Page 61 of Wish You Faith

“Good question. There’s no housing available. However, while she’s on the waiting list, she can participate in all of SSLR’s activities as an off-campus non-resident.”

“You drop her off in the morning and pick her up after work?”

Rosie nodded. “Best they can do for her now.”

“We’ll keep praying that God will provide.” Lorenzo’s faith was strong. In fact, all five brothers in the Flores family—including Pastor Diego Flores, their only ordained sibling—had strong faith, a testimony to their upbringing.

Someday, when Rosie had kids of her own, she would want to teach them God’s Word and God’s ways. She prayed that her future children would grow up like the Flores family, with their strong and enduring faith in the Lord.

“How long will you be out of the office?” Lorenzo asked.

“Half a day, no more. I’ll eat lunch with Mom at SSLR and leave her there for her afternoon activities. I’ll return maybe by one o’clock.”

“Sure. No problem.” Lorenzo paused, then asked, “Tabitha wants to know if you’re okay. I told her it’s none of her business, but she wanted me to ask you.”

“Am I okay with what?”

“Tabitha said you can call her anytime if you miss Evan.”

“Oh, I see. Please thank her for me. I might call her but not right away. I’ve been keeping busy focusing on the Christ of Christmas.”

“Good focus.” Lorenzo looked relieved that he had delivered the message from his wife. “Tabitha and I have never been apart for more than one day.”

“Good for you. I didn’t expect Evan to leave so soon, but life goes on.”

“You two talk on the phone?”

Rosie nodded. “On video, audio, text.”

“It’s like he’s still here.”

Rosie rolled her eyes. “I wish.”

“Is he coming back for Christmas?”

“Maybe not. I think his family has plans. I’ll see him on New Year’s Day.” Rosie smiled. “I have to get back to work. Thanks for covering for me tomorrow morning.”

“Sure thing.”

As Rosie walked back to the greenhouse, she held back tears.

I miss you so much, Evan.

CHAPTERTWELVE

The Honor Scholarship covered housing expenses in the entire SSLR property, including the old condominiums on Founders Row, but only up to the cost of a regular SSLR apartment. Rosie and her mom would pay for the balance of the monthly rental.

Yes, Founders Row.

Rosie pinched herself as she drove Mom to SSLR. She was shocked when Roger called them back the day before to tell them that Mom had been selected to rent a condominium on Founders Row.

It was rare and unusual, but it happened to Mom. They thanked God for the unexpected blessing and simply accepted it.

Mom wanted to see the condo right away, especially after finding out that it had three bedrooms. She could have two SSLR roommates, and thereby help to solve the housing crisis at the retirement community. However, Mom was particular with whom she wanted to room. She said that she would only welcome Marcella and Dottie as her fallback option—if Rosie decided not to stay with her.

That caught Rosie off guard. It was as though Mom had expected her to move on with her own life as soon as Mom had good care at SSLR.

Mom had a point. Rosie had a boyfriend now, and if she ended up marrying Evan, would they live with Mom? Probably not. Otherwise they could be Mom’s two roommates.

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