Read Online Debbie Macomber by Where Angels Go - Free Book Online

upward and spoke in deep, resounding tones. “This is our opportunity to prove ourselves once and for all to Gabriel and—” she paused, seemingly for effect “—to God.”
    â€œGabriel and God,” Mercy and Goodness dutifully repeated, their eyes meeting.
    â€œIt is our task,” Shirley continued righteously, “no, our duty, to teach these humans a lesson from our heavenly Father before we answer their prayer requests.”
    â€œOur duty,” Mercy and Goodness echoed.
    At that point, Shirley deigned to actually face them. “You’ve got that look,” she said.
    â€œWhat look?” Mercy demanded.
    â€œThe guilty look that tells me you did something you shouldn’t have.”
    â€œI haven’t,” Mercy insisted. “Not that it’s any of your business.”
    â€œI’m working with Beth Fischer,” Goodness said, getting in between the other two. “This isn’t an easy assignment. I could use some advice.”
    â€œWhat’s the problem?” Shirley’s tone was, in Mercy’s opinion, more than a bit condescending.
    Goodness frowned meaningfully before she explained. “It appears that Beth’s confidence in her ability to choose a life partner has been badly shaken. She doesn’t trust her heart.”
    â€œWhy is that?” Shirley asked.
    â€œI don’t know for sure. I’ve been watching and studying Beth, and she’s a wonderful woman. It’s just that…that…” She hesitated. “It’s just that I’m afraid she’s still in love with her ex-husband. How am I supposed to help her get over him and involved with someone else in only one week? It’s impossible. ”
    Mercy could understand her friend’s dilemma. “Didn’t you tell me her ex has remarried?”
    â€œYes.”
    â€œThen you need to teach her to let go,” Shirley said unequivocally. “This happens all the time. It’s been almost ten years and she has to move on.”
    â€œI agree, but it’s going to be difficult to convince Beth of that. Thanks for the advice, though.” To Mercy’s ear, Goodness sounded a little—just a little—sarcastic.
    â€œI’ll help you,” Shirley said.
    â€œNo,” Goodness returned immediately. “I appreciate the offer, but I can handle Beth on my own. She’ll be in Leavenworth this weekend.”
    â€œReally?” Shirley moved her hand to her chin in a thoughtful gesture.
    â€œHer friend Heidi invited her to come here for the Christmas festivities. No town does it better than Leavenworth—or so I’ve heard.”
    â€œWhat about your assignment?” Mercy asked, directing the question to Shirley.
    For the first time, the other angel seemed unsettled. “Yes, well, my assignment is deceptively simple—on the outside.”
    â€œI don’t believe you mentioned whose request you’ve been sent to answer.”
    â€œIt’s a boy named Carter,” Shirley mumbled. “He wants a dog for Christmas.”
    Mercy swallowed a protest. She was dealing with a dying old man who had pressing concerns for his family. Goodness had to guide a young woman with a broken heart. And all Shirley had to do was find a little boy a dog! Talk about easy! Mercy could manage that with one wing tied behind her back.
    â€œAs I explained, my assignment is deceptively simple, but—”
    â€œYes, deceptively.” Mercy looked at Goodness. “Listen, I’d love to stay and chat awhile, but I’ve got work to do.”
    â€œMe, too,” Goodness said.
    â€œYes, well, Carter and his sister are in school, so I’ve got a few minutes to spare,” Shirley informed her friends.
    â€œI’m sure you do,” Mercy said and promptly disappeared. Goodness followed, leaving Shirley sitting alone in the grocery foyer.
    A minute later, Mercy returned, hovering behind