Triumphant Love: A Christian Romance (The True Love Series Book 4)

by Juliette Duncan

  Jayden turned and faced Dad. Tears brimmed in his eyes and his chest burned. “Yes, I have.” He swallowed hard.

  “Tessa and I never stopped praying for you.”

  “I know. Thank you.” Jayden sniffed and swallowed again before exhaling slowly. “I’ve decided to come home, Dad.” Tears streamed down his cheeks.

  Dad’s eyes widened before he threw his arms around Jayden. “That’s the best news you could have given me.”

  Jayden clung to Dad. “I only decided last night.” He struggled to speak. “I told Angie…” He pushed down the sobs rising in his throat. He straightened, and tried to control his breathing. “I told her it was time for me to go home, that it was the right thing to do. Last night when Pastor Graham was speaking, I got this sense that I needed to let her go, and that God wanted me back home with you and Tessa.”

  “You don’t know how much that means to me. When I decided to come, I had no idea what the outcome would be, but I didn’t expect you to have already decided. That is such a bonus. I didn’t want to have to convince you. It’s so much better that you’ve already decided. But what about your mother? What’s going to happen with her?”

  “The Morgan’s have said they’ll look after her. They’re such kind people, Dad. They’re amazing, in fact. You should stay for a few days and get to know them.”

  “I’d like that.” Dad gave him a warm smile.

  “But now we should have lunch. I’m starving.”

  “That hasn’t changed.” Dad let out a small chuckle.

  “No, that hasn’t changed.”

  Ben walked back to the main building with Jayden. He wasn’t that hungry, but Jayden obviously was. Ben couldn’t get over how much he’d grown in just over a year. When Jayden had left, he was just a boy; now he was a young man. And what a young man he’d become. Ben’s heart swelled with pride as he glanced at his son.

  Lunch was finished, but the cook had kept meals aside for them. They took their plates and sat at a table.

  “When were you thinking of coming home?” Ben asked.

  Jayden finished his mouthful and lifted his gaze. “Sometime next week.”

  Ben’s eyes widened. “So soon?”

  Jayden nodded. “I might change my mind if I wait.”

  “Angie seems nice, Jayden.”

  The corners of Jayden’s mouth lifted. “Yes, the best.”

  Ben leaned back in his chair and tried to hide the grin forming on his face. His son was in love! How could that have happened? He was so young, but he’d been through so much, and Angie had been there for him when he needed someone to love him. Ben should be grateful it had been her, someone who loved the Lord deeply and who really cared for him, and not that girl from Austin. God had truly been looking after him.

  Ben sat forward and rested his arms on the table. “You’re doing a very mature thing, Jayden. You’re only young, and you don’t know what’s ahead of you, but you and Angie can always remain as friends.”

  Jayden winced. It obviously wasn’t what he wanted, which was perfectly understandable, but they’d both survive. Life would go on, and in time they’d meet other people.

  The door swung open and Robert and Angie walked towards them. Robert had his arm around her shoulders. Angie’s eyes were red and she dabbed a tissue to her nose as they reached the table.

  Robert raised his eyebrows. “All okay?”

  Ben glanced at Jayden and his heart warmed. Yes, everything was okay. In fact, it was more than okay—it was wonderful. He rubbed Jayden’s back and nodded.

  Dad stayed for the remainder of camp and spent time with Jayden, Angie and Mr. Morgan. He sat towards the back with Mr. Morgan during the praise and worship sessions, a broad smile planted on his face. Occasionally Jayden lifted his head and met Dad’s gaze. Each time, he couldn’t stop the grin that spread warmth through his body. Dad was proud of him, and that made the world of difference. No longer did Jayden fear being a disappointment. Dad loved him unconditionally, just like God did. If only he’d realized that a year ago. But if he had, his and Angie’s paths might not have crossed, and he would have missed meeting the most beautiful girl in the world. Even if she could now only be his friend.

  Chapter 22

  The next few days passed all too quickly. Dad helped Jayden pack up his apartment, went with him when he said good-bye to Charmian and her family, and sat outside while he and Mr. Morgan visited Mom again.

