Boardwalk Brides

  Oh yes, Gregg reasoned, it must have something to do with the snows melting. Gramps was anxious to go fishing. Still, the older fellow sure had a strange way of phrasing things.

  As Tangie and her grandparents disappeared from view, Gregg made his way to his car. Tonight’s date with Ashley would start a whole new chapter of his life. Suddenly, he could hardly wait to turn the page.

  THREE

  On Sunday morning, Tangie and her grandparents left for church plenty early. With the roads still covered in snow and ice and Gramps’ plan to stop for donuts along the way, they could use the extra time. Besides, she wanted to get to the church in time to acclimate herself to her new surroundings.

  Tangie had given herself a quick glance in the mirror just before they left. She’d deliberately chosen her most conservative outfit—a flowing black skirt with a seventies hippie feel to it, and a gray cashmere sweater. Wrapping a black scarf around her neck, she leaned forward to have a look at her makeup. Not too much, not too little. . .just right. She chuckled, realizing how much she sounded like Goldilocks. If only she had the blond hair to make the picture complete. Nah, on second thought, she definitely looked better as a redhead. Or purple, depending on the angle and the lighting.

  As they drove to the church, Tangie thought about the events about to transpire. A sense of excitement took hold. The more she thought about it, the more her anticipation grew. This wasn’t about shaking people up, as Gran-Gran had said. No, Tangie had come to Harmony to help the kids develop their God-given talents so they could further the kingdom. She wanted to reach people for the Lord, and could clearly see the role the arts played in that. Oh, if only everyone could catch hold of that!

  They stopped at the local bakery on the way and Gramps went inside. Tangie and her grandmother chatted while they waited in the Ford.

  “I still can’t wait to see the looks on everyone’s faces when they find out you’ve been hired as drama director,” Gran-Gran said, and then snickered. “Ella Mae Peterson is going to have a fit. She thinks the church spends too much money on their arts programs, as it is.”

  Tangie sighed. How many times had she heard this argument over the years? “Mrs. Peterson needs to realize the arts are an awesome way to reach people. When you present the gospel message through drama, music, or other artistic venues, people’s lives are touched in a way unlike any other. Performing for the Lord isn’t about the accolades or even about ability. It’s about using the gifts God has given you to captivate the heart and emotions of the audience member. You can’t put a price tag on that.”

  “Exactly.” Gran-Gran nodded. “Which is exactly what some of these set-in-their-ways folks need to realize. You’re going to shake them up, honey. Give ’em a run for their money.”

  “Not sure I want to!” she admitted. In fact, this was one time she’d rather just fit in.

  “Well, trust me. . .some people could use a little shaking. You’d be surprised how stiff people can be. And I’m not talking arthritis here.” Gran-Gran winked.

  Stiff? Oh, great. And it’s my job to unstiffen them? Just as quickly she chided herself. No, it’s the Lord’s job to unstiffen them. . .if He so chooses.

  Gramps returned to the car with a large box of donuts. He reached inside and snagged one, taking a big bite. Gran-Gran scolded him, but he didn’t let that stop him. Finishing it, he licked his fingers, then set the car in motion once again.

  They arrived at the church in short order. Tangie could hardly believe the mob of cars in the parking lot. “When did this happen, Gran-Gran? It wasn’t like this last time I was here.”

  “Told you! This church is in revival, honey. We’re bursting at the seams. Before long, we’ll have to build a new sanctuary. In the meantime, we’re already holding two Sunday services and one on Saturday evenings, too. Even at that, parking is a mess.”

  “Wow.” Tangie could hardly believe it. Her church in New York City wasn’t this full on Sunday mornings, not even on Christmas or Easter.

  Once they got inside the foyer, she found herself surrounded on every side by people. “Man, this place has grown.”

  Gran-Gran flew into action and, over a fifteen-minute period, introduced Tangie to dozens of church members, young and old alike. She met so many people, her head was swimming. Tangie fervently hoped they wouldn’t quiz her on the names afterward. She’d fail miserably.

