Love's Providence: A Contemporary Christian Romance

by Jennifer H. Westall

  October 24

  Birmingham, Alabama

  “Here’s your phone.”

  Lily glanced up from her Abstract Algebra notes as Emily took a seat across from her in the campus food court and slid her phone across the table.

  “Thanks.” She barely glanced at it as she shoved away her notes and leaned back in her chair.

  Emily winced. “How did your test go?”

  “Terrible, I’m sure.”

  “At least it’s over.”

  Lily leaned forward and grabbed her phone, turning it on to check the time. As the screen came to life, several chimes sounded in a row.

  “Lots of messages,” Emily said, taking a bite of a French fry. “Three guesses who they’re from, and the first two don’t count.”

  Lily scrolled through the messages, noting the frustration that colored Alex’s texts. She’d been so focused on her test this morning, she hadn’t thought to respond to his messages from the night before. Her stomach knotted knowing he’d be upset with her.

  “I should call him,” she said.

  Emily shrugged and continued eating. Lily grabbed her things and shoved them into her backpack. She told Emily she’d catch up with her later then headed out through the student center toward the Math and Science building.

  She pulled out her phone to call Alex, but noticed she still had one more notification, an email to her student account. She opened her email application and glanced through it. She clicked through the junk mail, the last one from the Baptist Student Union.

  Be careful whom you play with. I’m always watching.

  ~God

  She stopped walking and read the email again. What an odd message, and she’d never even been to a meeting at a Baptist Student Union. It had to be some kind of joke or mistake. She wondered if anyone else had gotten one.

  She deleted it, and then she dialed Alex’s cell. Her stomach tightened again.

  Chapter Twenty

  October 28

  Brunswick, Georgia

  Alex walked up to the window of the ramshackle building that served the best hot dogs in town and ordered his usual two chili cheese dogs. Then he made his way over to the wooden table in the shade where Steve awaited him, already half-way through his sandwich. He took a seat and grabbed a French fry from Steve’s plate.

  “What’s up?”

  Steve smirked at the swiped fry. “Thanks for meeting me. How you been?”

  “Pretty good. I’m working on a burglary over at the mall.”

  “I heard you solved the Sea Island case. Nice job. How much did those guys get away with? Something like a quarter of a million, right?”

  “Yeah.”

  Steve grinned. “Not too shabby for your first case.”

  “Just the beginning, my friend.”

  Steve looked around, so Alex followed his gaze. Three women were seated at another wooden table behind him, just beside the hot dog shack. But otherwise, the place was deserted. The only sounds were the few cars driving past and the frogs down at the creek behind the parking lot. As a cool breeze lifted the Spanish moss from the branches nearby, Alex took a closer look at Steve.

  “Everything okay with you?” he asked.

  Steve folded his arms across the table, looking desperate to say something. But he looked very uncomfortable about it.

  “Maybe you should give Chloe a call soon.”

  So that’s what this was all about. Alex had figured as much, but he’d hoped to have a relaxing lunch with his friend without getting into sore topics. He had no idea what to say.

  “Maybe,” he offered.

  “She misses you.”

  Alex cleared his throat. “Is that why you wanted to meet for lunch? To plead her case?”

  Steve sighed and looked around again. “Well, no, actually. I need to talk to you about something else.”

  “Sure, what’s going on?” Alex grinned. “You miss me? Maybe I can talk to the Chief, and we’ll see about making you a detective.”

  Steve shook his head. “Alex, I’m serious. I need to tell you about something, but it could get me in trouble…you too.”

  He had never seen his friend so concerned. He looked worried. And Steve never worried.

  “What’s going on?” he asked.

  Steve leaned forward and lowered his voice. “You know Hoffman?”

  “Of course.”

  “He told me something the other day…something he shouldn’t be telling me, but he knows we’re friends, and it’s probably nothing, but still…You need to keep this to yourself.”

  Alex’s nerves tightened. He didn’t like the connections forming in his mind. Hoffman, Internal Affairs, privileged information—none of it sounded good.

  “Just tell me what’s going on,” Alex said.

  “Hoffman says they got an anonymous tip from the department website—some female claiming that you sexually harassed her during an interview.”

  “What?”

  Steve raised a hand as if to calm him. “Don’t get upset. They know it wasn’t real. At least Hoffman says they’re not going to open a case on it.”

  “I don’t understand.” Alex racked his brain trying to remember when he’d interviewed a female. No one came to mind.

  “They were able to come up with an IP address, and it came back to an Andrew Carter in Alabama.” Steve paused as the words sank in.

  “Alabama? But…”

  “Look, I don’t know all the details. But what I do know is that whoever was assigned to check out the story decided it was most likely untrue. But you know how these things go. It’s in your file, and if anything suspicious ever happens…”

  “Yeah, I know. But none of this makes sense. I don’t think I’ve even interviewed a female. I mean, there were some maids working in the Sea Island houses that I talked to, but none of them alone.”

  Steve folded his arms over his chest, looking cautious. “I hate to point out the obvious, but you and I both know only one person from Alabama.”

  “It couldn’t be her. Lily wouldn’t do something like that.”

