“The opening prayer. I haven’t had much time to prepare so wish me luck.”
“Something tells me you won’t need luck. You have God on your side.” Natalie smiled before pushing her last bite of burger into her mouth.
Devin stepped on the wood platform holding a microphone. He felt like he was about to perform in a junior-high talent show. Devin tapped the mic, getting the attention of most of the 12-17-year-olds.
“Welcome all to Kingsvale Christian Summer Camp. Surprise – I’m not Reverend Sawyer because he had a family emergency which prevented him from joining us this summer. Please remember him in your prayers, that he may find the strength to overcome whatever obstacle he has before him. Reverend Natalie Steele and I will be leading the Christian Fellowship, and both of us feel blessed to be with you. There will be five Bible study classes during the week and regular service on Sunday. I'm sure your counselors will keep you busy, but if you need to talk, we are here for you. Our cabins are on the southern bank of the lake.
This year camp started with a tragic accident. Max Gamble is safe in the arms of God, but we are left to grieve. God didn’t provide us with instructions on how to grieve. All I know is to ask God how to navigate this turbulent time – rely on his strength. Read Proverbs 15:14 before bed tonight, and you’ll realize that with God’s wisdom you can overcome any sadness or trial. I trust you all brought your bibles – if not Reverend Steele, and I have plenty of extras. I’d like everyone to close their eyes and say a personal prayer for the family of Max Gamble…”
After a speech about loss and recovery, followed by a pep talk, Devin made his way back to his cabin.
On the way, he ran into Chef Tommy’s and Digby black lab with a gray muzzle. He was the unofficial mascot of the camp. Devin gave him a scratch behind the ears. They say DOG is God backward; all dogs go to heaven and dogs are a man’s best friend. Digby made all those sayings make sense. Tommy lost his wife years earlier, and that dog pulled him out of his grief in many ways.
***
“I’m going to have a cup of tea on the porch if you’d like to join me, Reverend,” Natalie said.
“Sounds perfect, Natalie." Devin popped into his cabin and picked up the homemade cookies the campers had made and left on his bed. A cup of tea and a sweet were just what the Reverend needed after a chaotic day.
“I’m glad you joined me because I wanted to mention a couple of things. You said that everyone grieves in different ways. Todd and Javon were joking and smiling as they heard you mention Max Gamble’s death. It seemed off to me,” Natalie said.
Devin smiled. “I’ve known those boys for a long time because they attend Bible study and church services in Kingsvale. They’re 13-year-old boys, and that’s how they act regardless of what’s going on around them. Sadness will come, to draw it out of them isn’t fair and might be harmful. I wouldn’t read much into it, but I’ll tuck that nugget of information in the back of my mind.”
“I guess I should get used to their behavior. Caleb will be 13 someday.” Natalie took a sip of her chamomile tea. “I couldn’t help notice the dog tags.”
“I served as an Army Chaplain in Afghanistan and then Germany. I’ve witnessed a lot of pain and hope that I was able to bring God into the lives of the men and women serving. I had at least a dozen soldiers a week come to me in a crisis of faith. I impressed upon them that God has never left their side even when all hope is lost.”
“I’m comforted by the fact the John, my husband, had strong faith.” A tear made its way down Natalie’s porcelain cheek.
“As I mentioned regarding Max Gamble, those who pass are safe with God – we are the ones left with all the grief. I hope talking about it provides relief,” Devin said.
Natalie wiped her tear away and managed a smile. “More than you know Devin, but I have to admit that sometimes I hear only words. Even if they’re the words of God – they don’t always make it through.”
“I get it,” Devin said. There were times even the word of God didn’t cut it. You had to have the faith to hang in there until it did.
Chapter Four
A boy drowned while in the company of an expert swimmer. A lifeguard was on duty. The father of the deceased was not acting normal. What the heck was going on?
Samantha Vance knocked on Devin’s cabin door bright and early. “Hey, Cousin. I’ve been on the job for two hours already. I’m here at your request – get out of bed.”
