"You don't really want an abortion or you wouldn't have left the clinic."

Josh's touch was gentle as he slid his hands on either side of her face, silent begging her to listen. "I want this baby, Dani, and I'll take care of both of you."

Oh, how she wanted to say yes. To be his wife and have his baby, but something held her back. "Do you love me, Josh?"

"Yes, I love you." He'd hesitated only a moment, but it was enough.

Dani's heart shattered. "You want the baby, not me."

"Give me a chance. That's all I'm asking." He closed the distance between them, his gaze pleading. "We loved each other once and we can do it again. I know you're afraid, but I won't let you down."

"What happens the next time you can't deal and need a drink?" she shot back at him. "Or worse you turn to drugs. I know you mean well, but you can't even take care of yourself, Josh!"

Each accusation was like a stone hurled at him, but he didn't flinch knowing he deserved her doubt. "Ok. I get it," he said slowly. "I've messed up, but I can overcome this with Jesus. Please, Dani."

Her ride pulled into the drive.

Dani's heart ripped into. She saw his pain which he didn't bother to hide and knew when he closed his eyes he was praying. "I'm sorry!" she shouted, hurt and angry.

He watched, stricken, as the driver loaded her bag. "Why'd you even tell me about the baby if you wanted to abort it after all?" His voice cracked on the last words. Tears shined in his eyes.

"I really am sorry." Dani slid into the cab, but before she closed the door she paused. "Goodbye, Josh."

"No!" Dani shot awake screaming, soaked in sweat.

It was like in A Christmas Carol where she could see her past self making mistakes but she couldn't stop it. She could never hit rewind. It was done.

"Thank you, Jesus." She'd never have been able to live with herself if she'd had the abortion. It was difficult enough knowing she'd given up her family. That's what they'd have been if she hadn't let herself doubt Josh.

She and Josh had been just eighteen when they had landed themselves a movie deal that rocketed them to instant fame. Suddenly, they had money, attention, and an endless choice of entertaining party invitations. It had been too much temptation, and neither of them could handle it.

The single movie they'd made together had sucked the life from them, and Josh had fallen. They'd both made mistakes. She drank too much and experimented with drugs. Josh became addicted, but he was strong enough to pick himself up and get clean. He'd always been steady, strong, and dependable. After all, Josh had the living God on his side. Why couldn't she have trusted him?

It was because she hadn't trusted God then. She'd been smug and self-righteous when he spoke of the Lord who gave him the strength to overcome his sins. Her heart had hardened. "Thank you, Lord God, for softening my heart. Thank you for Jesus."

Trembling, she tried to go back to sleep but tossed and turned anxiously for most of the night. When the alarm went off at four AM she groaned, but got up and reached for her Bible on the nightstand. First, she read the words from Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

She liked Proverbs because it was easy to understand most of the time.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart—Dani was working very hard to do that.

And do not lean on your own understanding—This was tricky. Sometimes she wasn't sure if she heard her voice or God's, but she kept trying.

In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths—It sounded easy, but she'd learned that following Jesus was a daily struggle. There were too many distractions that pulled at her and led her into temptation.

Dani prayed for the Lord's help in doing his will.

At four-thirty, she rang Mrs. Huckabee's doorbell.

No answer.

She rang again a few more times. Knocked. Pulled out her phone and was about to call when Mrs. Huckabee shouted, "Who is it?"

"It's me, Dani Spencer!"

A moment later the door opened and she faced the frowning woman, dressed in a nightgown, who looked like she'd just gotten out of bed. "I'm not deaf you know. Just old."

"I'm sorry, ma'am." She swallowed hard, nervous.

"Don't be. I'd never want to be anything other than what I am." Mrs. Huckabee waved a hand dismissively.

Dani drew back, afraid she'd offended the woman. "I-I didn't mean I'm sorry you're old—"

"Stop apologizing. What're you doing here?" She snapped, scowling. "The roosters aren't even up."

Dani blinked, confused. "You said to be here at four-thirty sharp."

The older woman stared. "Did I say morning?"

"Well, no. But you said you like to get up early so I thought you meant morning. If it's not a good time, I can come back later."

Mrs. Huckabee's shrewd gaze flicked over her missing nothing. "You're here now. C'mon in. Don't doddle. Truth is, I thought you'd be one of those folks who show up three hours later than you're told."

She processed that for a moment. "You wanted me here at 7:30?"

"That's what I just said isn't it?" Mrs. Huckabee put her sturdy hands on the wheels of her wheelchair and moved for Dani to enter. "Honestly, I'm surprised you showed at all."

"You said you wouldn't rent the cabin unless I helped you out. It was part of the deal," Dani reminded her, stepping into her small but quaint home. The hardwood floor creaked beneath her steps.

"Stop telling me what I said, child! I'm not senile. My body is old but my mind is sharp as a tack. I didn't think you were dependable."

"Then why did you rent the cabin to me?" Dani asked, feeling like she needed another cup of coffee to continue the conversation.

Mrs. Huckabee was already wheeling away, and she glanced over her shoulder. "Because of your guy."

Dani followed her. "Josh? I didn't think he knew I was staying here."

