Lightning and Lace Read Online Free PDF Page B

Kahlerville for two days. He’d been introduced to more people than he could remember. Most of them were skeptical about his new position, if not downright rude, and he understood taking the reverend’s place might ruffle a few feathers. Looked like he’d have to prove himself. The reverend had apologized more than once for the way he’d been treated, but each time Travis had reassured him that the transition would take time.
    In a few short minutes, the reverend and Mrs. Rainer’s family were expected for dinner. He’d met Mrs. Kahler but not Morgan and Grant Andrews and their families. They were influential in the community, and he hoped to make them friends. The tantalizing aroma of roast beef and potatoes swirled up the stairs and moved him not to delay a moment longer. His stomach had rumbled for hours, and he’d spent a good bit of the afternoon in prayer for tonight. The sound of voices told him the time had come.
    Travis made his way down the stairs and into the dining room. The reverend stood with his back to him amid a swarm of people. He saw Mrs. Kahler, but she was talking to another woman. Lord, help me here. He touched the reverend on his back. The introductions were about to begin.
    “The food smells wonderful,” Travis said.
    The reverend turned and grasped his hand. “Good. You’re here. Let me introduce you to everyone.”
    “Do you think the new preacher is ready for us?” a man said. “After all, you’re asking him to put up with seven stubborn, independent adults and eight lively children.” He stuck out his hand. “Morgan Andrews. I’m the oldest of the clan. This beautiful, auburn-haired woman is my wife, Casey, and these are our children: Chad, Lark, and Daniel.”
    “Pleased to meet you.” Travis listened to Grant Andrews introduce his dark-haired petite wife, Jenny, and their two little girls, Rebecca and Rachel. At least he’d already met Mrs. Kahler and her children.
    Near the end of dinner, Travis placed his fork beside his plate and focused his attention on the reverend at the head of the table. “The folks here refer to you as Reverend Rainer or just Reverend. I’m not used to using that title and hoped you might suggest something.”
    “What did they call you back home?” The reverend picked up a jar of apple butter.
    “Mostly Brother Whitworth by the congregation and Brother Travis by close friends. Although some did call me Preacher.”
    “What do you prefer?”
    “Brother Whitworth to start with and then Brother Travis as soon as folks feel comfortable. I also think the name difference will help make it look like I’m not taking your place. What do the rest of you think?”
    Heads nodded, and Travis relaxed slightly.
    “I think that will work fine,” the reverend said.
    “Do you plan on getting a haircut before Sunday?” Zack sneered.
    “Zack Kahler.” Mrs. Kahler stood from the table. “Leave the room this instant.”
    “Can I take my plate?” he said.
    “No. You are finished with dinner.” Her face matched the white tablecloth.
    Zack scooted his chair back, still snickering. He grabbed a biscuit and left the room, banging the outside door in his wake.
    “I’m so sorry,” Mrs. Kahler said. “I need to take the children and go home.”
    “Sit down, Bonnie. Leaving is exactly what Zack wants,” Morgan said. “I’ll go talk to him in a little bit.”
    She slowly sat. Her shoulders lifted and fell.
    “Perhaps I’m the one who needs to talk to him,” Travis said. “He and I started out badly.”
    “Zack doesn’t get along with anyone,” Morgan said. “Don’t waste your time.”
    Tension sparked the air.
    “He’s grieving over Ben,” Mrs. Kahler said. “I know that is no excuse for his behavior, but—”
    “You’re right.” Grant tossed his napkin on the table. “Every family dinner we have is spoiled by Zack’s impudent behavior.”
    “And he’s getting worse. I heard what happened at school,” Morgan said.
    “Maybe we should