Falling for the Hometown Hero

by Mindy Obenhaus

  “Glad to hear it.” Using the handrail for support, he climbed the wooden steps and continued toward her, the blade he used for running making a gentle thump against the white floorboards.

  While her pulse set off for parts unknown, a plethora of monarchs took flight in her midsection.

  “Mind if I sit?” He gestured to one of the wicker chairs.

  “No. Go ahead.” She grabbed the throw pillow from behind her and clutched it in front of her. “Out for your nightly run?”

  Sitting, he rested his elbows on his thighs, clasped his hands together and looked her square in the eye. “Yes, but I also wanted to see you. I owe you an apology, Grace.”

  Seriously? Hadn’t they been through this before? Obviously he was much better at apologizing than she’d ever be. And while the first time he apologized had been justified, this time, she wasn’t so sure.

  “I thought about what you said and realize I came on a little strong the other day, forcing my problems onto you. I had no right to do that.”

  No right? Weren’t they supposed to be friends? Of course, he had a right to expect his friend to listen. That was the kind of thing friends did.

  Except she shut him down.

  So what was she going to do now?

  “I thought that voice sounded far too deep for Grace.” Roger pushed through the screen door. “I didn’t know you guys had plans tonight.” His gaze moved between her and Kaleb.

  “We don’t.” Kaleb ran a hand through his sweat-dampened hair. “I was just out for my run and thought I’d stop and say hi.”

  Always the gentleman. Making her feel like an even bigger jerk.

  “Nice night, that’s for sure.” Hands buried in the pockets of his cargo shorts, Roger looked out over the neighborhood. “Probably one of the best ones we’ve had so far this year.”

  She glanced at Kaleb. Caught him watching her.

  She quickly looked away, heat creeping into her cheeks as she pretended to be enthralled in the colorful flower basket hanging overhead.

  “It has been an interesting year.” Though she refused to look, she knew Kaleb’s eyes hadn’t left her.

  “Roger?” Mama pushed the door open. “Why, hello, Kaleb.” A smile lit her face. Even though it had been only two days since they went to the doctor, she seemed to be feeling a lot better, which, in turn, had improved her outlook on everything else.

  Kaleb stood and went to greet her. “We were just enjoying this perfect weather. Care to join us?” He motioned to the chair he’d vacated.

  “It is lovely out here, isn’t it?” Mama breathed deep, gazing out over the yard as though seeing it for the first time. “I do believe I’ve been cooped up in that house for too long.”

  Roger took hold of her arm. “Come on. Let’s sit.” He escorted her to the chair closest to the love seat before taking the seat beside her.

  “Have a seat, Kaleb, so we can discuss the exhibit.”

  A look of panic flitted across his handsome, though sweaty, features. Considering the only seat available was on the love seat, next to Grace...

  She scooted over, getting as close to the arm as possible before patting the cushion beside her. “I promise not to bite.”

  Mama leaned back in her chair and addressed Kaleb. “I spoke with Delores Whitley today. She is absolutely thrilled with your donations and says the exhibit is coming together even better than they’d hoped.”

  Kaleb was on the edge of his seat, as though ready to flee at any moment. “Good. Though I can’t take much credit. It’s Grace we have to thank. Without her, I’m afraid I wouldn’t have been much help at all.”

  Grace’s gaze slid sideways. Oh, just rake the knife of guilt over my heart, why don’t you.

  “I know what you mean.” Mama reached for her hand. Gave it a quick squeeze. “Without her, I might not even be here.”

  How many times had she heard that since moving in. “Mama...”

  The woman leaned back again. “So, how’s your speech for the ribbon cutting coming along? It’s only a week away.”

  If it was possible, even more sweat beaded Kaleb’s brow. “I’m still mulling over what I want to say.”

  Grace dared to face him this time. Mulling, her eye. If anything, he was trying to figure out how to get out of it.

  “Really? Well, I wouldn’t take too long. It’ll be here before you know it and you want to be prepared.”

