Back Cover Blurb:

Niki Garat tolerates her job and the city, but she lives for her summer vacation with her grandfather at his sheep camp in the stunning Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming—until this year.

When the U.S. comes under attack, including an aggressive attempt by foreign invaders to locate nuclear missiles hidden throughout remote western lands, the serenity of her mountain refuge is shattered. As area ranches are commandeered, neighbors and friends, including Deuce, her childhood infatuation, band together.

Throughout their struggle to stay alive, Niki begins to understand what came between her and Deuce, but before past mistakes can be corrected they must endure a terrifying manhunt and a desperate fight for survival.

MY REVIEW

Big Horn Storm is the first book I’ve read from Kim McMahill, but it won’t be the last. Her writing kept me turning the pages wondering what would happen next. The action was believable but not over the top. She has a knack creating characters that are interesting and 3-dimensional, even the minor characters.

My only complaint is that the romance element took up too much of the story line. I like books with a little romance and a lot of suspense. If I had to describe the book it would be equal romance and suspense. But like I said, it still held my interest to the very end.

Great job, Kim MaMahill.

As we approach July 4^th, the state of the greatest country in the world is on my mind. It saddens me to say what I’m about to say, but I believe it to be the truth.

Our political system is broken.

You have to be a millionaire or very close to one to be elected to a national office these days. If you’re not a millionaire when you get into office, you certainly will be when  you leave.

I don’t know about you but I don’t have a lot in common with millionaires. They don’t have to worry about the price of gas or health care or….the list could go on but you get my point.

The political system has created a huge division in this country.  It’s created a hatred that makes no sense. We aren’t supposed to hate people who have different ideas than us. It seems as if we aren’t allowed differing opinions any longer. If you aren’t part of my political party, then you are wrong and a horrible person.

I remember being taught in school (I believed it then and still do) that I might not agree with what you say or believe but I will defend your right to say it.

That’s the America I grew up in!

I still love my country! But sometimes it’s hard to recognize it among all the hatred, divisiveness, and ridiculous arguments that abound. This July 4^th let’s get back to the basics that our country was founded on. Free Speech. Respect for each other. Tolerance for different opinions.

I’m not sure how to fix our broken political system but I do know that  we need something to change.  Our government needs to be of the people, by the people and for the people as Abraham Lincoln stated in the Gettysburg Address.

Happy Birthday, America!

As promised, here’s the next installment of my free novelette that shows the beginnings of NewAm. the setting of my new Christian series, Messengers that will re-release on July 5th. I hope you enjoy this free novelette- NewAm—The Beginning.

You can learn more about the series if you click on the
link below. Thanks.

AMAZON LINK TO MESSENGERS SERIES

CHAPTER 10

Mary stuck a dirty dish in the dirty water, scrubbed it, then pulled it out.

It looked clean enough even though she knew it wasn’t really clean. She was so tired of not being clean. The dishes—her clothes—even her. They were doing the best they could without running water, but it was hard.

But even as hard as it was, Mary knew there were people who had it much worse than she did. People dying from lack of food or just from getting sick and no medical care available. The hospitals were doing the best they could but without electricity, that didn’t mean much.

If someone got shot or hurt, they might be able to stop the bleeding and stitch them up, but that was about it. They’d run out of most medicines and they couldn’t operate on people or give people the treatments they needed.

It had been months since the electricity went off and they still had no idea why. If they were in a war, it hadn’t shown up here. Yet, it felt like a war. People were scared. People were angry. People were suffering. People were hungry.

Put that all together, and bad things happened.

She was alone—a luxury these days–Mama Rose and Pops were out looking for food. They had money. Other people had food, like Cindy’s parents. They’d mentioned they were going there first. It was a win-win situation for everyone.

Pops had always kept money in the house. He said he didn’t trust banks or those ATM machines. He’d been right. When the electricity went off, the banks closed. But then again everything closed so you didn’t need money.

