James-Chapter 3 part one

3

James looked at Jamie’s hair and figured it was neat. He’d taken Hannah’s advice and brushed it into a ponytail. Jamie seemed not to mind not having any fancy style so James didn’t bother asking what she thought. He’d forgotten to wake her up earlier so for the first time, Jamie had to take money to eat lunch at school instead of her lunch. James managed to make it to the office on time and the usual crowd greeted him. He made sure to tell Courtney how much he appreciated her. They had a board meeting that day and he knew Courtney might have a hard time keeping up. He didn’t want her to be too hard on herself. As requested, Paul Winters was at the board meeting. When James walked in, everyone was seated and all talking ceased. He took his seat at the head of the table and Courtney sat where Hannah usually sat, at the head of the other secretary’s. James leaned back comfortably in his seat then took a small breath. He cleared his throat lightly then looked at his board and smiled. “Good morning.” Everyone chuckled and any tension there left the room as his greeting was returned. “Uh, welcome Linda Harris.” Everyone clapped and Linda smiled. “On that note, Linda, why don’t you say a few words? Just let everyone know a little about you and then what you’ll be doing here.”
“Oh, OK.” Linda said, as she stood then walked to the front of the room. James smiled at Paul then looked at Linda. “Um, as Mr. Murdock said, my name is Linda Harris. I’m the new Company Inspection Manager. Basically, I’m a background checker.” Everyone chuckled. “Um, I’m a very approachable person, if you all need anything, I’m here. If there’s ever any concerns, just let me know, that’s what I’m here for. My job is to catch frauds at the beginning of the deal so it doesn’t come back to haunt us. I gather the majority of my information from Wanda Phillips so it is imperative that anything you submit to her be correct. Um, if you need anything, my office is on the back wall by Mr. Wright’s. Thank you.” Everyone clapped again and James nodded. “Good. Thanks Linda and welcome again.”
“Thank you.” James turned a little in his chair. “I had a very interesting meeting with Mikal the other day. It’s come to my attention that there seems to be a little confusion on some things. I just wanna clear somethin’ up with you all, as my leaders. If there ever seems to be any… doubt over who’s in charge as it relates to your particular field, please let me know. I’ve placed you all in authority for a reason and if you have an employee that’s having trouble respecting that authority, submit their name to me and we’ll have a private meeting about it in a soundproof room.” Everyone chuckled. “No, all joking aside though. I don’t want anyone feeling overwhelmed because of one fool that don’t know his or her place. So don’t hold that kind of stuff in and don’t talk to each other about it, bring it straight to me, alright?” Everyone nodded. “Good. Um…” James looked down at his notes then looked up and smiled widely. “Oh yes! I thought you all would find this very interesting. We haven’t had the Stat. Department sit in on our meetings before but I think we should start. I had to take A.P. Statistics in high school and I hated it, which is why I hired someone to do this job for me.” Everyone laughed. “Here today we have Paul Winters who’s done an awesome job fixing up this information so, Paul, the floor’s yours.”
“Thank you, Mr. Murdock.” James nodded and sat back as Paul stood. He signaled someone to dim the lights and he set up his computer for a slide show. He did a great job presenting the information and James noticed that everyone looked impressed. When Paul finished, James smiled. “Thank you, Paul. That was very informative. Now, one thing I got out of that, and I don’t know if anyone else did but, although our companies are making more, we’re not ahead by that much. Mikal, I know you’re workin’ on that new procedure that’ll pull more companies in but there’s two parts to your job. You have the Company Reps and then you have the Customer Reps. I separated the two because I wanted there to be a thick line between them. I think we can separate them more than what we have. The company reps represent us, OK? The customer reps represent, of course, our babies; the businesses we take in. Now, I have a great respect for those guys because they’re paid to take complaints all day.” Everyone laughed. “Now Mikal and Wanda for that matter, here’s what I’m thinkin’. I know they have a tiring job but I’m about to increase their workload. Tell your folks to hang on.” Everyone laughed. “I want them to not just take the complaints but when they go home, think about how they can change them and submit a list to you at the end of the week. At the end of the month, I want a detailed report from you telling me what you think are the most common complaints and ideas on how to change them. Does that make sense?”
“Yes sir.”
“Yes sir.” Mikal and Wanda both said and James noticed they were both taking notes on what he’d said. He smiled. “That makes all of our jobs a little bigger but I think we’ll really reap the benefit from it.”
“Yes sir.” Mikal said as he finished off his notes then looked back at James. James cleared his throat and looked down at his notes to see what else needed to be covered. There was nothing else. “OK, I know this is everyone’s favorite part of the meeting. We’re gonna go through each department and see what’s going on. Personnel, anything you need or need to say?” Greg shook his head. “No sir.”
“You sure?”
“Yes sir.”
“Nothin’ at all?” Greg shook his head and James smiled. “Good. Uh, Kevin, what about the account? How’s that looking?”
“Great Mr. Murdock. I talked to Dillon and he said everything looks good from where he’s sitting.”
“Good. Great. I wanna see a copy of the balance from last month too. When can you have that on my desk?”
“Today, sir.”
“Good. Thank you.”
