Anchor of Hope by Kiah Stephens Read Free Book Online Page A

selling his painting business in California. Ashley had always thought it was bizarre that someone would willingly move from California to Sweet Home to retire—it seemed like going backwards to her—but Martin explained that love made you do crazy things.
    Martin checked his watch. “I’d better get going. I told Pastor Barry I'd meet him around one.” He quickly finished his tea and kissed Jane, then headed for the door.
    “Pastor Barry wants his house painted,” Jane said. “And Martin loves any excuse to use his knowledge and expertise in painting.” She smiled contentedly as she watched him leave.
    “Well, we're all set for the wedding on Saturday,” Jane said, changing the subject. “We've got eighty guests coming. Can you believe that? The numbers seem to keep growing and growing, but there's enough room in the garden to accommodate everyone, so that will be fine. We need to finish up getting the lawn ready this week and Jay will be delivering the gazebo-”
    “Jay?” Ashley interrupted, recoiling at the mention of his name.
    “Yes, honey. I've asked Jay Henderson—you remember him—to construct us a gazebo. It's the prettiest thing you ever did see. And afterwards it will make a stunning focal piece for the garden. It's big enough for a little table and chairs, perfect for us to have afternoon tea in. I spoke with Jay earlier today and he's going to deliver it for us on Saturday morning before the wedding. Is everything OK?” Jane asked. “You look a bit pale.”
    Ashley sighed. Jay had appeared ambivalent upon seeing her but she’d hoped they wouldn’t be running into each other again any time soon.
    Ashley shook her head, managing a small smile. “I'm OK, a massive headache. I knew I shouldn't have gone out last night. I might go and have a walk around the garden; get some fresh air.”
    “That sounds like a great idea. Some sunshine will do you good. Got to get that vitamin D into you.” Jane walked over and kissed Ashley on the top of her head. “It's good to have you home.”
     
    The garden was stunning. The lawn was thick, lush and green. There were short hedges covered in different colored flowers, and several butterflies and bees busily got to work collecting nectar and pollen.
    Just beyond the hedge were several large sugar maples, and beyond them, the lake. Ashley could see glimpses of the water as the sun reflected off the lake’s surface, flashing golden light through the gaps between the trees.
    It was warm, and everything smelled clean and fresh and green.
    She made her way down the small decline which led to another open lawn area, the larger space where Jane and Martin would have both their ceremony and reception. The view from the lake was much clearer here, and the water looked cool and inviting. To the back of the garden was a trail which led to the small jetty. Ashley strolled along the narrow path, listening to the sounds of the birds calling to one another and the gentle breeze as it rustled through the leaves.
    The old timber jetty was still there. It was worn, but stable and Ashley walked along, peering over the edge at the water below. She sat down and dangled her feet in the water.
    Ahhh. That feels better .
    She moved her feet backwards and forwards through the cool water, closing her eyes. The sunlight warmed her entire body and her headache seemed to be easing.
    Her phone rang.
    She pulled it out of her pocket and answered it. Steven.
    “Hi.” She was glad to hear from him.
    “Hey, how's it all going?”
    “Not too bad. I'm hanging out at Moms. I had dinner at Bryan’s last night and my grandparents are coming over for dinner tonight. How’s everything there? Did you manage to get that work done that you had to finish up on Friday night?”
    “Yeah, yeah. Everything's fine here. I'm packing my things for Tokyo now.”
    “I thought you weren't going until Thursday.” Ashley said.
    “I'm not, but this week is going to be flat out at work so I figured I may