Page 14 of Embracing Hope

Hope stifled a giggle as Isaac settled into the tiny wooden princess chair, grasping the delicate china teacup with his large fingers. It was clear he was new to the whole “tea party” experience, but she truly admired his effort for Marah. Despite his obvious preference for any other activity, he embraced the moment with good humor while making the six-year-old laugh. “I still think it might be a good idea if I sit on the floor,” Isaac said to the little girl who poured “tea” from the china carafe with a big bright daisy painted on the side matching the design on the cups.

“Guests don’t sit on the floor,” Marah said sassily. She was six going on twenty. Hope couldn’t count the number of funny stories Courtney had told her about Marah’s shenanigans at school.

Isaac flicked his gaze to Hope, silently asking for help, but she simply shrugged. He smirked and again shifted uncomfortably in the too-small chair. “Something tells me you’re getting a lot of entertainment out of seeing my discomfort.”

“What makes you say that?” She pretended to sip her tea, lifting her pinky finger for effect.

“Because every time I look at you, you’re giggling in my direction.”

“Do you find that offensive?” She looked at him through the veil of her lashes.

“Payback is hell.” His grin widened.

Hope realized Marah had become very quiet. The little girl had fallen asleep with her cheek lying on the table. “Looks like we bored the princess to sleep.”

“With the princess peacefully sleeping, I'm ready to get off this chair.” He stood up and, just like when he climbed out of the Mustang, he stretched.

“Back issues?”

“On occasion.”

“I’m sorry.”

“No, you’re not.” He chuckled.

She stood. “I’m going to carry Marah to her bed.”

Hope hefted the little girl up into her arms much like a heavy sack of potatoes. She stirred a little but went back to sleep when Hope placed her in the twin-sized bed with a headboard shaped like a castle.

Going back into the outer room, she didn’t see Isaac. She searched and found him outside, taking down the old and weathered tire swing.

She stepped out. “I’m sure that was a safety hazard.”

He brought his chin up, nodding. “I found some rope in the garage. I’ll have it back up and as good as new.”

“Do you have kids?” She leaned her back against the tree and watched him.

“Nope,” he said as he threw the new rope over the branch.

“You truly made Marah's day. You impressed Courtney as well.” It was refreshing to see someone who seemed tough take the time to engage with a child and help fix her swing.

“If you don’t mind me asking, where’s Marah’s father?”

“He and Courtney divorced recently. It’s a messy situation and Marah doesn’t get to see her father often.”

Concern etched lines around Isaac’s mouth. “I hate to hear that. I can’t imagine my childhood without my father. He could be firm, but he was also the best man I’ve ever met.”

“Daddy can be a bit much sometimes, but he’s also one of the strongest, kindest men I know.”

Isaac accidentally let the tire slip from his grasp, sending it rolling down the grassy slope. Hope and Isaac raced after it to prevent it from reaching the creek. Just as Isaac caught up, his boot slipped in the mud, sending him tumbling face-first onto the grass. Hope couldn't help but laugh, doubling over as she tried to regain her composure.

“You think this is funny?” Isaac said as he pushed himself to stand.

“Yes, I do,” she said between sobs of laughter.

“I hope you find this funny too.” He scooped her up and swung her over his shoulder as he headed for the creek.

“What are you doing?” She lightly pummeled his back.

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