The family heard when Aliza shouted, "I knew that, in school, she always pulls pranks.
She was the best actress in it the drama group, and Michelle was the only one who could figure her out."
"Aliza, I need her home address?"
"Sorry buds, none of us has her address."
"So, how was she invited to the wedding?"
"That is Michelle's secret."
"Then I need to speak to Michelle."
"I can't help you there either, she went with her parents to Holland the week after the wedding."
Thomas whispers, "I have burned the bridge with that fool. So how am I going to find out her address?"
"I know Tom, her plane ticket that's should help."
Lifting Aliza, "Thank you so much for your quick thinking?" Running upstairs to his room, Thomas shifts the wardrobe and pulls out her bag.
Searching through, finding the ticket, he jots down her address quickly. 1860 St Clemens Street Kentucky.
Placing the bag back right behind the wardrobe once again. Then went to his study and made a few calls setting a plan in place.
When was four he got up and went to the kitchen and heat some milk for her? "She had cried so much until she fell asleep. I am certain she is hungry now?
And I am sure she has not noticed the gift I got her yesterday."
Reaching the room Thomas places the milk by the bed head and went to the washroom. Being secluded in the washroom Thomas asks God's direction and favor.
"Lord Jesus, because of my foolishness she had to endure so much abuse. Please show me a way to remove the shame and reproach.
So her family name would be redeemed, instead of being tainted and they are treated as an outcast.
Lord, I don't know who her family is, but I ask for your help and favor. Please lead me and let Your Holy Spirit lead the way. I beg of You in your most holy and precious name Jesus. Amen."
****
Rising the Sunday morning Christa saw the two beautiful roses. Looking around the room for him, hoping to ask for a ride to Church.
Hearing not a sound from the washroom. 'He doesn't work on Sundays, and yesterday we all went to the auction sale.
He made some good purchases, also he got some good sales for his bulls, sheep, and goats.
If only we could have one of those prized animals on our farm, but it doesn't matter anyhow.'
Venturing out on the corridor the only person in sight was his dad, "Dad have you seen Thomas this morning?"
"No! Do you want him for something?"
"I needed someone to take me to church this morning, Aliza isn't coming today."
"I will take you if that's okay."
"Thank you so much, I will be downstairs next fifteen minutes," Christa whispers as she steps through the door. 'Father, will he drop me off? Or will he stay for the service?'
Walking down the stairs, Christa had put on the dress Thomas had given me for their second month anniversary and the gold watch.
"My, my, you look special today, just stand right there for a minute?"
Seeing he took her picture, "Dad what are you doing?"
Sam saw Carla coming towards them smiling, "Honey, will you just take a picture of Christa and me please?"
"Dad, where are the two of you going this early?" Carla asks.
"I am going with Christa to Church today."
Taking the shots, Sam took his camera from Carla, then they left for Church. Excited about going to church, after so many years.
Especially with the wife, Thomas had chosen. But today 'I am proud to go with my daughter-in-law.
There were so many questions at the wedding. Maybe it will have some clarity. '
Christer notices the smile on his lips, "Dad you are smiling? What are you up to?"
"Me, I was just thinking, I haven't gone to a Church Service in a while."
"Are you feeling awkward?"
"No child, it used to be a regular event for the family, but then the children grew up and scattered.
Until everyone stops, but I am happy you want me to go with you."
"I am glad you are going, the people asked so many questions but I don't mind."
Entering the Church after so long, except for the wedding. Sam walks with her and sits, observing the many heads turning and looking at us.
When Christa took his hand in hers, and give it a gentle squeeze. Feeling comfort in the touch, I smile with everyone who was looking at him.
Enjoying the service especially with her singing next to him. Sam thought, 'Aliza was right all along, she reverently worships God.'
Forgetting everything that had happened in the past two months.
Sam relaxed and listen to the message. The Message was very touching. After the message, hearing the Minister thank everyone for the generous contributions.
They have given towards the helping of the home for the Disability children. Looking at Christa only to hear the Minister say.
"I especially want to thank the Fortune family for offsetting the excess expenses. And everyone for making the extra sacrifices for attending to the children.
Whatever assistance you can make or give us will be accepted humbly. Thanks once again."
Shaking the Minister's hand, Sam heard him saying. "You have not forgotten us, my brother.
And your daughter here has never missed a service since she married your son."
Understanding then that he was speaking about Christa.
"She has truly been a blessing, I am sure you and Cynthia are very proud of Thomas's choice."
Unable to speak Sam just smile, then left, driving home.
Sam glance at her, 'Wondering, how much money did she give to their need? Did she ask Thomas for a donation? Or has he given her a sum of cash for herself?'
Lost in his thoughts when Christa touches his hand to get his attention. "You want something child?"
"Dad, can you just give me a few minutes by the supermarket, please?"
Pulling into the parking lot at the supermarket. "Take your time, there's no hurry."