The Silver Linings

Book Series: Gables of Legacy   (Byrnehouse-Davies & Hamilton)  

Publishing Date: 2002

Author: Anita Stansfield

Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.

Category: LDS Contemporary Romance
Point of View: Third Person Limited- Jess
Chapter Count: 14
Page Count: 222

For Conrad and Diane

Chapter 1

Ten days till the wedding! Tamra reflects on everything that occurred in the last volume-her abuse riddled childhood that turned out happily-ever-after-all! That is AFTER she joined the church, served a mission and met Jess Hamilton.
A phone call from the states interrupts Tamra's thoughts, it's her dad, Brady, who regrets to inform Tamra his mother, her grandmother, passed away in her sleep last night. Everyone insists Jess and Tamra hop BACK on a plane to Minnesota for the funeral, everything is ready here and they'll be back in time for the wedding. Shoo!
So that's what they do.
Brady and Claudia are completely lost in how to arrange a funeral service. Since nobody in Tamra's family belonged to any organized religion, it's up to Tamra to contact a local LDS bishop to ask if he wouldn't mind conducting a non-religious service for these people. Since the bishop and Relief Society president have nothing better to do, they are more than happy to step in and take care of EVERYTHING from rounding up speakers and musical numbers to the food served at the luncheon. Because this is an Anita Stansfield book, nobody has any problems or issues with any of this.

Chapter 2

There's plenty of missionary opportunities as Tamra and Jess explain to Brady and Claudia why this bishop doesn't wear fancy robes or get paid for what he does. Jess and Tamra stop by Myrna's Bar before leaving town. Tamra's mom is cordial and it's a quick visit before they're back on the plane to Australia where Michael and Emily are waiting to meet them.
Next on the plot complication list: Jess and Tamra feel VERY STRONGLY they should adopt little Evelyn so they can raise her as their own. She won't be sealed to them because her deceased parents (Jess's brother and his wife) were already married in the temple. Evelyn already calls them Mommy and Daddy. It's pretty obvious they should do this, what could go wrong?
Well, Amee in Adelaide feels the same way. Tension rises when everyone takes a turn talking to her on the phone but Amee is unwavering in her decision that SHE is the rightful adoptive mother for this tragically orphaned niece. Jess and Tamra hope the upcoming wedding and family reunion will soften Amee's heart. It's all settled in the next chapter when Jess and Tamra are declared the winners, and this issue never comes up again.

Chapter 3
Brady, Claudia and Aunt Rhea are the only family representing Tamra's side while all of Jess' married sisters, their husbands and children flew or drove in for the temple wedding in Sydney. Emma keeps Tamra's folks company, along with all the children, who are waiting outside the temple when the happy couple exits.
There's a quick luncheon and photos, then everyone meets back at the Hamilton mansion for the reception with all the local friends and ward members attending. Later, the family gathers to watch Jess and Tamra open their wedding gifts which includes a "legacy gift," several pieces of handmade crocheted lace by great-grandmother Alexa passed down through the female descendants, all of Jess's married sisters have some of Alexa's work and now Tamra does too. Tamra is touched. She just KNEW something or someone was calling to her from beyond the veil the moment she set foot on this land. Now we know why all the books in this series have lace on their covers.

Chapter 4
Jess and Tamra honeymoon in Hawaii and have a wonderful time. Life is perfect. After all the recent trials Jess and Tamra have been through, nothing bad could ever happen to them again. Right?
Enter the main plot complication of this book. This is why Michael and Emily have had so many mysterious doctor appointments in town since before the wedding. This is why Michael was abruptly released from his calling as bishop today at church. Jess and Tamra sit them down, demanding to know what's going on?
Michael has cancer (like the reader didn't see this coming since Chapter 1)
Jess does not take this news well. Turning passive-aggressive, insisting he needs to be alone, Jess gets up and storms out of the room.

Chapter 5
Tamra takes this opportunity to open up and speak her heart to Michael and Emily, breaking down sobbing because (like the reader) we just can't believe our favorite fictional patriarch is going to DIE. Michael has been more of a father to her than any man she's ever known, including Brady. How are we supposed to go on without him? Michael takes his newest daughter in his arms and everyone cries together.
Tamra finds Jess, who just finished a good cry himself and suggests he call Sean O'Hara, our favorite family therapist, for grief counseling. Jess agrees it's a good idea but first, he returns to the front room to resume the conversation with his dad. Michael expresses his relief the family business and estate will be left in good hands.
Jess loses it again. Inheritance? Running the family business?! He's not ready for this!

Chapter 6
Jess calls Sean in Utah. Sean is more upset than Jess anticipated when he drops the bomb about Michael and cries for several minutes before he can speak. Knowing the psychologist is just as human makes Jess feel a little better. They discuss the stages of grief then Sean announces he and his wife are going to make arrangements for him to fly out immediately. After all the Hamiltons did for him, Michael is practically family. They decide to keep it a secret and surprise Michael and Emily.
After dinner, Jess helps Michael clean up the kitchen and load the dishwasher so they can talk more about accepting death. Michael admits he's still struggling with it, he wants to live, enjoy his posterity but is wise enough to put the final decision in God's hands.
Father and son embrace and cry together. Again.

Chapter 7
Two days later, Jess flies to Sydney to pick up Sean. Micheal and Emily are both surprised and delighted to see him. Sean stays a week, helping Michael around the ranch, going on picnics with the family and visiting. Michael started chemo and his hair is falling out which he good-naturedly jokes about to ease the tension. They have another good group discussion about accepting God's will and Sean takes his leave. While flying to Sydney in the plane, he confides to Jess he has a feeling he'll get to see Michael again. Alive.

Chapter 8
While Sean is the only non-family member who knows about Michael's terminal illness, nobody else in the family has been informed. Yet. Though he doesn't want to, Jess picks up the phone and starts making the necessary calls to his sisters in the states and Amee in Adelaide. Everyone takes the news well, except Amee who is in denial.
Jess and Tamra decide to organize a big family reunion/vacation, to cheer everyone up. The Hamilton family did something similar several years ago and it was very special-renting a bunch of rooms at an Austrailian beach resort and just hanging out. They will also have a family fast.
It's hard but everyone is coming to terms with the fact Michael will eventually be leaving them.

Chapter 9
Tamra announces to Jess she's pregnant, due date is January, which changes everything. If Michael can live another eight months or so, the circle of life can be completed. Since the death of his brother, Jess is now the only son of an only son. Please let it be a boy!
As begun in Volume 1, Jess pulls Tamra into the second floor hall, turns on the stereo and leads her in a slow dance to Creed's "With Arms Wide Open" (Nice choice, Jess!) to celebrate their future parenthood.
Michael attempts horseback riding but his condition gets the better of him. He collapses and is taken to the hospital, but he's okay. Everyone is worried and comes to visit him.

