Page 61 of When Love Is Lost and Found

"Have a safe trip," Dad says, handing me the keys to the van. “We'll see you on Tuesday."

Mom gives Noah and me hugs and kisses and smiles at Sharon.

"Have fun, you two," I say as I take Noah's hand, and we go our separate ways.

The drive home is uneventful. The lively chatter between Sharon and Noah convinces me that bringing her into the family as his nanny and teacher was one of my parents' best decisions. Her teaching style incorporates games and activities that keep Noah engaged and entertained while he learns.

Walking into the church building, I notice the sign directing teens to the youth class and pause before entering the auditorium. "Are you attending youth group?" I ask, glancing at Sharon.

"No," she says.

We take Noah to his Sunday school class and sign him in.

We're a bit early, so I don't expect to see Loren when we find our seats in the back of the auditorium.

"I sometimes forget how young you are," I say. “You're not like most girls your age."

"Is that a compliment or a complaint?" Sharon asks, smiling.

"Definitely not a complaint," I say. "I love that about you."

"What?" she asks. "My age, my maturity, or my quick wit?"

"Everything," I say, "I love everything about you."

"Good morning!" Loren's voice rings out behind us.

Sharon and I stand up to hug her before she sits beside Sharon.

"I'm so glad you made it back," she says. "Where are your parents?"

"They decided to stay a couple of more days," I say, "sans the three kids tagging along."

"That's wonderful!" exclaims Loren. "What about the little guy?"

"He's in Sunday school," Sharon says. "Probably talking everyone's ears off. He had so much fun."

"Not as much fun as we did," I laugh.

"Why? Did something happen?"

"We got stuck in an elevator at our hotel," Sharon says.

"Oh no!" Loren exclaims immediately, looking at me.

"I was fine," I say. "I made it out of there alive."

"Oh goodness," she continues. "Was it just the two of you?"

"Yes," I say.

"Well, good thing you were together to keep each other company."

Sharon looks at me and smiles shyly. I'm sure we're both thinking of the kiss that never was.

Loren notices Sharon and me exchanging glances, but being the prudent lady she is, she says nothing.

"I would love it if you two came over for lunch after service," Loren says.

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