They both had to go. Dad carried the gun. Mom carried the groceries—if they found any. Things had gotten crazy out there. People stealing from each other, even in broad daylight.

They didn’t have a lot of food, but they had enough. They ate every day. A lot of people couldn’t say that right now. Life had gone back to the basics—food and family.

She smiled. And her family was now a family of Christians. Every day, they read out of her New Testament Bible. Mama Rose and Pops would ask questions. Sometimes she had an answer but not every time. They would read the passage again and again, hoping to understand.

Never in her life had she been able to do this. Talk with other people about God. It was so amazing. So special. Sometimes she would be overcome with gratitude that she couldn’t stop the tears of joy.

But even with the joy, life was hard. She stared down at the cloth and wrinkled her nose. She swooshed the dirty water around on the plate.

A light flickered.

Mary dropped the plate. Had that been real or just her imagination? She waited. Nothing happened. Must be wishful thinking.

She went back to swooshing the dirty water on the dirty plate.

And then the lights flickered again.

This time for a few seconds. Not her imagination. Excitement coursed through her. Was the electricity coming back on? She stood in the dark, not breathing but praying. Please, God, let the electricity come back on.

And then there was light.

Not flickering. But real light. She ran to their porch. Tears filled her eyes as she stared at the streetlights and lights in the houses in her neighborhood.

She couldn’t believe it.

The nightmare was over.

She ran back into the house and turned on the water. Water dribbled out. Not much but real water. She quickly let the dirty water out of the sink and then filled it with clean water.

Then she grabbed the biggest pot she could find and filled it with water as well. Just in case the electricity or the water went back off.

A shower? She ran to the bathroom. She didn’t care that the water was cold. She let the water drip over her. Oh my gosh, it had been months since she felt clean. Finally, she made herself get out of the shower.

She shivered as she put clothes back on. Who would have thought that a cold shower could feel so good?

Mama Rose called from downstairs, “Mary. Mary. Are you home?”

She ran out to greet them.

“I took a shower.” She twirled around with hair dripping wet.

“I see that.”

“I was afraid it would go back off so…” She flipped her wet hair. “The water was cold, but I didn’t care.”

Her mom hugged her. “I think I’ll do the same. Because you’re right. Who knows how long it will stay on for? I don’t want to miss out.” And off she went.

Pops chuckled. “Like daughter, like mother.”

“Were you able to get any food?”

“Yep. Got some eggs and potatoes from a farmer. And some canned food from Cindy’s parents. But they’re almost out. They said, they wouldn’t be selling any more.”

“But if the electricity stays on, things will get better, right? Back to normal?”

He hugged her. “Right. I don’t know what we would have done during this dark time without God.”

“Me either.”

“And to think we told you that you were completely wrong about him. I’m sure glad you didn’t listen to us.”

She grinned. “Just goes to show you parents aren’t always right.”

“I don’t know about that, young lady.”

“I do. I’m going to go find my phone and plug it in. See if it still works. Check out the TV. Maybe it’s working again.”

“Good idea.”

When she came back in with phone in hand, he was sitting on the couch staring at the screen. “Is it working?”

“I guess, but none of the channels are coming in. This is the only thing and it’s on every channel.” He pointed.

The screen was black with white writing. In white letters, it said. PLEASE STAY TUNED. THE PRESIDENT WILL BE ADDRESSING THE NATION SHORTLY.

She looked at Pops. “What are you doing?”

“Waiting.”

CHAPTER 12

“My phone’s still not working.” She walked into the kitchen holding it up so Mama Rose could see. It was the next morning and the electricity was still on. Her phone was fully charged but not working. “No texting. No internet. No phone calls. Nothing.”

Mama dried another dish and put it in the cupboard. She’d been washing and drying every dish in the house—just in case the electricity went off again. Water-filled pots and bowls filled all available counter space. “Be patient, Mary. The electricity’s been off for months. You can’t expect everything to return to normal overnight.”