  “Are you sure you won’t come in, Dad?” Jayden asked as he closed the car door.

  Dad shook his head. “No, Jayden, you go. Just tell her I forgive her.”

  Jayden’s shoulders sagged. Maybe it was for the best. Mom might not cope with seeing Dad after all this time, and she still wasn’t well. “Okay, we won’t be long.”

  “Take as long as you need.”

  Jayden gave him a grateful smile. Dad had changed. He seemed more patient, more caring, more understanding. Jayden still had trouble picturing him building a school playground in Ecuador, but it had obviously done him good. He lifted his hand in a wave and followed Mr. Morgan inside.

  Jayden steeled himself as Mr. Morgan signed them in. Mom wasn’t going to be happy about him leaving. He really hoped she wouldn’t cause a scene.

  The main area where she’d been last time they’d visited was empty. Magazines, empty coffee mugs, and half-finished board games sat on the tables. The nurse told them Mom was in a relaxation class, but it should be finished any minute. Mr. Morgan suggested they wait in the courtyard.

  Since Dad had arrived, Jayden hadn’t talked to Mr Morgan on his own. Sitting opposite him now, Jayden felt a tinge of sadness sweep though him. He’d developed a high regard for this man, and he’d miss him when he and Dad flew out tomorrow.

  “I’m glad it all worked out, son.”

  Jayden let out a slow breath. “Yes. But there’s still the little problem of me getting through Security.”

  “You’ll be fine. At least you have your dad with you.”

  Jayden nodded. How scary it would have been if he’d had to go through on his own.

  “Do you forgive me for calling your dad?”

  Jayden laughed. “What do you think?”

  “I think that’s a yes.” Mr. Morgan let out a chuckle as a door opened and a group of patients walked along the corridor.

  Jayden turned his attention to the group. Would Mom remember to call him by his full name? But it didn’t really matter. He felt bad he’d made a fuss about it now.

  Mom was at the back of the group. She was busy talking with Betty and didn’t notice him and Mr. Morgan as she walked past. Mr. Morgan stood and caught up with her, tapping her lightly on the back.

  She stopped and turned. Her face brightened. “Jayden! You’ve come back!” Her over-the-top-smile had returned, and Jayden laughed. She flew into the courtyard and wrapped her arms around him, almost knocking him over.

  “Good to see you, Mom.” He beamed a smile at her. It really was good to see her back to normal. And she’d remembered his name!

  “Sit and talk with me.” She pulled him to a bench seat and sat with her legs crossed, leaning forward. Her eyes had cleared and some color had returned to her face. Even her hair had been brushed and washed and had a shine to it. She peered into his eyes. “They’re letting me out soon, Jayden. I can come live with you then.”

  Jayden gulped. He’d been dreading breaking the news to her. “Remember last time I said I might be going home because I’m illegal?”

  Mom’s body stiffened.

  “I’m leaving tomorrow, Mom.”

  She grabbed his hand. “No, Jay, you can’t. Please don’t go.”

  “I have to, Mom. I’m sorry.”

  Mr. Morgan stepped forward. “We’ll look after you, Kathryn. There’s a lovely place not far out of town where you can stay until you’re fully well. And Beth and I will be here for you.”

  Her eyes filled with tears. “I don’t know why you’d bother, but thank you.” Her gaze shifted ba
ck to Jayden. “But Jay, are you sure you can’t stay?”

  Jayden squeezed her hand. “Yes, Mom, I have to go. But come home when you’re better. I’ll be there for you.”

  “Your dad won’t like that.”

  “Dad’s okay. He said to tell you he’s forgiven you.”

  A wistful expression grew on her face. “He’s a good man, your dad.” Tears spilled from her eyes. “I treated you both badly.”

  “It’s okay, Mom.” Jayden swallowed hard. “We’ve both forgiven you.”

  “Why would you do that, Jay? I don’t deserve it.”

  “Because that’s what God expects of us, Mom.”

  Mom sniffed and brushed her face with her hand. Her eyes flickered before she lifted her gaze. “Do you think He’d ever forgive me?”

  Jayden smiled at her, pushing back tears of his own. “Of course He will, Mom. You just have to ask Him.”

