Chapter Ten, An Unexpected Call

Beth stepped through the back door, arms loaded with flowers from the yard. Hearing her phone ring she dashed to the kitchen counter, laid the flowers down and scooped up the phone. Her heart caught at the sight of her caller ID.

"Hello?"

"Hi, Beth. How are you?" A deep, smooth voice resonated in her ear.

"Adam," she breathed. "Hi…I'm fine. And you?

"I'm ok…tired…ready to go home."

"Oh? Are you still at your buddy's?"

"Yep. I'm packing up, though…heading home tomorrow. Do you like your cottage?"

"Like it? I LOVE it! Thank you, so much! It's so cozy and beautiful…I could stay here forever. I've spent the last two days simply enjoying the solitude. Betty stocked my frig so full, I could get by without shopping for a week." Beth laughed, feeling a little giddy.

"Good…I'm glad. You sound more relaxed and happy. If you do decide to take in some sites, there's a brochure at the land office about Smoky Mountain National Park."

"Thanks…I'll get to that, I just needed some alone time, first."

"I understand. Has it helped?"

"Oh, yes…I think my muddled brain has finally cleared enough for me to think straight."

"Good. I've been praying for you. Remember…I'm here if you need a friend…someone to talk to."

"Thanks, Adam. That means a lot."

"Do you plan to attend church Sunday?"

"Yes. Betty invited me to go with them. She tried to get me out of the house today, but I told her I needed at least one more day of quiet. I might go browse the Old Mill Square tomorrow. She said there's a local pottery shop there?"

"Yes. Pigeon River Pottery…You'll love it. They have beautiful pieces made out of area clay. There's also a General Store, several gift shops, a candy shop, and you have to eat at the Old Mill Restaurant. They make the best corn fritters, Beth. Mmm…just thinking about them makes my mouth water."

Men and their stomachs…Giggling, she said, "Sounds like that's where I'll be eating. Too bad you won't be here to enjoy them with me."

Adam laughed…a deep, rich laughter that wrapped her in warmth. "Sure…torture me, why don't you."

"Sorry," she said, hearing the smile in her own voice.

"Sure you are." He chuckled and then sighed. "Well…I hate to go, but I need to finish packing so I can start early tomorrow."

"I understand. Thanks for calling."

"No problem. I told you I'd call if I didn't hear from you."

"That you did and I appreciate it. We'll talk again soon?"

"You can count on it."

"Great. Be careful going home."

"I will." Adam's voice grew soft and tender. "Take care, Beth…I'll talk to you soon."

"Alright…You take care, too…Bye, Adam." Beth heard the breathiness in her own voice, but she couldn't seem to help herself. Adam was the most amazing guy she'd ever met. Thoughts of Kyle threatened to intrude, but she pushed them aside. Thanks for giving me a friend in Adam, Lord…

~Linnette R Mullin