Hearts Aligned

Prologue

Melissa

"How do you know when you're in love, Mama?"

Mama's right eyebrow quirked up like it always did when she was surprised by something. "My. That's a mighty big question for a little girl."

I stomped my foot. "I'm not little. I'm almost eight!"

Her hand covered her chest, and her eyes widened. "Well, I guess you're right. That is getting to be a big girl." She knelt down in front of me, not caring that we were in the middle of the baking aisle of the grocery store. "It's really a very simple answer - when someone else treats your heart like it's his very own, and you treat his like it is yours. It's like swapping hearts, and you must take very good care of it."

I cocked my head to one side. "Like the very bestest of friends?"

"More than friends, my little love. You always hold your friends close. But you'll keep his heart even closer."

I thought about that for a minute. "Did you and Daddy swap hearts?"

For a second I thought my mama was going to cry right there in the store, and she never cried anymore. At least, not when she thought anyone was listening. "We did, sweet Mel. Most definitely."

"So when Daddy went to Heaven, did he give you your heart back?"

"No, not yet. Your daddy still has it."

"So you didn't swap hearts with Frank?" My stepfather was okay, but I didn't think he treated Mama like a best friend.

She sighed, and I knew I was starting to push her limits with my questions. "It's a little complicated. Frank's a decent man and he takes care of us." She ran her fingers through my curls, hair that she said reminded her of my daddy's. "When you're older, I hope you find someone so special you'll want to do anything for him, even more than what you want for yourself, and he has to do the same for you. Then you'll know your hearts are aligned, and you can swap them and treasure them. Okay?"

I nodded, not sure I really understood. I wondered if she meant like what happened yesterday when my friend Holly was over. There was only one cookie left and me and Holly both wanted it. I didn't want to give her that cookie, and she was my best friend! No way would I give up something I like for a stupid boy.

"Mel? You coming?" I looked up and saw Mama had moved along the aisle. I hurried to catch up to her. Boys could wait. Baking with Mama would not! Besides, boys were gross. I couldn't imagine ever wanting to give up, much less share,something with them! Ick. No way.