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Beyond Tomorrow
Beyond Tomorrow
Beyond Tomorrow
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Beyond Tomorrow

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Supermodel Torrianne Jefferson-Reynolds and Isaiah Reynolds, a superstar point guard who plays for the NBAs California Wildcats are madly in love. As this young couple face things theyd never dreamed of, they find themselves in constant prayer. They both love the Lord and know He will bring them through the fire, but only if they turn it over. With so many obstacles coming at them in rapid succession, can they hold onto their faith and each other to help get them and their twins through the shadows of darkness. When Torris life is threatened by a female who claims shes Isaiahs impregnated mistress, Torri has to put on the full armor of God to battle the demons surrounding her and preparing to take down her family.
LanguageEnglish
PublisherAuthorHouse
Release dateAug 7, 2012
ISBN9781467054263
Beyond Tomorrow
Author

Linda Hudson-Smith

Linda Hudson-Smith has won several awards, including a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews. She is also a recipient of the Gold Pen award and has won two awards from The African American Literary Awards Show.The mother of two sons, Linda lives with her husband, Rudy, in League City, Texas. To find out more go to her Web site: www.lindahudsonsmith.com. You can also e-mail her at lindahudsonsmith@yahoo.com.

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    Beyond Tomorrow - Linda Hudson-Smith

    Chapter One

    World renowned supermodel Torrianne Jefferson-Reynolds, affectionately referred to as Torri, absolutely loved quiet, yet exciting times like this one on this early fall evening. Curled up in the comfort of her gorgeous husband’s strong arms, she felt totally relaxed, safe and secure. The absence of yelling children fussing and ripping and tearing through the house at breakneck speed was quite surreal to the young couple.

    Designed in rich bourbon colored Italian leather, the sectional sofa they were curled upon inside their massive media room had comfortable recliners at each end. Three rows of media seating were situated on risers stacked at different levels. A large round mahogany coffee table rested a good distance from the sofa. Three matching end tables were strategically placed. The entire room was well-appointed.

    A 75" flat screen HD television was centered above the marble fireplace, but it wasn’t on. State of the art music and media equipment took up an entire wall. Beautiful works of African Art were hung throughout the room they used more than any other. A huge alcove off the room housed a huge pool table and a regulation sized ping pong table.

    Carved from the finest in a mixture of medium to dark hardwoods, a beautifully designed bar and ten leather bar stools graced the spacious alcove. All types of drinking glasses hung above in racks. The couple was only social drinkers, yet the bar was fully stocked with the finest liquors money could buy. The hardwood flooring in both rooms was nearly the same mahogany coloring as the coffee and end tables. The entire house was crafted with a variety of present and past century furnishings and accents.

    It wasn’t often enough that Torri and Isaiah Reynolds spent quality time together. Fondly known as superstar Ike the Psyche, Isaiah was the starting point guard for the Wildcats, a world champion NBA team in Los Angeles, California.

    Isaiah stood at 6'3". His cap of silky hair curled at the ends and jet-black bedroom eyes and extremely long dark curling lashes spoke to a woman’s heart. He had an autumn-brown complexion that was newborn smooth and clean shaven. The gorgeous young man’s bio could easily be filed under heartbreaker.

    Both husband and wife had survived the past five years of tremendously busy schedules while passing each other in airports or entering and exiting the fabulous million dollar home they shared in Toluca Lake, a prestigious southern California community.

    Since the twins had recently started their first year of school, Torri was only accepting local modeling jobs. She didn’t want to miss out on sharing time with her kids during special school events normally scheduled throughout the year.

    Either Torri or Isaiah could hardly remember times when their lives were without fanfare and without the presence of the Paparazzi, who nearly drove the celebrity couple insane. Rarely was everything on the Reynolds’ home-front calm and devoid of serious drama. Two celebrities living under one roof was quite challenging, at best.

    Because Torri and Isaiah desired to live their lives in peace and harmony and to also raise their children as close to normal as possible, their lofty goals for family time often seemed like impossible dreams. There was always one gigantic hurdle or another for them to leap over. Since basketball training camp was set to start in a few weeks, the couple’s lives would spin out of control for yet another season. There was always so much to do to prepare for life when Isaiah went into basketball training camp.

    Torri hated Isaiah being away from home so much, especially when he had to leave the city for away games. Heavy traveling was part of their professions. They’d known exactly what each did for a living, but Torri often wished their lives weren’t so complicated and terribly busy. The demanding social calendar they were obligated to adhere to put another big dent in the couple’s family life.