“I suppose that’s true, but I wish it would. I’m so tired of all of this. I just want to have some fun. I want to see my friends. I want to be normal again.”

Her mom turned toward her with a big bowl in her hands. “I don’t know what normal means. When the electricity went off, I wasn’t a Christian. Now, I am, but I don’t know what that means for me. For our family?”

“You and God will figure it out. We’ll just keep reading the Bible and praying for guidance. Then, we need to listen to Him.”

“I guess.”

“I wonder if I’ll have to repeat my senior year or go straight to college.” She set the phone down. “What’s Pops doing?”

“Still waiting and staring at that TV screen.” Mom shook her head. “He’s a silly man.”

“Not to mention patient.”

“He doesn’t want to miss it.”

“Neither do I. Hopefully, they’ll tell us what’s going on?”

“I’m sure they will. Sooner or later. What would you like for breakfast?”

“How about eggs?”

Mama Rose turned on the electric burner. It turned red. “Who knew something as simple as turning on a burner could be so exciting?”

“We took so much for granted before the electricity went off. We really had so much to be thankful for, but we didn’t even think about it.”

“Well, I think about it now.”

When the eggs were cooked Mama Rose scooped some on a plate for her and for Pops. Mary took a plate into Pops who was still sitting on the sofa staring at the announcement on the screen. She sat down beside him. “What are you going to do today?”

“I’m going to sit here and wait for the president. At least for a while. If he doesn’t come on by noon, I thought I might borrow your bike. And check out what’s happening at work. They might know something.”

“Do you think now that’s the electricity’s on, the cars will start to work again?”

He shook his head. “I already checked mine and yours and Rose’s. No such luck. I don’t think it’s going to be all that simple getting everything back up and running. Whatever caused the electrical problems must have affected the cars in some way.”

She sighed. “Maybe they’ll tell us how to fix them.”

“I hope so.”

The TV screen flashed. THE PRESIDENT WILL BE ON IN FIVE MINUTES.

She looked at Pops then yelled. “Mom, the president’s going to be on TV in five minutes.”

“Coming dear. Just washing up the dishes.”

Mary looked at Pops. “She’s washed every dish in the house.”

He laughed. “I’m not surprised. She hates germs.”

Mama Rose came in and scooted in between Mary and Pops. He asked, “Is the water getting warm yet?” Unlike her and Mama Rose, he’d decided to wait for hot water.

“Yep. You can take that hot shower when you want..”

“Sounds awesome. Maybe you’d like to take another shower?” He winked at her.

“That’s disgusting.” Mary said.

He kissed Mama Rose firmly on the lips then grinned at Mary. “Why? We’re married. It’s allowed.”

She giggled. “I guess. But that doesn’t mean I want to know about it.”

Just then, the picture changed. The president sat at his desk in the Oval Office. “Greetings, my fellow Americans. I’m so happy to be able to talk to you. Finally after all these long months.

First, I want to tell you not to panic. Many of the things I’m going to tell you are going to be shocking. And upsetting. But please be calm and do not be afraid. We truly have your best interests at heart.

You are my top priority.

You may have suspected, but now I will confirm that we have been in war these long months. It’s the reason we haven’t been able to communicate with you. Our enemies attacked us where we were most vulnerable. Through our communication and technology. They attacked the infrastructure of our country, which includes electricity, computers or anything that has computer chips in it, television and radio, the Internet as well as other utilities. They even managed to destroy the microchips in our cars which is why they stopped working.

But America has prevailed as we always will.

We have overcome the enemy.

We have won the Techno War.

America is safe.

America has endured once again in spite of enemies that would destroy our beloved country. It will take time for everything to return to normal but with all of us working together, it will happen.

America will not only endure but thrive.

As you know the time for our national election has come and gone during this difficult time. Much to my sorrow, Congress chose to suspend elections because of the war and our lack of ability to have a fair election. Using their wartime powers, they voted to suspend the elections, which means I’m still  your president.