“No problem.” James nodded as he scribbled notes on his notepad. He dropped his pen then looked at Wanda and Mikal, whom sat next to Kevin, the treasurer. “I know y’all would’ve told me if somethin’ was up but I gotta ask in case somethin’ slipped.” The two chuckled then looked at each other. They smiled and Wanda looked at James. “Um, everything is fine in my eyes.”
“Good.”
“Mine too, sir.”
“Good.”
“I do have a question, though.” James nodded at Wanda. “OK. Go ahead.”
“With these lists that they’re submitting, what exactly would you like for them to entail.”
“Good question. I didn’t make that very clear. It’s like two columns. One column has complaints; the next has their suggestions on how to fix it. What you all are doing is finding the common problems, putting your heads together with their suggestions and coming up with the best solutions and submitting that to me where I’ll make a final decision on how to fix each problem and have that back to you.”
“Sounds good.”
“Alright.” James said then ran a hand over his hair. He pointed to Brian and smiled. “Personal Affairs.”
“We hired Linda.” James along with everyone else chuckled. “Let’s not state the obvious.” James joked and everyone chuckled again. “No, really. It’s all good. Um, Trent got with me and let me know they’re picking up security.”
“More bomb threats?” James asked jokingly, well aware they’d never received a bomb threat. “Not quite sir but we have received some letters.” James looked surprised and he turned to Trent Jones, the head of his security department. “Letters? What kind of letters? Why wasn’t I informed?”
“We thought it best not to worry you, Mr. Murdock. There will always be someone that hates what you’re doing. Apparently, some racist nut read about your progress. We’re looking into it but it’s nothing to get riled up about.”
“I trust you. Just don’t let anyone harm my employees Trent.”
“Of course not, sir. We’ve picked up on security and we check each person that joins the ‘force’ thoroughly.”
“I understand that but you make sure. I don’t want any fools doin’ stupid stuff to innocent people because they don’t like me. Don’t let anyone you don’t know through the doors.”
“We don’t do that anyway, Mr. Murdock.”
“Get stricter.”
“Yes sir.” James nodded then looked at Brian. “Was there anything else?”
“No sir.”
“Good. Linda, do you have everything you need?”
“Yes Mr. Murdock, I’m all taken care of.”
“Good. David, what about you? What’s goin’ on in the Resources Department?” David rocked in his chair. “The usual. Books look good, Mr. Matthews is pleased with the asset list, and everyone’s taken care of to my knowledge.”
“Good. You have any concerns or anything?”
“No sir. Everything’s great.”
“Alright. That’s what I love to hear.” David and Trent, James was aware, hardly ever smiled. They both had jobs where they often had to tell people ‘no’ and they tried their best not to look like they could be run over. James didn’t mind. He knew it was for the best and he trusted their ability to do their jobs. “What about you, Paul? The newest board member.” Paul smiled. “It looks good Mr. Murdock. We’ve had a steady rate of increase, not the other way around.”
“Good. Do you need anything?”
“No sir, I’m fine.”
“Good, good. Jackie, how’s it lookin’ in the Administrative Department?” She smiled. “Fine.”
“I love Jackie. Straight to the point. If it’s good it’s fine if something’s wrong, here’s what it is.” Everyone laughed knowing it was true. “No problems then, ma’am?”
“No sir.”
“Good, I like it like that. Rueben, is everything OK with our public appearance?”
“Great sir. They love you. You’re in high demand.”
“Thank you. Keep getting with Hannah or, for now, Courtney and make sure you don’t say anything for me without making sure I said it.” Everyone chuckled and Rueben nodded. “I’ve been trained better than that sir.” He joked and James chuckled as he nodded. “I know. Thomas, how those new employees looking?” Thomas chuckled and nodded. “Great Mr. Murdock, we’ve got some leaders in the making.”
“You’re a great trainer. I just wanna openly thank you. When this business grows, it’ll mainly be because of you.” Thomas was unable to contain his smile. “Thank you sir.”
“Thank you. Is there anything else? Am I missin’ anything?” Everyone looked around and shook their heads. “Alright,” James looked at Courtney and she smiled. “I took minutes.”
“Great.” James said smiling. “Isn’t she doin’ a great job, y’all?” Everyone clapped and Courtney smiled widely as she looked down at Hannah’s notebook where Board Meeting Minutes were kept. “Let’s do a quick run-through.” Courtney turned back a page in the notebook then took a small breath. “Welcome to Linda Harris, authority discussion-led by Mr. Murdock.” James leaned on the table and played with his notepad. “Mr. Winters’ Statistic presentation followed by Mr. Murdock introducing the new ‘complaints method’. Then, each department head discussed their department.” Courtney looked at James. “Would you like me to go through those?” James smiled. “Nah, that’s fine.” James looked at his board and smiled. “Man, our little families just growin’, huh?” Everyone laughed. “Good job today at your first board meeting, Courtney.” Everyone cheered and Courtney smiled widely. “Thank you.” She said shyly and James smiled. “Everyone straight? All minds clear?” People looked around and nodded. James took a small breath. “Then have a blessed rest of the day everyone.” James stood and exited quickly and Courtney followed quickly behind him. Chatter picked up and Greg rolled his eyes. “Am I the only one sick of these little pre-school board meetings?”