    Pre-marriage and kids, Torri had traveled to home and away games with Isaiah as much as possible. Then she’d learned she was pregnant. Before she could tell her then boyfriend they were expecting, Isaiah suffered through a horrifying medical trauma of his own. Despite all the modern technology at man’s disposal, the twins weren’t discovered until the delivery phase, which had come as quite a shocking surprise to the parents.

    While Torri’s and Isaiah’s five year old twins, Isaiah Jr. and his sister, Asianna were spending the weekend hanging out at Isaiah’s parents’ home, the couple was tremendously enjoying some one-on-one down time. The couple loved browsing through photo albums, featuring past and present photographs of their entire happy family’s smiling faces. Between turning pages of the album they shared passionate kisses.

    Isaiah looked down and smiled at a photograph of the two people he loved as much as life itself. Dad and Mom are still beautiful. Look at how their faces glow.

    Torri nodded in agreement. They’re still in love after all these years.

    Nicholas Reynolds, Isaiah’s father, was one of the most brilliant legal minds in the country. His equally brilliant-minded wife and Isaiah’s mother, Asia Morrell-Reynolds, was once a district attorney. She was now a defense attorney and partner in her husband’s law firm. Isaiah’s parents also had a tremendously powerful love story to tell.

    Torri and Isaiah frowned before breaking into laughter at the next picture.

    Words to define Ashton and Serresa Jefferson, Torri’s parents, hadn’t yet been invented. The lively, colorful, bourgeoisie couple was actually indescribable. One could almost expect anything to occur in their presence. They spoke their minds, no matter who was present or who might get hurt by their barbed comments. More often than not, they publicly presented their crass ways whenever an opportunity presented itself.

    As Torri looked over at her husband, she noticed a slight scowl wrinkling his smooth skin and the smoldering of his eyes. His mood had changed suddenly and she felt it. She wanted to ask about his feelings but feared it might upset the apple cart.

    If Isaiah’s mind was on what she thought it was, she feared the excitable joy of this day may soon be over. Just recalling the horrifically painful suffering everyone had gone through during one of the most difficult times in Isaiah’s life still made her sick at the stomach despite the longevity of that atrocity.

    Torri closed her eyes and said a silent prayer as her mind turned over how Isaiah was nearly killed one ill-fated night over five years ago. Please, God, no more pain for him to bear, she whispered softly.

    Price Sheldon, a former and once celebrated teammate of Isaiah’s, was coming up for parole. The infamous center for the Wildcats had been convicted of attempted murder. The backup point guard and Isaiah’s best friend, Troy Dyson, had been an accomplice in the crime. Isaiah’s teammates had left him trapped inside his flashy black BMW sports car on active metro-link tracks, leaving him alone to die.

    Because Price had racked up some pretty heavy gambling debts with a mob of dangerous loan sharks, he and Troy had begun shaving points to influence the outcome of the basketball games to work off Price’s debt. To make a success of their illegal plan of action, they had to get rid of the straight-laced Isaiah, the mega talented point guard and one of the team’s top scorers. Isaiah had led the Wildcats to countless wins.

    Troy’s long-term jealously of Isaiah was what had allowed him to go along with Price’s horrific scheme against his best friend, though he wasn’t aware that the center actually intended to kill Isaiah. However, Troy had done absolutely nothing to stop Price once he’d found out the plan, which had made him an accessory to the crime.

    Isaiah was expected to testify as to why he thought Price shouldn’t be released from prison and why his former teammate was still a dangerous menace to society. Isaiah had lots of reasons why Price should stay locked up, but he also had grave concerns.

    Because of the criminal and psychological history in Troy’s family, he had been committed to a psychiatric treatment center instead of prison. He was also up for release in the near future, yet plenty of legal restrictions would be initiated against him by the presiding judge if he was released. Any limitations on him would be properly enforced.

    Isaiah covered Torrie’s hand with his own. Sorry if I’ve been a little bit preoccupied. Just can’t seem to stop thinking about the upcoming parole hearing.

    She ran her hand gently through his curly hair and lazily smoothed her fingertips across his satiny cheek. I kind of thought the court case was happening inside your head. Are you afraid to testify against Price’s release on parole?

    Isaiah shook his head. "Fear is not what I’d call it, yet I am a bit apprehensive about the entire hearing. I keep thinking maybe Price has already paid his debt to society. Since I am alive, perhaps he should be released and given the chance to try and lead a productive life. Maybe Price has learned some valuable lessons from his grave mistakes."

