“Papa, we’ve already talked about this, and now really isn’t the time to start up a conversation. If God has a man for me, He’ll send him our way and make it clear. He’d have to be someone willing to take on all three of us, or he couldn’t possibly be the right man.” She smiled. “Now, you’re going to be late if you don’t get a move on.”

Papa glanced toward the hall that led to the bedrooms. There was no sign of JT. Not that Gloriana had really expected him. It was a struggle each day just to get him awake in time to go to school.

“I hope he won’t give you too hard of a time today.”

Gloriana shook her head. “JT will be fine, just like you said. He needs time to rethink things. Now, get on with you, and don’t forget your food.”

He grabbed up the bag. “I love you, Glory.”

“I love you too, Papa. Oh, and don’t forget.” She beamed him a big smile. “If you face trouble, remember that I’m right about Jesus.”

This was something her mother had always said before letting her husband head out onto the lake.

He chuckled. “The good Lord can have me anytime He wants to come get me.” He opened the door. “Smells like there might be a rain in our future.”

Gloriana followed him outside. It was chilly, and she wished she’d brought her shawl. Instead, she hugged her arms to her body to ward off the nip in the air.

Sally and Scott came out of the little house that Gloriana had once lived in as a girl, back when it was just her and Mama and Papa. “Morning,” she said with a wave.

Scott and Sally made their way closer. “Good morning to you,” Scott replied. He smiled. He was always smiling. He seemed happier than anyone Gloriana had ever met.

Sally pushed a tin into Scott’s hands. “These are for later. Did you get your lunch as well?”

“I did.” He leaned down and kissed her. “I’ll be back before you know it.”

Gloriana and Sally watched the men leave. Within view down the rocky path was the object of their attention, the Ana Eileen, a fishing boat named for Gloriana’s mother. Neither said good-bye, as that was considered bad luck, and even if Gloriana didn’t believe in luck and superstitions, she knew her father did.

She took Sally’s hand. “Let’s pray for them.” She didn’t wait for Sally’s answer. This was their custom every day the men went fishing.

“Father, we ask Your blessing on the Ana Eileen and the men who serve her. Let the catch be plentiful and the weather fair. Bless all those who sail today, Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

“Amen,” Sally whispered.