Chapter 10
Michael is released before the week is out. He and Emily visit his oncologist the following month and are happy to report to Jess and Tamra that, for the moment, he is cancer free!
Both Michael and Emily accompany Jess and Tamra for the ultrasound. It is indeed a boy. Everyone weeps and rejoices, much to the puzzlement of the technician, until they explain.
Next is the marvelous ten day vacation which every single family member made arrangements to attend. Many pictures and videos are on hand to capture every second. Tamra has a tape recorder so Michael can share all his best family history stories for his posterity. Everyone has come to terms with the fact their beloved husband and father will not be with them much longer. Everyone but Amee who continues to avoid the subject, finding an excuse to leave whenever it's brought up.
Family reunion/vacation over, all Jess' sisters and their families go their separate ways while our main characters: Michael, Emily, Jess and Tamra take the opportunity to spend the day at the Sydney temple, doing many sessions and sealings. Everyone is understandably exhausted arriving back home. Things settle back to their routine until one evening, Jess confronts his parents in the sitting room. He and Tamra were going over the family tree and couldn't help but notice there's no temple sealing date for Michael and Emily. Jess is a little disturbed by this. Michael and Emily tell them both to sit down. They've got a long story to tell...

Chapter 11
Readers of previous Anita Stansfield novels already know this story by heart. Just like the cancer announcement, Jess does NOT take this well, gets up and storms out. Tamra and Emily are already weepy. Tamra has the faith to accept this unusual marriage. Emily is glad this came up now, while Michael was still alive and could explain his point of view. Michael agrees, he needs to go talk to his son, now.
Jess is sitting in the carriage house where Michael finds him. After another good chat, they come up with the nice idea of a "bucket list" to focus on. All the fun, exciting, activities and experiences Michael always wanted to do but never found the time or opportunity. Have a friendly horse race on the family track and fly his father's old biplane. The plane is currently sitting in the hanger, dusty, in need of repairs, but still functional. Jess promises to help him.
The very next day, they each choose a horse and, with Tamra and Emily watching as well as videotaping the entire scene, cheer along with the stablehands, gathered to observe the friendly match.
From that day on, Michael and Jess begin spending more quality time together.
Taking further advantage of the remission, Michael and Emily leave for a long trip to Adelaide and Utah where they include Sean and his family in their visits. Jess and Tamra enjoy having the house to themselves.

Chapter 12
It's now October and Michael's cancer has returned. Hearing this, everyone living elsewhere makes plans to come for one last Christmas at the family home with Michael who is now bedridden, too weak to do anything but read and sleep. Emily snuggles next to him on the bed and they speculate on all the fascinating ancestors Michael will get to meet on the other side of the veil. Emily is especially envious he'll get to see Alexa, their guardian angel.
Jess leaves for a few days on business. While he's gone, Evelyn has a minor accident requiring a trip to the doctor for stitches. Michael takes a bad turn and has to spend the night at the hospital, returning with an oxygen tank and looking like death warmed over. Jess takes a fresh grip on his courage when he returns and, with Tamra holding his hand, enters the bedroom to greet his father. Michael takes one look at both of them and insists they need a date night. Marveling at such altruism, Jess and Tamra obey the order.

Chapter 13
Michael's doctor wants him to spend a few days in the hospital taking some tests. Emily goes with him. Two days later, in the middle of the night, Tamra's water breaks. Jess takes her to the hospital where they decide not to inform their parents they're here.
While Tamra endures labor pains, Jess reflects on the words Emily told him during one of their counseling sessions in the psych ward after he tried to take his own life (see Vol 1 "The Guardian") about the sacrifice she made to bring him into the world. He understands now. The baby is born without any complications. Now they can go inform Michael they're here and they have a surprise for them. The sight of this little bundle of joy makes their day.
Michael's doctor enters with the results of his tests. It's terminal, he lit up like a Christmas tree, the cancer is everywhere and there's nothing more they can do.  Everyone nods solemnly.
Micheal declares he wants to go home. All the arrangements are made to accommodate his last wishes. He is helped up the stairs to his room and bed for the last time. Everyone knows the end is near.
Calls are made, both to announce the new baby and to warn everyone Michael's time is almost at hand. All Jess' sisters will come, ASAP. Except Amee who refuses to make plane reservations as she just can't stand to see her father lying on his death bed. Jess talks to her, gets her to acknowledge her true feelings, then goes back upstairs to join his parents. They decide to put on a CD, to lighten the mood, Sting's Fields of Gold (not a bad choice, a good soundtrack for Michael and Emily's story which the author herself admitted helped inspire her writing, much like Muse for Stephanie Meyer's Twilight) Michael asks Jess to "Play it again."

Chapter 14
Tamra is still recovering in the hospital, so Jess drives back to visit her and the baby later that evening. He gets home very late. Next morning, feeling the premonition, he rushes to his parents' bedroom to find Michael asleep with his head in Emily's lap. Emily tells him to go get his sweet wife and new baby and bring them here. Home.
Arrangements have already been made by the Relief Society to bring in meals and take little Evelyn for the next few days to stay with various members. The Hamiltons have been such a rock solid family in their branch, later ward, over the years, everyone welcomes this opportunity to give back. The new bishopric stops by and gives everyone a priesthood blessing.
Within the week, all the sisters arrive. Amee throws herself on her father's chest. Michael holds and reassures her. Amee can now come to terms with her grief.
A few chapters ago, one of Michael's daughters (Allison) had an inspired idea that before he died, he should gather all his children around him, like Father Lehi in the Book of Mormon, and give everyone a father's blessing. Now is the time to do so. Tamra is included. Then Michael gives Emily a husband's blessing. All will take turns keeping vigil at their father's side until the end comes.
It is a good sendoff for such a strong, memorable, character in this fictional world.
Sean and his family come for the funeral. Jess is amazed at the peace and closure he feels. Everyone stays for the blessing of their new baby, named Jess Michael but, like his father and grandfather before him, will be known as Michael, to avoid confusion with his father.
Jess is overcome with emotion as he felt the presence of his father's hand on his shoulder while standing in the circle, holding and blessing his new son.
Emily and Tamra aren't surprised at all.

THE END

A Guiding Star

Book Series: Gables of Legacy   (Byrnehouse-Davies & Hamilton)  

Publishing Date: 2002

Author: Anita Stansfield

Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.

Category: LDS Contemporary Romance
Point of View: Third Person Limited- Tamra
Chapter Count: 9
Page Count: 149

No dedication

Prologue

This is nothing but a recap of Vol. 1 The Guardian-Michael and Emily Hamilton invited Tamra Banks to come live with them at their Australian home where she fell in love with their only son, Jess, who attempted suicide which Tamra prevented. Months passed. At first, Jess seemed to be recovering well but as he refused to take their relationship to the next level, Tamra finally told him she was leaving. Jess left instead. Tamra soon followed. Jess found himself and returned home a new man, ready to progress with his life and his relationship with Tamra. Discovering she'd left, he quickly tracked her down on the same plane about to take off for the States where he gave Tamra the shock of her life...

Chapter 1 

After twelve hours in the air, the plane is about to land at LAX airport, Los Angeles, CA where they will change planes for Minnesota. Tamra wakes up, remembers she has Jess back in her life and smiles as he kisses her. She can't wait to show him around her hometown of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Jess pays for two separate motel rooms and they check in to rest. We are reminded that Tamra is tall with long red hair. One of the things Jess loves about her is her conservative, wholesome appearance: except for a touch of lipstick, Tamra wears no makeup and is modest in her dress. While Jess is six feet tall, he doesn't mind when Tamra wears high heels. With his blue-green eyes, longish dark wavy hair, loaded with money and total commitment to her, Tamra knows she's found quite a catch.