  No doubt about it, Mama was definitely feeling more like her old self.

  “Yes, ma’am.”

  Grace actually felt sorry for Kaleb. Poor guy came to apologize and ended up being grilled.

  “Oh, goodness.” Mama covered a yawn with her hand. “I guess all of this fresh air is getting to me.” Gripping the arms of her chair, she pushed to her feet. “I should think about getting to bed.”

  Roger was already standing, offering his arm. “I’m right behind you, dear.”

  They turned for the door.

  Mama waved. “You kids have a good night.”

  “Good night,” they said in unison.

  As Roger and Mama disappeared into the house, Grace wrestled with how to respond to Kaleb’s apology. If she coldly accepted it then they’d carry on, with every interaction being as awkward as they’d been these past few days. Or she could apologize to him and enjoy one of the greatest friendships she’d ever had. But doing that also meant putting her heart on the line. Was that something she was willing to risk?

  Kaleb stood. “I should—”

  “Wait.” Tossing the pillow aside, she jumped to her feet. “You don’t owe me anything, Kaleb, least of all an apology. I was having a bad day Thursday and I took it out on you.”

  “Yeah, but I shouldn’t have—”

  She held up a hand to cut him off. “We’ve shared a lot over these last several weeks. Of course, you would have expected you could vent without fear of having your head bit off. But I did just that. And I had no right. So I apologize.”

  Hands on his hips, he stared at the painted floor. “Here’s the problem, though.”

  Her heart sank. She’d blown it. Kaleb was one of the sweetest, most genuine people she’d ever known and she’d stomped all over his feelings.

  He looked at her now. “You were right. It’s not all about me. Yet I keep trying to make it that way.”

  As daylight faded and night sounds filled the air, she breathed a sigh of relief and smiled up at her friend. “I don’t have a campfire, but if you’d care to sit and talk, perhaps we could figure out that speech of yours.”

  The corners of his mouth lifted. “That’d be great.” He hesitated a few seconds. Scratched his head. “Okay, this might be pushing it, but how would you feel about accompanying me to a cookout Thursday? Strictly for moral support.”

  She knew how anxious he was about seeing his friends’ families. Though she believed his worry unfounded. Still, they were very real to him and she wanted to help.

  “What’s on the menu?”

  “Meat.”

  She couldn’t help grinning. “Then it looks like you’ve got yourself a date, my friend.”

  * * *

  Any other time, Kaleb would have been over the moon to be in the company of such a gorgeous woman. Yet while Grace was beyond stunning in a long turquoise sundress and strappy sandals, he simply wanted to make it through tonight.

  “Kaleb?”

  They paused in the street.

  She took hold of his hands and stared deeply into his eyes. “I’m here for you.” She gently squeezed. “It’s going to be fine. I promise.”

  He appreciated her reassurance, though it did little to bolster him. Still, he was beyond grateful to have her with him. Since that night on Roger and Donna’s porch, they’d spent a lot of time together, both at work and
after hours. And while they hadn’t acknowledged their feelings, it was as though they’d both accepted them, becoming comfortable with the occasional touch or embrace. Though he had yet to kiss her again.

  “Are you ready?”

  Standing in front of his parents’ two-story folk-style home, he blew out a breath. One. Two. Lord, please give me the words to say to these people. And don’t let them hate me.

  With one hand in Grace’s and the other tucked inside the pocket of his khaki cargo shorts, he said, “Okay. Let’s go.”

  The aroma of grilled meat filled the air as they moved across the lush green yard, aiming for the oversized wooden deck on the home’s south side.

  “Here they are now.” His mother, Bev, strolled across the deck, meeting them at the steps. She and Grace must have compared notes, because she also wore a long sundress, her chin-length blond hair pulled up in a clip.

  “Sorry we’re late.” Addressing the large group of people that milled about, he tamped down his panic and forced a smile. “Had to finish up some things at the shop.”

