Introduction

With guitar case in hand and only one thing on her
mind, Grace Trey shoved open the door that led to
the church parking lot and, in her hurry, nearly barreled
over the boy just coming in.

“Hey, Noah.” Grace steadied the nine-year-old to his feet.
“Sorry, bud, I didn’t even see you there. What’s up?”
“Hey, Miss Grace,” he said shyly.
Her frown was replaced with a smile. “Where’s my hug?”
she asked as she rested her guitar case against her leg and
opened up her arms.

Noah responded with a bear hug that melted away the
last fragments of her foul mood. “You practicing?” she
asked with the directness of a dedicated instructor.
“Yeah.” He nodded eagerly. “Every day.”
“Good, the recital’s coming fast.”
“You gonna be there?” he asked with hopeful eyes.
“Of course. You’re my star student.” She patted him on
the shoulder.
Noah grinned and promised to keep practicing. And
Grace picked up her guitar, watching as he dashed off to
join his friends. She knew the kids were headed for the
playground behind the church.