THE TRUE LOVE SERIES BOX SET: A Christian Romance

by Duncan, Juliette

  “And you’re loving it!” And with that, she leaned forward and gave him another kiss, this time on his lips. He held his breath as she sashayed awkwardly out of the room towards the steps, silently praying she’d make it safely.

  * * *

  Tessa hung up the phone after making her calls and flopped onto the couch. It was exhausting work talking to so many people one after the other. Luckily, none of them had minded being woken so early. She picked up the mug of coffee Ben had placed beside her almost half an hour ago and took a sip. Ugh! Luke warm. Never mind, she’d make a fresh brew shortly.

  The sky had lightened while she’d been on the phone. A new day was beginning, and what a day it was. It still seemed surreal. Jayden’s news was beyond their wildest dreams, but the fact he had a girlfriend concerned her. Would he be prepared to leave her and come home? Surely he was too young to be serious. But was he? Tessa’s thoughts drifted back to the heady days when she and Michael had started dating. She’d only been seventeen, but even after dating for only a month, she was convinced she couldn’t live without him. Young love. So sweet. So hard to let go. She took another sip of her cold coffee. Jayden would be torn, no doubt about it. Just another thing to pray for.

  Bindy and Sparky sprang up from their mats as Ben reappeared, showered and dressed for the day, and began wagging their tails at him.

  “I thought we could take a walk this morning.” Tessa sat forward and drained her coffee, pulling a face as the cold liquid slid down her throat.

  Ben glanced at his watch. “Guess I could fit a quick one in.”

  “You don’t need to be at work for another two hours!”

  “I know, but I’ll need to be home earlier than normal tonight.”

  “Yes, you do.” She inched herself off the couch and walked towards him, one hand on the small of her back. What would it be like when she was nine months? Everyone told her she already looked like a bean pole with a ball out front, but she actually felt like a cow. Not surprising really, given the amount of chocolate she was eating. She sidled up to him and wrapped her arms around him, all the while trying to ignore the dogs as she gazed into his eyes. “It’d be nice to go for a short walk together, wouldn’t it?”

  Ben placed his hands on her waist and smiled down at her. “Yes, it would.” He lowered his head and kissed her. “Let’s go. Otherwise I’ll be tempted to go back to bed.”

  “Ben! You know what the doctor said!”

  His face fell. “Yes, I do. Come on then, let’s go.” He dropped his hands and stepped into the utility room, returning a second later with the dogs’ leashes.

  Bindy and Sparky sat on command and waited while he clipped their leashes on. He glanced up. “Sure you’re okay to do this?”

  She rolled her eyes. “Yes, Ben. I’m up to this.”

  He raised a brow as his eyes ran down the length of her body. “Going out like that?”

  Tessa glanced down at her attire and laughed. “No. Let me get dressed.” She stepped into the downstairs’ bathroom and quickly changed into her walking clothes, and in less than a minute joined Ben and the dogs outside.

  All day at work, Tessa hummed worship songs. She still had to pinch herself that after almost a year of praying, Jayden had finally called. It truly was unbelievable. She couldn’t wait to tell Harrison. He’d be so happy that Jayden hadn’t waited as long as he had to contact his parents.

  Tessa invited him and his fiancée, Zoe, to the celebration, but they had other plans and had to decline.

  Dinner that night was a happy occasion, ending in a worship and prayer time in Ben and Tessa’s living room. After everyone left, Ben wrapped his arms around her and pulled her tight. He nuzzled her neck, sending tingles down her body.

  “Ben! We need to clean up.”

  “It can wait.”

  She let out a small laugh as she relaxed in his arms.

  Chapter 12

  One day a few weeks later, Jayden was about to leave work when he spotted Mom standing outside on the pavement. Even though a scarf sat high on her neck, almost covering her face, he was sure it was her. He released a huge sigh. Especially now he was a Christian, he knew he should have more compassion, but every time he saw her, he had to work hard to hide his frustration.

  Mom had blinders on as far as Buck was concerned. Everyone else could see what was happening to her. How could she be so stupid? Sighing heavily again, Jayden grabbed his jacket and slipped it on, all the while praying for patience.