We must put politics aside for now. Instead we must focus on making our country great once again. Together as a team.”

“That’s not good.” Mom mumbled.

“Hush.” Dad told her but put a hand on her arm.

The president held up a hand. “I know how upsetting this news must be. I’m not happy about it either. I believe in the constitution. I was looking forward to retiring and writing my book. But it’s crucial that the country stays stable during this difficult transition time.

I have agreed to continue to serve until the next election can be held.

We all know that life changes during war time. And this is one of those necessary changes, even though none of us want it.  But know that we truly have your best interests at heart.

Old America is gone, but NewAmerica will be even greater.

With your help, we will be stronger and more responsive to the needs of our citizens. In NewAmerica, all citizens will be treated equally. No more discrimination. No more poverty. No more business as usual.

I promise, NewAmerica will be even greater than before. To help with our transition to a NewAmerica, a stronger America, a more fair America, I’ve created the Guardians of Freedom.

These Guardians of Freedom will bridge the gap between Old America to NewAmerica. The Guardians of Freedom will now tell you more about what will be expected of you as loyal citizens during this transition time. NewAmerica, meet The Guardians of your freedom.”

The camera panned from the President to three men sitting in chairs in the Oval Office. The camera focused on the man in the middle. “Good morning, NewAm. In case you don’t recognize me, my name is Cameron Weathers.”

“Isn’t he an actor?” Dad asked.

“Yes, he’s so handsome.” Mom answered. “I love him. His movies are wonderful.”

“What’s he know about running a country? Pops asked the same question Mary was thinking.

Cameron Weathers continued, “First, let me assure you as the president has that we truly have your best interests at heart.” Cameron Weathers gave his famous smile. “We know that life’s been extremely difficult these long months. Not just for you but for all of us. We’re working to change that immediately. Even as I speak, there are trucks moving fresh food to every part of NewAm. And the good news is that you won’t have to pay for any of it. Every NewAmerican is entitled to food, medical care, and a safe place to live.

As your Guardians, we promise every one of you will have all that you need to thrive once again. In return, we expect you to be loyal citizens and to do your part in making NewAm a great place to live once again.

We’re well aware of the looting and robbing that has been going on in your communities. It must stop immediately. It will stop immediately. Violence of any sort will not be tolerated.

To that end, we’re asking all loyal citizens to give up their firearms. You have the next 36 hours to turn your guns into the nearest police station. After that the police have been mandated to enter every home in their jurisdiction to ensure that this edict is followed.

Any guns found at that time will be confiscated and anyone in that household will be arrested. Adults and children alike.”

He held up a hand. “Obviously, we don’t want that to happen. So please turn in your guns voluntarily so you and your family won’t be arrested.”

 Dramatic pause and winning smile.

“I know this is difficult for some people to accept but in the end, it will make all of us safer. And isn’t that what we all want?” Cameron stopped talking.

The camera moved back to the president. “I know some of you are saying that it’s against the constitution, but I have more news. The Congress has suspended the Constitution for the time being. They have decided they need to be able to do whatever it takes to make NewAm great.

Do I agree? Not really, but it will be reinstated as soon as NewAm is stable. I know this is extremely difficult thing to hear but know that we truly do have your best interests at heart.”

“This is awful.” Mama Rose muttered.

The camera moved to another man. Much younger than Cameron Weathers but just as handsome. “My name is Walter Matthias. I want to talk about life in NewAm and what that means to loyal citizens.

Schools will remain closed at this time, but we will soon have a plan in place to resume education for our younger citizens. Adults, we expect you to return to your previous places of employment within the next twenty-four hours. At that time, you will be given instructions on the next phase of our recovery. If your job is located too far from your house to get to without a car, then you should report to the closest police station for further instructions.

Your former employers or the police will issue you an Identification Card that will authorize you to be given the free food as well as any medical care you might need.”

The camera went back to the president.

