Page 155 of The Deadly Shallows

He placed a kiss on her forehead. Soon it’ll be our home. He just needed the ring.

SEVENTY-THREE

ONE WEEK LATER

MOLLY’S HOMETOWN

The sun was a welcome sight at Molly’s memorial service after the dismal previous two days of rain they’d endured in Wilmington. Brooke and Noah had flown into Molly’s hometown the night before and would be flying out that evening. Standing over a loved one’s grave had been hard enough. Doing it in the pouring rain would have been harder still—the heaviness of rain only adding to the weight of sorrow. But because Molly was a believer and home with Jesus, in no pain and rejoicing at her Savior’s side, it was also inspiring and joyful.

Brooke had bawled as they played Brad Paisley’s “When I Get Where I’m Going.” It was such a beautiful song, reminding Brooke every time she heard it of the joy and reunion to come. One day she’d see Molly again, and they’d laugh and talk as if they’d never been apart. But until then, she’d remember her friend with fond heartfelt memories.

As they headed for the rental car, she clutched Noah’s arm tighter, the events of the past couple of weeks racing through her mind.

“You okay?” he asked.

She nodded as tears smarted.

He pulled off one of his black leather gloves and clasped her hand. “I’m right here, always.”

“I know.” And she was so grateful.

Thank You, Jesus, for blessing me with this strong, steady man. Having him by my side today and your Holy Spirit inside of me helped me celebrate Molly’s life the way she would have wanted, rather than falling to pieces in sorrow. You have upheld me by your righteous right hand. Thank you, Jesus.

Austin had insisted on hanging the Christmas lights across the top of her porch herself. She wouldn’t let Caleb help, other than to hold the ladder, but part of him—a big part—loved that about her. Loved her. He’d never thought, when she’d burst into his life, inserting herself into their case, that he’d fall for the headstrong woman. Forget fall—try plummet, in the best possible way. As he held the ladder for her, she held his heart.

Okay, Eason, that was way too sappy. Focus on holding the ladder so she stays steady.

He looked up at her stringing the old-fashioned, multicolored bulbs along the lipped edge of her front porch. She wore white leggings, a navy sweater, and brown UGG boots.

“Later, you can hold the ladder while I put the angel on top of the tree,” she teased.

“And you can do the same when we decorate my tree,” he teased back.

“We’ll discuss that after I get down.”

“Take your time.” He offered a charming smile as she glanced back over her shoulder at him. “I’m quite enjoying the view.”

Her eyes opened wide, but in a playful, surprised way. “Agent Eason!”

He smirked. “I can’t help it if the view is stunning.”

“I’m not sure if I should be offended or flattered.”

“I think kissed is a better option.”

“Oh, you do, do you?”

“Most definitely.”

Grinning the entire way, she climbed down the ladder and into his arms.

He kissed her with all the passion sparking inside, then pulled back slightly. “I love you,” he said, hoping she didn’t think it too soon.

She bit her bottom lip, then smiled. “I love you too.”

Relief swelled inside. He’d said he wasn’t ready to get married yet, and that still held true, but finding the woman he’d one day marry—well, that search seemed over as he held Austin in his arms.

Dirk and Jaxon pawed at her front window, barking to come out and join them. Who would have ever thought he’d adopt another dog? But Jaxon had taken to him, and truth be told, the goofball mop of a pup had already stolen a piece of his heart.