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

by Juliette Duncan

  The pale colours of dawn filled the sky, and the day promised to be a good one. Not a breath of breeze touched her as the dogs dragged her down the tree-lined street leading to the park and to the river. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted in the air, tempting Tessa to stop as she approached the corner café where, despite the chill of the morning, the outdoor tables were filled with early morning walkers and cyclists enjoying a cup of the café’s highly reputed coffee. Tessa glanced down at her two canine companions. They wouldn’t be happy if she stopped. Besides, Ben would be up soon, and she needed to get back. No, coffee would have to wait.

  She did a quick lap, just enough to satisfy the dogs, and then headed back home. Ben was in the kitchen getting the breakfast things out when she returned. She stretched up and placed a kiss on his cheek.

  He leaned back against the kitchen bench and pulled her close, slipping his arms around her waist.

  She rested her head on his chest before pulling back and gazing into his eyes, which were heavier and darker than normal. She touched his cheek. “We’ll get through today, Ben. I know we will.”

  His chest expanded as he inhaled slowly. “You’re always so positive, Tess.” A wistful smile grew on his face. “Yes, we’ll get through the day, but it’d be better if he was here.”

  “I know, Ben. But we have hope, and we need to be thankful for that.” Tessa smiled into his eyes. “Why don’t you write Jayden another letter? At least that way it’ll be like you’re talking with him.”

  “Mmm, I might just do that.” He tilted his head. “So what are we doing today?”

  “Oh, I don’t know… maybe we could go back to bed for a while?”

  Ben raised an eyebrow, a playful grin forming on his face. “Great idea.” He leaned down and kissed her gently before taking her hand and leading her upstairs.

  Some time later, Tessa woke to flutterings in her tummy. All her concerns about miscarrying again had been put to rest some time ago, and now, towards the end of her second trimester, their baby was alive and well. Tessa wriggled up and leaned against the pillows. Beside her, Ben stirred. She reached out and gently placed his hand on her stomach.

  He opened his eyes and smiled as he snuggled closer. “I think I could stay here all day.”

  Tessa laughed. “We could, but no.” She straightened and glanced at the clock. “We promised to help at the working bee, and we’re going to be late if we don’t hurry.”

  Ben yawned. “Do we have to go?”

  “We promised.”

  He let out a resigned sigh. “Best get ready, then.” He leaned up and kissed Tessa’s lips as he ran his hand down her cheek. “I love you, Tess. Thank you for being here for me.”

  “Where else would I be?” She laughed.

  “Oh, I don’t know. Just saying!”

  Tessa shook her head, but warmth spread through her body as Ben pulled her close and kissed her again. After several seconds, she pulled away. “Okay. We need to get ready. We can grab breakfast on the way.”

  Ben smiled at her. “Sounds good.”

  The working bee at the Fellowship Bible Church was well under way by the time they arrived, but Ben and Tessa were warmly welcomed by Fraser Stanthorpe, the pastor, and their friends, Margaret and Harold, as well as all the others who were busy doing a variety of jobs around the place.

  Ben was allocated the job of trimming the bushes at the front of the building with Scott and Rosy, a young couple who’d been attending the Bible Study group Ben was leading in their home. Tessa was given the job of window cleaning with Margaret.

  “Good to see you here, Tessa.” Margaret’s warm smile lit up her face. “Harold and I have been praying for you both.” She glanced towards the front of the building and lowered her voice. “How’s Ben holding up today?”

  Tessa inhaled slowly. “It’s going to be a long day.”

  Margaret nodded. “Being here will do him good.”

  “Yes.”

  The working bee was due to finish at twelve o’clock. An idea formed in Tessa’s mind as she cleaned windows beside Margaret, and when Ben came inside, she put her hand on his shoulder and whispered into his ear. He turned to face her and then nodded.

  Tessa called everyone to attention. She cleared her throat as her gaze travelled around the group of about twenty people. “Ben and I would like to invite you all back to our place for lunch. It’s Jayden’s sixteenth birthday today, and even though he’s not here, we’d like to celebrate it with our friends.” Tessa’s voice choked and tears stung her eyes, but she pushed them back. She wasn’t going to be sad. She took a deep breath and leaned into Ben.

  “That’s a very kind offer,” Fraser said. “Tracy and I would love to come, thank you.”

  “And so would we,” Margaret said, wiping her eyes as she reached for Harold’s hand.

  Most of the others also accepted, offering to bring food for the impromptu meal.

  Tessa thought a simple barbecue would be the easiest, and she and Ben stopped at the supermarket on the way home and bought hamburger patties and bread rolls, as well as tomatoes, lettuce and beetroot. They had plenty of onions and cheese at home. Margaret offered to bring some cake for dessert, and a few others said they’d bring drinks.

  Shortly after, when everyone arrived, Ben began cooking the hamburger patties and onions on the barbecue. Fraser, Harold, and Scott stood around the barbecue chatting and laughing. Tessa’s heart warmed as she glanced through the kitchen window while she and Margaret buttered the bread rolls. Thank you, God. This is just what Ben needs.

  “You really do have a lovely home, Tessa.” Margaret glanced around the open-plan kitchen and living area that opened out onto the timber deck surrounded by a sub-tropical garden and a large in-ground pool.

  “Thank you, Margaret.” Tessa gave her an appreciative smile. “We think it’s a mansion after being in Ecuador, which it probably is, but we feel so much better about it now it’s being used for God’s work. We love having people over, and it’s been great for Bible Study.”

