Page 97 of Hidden Chance

“Try not to think about it.”

“Jemi?”

“Yeah?”

“What’s the worst that could happen?”

“You’re asking because you want to be prepared?”

“Yes.”

“What do you think Jesus did as he carried his cross on his back? He knew what was about to happen, and I couldn’t imagine worse than that.”

“He would have been focused on His Father.”

“Yes. And you don’t need to know what the worst could be. All you need to do is focus on your Father.”

“Okay.”

“There is one other thing.”

“What?”

“Only speak when you’re spoken to. Don’t waste your words, and don’t offer anything that’s not asked for.”

“Okay. I’ll try to remember.”

“Also.”

“There’s more?”

Jemi smiled. “If I get us free, make sure you do whatever I tell you without question. Understood?”

“If you get us free, I’ll do whatever you want for the rest of my life.”

“Otherwise, I’ll see you in paradise.”

“I have to keep that at the forefront of my mind. This isn’t forever. Whatever pain I’m about to face won’t last. There is joy following. I just have to make it through.” She whimpered. “I don’t want to do this.”

“Hey, shhh. It will be okay. I promise. We’ve got Jesus, remember? We’re not alone. When you lose all ofyour strength, you will have His to rely on. You must believe that.”

Hannah started hyperventilating. “I know, but?—”

“Look at me. Slow down your breathing. Don’t forget to speak to God. Focus on Him. Can you do that?”

She nodded and stared at a spot on the floor, gaining back control. Then the door opened.

“Focus on God, not them,” Jemi said quickly as several men entered.

Two of them had assault rifles, and Hannah gasped when she recognized the third as he entered followed by another man.

Pike crossed his arms and shook his head. “I told them I didn’t believe them when they said you were here.” He looked at the ceiling and sighed. “I tried to protect you, Hannah. This wasn’t how I wanted things to go. I didn’t want this for you. You didn’t deserve this, but you wouldn’t give in.”

“So this is my fault?” Seeing Pike gave her hope. He wouldn’t let them hurt her. He may not be a good man, but he’d never let her suffer.

“Why did you come to Burma? Why couldn’t you leave it alone?”

“Someone broke into my house and tried to kill me, and I’m supposed to ignore it?”

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