It wasn’t pretend or imaginary like her relationship had been with Pastor Adam growing up. This sweet and giving woman sitting beside her now truly cared for her.

Her! The girl no one had ever wanted growing up, the damaged soul who had brought danger lurking into their lives.

Virginia Clementine had opened up her home and her heart when Harmony had so little to offer in return. It was she who had set down the roots that bound Harmony to this place, and it was because of her that Harmony couldn’t run away scared now.

Not when she finally had something worth fighting for.

In that moment, despite the terrifying visit from Alan and despite the inevitable confrontation brewing, Harmony realized she’d later look back on this as one of the very best days of her life.

Chapter 33

Harmony

The next day Nolan escorted Harmony to work at the diner while Pastor Adam showed up at the house to take care of some church business with Mrs. Clementine. Both dogs, of course, kept a watchful eye over everyone.

Alan didn’t come back around that day, which felt like a relief and a disappointment wrapped into one. They both knew he’d be back. What she didn’t know was why he’d chosen to wait or where he’d taken up residence while he bided his time.

“Stop thinking about it,” Nolan said rather abruptly on their drive home after work. “I can see your thoughts keep going back to him, and you need to cut it out.”

Harmony let out a sarcastic laugh. “Easy for you to say. You’re not the one he’s after, and besides, you’re so big, you could probably just step on the guy and squash him like a bug.”

Nolan snorted. “If only.”

Pastor Adam was still at the house when the two of them returned from their shift at O’Brien’s and a bit of “getting her mind off things” around the city. Abigail, Gavin, and little Owen had also joined them, and everyone appeared to be in good spirits.

“Um, guys,” Harmony said gently. “This seems like a really bizarre reason to throw a party.”

Abigail laughed and shook her head. “You’re right about that. We’re just here to pick up Dad and then we’ll be on our way. Otherwise, he’d never leave just so long as Mrs. Clementine keeps feeding him her delicious cooking.”

The pastor put both hands on his belly and puffed out his cheeks. “My daughter knows me so well.”

“I’ll send some with you to go,” Virginia promised from her spot at the stove. It wasn’t even four o’clock yet, but apparently she’d started—and nearly finished—prepping dinner all the same.

Meanwhile, Abigail stepped closer to Harmony with a drawn expression on her face. “How are you holding up?”

“I’m fine. It’s everyone else I worry about.” Harmony attempted a smile, but it refused to come.

“You don’t always have to be strong. Sometimes it’s okay to let others take care of you, too. Believe me, I learned that the hard way.” She gave Harmony a hug that was cut short by commotion near the door.