A Groom Worth Waiting For

“What’s there to see?” Matt joked. “I’m an open book.”

Amy looked from Matt to his aunt, suddenly feeling like the outsider. She’d been right, Matt was up to something. Impatiently, she stood, having had enough of the conversation. “If there’s something to be said, I wish someone would come out and say it. Otherwise, I’ve got to be going. While I appreciate your hospitality, I’ve got important matters to attend to.” Like finding a place to live and a decent job.

Matt opened his mouth, but didn’t say anything.

“Well,” Aunt Lila prodded. “Are you going to ask her or do I have to?”

“I’m not sure what you mean,” Matt said.

Aunt Lila rolled her eyes.

When Matt didn’t respond quickly enough to please Aunt Lila, she charged ahead. “It’s fairly simple, actually. I’m only a few days home from the hospital, and my family is worried that I’m overdoing it. They’ve tried to convince me to hire help, but until now I’ve refused.”

Amy nodded, beginning to understand the situation. “And your nephew knows I’m out of work, not to mention that I’d like to repay him for his courage.”

Matt leaned forward in his chair. “Well, it just seemed to me that you both—”

“What do you think, Amy?” Aunt Lila interrupted.

“I don’t know what to say. You don’t really know me.” And I don’t know you at all, she thought. Though the offer seemed to be the answer to her immediate problems, was it prudent to move into the home of a virtual stranger?

“We’ll need to exchange references, of course,” Aunt Lila said, taking charge. “We could give it a try. See if it works, and if it doesn’t, what harm has been done?”

Amy bit her lip. “I don’t want to sound ungrateful, but I need time to think this over.”

“I’d like to sleep on it, too. Let’s trade references now. That way we can both make an intelligent decision by tomorrow evening.”

Amy glanced at Matt, and by the amusement in his eyes knew the situation was as much out of his control as it was hers.

Amy was relieved when Matt didn’t talk on the drive back to the convenience store. He saw her safely to her car, then waited until she’d driven off. As she watched him through her rearview mirror, the oddest feeling overwhelmed her. She felt like she was leaving her best friend behind, and yet twenty-four hours ago she hadn’t even known him.

Forcing thoughts of Matt from her mind, she focused on the task at hand—securing a room for the night. When the hotel near the airport turned out to be more expensive than she felt she could afford, she passed it up. An hour later, she settled into a budget motel near the interstate. Despite the thin walls and veneer furniture, it was new and clean, and the woman who’d checked her in had assured Amy several times it was safe. Though the clerk didn’t come right out and say so, Amy had the distinct impression she’d recognized Amy from the news.

Only one day in town, and she’d already made a splash. This was hardly the fresh start she’d planned. Yet, there was much to be thankful for, and she wouldn’t forget that. She thanked God for safely seeing her through the day.

“And Lord, I know we haven’t been on the best of terms lately, but I’d really like to change that. I’m just not sure how. I know You haven’t abandoned me. You proved that today. Don’t give up on me. I’m really trying to find my way back to You.”

She sat for a few minutes in silence, and her thoughts turned to Teresa, her close friend from high school. They’d had a big falling out during their senior year, over a boy, of course, and hadn’t talked for months. And when they did try to rebuild their friendship, the first few meetings had been awkward and uncomfortable. Yet, she’d always known Teresa would have been there for her in a pinch if she’d really needed a friend. That was sort of the way she felt about God right now. When He’d sent Matt to protect her, He’d proved He hadn’t abandoned her. But the lines of communication remained strained, and it would take time and effort to get back to the level of faith and trust she’d treasured before her ex-fiancé had destroyed her innocence.

As for things between her and God, she had a lot of hope. However, it would be a long time, if ever, before she’d trust her heart to a man.

Those thoughts led her back to Matt and Aunt Lila’s proposal. But before she could even entertain their offer, she needed to decide whether or not she would stay in Lexington. She had no ties here. Maybe losing the job and apartment this morning that she’d secured two weeks ago on her initial visit, along with the robbery, were signs from God that she didn’t belong here.

