THE TRUE LOVE SERIES BOX SET: A Christian Romance

by Duncan, Juliette

  “Hey Jayden, I was impressed with the way you handled Bindy tonight. Better than me with Sparky.” She let out a small laugh as he shot her a suspicious look, but when she stopped and patted Bindy, a faint smile showed on his face.

  “What do you say to the lady, Jayden?”

  Jayden rolled his eyes. “Thank you.” He glanced up but lowered his gaze quickly.

  Tessa chuckled, but wondered why teenagers had to be so difficult.

  When they reached the car park, Ben slowed. “Why don’t you take both dogs for a short walk, Jayden?” He turned to her. “As long as that’s okay with you?”

  Her heart quickened as his eyes met hers. What was happening? What was the look she’d seen? Had she really seen something, or was it just her overactive imagination? Or was it just wishful thinking? Take a grip, Tessa. You’ve only just met the man, and he has a teenage son. Don’t even go there. “Yes, that’s fine.” She forced herself to respond normally, trying not to let any of her crazy thoughts show in her voice.

  “I'll admit I wasn't that keen about getting a pet,” he said quietly once Jayden had moved out of hearing range. “Seems to be helping, though. With him.” Ben nodded towards his son and let out a heavy sigh.

  “Teenagers aren't the easiest of people. I remember what I was like. And my brother Elliott, he was even worse.” Tessa shoved her hands into her pockets and let out a small laugh. Her heart beat so loudly she hoped he couldn’t hear it.

  “Don’t I know. My counsellor suggested we get a dog. Thought it might help improve our…” He paused, as if searching for the right word. “Relationship.”

  “You’re getting counselling?” Tessa gritted her teeth and berated herself for yet again speaking before thinking. Why did I ask that? Stupid. Stupid.

  She held her breath. He took a long time to answer, his shoulders drooping as he let out a resigned sigh.

  “Yes. Just trying to work through some personal issues.”

  Don’t ask. Don’t ask… She steeled herself and considered her reply. “Dogs can be miracle workers. Sparky’s helped improve my outlook on life already, and I've only had him a couple of weeks.” That’s better. Keep it neutral.

  He leaned on his car, a fancy looking thing, and looked wistfully at Jayden. If only he’d smile. Maybe Steph was right and he is depressed. She felt like giving him a big hug and telling him it was all right, but that certainly would be acting rashly. She barely knew the man.

  “I think I’d say the same for Jayden. We’ve only had Bindy a couple of days, but she seems to have made a real difference to him already.”

  “That’s wonderful.” Her pulse quickened as he turned his gaze towards her. Was it her imagination again, or was there a connection between them? She held his gaze for a moment longer before lowering her eyes. She could really embarrass herself if she wasn’t careful.

  “Come on, Jayden. Time to go.” Ben’s deep voice carried easily. He unlocked the car and held the back door open. Jayden placed Bindy on the back seat before slumping into the front passenger seat and turning on the radio.

  “It’s been nice meeting you, Tess. I’ll look forward to seeing you next week.” Ben held out his hand.

  She didn’t hesitate. The touch of his warm skin on hers sent tingles through her body. “I’ll look forward to it too.”

  She smiled all the way home. When Stephanie arrived home from work, Tessa couldn't stop gushing about Ben Williams.

  “We must be talking about a different person. The Ben Williams I know doesn’t say more than two words.”

  Chapter 5

  Tessa fell asleep with Ben on her mind. When she woke, he was still on it. It was late morning, and since no surgeries were scheduled at the vet clinic, she had no need to go into work until after lunch. Stephanie had already left for college.

  Had something really happened last night or had she just imagined it? He was an attractive man, no doubt about it, and her heart had pounded like that of a star-struck schoolgirl the entire time she’d been near him. He was older than any man she’d dated. Maybe that was it. He was definitely more mature than Michael, but that wouldn’t be hard. Ben seemed to be a gentleman, not a fun loving, irresponsible twenty something.

