“It must have been hard,” he said with compassion.
“It was. There were days when I felt the pain of loss would never get better. But it got easier with time. That’s what they say, don’t they? Time’s a healer.” She glanced down and tucked some hair behind her ear. “It feels like nonsense at the beginning, a thing people say because they don’t know what else to say, but then you wake up one morning and realise it’s a little easier to breathe.”
She looked taken aback at how much she’d revealed and gave a breathy, embarrassed laugh. “Sorry, I don’t know where all that came from.”
Callum shook his head quickly. He’d been completely caught up in her words. “Not at all. I’m glad I saw you. I’ve often wondered how you were doing. Jeff talked about you and the children all the time—nearly drove the rest of us mad.”
She let out a small laugh and he couldn’t help noticing how her face lit up. “That’s so nice to hear,” she said before glancing at her wristwatch. “I wish we had longer to chat. It’s so nice to talk to someone about Jeff after all these years. I don’t see anyone from the army anymore, but I never was one to mingle with the wives.” She frowned as if realising something. “Are you on leave?”
“Not quite. I’ve taken a break from active service. I’m based at Salford Barracks, overseeing the training of the new recruits.” He felt embarrassed as he said it, so was gratified when she looked impressed.
“That’s fantastic. I bet you’re brilliant at it.”
Callum was surprised to feel himself flush. “Well, the jury’s out on that one; it was only my first day today. I usually work out first thing in the morning, but I guess it will have to be evenings from now on.” He motioned towards the gym. “Are you here after work too?” He tried to remember if Jeff had spoken about Fleur having a career.
She grinned. “This is my work. I’m a gym instructor. Yoga, Pilates and CrossFit. Sometimes Aqua Aerobics, too.”
“Wow. That’s great. You must enjoy it.”
“I love it,” she said with a simple honesty he found appealing. As much as he’d been driven to get ahead in his army career, he didn’t think he could ever have said those words with the obvious contentment she did.
“I’d just finished my training when Jeff died,” she continued, “so working has been a real help. Gave me something outside to focus on. That and my faith.” Her hand went subconsciously back to the cross around her neck.
Callum felt a pang of something that was close to envy. He’d never really understood faith, though he’d been taken to church services and attended Sunday School as a kid. That had been his father, keeping up appearances, rather than through any real commitment or belief. As far as Callum knew, his parents now only went to church at Christmas and Easter.
“I don’t know much about that,” he admitted, wishing suddenly he’d paid more attention in Sunday School. He realised he wanted to impress Fleur, but wasn’t sure why. Something about her drew him, and it wasn’t just the fact that she was extremely attractive. Was it a sense of guilt about Jeff that made him feel almost protective towards her? Although the explosion hadn’t been his fault, he always retained a sense of responsibility for the men he’d lost. Losing men was something he’d never been able to get used to.
For an instant, wistfulness stole into her expression. “That’s a pity.” There was another silence before she smiled apologetically. “It was lovely seeing you, Lieutenant...Callum, but please excuse me. I’ve got to get back for the kids.”
Callum didn’t know if he imagined the expectant note in her words, but found himself asking, “Would you like to go for lunch sometime? You said it was nice to talk to someone from...back then. And, well, I don’t really know anyone here off base.”
It seemed an age before she answered, and Callum thought he’d misread her completely and was starting to wish the ground would swallow him up, when she nodded and gave that shy smile again. “That would be nice. Here,” she swung her gym bag off her shoulder and reached into it, “here’s my card.”
“Thank you very much,” he said, and then chastised himself for being so formal. He took the card and tucked it into the pocket of his shorts.
“Right, well. See you.” She gave him one last smile before turning and heading down the road.
“Bye.” He lifted his hand and watched her go, feeling bemused at their encounter. Such a coincidence that he’d bumped into her the day after dreaming about Jeff.
That was why he felt drawn to her. And it’d be nice to have at least an acquaintance here who wasn’t from the base. Yes, that was it.
The fact that she was extremely attractive and made him feel like a nervous schoolboy had nothing to do with it at all.
Continue reading here.
Other Books by Juliette Duncan
Find all of Juliette Duncan's books on her website: www.julietteduncan.com/library
Transformed by Love Christian Romance Series
Book 1 - Because We Loved
A decorated Lieutenant Colonel plagued with guilt. A captivating widow whose husband was killed under his watch…
Book 2 - Because We Forgave
A fallen TV personality hiding from his failures. An ex-wife and family facing their fears…
Book 3 - Because We Dreamed
When dreams are shattered, can hope be restored?
Book 4 - Because We Believed
A single mom forging a new life. A handsome chaplain who steals her heart…
A Sunburned Land
Slow Road to Love
A divorced reporter on a remote assignment. An alluring cattleman who captures her heart…
Slow Journey to Joy
An emergency dash to Paris, an engagement on hold, and an ex-husband who wants her back…
Slow Path to Peace
With their lives stripped bare, can Serena and David find peace?