“Yes and it appears you’re sick of your job, too.” Everyone laughed at Brian’s comment. “Shut up Brian, you’re just suckin’ up so you won’t lose your job.”
“Losin’ his job is the least of his worries but, talkin’ to him like that, it should be the first of yours.” Once again, everyone laughed and Brian dapped Mikal. “I’ve got better things to do than complain about my job,” Linda directed to Greg and once again, the group chuckled. “It’s your first day; you don’t wanna make enemies in this business, gorgeous.”
“She hasn’t. She just gained a whole heap of friends for talkin’ down to you.” Everyone laughed again and Linda walked out, her assistant following her. Mikal and his secretary left next.

When James got back in his office, he called Hannah. “Hey, did you put me down as a contact at Jamie’s school?” This was the first thing Hannah said when she realized it was James. “Yeah, how’d you know?”
“They called my phone. They said they couldn’t reach you.”
“Oh my God! Is she OK?”
“Calm down, she’s fine. She’s got a small rash on her neck; they’re not sure where it came from.”
“Oh my God!”
“James, calm down. It’s nothing major; they just wanted permission to put something on it to stop the itch.”
“What’d you say?”
“I told them to go ahead.”
“Good.” He took a deep breath. “Do I need to go pick her up?”
“No, I talked to her. She’s doing fine. They gave her a piece of butterscotch candy and put a cream on her neck to keep it from itching. They think she might have had an allergic reaction to her necklace.”
“Ah man.”
“What?”
“I should’ve thought of that.”
“What?”
“I can’t wear fake jewelry. The nickel in it irritates my skin. I’ll just have to buy her another necklace.”
“Well, they took it off of her.”
“Good. I’ll look at it when I pick her up. If it’s just a break out, not a rash, it’s the necklace.”
“I’m sorry. How’s your day?”
“God Hannah, I miss you.” Hannah laughed and James chuckled. “What? I’m serious. I miss you. When you comin’ back?”
“You want me to come on back?”
“Nah, take ya time. Enjoy your vacation.” She chuckled. “The doctor… um, the doctor said… ma’am? OK, just a second. The doctor said he could be going home… James?” James laughed. “Yeah?”
“Hold on, OK?” He chuckled. “OK.” James tapped his fingers on his desk as he waited patiently for Hannah to get back on the phone. “Hello?” James froze. “Hello?” He said, confused. “Is this James?”
“Yes, who am I speaking with?”
“Oh, this is Gloria. Gloria Jordan, I’m Ayah’s mother. I just wanted to talk to you.”
“Oh OK. How are you doin’?”
“I’m fine, baby. I’m fine. I wanted to say thank you for flyin’ her home.”
“Oh Ms. Jordan, it’s no problem, I enjoy doing it.”
“Mm-hmm. So you own the company she works for?”
“Yes ma’am.”
“OK. OK. And she’s your secretary?”
“Yes ma’am.”
“Are you also the one that’s been takin’ her out?” James heard Hannah whispering to her mom in the background. James chuckled lightly. “Yes ma’am. Is that all right?”
“Well, she hasn’t complained. What’s your interest in my daughter, James?”
“I’m very interested in Hannah. I can see her as a big part of my life. She’s an awesome young woman of God and I think she’d make a great wife someday.”
“Yours?” James blushed again. “Yes ma’am, mine.”
“What’d Ayah say?”
“She doesn’t see it yet but she didn’t refuse to date me so I know I have some qualities that she likes.” Gloria chuckled. “Ayah said you got a baby.”
“Yes ma’am. She’s six. Her name is Jamie.”
“That’s pretty. Was she named after you?” James had thought that but he wasn’t really sure. “I think so.”
“That’s sweet.” James chuckled. “Hannah said your husband was doin’ great. I’ve been praying for him.”
“Oh yes, praise God, he’s doing wonderfully. Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. He’s goin’ home on tomorrow.”
“That’s good.”
“Mm-hmm. So when are we gone meet you baby?” James heard Hannah whispering again. “Um, I don’t know when I can take off. It’s the busy season. Tax returns are coming back and a lot of people are trying to start their businesses.”
“Mm-hmm. Mm-hmm. You work at a bank?” James chuckled lightly. “No ma’am, I help small companies get off the ground.”
“Oh that’s good. That’s real good.”
“Yes ma’am.”
“Well, I told Ayah I thought you was a nice young man. She said I don’t know you but I told her I didn’t have ta.”
“I agree. I already know I like you.” Gloria laughed. “Well I’m not gone take up all ya time, baby. Here you go.”
“Yes ma’am, it was nice to meet you Ms. Jordan.”
“Mm-hmm! Mm-hmm, you too, baby. Hold on.” In a moment, Hannah was on the phone. “I’m sorry; she wanted to talk to you.”
“No, I enjoyed talkin’ to your mother. She’s sweet.”
“Yes, I know. I’m sorry for some of the things she said. She’s very straight to the point.”
“I noticed. I love that in people, Ayah.”
“Shut up!” James chuckled. “What is that?”
“It’s a nickname.”
“Why do they call you that?”
“The same reason Eugenia calls you ‘Jaime’.”
“No,” James said quickly. “She just refuses to say my name in English.” Hannah chuckled. “They’ve called me that since I can remember.”