  As the word fail flitted through her mind, Tangie sighed. Lord, I don’t want to fail at this like I’ve done so many times. How many times had she fallen short of the mark in her acting career? How wonderful it would have been to land a lead role just once. She’d dreamed of it all her life, but never quite succeeded. Oh, there had been callbacks. Wonderful, glorious callbacks that got her hopes up. But each time she’d been disappointed, relegated to a smaller role.

  On the other hand, Tangie didn’t really mind the secondary roles. . .if only they had lasted more than a week or two. So many of the shows she’d been in had closed early, due to poor reviews. Was she destined to remain the underdog forever? Almost good enough. . .but not quite?

  And what about her personal life? Would any of her relationships stand the test of time, or would she always bounce from one relationship to the next, never knowing what true love felt like? I’m asking You to help me succeed this time. Not for my glory, but for Yours. Help me see this thing through from start to finish. I don’t want to be a quitter.

  Through the sanctuary doors, she heard the beginning strains of a familiar praise song. As they entered the auditorium, she looked around in amazement. The place was alive with excitement. People clapped their hands along with the music, many singing with abandon. She followed behind Gran-Gran and Gramps to the third row, where they scooted past a couple of people and settled into seats.

  Glancing up to the stage, Tangie watched Gregg standing front and center with a guitar in hand. His fingers moved with skill across the strings, and his voice—pure and melodic—immediately ushered her into the presence of God. See, Lord? That’s what I was trying to tell Gran-Gran. It is possible to stand center stage, not for the applause of men, but to bring people closer to You.

  She closed her eyes, thankful for the opportunity to worship. The music continued, each song better than the one before. Tangie watched as the choir geared up for a special number—the contemporary version of the “Hallelujah Chorus.” The soloist—a beautiful young woman in her mid-twenties—floored Tangie with her vocal ability.

  “That’s our children’s minister, Ashley Conway,” Gran-Gran whispered. “Isn’t she something?”

  “To say the least,” Tangie responded in a hoarse whisper. “I think she rivals anyone I’ve ever seen or heard on a Broadway stage.”

  “Yep. We’ve got some talent here in Harmony, that’s for sure.” Her grandmother winked before turning to face the stage once again.

  Tangie reached for an offering envelope and scribbled the words, “Why doesn’t Ashley just help Gregg with the kids’ production?” on it. She gave the girl another glance, then penciled in a few more words: “She’s got the goods.”

  Gran-Gran frowned as Tangie handed her the envelope. After reading it, she scribbled down, “Too busy. Ashley works five days a week at the elementary school and Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights at church. No time.”

  “Ah.” Tangie looked up, focusing on the choir. With Gregg at the helm, Ashley and the other choir members performed flawlessly. They were every bit as good as the choir at her home church. Maybe better. And Gregg’s heart for God was evident, no doubt about that. Tangie felt shame wash over her as she thought about the way she’d described him to Gran-Gran over the phone.

  Lord, forgive me for calling him geeky. This is a great guy. And he’s doing a wonderful work here.

  In fact, she could hardly wait to work alongside him.

  After the choir wrapped up its number, the singers exited the stage. Tangie watched as Gregg trailed off behind them. He reached to pat Ashley on the back, giving a
smile and a nod.

  “See? He has the gift of encouragement, too,” Gran-Gran whispered. “That’s a plus.”

  Finally the moment arrived. Pastor Hampton took the stage. Though she didn’t usually struggle with stage fright, Tangie’s nerves got the better of her as she listened for his prompting to come to the front of the church for an official introduction to the congregation. As she waited, she narrowed her gaze and focused on Gregg Burke, who now sat in the front row of the next section. He turned back to look at her—or was he looking at Gramps?—with a confused expression on his face. What was up with that?

  She found herself staring at him for a moment. Maybe he wasn’t as geeky looking as she’d once thought. In fact, that blue shirt really showed off his eyes. . .his best feature.

  She’d almost lost her train of thought when Pastor Hampton flashed a smile and said, “I’d like to introduce our new drama director, Tangie Carini.” With her knees knocking, she rose from her seat and headed to the stage.