Devin pulled on a robe as he climbed out of bed. He was in the habit of wearing only his skivvies to bed. “I think I over-reacted. Jake Gamble has had overnight to think about things, and he’ll probably realize Max drowning was a tragic accident.”
Sam shook her head, indicating that it wasn’t the case. “Kyle Landon was brought in overnight and been released to his parents when they found no negligence or malicious intent. Mr. Gamble isn’t buying it, and he’s going for Manslaughter. He’s loud, and the courts just might listen. The Lake Winnipesaukee Police are allowing Kingsvale to take the case into our jurisdiction, so I’m on it.”
“At least that’s a bit of good news – Kyle isn’t behind bars,” Devin said as he started to brew coffee.
“Not really, Devin. You weren’t the only one looking forward to enjoying their summer. I’m considering blocking your calls.” Sam would never do that, but she liked making the threat.
Devin felt terrible for Kyle. His life would be permanently altered by a manslaughter conviction. He was 18 and would be tried as an adult. He could hope for probation and community service, but the black mark of a conviction would always be with him.
“I’m interviewing Todd and Javon this afternoon. They know you from Kingsvale and have developed a rapport with you – care to join?”
“I’ll be there, Sam. Thanks for the heads up.”
***
The communication and tech tent was receiving a massive delivery, and there was a line of campers waiting at the door.
“What’s happening over there?” Devin asked Natalie who he ran into on the way to grab breakfast.
“There were a lot of kids having a difficult time coping with the death of Max Gamble. They were calling home begging to return to their families. The parents and board of directors ramp up with access to technology as a comfort tool.”
“The campers are going to be allowed to play video games at camp?” Devin asked incredulously. Natalie shrugged her shoulders. “There is no right way to deal with a loss but, that’s the lazy way out, and the children won’t be dealing with anything. They’ll just be pushing their feelings deep inside, and, at some point, those feelings will be exposed.”
Devin was so mad he kicked the ground, creating a cloud of dust. “Many of those games are violent – I wouldn’t say they’re exactly Christian.”
"I agree, Devin. Real answers can be found in scripture, not on screens," Natalie placed her hand on Devin's arm and tried to calm him when Chef Tommy came running towards them.
"What's up, Tommy? A problem in the kitchen?" Devin asked.
Chef Tommy was out of breath. His nascent exercise routine was a work in progress. “Digby stepped on a piece of glass. I tried to pull it out with a piece of tweezers, but I’m afraid I made it worse. He let me pick at the thing because he’s such a patient animal, but there’s a reason I’m a chef and not a vet.” Tommy laughed. “I’m taking him to the veterinarian’s office in Kingsvale.
Devin laughed. “Are you ok, Tommy? Sit down over here and take a deep breath.” Devin directed. Tommy underwent triple-bypass the previous year, and Devin worried that the short run would be harmful to his recovery.
Sam got the particulars from Chef Tommy, and the nurse at the camp took his blood pressure. “It’s not that bad, Tommy but no triathlons for a while,” Devin joked
Devin realized he was about to be late for Bible study. Now more than ever, the kids of Kingsvale Christian Summer Camp needed guidance.
“Tommy, you and Digby should consider staying in Kingsval
e for the night. Rushing back to camp when you don’t have to isn’t necessary.” Devin asked before heading out. They spent hours together working through his wife’s death from cancer, and he knew him to have a delicate soul.
“My son Benjamin is in Kingsvale, and I can stay the night with him. Who’s going to handle dinner for 80 kids?” Tommy asked. He never thought of himself first.
“I’ll handle it – don’t worry.” Devin didn’t think much before the words escaped his mouth. God help me!
Chapter Five
If the kids were free to have so much screen time, where the heck were the parents? Devin wasn’t a father, but there seemed as if there was a major disconnect. What was it?
Devin was rushing across the lawn when Mrs. Gamble waved him down. “Reverend Grant, I’m happy I ran into you. Do you have a moment?”
“I always have time, but if this regards services for Max, Patty at the church can help you better than I can because she’s in Kingsvale,” Devin said as he checked his watch.