“I think it’s cute. Ayah.” Hannah chuckled. “Only my family calls me that.”
“Well, accordin’ to your mom, I’ll be family soon enough.”
“She didn’t say that!”
“Sure she did, in so many words.” Hannah chuckled. “Hurry and get back to me girl.” He whispered and Hannah smiled. “You’re payin’ for the ticket; you decide when I come home.”
“Don’t make it up to me; you’ll be on a plane today.” Hannah laughed. “You’re makin’ it sound like you miss me or somethin’.”
“Have you heard anything I’ve said, girl? I miss you. I miss you! I miss you! You get it now?” She laughed again. “Aren’t you at work?”
“Yeah, I just got out of a board meeting but I told you I’d call you today.”
“Yep, you are a man of your word.”
“Well, I try to be.”
“I’m enjoyin’ my vacation, but it’ll be good to see you.”
“You know you’re gonna marry me, don’t you?” She was quiet for a moment. “It’s possible.” She said quietly after awhile. James chuckled. “I’ll let Jamie call you tonight.”
“I look forward to it.”
“I lo- I’ll talk to you later.”
“Bye.”
“Later.” James hung up the phone then ran a hand over his hair. He’d had to catch himself before saying the words he felt so strongly. He loved Hannah and he wanted her and the entire world to know it. He bit his lip gently then opened his planner. God, I want to do everything in your timing. James thought as he stared at the pages. Lord, just help me be patient in the process.

James sat checking Jamie’s homework as she talked happily to one of her school friends on the phone. They had the TV on TBN and the volume turned low. When Jamie got off the phone, James went over the slight mistakes in her homework with her and made her correct them. They watched TV for a few more minutes and then he let Jamie call Hannah before she went upstairs to get ready for bed. “Papá!” Jamie shouted as she ran into James room. He put his finger on the spot in his bible where he’d stopped reading. “Yes?” Jamie held out the phone. “Ms. Hannah wants to talk to you.” James sat his bible aside and took the phone. “Hey Han, what’s up?”
“It’s all good. Just wanted to say goodnight.”
“Aw, thanks. Goodnight. Sleep well, OK?”
“You too. And James?”
“Yes?”
“Don’t work too hard…”

James stared at the invitation in front of him. “Business Owner’s of America would like to invite you to be our guest of honor at our annual awards banquet. You and your guest(s) are invited to an evening of fun, entertainment, and relaxation from, what we’re sure are, very busy days.” Underneath was the most astonishing part of all. “James Murdock: You’ve been nominated for: Most Successful Company
There was a number to call to either accept or decline the nomination. James smiled. He didn’t even know there was such a thing as Business Owner’s of America. Putting the letter aside, he bowed his head and thanked God for the opportunity to attend and the nomination. When he finished his prayer, he picked up the phone and dialed the number to accept his nomination and inform them he’d be bringing two other people to the banquet. “That’ll be just fine Mr. Murdock and we thank you very much for your speedy RSVP. I’d also like to ask if your party needs any vegetarian meals.”
“Oh no, whatever you serve will be fine.”
“Thank you sir.”
“Thank you.” James hung up the phone then called Hannah. “Dad’s at home now.” She informed him after they greeted. “Good. I’m glad.”
“I can come back any time, James.”
“Whenever you’re ready, Hannah, that’s fine.”
“Um… how about the day after tomorrow?”
“I’ll call the airline and see what I can get.”
“OK. How’s my girl doin’?”
“She’s good. She was talkin’ to her little friends on the phone last night.”
“Aww, how cute. How are you doin’, James?”
“I’m doin’ good. I’m excited about seeing you.” Someone knocked on the door and James looked up quickly. “Excuse me Mr. Murdock.” James held up a finger to Mikal. “Hey, I’ll call you back, alright?”
“OK.” James hung up then smiled at Mikal. “Please have a seat.” Mikal sat down and held up a small envelope. “I got this in my box. It appears my boss has been nominated for an award.” James smiled. “Yeah, I got that letter too. You goin’?”
“Yes sir. Uh, actually…” Mikal chuckled nervously. “It says we should-could bring a guest and Wanda, she’s like, well she was invited too so I mean—”
“—Mikal if you’d like to escort Wanda, I’m sure that’ll be fine.”
“Thank you sir.” James nodded with a chuckle. “You seem kind of on edge, are you sure that’s it?” Mikal sighed. “You have an unwritten policy about interoffice dating and I don’t want to go against your authority but, as a Christian, Mr. Murdock, I know you’ll understand this.”
“Go ahead.”
“Wanda is it. She’s the one. I feel like we were both put here, of course so we could grow, but also so, we could meet each other. I want your permission to date her sir, but not idly. I intend to make this woman my wife.” James sat back in his chair, unable to contain his smile. “I can completely relate Mikal and I appreciate you respecting me enough to ask me about it. You have my permission.” Mikal smiled and extended his hand as he stood. “Thank you, Mr. Murdock.”
“Of course and let me know how that goes.”
“Yes sir.” Mikal said then turned and walked out. James bowed his head and prayed for the next five minutes. When he closed his prayer, he called the airline to schedule Hannah’s flight.

“I don’t want one.”
“Well why not?”
