Clue Into Kindness

  LOVE IS SERIES #2

  “…Love is kind…” 1 Corinthians: 13:4

  CLUE INTO KINDNESS

  Gay N. Lewis

  Copyright 2016 Gay N. Lewis

  ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

  Cover Art by Joan Alley

  Edited by Susan M. Baganz

  This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are the product of the author’s imagination and used fictitiously.

  Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. No part of this book may be scanned, uploaded or distributed via the Internet or any other means without the permission of Prism Book Group. Please purchase only authorized editions and do not participate in the electronic piracy of copyrighted material. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

  Published by Prism Book Group

  ISBN-10: 1-943104-41-7

  ISBN-13: 978-1-943104-41-3

  First Edition, 2016

  Published in the United States of America

  Contact info: contact@prismbookgroup.com

  http://www.prismbookgroup.com

  TABLE OF CONTENTS

  LOVE IS SERIES #2

  CLUE INTO KINDNESS

  TABLE OF CONTENTS

  DEDICATION

  CHAPTER ONE

  CHAPTER TWO

  CHAPTER THREE

  CHAPTER FOUR

  CHAPTER FIVE

  CHAPTER SIX

  CHAPTER SEVEN

  CHAPTER EIGHT

  CHAPTER NINE

  CHAPTER TEN

  CHAPTER ELEVEN

  ABOUT THE AUTHOR

  DEDICATION

  To the kindest man I know.

  And I’m blessed to be married to him.

  CHAPTER ONE

  Georgia loved this Italian restaurant, and having dinner with her husband’s best friend, Ken, and his wife was a treat too. And to top it all off, Jana, Ken’s wife, had become her best friend. Fine food with companions she loved—an evening couldn’t be better.

  At least until this moment, anyway. Georgia wished the topic hadn’t switched to political leaders.

  “Georgia, you don’t know what you’re talking about. That guy is a bozo.”

  Georgia cringed as though bitten by a scorpion. Why did he need to sound so condescending?

  Ken winked at her and reached out to touch Alan’s shoulder. “Hey, old buddy, don’t get all excited. The four of us can share different opinions, can’t we? Shoot, you and I’ve been friends since kindergarten. Have we always agreed? Nope—not hardly. Remember those days when we argued at recess? You wanted to play tag with the girls and I wanted to swing. I ended up going with you. Turned out well, chasing those little lassies was fun too.”

  How kind of Ken to defend her after Alan’s embarrassing remark. Had her sweetheart harped on such things before they married? Georgia sighed. No, she didn’t think so—didn’t remember any. When they dated, he’d complimented her and seemed pleased with anything she’d said. If he’d made some of the observations he’d made today, she might’ve entertained second thoughts about the life-time commitment.

  Jana sipped an iced tea. “Ken always defends the underdog. Don’t you, honey? He’s been like that ever since I’ve known him, but I agree with Alan. That politician is a bozo.”

  Georgia toyed with a napkin. “I didn’t care for the way he voted on the tax issue, however he’s done well with other matters.” Who cared if this group failed to appreciate her opinions? She held the right to speak them, even though she risked her husband’s scorn. On the other hand, would this kind of reaction cause him to treasure her? Probably not. She wanted Alan to appreciate and value her accomplishments. Oh well, she’d keep trying to make him see her as special.

  “Which day in our history did you become an expert on current events? When we dated, you were a party girl—the campus beauty queen. You weren’t tuned into politics.” Alan waved a dismissive hand as he spoke to Georgia. “Now, me? I’ve always been interested. I study the issues and learn what’s going on.” He wiggled a finger. “After three years of marriage, you’ve become a real know-it-all.”

  “Maybe you’ve taught her a lot about world affairs.” Jana crossed her legs and shifted her weight. “You’ve shown Ken a thing or two. He watches cable television now—even reads the newspaper. I like having him at the morning table with me rather than sitting at the computer.”

