Lightning and Lace by DiAnn Mills Page A

at all. He’s a peaceful boy, always wanting to please.” She hesitated. “Michael Paul cried at his father’s funeral. Zack has never shed a tear.”
    Brother Travis appeared to ponder her words. “Have you two talked about how he feels about losing his father?”
    His question probed deeper than she wanted to think. “I have had such a grievous period since Ben’s death that I—” A tear slipped down her cheek, then another. “I have neglected my children. I’m ashamed to admit this, but if Zack had wanted to talk to me, I probably wouldn’t have been able to listen.”
    Brother Travis pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and handed it to her. Their fingers brushed, and she realized that she had not touched another man aside from the reverend and her brothers since Ben’s death.
    “Thank you. Seems you always have a supply of handkerchiefs. I have your other one done up.”
    “Glad to be of service.” He shifted. “Perhaps I should go since this is upsetting you.”
    “Please stay. This is for Zack, and I need to help my son.” She dabbed the handkerchief to her nose. “How is he?”
    “Oh, about the same. I have his time scheduled so he won’t be idle. He has a sharp mind, and I think with time we’ll make progress. What are some of his favorite pastimes?”
    “Fishing is his favorite. He liked riding with his father, and Ben had been teaching him to use a rifle and hunt. I gave him his father’s Springfield, one from the War Between the States. But it has a nasty recoil.”
    He nodded. “Good. I want to reward him with those things.”
    “Has he asked about us?”
    “No. Right now he’s getting used to me. I think once we’re moved tomorrow, we’ll make more progress.”
    “He is so angry with me.”
    Brother Travis shook his head. “I don’t think he’s angry with you. I believe his bad feelings are aimed toward himself.” He paused. “Is there any reason why Zack would blame himself for his father’s passing?”
    How horrible. “Absolutely not. Ben had a lung ailment. There was nothing anyone could have done. Have you had experience with a situation like ours before?”
    “No. I’m simply counting on God to lead me. I want to help your son, and I won’t give up. I’ve said this before, but I believe a boy needs to be with his family.”
    His compassion caressed her heart. What a dear man. “I sincerely appreciate what you’re doing—and for the handkerchief. I’ll have it done up for you.”
    He stood, rather awkwardly. “Thank you, Mrs. Kahler. I sincerely didn’t mean to upset you. I hope you don’t expect a change in your son too soon. My guess is that it will take awhile.”
    “I understand.” The heartache over losing Ben had taken longer to conquer than she’d ever anticipated. “I’d like to apologize for the way I treated you when we first met.”
    “Well, I look more like a tramp than a man of God.” He smiled. “I’ll be leaving now.” At the door he hesitated, then slowly turned around. “Michael Paul is quite fond of music. I suggested to him that we might sing together for a service, but we need your permission.”
    A sweetness floated through her. “He loves music, and I think it’s a fine idea. I’ll let him know.”
    “He’s a fine boy, too. All of your children are good.”
    Bonnie needed to hear those words. The town’s new preacher was a true blessing. If he looked half as good as the soothing sound of his voice, then he’d be one fine-looking man. She silently questioned why he kept all of that hair. Maybe he felt kin to John the Baptist or one of the ancient prophets. Instantly, she warmed at her thoughts.
    “You are welcome anytime you choose to visit. Thomas said the roof never looked better.”
    He laughed, a cheery sound. Reminded her of peace and wisdom and children, all in one. “I’ll make sure the reverend or your mother accompanies me the next time I come. I wouldn’t want folks talking.”
    Oh, please, Lord, don’t