When Crickets Cry: a Novel of the Heart

Reese thinks back to an Independence Day weekend, when Emma was getting sicker: “I was keeping her alive with almost daily intravenous injections of dopamine—sort of an adrenaline kick for the heart” (159). Although Emma was next in line on the transplant list, she passed up an available donor heart to save one of Reese’s other patients. 

Cindy calls Reese and says, “I’ve got a business proposition for you” (165). Her family owns 50 acres of a pecan farm, and she wants to know if he and Charlie want to reclaim the antique wood from an old barn on the property, sell it, and split the money with her. Seeing another way to help Cindy and Annie, Reese agrees.

Reese and Charlie head to The Well for their usual burger when Charlie tells Reese that he plans to pick up Cindy and Annie on the way. Before their meal, Charlie prays: “You’re the only one here who knows what You’re doing, so we ask that You come hang out with us a bit. Be the guest of honor at this table.