But if she didn’t stay in Lexington, where would she go? Who was to say bad luck wouldn’t follow her wherever she went? A quick check of her wallet convinced her Lexington was the practical choice. She only had a limited amount of funds, and she didn’t want to spend her nest egg looking for another city and moving her belongings. She’d already seen how quickly the expenses added up. If she was going to make it, she needed to be settled with a job yesterday.

Maybe she was supposed to go home.

But she didn’t want to go back to Ohio.

And it wasn’t just because of the humiliation she felt every time she bumped into Garry in public, which in her small hometown was often. No, much more was at stake than her pride.

Between Garry’s betrayal and the robbery, she felt vulnerable and unsure of her own capabilities, and she needed to prove that she could take care of herself. That she could make it on her own. If she went back to Ohio, she’d never have the opportunity to prove this. Her parents, though well-meaning and loving, would shelter and protect her.

In the lonely motel room, she admitted to herself and God what she wouldn’t admit to anyone else. She was scared. But deep in her heart she knew this was a turning point in her life, and what she decided today would affect her forever. She could go back to the past she knew, or she could move forward to an uncertain but promising future.

Lost in silent prayer, she felt the peace that had eluded her for months. She would stay in Lexington.

But as she considered the pros and cons of Aunt Lila’s offer, that answer was not so clear.

Matt recognized the blue car as soon as it came into view, traveling slowly up the meandering driveway. He was certain Amy had returned in order to politely turn down his aunt’s offer. And why shouldn’t she? Taking care of Aunt Lila while she recuperated from surgery wasn’t exactly an exciting career move.

Latching the corral gate, Matt jogged toward the main house, leaving the horses and stables behind. In shape from the many hours he spent working outdoors, he wasn’t a bit winded by the time he reached Amy. Approaching her as she shut the car door, he realized how glad he was to see her.

“Hello,” he called.

Though Amy shielded her eyes from the late afternoon sun, she wasn’t able to conceal her surprise, and perhaps even her disappointment.

“I thought you’d be at work.” She turned away briefly. “I didn’t mean that like it sounded. It’s good to see you,” she added with false brightness.

Though he couldn’t be certain, he sensed she felt the same mixed emotions he did. It was crazy that a woman he’d just met could capture his interest so quickly, and he couldn’t help but wonder if she were the one. No, he had to let those thoughts go. He didn’t believe in love at first sight. Love took time to grow and mature, and as lonely as he was and ready to settle down, he wasn’t going to do anything foolish. Still, what harm would it do to take the time to get to know this woman? To find out if something special could grow between them.

Matt swallowed hard, his Adam’s apple sticking in his throat as he looked into Amy’s bewildered eyes and instantly knew that if she left today he’d never see her again. Oddly, that made him feel sad. Yet, if that was God’s plan, then it was for the best.

“This is such a lovely farm,” she said.

As her gaze wandered, he realized she was stalling. That perhaps her mind wasn’t made up.

“Are there any questions I can answer for you?” he asked.

Amy pursed her lips as she gave the matter serious thought. “We didn’t discuss specific terms yesterday. I really need to know more before I can make a decision.”

“Then you’re interested?”

Amy nodded. “Your family has a sterling reputation. I’d be remiss not to consider working for your aunt.”

“You checked us out?” Knowing she was treating this offer seriously pleased him.

“I called the references, plus I stopped at the library to do some research on the Internet. Your family seems well established and respected. I understand they’ve played an important role in Lexington’s past.”

“That’s true,” Matt said with pride. And he hoped to do his part by preserving the family property, where it all began.

“If you stay in Lexington, you’re bound to run into us Wynn cousins. We’re a pretty active bunch.”

“And about this job?” Amy asked, as if she had dismissed any qualms she might have felt concerning the family.

“Basically, we’d like you to live with Aunt Lila and oversee the house and her needs. Your job would include everything from light housework and fixing meals to making sure she takes her medication on time and to help her with the exercise routine her doctor prescribed. Most importantly, you’ll need to make sure she doesn’t try to do too much too fast.”

Amy smiled. “And I have a feeling that’s harder than it sounds.”

Matt grinned, too. “Trust me, I’ve already tried and failed. She’s a stubborn woman with a heart of gold. And when she gets an idea in her head, there’s no stopping her.”

