Carmen
A Story of Inconceivable Grace
by
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“Are you worried about something, my boy?” Giorgia asked her grandson. “No, I’m alright, Nonna,” Steve assured. He was not to discuss the case with anybody just yet. Carmen wanted to quickly interject another subject but was afraid she’d give herself away. Her throat was so dry, she couldn’t speak anyway. “Did Tina go to sleep easily?” Giorgia asked Carmen. “Oh, yes. Fine.” Carmen answered. Her mind thought how peacefully Tina was sleeping, considering the last twenty-four hours. To avoid the topic of conversation put on her, she complimented Giorgia on the dinner. Steve, in the habit of asking questions, proceeded to ask Mrs. Benetzi. “I don’t note a New Yorker accent, have you been here long, Mrs. Benetzi?” Carmen had to think up an answer quickly, a good answer, without giving herself away. “I’m originally from Kansas, but I came here for a visit five years ago, and haven’t gone back home since. My parents didn’t even meet my husband, nor have they met their granddaughter.” she lied. “So, do you think you’ll go back to Kansas, now?” Giorgia asked. Carmen was, again, hesitant. “Forgive me for being so personal.” Giorgia soothed, knowing it hadn’t been long since the girl had lost her husband. False tears gathered in Carmen’s eyes, though they were somewhat real. “I’m not sure of my plans yet. It all happened so suddenly.” “Of course, my dear. Take all the time you need. You may stay here while you think out the best plan for you and your daughter.” Carmen’s glance shifted to Steve, whose eyes were upon her. His glance showed admiration for this brave woman. He cleared his throat as he realized he was staring at her all the while. “Excuse me, I have a case I must put some effort into tonight.” Steve stood. “Goodbye, Nonna.” Steve pecked Giorgia’s cheek. “Goodbye, Stevie, stay safe, my boy. See you at church, tomorrow?” “Sorry, Nonna. Don’t think I can this weekend. This case is important, it was lucky for me I could get away this long.” Steve patted her shoulder. “I will see you to the door, Steve.” Carmen set her coffee cup down and stood.
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About the Book
Through this book is weaved a story of love and redemption through harrowing disaster. Falling in love is easy, but learning how to cope with the tragic effects, isn’t. When Carmen is tired of driving on a one-way street, she takes an unexpected turn. Grasping the glorious idea of freedom with both hands, Carmen realizes that danger nips at her heels. With a pierced and tired heart, Carmen longs for rest from the mistakes she has made. She has yet to realize that there could be a Light at the end of her smoky alley.
“Set against a dramatic, larger-than-life, and sometimes sinister backdrop of 1950s New York, this quick-moving novella artfully transforms a classic noir into a faith-filled story of God’s redemption and grace.” -Jacie Ziegelbein
About the Author
Dree Christiano loves old movies and old music. Always ready for exciting adventures, her heart is happiest with her computer on her lap or with a book in her hands. She enjoys reading about WWII history and is currently working on a second novel, a fictional drama based around that time period.