a face in the crowd

There was such chatter after the service, Asa couldn't quite believe it. How could there be so much laughter?

It wasn't a wake, even if Asa was sure Amanda's father would prefer one. He was drinking. There was his family who strictly disapproved of any sort of alcohol. Soon enough Will and Jacob cornered him about some missionary trip they were organizing.

"We always need you. It would do you some good." They sounded business as usual. So happy and doing God's will. It did cheer Asa a little to know how well they were doing. Neither were hurting for anything.  It was amazing, but he shook his head, no. He would not go.

"I have a job here." He sighed. Besides, this was his home. He wasn't going anywhere. After all, he'd been making payments on this place for almost a year now even if it were in Amanda's name. Of course, when he instantly thought of her, he was heavy with grief.

Syd, Ellie and Rox boxed Amanda's things. He really wasn't in a rush to send it to charity just yet, but he'd make himself sick too if  were around. He was really not sure what to do. But he couldn't leave.

Just then Rosie hung on to him tight around the leg before emotions could get the best of him.

"I'm coming to stay with you." She informed him.

Asa caught a tickle in his throat. He looked up to see Kyle with a plate of sweets, all of Rosie's favorites.

"It'll be OK." Kyle nodded. "Max said he'd watch after her."

Asa nodded. He guessed it would be all right. Max was like a shining beacon. He'd really stepped up. But then Asa noticed, Derrick was nowhere in sight. He hadn't spoken to him in days. He guessed. Hopefully, Max knew where he was, but he knew Amanda's Dad hadn't spoke of Derrick, either.

Asa reached for his phone but found his wallet instead. He opened it. There was the Target gift card. Christmas. He looked at Rosie. Asa was certain plenty around her were going to do the best they could for her, this holiday. He tucked the gift card back in his wallet. There was only one person he could think of that probably needed the gift card more.