"Not that one. Jacob, your son." Mrs. Huckabee looked at Dani like she doubted the younger woman's intelligence.

"He gives me hugs and draws me the best pictures." She rolled into the kitchen and gestured to the refrigerator covered with childlike drawings.

Dani stood mesmerized. Her gaze fastened on one that was obviously Mrs. Huckabee-she knew because of the wheelchair-and it looked like Jacob. The words I LOVE YOU were written painstakingly in a child's hand.

"Jacob did these?" she whispered in awe.

"That's what I said isn't it?" Mrs. Huckabee repeated but her tone was a bit less gruff.

There was one of a family that caught her attention and hurt her heart. Above the people in the family picture were the words DADDY, MER, and ME.

"Meredith is a good gal. She's helped those two out a lot."

"I'm sure she is." Dani glanced away, feeling Mrs. Huckabee watching her intently. It was a bit unnerving. "What should I do first?"

"Coffee, breakfast, and laundry."

Dani got started and tried not to think about Jacob's family picture. Three hours later she'd made breakfast with coffee, prepped lunch and dinner, did all the laundry and put it away. She'd also dusted, swept, and vacuumed.

"I'll clean the bathroom before I leave," she said to shocked-looking Mrs. Huckabee.

"You'll do no such thing!" The older woman admonished. "It's the Lord's Day. You shouldn't have worked this much. Get yourself to church, child. Next week, I plan to join you."

Dani was uncertain. It was obvious the woman was having difficulty getting around and her hands trembled on the wheels. "Are you sure you don't need anything else before I go, Mrs. Huckabee?"

"Yes, I'm sure. Go on. Get."

Dani thought her tone didn't match the words. She didn't think the older woman wanted her to leave and struggled to find something to say. Small talk had never been something she was good at. "If you don't mind my asking, what happened to you?"

"Blunt. I like it. Most folk would have been too polite to ask."

Dani wasn't sure if she'd been complimented or insulted, but she smiled taking no offense.

"It was a stroke. Could have been much worse. Some never make it out of the hospital. Josh and Jacob pick me up and take me to doctor's appointments and church when I'm able."

Dani let that sink in. She should go to church, but honestly, she was afraid. What if they didn't accept her? She hadn't set foot in a church since she'd been a child. "Have you had someone before me check in on you?"

"No. I like my independence. It's been tough, but I manage. When you called to ask about the cabin the words tumbled out like God had willed them."

"You manage nicely, but now you won't have to." Dani smiled. "I can help anytime you need it."

"Hmm." Mrs. Huckabee watched her like she was a puzzle. "How long do you plan to stick around?"

Dani didn't hesitate. "Forever."

"Such a small word with a big meaning. We can make our plans but the Lord determines our steps."

"Proverbs 16:9."

Mrs. Huckabee's mouth formed an O. "It's not too often people surprise me, Danielle, but you have managed it multiple times and it's not even eight o'clock."

"Dani, please, I don't go by Danielle. Not anymore." It reminded her of the fast, fake world she'd run from. Not that everyone in the business was like that, but she'd made mistakes and nearly ruined her life. "I appreciate you letting me stay in the cabin. It's quiet and perfect for me."

"Most folks thought it was too much in the boondocks."

"Well, I love it. Thank you, Mrs. Huckabee."

"My friends call me Bee." Mrs. Huckabee's perceptive gaze lingered a moment. "I'll see you tomorrow, Dani, at 7:30 AM."

"Goodbye Mrs—Bee," Dani said, feeling as if she'd made a friend which was great because she didn't have that many.

***

Dani was supposed to meet Josh at church after services.

She went back to the cabin and changed into flared jeans with her favorite worn boots and a peach blouse with peasant sleeves that she'd worn in high school. It was nothing like the chic clothing she wore when she was working. The top was too inexpensive and covered too much, but Dani felt like herself.

With a prayer for courage, she walked up the steps and into the church foyer. They were singing. "...on Christ the solid Rock, I stand All other ground is sinking sand."

The words weaved their way into her heart and planted themselves in her soul. She sang along to the chorus.

The service came to an end and she bowed her head for the closing prayer. Announcements were next. The pastor went over celebrations, birthdays, and then he closed with the words that would rock her world.

Dani peeked inside and immediately spotted Josh and Jacob with Meredith. They were seated on the front row just like a real family. Caleb and Rachel sat beside them along with Tanner and Parker.

"I'd like to honor a couple whom we all know and love. Two people that have chosen to put the Lord first in their lives. You will all be pleased to know God has big plans for this couple." Pastor Wyatt's eyes crinkled at the corners with a smile.

For some reason, Dani stepped closer needing to hear what he would say. A feeling of dread loomed over her.

"Forgive my lack of eloquence. I only found out this morning." Pastor Wyatt chuckled. "Please join me in my heartfelt congratulations as we wish Josh and Meredith all the Lord's blessings on their engagement."

Engagement! Her chest tightened painfully and she felt dizzy. Josh was getting married!

Applause followed and Dani stood frozen. She'd known this was coming. Her mother had told her, but she didn't think she'd have to witness it. It was more devastating than she could have imagined.

Dani glanced down to regain her composure. When she looked up again Josh was staring right at her.