He looked grim as he said, “We will take care of you, but all citizens need to know that in NewAm, if you don’t work, you don’t eat. It’s that simple. Your identification card will be good for this month. A new card will be issued next month at your place of employment. If you have chosen not to work, then you will not get a card nor the food that the card entitles you to..”

The camera went back to Walter Matthias who nodded. “All able-bodied citizens are expected to contribute to the rebuilding of our great nation. If you didn’t work before the Technology War, go to the nearest police station for further instructions.

If you have children who are sixteen or older, you need to listen closely. During these unusual and difficult times, we must look at them not as children but as young adults. Young citizens who will be expected to contribute to the well-being of NewAm.

All young people between the ages of sixteen and twenty-five are hereby conscripted into the National Army and should report to the National Army headquarters in your state. Stay tuned to this station for more information on the specific locations in your area.

And please, parents, do not be overly concerned. The Techno War we’ve just fought and won was not a shooting war. It will not become one now. Your children, your young adults will be safe, but we need them to make NewAm safe and strong for all citizens. Most of the young people will be trained for essential jobs that are needed to bring our nation back up to full-strength.”

The camera went back to the president. “Young people have four days from today to proceed to a National Army Headquarters. Most large cities will have a headquarters, but if you live in a rural area you should report to the police station. Transportation will be provided by them. If any choose to ignore this law, they will be arrested.”

The camera moved to the third man. “My name is George Sampson. I know that many of you are probably upset with these changes we’ve outlined here today.  Do not be afraid. We are not trying to take away your rights. We truly do have your best interests at heart.

The government will take care of you. We will provide everything you need as we move forward as NewAmericans. In return, loyal citizens are expected to follow these Guardian Rules. Those who choose not to follow them, have chosen the consequences. Thank you for your cooperation.”

The screen went blank.

I hope you’re enjoying this short story that tells the beginnings of NewAm. My MESSENGER series releases in a few days but you can preorder it now!

MESSENGERS ON AMAZON

As promised, here’s the next installment of my free novelette that shows the beginnings of NewAm. the setting of my new Christian series, Messengers that will re-release on July 5th. I hope you enjoy this free novelette- NewAm—The Beginning.

You can learn more about the series if you click on the
link below. Thanks.

AMAZON LINK TO MESSENGERS SERIES

CHAPTER 8

Mary opened her eyes, her hand moving to the lamp. She tapped it. It’s the first thing she did every morning now.

Still no electricity.

No phones.

No cars.

Nothing.

“I hate this.” She muttered to herself.

Her life had changed overnight.

Literally.

When the electricity went off, Mary figured it would be back on when she woke up the next morning. But it wasn’t. And not the next day or the next or the next.

Here it was a week later, and the electricity still wasn’t back on. But it wasn’t just about electricity. Nothing was working and everything had changed.

Nobody knew what was going on and there was no way to find out. They couldn’t get information about what was happening because there was no TV or newspapers or radios.

The Internet had vanished along with their way of life.

No jobs. No restaurants. No school.

She was supposed to graduate this year and go to college. But who knew what was going to happen now? Would they make her take her senior year over again?

She sighed. So many questions and nobody to answer them.

Mary sat up and reached for her Bible. It was the only thing that was keeping her sane at the moment. She turned to John 16: 33. She’d been reading this verse every day since the electricity went out. It helped.

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

“I have peace through Jesus. I have peace.” Then she turned to another favorite verse, Romans 8: 28.

 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

What a good reminder. God was still on the throne. God could take any situation and work it out for her good. She didn’t see how that could happen in this situation, but she trusted God.

It was just the way Mommy and Daddy had taught her. Walk in faith not in sight. It didn’t matter what was happening now. All she needed to do was to walk in faith—to trust God.

She closed her eyes and prayed.

“What are you doing?” Her mother’s voice brought her out of her meditation.

“I’m praying.”

Her mother walked in and sat down on the side of the bed. “Does it help?”

Mary held up her Bible. “Oh, Mama. It helps so much.” She hugged her mother.

