Influences

It seemed like a good idea at the time, but as Jeff Martinson accepted a prize for guessing
the first road closure of the evening, footage of the responsible accident played across the
TV. A trapped family ruined it for lightening things up. The boss wasn't amused by his
son's antics.
The accident scene was difficult to work, especially for Officer Rodriguez, a rookie on
his first patrol. It was one of many difficulties he'd face that night, finishing his shift
with desk duty and mandated counseling, for which he chose a retired pastor serving
as a police chaplain.
Months later Jeff began helping a little girl from the accident but didn't make the
connection. It went against his nature to volunteer to help without reward, but painful
memories betrayed him not once, but three times. At least the elderly pastor he met only
needed a ride now and then.
Pastor Boston discovered his involvement wasn't the only coincidence connecting his
helper and his client. Can Jeff get back in his father's good graces while helping these
people? What got Rodriguez in trouble? Why does Rodriguez find Jeff's face so
familiar? What happened to both men that New Year's Eve