A Time for Everything Series
A Time For Everything Series is a mature-age contemporary Christian romance series set in Sydney, Australia and Texas, USA. If you like real-life characters, faith-filled families, and friendships that become something more, then you’ll love these inspirational second-chance romances.
The True Love Series
Set in Australia, what starts out as simple love story grows into a family saga, including a dad battling bouts of depression and guilt, an ex-wife with issues of her own, and a young step-mum trying to mother a teenager who’s confused and hurting. Through it all, a love story is woven. A love story between a caring God and His precious children as He gently draws them to Himself and walks with them through the trials and joys of life.
“A beautiful Christian story. I enjoyed all of the books in this series. They all brought out Christian concepts of faith in action.”
“Wonderful set of books. Weaving the books from story to story. Family living, God, & learning to trust Him with all their hearts.”
The Precious Love Series
The Precious Love Series continues the story of Ben, Tessa and Jayden from the The True Love Series, although each book can be read on its own. All of the books in this series will warm your heart and draw you closer to the God who loves and cherishes you without condition.
“I loved all the books by Juliette, but those about Jaydon and Angie's stories are my favorites...can't wait for the next one...”
“Juliette Duncan has earned my highest respect as a Christian romance writer. She continues to write such touching stories about real life and the tragedies, turmoils, and joys that happen while we are living. The words that she uses to write about her characters relationships with God can only come from someone that has had a very close & special with her Lord and Savior herself. I have read all of her books and if you are a reader of Christian fiction books I would highly recommend her books.” Vicki
The Shadows Series
An inspirational romance, a story of passion and love, and of God’s inexplicable desire to free people from pasts that haunt them so they can live
a life full of His peace, love and forgiveness, regardless of the circumstances. Book 1, “Lingering Shadows” is set in England, and follows the story of Lizzy, a headstrong, impulsive young lady from a privileged background, and Daniel, a roguish Irishman who sweeps her off her feet. But can Lizzy leave the shadows of her past behind and give Daniel the love he deserves, and will Daniel find freedom and release in God?
Hank and Sarah - A Love Story, the Prequel to "The Madeleine Richards Series" is a FREE thank you gift for joining my mailing list. You’ll also be the first to hear about my next books and get exclusive sneak previews. Get your free copy at www.julietteduncan.com/subscribe
The Madeleine Richards Series
Although the 3 book series is intended mainly for pre-teen/ Middle Grade girls, it’s been read and enjoyed by people of all ages.
“Juliette has a fabulous way of bringing her characters to life. Maddy is at typical teenager with authentic views and actions that truly make it feel like you are feeling her pain and angst. You want to enter into her situation and make everything better. Mom and soon to be dad respond to her with love and gentle persuasion while maintaining their faith and trust in Jesus, whom they know, will give them wisdom as they continue on their lives journey. Appropriate for teenage readers but any age can enjoy.” Amazon Reader
The Potter’s House Books…stories of hope, redemption, and second chances. Find out more here:
http://pottershousebooks.com/our-books/
The Homecoming
Can she surrender a life of fame and fortune to find true love?
Unchained
Imprisoned by greed – redeemed by love
Blessings of Love
She’s going on mission to help others. He’s going to win her heart.
The Hope We Share
Can the Master Potter work in Rachel and Andrew’s hearts and give them a second chance at love?
When Love Abounds
Can the Master Potter work in Megan’s heart and save her marriage?
Stand Alone Christian Romantic Suspense
Leave Before He Kills You
When his face grew angry, I knew he could murder…
That face drove me and my three young daughters to flee across Australia.
I doubted he’d ever touch the girls, but if I wanted to live and see them grow, I had to do something.
The plan my friend had proposed was daring and bold, but it also gave me hope.
My heart thumped. What if he followed?
Radical, honest and real, this Christian romantic suspense is one woman’s journey to freedom you won’t put down…get your copy and read it now.
About the Author
Juliette Duncan is passionate about writing true to life Christian romances that will touch her readers' hearts and make a difference in their lives. Drawing on her own often challenging real-life experiences, Juliette writes deeply emotional stories that highlight God’s amazing love and faithfulness, for which she’s eternally grateful.
Juliette lives in Brisbane, Australia. She and her husband have five adult children and eight grandchildren whom they love dearly, as well as an elderly long-haired dachshund. When not writing, Juliette and her husband love exploring the great outdoors.
Connect with Juliette:
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.julietteduncan.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/JulietteDuncanAuthor
BookBub: www.bookbub.com/authors/juliette-duncan
Billionaires with Heart Boxset: Christian Romance Series Page 49