    Torri looked distressed. You’re not dead because God still has plans for your life. Had it been left up to Price Sheldon and Troy Dyson, your so-called best friend, you’d be six feet under and I’d be a widow raising twins on my own.

    Isaiah sighed hard. "If Price has been rehabilitated—and he isn’t able to get out and try to prove himself a changed man, how can we know if he’s learned anything from his tragic mistakes? Doesn’t he deserve a chance to show who he’s become?"

    Isaiah thought about how his dad preached to him about forgiveness at every opportunity. According to the Bible scholar in the family, Nicholas believed you had to forgive to be forgiven and that God was the final judge, jury and executioner.

    His fingertips danced gently across Torri’s full, deliciously ripened lips. If I don’t forgive Price, there’ll be no pardon for me either. We’re all so far from perfection. I want to make the right decision, one that I can comfortably live with. I want a sound resolution that’ll set good examples for our kids.

    Crossing her arms, as though she were cold, Torri shivered, vigorously rubbing her hands up and down her flesh to calm herself. She perfectly understood her husband’s ideology, but it didn’t’ stop her fearing for him. I know this is hard on you, boo, and I shouldn’t sit here and make it any worse. Please do what you think is best, whatever you feel is right. Trust in your instincts. They’ve carried you this far.

    Thanks, Torri. He kissed her forehead. I’ll never forget that I was left partially paralyzed by the drugs Price and Troy put into my system. I try hard not to think about when I couldn’t move anything below the waist. God fully restored me and I’m blessed.

    Torri fought back tears. We’re all blessed. God brought you back to us and He also put you and your father together.

    Isaiah thought about how he’d grown up without a father in his life. For years, he’d harbored anger and hate for the man he’d never so much as seen a picture of. Then, when he’d had enough money to track him down, he hired a private investigator. The outcome was different from anything he could’ve ever expected.

    Nicholas Reynolds was not the awful man Isaiah had created in his mind.

    Isaiah kissed Torri tenderly on the mouth. Let’s not dwell on this sad-sack stuff. On a brighter note, the twins’ fifth birthday party was a blast for everyone.

    Torri couldn’t help smiling brightly. Now that’s a nice, safe subject. Everything fell into place nicely. They loved that Auntie Lenora had rented a blowup yard thing.

    Lovely, classy, highly intelligent, and as controversial as one woman could be, Lenora Antoine was Isaiah’s mother’s best friend. She was an amazing defense attorney and Isaiah’s self-appointed, high-spirited godmother who loved using her bragging rights.

    Torri chuckled. Mommy Asia and Daddy Nick must’ve ordered the largest Disney birthday cake man ever made. My daddy could’ve easily played the clown he and Mom hired.

    Isaiah cracked up at Torri’s true statement.

    Ashton Jefferson was definitely a clown, but not a very entertaining one in Isaiah’s opinion. He was more of a loud-mouth jerk than anything. The young couple didn’t mix well with Torri’s flamboyant, overly eccentric parents, no matter how hard they tried to gel. Torri and Isaiah tried to make sure the twins got to know their maternal grandparents, but she constantly hoped their rudeness wouldn’t rub off on them.

    The Jeffersons had vehemently voiced disapproval over their daughter marrying a cripple, a wheelchair bound man who wouldn’t ever be able to run around a park or yard and play with his own children. Torri was pregnant and unwed when these slurs and insults had been made by her parents against the man she was crazy in love with.

    When Isaiah had been a heralded superstar basketball player, the Jeffersons saw him as the perfect match for their daughter. As it had begun to look like Isaiah may never walk again, Torri’s family had advised her to lose the loser as quickly as possible.

    In Ashton’s and Seressa’s estimation, their daughter deserved to have a great life with a whole man, not a half of one. They’d constantly reminded her of all the sexual limitations he’d have as a paralyzed male; he was hardly the best candidate for marriage.

    Isaiah had truly forgiven Torri’s parents for the horrible things they’d said and done to him and his parents during the most difficult times of his life. He made it his life’s work to seek forgiveness in his heart against those who wronged him, but he knew he’d never forget. He welcomed them into his home with open arms, yet he felt very uncomfortable around Ashton and Seressa, the fair-to-midland, wannabe-rich folks.

    It bothered Isaiah something terrible that he hadn’t grown closer to his children’s grandparents in five years—and he was even more fearful that they may never have an amicable relationship. He wasn’t good at pretentious behaviors. Isaiah was the type of man who called a spade a spade, much like his father and mother did.

