Somewhere along the drive Ren heard her husband’s laughter, felt his touch and saw his face.

I miss you so much.

It wasn’t long before she found herself headed to Jade Falls and the old pioneer church where they were married. She eased into the empty parking lot. No one was around this time of the week.

She walked along the path that wound to a grove of trees that overlooked a creek. A small sign identified the spot as the church cemetery. The rain had turned the grass the most beautiful shade of green. She made her way through the burial grounds stopping at the headstone that read:

“Chester Wexford Carter, Beloved Husband and Father, died …”

Ren didn’t need to read further.

She ran her fingers gently over his glistening stone and a rainy breeze tumbled up from the creek, carrying her through the moments of their lives. Ren closed her eyes and embraced them as the water teared on her face.

Chet. I’m not leaving you. I have to go. Lee’s in a bad way and he needs me. So I’m moving away but I’m not leaving you here alone. You got that? I’ll see to it that they bury me out here next to you when I’m done.

Ren nodded and gently tapped the wet stone.

A decision and promise made.

Now, she had things to do.

She climbed back into her truck.

-Chapter 39-

Somewhere Over the North Cascade Mountains

The rain intensified as if a wave had been unleashed and the plane yawed.

“I think we should put her down,” Leclair said.

Banner agreed and switched on the cabin intercom to advise his passengers.

“We've got weather with an attitude so we’re going to land and sit things out. Be sure you’re buckled up back there. It could get a little rocky.”

Banner switched off the intercom.

“Ken, check Lake Chelan for an unscheduled land -- ”

The plane heaved as if a gigantic fist gave it an uppercut, throwing Leclair’s head against the console. Blood webbed down his temple.

“You okay, Ken?”

He touched his head then looked at the blood on his finger.

“I’m okay, but I can’t believe this.”

Banner commenced requesting Seattle Air Center get them to the nearest strip as the plane swayed, bucked, then jolted with a deafening bang.

Then it dropped.

“Fire in the starboard engine!” Leclair said.

The plane began yawing. The stricken engine flamed out. Cockpit alarms sounded. Instrument needles freewheeled as Banner fought to steady the aircraft.

“Something’s wrong with the ailerons,” Banner said. “Call in a mayday! We’ve got to put down now!”

The pilots struggled with the controls taking the plane into a rapid descent as the starboard wing ignited.

“We’re losing it!”