Chase shuffled through some papers on his desk when his assistant buzzed in to announce a call from Mr. Moore. Chase smiled at the mention of the man’s name. He and Chase’s father had been close friends for years, which was an amazing feat since they were technically rivals. Mr. Moore was also a Christian publisher who began about the same time as the Carson Publishing Company. The two never seemed to have a cross word with one another. They could always be heard encouraging each other. They saw themselves as being on the same team. Trying to make a difference for Jesus Christ.
“Mr. Moore, how are you? “
“Chase, my boy, I am ecstatic!” His baritone echoed through the phone.
“Really? And why is that?” He chuckled.
“I just heard about your dropping Stephanie Radar. I am so proud of you. And, your father would be, too. Trust me, I know.”
“Thank you, sir. Those words mean a lot to me. You have no idea. It was difficult to do. I must admit, Satan certainly tempted me with that one. But, I could hear my father’s wisdom ringing in my ears. I knew exactly what he would do. Since I still run this business by the Biblical principles he founded it upon, there really was no decision to make.”
“Good for you! I’ve been there. I know what you’re going through. I’ve lost two of my best authors in the last week myself. But, in my opinion, they aren’t the best anymore. The principles your father and I established from the beginning still stand. If I can’t honor God and uphold His principles, then I’ll find another line of work.”
“No wonder you and my dad were such good friends. You sound just like him.”
Mr. Moore laughed heartily. “Guilty. I miss him so much, but he left his business in good hands. You have proven that this week. Keep it up.”
“Mr. Moore, sir, can I ask you a question?”
“Of course, son, anything.”
“How do you keep it up? I mean, you have a family, right?”
“Sure do. Just married off the second of three daughters. My baby starts college soon.” Pride radiated in his tone. “God has truly blessed me.” His voice broke, and he cleared his throat. “Honestly, Chase, there’s been crazy times, but you keep your priorities straight and God will honor that.”
“Yes, sir.”
“God first, then family, then the work He calls you to do. Not always easy, but the Good Lord will lead you.”
“How did you know...that your wife was...the one?”
Mr. Moore chuckled. “I couldn’t think of anything else after the first time I met her at our church youth group.”
“Yeah, I’m there.”
“You’ll know, son.”
“Thanks.”
As Chase hung up the phone, he gave God a smile. The Lord knew he needed encouragement, and there it was.
Miss Olivia’s book was almost complete. The debut had been set. Now, all Chase needed to do was to set his own plan into action. He just had to get Alex here. He would make it next to impossible to say no to his invitation this time.