“Because!” James leaned on his thighs so he was closer to Jamie. “Listen baby, if someone asks you why you said or did something, you can’t just say ‘because’. That’s not a real answer, OK?”
“Well why I can’t just stay with you.”
“You will stay with me, baby and you do but a nanny will be there to pick you up from school and keep you until I get home.”
“But you always pick me up from school.”
“I know but my schedule might be getting a little busier now and I don’t want you to be by yourself.”
“I don’t want a nanny.”
“Why not, Jamie?”
“Because.”
“That’s not an answer.”
“Why don’t you want me?” James’ voice became sterner than he intended. “Don’t ever say that again. I do want you, you understand me?” She nodded, staring at him with wide eyes. James sighed and ran his hands over his face. “I need you to work with me here, Jamie.”
“Well can’t Ms. Hannah be it?”
“She’ll be working with me Jamie. I’ll hire someone nice and fun, I promise.”
“But I don’t want one, papá.”
“Why?”
“I wanna stay with you.”
“You will be staying with me; your nanny will even bring you here to the house. You’ll get to ride the limo to and from school and wherever else you need to go unless she wants to drive.” Jamie sighed. “I don’t want a nanny, I want a papá.” James sighed lightly. “Jamie, you’ve gotta work with me here baby. I only want the best for you.”
“I don’t know a nanny.”
“You’ll get to know her, once she’s hired.”
“I don’t want one! I wanna stay with you!” James sighed sensing his daughter was getting upset. “OK, we’ll talk about this another time. Bring me your homework so I can check it.” Jamie stood quickly and ran to get her book bag. James rubbed at his temples. The conversation had not gone well at all.

It was almost midnight when James’ sheets began to grow damp with the sweat that left his body. He was trapped in the same nightmare that he couldn’t seem to escape. It was so real and, even though he was now a grown man, it was frightening. Through his sleep, his eyes still burned with tears and his body still grew stiff. He wanted to wake up but this was one dream he’d never been able to wake himself up from…
         Hannah rubbed her eyes and ran a hand through her hair to settle it on top of her head. She felt the urge to pray again. It was a few minutes past midnight and the Holy Spirit had woken her up once again to pray. Usually, she woke at four to get ready for work and by six she was in James’s office starting the day off with an awesome hour of prayer before anyone came in. However, every now and again, she’d get a quickening to get up in the middle of the night, like now, and pray. Knowing her father needed rest; she tried not to be too loud as she tipped down the stairs and into the sunroom. She turned on the light and closed the door and began to pray, having no clue why…
         James sat up quickly in bed, trembling from head to foot. He was alone, as he always was and he couldn’t help hating the feeling. He pulled his long legs to his chest and wrapped his thick arms around them. He leaned his large frame over his knees and buried his head in his arms. He wept because he was scared and because he felt helpless. Through his tears, he tried to pray for peace but he was shaking uncontrollably and his words came out in many different octaves. As he sobbed, he shut his eyes tightly, praying fervently against the visions that came into his mind. He wanted to forget. He wanted to escape this nightmare; escape his past.

James didn’t have to look in the mirror to know he looked terrible. Looking at his reflection made things worse. Not only was he tired, he felt physically drained from his early morning episode. This one had been bad. He was unable to get back to sleep. He spent the rest of the morning weeping and searching through his bible for a comforting scripture. Jamie seemed to be the beautiful, happy girl he knew her to be that morning and he was glad. She didn’t mind the normal ponytail or the same bowl of cereal as every other morning. She didn’t seem to notice the slight white scuff on her black shoes or that her lacey, ruffled socks weren’t quite folded down to the same height. All of these things, however, bothered James and made him feel worse than he already did. He tried to smile and tried to laugh but he knew he needed help. Things were just getting worse.
         When James stepped off the elevator, he expected Hannah to be there. He knew she wasn’t due in until that afternoon but he felt a peace flush him that he usually only felt when she had his office ‘prayed up’. The same morning crowd greeted him with new problems and James gave each of them proper answers and solutions. He accepted a strong cup of pure black coffee from Courtney and expressed his appreciation before going into his office and closing the door. He closed the blinds of the windows that looked out over his employees as well. James plopped down in his chair and buried his face in his hands. He’d managed to get to his office without hinting at what he was feeling. But what was he feeling? Weak and helpless which he knew was terrible. He should’ve been dominating. He should’ve been feeling terrific. But something was wrong. He forced himself to smile and he forced himself to laugh but he couldn’t bring himself to feel the truth behind either action. He pushed his eyes closed and began to pray to his heavenly father as if he were just a small boy seeking answers from his dad. It was in that moment, though he couldn’t hear an answer that a peace came over him. He made a decision to give the entire situation back to God, as he’d done so many times before. When he knew he was encouraged, he prayed even harder for his daughter and that, she’d never have to go through what he’d just endured.
Hannah zipped her suitcase then stood up straight and stretched her back. Just as she was about to drag her bag down the stairs, she heard her mother scream…
“Mr. Murdock?”
“Yes Courtney?”
“Ms. Jordan on line 1.”
“Thank you.” James picked up his phone. “Hannah?”