  How polite of Jana to smooth things over.

  A server carried a large tray on his shoulder and the aroma of garlic drifted down to their table.

  “I thought he had our order. I’m starving.” Alan viewed the dimly lit restaurant as if he hoped another server would appear with their meal. “I made sure my customers’ bread baskets were full to go along with their drinks when I waited tables in college. Our waiter doesn’t understand his job.” He held up a basket. “Look at this. This thing should be restocked with rolls, and the guy can’t bother to refill our glasses, either. He won’t get much of a gratuity from me.”

  Jana nodded. “He’s forgetful but I’d hate not to give him the fifteen percent.”

  “When a person does a respectable job, I tip twenty to thirty percent.”

  “Perhaps he’s new.” Georgia lifted her eyebrows as she scanned the room.

  “No matter. He needs to use common sense. When I held his position, I earned more money in tips from satisfied customers than all the servers combined. The staff couldn’t figure out how I did it. I used my head and checked on people.”

  Georgia patted Alan’s arm. “You did well, honey. You took me to some elegant places during those days. We even went to restaurants similar to this. Alan was very romantic back then.” She fingered the white table cloth. “Our favorite Italian bistro sported red-checkered cloths and candles instead of this neutral color.”

  “If I’d known Ken through college years, our dates might have been hot dogs and free movies.” Jana touched her husband’s arm and gave him a wink. “And I’d have loved every minute of it. Too bad I didn’t meet you earlier.”

  “I wish you’d been around, too. Hot dogs would’ve tasted gourmet with you there.” Ken shrugged. “The paycheck from the campus bookstore was small—Alan earned more in the restaurant, but I enjoyed the job. Reading has always been a hobby to me, and now as editor of Always Texas Living, it’s my career.”

  “But we didn’t take the paper in the early days of marriage.” Jana’s tone carried a hint of reproach, however she smiled apologetically and glanced at Georgia. “A long-time habit. Had to have my newspaper first thing with coffee.”

  Now why couldn’t Alan be more like Ken? How she longed for cozy moments similar to the ones her friends shared. Georgia tried to ignore the gnawing ache of loneliness in her heart.

  “Alan finally convinced me to subscribe to the Houston Chronicle. Before the paper, I got information solely off the Internet. Good job, old buddy.” Ken lifted a water glass in a mock toast. “Thanks. The newspaper helps me with work. You can’t imagine how many ideas it generates for me.”

  “Glad I helped.” Alan searched the room again for the server and scowled. “Where is the waiter?” He turned his attention to Jana. “Ken wasn’t as fast on his feet as me—never has been. I always tagged the most girls at recess.” He gestured—palms up. “Maybe that’s why I liked it so much. Did you know I ran track in high school? I switched to baseball when I entered college. My speed and good arm earned me the position of shortstop on the team. Found it difficult to maintain my GPA, work at night, and take on athletic duties during the day, but I did it.”

  “I keep Alan’s trophies in the bookcase. I’m sure you’ve see
n them. He has many accomplishments, past and present.” Georgia smiled at Jana. Maybe that remark will please Alan and win some points for me. Hope so, anyway.

  Jana performed a subtle eye roll. “Yes. He pointed them out once and described each event. The awards are good mementoes of former days. Ken often talks about those high school meets and university ball games. We don’t have plaques or medals at our house. We aren’t athletically inclined.”

  Ken and Jana grinned at each other.

  Georgia blotted her lips and returned the napkin to her lap. “Alan runs five miles every morning. I’m so proud of him. Rain or shine—he’s out there.”

  Alan patted his abdomen. “Got to keep the six-pack in shape.” He pointed a finger at Georgia. “When are you going to start jogging? Your waistline could use some attention. You’ve gained a few since our wedding day.”

  “You’re right, but I’m content to merely walk a mile or two.” Georgia clutched her hands in her lap.

  “You should join me sometime for yoga class.” Jana glanced at her watch. “My session usually meets right now, however the class for tonight was canceled.”