  As he stepped outside, a gust of wind caught his cap and blew it off, sending it flying into the air. He rushed after it, retrieved it, and stuck it firmly back on his head. When he turned around, Mom was gone. He looked both ways, and then walked up and down the street, but there was no sign of her. He shrugged and headed towards home. He really should get his bike fixed.

  When he reached his apartment, he grabbed a frozen meal out of the freezer and placed it into the microwave, then picked up his guitar to practice for the weekend. He was playing in a band with Gareth, Angie and Dave at a youth camp this weekend, but still had a lot to learn.

  The microwave dinged. He put his guitar down and pulled out his meal of macaroni and cheese, squeezed almost half a bottle of ketchup over it, and sitting down, flicked the television on. He choked on his first mouthful. A picture of Mom was on the television with a ‘Breaking News’ headline running across the screen. He turned up the volume and leaned forward. The image changed to one of Buck, and of the cottage he and Mom shared, cordoned off with Police tape.

  A female reporter stood outside the cottage, speaking in a serious voice. “The body of William Buckley, commonly known as Buck, was found early this afternoon when one of his co-workers checked on him after Mr. Buckley failed to turn up for work. The Police are currently seeking any information on the whereabouts of his partner, Kathryn Middleton. They would like to question her about the incident.”

  Jayden gulped. Has Mom killed Buck? Surely not. His stomach lurched. He raced for the bathroom and spewed up the contents of his stomach. His chest heaved. How could this have happened? As much as she frustrated him, she was still his mother. Buck must have driven her to it.

  The faint ringing of his cell phone reached Jayden’s ears. He wiped his mouth and sprinted to the kitchen, picking up his phone. Angie. He sucked in a quick breath and answered.

  “Angie… you heard?”

  “Yes. We can’t believe it. Are you okay, Jayden?”

  Jayden slumped against the wall. Was he okay? No, he wasn’t. His stomach felt like it didn’t belong to him, and his head spun like a top. He slithered onto the floor, holding his head in his hand. “No, I’m not okay.”

  “Stay there. Dad said we’ll be there as soon as we can.”

  “Okay.” Jayden could barely speak. He ended the call and put the phone down. A different story was on the television screen. Had he imagined it? No, Angie had called, and she and her dad were on the way over. He straightened. Maybe that’s why Mom disappeared—maybe she’d just wanted to see him once more. If only his cap hadn’t blown off.

  He leaned forward, put his elbows on his knees and his hands over his head. He needed to settle his thoughts before Angie and Mr. Morgan arrived. He drew a slow breath and held it. The noise from the television faded into the background as he began to pray. With no real idea of what to ask for, he just asked God to keep her safe, wherever she might be.

  He looked up when a soft knock sounded on the door a short while later. When he opened it, Angie held out her arms to him. Her eyes blurred with tears as he stepped forward. He didn’t cry. He just clung to her, his body numb.

  “Come and sit.” Angie led him to the sofa. Mr. Morgan followed, placing his hand gently on his back.

  Angie's face was white, and so serious. Jayden had never seen her like this. But they’d never had a murder before.

  “Dad made some calls on our way over, and the Police will be here any minute. They want to talk to you about your mother.” Her voice
was quiet and steady. Controlled.

  Jayden sucked in another breath. He’d have to tell the Police he’d seen her.

  Within seconds another knock, this time louder and firmer, sounded on the door. Mr. Morgan rose and answered it. Two officers in uniform entered, introducing themselves as Officers Wallace and Brown. Officer Wallace, the older of the two, led the conversation as they sat around Jayden’s small kitchen table. Angie sat beside Jayden, holding his hand. Mr. Morgan stood to the side with his arms folded.

  “Jayden, we’re investigating the murder of William Buckley, commonly known as Buck. We believe your mother was living with him?”

  Jayden nodded.

  “Can you tell us the last time you saw your mother?”

  Jayden gulped. He couldn’t lie to them. He looked down before slowly lifting his gaze. “I… I thought I saw her outside the shop this afternoon.” He cleared his throat and straightened. “I work at the Value Village Thrift store in town. She sometimes walks past there and waits for me to finish work, but this afternoon, my cap blew off and I chased it, and when I looked for her, she wasn’t there.”