  Vanessa approached him, her sable hair pulled back into a ponytail, her dark eyes swimming with tears. “It’s so good to see you again.” Her hug was fierce, full of warmth and welcome.

  When they finally released, a young girl came near him. She was beautiful, looking so much like Beau with her blond curls, carrying a small bouquet of flowers. “These are for you, Mr. Kaleb.” She curtsied as though he were some kind of royalty.

  Overcome with emotion, he dropped to his knee and hugged the child for all he was worth. Beau would be so proud of his daughter.

  As he stood, a man came closer, stopping beside Vanessa.

  “This is my fiancé, Brandon,” she said.

  The dark-haired man, somewhere close to Kaleb’s age, extended his hand. “It’s an honor. I’ve heard a lot about you.”

  Vanessa grabbed hold of Brandon’s arm. “We’re getting married next week.”

  Married? How could that be? Had she forgotten about Beau?

  Before he had time to think further, another woman moved toward him. “I’m Shannon White. Jason Meador was my husband.” Tears spilled onto her round cheeks as she motioned another man forward.

  “Ron White.” He shook Kaleb’s hand. “It’s good to finally meet you.”

  Kaleb’s throat thickened. Vanessa was about to get married. Jason’s wife had already remarried.

  He felt a hand on his shoulder. Turning, he saw Grace smiling.

  She leaned toward him. “Remember, it’s been five long years for them.”

  He simply stared at her, understanding dawning. “Thanks for the reminder.” Because in many ways, it seemed like only yesterday.

  How did she know what he was thinking?

  A slightly older man and woman made their way to him.

  The man reached out his hand. “Ron and Michelle Squires, Stephen’s parents.” The man’s voice broke.

  Before Kaleb could respond, the man pulled him close, sobbing.

  Tears welled in Kaleb’s eyes. He’d been ready for them to hate him, but he hadn’t counted on this.

  When the Squires finally retreated, another couple moved closer.

  Again, the man held out his hand. “Kurt and Abigail Kowalski. Dayton’s folks.”

  Kaleb couldn’t contain himself any longer. Dayton had been the youngest among them. Barely making it to his twentieth birthday. Gulping for air, he hugged the couple. His body shook as he gave in to his emotions, not only with grief for what these people had lost, but for the love they’d shown him.

  When the Kowalskis had also retreated, Kaleb was beside himself. Overwhelmed and shocked beyond words. He’d come in here on the defensive and found himself surrounded by people who genuinely cared.

  He felt an arm around his shoulders.

  Without even looking, he knew it was Grace.

  She handed him a napkin. “I think I speak for Kaleb and the rest of his family when I say that we are blessed to have each and every one of you here. We look forward to hearing your stories, so, please, enjoy yourselves.”

  He dried his eyes, watching her step aside.

  Grace was exactly what he’d been looking for when he began his search for an office manager. Someone who could easily handle those things that didn’t come naturally to him. Someone who shared his vision and whose skill set complemented his own. In Grace, he’d found the perfect partner. Except tonight, those thoughts had nothing to do with business.

  Where he was weak, she was strong. She wasn’t afraid to step in and lift him up. He only prayed he could do the same for her.

  “Is everybody ready to eat?” His father, Tom, stood beside the grill, spatula raised in the air.

  His query was met with a resounding “Yes!”

  “All right, then. If everyone would join hands, I’d like to offer a blessing.”

  Everyone did as he’d requested, quickly forming a crude circle.

  Kaleb took hold of Grace’s hand, giving it a gentle squeeze of thanks.

  She glanced at him and smiled.

  “If you’d bow your heads, please.” Dad began. “Father God, we thank You for this day and for these people who’ve traveled far to be with us. I ask a special blessing on each and every one of them. Lord, we ask that You would bless this food to the nourishment of our bodies, in Jesus’s name, amen.”

  “Amen.”