  She sat with a start and blinked. What was she thinking? It was silly. She knew nothing about the man. He probably wasn’t even a believer. She hung her head and closed her eyes, but the image of him leaning against his car wouldn’t leave her mind.

  Finally, she reached for the well-worn, dog-eared Bible her mother had given her when she turned fifteen. She normally used a Bible reading plan, but today she opened to a random place and read the first verses her eyes settled on, verses from Psalm 119: “Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart—they do no wrong but follow his ways. You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed. Oh that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees!”

  She allowed the words to sink into her heart and mind, and after a short while bowed her head. “Dear God, I’m sorry for acting so immaturely last night. I want to follow You with all my heart. You know that.” Clasping her hands together, she took a slow, deep breath as she rested in God’s presence. Having committed her life to God when young, she knew the importance of seeking His guidance and wisdom. She wanted to do what was right in His sight, but so often she made rash decisions and was sure she let Him down. “Lord, I can’t help wondering if You brought Ben and me together, or if it was just a coincidence? Will You give me direction? Until then, I promise I won’t give him another thought. Thank you. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

  * * *

  Ben stepped into the glass-enclosed elevator of the Elizabeth Macarthur building and waited for the lift to take him from the lobby to the fourth floor. Usually he was impatient, but not today. His mind was on Tessa Scott. He’d hardly stopped thinking about her alluring smile and happy demeanour since meeting her at the puppy training class. The way her light brown hair bounced on her shoulders and her cornflower blue eyes always seemed to be smiling were etched on his mind. Not since Kathryn had left had he felt this way about another woman. Maybe at last he was moving on.

  The elevator doors opened. He exited and took a left turn down the hallway to the counsellor's office. The nameplate on the office door read Stephanie J. Trejo, Interim Social Worker. When he knocked, her familiar friendly voice called for him to enter.

  “Mr. Williams. How are you?” Stephanie stood and shook his hand.

  He grinned sheepishly. “I’m good, thanks.”

  Her eyes widened. “That’s a first. But I have to say I’m pleased to hear it.” She directed him to the armchair opposite her desk. “What’s brought on the change?” She quickly shifted some magazines off the other armchair and took a seat.

  “I took your suggestion and bought a dog.” He paused, studying the young woman before him. He was seeing her because his doctor had suggested he talk to someone about his breakup and had referred him to this centre. Never in his wildest dreams had he thought he’d be assigned to a young intern, and a female at that.

  He didn’t enjoy the sessions and hadn’t really warmed to her. How could a young woman like her be able to offer him any advice? She’d probably never had any real problems herself, and wouldn’t have a clue about what he’d been through or was still going through. He’d been tempted to ask for someone else, and maybe he would, although she seemed professional enough. For now, he’d let her continue with explaining the various stages of grief she believed he was going through, but if he had to open up with someone, an older male would be preferable. Someone who’d seen a bit more of life. But maybe he wouldn’t need to come much longer… Strange how comfortable he’d felt last night talking with Tessa. But that was different. She wasn’t his counsellor.

  Stephanie’s face lit up. “A dog! That’s great! What did you get?”

  “A Scottish Terrier. Pure bred.”

  “What does your son think?”

  “He loves her
. It’s only been a few days, but instead of watching television after school, he’s coming home and playing with her. If I get home early enough, we go to the park and walk her.”

  “Seems like having a dog is paying off already. And if you’re going to the park with your son, that’s progress. But what about you? How are you feeling?”

  Ben steadied his gaze on the woman. Normally he’d guard his feelings, but something had happened last night when he’d met Tessa and he had a real desire to share it with someone. But talking about it would make it real. Was he ready to take the step from fantasy to reality? He’d probably got it all wrong but steeled himself anyway and took a deep breath. “I’m good. We took Bindy to her first training class last night.”

  “Really? And how did that go?”

  “It was… good. I think Jayden enjoyed it too.”

  “Was that a smile?”

  He averted his gaze and tried to remove the grin he knew was inching up his face. “Maybe.”