  “Are you sure it was her?” The officer's gaze was fixed on Jayden.

  Jayden shrugged. “I think it was her, but I can’t be sure.”

  “What was she wearing?”

  He tried to think. All he could really remember was the scarf. “I know she was wearing a scarf. She had it up around her head, and it was some kind of green color. Other than that, I’m not sure. Like I said, I only caught a glimpse of her through the window before she disappeared.”

  Officer Brown made some notes.

  “Before today, when was the last time you saw her?” Officer Wallace asked.

  Jayden sighed, his shoulders slumping. “Just over three weeks ago. On my birthday. She came by and we had breakfast together.”

  “Is it strange you haven’t seen her since then?”

  Jayden tilted his head. He’d been so busy with church activities since then he hadn’t taken that much notice. Mom just seemed to pop in and out of his life whenever it suited her, or to be honest, when she wanted something. Usually money. But yes, it was kind of strange he hadn’t seen her since then. Jayden felt the color drain from his face. Maybe Mom didn’t kill Buck. Maybe she’s been dead all this time.

  “Do you mind if we take a look around?”

  Jayden blinked. “She’s not here, if that’s what you’re thinking. There’s nowhere for her to hide, but go ahead.”

  “Thanks, son. We will.”

  Officer Brown stood and walked around the studio apartment, picking up things here and there before putting them back down, including the photo of Bindy and Sparky Dad had sent him for his birthday.

  “Aren’t you a bit young to be living on your own?” Officer Wallace narrowed his eyes. “And you’re not from around here.”

  Jayden squirmed under the officer's steady gaze. Here goes. He’s going to deport me.

  Mr. Morgan stepped forward and placed his hand on Jayden’s shoulder. “I don’t see what that has to do with anything, Tom.”

  “Just making an observation, Robert, that’s all.” Officer Wallace glanced up and met Mr. Morgan’s gaze.

  “He’s a good boy. Just had a hard time, that’s all.”

  Officer Wallace returned his focus to Jayden. “Do you have any idea where your mother might have gone? Her car’s missing.”

  Jayden shook his head. “I have no idea.”

  The officer stood. “Right, if you hear from her, make sure you contact us immediately.”

  “Yes, sir. I will.”

  “Thanks for your time.” The officers nodded, shook Mr. Morgan’s hand, and then exited the apartment.

  When the door shut behind them, Jayden let out a huge breath and flopped his head onto his folded arms.

  Angie rubbed his back. “Are you okay?”

  He raised his head slowly and turned to face her. Tears clouded his vision before they rolled down his cheeks. She pulled him close and hugged him.

  Mr. Morgan sat down. “We’re here for you, son.”

  Jayden nodded, swallowing hard. He lifted his head off Angie’s shoulder and wiped his face with his sleeve before turning to face Mr. Morgan. “Thank you.”

  “Come home with us. You can’t stay here alone.”

  “What if Mom tries to find me?”

  “We’ll let your neighbors know. You’ll be better off with company.”

  Mr. Morgan was right. How could he stay here on his own? He’d go crazy. “Okay. Thank you.”

  “Grab an overnight bag and we’ll go.”

  It didn’t take Jayden long to throw a few clothes into a bag, and within minutes he was sitting in the front seat of Mr. Morgan’s SUV. Angie sat in the seat behind him. He kept his eyes peeled for his mother or her car, but in the semi darkness, it was difficult to make out anything. Several times he thought he saw her, only to realize it was someone totally different. Besides, he had this horrible tightness in his chest. He had a feeling she was dead.

  * * *

  Kathryn had to pull over—she’d been struggling to stay awake for goodness knows how long. If only she hadn’t taken those tablets. She leaned forward over the steering wheel. Everything was double, and her head spun. She glanced in the rear vision mirror. No one was following. But she needed to keep driving. A sudden chill ran through her body. Buck would be dead by now.