  “Is everything okay with you two?” Steve raised an eyebrow.

  “Yes. Definitely.”

  “Do you know anyone named Andrew Carter?”

  “No, but I’m going to find out. Did Hoffman give you the IP address?”

  “Hey, man. I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

  Alex pressed his fist down onto the table and tried to stay calm. “I have a right to know who this person is. They’re messing with my career here.”

  Steve sighed and looked around again, like he was expecting uniformed officers to come around the corner and arrest him at any moment.

  “Just promise me you’ll keep your cool.”

  “Of course I will. You know me.”

  After everyone else had cleared out for the day, Alex sat at his desk still chewing on what Steve had told him. He couldn’t just search out information on someone when they weren’t really connected to any of his cases, but he had to know who made that tip. He wouldn’t be able to use the department’s databases or search software, but maybe he could still get what he needed.

  He started with a simple search through White Pages, and found four listings for an Andrew Carter in Birmingham, Alabama. He glanced through the addresses, none looking familiar. Then he read through the list of associated people for each one. And right away he saw it.

  At first, he couldn’t believe it. He leaned back in his chair, looking at the names again. It had to be him. But what was he trying to accomplish?

  He sat up straight again and went back to the computer, pulling up the CLEAR website and logging in. It might not be exactly legal, he wasn’t sure. But he had to find out exactly who he was dealing with before he went charging in.

  Just as he typed in the name, his personal phone vibrated on his belt. He pulled it out and glanced at it—a text from a number he didn’t recognize. Actually, he realized, it wasn’t a text. It was a picture.

>   He did a reverse search of the number, and this time wasn’t surprised at the information. This guy had some nerve. First coming after his job, and now what?

  He opened the picture, and at first he couldn’t make out what he was seeing. Then, slowly, the image cleared. His blood raced through his head, and he threw the phone against the wall.

  “You’re going out to another club?” Alex leaned back against the couch and stared at the ceiling, trying not to shatter his phone’s guts again. This was getting ridiculous. Something wasn’t right here.

  “It’s just a Halloween party downtown,” Lily said. “I’ve been going since I was in high school.”

  “To clubs?”

  “Well not that part. But the clubs are the most fun. Why does it bother you when I go out with my friends?”

  “I don’t care if you go out with your friends. It’s that you’re going to places that aren’t safe. Why can’t you go out to a movie or something?”

  “Stop giving me a hard time. I’ve been really stressed. Mid-terms are finally over, and I just want to go out and enjoy myself a little.”

  “Like you did last week?”

  “What is that supposed to mean?”

  He sat up straight again. Maybe he was wrong.

  “Did you go to the club last week with a guy?”

  “What? No! Why would you think that?”

  He reached up and massaged his forehead. If she would just tell him the truth, he could deal with it. But not lies.

  “So you did not go out dancing with a guy last week?”

  “Alex, you’re acting strange. Where is this coming from?”

  She was avoiding the question. It had to be true then.

  “I just want you to be careful. You never know anything about the people you meet in those places.”

  “I don’t hang out with strangers. Trust me, I only stick with the people I know.”

  So she knew him. Someone from school maybe. It could have been Jackson for all he knew. That would explain everything.

  “Lily, are you sure you want to be with me?”

  “Yes. Why are you asking all these questions?”

  “I’m just concerned about you.” He looked down at the picture he’d printed out at work after reassembling his phone, unable to erase the image and all its implications from his mind. It was a little dark, but the couple in the center of the photo was clear enough. They were dancing together, laughing like they shared a secret. It sent a wave of fury through his core.

  Who was that dancing with Lily?

  October 31

  Birmingham, Alabama

  “You’ve been sitting there for nearly an hour,” Emily yelled at her over the pulsating music. “When are you coming out here?”

  Lily looked over the dance floor, packed full of people enjoying themselves. At least, they appeared to be enjoying themselves. How many others were drowning their consciences with her? She should have worn a costume—like that girl by the bar dressed as a witch, with hideous moles all over her face. Then at least her outside would match the ugliness of her inside.

  “Hello! Earth to Lily!” Emily stood in front of their table with her hands on her hips. She had come as Cat Woman. It was so cliché. And so Emily.

  “I just need to warm up to the music for a bit. You know that.”

  Emily rolled her eyes. “Whatever. You want anything to drink? I’m heading over there.”

  “A coke.”

  A smirk slipped across Emily’s lips, and Lily pointed a finger at her.

  “No funny business tonight, Em. Straight coke.”

  “Okay.” Emily threw her hands up. Then she turned and weaved her way into the crowd.

  Lily’s head vibrated in time with the beat, and her throat ached from the smoke. This was a bad idea. She needed to be in her dorm room right now buried in her Bible and begging God for forgiveness. She was just making things worse. But she felt like she had as a kid when she’d crashed her bike into a ditch full of thorn bushes. She could see the pit coming, and that her path was headed straight for it. But she’d frozen, and fell tumbling into the prickly shrubs.

  She was sick of feeling like this, sick of arguing with Alex, sick of herself. She was ruining everything. He wouldn’t even return her phone calls today. He was probably sick of her too.

  Suddenly a large hand slapped her on the back, rocketing her breath out of her lungs.

