Free Beyond the Quiet Hills by Aaron McCarver Page B

not come into the family business. It had been the Andersons’ dream that he would take part in the business with his brothers as they were older, but they had never rebuked Paul for it. They were very proud of their preacher son, and as the minister repeated the familiar words of the marriage ceremony, Hawk saw the elderly couple beaming with pride.
    Reverend Jefferson was deliberate in his weddings. He never rushed through them but pronounced each word solemnly, almost lovingly, and gave to every wedding he performed a grace and dignity that never left the memories of the couples that stood before him. Now he was having the two repeat their vows, and as Paul promised to love and honor Rhoda as long as he lived, the tall minister’s eyes were fixed on his face. He shifted his gaze, then said, “Rhoda, repeat after me. I, Rhoda Harper, do promise to love, honor, and obey. . . .”
    Rhoda repeated the words almost in a whisper, but they were audible throughout the room. For her, this moment seemed like some sort of fairy tale. For years she had felt as if a dark cloak had weighed her down. Now it seemed as if time stood still. She remembered the day Jesus had lifted her out of a dark and bitter past and forgiven her. She would never forget from where she had come, but her heart was filled with a deep gratitude and joy for the honor God was giving to her now. Looking fully into Paul’s face, taking in the sandy brown hair, the plain features, and the total seriousness that now occupied him, she solemnly made her vows aloud to him, but inwardly she was saying, Oh, God, never let me fail this man . . . !
    Finally Reverend Jefferson smiled and closed his book. “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride, Paul.”
    Paul put his hands on Rhoda’s shoulders and leaned forward. His lips fell on hers, and they were soft and warm and yielding. Then he heard her say as he drew back, “I’ll always love you, Paul!”
    And then they were surrounded by family and friends congratulating them.
    After the wedding refreshments were brought in, Hawk made it a point to go up and stand beside Rhoda. She had served everyone, and now they were isolated in the room, as much as was possible.
    Rhoda looked at him and said abruptly, “Hawk, you’ve never faulted me about my past. You don’t know how much that’s meant to me.”
    â€œWell, I understand that’s what Christians do,” Hawk remarked. “You look beautiful, Rhoda,” he said. “You and Paul are going to have a fine life.”
    At that moment Paul came up and slapped Hawk between the shoulders. “Now I’m an old married man just like you.”
    â€œThat you are,” Hawk grinned. “And you can start learning how to be a good husband.”
    â€œMaybe you can give me some lessons.”
    â€œNot me,” Hawk protested, a wry grin touching his lips. “I’m still learning myself.”
    â€œWhat about Jacob?” Paul asked and noted at once that Hawk’s mood changed. “Is he going back with you?”
    â€œNo, he won’t be going back with us to Watauga.”
    â€œOh, that’s too bad,” Rhoda said. “I know you’re disappointed.”
    â€œYes, I am, but it’s his decision.”
    â€œDo you think if I talk to him it might help?” Paul asked anxiously.
    Hawk hesitated and then said reluctantly, “No, perhaps that might be too much pressure.”
    Paul, however, could sense the longing in his friend’s heart to have his son go back with him.
    â€œHow long a honeymoon will you two need?” Hawk asked.
    â€œWhen were you planning to go back?” Rhoda asked.
    â€œWill three days be time enough?”
    â€œOh yes.” Paul stepped over and put his arm around Rhoda and winked at Hawk. “You understand, I’m not settling for a three-day honeymoon. Our honeymoon will continue on