  ***

  From his spot in the front row, Gregg turned, then stared at the young woman rising from her seat. Wait. This was their new drama director? Surely there must be some mistake. The woman Dave had told him about was polished, professional. He would never have described this girl in such a way.

  Slow down, Gregg. Don’t judge a book by its cover. People did that with your mom, and look what happened.

  He forced his thoughts away from that particular subject and watched as Tangie made her way from the pew to the stage. Oh, if only he could stay focused. Her bright red hair—if one could call it red—was far too distracting. Underneath the sanctuary lights, it had a strange purple glow to it. And then there was the row of earrings lining her right ear. Interesting. Different.

  She looked his way and offered a shy smile, as if she somehow expected him to know exactly who she was and what she was doing here. He hoped the smile he offered in response was convincing enough.

  As she brushed a loose hair from her face, he noticed the tattoo on the inside of her wrist. He strained to make it out, but could not.

  “Dave, what have you done?” he whispered. “You’ve slipped over the edge, man.” Tangie Carini was the last person on planet Earth Gregg would’ve imagined the church hiring. She was the polar opposite of everything. . .well, of everything he was.

  On the other hand. . .

  As she opened her mouth, thanking the congregation for welcoming her to Harmony Community Church, nothing but pure goodness oozed out. He found himself spellbound by the soothing sound of her voice—very controlled and just the right tone. She’d done this before. . .spoken in front of a crowd.

  Then again, if what Dave had said about her was true, she’d performed in front of thousands, and on Broadway, no less. Suddenly Gregg felt like crawling under his pew. Just wait till she got a look at the video of the Christmas play. She’d eat him for lunch.

  ***

  Tangie shared her heart with the congregation, keenly aware of the fact that Gregg Burke watched her every move. What was he staring at? Surely the pastor had filled him in. . .right?

  Oh well. Plenty of time to worry about that later. With a full heart, Tangie began explaining her vision for the drama program.

  “I’m a firm believer in stirring up the gifts. And each of these children is gifted in his or her own way. I plan to spend time developing whatever abilities I see in each child so that he or she can walk in the fullness of God’s call.”

  She paused a moment as members of the congregation responded with a couple of “Amen’s.” Looked like they were cool with her ideas thus far.

  After that, she went into a passionate speech about the role of the arts in ministry. “God has gifted us for a reason, not for the sake of entertainment—though we all love to entertain and be entertained. However, He has gifted us so that we can share the gospel message in a way that’s fresh. Creative. Life-changing.”

  As she spoke, Tangie noticed the smiles from most in the congregation. Sure, Ella Mae Peterson, Gran-Gran’s friend, sat with her arms crossed at her chest. Well, no problem there. She and the Lord would win Mrs. Peterson over.

  As she wrapped up her speech, Tangie turned to nod in Gregg’s direction. The music pastor flashed a smile, but she noticed it looked a little rehearsed. She knew acting when she saw it. He wasn’t happy she was there.

  Hmm. Maybe Ella Mae wasn’t her only adversary. Well, no problem. Tangie made up her mind to win over Gregg Burke, too. . .no matter what it took.

  FOUR

  On New Year’s Eve, Tangie went with her grandparents to a party at the church. It sure wouldn’t be the same as celebrating the New Year in Times Square, but she’d make the best of it. She decided to let her hair down—figuratively speaking—so that the people of Harmony could see the real Tangie. The one with the eclectic wardrobe. She settled on black pants, a 1990s zebra-print top and a lime green scarf, just for fun. For kicks, she added a hot pink necklace and earring ensemble. Standing back, she took a look at the mirror. “Hmm. Not bad. Nothing like a little color to liven things up.”

  They’d no sooner arrived at the church than the chaos began. Kids, food, games, activities. . .the whole place was a madhouse. In a happy sort of way.

  “Told you we know how to have fun,” Gran-Gran said with a twinkle in her eye. “Now, just let me drop off this food in the fellowship hall and I’ll introduce you to a few people your own age.”

