Sophie found the Frisbee in her hands, but suddenly there was no one there to catch it. They had all spread out, and Sophie knew she could never throw it far enough. And to top it off, Mr. Riley was headed her way. Not thinking, Sophie turned and ran. The kids followed, so no one was within earshot when Ben turned to Kay and said, "I don't think the Frisbee's being chased any longer."
And indeed it wasn't. Alec was moving as fast as his long legs could carry him, and he would have pursued her even if Sophie had thrown the Frisbee down.
Knowing he was almost on her, Sophie swiftly turned and began to plead. The hand with the Frisbee was behind her, but the other was palm out toward her pursuer, while she tried to reason with him.
"I do not have it," she lied. "It dropped on beach."
Alec wasn't listening. To Sophie's amazement, he captured her wrist and then he began backing toward the water.
"You look a little hot, Sophie."
"No, I am not."
"Come along, Sophie," Alec coaxed. "Come into the water."
"I cannot," she tried to reason and regain her wrist at the same time. "I am made of sugar. I will melt."
This brought laughter from Alec, but he did not let go.
"I will admit that you're sweet, but I don't think you'll melt."
"Rita, Tory, Craig! Help me," she yelled up the beach.
Alec only laughed again and continued to pull her ever closer to the tide.
Craig was the first to reach her, but he only pushed from the back, and she went toward the water even faster. From there the girls attacked Craig, and within just a few moments all five of them were in the ocean.
261
Sophie came up laughing and sputtering, and when she saw Craig close by, she bonged him in the head with the Frisbee that was still tightly clutched in her hand.
"We win," she told Alec when she got the hair from her face. "I still have Frisbee, so we win."
Her comment was a mistake. A wrestling match now ensued in the water. Before Rita got the Frisbee and charged back up the beach, Sophie thought she would drown.
"Are you all right?" Alec asked as his arm supported her until her feet could touch the sandy shore.
"Yes," Sophie gasped. "Craig took me by surprise."
The kids were long gone, so the adults followed more slowly. Alec was in his swimsuit and Sophie's was under her shorts and top. Not having planned to get wet, she was a little bit in shock. They walked very slowly, Alec thinking about Rita's words at the beginning of the week, and Sophie thinking about how swiftly the time had gone.
"Do we go home soon?"
"Yes. Sunday, right after the service."
"I love Easter," Sophie reminisced. "I would go with my grandmother to church and then have ham dinner. Was best of the whole year. Some Easters we would talk whole day of Christ's sacrifice. Is all so wonderful and amazing." Her voice was a mixture of wonder and reverence.
Alec was silent. He was spending more time in the Word than he had for years, but he now had to ask himself:When was the last time I was awed and amazed over what my Savior did for me?It was a sobering thought.
"Have I said wrong thing?"
"No, I was just thinking of Easter. We'll go to the Good Friday services tomorrow. It's always a special time."
"The whole week has been special," Sophie now said. "Thank you for bring me, Mr. Riley."
"Bringing me," he put in, "and you're welcome."
"Yes, this is word. Bringing me. Thank you for this, too. I want get it clear."
"You do very well, Sophie. You just miss some of your prepositions."
"My prepositions. What is this?"
"Well, like when you said, 'I want get it clear.' It should be 'I wanttoget it clear."
"I wanttoget it clear."
262
"That's right."
Sophie nodded seriously. Alec didn't know anyone who was so thirsty for knowledge. He assumed she had spent her whole life with her head in books. Maybe this was why she didn't really see herself as a woman.
The temptation to reach out and take Sophie's hand nearly got the best of Alec. In fact, he was going to do it, but Rita called from the house. Alec listened to what she said and then waved in acknowledgment. Sophie was now saying something, too, but Alec wasn't really listening. He was doing what he often did these days: praying for patience.
263
On Saturday night, Sophie and the Rileys gatheredaround the TV. There was a special program coming on, and Tory had made plans all day for them to watch it. Her disappointment was keen when the show was interrupted for a special news report on the changes in Europe. Pictures of Mikhail Gorbachev flashed on the screen, and a moment later Sophie commented softly, "He is kind to his staff."
"His what?" Tory wished to know.
"His staff. The people who work for him."
"How do you know that?" Kay inquired.
"I have worked with him," Sophie said simply. "He was very nice. I do not agree with all of his politics, but he is kind man."
Sophie's eyes were on the TV, but everyone else's were on Sophie. It took a moment for her to notice, and even then she didn't understand. Her eyes traveled to all six of them before looking to her boss with a questioning expression.
"We watch these newscasts," he told her softly, "without thinking of these people as being real. They're all so far removed from us, but you've been there. You've touched their lives, and now you come here and touch ours. Sometimes, Sophie," he finished just as quietly, "we're overwhelmed."
Sophie looked at their faces again and saw that it was true. They were all a little amazed by her. She wished she had the words to explain that there was no need; she was a simple woman at heart. Right now all she could do was nod. Tory's program returned just after that, and nothing more was said on the subject. Sophie, however, did not watch the show. Her eyes kept straying repeatedly to the man for whom she worked.
