Page 41 of What Remains True
It’s not like that.But she didn’t say it out loud, because, well, it didn’t seem a hundred percent honest, if the way her insides were jiggling around was any indicator.
Merry Anna did her best to keep her eyes on the pastor, if for no other reason than to be certain Tara didn’t catch her gawking again. That painstakingly long mile-and-a-half ride home would be even more miserable if she had to listen to Tara speculate about her and Adam.
The pastor stepped up to the front and welcomed them, starting the morning with a few announcements: prayers for members sick or in the hospital, a reminder about the adult Bible study every Tuesday night, a mention of the potluck next Sunday after church, and last but not least, a call for help with the teen youth group gathering that night.
Adam’s hand shot into the air.
“Thank you, Adam,” the pastor said. “Anyone else?”
Merry Anna had no idea what came over her, but her hand lifted.
“Thank you,” came the pastor’s reply.
Adam spun around to see who would be helping him, and his face pulled into a wide look of surprise when their eyes met.
She wiggled her fingers in a wave.
What the heck do I know about teenagers and youth group?
She swallowed hard, hoping her face wasn’t turning red.
“If you two can meet me out front after the service, I cangive you some instructions. Great. Let’s begin our worship this morning with a word of prayer.”
All heads bowed.
Lord, help me be of service this evening. I have no idea why I volunteered. I’m not well equipped for this.
Had that been a nudge from God that had urged her hand into the air, or a self-serving move to spend more time with Adam? She wasn’t interested in him like that. That couldn’t be it. No, this was good for her, and honestly it was a little uncomfortable to be volunteering with Adam. They probably would have so much to keep them busy that they wouldn’t even have a minute to talk.
She pushed her thoughts aside and tried to focus on the sermon. The service ran long, and those fans came in handy. Finally, the pastor offered his blessings and guidance, the organist began playing, and everyone rose. Merry Anna and Tara were some of the first to leave since they were seated at the back.
Merry Anna stepped outside and then moved to the edge of the sidewalk.
Tara said, “I know you need to stay and talk to them about the youth group. You just take your time. I’m going to wait in the car.”
“I can walk back home, Tara.”
“No, I don’t mind waiting,” Tara insisted.
Then from over Merry Anna’s left shoulder, she heard, “I can give her a lift when we’re done.” It was Adam. “If I’d known I’d be back in time for church today, I could have given you both a ride.”
Tara touched his arm. “It’s good to see you.”
“Yes ma’am.” He tipped his hat back just a bit. “How’s it going over at the house?”
“Still in the demo and planning stages, but I’ve started buying some new fixtures that fit the period of the home. Don’t you worry. I’ll have you over once I make some good progress.”
“I’m counting on that.”
“Well, I guess I’m not needed. Looks like you’ll get home one way or another,” Tara said to Merry Anna with a hint of mischief in her eyes.
The pastor stepped next to them. “Thank you both for doing this. It’s great to have a couple of the younger adults step up. I think these teens can identify with you. It’ll be good for them and you.”
“You’re welcome,” Merry Anna said.
“Absolutely. Happy I’m in town to help out,” Adam said.
“You ever done anything like this before, Merry Anna?”