  But it was no good. She couldn’t stay awake. Slowing down, she turned into a small side road and drove a short distance until the car was hidden from the main road. She turned off the engine and slumped in her seat.

  Chapter 13

  Mrs. Morgan rushed out of the house as Mr. Morgan’s SUV came to a halt just outside the shed. When Jayden climbed out of the car, she drew him into a hug, rubbing his back as she pulled him close.

  Jayden squeezed his eyes closed, forcing himself not to break down. If only his mother had been like Mrs. Morgan.

  Moments passed. She finally released him. Glancing at her husband, she placed her arm around Jayden’s shoulders and walked him inside.

  “I’ve made some hot chocolate. Take a seat and I’ll pour you a mug.” She filled two mugs of the hot drink from the saucepan sitting on her large stove and placed them in front of him and Angie. “You must be in shock. Can I get you anything else?”

  Jayden shook his head. “No, I couldn’t eat anything, but thank you.” He tried to smile, but couldn’t.

  “I understand.” Her voice was so quiet and caring as she rubbed his shoulder. “It must be terrible for you.”

  Jayden looked up and met her soft eyes. All he could do was nod. His eyes watered, and all of a sudden, tears spilled down his cheeks. He buried his head in his hands and sobbed as a heavy sadness grabbed his heart. How had his life gotten into such a mess?

  Mrs. Morgan pulled him close and rubbed his back. “There, there, let it out. It’s okay.”

  Jayden didn’t want to cry, but he couldn’t stop. His heart ached with all the hurt he’d carried for so many years. He sobbed into Mrs. Morgan’s chest until he had no more sobs left.

  “It’s okay, cry as much as you want. You don’t need to be embarrassed, son.” Mr. Morgan’s strong, steady voice almost started him off again. Instead, Jayden sucked in a breath, his body shuddering as he fought to gain control. He slowly straightened and wiped his face with a tissue from the box Angie handed him.

  “I’m sorry.” Jayden gulped, his gaze traveling quickly between the three of them. “It all just got to me.” He wiped his eyes again.

  “We’re not surprised, son. You’ve had a lot to deal with.” Mr. Morgan rubbed his chin. “When you’re up to it, we should have a good talk about everything. But only when you’re ready.”

  Jayden nodded. “That would be good, thank you.” He sucked in a breath and gulped. “I should call Dad.”

  Mr. Morgan nodded. “Only if you’re up to it, otherwise I can call.”

  Was he up to it? Could he spea
k to Dad on the phone and not break down? Jayden inhaled slowly. Yes, he could. He would. “Yes, I can do it.”

  “Okay, we’ll be in the next room if you need us.”

  “Thank you.”

  “Would you like me to stay?” Angie asked with a soft voice as she touched his hand lightly.

  He shifted his gaze to her and nodded.

  She squeezed his hand.

  After her parents left the room, Jayden steeled himself and dialed Dad’s number.

  Angie held his gaze as the phone rang.

  His heart thumped. Seconds passed. When Dad answered, Jayden’s lip quivered. He couldn’t speak.

  “Jayden… is that you?”

  “Yes, Dad, it’s me.” Jayden spoke quietly.

  “What’s wrong, son?”

  Jayden gulped. “It’s Mom. The police think she’s killed someone.”

  For a long moment, Dad didn’t say anything.

  “What… what makes them think that?”

  “The man she’s been living with has been murdered. The police think she did it.”

  “Have they charged her?”

  “No, they don’t know where she is.”

  Silence.

  “Are they looking for anyone else?”

  Jayden drew in a breath. “Not that I know of.”

  “Where are you?”

  “At Angie’s place.”

  “Would you like me to come over? I can jump on a plane right now.”

  Jayden’s head whirled. “Ah… I don’t know. It’s only just happened. Let me think about that, okay?”

  “All right, but I can come straight away if you want.”

  Tears pricked Jayden’s eyes as a lump formed in his throat. “Thanks Dad. I’ll let you know.”

  “No problem. How are you holding up? Are you okay?”

  Jayden drew a breath. Was he all right? Not really, but he couldn’t have asked for better people to be with. “Kind of. Angie’s parents have been really good.”