Tamra admits she's apprehensive about contacting her mother. She's glad she has Jess to hold her hand. After breakfast, they decide to kill some time by shopping at Target for the winter clothes they forgot to pack. Jess throws in extra items like junk food and even a Lego set declaring he needs something to play with which is kinda cute.

Next, Jess insists they stop at a respectable jewelers so he can purchase an official engagement ring (Don't worry, he can afford it!) for Tamra. She's a little mad, at first, until she sees the perfect ring-tasteful, elegant and not the least bit flamboyant. Jess tells her an "eight cow wife" deserves an "eight cow ring." Because Tamra never took seminary in high school, having converted to the church later in life, the Johnny Lingo reference flies completely over her head but Jess is happy to explain.

At last, they are ready to enter the seedy bar owned by Tamra's mom. Because it is mid-afternoon, Tamra knows this is the best time to visit because there will be no customers. They go in and make themselves known. Tamra's mother is smoking, doing the daily crossword, while her older brother, Mel, is every bit the proverbial bartender, polishing shot glasses. 

When they realize this red-headed woman is their sister and daughter, Tamra's mom, Myrna, just smirks "Hope you didn't come here asking for money!" and takes another drag on her cigarette. Her brother is more open, offering them drinks on the house. Jess orders two ginger ales ignoring the sarcastic remark about Mormons and their non-alcoholic habits.

Chapter 2

Myrna, (what a name!) is cordial but it's obvious she was completely unprepared for her estranged daughter to walk back into her life like this and with a MAN to boot! She listens to Tamra's story of what she's been doing all these years and all she accomplished. Learning Jess is disgustingly rich, Myrna admits maybe her daughter hasn't been wasting her time all these years after all, much to Tamra's disgust as she points out there's a lot more to men than the pathetic examples her mother entertained: relationships are more than just superficial looks or money and perhaps it's time they were leaving.

No handshakes or hugs. Awkward.  Tamra and Jess exit the building wondering if this visit accomplished anything. They get dinner and return to their rooms for some much needed sleep. Tamra's big emotional meltdown over seeing her abusive mother can wait until tomorrow where Tamra cries for a long time in Jess' arms which lasts many pages as they re-hash the issues.

They order pizza and dance to music on Tamra's laptop. Jess tells her he spoke to his parents in Australia earlier today and took the liberty of setting their wedding date for after New Years at the Sydney temple. That way all his family and extended family can come out both for the holiday and their big event. Tamra agrees with Emily and Michael-it's a brilliant plan.

Chapter 3

After breakfast at a favorite local spot, Tamra and Jess get in their rental car so Tamra can take him on a special "lake and river" drive. Jess suggests while Tamra is here, she should keep going and try and contact her biological father.

At first, Tamra hates the idea. Myrna could never stop talking about what a horrible jerk her father was and since Tamra only saw him a grand total of two times growing up, she never had any choice but to believe all the awful things her mother said about him. Why open more old wounds?

They go to Walker Art Museum to think things over, then get take out to eat in their room, ending their day with a late swim in the motel's indoor pool (Um, I doubt they remembered to pack bathing suits. Did they go skinny dipping? *snort*).

Myrna is her usual pessimistic self again when they show up at the bar at the same time the following day where Myrna reluctantly gives them the information they need to locate that good-for-nothing Brady Banks. He's working in St. Paul and it turns out he's hardly a loser.

Tamra's father is now head foreman for a large, prestigious, construction company. At the site, someone summons Brady, a distinguished looking man with reddish hair, who is amazed to see his little Tamra Sue, all grown up and engaged to be married. He engulfs her in a big hug, shakes Jess' hand and insists they meet him at a nice restaurant for dinner so they can catch up.

There's a woman at the table when they arrive. Brady has been happily remarried nine years to Claudia who had children from a previous marriage. Once his divorce and custody rights were finalized, Brady spent several years drinking and letting his life go down the toilet until one day, he woke up and decided to make some major life changes. It was at an AA meeting he met Claudia and they just hit if off. Her teenage children accepted him and he stepped into his new role of being a husband and father to his new family.

The meal over, Brady asks if they'd like to follow them to meet his mother who is living in a care center. Tamra starts to cry. She has a grandmother! She has a family!

Chapter 4

At the care center, Grandma Banks' eyes light up when her son introduces her to Tamra and Jess. She suffered a stroke and can't move or speak but, sitting in her wheelchair, her eyes indicate she can understand everything they're saying to her. Tamra falls in love with her immediately.

Last, they follow Brady and Claudia's car back to their house where Tamra is moved seeing framed photographs of herself and Mel as young children prominently displayed on an end table by the sofa.

Her father makes a long speech about how he fought her mother for some kind of visitation rights since Myrna insisted on full custody. The legal fees and lawyer bills were what really drove him back to the bottle. He tried, he really did, but Myrna was so nasty he finally conceded and went crawling back to his mother's basement where he lived for several years, mooching off her, until she forced him to get up, get a life, a job and go to AA. He obeyed his mother and ended up with this fairy tale happy ending; a shiny, new life.
Which never included her. Tamra points out. Why?!
Jess takes Tamra's hand as she starts sobbing. Brady looks very uncomfortable as he learns his little Tamra Sue did not grow up in a loving, secure environment thanks to that witch he married. He'd hoped, by giving into Myrna's selfish custody battle, his ex-wife would change into a nice mom. He'd convinced himself his children's lives were better without him in it. He's heartbroken now to learn Tamra was so miserable growing up, not to mention the sexual abuse she suffered from all of Myrna's live-in boyfriends.
Tamra tells him not to think about it. It's in the past. She's ready to put it behind her. And they really must be going now.
Jess and Tamra talk for awhile back in the motel room before retiring to their own beds. They call her father the next morning, intending to apologize for the awkward conversation but Brady and Claudia graciously invite them to breakfast instead. (Today is Saturday.) They return to the house where Tamra apologizes for yesterday's emotion, she's feeling much better now and, once she put herself in Brady's shoes, has a better understanding of the decisions he made.
With Christmas just around the corner, the four adults come up with a lovely idea to make up for all the missed holidays-they will have their own Christmas celebration while Tamra and Jess are in town. Claudia loves to decorate early anyway. They agree Monday will be "Christmas Eve" and Tuesday will be Christmas. They'll trim the tree, bake cookies, exchange gifts and eat a big Christmas dinner. All burst into laughter in anticipation of their fun plans.