“James?” James froze. Hannah had tears in her voice. “Baby, what’s wrong?” She sniffed. “My daddy just had another heart attack. The doctor said it doesn’t look good. I’m sorry, I can’t come home today. I have to be here, James. I need more time. He just- he just—”
“—OK honey, calm down.”
“You didn’t see the look on his face. There was real pain there. His face was virtually void of all expression. James—”
“—Han, I’m on my way, OK?”
“What?” James sighed. “I’m gonna turn the ticket around and me and Jamie are comin’ there. I’m sick of Satan. I’m on my way there, OK?” She sniffed. “You don’t hafta do that.”
“I’ll meet you at the hospital when we get in town, all right?” She sniffed again. “OK.”
“I’ll be in touch.”
         Courtney followed behind James as quickly as she could. “Oh, and make sure you tell Mikal he’s in control until I get back. Send out a memo to my board to keep Hannah’s family in prayer.”
“Yes Mr. Murdock.” James put on his coat. “Oh and call Jamie’s school again and make sure they remember I’m comin’ and that I need her ready when I get there.”
“Yes sir, Mr. Murdock.” Courtney handed him his briefcase. “Have a good trip, sir.”
“Thank you Courtney, for everything. If you need anything you have mine and Hannah’s cell number, just give either one of us a call.”
“Yes sir.” James stopped at the elevator and looked around. “Am I forgetting anything?”
“No sir, not to my knowledge.”
“OK, thank you. If Hannah calls, let her know she can reach me on my cell phone.”
“Yes sir.”
“Thanks Courtney.”
“It’s no problem Mr. Murdock.” James hugged her before he stepped onto the elevator and Courtney smiled as soon as the doors closed.

James looked at Jamie. “Are you excited about seeing Ms. Hannah?”
“Yes sir. I can hardly wait.” James smiled as he looked down at Jamie’s coloring book and the picture she was coloring. “That’s pretty.”
“Mamá loved Beauty and the Beast. She always made me watch it in Spanish though, and I could never understand it.” James smiled lightly. “When we get to Nashville, we’ll buy the movie, OK?” Jamie nodded with a wide smile on her face. James rested his head against the back of his seat and tried to relax. He took a deep breath then opened his bible and prayed quietly as he meditated on healing scriptures.
         “Papa.” James looked down at Jamie who had her hand on his arm. “Papa, we’re here.”
“Oh, OK.” James wiped his face then looked at his watch. It was around six. They’d landed on schedule and James was glad. He felt completely relaxed. He and Jamie stood and she got her duffle bag and purse. James checked to make sure they had everything then grabbed his bible and they walked off the plane. He called Hannah as he got their bags. She told the limo driver what hospital they were at and James and Jamie got into the limo. Jamie loved the ride. “You like this, baby?” He asked and Jamie looked back at him with a large smile. “Oh yes papa! I love it!” James chuckled. “I’m glad. Come here, hija.” Jamie smiled widely. “Mama used to call me that!” James smiled. “Did she?”
“Uh-huh. It means daughter.”
“That’s right.” Jamie went and sat next to him. “Papa, do you want me to speak Spanish?”
“It’s a good language to learn.”
“Mama wanted me to speak Spanish.”
“Yeah, well I want you to be bilingual. That means you can speak two languages.”
“English and Spanish?”
“That’s right.” Jamie nodded. James put an arm around her. “You know, Papa’s goin’ straight to the hospital now.” Jamie put her head down. “Mama was in the hospital and she died.”
“I know. Are you OK with goin’ with me?” Jamie sighed lightly. “You’re OK, right?”
“Oh yeah! I’m fine honey. I’m not goin’ for me, pumpkin. Ms. Hannah’s papa is there and I just wanna go and pray for him.”
“‘Cause prayer can fix anything, right?” James smiled. “That’s right.”
“Then I’m gonna pray for him too.”
“You do that baby. That would be wonderful.”
“Sis. Rachael calls it prayin’ down heaven.” James chuckled. “That sounds about right.” James bit his lip gently and Jamie started praying. It warmed James’ heart to hear his daughter praying. He’d never heard anything more beautiful.

Hannah jogged to the elevator just as the doors opened. James stepped off and grabbed her into his arms. “Oh God. It’s so good to see you.” He squeezed her gently then let her go. “Where is he?” Hannah looked at him through wide eyes. “Down the hall. Come on, I’ll show you.” James grabbed Jamie’s hand and walked briskly behind Hannah. He let go of Jamie’s hand when they reached the room and walked in. He draped his jacket over a chair then walked over to the bed. He looked at Hannah’s father and took a small breath. He prayed quietly then placed his hand on his shoulder. James rubbed the shoulder of Hannah’s father gently as he prayed and then he lightly shook him. “Mr. Jordan, I know you can hear me so just listen, OK? My name is James and I’m a friend of Hannah’s from Atlanta. Before she came here, she told me you were sick and I began praying for you then. She called me today and told me you had a stroke this morning and you were back in the hospital but sir, that’s not an answer to my prayers so I’m not accepting that. Now, what I need you to do, and I know you can hear me, is get up so you can go home.” From where she was standing, Hannah saw no change and she felt tears in her eyes. James smiled. “It’s all right, you don’t know me. I’m a friend of Hannah’s.”
“Where am I?” She heard her father ask and she gasped. “You’re in the hospital.”