“The funeral plans have been finalized. I wanted to discuss my husband Jake’s behavior.”
Devin put up his index finger. “Hold on.” He dialed Natalie. “Would you mind taking over my Bible study class for today; I’ll owe you.” He listened and smiled. “God Bless, you’re the best, Natalie.” Devin placed his phone in his back pocket. “Let’s go for a walk along the lake shore, Mrs. Gamble, or Polly, if I may?”
“Polly works for me; is Devin OK with you?”
Devin nodded and smiled. “I know Kyle Landon has been a target of Jake’s. I understand the need to blame someone for his son’s death. God would not let this happen to Max – right?”
“Yes. Jake has to place the blame on someone because Max was a Christian young man and couldn’t have been allowed by God to die. Didn’t Jesus die for our sins?” Polly asked.
“He did, and He brought Max along to God. We have to trust in the Lord and not question his intentions. Blaming Kyle, if he did not have malicious intent and he didn’t act out of recklessness, is of no use. God has a plan for us all,” Devin said.
“Is there another reason, Polly, why Jake is lashing out?” Devin asked. “It seems to be that there’s something you’re holding back. Just so you know, I’m not a marriage counselor, but the church has one of those on staff.”
Polly laughed. "Oh no. Jake and I argue, but we love each other. I'm busy as a third-grade teacher, and lately Jake has taken on a large class-action lawsuit at his firm. Jake is feeling guilty because recently, he hasn't had much free time to spend with Max." Polly started to cry. "I'm telling you this because I don't want you to judge Jake harshly. I'm hoping his venomous attitude toward Kyle diminishes.”
"Every person reacts to tragedy differently, and with time, Jake will act more like himself. The loss of Max will be with him forever, but with the help of friends, family, and God, he'll find a place for it in his day-to-day life. What was Max doing while you and Jake were occupied with work – just curious."
“Video games. I hate to admit it, but we were becoming more relaxed when it came to screen time. Kingdom X was his favorite game. It seemed harmless and something everyone could play. It promoted team building, I think. I’m sure you’ll hear about it this summer.” Polly started to cry again. “Do you think I’ll ever be able to go into Max’s bedroom and not completely lose it. I’ve made the room off-limits because I want everything as Max left it like he’s coming back.”
“If you still need help when I finish at Lake Winnipesaukee, I’ll help you go through Max’s things. There’s no timetable, Polly. You’ll go through Max's room when you're ready; Keep what you want, and the rest will find a home at a worthy charity. Never hesitate to call Patty at the church in Kingsvale.”
"Thank you, Reverend."
***
Devin found Natalie on the porch when he arrived at his cabin to change for dinner. With Tommy’s dog and the unexpected visit with Polly, his day did not go as planned. Life as an Army Chaplain and now ministering to a small town prepared him for chaos. Over the years, he had gotten quite good at it, and any other way would be boring.
“How was Bible study?” Devin asked. He felt bad for throwing so much in Natalie’s lap so soon.
“Uneventful.”
“So, I’m taking it went smoothly. I would have thought it was emotional because of Max’s drowning. One never knows how tweens and teens will react,” Devin said as he sat down in the wooden rocker next to hers.”
Natalie shook her head. "Less than half the kids showed up because they were playing video games. Who's the Einstein who recommended screen time as a tool for comfort. You and I could have doubled our efforts and taught them more about the Lord and Christian ways to handle a loss."
“I should have been there. It must have been tough to handle this alone. Competing with video games is an impossible task. I will try not to throw my work at you in the future, Natalie. It wasn’t very Christian of me.”
“Don’t be silly. We’re here to back each other up, and I’m sure there will be a time I ask for your help?” Natalie asked.
“Sam, my cousin-the police detective, is coming by tomorrow. She might as well set up a cot in my cabin because now she has two cases at Lake Winnipesaukee. I would never have thought this serene location could devolve into tragedy.”
“It’s unsettling Devin, would you be open to praying with me. It always helps.”
“Absolutely, Natalie, Take it away.”