  She inhaled slowly. “I’ll give it some thought.”

  “You do that, Mom. I’ll be praying for you every day.” Leaning forward, he wrapped his arms around her. “I love you, Mom.”

  “I love you too, Jayden. Look after yourself.” She wiped her eyes.

  Jayden sniffed. “I will, Mom. Good-bye.” He kissed her cheek and stood. He had to leave so she wouldn’t see the tears streaming down his face.

  “That was a hard thing to do, son.” Mr. Morgan placed his hand lightly on Jayden’s shoulder.

  Jayden nodded, not trusting himself to speak.

  “She’s still got a long way to go, Jayden, but the Rehab center is great, and I have every hope she’ll make a full recovery.”

  Jayden nodded again, shivering as he stepped outside.

  Dad crossed the road and joined them. “How did it go, Jayden?”

  “She was upset, but we think she’ll be okay.”

  Dad smiled. “I hope so.”

  From there, Mr. Morgan drove to school and collected Angie and Simon. Jessica had stopped going, but was studying online at home so she could finish her schooling.

  Angie sat in the back with Jayden and Simon. Jayden took her hand and held it tightly. They had less than twenty-four hours left as boyfriend and girlfriend. His heart quickened as she rested her head on his shoulder.

  The Morgan’s had invited all of Angie’s and Jayden’s friends over for a farewell dinner, and even though Jayden would miss them, he would rather have spent his last night with just the family, but he hadn’t had enough courage to tell them that. They were so kind and thoughtful, and he was going to miss them so much.

  When they arrived home, the smell of freshly baked bread and roast turkey greeted them. He was sure going to miss Mrs. Morgan’s baking. But Tessa’s mum’s cooking was pretty good, and maybe Tessa’s cooking had improved. Over the past few days his thoughts had been turning more towards home. Sometimes they filled him with anticipation, like when images of Bindy and Sparky came to mind, but other thoughts filled him with dread, like going back to school. It was a means to an end, but how could he ever settle into the same old boring routine again? Especially if Neil had made new friends. And besides, Neil would be a year ahead now. He sighed. Lord, You’re going to have to help me with this.

  Mrs. Morgan and Jessica were busy in the kitchen with food preparation. Mrs. Morgan raised her head from her chopping board and smiled. “Help yourselves. There’s fresh cookies in the jar, and a ton of pancakes.”

  Simon raced straight for the pancakes. “Thanks, Mom.”

  Angie stepped close to her mom and kissed her cheek. “What can I help with, Mom?”

  Mrs. Morgan patted Angie’s hand. “Nothing. You don’t want to spend your last afternoon with Jayden in the kitchen. Go for a walk or a ride.” Her eyes held a sparkle. What a special woman.

  Angie gave her a cuddle. “As long as you’re sure.”

  Mrs. Morgan gave a wave of her hand. “Yes, I’m sure.”

  Angie didn’t notice the look on Jessica’s face. Jayden’s heart went out to Jess. Not only was she pregnant, but her boyfriend had deserted her. But she couldn’t have asked for better parents. It was going to be hard on her, but Jayden was confident she’d be okay.

  “What would you like to do, Jayden? Walk or ride?”

  She had to ask? Jayden laughed. “Ride, of course.” He turned to Dad and raised an eyebrow. “Like to come?”

  Dad chuckled. “No, you two go. You don’t want me with you.”

  “Thanks, Dad.” Jayden gave him a grateful smile.

  “Be back by five,” Mr. Morgan called out as Jayden and Angie headed towards the door.

  “Five. Sure thing,” Angie called back.

  Jayden checked his watch. An hour. Not long, but long enough.

  Angie grabbed his hand and together they ran to the stables. They quickly saddled and mounted the horses, and within minutes they were galloping towards the mountains.

  Jayden breathed in the clean, crisp air, his eyes taking in the magnificent surroundings for the last time.

  Angie slowed her horse to a trot, as did Jayden. They rode alongside each other for the next ten minutes until they reached the edge of a ridge where they dismounted and tethered the horses to a tree.

