Secrets of the Heart

How far would you go to fulfill a promise made to a stranger?

Five years ago, a soldier helped Davon McCade speak to his father for the last time. In return for the use of his cell phone, the soldier had one request: Help somebody else in dire need, and then write me a letter.

For three years his letters have returned unopened, and he wants to know why. The former Air Force NCO can’t forget the young man’s help. Leaving the family construction business in the hands of his brother and partner, Davon decides to take a much-needed vacation to Galveston Island’s Sea Garden Bed and Breakfast, and unravel the mystery of the soldier’s strange promise.

He expected salty fresh air, relaxation, and the ability to hand off the burdensome letters that will fulfill his obligation. Instead, he got a run-down B&B, a tragedy he never imagined, and a quick and fiery introduction to Private Kessler’s redheaded and stubborn sister: Madeline.

Madeline Kessler had fought for everything in her life, and the Sea Garden was no different, but she was at the end of her rope. Sabotage and poor contracting choices had run the post-hurricane repair costs through the roof. When Davon McCade shows up on her porch with a strange smile, and an offer to help restore her building, Maddie can’t help but be suspicious.

When he starts work, however, she realizes he may just be the answer to her prayers. The moment her heart gets involved, old hurts surface, and she has to force herself to take it one day at a time. The moment the job was over, he’d be gone, and she’d have everything her and her brother had ever wanted. That would have to be enough.

If only her heart would listen.

This story is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, locales, actual events, or organizations is purely coincidental.
Copyright © 2015 by Jessica Russell

Written for #WATTYS2015 #SYTYCW15 #JUSTWRITEIT #HEARTWARMING