Chapter 5

The conversation continues: Jess and Tamra express their regret to Brady and Claudia why they can't come over early and spend the day with them because tomorrow is Sunday and they were planning on attending church. So far, religion hasn't been a main topic of conversation. Tamra's dad and stepmom are good people but organized religion just hasn't been a big part of their life. Jess and Tamra say goodbye promising to come over for Sunday lunch tomorrow afternoon.
Now, Jess and Tamra have some serious shopping to do and how lucky for them they just happen to be in the city that's home to the biggest shopping center in the country, The Mall of America. It's so big, it has an amusement park inside. Jess and Tamra browse many stores, ride the roller coaster and browse some more but Tamra is stumped as to what to buy her new family. After a few helpful suggestions from Jess, they purchase a koala bear (Australia, get it?) new journals, and stationary as a reminder that while email is nice, there's nothing like getting a real, old-fashioned snail mail letter. For Grandma, Tamra picks out a crystal heart to hang in a sunny window to brighten up a room, like in Pollyanna. They'll print off all the family history charts Tamra spent the last few years putting together on her laptop and get them professionally bound-one copy for Brady and Claudia, another for Grandma. They'll love it!
They've also been invited to an LDS family's home for dinner tonight, they supported Tamra on her mission and when she called to let them know she was in town, they insisted she come over.
After church the next day, Jess and Tamra spend a delightful evening helping the Banks decorate for Christmas. They all agree the star on top of the Christmas tree symbolizes a guiding light through a world of darkness. They bake lots of Christmas goodies (that braided bread with cherry filling sounds good!) and have a wonderful time visiting.
It occurs to Tamra the next day, "Christmas Eve," they need to go back to the mall to buy one last gift. She noticed yesterday, her father and Claudia don't have a nativity set and what better way to share their Christian beliefs in a non-offensive way by presenting them with such a gift? (Good thing they have the money as any decent set will cost at least $200.) They have it gift wrapped and, along with all the other gifts, now wrapped, drive directly to the Banks' residence.
Claudia invited her now grown children and their families over. Jess and Tamra don't mind this at all. Everyone gets along splendidly. After eating a big, delicious dinner, they play games and eat more of the goodies baked yesterday.
It is snowing on "Christmas morning" but this isn't Utah snow so Jess can't build a snowman. They drive over to the house for the gift exchange, instead, where Jess and Tamra receive matching Minnesota sweatshirts, a gift card to a nice restaurant in the city and tickets to the symphony tomorrow evening before they fly out.
Brady and Claudia love their gifts and are touched at the beautiful nativity. They are also impressed by the genealogy books. Tamra shows them lines going all the way back to the early 1400's and they explain their Mormon beliefs of temple work for the dead and eternal families.
They all visit Grandma in the care center. Her long, warm glance at Tamra makes it obvious she loves her two gifts. Everyone gets a little weepy.
The adults return to the house for more games and refreshments. All agree this has been a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together as a family. Brady and Claudia are also pleased to announce that, after talking it over, decided they can afford to take time off, using money they had set aside, on a trip to Australia for the wedding.

 Chapter 6

After tearful goodbyes, it is especially hard for Tamra to say farewell to Grandma as she suspects it's the last time she'll see her alive. Jess and Tamra return to their motel room where Tamra impulsively decides they need to make one last trip to the store before they leave town. They go back to the copy center, then to Target, wrap the gifts in Christmas paper and get in the car.
At Myrna's bar, mid-afternoon, they find Tamra's mom and Mel in their usual places. Mel is surprised and pleased to open a Kingdom Lego set complete with knights and a fire breathing dragon. Tamra remembered Mel always asking for Legos during Christmas when they were growing up but never getting any. Tamra always wanted an Easy Bake Oven! (Remember this, because it's important later.) Myrna is puzzled over the family history charts, offended Tamra would go out of her way to buy them gifts they don't really need. She stops chain smoking long enough to suggest, with cold indifference, they should go now.
Hurt, Tamra is understandably quiet during the drive back to the motel where she demands the keys, gets back in the car and drives off alone. She's just not in the mood to talk to Jess right now. Wandering around the city, Tamra finally ends up at the care center where Brady finds her. He tells his daughter happiness is always within her grasp, all she has to do is reach out and take it. Tamra presses her face to her father's shoulder and sobs.
Jess and Tamra fly out the next day, arriving in Salt Lake City because Tamra's never been here while Jess served his mission here, but first, they need to drive down to Provo where Jess has several boxes stored in the garage of his ex-girlfriend/fiancée's parents' house. They aren't here (mission) but Heather, the ex-girlfriend, is! She's happily married and visibly pregnant with short blonde hair and wearing lots of makeup and jewelry. She is pleased to meet Tamra while Jess is clearly uncomfortable, especially when Heather asks about the suicide attempt-she admits she called the hospital and got all the details by claiming to be one of his sisters. Relieved to know she wasn't the cause, leaves them to collect the boxes in the garage. Jess cannot get away fast enough.

Chapter 7

It's too early to visit any friends or family, since nobody's home-school/work-so Jess drives to the office of Sean O'Hara, family counselor and psychiatrist. It's really good to see him again (he's one of my favorite recurring characters). Sean is very happy to see Jess doing so much better, that his phone call therapy worked and that Jess is engaged to be married. They must all go out to dinner, soon.
Back in the car, Jess notices Tamra is troubled but she won't tell him what's really bothering her, not that she doesn't have a long list of things to be stressing out over already. Tamra admits she's struggling with unkind feelings toward her mother, repressed anger resurfacing, old wounds opened after their visits which did not lead to any reconciliation between them.
They stay with Allison in her Provo home. Her husband and children are excited to have company. Then, out of nowhere, a fever knocks Tamra out (a relapse of what she caught on her mission?) and she is bedridden for over a week, delirious, dreaming strange dreams of being back on the family ranch in Australia wearing Victorian clothing and chatting with ancestor Jess while Alexa rides around the race track.

Chapter 8

When Tamra wakes up, Jess informs her it's almost Thanksgiving and they will be spending it here at Allison's who absolutely insists they stay. Sean comes over to visit. Tamra doesn't appreciate being patronized until Jess explains he was concerned by Tamra's outbursts over her repressed feelings and thought she should talk to a professional. Sean tells Tamra his own story, very similar to hers and Jess' how he was able to forgive both himself and his father who kicked him out after he joined the church.
Tamra feels well enough a few days later to go outside and build a snowman with Jess who acts just like a little boy which makes her laugh. Allison takes them to her in-laws home where they have the opportunity to take a real sleigh ride pulled by real horses and jingle bells.
Next stop is Northern California where Jess' other sister, Alexa, meets them in Sacramento and drives them to her home where they stay and enjoy another nice visit with her husband and children. Micheal phones during this time especially to talk to Tamra. Jess told him of her struggles and he has some personal wisdom to share from his own grandfather, Michael Hamilton, who overcame horrible childhood abuse to become the great man everyone admired. He relates the advice the original Michael gave him-that dysfunctional cycles in families can end, if one learns the true meaning of forgiveness. Tamra knows she can rise above her own abuse too. She pens a quick letter to her mother, letting her know she's forgiven her for everything and mails it before they board the plane overseas.

Chapter 9

Back in Australia, Tamra never thought to ask Jess how they would get home from the airport and laughs in delight when Jess informs her he's been a certified pilot for years, he just never needed to use it until now. 
Tamra's car is still parked at Aunt Rhea's who will be happy to drive it to Queensland for the wedding next month. This is all taken care of over the phone. When they reach the station and the family mansion, Evelyn is very happy to see them both, so are Michael and Emily. The wedding plans come together very quickly. Tamra enjoys Christmas, especially the tradition of taking a horse drawn wagon filled with gifts over to the boys' home.
But the very best present Tamra receives arrives in the mail from her mother, Myrna. After double checking it for bomb threats, (kidding!) Tamra is moved to tears when she opens an Easy Bake Oven along with a note. Myrna regrets her behavior during their visit, was glad to get her letter of forgiveness and hopes they might be friends from now on.
It's another Festivus miracle! And another happy

THE END 

The Guardian

Book Series: Gables of Legacy   (Byrnehouse-Davies & Hamilton)  

Publishing Date: 2002

Author: Anita Stansfield

Publisher: Covenant Communications, Inc.