    As young as Nicholas and Asianna were, the two children were highly aware of stark differences between the two sets of grandparents. Although they didn’t like going to the Jefferson’s, their parents took them to Chicago for a week in the summer while they stayed in a nearby hotel. Isaiah and Torri knew it wasn’t what was best for them, but the Jeffersons were crazy about the twins. Their grand-parenting and people skills left a lot to be desired and it was a wonder Torri had turned out to be so classy and well-rounded.

    What do you want for dinner? Torri asked Isaiah.

    He hunched his broad shoulders. Haven’t thought that far ahead. We can just eat out after we pick up the kids from Mom and Dad.

    Loving Isaiah’s suggestion, Torri smiled. It works for me.

    Torri appreciated any proposal that kept her out of the kitchen. She was a great cook, but she didn’t like to spend chunks of time in Isaiah’s favorite room in the house if it meant slaving over a hot stove. Also fantastic party-planners and hosts, the couple often hosted fabulous social functions in their home. All the wives of Isaiah’s teammates desired a place on the Reynolds’ guest list from luncheons to the children’s birthday parties or just impromptu or elegant dinner nights for adults only.

    The phone rang, interrupting the sense of peace the couple had finally regained.

    Reaching across his wife’s lap, Isaiah picked up the receiver.

    Hey, Isaiah, can you two join us for dinner when you pick up the kids?

    His mother’s voice was soft and warm, as always, making Isaiah smile.

    Asia was so soft-spoken that there were times when she could barely be heard. Her tone was an altogether different one in the courtroom, where she spoke powerfully and distinctly. She was well known for assertiveness and endless self-assurance—and her employees loved her. Asia’s client list read like a Who’s Who directory.

    I’m sure it’ll be okay, Mom, but let me check with Torri. Isaiah covered the mouthpiece with his hand. Mom wants us to stay for dinner when we pick up the kids. Is that okay?

    Torri grinned. I can’t believe you had to ask. I won’t try to find out what they’re cooking. I already know it’ll be off the chain.

    Isaiah laughed as he repositioned the phone. We’re on for dinner, Mom.

    Good! Dad will be excited. Auntie Lenora is coming, too. Can you get here about an hour earlier than originally planned?

    Earlier isn’t a problem. Can we bring anything?

    Just your sweet selves. Give Torri a kiss for us. See you soon, son.

    Love you, Mommy-Asia and Daddy Nick, Torri yelled toward the receiver.

    As soon as Isaiah hung up the phone, he brought Torri into his arms and gave her a staggering kiss. That’s from my parents, though I don’t think it would’ve been delivered with such passion. Hope you don’t mind me over doing it.

    Torri responded by kissing Isaiah back with equal passion. I love you to overdo it. Since we have a while before leaving, why don’t we linger away the time in our bedroom? She wiggled her hips in a flirtatious manner.

    Isaiah loved how Torri always let him know what she wanted and needed from him. There was very little guessing with her now. He didn’t like it when people expected him to read minds. Earlier in their relationship Torri wasn’t as vocal as she should’ve been with him and it had caused her to think things about him that simply weren’t true.

    Torri’s doubts about Isaiah wanting their baby was the most hurtful to him, yet he’d come to understand why she’d kept quiet. Her parents had played a big role in Torri’s inability to speak her mind regarding personal matters. Rarely had she been heard at home. Because her parents embarrassed her to no end, she didn’t make close friends, not the kind she’d take home to meet mom and dad.

    Interestingly enough, Torri’s home life mirrored the life Isaiah’s mother had had to endure at the hands of her own so-called religious parents. There were so many similarities between the two women he loved most in the world. Isaiah would never be able to thank his mother enough for taking Torri under her wing and giving her the type of nurturing she’d needed badly.

    ***

    The Reynolds home, an architectural masterpiece of sheer beauty, was airy and filled with natural sunlight and bushy green plants. The living room was filled with the warmth and love Asia and Nicholas felt for each other. Modern and eclectic European furnishings were found throughout the home, accented by priceless antiques and other unique treasures amassed from around the world. Dozens of oil paintings featuring African-American characters and themes hung on walls of the spacious residence.

    Asianna ran to Isaiah and practically leapt into her father’s outstretched arms. Just as he scooped up his delicious bundle of joy, he spotted his adorable son running at him full-speed. Nicky reached his father and grabbed him around the legs, nearly toppling him and his sister. All Isaiah could do was laugh. After dropping down on the sofa, he hugged both his children then settled a twin on each knee.

