*EP 6* “Wake up, love.” Matilda brushed Joe's hair with her fingers and kissed his forehead. “It’s past seven.” “I know.” Joe grumbled. “And it’s Sunday too.” She got up. “We’re going to be late for church.” Joe’s eyes flew open. “Church?” he held her hand. “Yes, church.” She faced him. “Why do you sound shocked?” “I can’t even remember the last time I went to church love.” “But you’d remember the day you got back.” She touched his chin and pecked him. “Get up love, we’re going to be late.” “I don’t want to go.” His tone was firm. “Why?” She stood akimbo, her gaze gentle. “Just feels awkward.” He sat up. “What do you mean by awkward love?” she sat by the edge of the bed and faced him. “I don’t know. Can’t really explain it. I think I’d feel out of place.” “But you always have a place in God, love. Always.” “And the church?” “There’s more than enough space for you.” “Not that, love.” He rested his head on the pillow. Matilda giggled. “I get you love. I know what you mean. You feeling out of place isn’t about the church, it’s you love. I’m sure the church would welcome you and not see you like an outcast. Plus they don’t even know you, which means they’d be happy to receive a fine, young, man in their midst.” She leaned closer, smiling. “And if they don’t receive you, we’d go elsewhere.” A breath of laughter escaped his lips. “What time does service begin?” “9 AM.” Like Matilda said, the church received him with so much love and warmth that Joe wondered why he had a misconception about the church. The old women reminded him of his mother as they showered him so much attention. He adjusted his schedule and made sure never missed Sunday service. At first, Joe he had gone to church because Matilda wanted him to, but after his first time, he became devoted. Slowly, he began reading the bible, and practicing the lessons learnt during sermons. He also went about teaching those who cares to hear of the things he learnt. Abel and Martha weren’t left out. And in defeat, they gave in to joining him for a service - Martha had moved in with Abel after Matilda’s marriage. And though Matilda had a hard time accepting that reality, Martha cared less. She had stopped calling him Abel and switched to Dad. Which explained the bond between them – After service, Martha and Abel followed them home for lunch. “We have a big news to share with you both.” Joe started. “We have a news to share too.” Abel winked at Martha. “What news?” Martha eyes shone. “I hope it’s not what I think.” Abel’s laughter echoed as his mouth opened wide. “We would find out.” “Dad. No!” She gripped his hand. “Don’t tell them yet.” “What’s going on?” Matilda and Joe exchanged glances. “Nothing. Dad’s joking.” “Maybe, and maybe not.” Abel said and laughed aloud. “Just ignore him. What’s the good news?” Martha faced them. “We’re having a baby.” Joe’s eye widened in joy. “Josiah! That’s not how we’re supposed to share it.” “You’re joking!” Martha covered her mouth. Abel stared in happiness as Matilda and Joe argued. “I’m going to be a grandfather?” “And I’m going to be an Auntie!” Martha screamed. “Nope! You’re too childish to be referred to that.” He laughed out as Martha’s expression changed. “That’s unfair!” Abel kept laughing till they all joined him. “I am proud of you, sis.” Martha said to Matilda, her eye shining. “Let’s name her now.” Abel said. “Her?” Joe questioned. “Who said it was going be a her?” “It’s definitely going to be a her.” Martha supported. “I am having a baby boy, Dad.” Joe argued. *You wish.” Abel laughed again. “Deborah.” Matilda calmly said. “If it’s a she, I’d call her Deborah.” Deborah came exactly eight months after that discussion, and their joy was unquenchable. Deb got all the attention until Matilda started showing signs of COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). And though Josiah hoped and prayed it wasn’t the case, his fear came to pass as he interpreted the result in his hands. He was about to lose his wife too. ...