They joined hands as Natalie spoke from the heart.
“Bless us God and Guide us through this turbulent time. Provide us with the strength to follow the path of peace and bring others to be in harmony with you oh Lord. Hold Max gently in your arms, Amen. Oh, and please take care of good ole Digby and his injured paw.
I was nervous coming up with a prayer in front of a Reverend who has so much experience.” Natalie blushed.
"You make it sound like I'm an old man; not too many years separate us." Devin chuckled. "You did fabulously. It was just what I needed after a long day. We should get going to dinner.”
“If the kids don’t peel themselves away from their screens for taco night. Then we have a big problem on our hands.”
Devin made his way to the dining tent early because he knew somehow, he had to prepare tacos for 80 kids. Tommy said helpers would be available and he prayed that was true.
Chapter Six
Sam nearly spilled her coffee as she got out of the car. Things appeared increasingly sinister regarding the drowning of Max Gamble. The coroner’s report revealed the most shocking evidence yet.
Sam walked on the porch with three coffees she’d picked up in town, realizing Devin had a co-pastor for the summer.
“I brought the two of you some coffee,” Sam said as she approached the pair. “I’m Samantha Vance.”
“Natalie Steele. I just made a cup of tea but thank you. I’m sharing the pastoral duties with Devin this summer. He asked me to join you two if that’s ok?”
“Yes, I’m happy my cousin has some help this summer. He has a bit of a superman complex – thinks he can do it all,” Sam said as she turned her head and saw Devin leaning on the porch post.
He was smiling and heard everything. “You have to understand, Natalie, Sam and I grew up together. We’re more like siblings than cousins, and sometimes I get on her nerves.”
Sam laughed. “I’m not arguing with that one. He tends to forget that he’s the Reverend and I’m the police officer, but all-in-all, it works out.”
Devin grabbed the paper cup of coffee and transferred it into his sturdy mug. “Find anything out by talking to Todd and Javon?”
“Sit down, Devin, because I’ve found out more than I hoped for regarding the ‘accidental’ drowning of Max Gamble.” Sam used air quotes to make her point.
“Your saying Max’s drowning was caused by someone else.” Devin looked at her intently. “Kyle Landon was accused of dereliction of duty, but I don’t think you�
�re talking about that.”
Natalie was listening closely as she sipped her chamomile tea. This was like nothing she had been exposed to in Ashland. She braced for more turbulence.
“The coroner in Kingsvale found abrasions on Max’s shoulders and abdomen. They were unnoticed at first but finding them has changed everything.”
“Could Max have gotten his injuries from being a 13-year old boy. They hardly go a day without getting their fair share of bumps and bruises. I’ve always said that if someday God blesses me with a son, I’m encasing him in bubble wrap.”
“I went to my boss, Devin.”
Devin was shocked. “Sam, you never go to the commissioner.”
“I can investigate his friends, Todd and Javon. Maybe some type of altercation occurred in the water. My other option is to look into Mr. and Mrs. Gamble for possible abuse. Jake Gamble has a heck of a temper, but he’s also on the Kingsvale town council,” Sam said as she drained her cup of coffee.
“Who gives a heck if he’s a New Hampshire Senator?”
“My quandary is twofold: one, Mr. Gamble is high profile and two, I don’t want to question young boys unnecessarily.” Sam looked pleadingly at Devin. “Can you help?”
“Of course, I can Sam, but you must see the humor in the shoe being on the other foot. I’m always the one asking for your help.” Devin jokingly jabbed Sam in the arm. “The boys will be more willing to talk to me rather than a police detective. The same goes for Jake Gamble.”
"If you could feel them out before I have to visit in an official capacity, it would save me the headache and a lot of hurt feelings if I'm wrong." Sam looked at Natalie who was sitting quietly with a deer-in-the-headlights-look on her face. “Are you wishing you never heard of Kingsvale Christian Summer Camp?”
Natalie chuckled. “God called me here to minister to the youth. I’m happy I listened to my call.”
Summer Camp Murder Page 2
