Total pages in book: 88
Estimated words: 82439 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 412(@200wpm)___ 330(@250wpm)___ 275(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 82439 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 412(@200wpm)___ 330(@250wpm)___ 275(@300wpm)
“Oh, okay.” I try to imagine what the Outreach Program entails, my mind drifting to thoughts of people seeking help, looking for solace. Could I benefit from something like that? The thought tugs at me, though I’m not sure if I’m ready to admit it.
“The outreach?” I ask her, trying to keep my voice casual, though a part of me hopes she won’t pry. The last thing I want is for her to ask about my finances or why I’m interested.
Pride. It’s a horrible thing, but it clings to me like a heavy coat I can’t shrug off.
“For the needy. We give out free food. It’s a great resource for those who need it.”
I smile. “That’s nice.” I don’t want to tell Sandy that I’m in dire need of groceries. That most nights I eat at the diner I work at, trying to save money where I can. Most days I only eat one meal, and it’s usually a cheap sandwich.
She glances at her phone, most likely checking the time. “We should head back.”
When I walk into the chapel, my eyes instantly connect with the man standing on the dais. The handsome priest.
I should turn away, but I can’t.
Religion is a funny concept when you break it all down. At its core, it's a gathering of like-minded individuals, all coming together under the banner of shared beliefs, seeking purpose or guidance from something greater than themselves. Whether it’s in a grand cathedral with soaring stained glass windows or a simple room with nothing but folding chairs and a pulpit, the heart of religion lies in the community it creates.
I think what it really entails is a sense of hope. Hope that there is something beyond this world, something that transcends the mundane, something that gives our lives meaning even when we can’t always see it.
Father Carmichael commands the congregation with his words. He has a knack for this, almost like he’s a performer. The annunciation and infliction given to each word makes my heart sing with fascination. I probably shouldn’t be this into listening to him, but I can’t help it.
Every now and then, while he speaks, our eyes meet and I quickly look away. I picture what it would be like to have his full attention on me. The way he demands attention from the congregation. Would he be so demanding in the bedroom?
My mind wanders into dangerous territory, imagining what it would be like to have his hands all over me.
What is wrong with me?
After church is over I rush out of the pew without so much as even a goodbye to anybody. I can’t believe the whole time I fantasized about the priest.
I head back to my apartment a few blocks away. My apartment is empty, and I miss the sound of Nate running around, getting into everything. I miss my baby boy.
My phone rings in my pocket and I pull it out. “Hey Greer,” I say.
“You’re still coming for brunch, right?”
I glance at the time on the clock hanging in my kitchen. “Yes, what time does it start?”
“Soon. Get your butt over here.” She laughs, and I smile.
“I’m on my way.” I would love to talk to Greer about my case. She was a top defense attorney, and I’m sure she could pull some strings for me with my family court case, but we only just met at the gym, and I don’t want to overstep.
I fluff my hair in the mirror, and grab my bag. Hopefully Greer can steer me onto the right path to get my son back.
Because right now that is my number one goal.
I arrive at Greer’s place and park my ratty Jetta along the street. My face sours at the sight of the expensive Lamborghini in the driveway, but I put on my best brave face and knock on the door.
“Eva, so glad you could make it,” Greer says, wrapping me in a friendly hug. She introduces me to her fiancé, Roman Thorne, and I smile as I shake his hand.
“So nice to meet you.”
“You as well. Come inside and meet everyone,” he says, as both of them lead me further into the house.
It’s a stunning home with a grand entrance featuring a sweeping staircase and a crystal chandelier that catches the light just right, making the whole foyer sparkle. The living room boasts high ceilings, large windows that let in plenty of natural light, and elegant furnishings. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, with marble countertops, top-of-the-line appliances, and an island perfect for entertaining. Outside, I catch a glimpse of a beautifully landscaped garden and a pristine pool that looks straight out of a luxury resort.
“This is my twin brother, Ledger,” Roman says, introducing me to a tall man who looks strikingly similar to him. Ledger, like Roman, is impossibly handsome. His dark hair is styled in a way that looks effortlessly tousled, and his sharp jawline is offset by a smattering of scruff that only adds to his rugged charm. Both of them are the kind of gorgeous that feels otherworldly, like they stepped straight out of a glossy magazine.