The Harper Family: Faithfully Yours (Wattpad Version)

Taking a leap of faith

Demarco

I walked toward Oliver and Mel while they talked.

Oliver noticed me first. "Hey, Demarco."

"Hey, Oliver," I said.

Mel turned to me and smiled. "Hey, D."

"Hey, Mel."

"I need to grab some notes from my office." Oliver turned on his heel and walked away.

I shook my head and scoffed. Oliver thought he was slick with his excuse.

"How was work?" Mel asked.

"Not too bad. How were your classes?"

"Crazy. I didn't realize how much terminology you need to learn to become a pharmacist."

"I didn't realize you were studying to become a pharmacist." I quirked my brow.

"Yeah. I enjoy helping people. It's better than becoming a nurse or doctor since I don't like needles." Mel shuddered.

I chuckled. "I doubt anyone likes needles. So, I was wondering if I could take you to dinner."

Mel's brows lifted in surprise. "Wait. Are you asking me on a date?"

"That's usually what dining in a public place means." I smiled.

"Um, sure. Where?"

"My cousin owns The Gray Brothers' Eatery."

"Really? I love that place!" Mel placed her hands on her chest and grinned.

"How about tomorrow evening?"

"Sure."

Mel and I grinned stupidly at each other until someone cleared their throat. We turned to see Oliver standing there with a shit-eating grin plastered on his face.

"What?" I asked.

"Nothing." Oliver shrugged.

I gave Oliver an annoyed look.

Oliver raised his hands in defeat and walked away. "I didn't say anything."

I rolled my eyes and shook my head.

Mel giggled. "I think it's sweet Reverend Harper cares about his parishioners."

"I'm not just a parishioner. Oliver is my cousin."

Mel's brows lifted in surprise. "Really?"

"Yep." I nodded. "He was the one that suggested I attend the youth group. Although I think he had ulterior motives." I raised my finger.

"I think it's sweet." Mel smiled.

I couldn't help but smile. "Did you want to sit together?"

"Sure."

I touched Mel's lower back and led her to the chairs. We found our seats and talked. People entered the church, walked to the circle of chairs, and found a seat.

I noticed Joshua stroll over and sit across from Mel and me. A smug look crossed his face. My smile vanished as my eyes narrowed to a slit. Mel spoke to a girl next to her. Joshua smirked in my direction.

Without thinking, I slid my hand into Mel's and intertwined our fingers. Joshua's smirk disappeared as a scowl replaced it. Mel tensed at the gesture.

I looked at Mel as she stared at me wide-eyed. "I hope you didn't mind me holding your hand."

Mel averted her eyes as pink tinged her cheeks. "Not at all."

"Good." I smiled.

Mel turned her head and smiled. I looked at Joshua as he glared at me. I didn't like this guy.