Several rings later, he answered—half frantic, half asleep. “What’s wrong?”
“Who said anything’s wrong?”
“It’s not even six in the morning on a Sunday, and you’re calling me.”
“Oh.”I probably should have waited a few hours. “Nothing’s wrong. In fact, everything’s right.”
“What do you mean?” She heard rustling over the phone and figured that was the sound of him sitting up.
“I bought a Bible for myself and have been reading it.” She took a deep breath. “I read late last night, and again this morning. Everything you told me, I know it’s true. I said the prayer.”
A happy sigh came over the line. “I’m happy for you. So happy.”
“I was wondering…” She trailed off, working up the nerve to ask.
“You were wondering what?”
She absently traced the outline of dogs on her pajamas. “Do you think I could go to church with you this morning?”
“Is it pumpkin spice season?”
His quip made her laugh. “What time and what should I wear?”
“Nine-thirty and whatever you’re comfortable in. Most people at the church I’ve been going to, dress casually.”
“You won’t leave my side, will you?” After she asked, she realized the depth of her trust in him, that she could admit she needed him.
“Not for a second.”
“Thank you.” She heard the wobbliness in her voice and determined to be stronger.
“Since you’re awake, why don’t you come over early and we’ll have breakfast.”
“Have you realized how often we eat together?”
He chuckled. “We have to eat, might as well share those meals with someone you care about.”
His words shot straight to her heart. “Good point. What time should I be there?”
“Give me an hour at least to finish waking up and get ready. Any requests?”
Her mouth curved into an automatic smile. “Fried egg sandwiches.”
“You got it. See you soon.”
***
Sybil’s heart pounded. Jared hadn’t told her they’d be going to a Sunday school class that consisted of a small group of young adults. She’d envisioned sitting in a sanctuary pew and getting lost in the crowd while the pastor stood in front of everyone and preached. That’s how it always went in movies. She didn’t even know small classes like this existed.
Too nervous to risk making eye contact with anyone, she kept her gaze on the move. A bulletin board to her right had pinned flyers which advertised upcoming events. On the opposite wall were inspirational posters. Some had verses, and a jolt of joy shot through her when she recognized one. It connected her to this strange environment in a small way.
“Doing okay?” Jared whispered and reached for her hand.
She rejected the gesture but felt guilty when she saw his disappointment. “My palms are sweaty.”
His smile reassured her, and he took her hand anyway. “Doesn’t bother me at all.”
Several more people entered the room. With the arrival of each person, Sybil became more conscious of her enlarged stomach. One look at her and anyone would know about her baby. Would they judge?