    Asianna was a miniature replica of her lovely grandmother, though she had Torri’s hazel moon-bright, almond-shaped eyes. Her thick chestnut brown hair was the same color and silky texture as Asia’s and a soft tawny brown complexion matched her grandmother’s creamy skin tone.

    Little Nicky was the spitting image of his father, just as Isaiah was the mirror image of his dad, Nicholas. All three males had dark curly hair, jet black bedroom eyes, thick eyelashes and smooth autumn brown complexions.

    Isaiah couldn’t help beaming at his mother and father who had their arms around each other’s waist. Looking at Nicholas was like looking at himself; the same curly locks, though his father’s hair was silvered at the temples. The dark, dramatic bedroom eyes had a way of stopping women long enough to take a second look. Isaiah was a few inches taller than his dad. Both men had muscular, athletic builds.

    Asia’s long, thick chestnut hair was striking against her near flawless, tawny-brown complexion. Her soulful hazel eyes were bright with passion. Standing around 5’7", she was a slender, wisp of a woman, yet curvy in all the right places. Though merely dressed in a white sweater, with a shawl collar, and slim black pants, Asia looked elegant.

    Whenever Isaiah thought about how his parents’ unyielding love had endured twenty-one years of absence in each other’s lives, it still amazed him. He planned to surprise Nicholas and Asia with a six-year anniversary party, which was also his and Torri’s anniversary. He planned to do something very special for his wife.

    The two couples had gotten married in the same ceremony. Asia had had no idea the other three had planned a double wedding, not until the very moment it had been announced during the ritual. Regardless of how stunned she’d been, Asia had been eager to marry the man she’d spent twenty-one long years dreaming about and pining away for every day and lonely night.

    Right after the wedding Nicholas had moved into the magnificent Toluca Lake home Isaiah had purchased for his mother in his rookie year of pro ball. Nicholas hadn’t wanted Asia to have to endure living in the same home he’d once shared with his ex-wife, Dr. Miranda George. He still owned the Pacific Palisades residence, but he’d leased it out to a couple who had also been newlyweds at the time.

    Once Isaiah settled the kids down on the sofa, he stood so the four adults could embrace. Loads of warmth and loving affection constantly passed between both Reynolds clans. They always kissed and hugged upon arrival then later on departure and often in between times. It was like mother, father and son were always making up for lost time.

    Where’s Auntie Lenora? Isaiah asked his mother.

    She’s on her way. Asia looked over at Torri. I could use some company in the kitchen. Care to join me?

    Torri smiled brightly. I’d love to. I might even help out a little.

    Knowing how Torri loathed most kitchen duties, everyone laughed.

    Asia and Torri went off to the kitchen while Isaiah and Nicholas settled down in the spacious family room. The kids left the room to go back to playing with toys.

    Nicholas loved to spend time with his grandchildren. It wouldn’t ever make up for all the years he’d missed out on with his own son, but hanging out with the little ones kept him happy and content. There were times when Asianna and little Nicky completely wore down Nicholas and Asia, but they wouldn’t dare cut the visits short.

    How’s it going, son?

    Pretty good. Isaiah cleared his throat. I’ve been thinking about Price’s upcoming parole hearing. Can you tell me again exactly how that works?

    Nicholas looked closely at his son. You sound worried. Are you?

    Isaiah shrugged. A little, I guess. He then told his father the same things he’d shared with his wife earlier.

    Nicholas looked puzzled. Am I hearing you saying you want to testify in favor of Price getting paroled?

    Not exactly. But what if I don’t testify period? Don’t you think it’s possible that he’s rehabilitated? There are enough brothers in jail, many innocent ones.

    The pride Nicholas felt for his son was immeasurable. How Isaiah now felt about Price’s penalties had changed considerably. His rage had been strong enough to control him back then, when he’d wanted Price to get the maximum sentence allowed. Since that dark time, Nicholas had repeatedly talked to Isaiah about forgiveness.

    You should only testify if you don’t believe he’s been reformed. I don’t know if Price has changed or not. But I can see this is a heavy burden for you, Nicholas said.

    "It is. Torri doesn’t understand why I believe he should get a second chance. All she thinks about is what might’ve happened. It does no good to tell her I’m not dead as a result of their actions. She can’t get past the fact Price and Troy left me there to die."

