the wide, comfortable seats. While she pushed a canvas tote into the storage space in front of her feet, Pyper likewise stowed her backpack. Pyper tucked her hands beneath her thighs as she swung her legs back and forth. Her smile burst across her face like a heavenly light. She wore a simple, flowered sundress and sandals, her hair a wavy cloud of deep blonde around her face and shoulders. Amy had opted for white capris, and an aqua blouse, worn open over a white silk shell. Her belt was a converted scarf full of pastel swirls. Yes, she admitted to herself, she had fussed for Tyler.
“When will we be there?”
“In a couple of hours.”
“But you said it’ll be weird—that the time changes.”
“Yep. Nashville is an hour behind Michigan. It’s nine o’clock here, but it’s only eight o’clock where Tyler lives. We arrive in Nashville at 9:40.”
Pyper visually puzzled, then shrugged. “Weird.”
Pyper’s energy and overflow of exuberance only fed Amy’s nervous, but happy outlook about the trip to come.
A male flight attendant, dressed in a crisp blue uniform stopped by their seats. “Would you like something to drink, ladies?”
Pyper shrank back a bit, nesting as close to Amy as she could in a body-warmed request for reinforcement. Amy smiled at her daughter, tucking an arm around her. “Want some orange juice?”
Pyper looked into her eyes and nodded. “Orange juice for two, please.”
The man returned a short time later with a treat for Pyper. He had mixed a bit of sparkling tonic water with Pyper’s juice and added a maraschino cherry that floated on top. “This is a specialty of our airline. We’re asking our most special passengers to try it. Can you tell me what you think?”
Blinking, still ducking by Amy’s side, Pyper accepted the ice-filled plastic tumbler and took a sip. She smacked her lips and her eyes went wide. “It’s awesome!”
“I’m so glad you like it. Here’s another treat for being our official beverage sampler today. It makes you an honorary part of our crew.” He handed Pyper a plastic-wrapped set of wings.
“Thank you ve’y much.” Pyper tilted her head and fluttered her lashes at the attendant.
“You’re more than welcome. Enjoy your flight!”
“Mm’kay. I will.” He started to walk away. Pyper leaned forward, tracking him. “An’ if you want any other drinks tested, I’ll do it for you.”
Amy stifled a charmed laugh, diverting her reaction by kissing the top of Pyper’s head. Their flight steward grinned as well.
Minutes later, they were soaring, and Amy couldn’t stop thinking about what awaited her at the other end of this voyage. Kiara’s comments about Ruth and Boaz had stuck with her, working through her with a resounding sense of God’s promise when it comes to love. She had read through the Book of Ruth twice since their conversation, renewed by the tender shoots of Ruth’s hope and unshakable faith, by Boaz’s demonstrative affection, his compassion and protection.
The Book of Ruth, with its message of love and an intimate mercy, spoke to a chamber in her soul that remained, since her divorce, in desperate need. Even now, as she embraced the comfort of a deluxe flight, as she slid deeper into Tyler’s care with every mile that passed, a tingling quiver went wild in her belly; a dance of sparks lit her senses. Her entire body went flush, radiant at the mere thought of the one who was already giving her, and Pyper, a world full of blessings.
****
Hand-in-hand with Pyper, Amy made her way through the airport and down an escalator towards the baggage claim where Tyler had agreed to meet them. She found the turnstile for their flight and while she waited for the conveyor belt to begin churning, she punched in the auto-dial connection to Tyler’s cell phone.
“Baggage claim five, right?” he said instead of the standard hello.
Amy laughed. A flood of goose bumps danced against her skin, building her sense of anticipation. “Tyler Brock, ladies and gentlemen. He’s not just a talented musician. He’s also psychic.” The rumble of his laughter made her so happy. “Are you here yet?”
“Close.”
An instant later, the slightly roughened touch of a man’s fingertips slid against her hand from behind, slowly removing the cell phone from her grasp and disengaging the call.
Amy spun, delight filling her as Tyler performed a quick and tempting nuzzle against her neck. “Welcome to Nashville,” he murmured into her ear.
He wore a pair of faded blue jeans and a nondescript blue sweatshirt. A baseball cap was turned backwards, sunglasses dangled from his fingertips. He may have been attempting to blend and sink beneath notice, but Amy’s heart beat erratically. She looked up at him and smiled, her emotions exposed to the core. Tyler slid an arm around her waist and gave her a squeeze, but then he let go so he could squat down and say hello to Pyper.