  Sometime later, after he’d relaxed enough to allow himself to grab a burger, he stood at the edge of the deck, watching Beau’s daughter, Hannah, and Vanessa’s fiancé playing soccer in the yard. It still broke his heart that his friend had never got the chance to meet his little girl. That she’d had to grow up without her father.

  He looked intently at Vanessa’s fiancé, Brandon. Did he always play with Hannah or was this interaction just for show?

  “He’s a good man.”

  Kaleb startled at Vanessa’s voice. Had she really known what he was thinking?

  “He seems okay.”

  “We met when Hannah was three.” Arms folded across her chest, she watched her daughter and fiancé. “It’s taken me a long time to find someone who could hold a candle to Beau.” She smiled. “But I finally found him.”

  Spotting them, Brandon waved and jogged toward them. “I can’t believe this place. There are mountains everywhere I look.”

  Kaleb couldn’t help but grin, eyeing the peaks around them. “Yeah, nestled in a bowl like this makes Ouray pretty special.”

  “When Vanessa told me where we were going, I had no idea. But this is incredible.”

  Hannah trotted toward them then. “Daddy, come on.” She motioned for Brandon to join her.

  “Sorry. Duty calls.” Brandon hurried off.

  Kaleb’s heart skidded to a stop. Daddy? That was a title that should have been reserved for Beau.

  But you wanted Hannah to have a father.

  “Brandon is planning to adopt Hannah.”

  He faced Vanessa. “I think Beau would approve.”

  Her eyes welled with tears. “I think so, too.”

  “Kaleb.”

  He turned to see the Kowalskis headed toward him.

  Vanessa touched his arm. “I’ll catch up with you later.” She made her way down the steps to join Brandon and Hannah.

  “Hope you all are enjoying yourselves.” He leaned against the deck rail.

  “Beautiful town you have here.” Kurt lifted his gaze.

  “Wait until we take you on one of our tours. You’ll get to see a whole lot more.”

  Abigail seemed to bubble with excitement. “I can’t wait.”

  Kurt’s expression turned more somber then. “Our Dayton thought very highly of you.”

  Kaleb swallowed hard. “He w
as a good kid. A fine soldier. I was proud to know him.”

  “He admired you a great deal,” said Abigail. “Used to talk about you all the time.”

  Kurt pulled a paper from his shirt pocket. “He sent this email shortly before he died. We thought you might like to have it.” He handed it to Kaleb.

  He opened the paper, noting that one section had been highlighted.

  I can’t say where, but we were in a firefight the other day. And out in the middle was this woman and her kid. Next thing I know, Sgt. Palmer yells for us to cover him. Crazy fool ran right into the cross fire, grabbed the kid and shielded the woman until they were safely behind us. Talk about selfless. That’s the kind of hero I hope I can be.

  “Wow.” It was all he could manage.

  “You were a good example for those young men out there.” Kurt sniffed. “You should be proud.”

  “Thank you, sir.”

  As the Kowalskis walked away, Grace moved alongside him. “Tough night in some ways, uplifting in others.”

  “You got that right.” He reached for her hand. “And I realized something.”

  “What’s that?”

  He scanned the faces that had traveled to be with him. “They’ve all moved on.” He looked at Grace now. “The past is a part of them, but it doesn’t define them.”

  She laid a hand against his chest. “Perhaps we could both learn from that.”

  Chapter Fifteen

  The sun was shining brightly when Kaleb and Grace arrived at the museum early Saturday afternoon. Flags swayed in the breeze, as did the red-white-and-blue banner over the museum door that read Welcome to Our Hometown Heroes.

  People had already begun to gather. He recognized many of them as townspeople; however, there were just as many folks that he didn’t recognize.

  “There’s my handsome son.” His mom emerged from the small crowd, phone in hand, dodging a couple of people in the process.

  “You’re looking pretty good yourself, Mom.” Her favorite white dress was accented by a pair of glitzy sandals.

  As usual, Dad brought up the rear. “Son.” He held out his hand. When Kaleb took hold, his father reeled him in for a hug. “I’m proud of you.”