“Why?”
“You had a stroke this morning.”
“When? How? I was just sitting in my room and I blinked and now I’m here.”
“You feel fine, daddy?” Hannah asked as she stepped over to the bed and her father nodded. “There’s not a thing wrong with me.”
“We’re gonna have the doctor come in anyways.” James said then stood up. He kissed the top of Hannah’s head. “I’ll see you later.” He whispered. Hannah looked at him quickly. “You’re leaving?”
“Yeah, I’m s’posed to check in at the Hilton at seven.”
“Seven? Were you not plannin’ to come here first?”
“No, I was. I just knew it wouldn’t take long.” She smiled at him. “You have to meet my mom.”
“I’ll call you.”
“OK. Goodnight.” He stroked her arm gently. “See ya.”
“Later.”
“Nice to meet you Mr. Jordan.”
“You too.” James took Jamie’s hand and led her out. They got into the limo and the driver headed towards the hotel. James looked down at his hands and saw they were trembling. What had just happened? Had God really used him to heal Hannah’s father? He sat in disbelief and took a deep breath. For some reason he felt drained. As if everything in him had been literally pulled out. A smile touched his lips. God had used him. He began thanking God for the miracle He had worked. This trip had definitely been ordained by God. It didn’t take long for them to get checked in and James was glad. He fell asleep as soon as he lay on the bed.
         “He’s asleep.” James heard Jamie say as he rolled over. He went against everything inside of him and sat up. “No I’m not.” He said knowing his voice sounded horrible. “Gimme the phone.” Jamie chuckled. “He just woke up! Like Lazarus!” She said then laughed and James couldn’t help but smile and even manage a slight chuckle as Jamie handed him the phone. “Who is it?”
“Ms. Hannah.”
“Hey Han.” James said as he got out of bed and went to his suitcase. He couldn’t believe he’d fallen asleep in his suit. “Hi. How’s it goin’?”
“Great. How are you?”
“Oh, I’m good. My family’s still a little shocked. Dad really doesn’t remember even having the stroke. He said he knows something happened he just doesn’t know what.” James smiled. “God is a miracle worker. He’s still in that business.” Hannah chuckled. “I see.” She said and there was a slight pause. “Well, do you and Jamie have dinner plans?”
“Dinner? No, I was just gonna order a pizza or something.” Hannah chuckled again. “Mom would have a fit. Why don’t y’all come over here?”
“I don’t wanna intrude—”
“—Oh James, hush! My mother would be offended if she heard you say that. You two should come over here for dinner. I’ll come pick you up—”
“—No, I can rent a car. It’s fine. I don’t want you to have to come back out that late to bring us back. I can drive.”
“No, one of my brothers can take you home, or both of them. It’s really no problem, James.” James smiled. He remembered that Hannah had five other siblings; two brothers, and three sisters. He knew that eight mouths were a lot to feed and he’d hate to add two more but he knew neither Hannah nor her family would have it any other way. Therefore, it was, around eight that night, James and Jamie were getting into the car with Abraham, Hannah’s younger brother and the youngest of the bunch. James was happy to meet him and looked forward to meeting all of her other siblings as well. “So, how’s Atlanta?”
“It’s great, I love it.” James said and Abraham nodded. “That’s what Ayah says every time I ask her ‘dat. She’s tryin’ to get me to move up there when I graduate but I don’t know yet. She said she wants me to live wit’ her but…” Abraham shrugged. “I’m just not feelin’ it.”
“Well, that’s understandable.”
“Oh well, she’ll probably be movin’ in wit’ you soon, anyway, though, huh?” James looked at him quickly. “Whoa! Not unless we’re married.” Abraham smiled and looked at him. “I know. So she’ll probably be movin’ in wit’ you soon, huh?” James laughed realizing what he meant. “Ah man. I certainly hope so.”
“Y’all are datin’?”
“Nah, we’ve been out a couple of times but not really datin’. She won’t date anyone she don’t think she can marry.”
“She won’t date you?” James shook his head then glanced at Jamie. She didn’t seem to be paying attention to the conversation and James was glad. He’d bought her a new Beauty and the Beast coloring book and, with the aid of the backseat light, she was coloring and humming quietly. “That’s crazy. I love my sisters but they make some weird decisions sometimes.” James chuckled. “She just wants to be sure. Marriage is nothin’ to play with.”
“Yeah, I know. My parents have beat it into me and Hezekiah’s head’s enough.” James chuckled. There was a slight pause, in which Abraham became serious. “James, I wanna thank you for what you did for my father.”
“It wasn’t me, it was God, man.”
“Still,” Abraham said. “I know you didn’t have to come out here and you did. My family really appreciates that.” James smiled. “All good.” He said then glanced at Jamie again. She was doing fine.
