Amazing Grace (The American Soldier Collection 3)

“I suppose I have been exposed to a bit more than the average American girl. After all I’m around gorgeous models all day long. I’ve picked up a few pointers.”

“Well I’d love for you to show me some of those pointers you picked up. I could use them,” Jamie added and the girls laughed.

“I think you’re gorgeous and your new husband is very lucky he was able to snatch you up.”

Jamie smiled then glanced back toward the party. Tod and Jamie locked eyes and the two newlyweds smiled simultaneously.

Grace watched and giggled.

“See what I mean. He’s keeping an eye on you.”

Jamie giggled then smiled and linked her arm over Grace’s again.

“It must have been so exciting seeing all those beautiful places. Paris, Rome, Venice. How many places have you traveled to? Do you remember all of them?”

“I wouldn’t have if I didn’t take along my camera. I’ll show you the scrapbook I kept on my travels. Now how about we go out on that dance floor and show them how to really do the twist?” Grace took Jamie’s hand, pulling her along with her.

The celebrating continued and Grace was introduced to many of her brothers’ single friends. When everyone found out she was single, they all turned into matchmakers and started introducing her to every bachelor at the wedding. It was quite embarrassing. She also had the feeling that her family expected her to stay for good. That just wasn’t an option for her.

Her aunt Grace, who she was named after, even introduced her to one of the waiters working the party.

Grace couldn’t help but laugh to herself. It was as if she never left or at least had not been gone for as long as she had.

“Honey, come sit down with me a moment. I want to look at you.”

Grace smiled at her great-aunt Betsy.

She took a seat next to the older gray-haired lady who always reminded her of blackberry preserves. That was what Aunt Betsy was known for.

“You wouldn’t happen to still be making your famous blackberry preserves, would you?” Grace asked.

Her aunt knew how much Grace loved them, and she smiled wide that Grace asked.

“Yes, I do and you better be sure you stop by my place tomorrow to have some with me. Your mom and Aunt Grace will be there, too,” Aunt Betsy added then she smiled at Grace.

The day brought more plans and invitations than Grace felt she could possibly be part of or attend but she would try her hardest starting first thing in the morning. She needed to find a place to stay until she could figure out what she would be doing.

As the wedding festivities drew to an end, Grace’s family would continue the celebration back at her mom’s house. It was a night to remember and cherish forever.

* * * *

The following morning Grace’s phone at the hotel wouldn’t stop ringing. By late morning everyone knew she was back home and they were organizing party after party. She had a few moments of silence and opted to watch TV while she touched up her manicure.

She stopped immediately when she heard the news. She could hardly breathe. Did she imagine it? There was no way it could be true. No one said a word to her at the wedding, neither did Peter.

She turned up the volume and listened to the reporter.

“The Houston Police Department has no comment at this time. When we feel we have information we can release to the public there will be a press conference, and Special Investigator Sandstone will announce his progress. Thank you.” The news representative from the Houston Police Department interrupted her thoughts. Grace just stared at the television screen.

Grace was still uncertain she heard the words “serial killer” correctly. Then she changed the channel and they made the announcement.

Apparently these killings had some similarities and they felt that they could possibly be connected to other crimes from the past.

Grace didn’t like the sensation she had in her gut and was startled when the phone rang as she jumped up to answer it.

“Hi, honey, it’s Peter. Have you turned on the television?” Grace could hear the concern in her brother’s voice.

“Yes, I just heard the reports. It’s terrible. What’s going on? I hope they can find the one who’s doing this.” Grace was rambling.