“Why? Why does it help.”

“I’m not sure why. I only know that when I read God’s Word, my soul quiets. I stop worrying and fretting about things I can’t change. I trust God. I have peace and hope. I know that he’ll take care of this…this situation…whatever it is.”

“Is that why this doesn’t seem to bother you the way that it’s bothering me?”

“I…I don’t know. It does bother me, Mama. But every time I get scared or mad or worried, I remind myself of the truth—God’s truth. Like this one I was just reading. It says that God works all things for the good of those who love him. If I keep remembering that, it’s not nearly as scary.”

“That sounds nice.” Mama Rose looked at her for a moment then asked, “Can you tell me about Jesus?”

CHAPTER 98

God really does work all things out for the good of those who love him.

Mary couldn’t believe it. First Mama Rose professed faith in God and then Pops. It was truly a miracle. A miracle that wouldn’t have happened without the electricity going off.

She’d prayed for this for so long. She’d thought it would never happen, but she kept believing and trusting God. But now that it happened, she was more than ready for the electricity to come back on. Please God, let it be soon.

She scooped the bucket into the creek until it filled up to about three quarters of the way to the top.  She couldn’t carry it when it was completely full. Then she did the same with the second bucket.

“Hi, Mary.”

“Hey, Cindy.”

Cindy walked over. “I see you got the same job as me. This is hard work. My mom stays in the house and acts like she’s got it so bad. In the meantime, I’m the one lugging the water.”

“It’s hard, but I lost four pounds this week. So that’s always a good thing.”

Cindy rolled her eyes. “I forgot who I was talking to. Mary the optimist. You always manage to see the good in any situation.”

She shrugged. “I try my best.”

“I don’t know how you do it. What’s your secret?”

Mary wanted to tell her that God was the source of her optimism but thought better of it. It was still illegal to talk about God—and you really never knew who might turn you in. Instead, she asked, “How’s everything at your house?”

“Pretty good actually. My dad’s always been a prepper. So we have tons of food in our basement. One of the advantages of owning a grocery store.”

“That’s wonderful.”

“Do you guys need some food? Dad’s closed the store, but he lets people he knows in to buy things.”

“I’m not sure. I’ll tell Pops about it. If he needs stuff, should he come to your house?”

“Yep. That works. My parents are letting me have a little party tonight. Just roasting hot dogs and marshmallows in the backyard but it should be fun. It’s sure more fun than lugging this water. That’s for sure. Want to come?”

“Maybe.”

“Vaughn’s going to be there?” Cindy grinned.

“What’s that got to do with me?”

Cindy laughed and rolled her eyes. “Don’t bother pretending with me. I know how you feel about him.”

“We went out a few times. Not a big deal. What time do you want me to come?”

Cindy giggled. “Yeah, that’s what I thought. About six.”

“OK. I’ll have mom make some potato salad or something.”

“Perfect.”

Mary lugged the water into the house. “Got it.”

“I could have helped.” Mama Rose said.

“Not necessary.” She grinned at her parents. “Are we going to do this?”

“We are.” Pops said. “I can’t believe we’re getting baptized.”

CHAPTER 109

“That was fun.” Mary said. She was walking home with Vaughn. They were holding hands. “It’s been so long since I saw everybody. And it’s so boring being at home without a phone or a TV.”

His shoulder bumped hers. “It was fun. I almost didn’t go but I’m glad I did since you were there. I’ve been meaning to stop by your house.” He stopped walking and turned toward her. “I know a way we can have some more fun.” He leaned in and kissed her.

Their first kiss.

She smiled as they parted. “That was very fun.”

“That’s just the beginning. We can have way more fun.” He put a hand on her arm and moved it up and down.

“What do you mean?”

“I mean sex. This is like our third date. I usually have sex on the first.”

“Oh.” She started walking again, not liking the direction the conversation was going. Maybe if she just ignored it, he wouldn’t push the issue.

