My sweet Joy proved to be an affectionate companion. Potty training was much easier than I expected, especially since I was new to the world of dogs.

The bell rang on the café door. The love of my life walked in wearing a grin as big as Texas. Did he have any idea how many women’s heads turned at his handsomeness when he entered a room? And he was spoken for. He jammed his hands into jean pockets and approached the bakery.

“And what would you like today, sir?” I said.

He leaned over the glass counter. “Nothing in the display case could be as sweet as you.”

I rolled my eyes. “Flattery, sir, doesn’t get you anything free.”

“True. But I have you for life. Want to go with me later to take pics of a baby colt? One of the boys at the center invited us.”

“I’d love it.”

He looked around us like a mischievous little boy. “Can we sneak into the kitchen for a kiss?”

No one was in sight. “How about two?”

Denton and I planned to be married on December 22, a Christmas wedding. From the first moment I met Denton’s family, they treated me like a queen, and I saw the premature white hair in his dad and brothers. Denton and Brice took a long walk and returned laughing. Andy and Lisa went a bit overboard making me feel welcome, but their words and gestures were sincere.

Edie and Amy-Jo helped me select the perfect dress, a simple satin-and-lace princess style. Our loved ones would be there to share in the celebration. Yes, I was excited to walk down the aisle with Dad and pretend Mom and Marissa were there too. Aria would be a bridesmaid and Edie, my matron of honor.

Denton had retired from the FBI and decided to teach math and coach sports at the local high school. “I don’t need to prove myself to anyone but God,” he’d said. “And I enjoy kids. I want to help them find hope.”

We’d enjoy a wonderful future together, God willing. How strange God had worked on both of us and then brought us together for the gift of love.

My journal was full, and I was ready to begin a new one. This one would be different because life changed, and we were all changing with it. I might not understand God’s timing or purpose, but I’d learned to wake each morning seeking His will. The colors of my life were filled with love and healing for today and tomorrow.

CHAPTER ONE

HOUSTON

EARLY JULY

MONDAY, 6 P.M.

Vacations offered a distraction for those who longed to relax and rejuvenate, but FBI Special Agent Heather Lawrence wrestled with the decision to take an overseas trip alone. Normally she arrived for a flight at IAH eager to embark upon a new adventure. Not this time. Her vacation expectations had bottomed out over four weeks ago after Chad had slammed the door on reconciliation. Was she working through her grief or avoiding the reality of a husband who no longer wanted her?