  “Yoga might be okay for stretching, but it won’t burn as many calories as a decent run. I’ve tried to convince Georgia to go with me every morning. An early jog is beneficial for the metabolism, and it spawns more energy. She’s gained three pounds—one for each year we’ve been married. At this rate, she’ll be fifty pounds heavier on our golden anniversary.”

  Why must he publicize such things? Georgia determined to show no response. Was her smile placid? She hoped so.

  “Are you going to train for the marathon?” While toying with his spoon, Ken directed his question to Alan.

  “Yep. Plan to win the thing.”

  All this bragging is bound to bore Jana. Georgia focused her attention on her friend. “Are you enjoying your promotion? I can’t imagine sitting at a desk all day and analyzing data on spread sheets.”

  “The work overwhelmed me at first, but I love it now.”

  “New employment can do it. I remember when I initially joined Wick’s Pipe and Fitting, I was uncomfortable, but it didn’t take me long to find my groove. Of course, I’m a people person, and selling has always been my thing.” Alan’s proud grin reminded Georgia of a cat she’d once seen who’d hidden a songbird in the bushes.

  The server appeared, placed dishes in front of them, and mixed up the orders. Alan frowned. “I asked for lasagna, and Ken ordered the grilled chicken.” He switched the plates. “Georgia wanted fettuccini, and Jana requested spaghetti. Ladies, trade your platters.” He squinted at the waiter. “Would you bring bread and refill the tea glasses.”

  With a red face, the server nodded and scurried off.

  “Honestly. Did you ever witness such incompetence?” Alan expressed his opinion loud enough for the retreating employee to hear it.

  Georgia picked up her fork and poised to eat. “Oh, it’s okay. No harm done.”

  Alan scowled. “Perhaps not, but even if you don’t agree about politicians, why can’t you see eye to eye with me regarding the waiter?”

  “Sorry. I guess you’re right. He has a lot to learn.” She turned her head toward Jana. “How’s your spaghetti?”

  “Spicy and delicious.”

  “This chicken is good, too.” Ken leaned in to kiss Jana. “But not as juicy as yours. My wife treats me to fantastic suppers and her grilled chicken is a favorite of mine.”

  Jana beamed. “Thanks. I use Mom’s recipe. I marinate with secret spices for a minimum of six hours before I place it on the grill.”

  “Georgia does okay with spaghetti and meat sauce from a jar. She’s not a fancy cook.”

  “And it’s a good thing I’m not a food expert. How else could I help you keep your six-pack in such excellent condition? If I were a gourmet chef, you might need to run ten miles each day.”

  Three of them laughed as though she’d told the best yarn of the century.

  Georgia glanced at Alan. He hadn’t found merriment in the comment. Maybe her statement sounded too unkind. Well, she’d make it up to him. This man owned her heart. No way did she want to hurt him.

  CHAPTER TWO

  Jana changed into her cozy pink nightshirt and padded to the dresser. As she brushed out brunette curls tinted with bronze, she glanced at Ken in the mirror and her heart fluttered. Could he be any cuter? Nope, not possible. He might not run marathons, but when he took his shirt off as he was doing at the moment? Well, the sight of his broad shoulders and muscled arms gave her goose bumps. She caught her breath. Not only good-looking, but he was considerate, attentive, a good provider, and in love with her. What more did a woman want? Not at all like Georgia’s husband who boasted about himself and bullied his wife.

  “Why do you hang out with Alan Davis? He blows his own horn too much.”

  “Aw, you just need to overlook the bragging. He’s a straight-up guy underneath. Smart, thoughtful, and he’d do anything for me.”

  “You’ve been friends forever, but some moments, I find him hard to endure.”

  Ken removed the mountain of decorative, patterned pillows of gold mingled with tan, turned down the cream colored satin duvet and climbed into bed. After propping his arm under his head, he watched his wife slather moisturizer on her face and hands. “Most of the time, I don’t notice. If I do, I just ignore it.”

