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Chapter Eleven
Letty
I pull into the parking lot of Destiny of Life Church and let out a groan when I spot two motorcycles parked on opposite ends of the lot. He’s still here. I mean, they’re still here.
They, as in the Reckless Souls, have practically taken up residence inside the church for the past week. I’m sure they have a good reason. Pastor Braden assures me they do, but I don’t know what that reason is. Even though the other two, Preacher and Jordi, are nice enough guys, their presence unsettles me.
And Shades? His presence is the most unsettling of all.
I like him, and that’s a problem. He’s all wrong for me. Oh, and other than compliments he’s given, no indication that he actually has any interest in me. Which makes me feel foolish. And arrogant. All I know is that his being in the church for the past week has left me feeling discombobulated, and I don’t like it.
As I make my way to my office, now sporting a few more personal items, I mentally prepare my talk to Pastor Braden about the bikers. I don’t need a prepared speech, just a list of the things on my mind. When I have it all clear in my head, I bypass my office and head straight to his, knocking quickly before I lose my nerve.
“Good morning, Pastor Braden.”
He smiles up at me, patience shining in his eyes.
“Letty, you’re a grown woman now and an employee. Don’t you think it’s time you call me Frank?”
I frown and shake my head. “That doesn’t seem right, but if you prefer, then that’s what I’ll call you.”
Don’t let him distract you, Letty. Stand your ground.
“I don’t mind either way. I just wanted you to know that I’m not one to stand on ceremony.”
“I understand that, but would it be weird if I called you Frank on Sunday? Or Wednesday?”
He stares at me for a long time, and I can feel the weight of his perusal on the side of my face.
“You have a point. Pastor it is.”
“Thank you.” I smile and give a slight nod. “Uhm…I was thinking…” I pause, not knowing how to get this out without offending anyone.
“Something on your mind, Letty?”
“Yes, there is, and I’m glad you asked. Do you find it disconcerting to have the Reckless Souls hanging around all day, every single day?”
“No, I do not. They’re doing what it takes to protect the church, and I find that admirable.”
Admirable? Now, who’s full of it?
“Even if they’re protecting the church for selfish reasons?”
I still don’t have all the details, but I know what bags of cash mean. I’ve seen the movies and read the books.
“Yes, Letty, even then. We all have our own selfish reasons for being here, for worshipping the way we do. For me, spreading the word is a calling. I couldn’t do anything but this. Why are you here?”
I think about his words for a long time, longer than I should have, I’m afraid.
“I’m here because I believe in God, and I want to learn from you how to be a better Christian and a better person.”
“Why?”
I blink. “What do you mean why?”
“Why do you want that?”
His question makes me uncomfortable, but I answer anyway. “Because I want to do better in this world, as much good as I can before my time is over.”