  Minutes later, Tangie found herself surrounded by elementary-age kids. They weren’t exactly her age, but they’d gravitated to her nonetheless.

  A pretty little thing with blond hair tugged at Tangie’s sleeve. “I’m Margaret Sanderson and I’m an actress, just like you,” the girl said, puffing up her shoulders and tossing her hair. “My mama says I was the best one in the Christmas play. They should’ve given me the lead part. Then the whole play would’ve been better.”

  “Oh? Is that so?” Tangie tried to hold her composure.

  “Yes, and I can sing, too.” The little girl’s confidence increased more with each word. “Want to hear me?”

  Before she could respond, the little girl began to belt “The Lullaby of Broadway.” To her credit, Margaret could, indeed, sing. And what she lacked in decorum, she made up for in volume. Still, there was something a little over the top about the vivacious youngster.

  I know what it is. She reminds me of myself at that age. Only, she’s got a lot more nerve.

  Tangie released a breath, wanting to say just the right thing. “We’ll be holding auditions for an Easter production soon and I certainly look forward to seeing you there.”

  “Oh, I know. I’ve been practicing all week,” Margaret explained with a knowing look in her eye. “I’m going to be the best one there. And Mama says that if they don’t give me the main part, I can’t do it at all.”

  We’ll see about that.

  Tangie turned as a little boy grabbed her other sleeve. “Hey, do I have to do that stupid Easter play?” he grumbled. “I don’t want to.”

  “Well, I suppose that’s up to your mom and dad,” she said with a shrug. “It’s not my decision.”

  “I don’t have a dad.” His gaze shifted downward. “And my mom always makes me try out for these dumb plays. But I stink at acting and singing.”

  Tangie quirked a brow, wondering where he got such an idea. “Who told you that?”

  He stared at her like she’d grown two heads. “Nobody has to tell me. I just stink. Wait till you see the video. Then you’ll know.”

  “Ah. Well, I suppose I’ll just have to see for myself, then.”

  From across the room, Tangie caught a glimpse of Gregg standing next to the young woman who’d sung the solo on Sunday. What did Gran-Gran say her name was, again?

  Determined to connect with people, Tangie headed their way. As she approached the couple, she could see the look in Gregg’s eyes as he talked to the beautiful brunette. Ah. A spark. He must really like her.

  Gregg turned Ta
ngie’s way and nodded. “Tangie Carini.”

  “Gregg Burke.” She offered a welcoming smile. “We meet officially. . .at last.”

  “Yes. Sorry about the other day in the hallway. I didn’t know who you were, or I would have said something then. I’m glad you’re here.”

  “Thanks.” Maybe this wouldn’t be as tough as she’d feared. Looked like he was a pretty easygoing guy.

  Gregg nodded as he gestured to the brunette at his side. “Tangie, this is Ashley Conway, our children’s director.”

  Ashley. That’s it.

  Ashley looked her way with curiosity etched on her face. “Tangie?” she said. “I don’t think I’ve ever heard that one before. You’ll have to tell me more about your name.”

  Tangie groaned. Oh, how she hated telling people that she was named after the flavor of the month when she was born. Having parents in the taffy business didn’t always work to a girl’s advantage.

  Thankfully, Pastor Hampton made an announcement, giving her a reprieve.

  “I know the kids are anxious to see the video of the Christmas performance,” he said. “So why don’t we go ahead and gather everyone in the sanctuary to watch it together.”

  Gregg groaned and Ashley slugged him in the arm. “Oh, c’mon. It’s not so bad.”

  “Whatever.” He shook his head, and then looked at Tangie with pursed lips. “Just don’t hold this against me, okay? I’m a musician, not a drama director.”

  “Of course.” With anticipation mounting, Tangie tagged along behind Gran-Gran and Gramps to the sanctuary to watch the video. Finally! Something she could really relate to.

  “Now, don’t expect too much,” Gran-Gran whispered as they took their seats. “Remember what I told you on the phone the other day.”

  “Right.” Tangie nodded. Surely her grandmother had exaggerated, though. With Gregg being such an accomplished musician, the production couldn’t have been too bad, right?