Category: LDS Contemporary Romance
Point of View: Third Person- Tamra and Jess
Chapter Count: 19
Page Count: 324

To my son, Jake…For the gift of laughter you’ve given me. For your strong spirit and your “warrior heart.” The world is within your reach, and it’s a far better place for having you in it.

Jake is her second oldest, after John.

Chapter 1

There's a lot of info-dumping in these first 21 pages, so bear with me!

Sister missionary, Tamra Banks, serving in the Philippines is sick! She's 22 years old. The last thing she remembers is some life-threatening, mosquito-born illness knocking her flat on her back, delirious with fever. She is in a crude hospital. Her long red hair is matted and tangled, her tall frame stuffed into a too small bed, which a strange woman is sitting next to, holding her hand.

Readers of past books by this author will be very pleased to see Emily Hamilton again. She is serving a mission here in this country with her husband, Michael. They are watching over Tamra while her companion has already recovered and is back to laboring in the field. Remember, LDS missionaries are not allowed to be alone at any time, so, Sister Banks is stuck listening to Emily who gives her a rundown (for the reader's benefit) of her family.

All seven of Emily's children are grown and all but two are married. We already know what happened to Allison.

Emily's youngest daughter, Emma, is living with Allison in Utah because Emma had a strong impression to go to Utah and finish high school there. 

Alexa and Amee are also married with kids and living in the States and Australia, respectively. Jess is a return missionary who served in Salt Lake, now attending BYU, but not living with any of his sisters. Like Emma, he is currently single. 

James served a mission to Spain, came home, got married and had a baby girl who was just six-months old when Michael and Emily left to serve their mission. 

Tamra points out Emily only named SIX children, what happened to number seven? Emily sadly admits Emma's twin brother, Tyson, died shortly after he was born (see Now & Forever) and she hasn't been able to have any more children since. Tamra comments on Sister Hamilton's accent. Emily smiles. She's American born but married an Australian so that's where they call home. At the very mention of Australia, Tamra chokes up but passes out before she can explain to Sister Hamilton the significance of the country.

Tamra wakes feeling better. Sister Hamilton is still there and now it's Tamra's turn for more plot exposition:

Tamra was born in Minneapolis to a single mom who gave birth to an older brother before she came along. Growing up, Tamra was exposed to many live-in boyfriends. Some married her mom and stuck around for a few years before divorcing so mom could move on; none of these relationships produced additional children.  Mom ran a seedy bar and she made Tamra and her brother help. Everyone smoke and drank and bed hopped all the time, not a very healthy environment for a growing girl. When Tamra joined the church in high school and declared she was going to serve a mission, her mom told her not to come back. So, when Tamra is released, she'll be homeless with no place to go.

Sister Hamilton immediately invites her to the Hamilton family station, a kind of horse ranch where they'll put her to work helping the family business with a legacy of breeding fine race horses for over one hundred years. They also run a home for wayward boys. There's plenty of room and, Emily assures Tamra, she wouldn't be the first "lost soul" they've taken in (who later became part of the family). She gives Tamra their phone number. Tamra thanks her and, before we know it, Tamra is all better and it's time to check out. She's assigned a new companion and says goodbye to this amazing senior couple.
Tamra just happens to have a favorite nonmember aunt from Minneapolis who married an Australian and moved away while she was in high school. This aunt assured Tamra she is always welcome to come live with her in Sydney after she finishes her Mormon mission.
Tamra decides she'll take Aunt Rhea up on her offer, first, before imposing on the Hamiltons. After she's released, that's exactly what Tamra does.
Tamra finds a job in Sydney, learns to navigate the roads and attends her local singles ward. She tries not to let the smoking, drinking and swearing in the home of her aunt and uncle bother her too much. They are good people who respect her values and make her feel welcome. Tamra reads her scriptures, says her prayers, attends the temple regularly and gets involved in family history work.
Apparently, singles wards in Sydney are overflowing with temple worthy, priesthood holding men desperate to marry and settle down, because Tamra gets an insane amount of dating opportunities! She wonders if something's wrong with her, because she feels absolutely nothing for any of these fine men constantly pestering her to go out with them.
Eighteen months later, Tamra is growing restless. She's seriously dating a young man named Jason in her ward but the idea of temple marriage to him leaves her cold. Her job as a receptionist pays the bills but it's not a career. She feels like it's time to move on. But where? Then she remembers Michael and Emily Hamilton and their open invitation to come move in with them any time.
Tamra picks up the phone and makes the call. An older woman, the head housekeeper, answers. Michael and Emily aren't here at the moment, off serving another mission, but she is delighted to extend the open invitation on Michael and Emily's behalf. They won't mind at all.
Her aunt is sad to see her go but gives her blessing (the uncle died a few pages ago, we hardly knew him, therefore we hardly missed him!). Jason is disappointed Tamra won't accept his marriage proposal but there's plenty of fish. Her job has no problem with her resignation.
Very soon, Tamra's small car is packed up and she's off to Queensland in the hot, summer heat knowing with all her heart and soul she's doing the right thing! The Hamilton legacy is beckoning...

Chapter 2

Sadie is the sweet, older woman Tamra talked to on the phone and she's the one who answers the door of the large, very old, mansion with all the gables. There's a two year old girl here as well, Evelyn. Tamra wonders who she belongs to.
While she was driving up the lane, marveling at the beauty of the grounds, a strong feeling hit her, like a Hamilton ancestor was calling to her from the other side of the veil, welcoming her. The sensation occurs again as she's shown to her room and left to settle in. Tamra can tell this house contains a lot of memories. If these walls could talk...
Downstairs, Tamra is chatting with Sadie in the kitchen when a strange man enters. He has dark, wavy hair, worn long to his collar, hazel-blue eyes and is so similar to Michael Hamilton with his handsome appearance that Tamra is struck dumb.
Sadie introduces the man as Jess who is NOT pleased to meet another "lost soul." In a gruff, accented voice, he asks if there's anything to eat, makes himself a sandwich and takes it back to his room.
Sadie explains Jess just arrived yesterday. Completely unexpected as he's supposed to be in Utah going to school. Something is very wrong but Jess won't tell her what happened.
At dinner, Jess, still moody and sullen joins them at the table and tells them what happened. His girlfriend back in Provo, the one everyone was expecting him to marry, dumped him for another temple marriage proposal. Sadie and Tamra express their sympathies.
That night, Tamra takes a long, relaxing bath, brushes out her hair, writes in her journal and reads from the Book of Mormon before retiring to bed, completely at peace with the world. She sighs thinking of Jess and how attractive he is. She falls asleep, dreaming of a woman in white, (a Hamilton family ancestor?) leading her through strange rooms and hallways with no explanation.
Next day, Tamra finds the family library and, most important, the old leather-bound journals belonging to one Alexandra Byrnehouse-Davies. Jess finds her engrossed in reading. Tamra isn't aware of him leaning over her shoulder until he startles her, his head close enough to hers he can smell her hair. Unnerved both at his presence and the unexpected compliment on her hair, Tamra excuses herself and nearly runs out of the room.
Jess can't sleep that night. Why is this woman here? He just got dumped by the love of his life and he's not in the mood to risk his heart again with the lovely Tamra Banks.