“How’s my sugar beet?” He didn’t reach out or pull her toward him. Instead, he kept his distance and simply smiled into her eyes.
“I fine,” she answered quietly, holding tightly to Amy’s side. “How’re you?”
Tyler’s smile only grew. “I’m doing a whole lot better now that you and your mommy are here to visit. My aunt, RuthAnne, can’t wait to meet you. She’s already planning a lunch spread. You hungry?”
Pyper took a small inch toward being receptive. “Sorta. I helped the people on the plane test out how good their soda drinks were.”
“Amazing!”
Chuckling, Amy stroked a hand against Pyper’s hair. “I think taking her maiden voyage in first class spoiled her for anything less.” Amy gave her daughter’s shoulder a gentle squeeze. “Can you show Tyler your wings?”
“Mmm-hmm. Here.” She stayed glued to Amy’s side, but rifled through the pocket of her dress and found what she was after. Tyler admired the plastic toy wings she handed over that bore the logo of the airline.
An alarm sounded and a few seconds later, the rotator belt of the baggage conveyor came to life. Not long after, their two suitcases were in Tyler’s hands, and he led the way to an adjoining parking garage. “I’m right over here.”
Tyler pointed his key fob. After a chirp of the security system and a brief flash of the rear lights, Amy realized which car was his, and her eyes went wide. It was a fire engine red Ford Mustang.
Convertible.
Even Pyper was awestruck. “Mr. Tyler, that’s a really cool car!”
“Oh, Pyper, you’re a Detroit girl. You know better than anyone that this isn’t a mere car. This is a work of art on wheels.”
Pyper burst out laughing. “That’s not true! It doesn’t even got a picture frame!”
“Know what? You’re right, it doesn’t, especially when I open up the roof. You guys game for some wind in your hair, and some sunshine?”
“Yeah!” Amy and Pyper answered in unison.
Tyler stowed luggage, then joined them next to the car. Amy’s eyes went wide when she saw that he carried a booster seat. “You honestly thought of a booster seat? I’m officially amazed…I have to admit, I was a little worried, but of course, I didn’t even think of it until we had boarded the plane.”
Tyler went about setting up the child restraint in the back seat. “I’d love to take credit, but this is all RuthAnne. She has grandkids, and knew enough to let me know I’d need it. She had an extra one she’s letting me borrow for the week.”
Being in the care of an inherently thoughtful man caused Amy’s delight to bubble and flow, for she had nearly forgotten what such a thing was like. Her gaze locked with Tyler’s, and she hoped her eyes reflected her appreciation.
Once they were settled, he retracted the top of the vehicle. At the first stoplight outside of the airport, he draped a wrist over the steering wheel and turned toward her. “You look fantastic. I’m so glad you’re here.”
“Me, too.”
He leaned in. She watched him do so with wide eyes, trembling with the expectation of his mouth gliding against hers. She imagined his textures, and flavors. But then Tyler paused, and chuckled softly. His breath skimmed warm against her skin when he tilted her head slightly and gave her cheek a tender nuzzle, just like he had in baggage claim. She tilted her head, turned, beset by the sweetest cloud of wanting…seeking his lips…but Tyler moved smoothly away, a grin lighting his eyes. . “More on that later,” he murmured.
The light went green, but she wanted his kiss, literally ached for it. Shaking her head, Amy worked free of languor and focused on the road ahead. Once they cleared out of Nashville, heading south on I-65, they sped through rolling land dotted by large trees and crowned by expansive homes.
Half an hour later, Tyler pulled down a gravel road that curved through a thick stand of sycamore and magnolia trees. At the end came her first view of his home.
It was a farmhouse of deep yellow with large windows that shone in the sun. A wide, wrap-around porch framed in the lower level. Towering old trees stood sentinel. Dark green evergreen shrubs, a variety of brightly colored flowers and ground covering phlox in pink, white, and purple completed the welcoming landscape. A few of the large windows, she now noticed, were edged by stained glass squares that captured the light as they drove up. The overall effect was an invitation to homey comfort with the added touch of southern charm and warmth.
Hearts Key Page 10
