“I’m available, but that may be a bit out of my league. I’m too new at Eye of the Beholder to do you or the shop justice. And I’m too new in town to contribute anything to the meeting.”

“I disagree. After working with you last week while you learned the ropes, I’m impressed by your intellect and insights. You’ll probably be more of an asset at the meeting than I would be.”

A rush of pleasure warmed Christi. How long had it been since anyone—other than Tasha—had given her a sincere compliment?

Too long to remember.

Wes certainly never had.

She erased the image of her husband from her mind. Swallowed past the sour taste in her mouth. “I appreciate the kind words.”

“All of them true.”

“You convinced me. I’ll attend in your place—but I’ll restrict my involvement to note-taking.”

“Participate however feels comfortable. It starts at seven at Grace Christian. I’ll text Marci to expect you, and I know she’ll welcome you with open arms. As Ben said, she’s a ball of fire. If she could bottle and sell her enthusiasm, she’d be a millionaire.”

“I’ll put it on my calendar.” Christi twisted her wrist to check her watch. “I should let you rest. Are you certain you don’t need a ride home tomorrow?”

“No. A friend from here in Coos Bay volunteered to pick me up. I tried to dissuade her, but she said she was craving Charley’s tacos—and who am I to argue with that? I’m addicted myself.”

“I can understand that. I’ve only had them once—but I plan to be a regular customer.” On impulse, she reached over and took Beth’s hand. Gave it a squeeze. “Call if there’s anything I can do for you.”

“I will.” Beth squeezed back. “And thank you for all you’re doing. Most of all, for showing up in town when you did. It would have been the answer to a prayer . . . if I still prayed.” Her features hardened, and she flicked a glance at the envelope on the sheet.

So Beth had once had strong faith—and the envelope must hold a clue about why it had lagged.

Would a few words of encouragement be appropriate?

“I didn’t pray much either for a number of years.” Christi kept her tone conversational. “But adversity can be a road map to God.”

“Or a dead end.” Beth eased her fingers free, sadness oozing from her pores. “It’s hard to keep believing when he deserts you.”

A nurse came in, sabotaging any further discussion, so after one more “take care of yourself,” Christi left the hospital room behind.

But as she walked down the hall toward the elevator, her thoughts remained on the woman who’d undergone major surgery with no one by her side.

What had caused Beth to lose her faith?