  “Lil! Whatcha doing over here by yourself?”

  T.J. fell into the seat next to her and slid his drink onto the table. His eyes were already getting red, and his cheeks were flushed and damp with sweat. His smile spread from one adorable dimple to the other. He was a happy drunk.

  She couldn’t help but smile back. She leaned toward him to avoid more yelling than necessary.

  “Just waiting for you to come sweep me out onto the dance floor.”

  “Awww. I’d love to, but Em’s wearing me out!”

  “I can see that.”

  She let her gaze wander around the club again while T.J. slumped further in his seat. She watched the couples on the dance floor and tried not to notice the ones groping each other. Some people had no regard for others’ gag reflexes.

  Finally Emily came back with their drinks and took a seat beside T.J. as she slid Lily’s across the table. But before Lily could even take a sip, T.J. elbowed her in the ribs, nearly knocking it out of her hands.

  “Hey, isn’t that your boy Jackson over there?”

  She turned to see where he was looking, and felt her stomach lurch into her chest. It was him alright, weaving through the crowd near the back of the club. She watched him walk across the room, his movements so familiar they struck her like blows to the gut. What was he doing here?

  Then she noticed the blond walking behind him, her hands tucked into the back pockets of his jeans, and it wasn’t just any blond. It was Addison Thomas. She’d know that relentlessly perky ponytail anywhere. With her long neck and angled chin, she reminded Lily of a praying mantis.

  Jackson’s eyes locked on Lily’s, and he gave her a slight nod. She averted her gaze to Emily.

  “Are they coming over here?”

  “I think so,” she said.

  She glanced toward the back again. Sure enough. He and Addison were headed for their table, though Addison looked less than enthused. Jackson never took his eyes off Lily.

  “Hi,” he said when they finally reached the table.

  “Hi.” Her voice barely squeaked out.

  They stared at each other for an excruciating minute before T.J.’s voice boomed through the tension.

  “Hey, J-man! Pull up a seat.”

  Jackson looked at Lily like he was waiting for her approval, and she forced a smile. Then he pulled up two chairs and sat down.

  “This is Addison,” he said to no one in particular. He gave Lily a pointed look. “You remember Addy, I’m sure.”

  There was a hint of triumph in Addison’s emerald eyes. It had taken six years, but she’d finally landed a date with Jackson. She snaked her arm through his and gave Lily the slightest smile. How subtle.

  “Yes, Addison. Of course I remember. How are you?”

  “Great. I’m finishing up my degree in December, then it’s on to medical school.”

  “Well, good luck with that.”

  Lily turned her attention back to the dance floor, ready to escape as soon as possible. She was about to stand when she heard T.J.’s question.

  “I thought I heard you might be playing in Atlanta?”

  Jackson glanced at Lily before answering.

  “Uh, yeah. I tried out for the Vision a couple of months ago and got invited back. I head over there in a few days as a matter of fact.”

  “That’s great,” T.J. continued. “Man, you had it rough last year. I didn’t think you’d make it back.”

  Jackson shrugged and moved his arm away from Addison’s.

  “I had my doubts. But things seem to be going well for now. It’s just the ABA,
but it’s a start.” He peeked over at Lily again. “I may even try my hand at some ball overseas.”

  “That’s sweet!” T.J. gave him a high five then chugged down another long gulp of his beer.

  “Overseas?” Lily asked, leaning forward in her chair. “When did this happen?”

  “A few weeks ago. It’s not for sure yet, and probably not until next summer. But Clayton said he could get me a tryout in Italy.”

  Italy? The Italy on the other side of the ocean? Last year he’d balked at the idea of playing in another country. It was too far from home—and her. Besides, he was terrified of flying. He’d pass out before he made it onto the plane.

  Addison slid a delicate hand up Jackson’s arm and gave his shoulder a pat.

  “He’ll be back home with a professional team in no time.”

  And a professional salary. Surely Jackson hadn’t forgotten what a snake she was.

  “So what are you going to do?” Lily asked. “Hop an ocean liner to get you there and back?”

  He shook his head and chuckled. “That’s a dilemma I’ll have to seriously consider.”

  Addison wrinkled her brow. Served her right. Did she think she could compete with twelve years of friendship and love? But the thought sacked Lily in the gut. Why on Earth would she be competing for Jackson? He was free to see whomever he wanted.

  But Addison Thomas?

  “Well,” Lily managed, “I’m glad to hear you’re playing again. That’s really great.”

  T.J. slapped his empty bottle onto the table and sighed. “Yep. Me too, J-Man. You deserve it.” He pushed himself up from the table. “I’m getting a refill. Anybody else need anything?”

  Emily stood. “I think I’ll join you.”

  They walked toward the bar, T.J. swerving through the crowd like someone kept tilting the room on him. She might have laughed if she didn’t feel like she’d swallowed a tangle of hot wires. Jackson leaned over and said something in Addison’s ear. She glanced at Lily, let out a huff, and then took off toward the bar.

  He didn’t even give Addison a second glance as she left. He just leaned back in his chair and watched Lily. It made her squirm. Did she look different?

  “So…Italy, huh?” she asked.