  “Or like Georgia, you switch the subject.” Jana twisted her lips as if she’d stuck a sour pickle into her mouth.

  “Yeah, that works too.” Ken grinned at the facial expression.

  “Did he act in a similar way as a kid?”

  “No. I don’t think so, don’t remember it, anyway. He was competitive and always a leader. The kids naturally flocked to him. If he wanted to organize us into a game of some sort, we gathered in a group and let him direct us.”

  Jana crawled under the blanket, snuggled under Ken’s arm and rested her head on his shoulder. Could she feel more secure or safer? She doubted it.

  “I’m lucky to have you. You are attentive and caring. By the way, thanks for unloading the dishwasher this morning.” She made her purr resemble a kitten satiated with milk.

  He kissed her nose. “You’re welcome. I’m the blessed one. I’m married to a fantastic cook. The least I can do is help with dishes.”

  “And thank for saying so at dinner. Alan was uncharitable when he talked about Georgia’s kitchen skills. A guy like him probably thinks his wife should do all the housework. You might not get any meals from me if you told our friends how bad my cooking was, or that I didn’t know a thing about politics…or that I…was…fat! Good grief! The guy thinks Georgia is a dolt for having political opinions, and talks about her weight.”

  “Georgia loves him. I guess it’s the reason she ignores his hurtful comments.”

  “She stands up for herself in a gentle way, and I really admire her because of it. I doubt I could be her friend if she ignored his ugly remarks.”

  “I was with Alan the night he met Georgia. Her quiet confidence is one reason Alan was drawn to her, and she’s a perfect balance for him.”

  “She compliments him even when he spouts something unkind. How do people manage it? If I see someone rude, I’m afraid I say so. You’re pretty noble at covering up cruel remarks and turning them into compliments. What’s your secret?”

  Ken played with Jana’s hair. “I reflect on the good stuff a person does and make allowances for the bad. There are two sides to all things, you know.”

  “True. Your positive attitude is one of the reasons I fell in love with you.”

  “Yeah, but it took me a long while to convince you we were meant for each other.”

  Jana’s giggled. “I’m cautious.”

  “When I spied you at the office Christmas party wearing that red dress, I fell in love with you.”

  “So you’ve said.”

  Ken kissed the top of her head. “I’ve thanked our office manager many times for inviting you. I
f we hadn’t been in an audit, you wouldn’t have received an invitation, but our manager included all the service industries. I sent him a pound of truffles last holiday. Remind me to send two pounds of chocolates this Christmas—one for each of the years we’ve been married. I’m going to send him something every December to thank him for throwing the party where we met.”

  “What will you give him when we celebrate our golden anniversary? He doesn’t want fifty pounds of candy.”

  “Hmm, how about fifty pairs of socks?”

  Jana laughed. “Yeah, right. Socks are a lovely gift. Make them all the same style and color, and then if the washer eats one, he’ll always own one to match. Recap again what you felt when you saw me. I love hearing the story.”

  “Okay. I love telling the story. I was exchanging ideas with the photographer about photos for the upcoming magazine, and all of a sudden he barked ‘whoa!’ I turned around to see who captured his attention, and there you stood. Your red dress with the plunging neckline stopped just short of here.” He touched her with his index finger to indicate the spot. “And yum—the thing boasted a split up the side to reveal your gorgeous legs. Not only were you beautiful, but you controlled the room.”

  “Did I divulge how long I shopped for the dress? I wanted one that was appropriate but I sought to maintain a professional image.”

  Ken laughed. “Sweetheart, your choice was no work outfit. Every guy in the place wanted to meet you.”

  “I only saw you.”

  “Yeah, because I nearly knocked over a table of canapés to get to your side. I’d have beaten Alan in a foot race if he’d been there.”

  “You impressed me from the get-go.”