Chapter 3

Jess is more civil at the breakfast table. He needs someone to drive him into town today. Tamra remembers she needs to pick up some things too that she forgot to pack. Jess is welcome to ride with her.
At the pharmacy, Jess gets a box of sleeping pills (this is important later) while Tamra buys the personal items she needs. At a shoe store, Jess purchases a new pair of riding boots, (in his haste to leave, he left his favorite pair back in Provo). Seeing Tamra admiring a ladies pair, learning she's done some riding herself, he buys them for her. She's reluctant in her thanks and the ride home is mostly silent. Jess has a pretty big chip on his shoulder and Tamra can't figure out why.
They go their separate ways back at the house. Late in the afternoon, Tamra is helping Sadie by taking a pile of seasonal items downstairs to the old cellar for storage. Sadie is very grateful as she's getting too old to be taking those steep stairs where Tamra discovers more journals belonging to Alexa. With all the dust, these volumes have most likely never been read by anyone in the family.
Tamra opens the first book and begins reading the story of The Gable Faces East. She's intrigued but she doesn't have time for this right now. She puts the journal back, deciding she'll return and finish the story later.
Jess takes her out riding, using the same (romantic) surefire method for any first time female rider who may be a little nervous about riding a horse: mount behind her, hold her safe and secure around the waist with one hand, the reins with the other until she gets the hang of it. They ride to a spectacular overlook and enjoy each other's company very much.
Later that evening, Tamra broaches the subject of Evelyn's parents. Overhearing, Jess enters and angrily explains-Evelyn's parents aren't here because they were killed in a car accident and he was the driver. A truck attempting to pass another car was coming right towards them in the night, Jess swerved to get out of the way. The truck hit the passenger side, killing everyone in the car. Except Jess. Jess was in a coma for seventeen weeks and a long recovery. Evelyn's parents just happened to be his younger brother James and his wife along with his very best friend from childhood, Byron. All were in the car. All three died. Jess lived and he'll never understand why. Then his girlfriend/fiancée decided to call off their engagement. Not a huge surprise as both were already struggling in their commitment to each other. Jess has been spiraling down into depression ever since.
Tamra wants to cry at this sad story.

Chapter 4

Tamra reads more of Alexa's journals. The connection is fascinating as it quickly becomes obvious stubborn, moody men who can't commit to the woman they love without a lot of drama, runs in this family.
The next day is Saturday. Tamra finds the perfect place for a dance aerobic workout in the upstairs hall, a large room with a great stereo and sound system which Jess' sisters created when they lived here. Dressed in her becoming workout clothes, she inserts her favorite CD and is moving to the beat, unaware Jess has been watching her until he comes up behind her and initiates the Samba. He took ballroom dance at BYU and he's good! Tamra experiences a silent thrill at this common interest. When the dance is over, he excuses himself while it takes several minutes for Tamra to calm her beating heart.
Tamra also expressed an interest in seeing the boys' home. Jess gives her a tour but he's back to his moody, sullen behavior again. Tamra can't understand why he isn't more proud of what his family does for this community. Jess takes her up to the gabled attic where Tamra can feel the presence of something in this room. To her amazement, Jess doesn't scoff but agrees. There are certain places all over the estate, he says, where he has felt the strong presence of his ancestors. In fact, he'll show her his favorite spot right now, if she'd like.
The carriage house is very old with equally ancient vehicles in the back, behind the more modern day cars and off-road vehicles. Jess enjoys sitting in one of these old, open top carriages and just meditating. Tamra can feel it too. Someone from the other side is trying to tell her something. But what?

Chapter 5

Jess has one more "haunt" to show her. Readers of past books about this family will recognize the old attic room above the cottage accessible only by a separate outside staircase with a gable that faces East. Jess tells her nothing in this room has been disturbed since 1879. Tamra is nearly knocked over by it, there's so much history in this room! She can feel it!
Next day, Tamra attends church with Sadie and Evelyn. Jess stays home.
Over the next few days, Tamra can tell Jess is purposely avoiding her.
The next time they do meet is in the stables where Jess impulsively kisses her. Tamra is startled at the intense feelings erupting inside of her. She's never felt this way before, about anyone! Jess shocks her even more when he confesses he's falling in love with her.
Tamra wakes up real fast at that, making a short speech how Jess can't possibly know if he loves her when they've known each other such a short time. She's not about to be anybody's rebound relationship. Offended, Jess turns and walks out.
Later that evening, Tamra just happens to run into Jess in the kitchen where, once again, he's raiding the fridge for another late-night snack. Sadie enters and reminds Jess his parents are due home from their mission in two days. Jess snarks a reply, obviously not looking forward to explaining his presence here when he's supposed to be at BYU.
One hour later, Tamra feels a prompting to go to Jess, but his bedroom door is shut. He's probably asleep. They can talk tomorrow. The spirit repeats the prompting, Open the door! What Tamra finds is a person's worst nightmare-an open and empty box of sleeping pills and a passed out body. Jess didn't take the entire package of 35 only the last 25. He's still semi-conscious, mumbling for everyone to just go away and leave him alone.
Tamra dials the Australian version of 911, three zeros. They send an emergency helicopter out to take him away to the hospital where Jess gets his stomach pumped. Tamra drove as fast as she could to the hospital so she's sitting beside Jess, holding his hand, when he comes to. (She had to correct the doctor about not being his wife.) Jess groggily asks what happened. Tamra reminds him what he tried to do. In shame and remorse, Jess turns his head into the pillow. He begs Tamra to never leave him. Tamra cries with him.

Chapter 6

The female doctor talks to Jess, trying to ascertain his motive for suicide. Jess gives her the barest details: car accident killed his brother, he was the driver and only survivor, girlfriend left him, all his fault, can't face his parents. The doctor sympathizes. Tamra is there holding his hand. This visiting hour block is almost over, she doesn't want to leave but promises Jess she'll be here tomorrow.
Back at the house, Sadie weeps. She's so grateful Tamra has been here to take the lead in this family crisis because she is lost.
Next day, at the hospital, Jess has been admitted to the psychiatric ward. He is more fully alert when Tamra comes to visit (after being searched thoroughly for any dangerous objects-anything containing strings or wire, pointy things). Jess tells her he is more than ready to be discharged. He HATES it here. He wants to go home. (Sorry Jess, but when you attempt to take your own life, they put you on suicide watch for three days. And yes, it does suck because you're in a lock-down ward and have no freedom to leave. Any clothing with strings, under wire bras and shoes with laces are locked away for your protection and someone checks on you every fifteen minutes-even if you're in the shower.) He feels like he's been incarcerated. And he really hates these group therapy sessions everyone has to attend where they talk about their feelings (and drug addictions).
Tamra is disgusted at his attitude. Everyone here is trying to help him. If he won't accept that, she's leaving right now and he can just stay here and rot. She gets up and leaves, running into the doctor again who agrees Jess is not the easiest person to talk to but he'll be okay, as soon as he gets in touch with his feelings.
Tamra sits in her car and cries. She drives around for a while before deciding she needs to return, sit down with Jess and they need to define their relationship.
Jess, of course, doesn't want to have this conversation right now. Maybe he is crazy.