“Gee, I wonder who takes after her.”

Matt shook his head, enjoying the light banter.

“Does this mean you’ll take the job?” Looking directly at Amy, he held his breath as he waited for her answer.

Biting her lip, Amy still couldn’t make up her mind. For some reason she couldn’t explain, she wanted to say yes. But before she did, she wanted to make sure she was saying yes for the right reason. That she was doing what was best for her and not what was easy.

After having paced the motel room floor for most of the night without reaching a decision, she’d hoped once she reached the Wynn farm the answer would be obvious. And maybe it would have been if Matt hadn’t been here. Though she wanted to show her appreciation for the unselfish way he’d protected her during the robbery, she didn’t want to take the position out of obligation.

When Aunt Lila called, both Amy and Matt looked up. “Where are your manners, Matt? Show the lady to the house.” When neither moved, Aunt Lila waved them to come in.

“You heard my aunt,” Matt said.

“Yeah,” Amy said. As they walked toward the house, she found her answer. This home and this woman had a spirit that drew her. It was as if God had provided a safe haven where she could heal her broken heart.

She would help Aunt Lila get back on her feet, and in return, she’d use this opportunity to take stock of her life and make plans for the future. After all, this was only a temporary arrangement.

Chapter Three

Aunt Lila clasped her hands and smiled. “I’m glad to hear my prayers haven’t gone to waste. I have a hunch this arrangement is going to work out for both of us.”

Amy reached out to shake the older woman’s hand and was immediately pulled into a loose embrace. Though surprised by Lila’s enthusiasm, she appreciated the warm welcome. Still, for someone who’d refused to hire help, insisting she could make it on her own, Lila had quickly changed her mind. But that was a family matter, and Amy decided right then and there not to get caught up in the Wynn family business. She’d been hired to assist Aunt Lila and nothing more.

“I hope you’re right,” Amy agreed. “Finding a job and a place to live in one day is better than winning a sweepstakes. And I’m going to do everything I can to make your recovery as comfortable and easy as possible.”

“Oh, I have no doubt this arrangement is going to work out.” Though Lila appeared tired, a strange sparkle lit her eyes as if she knew a special secret. “And now, if you don’t mind, I’m going to lie down.”

“What can I do to help? Perhaps I could bring you a cup of hot tea? Or maybe you’d like me to run some water for a bath?” Amy asked, feeling like there was no time better than the present to get started.

“Oh, no,” Aunt Lila insisted. “I’m going to rest, and then after dinner we’ll discuss how you can best help me.”

“At least let me prepare dinner,” Amy offered.

Lila nodded with approval, then turning toward Matt said, “In the meantime, I’d like you to help Amy move her things into the south guest room and then take her on a tour of the property.”

Being a fast learner, Amy already knew better than to argue with Lila. However, she didn’t intend to spend the rest of the afternoon with Matt, and she was certain he’d feel the same way.

Amy and Matt both nodded as if in agreement, then waited until Lila had left the room before honestly facing one another.

“What was that about?” Amy asked.

“I’m not sure what you mean.” Matt shrugged, as if to say he truly was clueless.

“That look in your aunt’s eye.”

“Oh, that,” Matt said, shaking his head. “There’s no telling what she’s dreaming up. Trust me, you’ll get used to seeing that sparkle. Aunt Lila’s always got a plan.”

“Like what kind of plan?”

“Let’s see. She’s always redesigning the gardens or remodeling the house. And if she’s not doing something to the house or barns, then she’s helping raise money for a favorite charity or she’s working on a church committee. Her specialty is weddings, and lucky for her, her nieces and nephews have kept her plenty busy recently.”

Amy noticed Matt’s wistful eyes, but because she wanted to avoid any talk of weddings she let the look pass without comment.

“I gather Aunt Lila’s a very active woman.”

Matt grinned. “That would be an understatement.”

“Sounds like I may be the one who has a hard time keeping up.” From the brief time she’d spent with Lila, she knew she was going to enjoy working for this woman. Lila possessed a zest for life that was contagious, and Amy already felt a sliver of the woman’s optimism taking root in her own heart.

