To Be Made Whole (A Christian Romance) (On Hold)

Chatper 21: The New Couple

The early morning sun couldn't wake me early enough. Various thoughts of the day ahead brought a jolt of joy within. Today was filled with promise and it was nearing a form of tangibility. Eagerly, I jumped out of the confines of the luxury blankets that the Hawthornes had laid out for me. One of the extra fluffed pillows would make for the perfect support as I began my morning with God. Many ideas, hopes, plans, and questions were flowing through my mind, but I needed to be still.

"Father, please still my mind." I prayed quietly. The thoughts began to calm down, no longer jumping and colliding with each other. I began to speak with Him, asking Him to lead me in the order that was the best and most fruitful.

This morning didn't require any background ambiance sounds playing from my phone, although I loved those sounds of nature or Christian instrumentals. But today, the creatures moving about the outdoors were beginning to wake too. The sound of them could be heard through the cracked window, which only encouraged and brought more peace to my mind and added an added layer to my prayer. I found myself thanking God for each one.

Once I came to the end of the first and most important step of my day, I hopped over to the large closet on the other side of my temporary bedroom. It was still taking a while for me to get used to the grand design of this home. The Hawthorne's guest bedroom had a closet that was large enough to hold a few closets within it. Placing my wardrobe inside it appeared rather sad in a comedic way. I just didn't need all of the clothes and shoes that this would hold. Even the profession that my mother wanted for me, didn't require all the clothes that this closet could fit.

As I swept away the few hangers that held the variety of styles and colors, I knew exactly what I wanted to wear today. My fingers danced across each hanger as I gently pushed them out of the way until I reached the dress of my choosing.

My dad, so kindly, arrived at the Hawthorne's residence on his way home from work the night before. With him, he brought an array of nightgowns, dresses, and the small box of hair supplies that I had left back home. I was happily surprised that he arrived, but I felt even more surprised to see that he had arrived alone. My parents had been spending more time together, especially after Gabriella crawled out of her hiding spot.

It was a sight to see. It was as if they were young and in love again, and in a way they were. My mom's eyes sparkled as she looked up at my dad. My dad became the doting husband and I found that they joked much more easily with one another. Rarely did I see them without their hands intertwined now. I felt a rush of excitement at the realization that their marriage was being healed or better yet, was already healed.

They needed time together, to get to know each other all over again. I had never witnessed one marriage be attacked so harshly, but the way their love was bouncing back- appearing stronger than before, brought me hope for them. My God was and is a healer.

Within seconds, the dress came into view. It was far towards the back, but it still stood out in its pastel yellow hue throughout. The sleeves were similar to that of Belle sleeves, but they flowed openly instead of cinching towards the end. The dress itself flowed like silk and resembled that of gold. Thankfully, it didn't harm my wallet, if anything, it was wonderful seeing my grandmother bring it to life when she made it. As always, her little and big creations always reminded me of her.

I brought the dress over to the bed and sighed as I grazed my hand across the fabric. It was satisfying to feel, nearing therapeutic.

I smiled to myself. I had a good feeling about today.

Within an hour, I finished tidying up and preparing myself for my outing. Heading out of the bedroom, I wandered towards the kitchen. Rafael would be here in less than five minutes, but the growl bouncing off the walls of my stomach demanded my attention.