CHAPTER 22
WOODFISH LAKE
SEPTEMBER 3
Brad’s parents walk out onto the deck. They see their son operating the grill in Rick’s back yard. The fish sizzle in the pan.
Brenda watches in awe. It’s unbelievable that a few months ago she was afraid of him, and now she feels like they’re on the same team. She watches her son closely. He doesn’t look like an outcast or a monster anymore. He looks like he belongs in this moment, with their family, and she sees that his second chance is beginning for him.
Brad carries a plate of fish to the table and sits down. She’s still hesitant to accept that it’s really him. Because if she fully buys into this new person, and he reverts to being the old version, she doesn’t know if she can take the pain all over again. She looks Brad in his eyes. “Did you guys catch these fish?”
Brad stares at her with steady eyes. “Yes, it was a good day. We hit our limit and came in early.” Brad grabs five pieces of fish and eats them like a growing teenager.
Steve looks at his son. He’s still afraid to trust him too after all the fighting they’ve been through. “Are you ready for high school when it starts tomorrow?”
Brad nods, “I think so. I’ll survive it. Just getting through it is all I have to worry about right now.”
Brenda watches everyone, trying to imagine what their brains are thinking. She prayed for this moment for years; and now that it’s here, she’s afraid to trust that it’s real.
She eats the fish and looks at Rick, “You faced similar challenges when you got out of prison. What advice would you give Brad?”
Rick sets down his fork. He stares Brad in his eyes. “You’re a smart kid. But never forget you’re going to need more help than just me. There’s a whole world of people out there, with all types of colorful stories, and they’re all going to want to help you once they get to know the real you. People of character, help people build their character. Never forget that. Friendships will be 90% of your opportunities in this world. Start looking for new, good friends. Let them be your warriors and invisible hands helping your through life. Let them lead you to wherever you’re supposed to go.”
Rick leans back in his chair and soaks in the colors of the lake.
“Don’t be afraid. Be brave. Take huge leaps of faith. This is America − the land of opportunity. Nothing is holding you back anymore. You are free now. You have the power. Go and find yourself, your purpose in life, and live the life you dream of living. That is how you can live the greatest life you could ever imagine.”
THE END
A Letter from the Author
Dear Reader, Thank you for taking the time to read Spark. Without you, the characters in the story would have never come to life. I look forward to writing more books in the future, and ultimately become a full-time writer. If you are looking to help me, and this story, one way is by going on Amazon.com and leaving an amazingly awesome review of this book. Another way to help is by spreading the word about this book. I am forever grateful for you.
Never give up on your dreams. You are special and powerful with a valuable purpose in life. Your dreams are possible. Together, we can make this world a spectacular place. I look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you and God bless,
Billy B