***
Sophie had worked at Tony's Restaurant during the prior Easter Sunday. This year, however, she was dressed in her best and headed to church with a family that had become like her
264
own. For this reason her mind was very centered on Mary and Joseph and what they must have been feeling as they witnessed or heard about the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. She looked at the Riley children. They were certainly not perfect, nor were they her children, but their presence put the sacrifice of God's Son in a new light. She was certain they were all aware of the looks she was giving them, but no one made comment.
How would I feel, Lord, if it had been my son to die? What would my heart have felt? Would I be able to go on? I wonder ...The sermon began at that point, and Sophie thought it was marvelous. Tears ran down her face as the Scriptures were read, telling the story of the sacrifice of her Lord. Knowing that Tory's eyes were on her, Sophie nearly broke down completely when she felt the younger girl's small fingers grasp her own. She missed the profound effect she was having on Rita, who was suddenly very shaken over Sophie's tears.
When was the last time,Rita now prayed,that I was so moved over what You've done for me, Lord? Sophie's heart is so tender, and I just take You for granted. Help me to know the wonder and beauty of Your sacrifice and to remember all You gave up for me.
She prayed in such a way for quite some time, and God moved in her heart. Before the service was over, Rita was in tears as well. She had lost her mother, but Vanessa's death had been swift. God had been forced to watch His Son die in agony, and all for her sins.
Alec was at Rita's side and put his arm around her. He did not break down, but it was close. He missed Vanessa terribly right then, but much like Rita, he thanked God that her death had been swift. She could have suffered months or years as a result of serious injuries, cancer, or any number of physical ailments. Truly, God had been merciful. And because of God's ultimate sacrifice, Alec knew where his wife was.
A swift glance at Craig's face made Alec wonder if he might not be thinking
along the same lines. He looked pale and teary, and when Alec laid a gentle hand on his shoulder, his son tossed him a grateful smile and held his tears.
When the service ended, both Kay and Ben moved off to socialize, but Sophie and the Rileys remained seated. Sophie felt like she could sleep for hours. With the way Tory's head lay against her father's arm, it looked as if she felt the same way.
"We had best be on our way," Alec commented, but no one moved.
265
"Do we really have to head back today?" Tory wanted to know.
"Yes. You're not going to get to school until Wednesday as it is."
"I'm ready to go back," Rita commented.
"You are?" Craig sounded shocked.
"Yeah. I mean, I've had a great time, but I like being home."
Craig felt the same way since he'd become so close to Sophie and nodded in agreement.
"Well," Alec finally stood, "your grandmother said she would have Easter dinner ready when we got there, so let's move."
The Rileys filed out then, but Sophie hung back. The church was nearly empty. She moved into the center aisle and turned to the front. It was a lovely church, and the message as well as the songs had been God-honoring. Easter was nearly over in Czechoslovakia, but her grandmother would have attended services as well. Sophie's eyes finally rested on the simple wooden cross that graced the communion table.
We are joined in You, Father. Thank You for this. Thank You for everything.
With that Sophie turned and moved up the aisle. She didn't know if she would ever come to this place again, but this was one Easter she would never forget. They probably didn't know it, but the Rileys could be thanked for this. It was going to be a long ride home, but Sophie determined to be thankful for each of them every mile of the way.
***
It was wonderful to arrive home. Sophie had lunch with Gladys right after they arrived, and both were able to share their trips. Gladys was thrilled with the gift Sophie had brought her and had one for Sophie since she'd been in California while the younger woman was in Florida.
Sophie held the California T-shirt up to herself and asked, "Did you see a movie star, Gladys?"
"Heavens, no," Gladys said on a laugh. "I was in San Francisco, and most of the stars are in Hollywood."
"I thought they were all over." Sophie looked so let down that Gladys laughed again.
"No, that's just a rumor. And with as little television as I watch, I probably wouldn't know one, anyhow."
Sophie had to agree. She herself could probably run headlong into the most famous star in pictures and not know who he was.
266
As usual, time got away from the women. They had been talking for what felt like minutes and was in reality hours.
"I must go home!" Sophie exclaimed when she saw that it was 3:30. "The children will be come."
"They don't have a key?" Gladys asked in some surprise, and Sophie paused.
"I am be silly," she now laughed at herself. "Of course they have key. I do not need to be in panic, but I will go."
Gladys saw Sophie to the door and they agreed to get together again very soon. Sophie walked home enjoying the warm weather along with everything in bloom. The air was fragrant with new life, and Sophie could not make herself rush. However, when she arrived in the Rileys' kitchen, she found Tory and Rita waiting for her. Rita looked slightly concerned, but Tory looked pale with fright.
"Tory," Sophie's voice was all concern, "what is it?"
"You weren't here," she blurted. "I thought you were gone."
"I was at Gladys' house, Tory. I am sorry to make you scared."
But Tory couldn't handle the relief upon seeing her. She burst into tears and bolted for the stairs. Sophie looked helplessly at Rita.
"I tried to tell her that you wouldn't do that-you know, leave without telling us. But she wouldn't listen."
"I will go speak with her, Rita. I am sorry."
"You don't need to be, Sophie," Rita said almost fiercely.
