Finding Hope Read Online Free Page A

Hope is going to be tickled,” Thomas said with an uncontrollable smile. “What’s it been, a year now?”
    “I think it’s been longer than a year, but who really knows anymore?” Gabe said dusting off his jacket.
    “So how’d you get to town and where are you staying?” Thomas asked trying to catch his breath.
    “We caught a ride on the Anderson’s wagon , and we’re hoping to stay with you guys,” Faith said seductively fluttering her big beautiful brown eyes.
    “Of course you can stay with us Faith, but what a re we gonna to do with this guy?” Thomas said in a horrible French accent while pointing to Gabe. “Come on upstairs. Hope is going to just explode when she sees you guys.”
    The front door to the tiny apartment crashed open. Struggling to contain his excitement Thomas said, “Hope, you will never believe what I found outside.”
    Hope, full of purpose and deep in focus, looked up from her pile of work. “No waaayyyyy!” Hope screamed as she jumped to her feet. “I can’t believe it!”
    “They’re here for the social , and they’re hoping to stay with us,” Thomas said with his chest pushed out, arms around both visitors, full of pride from what he had found.
    “Faith, you’re looking so good! Your hair is so cute. I love it!” Hope giggled as she grabbed Faith by the hands. “You look so healthy and amazing. Time has been sooo good to you. And Gabe, get over here and give me a hug. It’s been too long. We’ve missed you both more than you know.”
    “Look what else I have,” Thomas said to Hope with a voice cloaked in mystery.
    “Not only did I get fresh vegetables, but Mrs. Cleary totally hooked me up. Two fresh fish and,” Thomas paused for emphasis as he reached deep into his inside pocket. “Nectar of the gods,” he exclaimed as he slid the bottle out from his jacket. Upon seeing the bottle emerge from the canvas jacket, Hope, Gabe, and Faith gasped at their good fortune.
    Collecting the garments she had just repaired, Hope skipped to the doorway like a young schoolgirl. “I’ll be right back. I just want to drop these off with Helen before we settle in for dinner. I promised to have them done this afternoon, and you know what they say, 'work before pleasure'”, Hope shouted as she bounced out the door.
    As Hope turned the corner , out from behind the counter Missy jumped with fright. “What the heck Hope! You scared the pee out of me!” Missy complained clutching her chest. Missy was a student who used to go to the community college in Clearview. She’d been working with Helen and Cal since the time before the brown outs when the store was always busy. Missy had become like family to Helen and Cal. They depended on her, and she had never let them down.
    “I’m sorry Missy . Whach ya so freaked out about? It’s just me,” Hope asked exaggerating her disbelief with wide crazy eyes. “Can you give these to Helen for me? I have one more blouse that I haven’t gotten to yet, but I’ll finish it first thing in the morning. I hope that’s OK,” Hope said feeling a bit embarrassed about not finishing all the items.
    Missy smiled and said, “I’m sure it’s fine. Helen saw Tommy and his friends race upstairs earlier. She understands.”
    “Are we still on for tomorrow night? Julian is feeling about the same, but he’s not contagious or anything. We could really use a night out,” Hope said anticipating Missy reply.
    “Of course we’re on. I wouldn’t want to stand in the way of a famous rock star,” Missy said poking fun at Hope. “All joking aside, I wish I could be there to hear you play. Your fingers are amazing on the strings of that guitar.”
    “Thanks, Missy. That means a lot to me. We’re leaving at six-thirty and should be home around elev en. Sound good?” Hope confirmed gently nodding her head.
    “I’ll be there n o matter what. No need to worry. I’ll take great care of Julian. Everything will be fine,” Missy said encouragingly.
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