         James felt like he was walking into a family reunion when he walked into Hannah’s parent’s home. Everyone welcomed him with hugs and kisses on the cheek as if he were part of the family. He immediately fit right in and they all loved Jamie. Hannah’s older sister, Naomi, had a five-year-old son named ZJ that took to Jamie immediately. James tried his absolute hardest to remember everyone’s names. Hannah’s parents only had six children but Martha and Naomi were married. He mentally put them in alphabetical order. Abraham, Hannah, Hezekiah, Kent, who was Martha’s husband, Martha, Mary, Naomi, and Zak, her husband. It wasn’t that hard, he finally concluded. The hardest part was putting the face with the names, especially with Mary and Martha, the twins. Of course, he did fine and everything went well. Dinner wasn’t quite ready when James got there and all the women went back to the kitchen after greeting him. James asked if Jamie could go with ZJ and even though she gave a look that said she didn’t want to, he nudged her off anyways. He didn’t want her sitting with adults all the time. Hannah managed to steal a few peeks in the living room and saw that James was getting along very well with her brothers and father. He’d played football in high school, it appeared, but had been injured in the middle of his senior year. Football was a big deal to them and the fact that he’d led his high school team to a state championship where he’d won (and had the ring to prove it) made him instantly accepted. The men spoke of football and business in the living room while the women talked about James and why Hannah was procrastinating in dating James. “I’m not procrastinating, I just wanna be sure.”
“Sure of what? He’s obviously saved; of course, he’s rich. The man loves you to death, Ayah. I don’t know what you feel your waiting on.”
“You don’t understand, Mary, I’m not just 'not dating' him. I have to be sure he’s the right one.”
“Honey!” Martha said turning around quickly, a hand on her hip. “If he ain’t the right one for you, girl, I don’t know who is.” They all chuckled and Hannah shook her head with a smile. “I don’t know. I just think God would show me if James was the man for me.” They all laughed. “He’s putting everything you need to know in front of you, you just won’t look.” Naomi said. Hannah sighed heavily as she walked to the refrigerator and pulled out cheese for her macaroni and cheese. “Naomi, you of all people can’t talk to me about rushing into a marriage. You waited two years before you married Zak and y’all had a baby already.” The girls laughed and Naomi shrugged. “I just don’t want you to make the same mistake I made, girl.”
“Well, that’s what I’m tryin’ not to do. I don’t wanna marry the wrong man.”
“How can James Murdock be the wrong man?” Mary asked as she crossed her arms. “I’m not sayin’ he’s the wrong guy! I just don’t know that he’s the right guy for me. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with James and I know that, y’all. I just have to make sure.”
“Knock, knock.” All the women looked toward the kitchen entrance then smiled when they saw it was James. “Hi, baby!” Gloria said smiling at him and James chuckled. “I’m glad to finally meet y’all in person.” He said as he walked into the kitchen and they all giggled. Hannah smiled at him. “Whatcha need?” She asked and James smiled at her. “You look cute.” He whispered and Hannah blushed. James looked up. “Oh,” He said looking around at the women. “May I have somethin’ to drink?”
“Oh sure!”
“Of course!”
“I’ll get it!”
“No let me.”
“Here, I’ll get it for you.” All these comments came at once and James chuckled. “I’m sorry to interrupt.”
“Oh no, it’s fine, baby!”
“I can’t believe Hannah didn’t offer you somethin’ before.”
“Shame on you!”
“My bad!” James smiled at Hannah quickly then shrugged. “It’s no big deal. My throat just got a little dry.”
“What would you like, sir-er, um, James.” Hannah said and he chuckled. “Over a billion miles from work and you still can’t just call me James.” She chuckled nervously. “I’m sorry.”
“Yeah, well…” He shrugged. “What do you have?”
“I made some tea!” Mary said. “There may be some apple juice in there.”
“I know Abe made some lemonade last night. Is there any left?”
“No, he and Kie drank that.”
“Here’s some coke!”
“James doesn’t drink sodas.”
“Well here’s some Sprite!”
“Sprite’s a soda.”
“Not to some people.”
“To James it is.”
“James baby, what do you want?” James chuckled. “I like listenin’ to y’all. I’ll let y’all decide.” They all laughed as James walked into the living room. “Give him some of my tea.” Mary said bouncing over to the refrigerator. “He won’t want any of that. Give him some apple juice.”
“Just give him some coke, Ayah!”
“She said he doesn’t like coke!”
“Y’all just let Ayah decides, she works around the man all the time.”
“Fine, Ayah, what do you think?”
“My tea—”
“—Or apple juice?” Hannah chuckled lightly. “We’re gonna go with the tea.”
“Fine. If he doesn’t like it, it’s all on you.” Hannah laughed as she pulled out the pitcher and made James a glass of iced tea. When she took it to him, he smiled up at her. “What’d y’all decide?”
“Tea it is.”
“Mary’s tea?” Hannah nodded. James took a sip then smiled widely. “Tell Mary it’s delicious.”
“Yay!” Mary yelled and they laughed. “I guess she heard you.” Hannah said then went back in the kitchen. James watched her walk away and Hezekiah laughed loudly. “Can’t take your eyes off her, eh? Hannah ain’t ugly though.”
“No, she’s not.” James said then drank some more of his tea. “Ay Martha!” Kent yelled. “What?” Martha yelled back from the kitchen. “Can I get somethin’ ta drink too?”
“You got legs, don’t ya?” All the men laughed and Kent shook his head. “I swear that woman’s gone be the death of me.” He said standing and walking into the kitchen. James drank more of his drink then leaned back in his seat and gave a sigh of contentment as he stared at the game.



continued in chapter 3 part 2