  Jayden wrapped his arms around Angie’s waist from behind and rested his head on her shoulder. He drank in not only the vista but the whole experience, etching it into his memory. God’s creation—the snow-capped mountains, the vast sky, the deep valley below, the stars he couldn’t see but were up there, stretching further than he could ever imagine, the birds soaring above, the smell of fresh pine needles, the sound of wind whispering through the trees. Jayden’s spirit quickened as the verses from Colossians 1 that Pastor Graham often referred to came to mind: ‘For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.’ Jayden thought his heart would burst. The God of creation was here with them now, showering His love down on them, filling them with peace and hope for the future.

  No words were needed. Jayden pulled Angie tighter and gave thanks to God for bringing her into his life, and asked Him for strength to let her go.

  The ride back was slower than the ride out, but they made it back right on the dot of five. The next few hours passed in a blur. Their friends arrived. They laughed, they played games, the boys had a game of pool. Dad talked at length with Mr. and Mrs. Morgan. Jayden wondered what they were talking about. Maybe he’d ask him tomorrow on the plane. Mr. Morgan lit a fire, and towards the end of the evening, they all sat around it and played their guitars and sang praise and worship songs in between toasting marshmallows and drinking hot chocolate.

  Jayden’s heart was full to brimming as he lay on his back with Angie beside him and gazed up at the stars. He turned to her and nuzzled her neck. “We could stay here all night. What do you think?”

  She giggled. “We’d freeze, and besides, Dad wouldn’t let me.”

  She was right, it was a silly idea. But maybe they could stay up and watch movies inside. He’d have plenty of time to sleep on the plane, and Angie was taking the day off school.

  Her parents agreed, but only if Simon stayed with them. Simon, their chaperone. Understandable, given Jessica’s situation.

  Angie chose the first two movies—Jayden groaned at her choices but watched them anyway. He chose the next two, and then it was her turn to groan.

  As the first pale light of dawn broke on the horizon, Jayden yawned and turned the television off. Time to shower and do a final pack.

  Chapter 23

  The next morning, Jayden and Angie were the first ones ready. He and Angie set the table for breakfast as everyone else showered and dressed. By six a.m., the whole family plus Jayden and Ben were seated around the large kitchen table giving thanks and praying for the days and weeks ahead.

  By six-thirty a.m. they were headed for Billings International Airport, a
two hour drive away. Angie joined Jayden in Dad’s car, but sat in the back while Jayden sat in the front, and Simon went with his parents. Jessica stayed home.

  Jayden tried to talk, and kept turning around to look at Angie, but with Dad seated beside him, it was awkward. Angie didn’t seem to mind, or maybe chatting the whole way was her method of coping with the situation. She pointed out places of interest to Dad, and laughed at his jokes that weren’t really funny. And all the time, Jayden struggled to ignore the heavy weight lodged in his stomach.

  Before he was ready, they arrived at the airport. As he climbed out of the car, his heart beat in his throat. This was it. He was going home. Dad opened the trunk and lifted out their luggage. Jayden had given his black and green duffle bag to Simon, replacing it with the largest suitcase available to fit in all the things he’d collected during his time in America. He pulled the handle out and placed his carry-on bag and guitar on top of the case, then took Angie’s hand and walked into the terminal.

  Jayden’s hands grew clammy as he and Dad joined the line to check in. Dad had told him it would be fine, he wouldn’t be stopped, but what if he got pulled aside and questioned about why he’d overstayed? Dad told him not to worry—he was a minor, and he was leaving the country with his father. It wouldn’t be a problem. But still, as they approached the counter, Jayden’s hands shook and his heart pounded.

  The tall, attractive woman behind the counter waved them over. Dad handed her their tickets and passports.

  Jayden held his breath as she opened both passports and placed them on the counter. “Enjoy your stay, Mr. Williams?” Her eyes darted between her monitor, Dad and the passports while she typed.

  Dad cleared his throat. “Yes, thanks. Not long enough, though.”

  Jayden’s shoulders slumped. Why did Dad say that? Now she’ll wonder why I stayed so long.

  She finished with Dad’s passport and then placed Jayden’s on top. She studied his passport photo, then her gaze shifted to him.