Sophie wasn't sure what she meant by this, so she just moved silently to the stairs. Craig was working on the computer, so Sophie greeted him as she passed, but then moved right along to Tory's room. She knocked and said, "Tory, may I come in?"
"Yeah" came a muffled reply, and Sophie entered quietly. Tory was sitting on the side of the bed facing away from Sophie, who sat down very gently on the other side. She heard many sniffs and even a muffled sob, but she did not reach to touch her.
"What has happened, my Tory?"
The tenderness was too much for the little girl. Tory buried her face in her hands and sobbed. Sophie joined her on the other side of the bed, and Tory sobbed against her.
"It is all right, Tory. Do not cry more."
"I thought you were gone," she sobbed. "I thought you left forever!"
"No, no, I am just at Gladys'. You know, Mrs. Nickelberry."
"Rita was so mad at me."
267
"Is all right now, Tory."
Sophie didn't really know what was going on, but for now she only wanted Tory to calm down. She did so slowly, and when she finally raised her head, she gave Sophie a weak smile.
"How was school today?" Sophie asked, hoping to divert more tears.
"It was all right. I'm doing a report for history. Do you know what country?"
"America?"
"Nope."
"Canada?"
"Nope. Czechoslovakia."
"Czechoslovakia! This is wonderful," Sophie said excitedly.
"I've already got some good pictures. Crystal's mom always gets these cool calendars that have pictures from all over the world, and she gave me these two." Tory handed her the huge glossy photos.
"Oh!" Sophie exclaimed in delight. "This is Krumau. I have been there many times." Sophie turned up the second picture and became utterly still, biting her lip to quell her emotions.
"What is it, Sophie?" Tory asked, but Sophie did not immediately answer.
"This is my home," she breathed at last, sounding in a daze. "This is Prague."
"This is where you lived?"
"Yes. Is it not beautiful city?"
Tory looked at the print for a moment and then at Sophie's profile.
"Do you miss it?" the little girl asked as she carefully watched Sophie's face.
"Oh, yes, Tory, but mostly I miss my grandmother. I have tried to get her to come, but she will not. She says is too far to America."
"Are you going back there?" Tory actually managed to keep the fear from her voice.
"No, Tory. Someday maybe, but not now."
Sophie was still studying the beautiful picture of Prague, and so missed Tory's look of utter relief.
***
"Don't go, Tory," Rita told her sister when she was ready to leave the table. "I want you to tell Dad what happened today."
268
Tory scowled at her, but Rita only frowned back.
"You're not my boss, Rita."
"I don't care. You're still going to tell Dad or I will."
"What's going on?" Alec had heard enough.
Tory remained silently stubborn, her arms crossed over her chest. Rita sighed and began.
"Sophie wasn't here when we got home today, and Tory threw a fit."
"I did not!"
"Yes, she did, Dad. I mean, she totally lost it and made Sophie feel terrible.I tried to talk to her, Dad, but she wouldn't listen. I mean, Sophie does have her own life, and Tory doesn't need to go ballistic if Sophie doesn't check in and tell us her every move."
Craig had gone to a friend's house and Sophie had needed the van to do some shopping, so Alec knew why Rita felt free to speak.
"Is that the way it was, Tory?"
Tory frowned at Rita. "I just thought she was gone."
"I hope that never happens," Rita cut back in, "but Sophie is entitled to her own life."
"All right, Rita," Alec spoke quietly. "I understand what you've said."
Rita knew that was
her cue to exit and did so without comment. She would have started on the dishes, but with her father and sister in the kitchen, she went to see what was on TV.
"You don't think you overreacted, Tory?" Alec asked as soon as they were alone.
"Not like Rita said."
"All right. Suppose you tell me what you think happened."
Tory didn't answer or even look at her father, and Alec knew Rita's account had been correct.
"Come here, Tory."
Alec waited until Tory was in his lap before he continued.
"Rita is right about Sophie having her own life. I don't want her to go away any more than you do, but we can't expect her to be here constantly. You know, she works very hard and deserves some time off.
"I know the thought of her going away upsets you, but we have to trust God for this. If Sophie should ever leave, then God would send someone else to care for us."
"But I don't want anyone else."
269
Idon't either,Alec said to himself, but where Sophie was concerned, he had only recently surrendered his whole heart to God. Now he must help his daughter do the same.
"God would understand our tears, Tory, if Sophie left and we cried, just like He did with Mom. But we must believe that He will never leave us and thatHe'sthe One who's really important."
"I still don't want her to go."
"Well, it doesn't look like she is. I mean, we don't really need to worry about that right now. But you shouldn't get so upset if she isn't here."
"All right."
"And if the time ever comes that Sophie doesn't work here anymore, then you've got to trust God that He'll still care for us."
Tory looked devastated by the thought, and Alec sighed. How could he make her see that if it wasn't for God they would never make it at all? Was she too young, or just too stubborn? Or was this about being hurt all over again when a person you love very much goes out of your life forever?
They talked for about ten more minutes, and Alec knew from Tory's words that she would need time. He would continue to speak with her about this subject in the days and weeks to come, but it looked like she needed his prayers more than anything else.
270