Chapter 7

Everyone is convinced Tamra was sent to their home exclusively to save Jess' life. Even Michael and Emily, home at last, after learning what happened, break down sobbing, then turn and throw their arms around Tamra in gratitude for obeying that prompting. Their mission to Africa went very well, by the way.
All three go visit Jess in the hospital where all three adamantly declare how much they love him, how much he means to them. Just stay alive, Jess!
Jess growls in response. He's a crazy person. He took 25 sleeping pills, therefore he is beyond help (25 pills is nothing, Jess. I know someone who took 180 pills and lived to tell about it!) and they should all just go away and leave him here to rot.
The doctor, who has been observing this conversation, encourages his family to keep telling Jess how important he is to them. Michael recounts Emily's miscarriage, shortly after he and his little brother were born. Jess realizes his problems are nothing compared to a woman giving birth. There's nothing more important in life than living for your posterity. Jess declares he's ready to face life again. He wants to go home.

Chapter 8

Tamra suffers guilt for the cruel and heartless words she said to Jess about not understanding love and rushing in too fast-which drove him to take pills. Michael and Emily reassure her she's very wrong. She didn't make him take those pills.
While they're talking, Jess is discharged and they all drive home together in the same car where Sadie is waiting in the kitchen with a late night feast so they can celebrate.
The next day, Tamra runs into Jess in the kitchen fixing himself a sandwich. They decide to share lunch outside on the veranda where they discuss their feeling of mutual love and attraction for each other. He is better able to explain how he knows, in his heart, that he loves her (and probably wants to spend the rest of his life with her).

Chapter 9

Returning from their walk after lunch, they find Michael entertaining Evelyn in a game of tag around the lawn giving Tamra and Emily a chance to talk, just the two of them. Jess goes inside.
Tamra gets teary when Emily just happens to mention the close connection she's often felt to great-great grandma Alexa. She seems to be everyone's guardian angel.
Jess is a bit nervous learning his sisters are flying in from all over, both to welcome their parents back from their mission and to see him. They don't know about the suicide attempt but Jess knows they're going to sit down as a family and talk about it. He helps make the calls because his sisters have been very worried about him, taking off like that without letting anyone know. All are very relieved to hear he's safe and sound at home.
After hanging up, Jess admits he's glad he stayed alive so he could see his favorite sisters again. He's actually looking forward to this visit.

Chapter 10

Emily and Tamra work in the kitchen together and chat some more. Car accidents seem to be this family's lot in life: Emily's first hubby Ryan was taken, Michael's spectacular accident from Now & Forever and now this latest one that drove poor Jess to attempt suicide. Once again, Emily is so grateful Tamra's here. Plus there's another adult to help ready the house for the two big gatherings-one for all their friends and ward family to welcome Michael and Emily home from their mission and the family reunion. The girls are also bringing the youngest grandkids not old enough to be in school but too young to be left home with their dads who work so they can be stay at home moms. Emily is especially looking forward to meeting Amee's newest grandbaby and Evelyn can't wait to play with her cousins. Tamra is happy to help prepare for all this company. Michael bribes Tamra with anything she wants if she can get Jess to come downstairs, talk to them, and be pleasant. Tamra accomplishes this, she seems to bring out his softer side. Michael makes her favorite dessert and performs some much needed maintenance on her car for which Tamra is grateful.

Chapter 11

From his upstairs bedroom window, Jess watches his Mom and Tamra walk arm in arm across the lawn and wonders if he'll ever be happy again. He knows he loves Tamra, she's the most incredible, amazing and the most beautiful woman he's ever met-those lips! All that long, curly red hair!
Jess takes Tamra on a picnic to that special spot by the stream which readers will remember from past Byrnehouse-Davies & Hamilton novels. Tamra declines a bite of Jess' Vegemite sandwich, (he really DOES come from a land down under) preferring the cold chicken and potato salad option Emily thoughtfully packed for her. She tells him her life story, which the reader already heard in chapter 1.

Chapter 12

But there's more to add to Tamra's story. All those live-in boyfriends and stepfathers abused her, sexually. Her mother took her in for some counseling (see, her mother wasn't all bad) and after she joined the church, her new knowledge of the gospel helped heal those wounds, but they're still there and she felt Jess should know.
He's glad because he went through a rebellious period as a teen: stopped going to church, got into drugs and alcohol, experimented with body piercings and got to second base with several girls. Byron was the one who helped him come back. Then they went and served missions before coming home. That's why losing him in the car accident was so hard.
Next day, Tamra waves while Jess and his parents drive off into town for his next counseling session. The errands they run are revealed just as she's trying to decide what she'll wear to the first party tomorrow evening. Jess comes knocking on her bedroom door holding a dress bag containing a very pretty, modest, black formal dress with a beaded bodice and fishtail skirt of gathered material. There's matching high heeled shoes too. Tamra loves it. Jess confesses Emily helped him pick everything out.
Next day all the sisters, including Emma, arrive and all are very happy to meet Tamra. Jess takes her hand and subtle, knowing looks pass between all but Tamra.

Chapter 13

Jess knocks on Tamra's bedroom door to pick her up for their "date" to the party already in full swing downstairs. Jess looks like a fashion model in his tux. He declares Tamra looks good enough to eat but when they start down the stairs, Tamra is dismayed to see they're a wee bit overdressed and stops. She needs a minute. Jess is a little offended and goes downstairs without her. Tamra returns to her room intending to change but Emily comes knocking just a few minutes later to explain Jess' nonconventional party behavior. This was a quirky game he and Byron started doing. A way to defy authority and silly social rules by going to the extreme. It was Byron's idea to help steer Jess away from breaking the Word of Wisdom and it worked. Jess was just trying to carry on the "tradition." Now that Tamra understands, she goes downstairs to find Jess and apologize. Being tricked into dressing up was something her mother often did to her, to better impress a new boyfriend or husband making her feel like a worthless ornament but she understands that's not what Jess was trying to do. They end up having a great time at the party.
Afterwards, Jess leads her to the upstairs hall for some private dancing, he even brought the CD. The rest of the family discovers them, joining in to create a special family memory. (Swaying to Ambrosia's "Biggest Part of Me" from 1980? I'd run away screaming.)
Breakfast is ruined the next morning when the subject of how Jess and Tamra became a "thing" is brought up because it includes the suicide attempt which the sisters didn't know about. Everyone adjourns immediately to the other room to discuss this. Tamra tells her side, obeying that prompting to open the door and everyone gets weepy. Jess gets upset trying to explain how helpless he felt when the dark clouds gathered in his mind and he feared he'd never be happy again unless he took pills to end it. All his sisters repeat how much they love him and need him, how important he is to their family. They want to help him work through this. Jess' pride goes up again and he leaves the room in anger and tears.
Tamra follows him.

Chapter 14

Jess and Tamra agree a trip into town is needed, he has another counseling session today anyway, she'll meet him outside. Tamra is on the receiving end, again, of the family's eternal gratitude for saving Jess' life as his sisters stop her in the main hall, thanking her profusely, before Tamra finally gets out the door to meet Jess.
Tamra drives, (Jess has sworn he's never getting behind the wheel of a car again, and he hasn't. He biked or took the bus in Provo and has plenty of drivers here to chauffeur him.) they grab a burger before the appointment. All Jess' sisters attend this session with him and much progress is made as each sister repeats: nobody blames him and they all love him. Jess is lucky to have such a strong, supportive family who never patronizes him or makes him feel like a lazy, rebellious teen who tried to run away from home by attempting suicide. Nobody has said a word about Jess needing to find a job, move out if he's so unhappy at home, live in his own place and be independent, yet always available whenever his parents or siblings need him to do something for them. There's never been any pressure for him to date more or get married either.
Jess is beginning to realize just how lucky he is to have such a family. Having a "special friend" like Tamra in his life doesn't hurt either!
His sisters' visit comes to an end and they leave. Michael and Emily will follow in a month or so to see the rest of the older grandchildren and the sons-in-law who couldn't make it.
Tamra worries about Jess who becomes more withdrawn and begins avoiding her and his parents. He won't talk to anyone.