    Can you understand her point of view? Nicholas queried.

    Sure I do, but that doesn’t make it okay for me to ask for a man to be kept in prison if he’s changed. I guess there’s really no way of knowing.

    "Of course there is. How he’s conducted himself in jail is one way of telling. It’s easy enough for me to find out if he’s steered clear of trouble or not during incarceration. His counseling record will speak volumes. I can also look at what types of programs and courses he enrolled in. Gamblers Anonymous is one program he definitely needed."

    Isaiah looked optimistic. Think you can check things out for me, Dad?

    I’ll do what I can, son. Going with your gut instinct is one good piece of advice I can definitely offer you. Since you haven’t visited Price in prison, you might want to do that. A face-to-face meeting before the hearing might tell you a lot.

    Isaiah leaned forward in his seat. Like what?

    If Price is still resentful of you, it’ll clearly show. If he’s remorseful for what he did to you, you’ll be able to see that also. The final decision is yours. You only get one shot at this, unless his parole is denied regardless of testimonies.

    Nicholas guessed that his son didn’t want the responsibility of Price spending any more time in jail if he’d been rehabilitated. It was understandable and commendable. On the other hand, he feared that Price might come after Isaiah again if he got out and hadn’t repented. Over five years could do a lot to change a man for the better or more so for the worse. He also suspected that Isaiah was burdened down with guilt; displaced culpability. These very issues could become huge problems for his son.

    What about Troy? How do you feel about his pending release?

    Tears came to Isaiah’s eyes—and it surprised Nicholas. He’d thought his son had truly come to grips with Troy’s involvement in the attempt on his life.

    Isaiah wrung his hands together in anguish. What he allowed to happen to me still hurts more than I can express. We were like brothers. At least, I’d thought so. All the time we spent together obviously meant nothing to him. He knew me way longer than he’d known Price, yet… Is jealousy that powerful?

    Asianna and Nicky ran into the room and climbed onto their daddy’s lap, looking up at him. With tears in her eyes, she kissed both of Isaiah’s cheeks. Don’t cry, Daddy. I love you. So does Nicky. Don’t we, Nicky?

    Yeah, Daddy, we love you. Don’t cry. Nicky also kissed his daddy’s cheeks.

    Those sweet little voices and the tenderness had Isaiah fighting hard to keep from completely breaking down. That they loved him unconditionally was one of the most incredible events in his life. His children totally trusted him and it was too, too awesome for him to comprehend at times. His family depended on him for so many things, which kept him on his knees in prayer. He depended on them, too. Only God could supply him with everything he needed to keep his family together and happy.

    If he and his father hadn’t hooked up when they’d done so, Isaiah wasn’t sure where he’d be in life. A day didn’t pass by that he didn’t think about their first meeting. Isaiah’s anger had been out of control that remarkable day. He had finally found Nicholas and had told him just what he’d thought of him, calling him nothing more than a sperm donor. Then something totally unexpected had occurred.

    Isaiah’s father had actually embraced him. Opposite of what he had expected him to do, Nicholas had not denied his son, nor had he tried to send him away. They’d also broken bread together that astonishing day. It was another day he never wanted to forget.

    No one but Isaiah’s mother could’ve prepared him for the type of man his father was, but she’d chosen to remain quiet about Nicholas over those long, lonely years. The only other truly spiritual man Isaiah had come into contact with was his mother’s uncle, the late Carlton Thomas, who’d taken his grand-nephew to church on a regular basis.

    Isaiah hadn’t developed a relationship with Wilkes Morrell, his maternal grandfather, until a couple of years before his death. They’d become very close at the time of his grandfather’s demise. Wilkes and Virginia had had deep regrets over the way they’d turned their backs on Asia when she’d gotten pregnant. Isaiah was sure both had been forgiven if they’d asked God.

    Nicholas’s deep spirituality had reached out to his son like a beacon in the darkness, enveloping him like steel bands of light; nurturing him in the power of his love. Isaiah hadn’t known love between two grown men could be so pure, so empowering. It was his father who had taught him how to pray and how to trust and believe in God wholeheartedly. Nicholas had also taught him to believe only half of what he’d seen and none of what he’d heard. Isaiah hadn’t ever known anyone so utterly phenomenal.

    Asia had taught her son many lessons, but his father had trained him in how to become a man, a real man, one who stood for something good and everything right.

    Isaiah was the great father and husband he was because of Nicholas’s guidance.

    Lenora suddenly blew into the room, smelling like a field

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