“She’ll keep you busy,” Matt agreed. “But I really think you’ll be a great team. Otherwise I wouldn’t have suggested this arrangement in the first place.”

“And I want to thank you for introducing me to your aunt. Without this job and home, I might not have been able to stay in Lexington.”

“Well, you did get off to a rough start.”

When Matt looked at her, she shivered, suddenly feeling the same electric connection she’d felt between them during the hour she’d spent in his arms in the storeroom closet. And then the moment passed, leaving her face-to-face with a kind stranger. Disturbed by her fluctuating thoughts, Amy determined it was time to end the visit.

“I owe you a lot. And I promise I’ll take good care of your aunt.”

“I know you will.” Then, clasping his hands together as he looked toward the door, he said, “Let’s get your things moved in and take that tour.”

“Really, I don’t expect you to waste your afternoon. I don’t have much in the car, and I’m certainly capable of wandering around the property on my own. In fact, I’d enjoy it. So, please, don’t feel obligated. I know Aunt Lila only wanted to make sure I felt welcomed, and you must have more important things to do.” Even before she finished the long speech, Amy knew she wasn’t getting through to the man. Her words bounced off his grin as if they were made of rubber.

Matt shook his head. “Your job’s going to be a whole lot easier if you learn from the start not to ignore Aunt Lila’s orders. I’ll never hear the end of it if I desert you now. Besides, it won’t take that long to see the property.”

Amy bit her lip in an attempt to stop the frown in progress. The same sparkle she’d seen in Aunt Lila’s eyes now simmered in Matt’s. While she didn’t want to start off on the wrong foot with her new employer, she wasn’t all that convinced Lila would really be upset if she took a rain check on the tour. If she hadn’t known better, she’d think Matt had his own reasons for wanting to stick around. Sighing, she realized he probably wanted to get to know her better. After all, he’d brought a stranger into his aunt’s home. He was probably having second thoughts and needed some assurance that he’d made a wise choice.

“Okay.” Amy gave in. “But just a quick tour.”

Then after dinner, she’d call her parents and assure them she was okay. In fact she was better than okay. As she met Matt’s gaze, she couldn’t help but feel her fresh start was going to be everything and more than she’d dreamed it would be.

As Matt carried the last suitcase into the grand foyer and up the wide, twisting stairway, he tried to see this house through Amy’s eyes. Was she intimidated by the high ceilings, Palladian windows, tapestry fabrics and miles of the finest polished mahogany? Or, despite the grandeur, did she feel the warmth, love and coziness that lingered from years gone by?

Matt set the suitcase next to a lopsided pile of boxes and bags. Amazingly, everything on the floor had been stuffed into the trunk of her mid-size car. And yet, considering she had just moved to Lexington, it wasn’t much at all.

“Is there anything else I can help you move?” he asked, thinking she might have left a rented moving trailer parked at the motel.

Amy shook her head, and as if she read the curiosity in his eyes said, “When I came to town two weeks ago on my scouting trip, I put the majority of my things in storage.”

“And that same trip you found a place to work and live?”

“Yeah, I thought I’d found the perfect job. I was going to be the leasing agent at a small apartment complex. Free rent was one of the perks. Not to mention the flexible hours and that I could have afforded to at least take a part-time load at the university this fall. But that all fell through this morning. There was a mix-up. Apparently, the man who hired me didn’t know the owner had already hired someone else.”

“Wasn’t there anything you could do?” Matt asked with great concern.

“Not really. The person they hired had already moved into the apartment. You know what they say about possession being nine-tenths of the law. The man who hired me claimed he tried to telephone me when he realized what happened, but I’d already left Ohio.” Amy rubbed her eyes and pushed her hand through her thick brown hair. “Even if I had a strong case, I don’t have the means nor the inclination to take them to court.”

Tilting his head and offering a wise smile, Matt said, “Things have a funny way of working out.”

Amy merely rolled her eyes and walked to the window. As she tentatively pushed aside the sheer drape, creating a small opening to peek through, Matt studied her profile for clues as to what she might be thinking and feeling. But her stoic countenance gave little away. Swallowing hard, he found himself at a sudden loss for words, wondering if he were crazy for bringing this woman into his aunt’s house. What on earth had possessed him? She was a stranger, and in this awkward, silent moment, he felt it profusely.