Chapter 15

The Boys' Home receptionist is leaving to have a baby. Michael offers Tamra the job who fits in perfectly and loves it. Michael and Emily leave for their extended trip. Jess and Tamra continue to "date" but Tamra can tell Jess is just playacting. Something is very wrong but will Jess talk about it? No.
Tamra finishes reading all of Alexa's journals and starts the ones her posterity kept, including LeNay Parkins story-Michael's mother.
Jess continues to act like Jekyll and Hyde: fun, sweet and gentle with her one minute, harsh, angry and negative the next. It's almost a relief to Tamra when Michael and Emily return.
Jess, on the other hand, becomes even more reclusive and bipolar. Michael, Emily and Tamra have no idea what to do about him except fast, pray and hope he won't succumb to any more self-destructive impulses. Michael and Emily break into "Didn't We Love Him" from Saturday's Warrior.

Chapter 16

Once again, readers of past Anita Stansfield novels will recognize the connection to the story of "Beauty and the Beast." It's Evelyn's favorite movie (the 1991 Disney version) which Tamra is watching with her when Jess enters the room to snark how he's the Beast before sitting down and joining them.
It's almost over when Michael and Emily return from a mysterious appointment in town. When Emily learns what they're watching, she produces great, great grandpa Jess' poetry. Jess is impressed. He had no idea he was named after a writer. Emily reads aloud his most famous poem (which readers will recognize) about Beauty (Alexa) saving her Beast (Jess) through true love. Jess gets up and leaves the room.
In church the next day, Michael is sustained as the new bishop in their ward. Tamra finds Michael's best selling hardback books of fiction in the family library, reads them and loves them. Michael just shrugs, modestly. The following Sunday, Tamra is given a calling by her new bishop. Jess is waiting outside the church office. He's being extended a calling too, with the young men. Their temple recommends were also renewed (this is back in the day when recommends had to be renewed every year, now it's good for two).
Tamra is beginning to wonder why Jess hasn't talked about temple marriage, or even bothered proposing. She gets it out of him, the same answer the men in this family have been repeating to their current girlfriends for years, "We're not worthy!"
Just to shake things up, who should the author decide to bring in but Jason. Tamra answers the door when he comes knocking. Jess is holed up in his room, studying (a few chapters ago, when he was feeling more "up" Tamra encouraged him to enroll in online college courses to finish his degree) and misses the whole tour Tamra gives her ex of the house, boys home and the grounds. They run into Michael who insists her guest stay for dinner. Knowing Jess will be there, Tamra tells Jason she's met someone here. Whatever rekindling he was hoping for ain't happening today. Jason understands.

Chapter 17

At dinner, Jess, previously warned by Emily when she knocked on his bedroom door to announce dinner, hides any discomfort about his competition by showing extra affection towards Tamra, implying they are an engaged couple. Jason congratulates them on their intended marriage and takes his leave.
Tamra is furious at Jess, calls him a hypocrite and storms out of the room. Later, she finds him crying alone in his bedroom, sits next to him, and he sobs in her arms. He just can't get over this depression consuming him and commit to her. He doesn't think he'll ever marry. Who would want him anyway?
One month later, nothing's changed. Tamra knows Jess is near suicidal again when she finds him lying on the floor in the upstairs hall, in the dark, one arm thrown over his eyes, listening to Air Supply's "Makin Love Out Of Nothing At All" (1983) and not moving, unresponsive. (Well, no wonder he's depressed! Someone put in Hamilton: An American Musical, stat!)
This is such a disturbing scene Tamra has to choke back a sob before turning and RUNNING from the room to her own where she cries and cries for hours. (And who could blame her? He was listening to Air Supply! This boy is beyond help.)
Tamra wonders if she should just leave but Jess beats her to it. Everyone wakes up the next morning to find Jess is gone. He left a note saying it was better if he left because Tamra belongs here more than he does. Michael tells her his father pulled a similar stunt on his mom. Before they got engaged, he ran away to join the Air Force but eventually found his way home again. Jess will do the same.

Chapter 18

Tamra, Michael and Emily begin another fast in Jess' behalf. They call every temple they can think of and put his name on the prayer rolls. It's like Jess died and they all miss him.
Tamra knows what she has to do.
Michael and Emily are sad to see her go but they understand. Tamra doesn't even pack all her belongings, she'll find her aunt in Sydney first and go from there.
But Aunt Rhea decided to take a lengthy vacation with some friends, a neighbor has been getting her mail and keeping an eye on the house. Tamra checks into a motel and spends a good week living at the Sydney temple where she is inspired to go back to Minnesota. Maybe reconciling with her mom is next step she needs to take in her life, since marriage just isn't happening for her.
Meanwhile, Jess has also been living in a motel room, but, unlike Tamra, he doesn't go anywhere. Lying in a pile of fast food wrappers, it occurs to him maybe he should call an old family friend, Sean O'Hara. (Yay! We get to see Sean again! Except our favorite older brother and psychiatrist is living an ocean away and with only one more chapter to wrap this story up, I'm afraid we only have time for a phone call.)
Sean and Jess talk for a long time. Sean tells Jess what everyone else has been repeating to him the entire book, God loves him. The gospel is true. His sins are forgiven. He doesn't have to be depressed anymore. Jesus did all that for him. Jess has an epiphany. Sean is right! He can be happy! And just like that Jess is cured.
He hangs up, packs and is driving back home before you can say Touched by an Angel.

Chapter 19

But Tamra's not waiting with open arms when he bursts through the front door of his home. Luckily, Jess has a pilot's license and knows how to fly the family plane. Michael is happy to hand over the keys. Go get her, Romeo!
Jess tracks down Aunt Rhea, who just returned from her long trip just in time to tell him where Tamra is and where to find her in Minnesota (Tamra left one last message for her aunt on the answering machine with all the info). Jess takes a cab back to the airport and is on the next plane to the States.
Ironically, Tamra is on this same flight. Jess sees her but she doesn't see him. Jess decides to wait a few hours, working up the nerve to reveal himself.
Sitting in the center row, just a few seats over from Tamra who has a window seat, Jess notices Tamra is awake from her nap but is crying silently with her face toward the window. Disguising his voice, he calls across the aisle, tricking Tamra into revealing her deepest feelings about Jess Hamilton, the man she loves and wishes were sitting next to her this very minute. If this isn't starting to sound like the end to a very bad rom-com movie, you need to get out more.
Well, congratulations Tamra banks, you just won the boyfriend jackpot! Tamra goes into shock when the strange man reveals himself but recovers quickly when Jess moves over to sit beside her and take her in his arms. He then proceeds to embarrass the heck out of her some more by making her stand up with him so he can kneel in the aisle and propose. The entire plane bursts into applause.
Since neither of these financially well off people have cell phones, Jess swipes his credit card to make the expensive call from their seat on the airplane. Good news like this just can't wait. It's a miracle and a happy

THE END