“How bout it? We can go to your house or mine. I don’t care which one. Whatever you want is fine with me.”

Sex was a normal part of dating. Which is why she didn’t date much. Most parents agreed that it was OK to have sex after fourteen. Some said not until sixteen. Here she was almost eighteen and still hadn’t had sex—and didn’t plan to. “No thanks.”

He grabbed hold of her hand. “What do you mean? No thanks? I don’t understand. I thought you liked me.”

She stopped walking and turned to him. “I do like you, Vaughn. Really, I do. But I’m not planning on having sex until I get married.”

His mouth fell open. “Really? Why?”

How could she explain this without mentioning God? She shrugged. “I just don’t want to. That’s all.”

“That doesn’t make any sense. Everybody has sex. What’s wrong with you?”

“There’s nothing wrong with me.”

“Then why don’t you want to do it?”

She might as well face the situation head on. She turned to him with her hands on her hips. “I’ll tell you why. Girls have sex and think some boy’s all in love with them. But for the boy it’s just about sex, not love. Then that boy has sex with some other girl. And the first girl is devastated. I don’t want that. I don’t need that kind of aggravation.”

“But—”

“When I decide to have sex, it will be with someone I really care about and they really care about me. It will be with my husband.”

He rubbed her arm. “But I do care about you.”

She almost laughed out loud. That was way too obvious. “And I care about you, Vaughn. But I’m not going to have sex with you.”

“Then you don’t really care about me.”

So predictable. “That’s not true. I do care about you and that’s why I don’t want to have sex with you.”

“That’ makes no sense at all. What are you talking about?”

“Sex changes everything. I’ve seen it many times. With my friends. They’ll be dating someone and having a great time. Bike riding, hiking and swimming. Going out to dinner, concerts or museums. Or just hanging around together having fun. Then they have sex and BOOM!” She used her hands to emphasize the boom.

“Boom?”

“Boom. No more dinners or concerts or museums. It becomes all about the sex. And only about the sex. How is that fun?”

“Well if you’re doing it right, it’s fun.”

“If that’s true, then why do they always end up breaking up when it gets to that stage. Tell me that.”

“I…uh…I’m not sure.”

“Exactly.” She held up her hands and smiled. “And that’s why I’m not having sex with you. I like you too much to have sex with you.”

“That’s bizarre. Come on, let’s have a little fun.”

“It’s not going to happen, Vaughn.”

“Then I can’t date you anymore.”

“I sort of figured that. And that’s too bad. Because we could have had a lot of fun together.” She turned and walked toward her house.

“You mean sex?” He called out.

She turned back to him. “I meant swimming. Night, Vaughn. Thanks for walking me home.”

She unlocked her door and got in before the tears started. She didn’t even know why she was crying. It wasn’t like she didn’t know that would be his reaction. That’s how they all acted. Still…she’d hoped he’d be different this time.

“What’s wrong, Mary? Why are you crying?” Mama Rose sat on the couch. The candle glowed turning her into a shadow.

She wiped at her eyes. “Nothing.”

“It’s not nothing. What’s wrong? You can tell me.”

“Vaughn was at the party and walked me home. He wanted to have sex.”

“That’s a good thing.”

“I guess, but the Bible talks about sexual purity. I want to stay sexually pure until I meet the man I’m going to marry.”

“Oh. I didn’t know that. But sex is a natural part of dating. There’s nothing wrong with it.”

“I know that, but God made me realize that the right man for me won’t force me or try to talk me into doing something I’m not comfortable with. So I know Vaughn’s not the right guy, but it still hurts my feelings.”

“That’s make a lot of sense, sweetheart.” She hugged her. “I’m so proud of you for being able to stand up for what you believe in. Even when it’s hard to do.”

“Thanks, Mom.”

“Especially when it’s hard.”

Life can be hard when you live out your faith in ways the world disagrees with. It’s not easy to go against worldly norms, but it’s so worth it!

Until next time,

God bless & Good Reading!