  “Come on, Mr. Williams. What happened at dog training?”

  He let out a small chuckle and shook his head. What am I doing? I probably read too much into Tessa’s friendliness. Got it all wrong. “Nothing. The trainer’s very good, and Jayden can't wait to go back. That’s a real plus.”

  “There’s more to it than that, I’m sure. Come on, tell me.” Leaning back in her chair, Stephanie tapped her pencil as she studied him.

  He let out another chuckle. He couldn’t believe it. How did I get myself into this? He ran his hand through his hair and met her gaze. Although the air conditioning was on and the room’s temperature was pleasant, his palms were clammy. “I guess I may as well tell you.” He shrugged defensively, all the while holding her gaze. “I got talking to a young lady, that’s all. She was very friendly—she even spoke with Jayden.”

  “I guess that explains why you're in a better mood today. Do you plan on asking her out?”

  “Come on, I only just met her.” But as stupid as it sounded, the thought hadn’t left his mind. But he wasn’t telling her that. He shifted in the chair and crossed his arms. “No. I don't. Not yet, anyway.”

  “It sounds promising, though.” Stephanie smiled, an expression he couldn’t pick flashing across her face.

  Ben shrugged without enthusiasm, trying to play down how he really felt. “We’ll see. We only just met. And besides, I don’t know if I want to get involved with anyone after how things ended with Kathryn.” And that was the truth. Kathryn’s sudden leaving more than a year and a half ago had thrown him so much he felt anything but confident when it came to relationships.

  Stephanie straightened, her face becoming serious. “I can understand that, but now you’re divorced, it might do you good to start dating again.”

  Ben stared out the window. Dating? Was he ready for that? He fingered the faint indentation where his wedding band had once sat. He still thought of Kathryn. Her leaving had come as a shock—she’d never told him she was unhappy. How had he missed the signs? He’d been working long hours and maybe hadn’t paid her enough attention, but he still couldn’t understand how she could have walked out on Jayden like she did. What kind of mother could do that to her child? What had they done so wrong to make her leave? A dull ache settled in his chest. No, he wasn’t ready to date again. What was he thinking?

  Stephanie studied him, awaiting his response.

  He stood slowly and walked to the window, placing his hands on the ledge. Below, the street bustled with people either going to or coming back from their lunch break. That’s where he needed to be. Work. Where he was busy and could keep his mind active and off Kathryn. And Tessa.

  No, he needed to let go of her, not that there was anything to let go of. He wasn’t ready to even think about dating. Maybe he never would be. He turned and picked up his briefcase. “No, I don’t think I can. I need to get back to work, Ms. Trejo. Thanks for your time.”

  * * *

  Stephanie rested her elbows on her desk and held her head in her hands. She’d gotten so close, but not close enough. She let out a frustrated sigh. Would Ben ever trust her enough to open up to her? She glanced at her watch. Gwen was due in twenty minutes. Just enough time to snatch a quick bite to eat and a coffee and review her notes from their previous session.

  Gwen was another one causing her grief. It didn’t seem to make any difference what she said, Gwen was still determined to have her double mastectomy. Seemed she was more concerned about an illness she might never get than saving her marriage. Her husband had stopped coming with her, and according to Gwen, was already making plans to move out.

  How could someone who said they trusted God be so self-absorbed and uncaring about their marriage? But then again, her husband didn’t seem willing to understand Gwen’s fears, either. They’d hit a brick wall and neither was willing to budge. Stephanie shook her head. Some marriages seemed such hard work. If only Gwen and her husband were prepared to really listen to each other, but both were as stubborn as the other. Stephanie had just about given up with them, but she knew that wasn’t good enough. She prayed that today there might be a breakthrough of some kind.

  She’d just finished her sandwich and coffee when Gwen called. She was sorry for the late notice, but she wasn’t going to make it today. In fact, she wouldn’t be coming back. Her operation was booked for the following week, and her husband had already moved out.