But she was a beautiful stranger.

While her eyes followed a restless black thorough-bred across a distant pasture, he watched her. He loved the way her silky dark brown hair graced the tops of her shoulders. And anyone with such fair skin certainly couldn’t spend endless hours in the summer sun. Instead, he imagined her sitting on his aunt’s veranda in the old rocking chair, sipping cold lemonade and nibbling on sugar cookies. With perspiration glistening on her slender neck, she would gently fan herself.

Matt turned away and took a deep breath. This was his loneliness talking. He’d always thought he’d be married by now. Instead, he had been best man to a string of cousins, and by the end of the summer he’d be the only unmarried Wynn cousin. And he didn’t even have a prospect in sight. That was, until he’d held Amy in his arms. Even though he’d been terrified during the life-threatening ordeal, he’d found a certain comfort in holding her close. It was as if his subconscious had taunted, This is what it would feel like to hold a woman you could love for a lifetime.

Shaking his head, Matt physically tried to suppress the ridiculous thoughts. While it was true he felt an unexplainable bond with this woman, it wasn’t love. Love didn’t happen in a flash or even in an hour. Real love, like the kind his parents and grandparents shared, took time to grow and mature. Glancing at Amy, he promised himself he wouldn’t blow their newfound connection out of proportion. They had survived a dangerous moment together. It was only natural he should feel drawn to her.

Feeling more confident, Matt moved to Amy’s side. As they stared out the window in silence, he resisted the urge to casually drape his arm across her shoulders. When he turned his head, he found her studying him with curious eyes. He smiled, and when he did, her composure cracked, and he saw the distrust, confusion and sadness she tried to hide. In that moment, Matt could only wonder why God had brought this woman into his life.

“How about that tour?” he asked, suddenly anxious to stretch his legs and inhale the fragrant Kentucky air.

They hadn’t walked very far when Matt realized Amy skillfully redirected the conversation each time it headed her way. While Matt wasn’t trying to be nosy or rude, he did wonder what had brought her to Lexington and why such a beautiful woman would be content to work for his aunt for the summer.

There were so many things he wanted to ask her. But as he’d learned from his horses, patience was a virtue. Given enough time, she would tell him everything he needed to know.

As they left the formal rose garden and started to follow the trail that wound around a small hill behind the estate, Amy stopped to take one last look at the large two-story white farmhouse, the expansive lawn and the series of white barns.

“It’s postcard perfect,” she said, admiration showing in her eyes.

Matt inhaled deeply, pleased by her enthusiasm. Next to family and friends, there was nothing he loved more than this one hundred acres.

“No matter what season it is, the view from here is spectacular.” Matt shielded his eyes with his hand as he let his gaze shift from the horses in the pasture below to the main stable with the towering clock tower and chimes that could be heard across the property, and then finally to the huge shade trees surrounding the house. The wooden swings he and his cousins had played on as children still hung from the sturdy branches. Someday, his children would swing beneath those oaks.

He felt Amy’s gaze upon him like a warm shadow. “This farm means a lot to you,” she said. He couldn’t be certain, but he thought he heard envy in her voice. And that made sense. His roots went deep, while she had yet to replant. It was as if she carried her heart and soul in a small container, transporting them from city to city, looking for the right place to dig in. Respecting her privacy, he resisted the urge to ask her what she was searching for.

“The land’s been in my family for five generations. It’s where I find my strength. It’s where I’ve learned who I am and what I’m going to be.” He hoped he didn’t sound lofty or arrogant. That wasn’t his nature. But it was hard to put into words how this place defined his life.

“This is where you meet God,” Amy wisely said.

“I never thought of it like that,” Matt said. But she was right. And suddenly a host of memories flooded him. He saw himself as a child walking this trail, wedged between his father and grandfather, listening as they talked of faith and hope and family loyalty. Things he was only beginning to truly understand.

“My grandfather always said, ‘You walk life out one day at a time.’ I guess I took him literally.”