  “Oh, Gwen, I’m so sorry to hear that. Is there… is there anything I can do to help?” Stephanie was almost lost for words. Gwen’s news, although not unexpected, was a shock all the same.

  “No, I don’t think so. I got a cancellation, and now it’s happening, Tom just walked out. I’m almost glad, as he’s hardly said a word to me for weeks. I’ll just be relieved to have it done.” Gwen’s voice caught in her throat.

  “You must be nervous, and a little sad. Please remember I’m here if you want to talk about it either before or after the operation. And I’ll keep praying for you and Tom. I don’t believe this is the end for you. Maybe he just needs time to get used to it.”

  “Thank you, Stephanie, I’ll keep it in mind.”

  Stephanie grimaced. No you won’t… you’re just saying that.

  After the phone call ended, Stephanie tried to finish Gwen’s case study report, but her feeling of failure didn’t help one little bit and she struggled to write more than a couple of paragraphs. She sighed and slipped the file into her briefcase. Another one to take home.

  Chapter 6

  As she did most Sunday mornings, Tessa sat in the passenger seat beside Stephanie on the way to church. She didn’t feel like talking, so she just sat there and gazed out the window.

  Despite returning to work and having Sparky welcome her home every night with more kisses than she could cope with, she still couldn’t shake the dullness that weighed her down most days and nights. Although she sought God’s guidance and direction every day, her heart was heavy and she struggled to remain positive. The joy of the Lord had most definitely eluded her. She was drifting, and she didn’t like it.

  The truth was, her weekends had become boring without Michael. They’d always done exciting and fun things on their days off, but now, everything was mundane. Sparky provided the only brightness in her life. Her heart warmed a little as she pictured him running around with the other dogs the previous afternoon at the off-leash area. He’d had such fun! But while she’d been there, her focus had been drawn to the happy couples riding along the cycle path beside the river, and memories of the times she and Michael had ridden along those same paths made her melancholy again. Maybe she should go for a ride, but riding on her own didn’t appeal. Stephanie wouldn’t come, so no use asking her. Maybe Elliott. But even if he agreed, it wouldn’t be the same.

  “Hey, what’s up?” Stephanie cast her a concerned look as she brought the car to a stop at a red light. “You’re very quiet. Is everything okay?”

  Tessa shrugged and spoke quietly as she shifted her gaze to the front and pick
ed at her nails. “Yes, I’m fine. Just a little down, that’s all.”

  “Some good old-fashioned worship should do us both good.”

  “You’re probably right.” She turned her head and smiled fondly at her friend. Despite Steph’s outward cheeriness, Tessa knew that work was causing her a great deal of stress and most nights she’d come home and spend hours poring over her cases. She was even wondering if she’d chosen the right career path and whether she’d finish her course.

  They arrived early as it was Stephanie’s week to play the organ. Tessa chatted with several of the older church members as well as her parents while she waited for the service to begin. Although she loved the older members dearly, many of whom she’d known since she was a little girl, occasionally she went to one of the larger churches where the congregation on average was younger. But whenever she’d seriously considered a permanent change, pangs of guilt hit her. Gracepointe was home.

  Here she’d learned about Jesus and the Bible, and the Sunday-school classes she’d attended had paved the way for her eventual decision to give her heart and life to Christ. Yes, Gracepointe was home, and now as she stood to sing How Great Is Our God with the rest of the congregation, her soul lifted, and she reaffirmed her commitment to follow Christ. She also apologised again to God for being so down and not trusting Him enough.

  After the service was over, she had a cup of tea and chatted again with her parents and several other members of the church about this and that. She then settled back down in the sanctuary to wait for Stephanie who was accompanying the choir as they practiced for an upcoming concert.

  As she sat in an empty pew listening to the sweet sounds coming from the choir, Tessa’s mind drifted to Ben. Despite her promise to God not to think of him, she couldn’t help it. She’d struggled to keep her thoughts off him and looked forward to seeing him and Jayden again at their next puppy training class.