  “I’ve heard good things about the study Ben’s leading.”

  Tessa smiled. “Yes, he’s doing a great job. Ecuador changed him so much.” Tessa’s heart overflowed with gratitude as she gazed out at Ben. How much God had blessed them. The trip to Ecuador had been a turning point in their lives, no doubt about it. They’d both come back with a much stronger faith and understanding of what it meant to trust God, and they’d both learned to let things go. So many things that in the past would have upset them or caused them to worry, now seemed insignificant.

  “And this was a great idea, Tessa. Thank you.”

  “Our pleasure, Margaret. It’s great to have the house filled with friends. Especially today.”

  Margaret placed her hand lightly on Tessa’s wrist. “He’ll be back soon, Tessa.”

  “Maybe, but now he’s got a girlfriend…” Tessa raised an eyebrow. “Who knows?”

  “Don’t give up hope, dear.”

  “We’re not, it’s just that it’s hard being patient.”

  “Tell me about it!” Margaret let out a chuckle. “But when it finally happens, it’s like all that lost time is forgotten. I’m sure it’ll be the same for you as well.”

  “I hope so, Margaret. I really do.”

  Later, after everyone had eaten, Margaret brought out a chocolate cake she’d picked up on her way from church. She lit sixteen candles, and placed the cake in front of Ben and Tessa. “Let’s sing happy birthday to Jayden.”

  Tessa smiled at Margaret and then leaned into Ben. Her heart ached as they sang, and tears filled her eyes, but she was ever so glad she and Ben were surrounded by friends who understood their pain and were there to support them.

  “Can we pray for Jayden?” Fraser’s normally strong voice was quiet and full of compassion.

  Tessa glanced up at Ben before nodding. “That would be great, thank you.”

  Fraser smiled and then cleared his throat. “Let’s pray.” He bowed h
is head. “Dear God, we thank You for this beautiful day, and for this beautiful family. We can’t even begin to understand the heartache that Ben and Tessa are feeling, but You understand, dear Lord, and we pray that today as they celebrate Jayden’s sixteenth birthday, that You’ll comfort them and wrap Your arms around them. And we also pray for Jayden. We ask that You’ll be with him, that You’ll keep him safe, and that You’ll keep knocking on the door of his heart, and we pray that one day soon he’ll let You in. Bless the new little baby that’s soon to be welcomed into this family, dear Lord, and may Your name continue to be glorified in this home. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.”

  Tessa sucked in a breath as she wiped her eyes. Fraser’s prayer had acted as a balm to her soul. She raised her head and gazed around the group, thanking God for bringing each one of them into her life.

  After they’d all left, Tessa flopped onto a sun-lounge, resting her head on a cushion. “I think I need a nap, Ben.”

  “I’m not surprised.” Ben perched beside her and brushed his hand over her hair. “Thanks for organising that, Tess. It was great.”

  Tessa took his other hand and held it. “Funny how spontaneous events are often better than overly planned ones.”

  “I’m beginning to learn that!” He chuckled as he lowered his face before placing a gentle kiss on her lips. “I’ll go write that letter while you nap.”

  Tessa smiled before stifling a yawn. “Great idea.”

  Chapter 5

  While Tessa napped, Ben sat at his computer and stared at the screen. So many things he wanted to say to Jayden, but now he didn’t know where to start. He spun around in his chair and gazed out at Tessa sleeping on the sun-lounge, cozily wrapped in a blanket. He drew in a deep breath and picked up Jayden’s latest letter. He knew the contents by heart, but read it again anyway.

  Dear Dad and Tessa,

  You know I’m not that good at writing letters, so I’ll keep this short. I’m doing okay. Work is all right, but it’s a bit boring. I never thought I’d be stocking shelves for a job, but at least I get paid every week. The lady I work with keeps telling me I need to be studying. I will, one day. My biggest news is that I’ve got a girlfriend. Her name’s Angie, and she’s really nice. It was her parents who told me I should write to you. They’re really cool. They live on a ranch, but Mr. Morgan is a teacher at the high school. They also go to church, and I’ve been going with them for the past few weeks. I know you’ll be happy about that. I don’t see Mum very often, but she’s not in a good way. I keep an eye out for her in case she needs me. How are Bindy and Sparky? I miss them. I’m not ready to talk yet, but I’m glad we can write to each other and that you’re not mad at me.

  Your son,

  Jayden

  Ben blinked back tears as he slowly folded the paper. How did this happen, God? How did Jayden end up on the other side of the world? He swallowed the lump in his throat and sucked in a deep breath before exhaling slowly. God was working in Jayden’s heart, and at least they were communicating. Ben needed to be thankful for that. But it was still, oh so hard. A flock of brightly coloured rainbow lorikeet parrots flew overhead and settled in the grevillea bush in the far corner of the yard and twittered, triggering memories of the camping trip they’d taken to the mountains. Such a fun weekend, although Ben hadn’t wanted to go. He sighed heavily. Will we ever to get to do that again?

  Ben turned back to his desk, but instead of typing, he pulled out a piece of paper and a pen. God, please give me the words to write to Jayden.

  Dear Jayden,

  This is such a hard letter to write. Today is your sixteenth birthday, and Tessa and I are wondering what you’re doing for it. We’re guessing you’ll be spending it with your girlfriend, and maybe her family. They sound really nice. Whatever you do, we hope you have a great day.

  Ben ran his hand through his hair. It wasn’t right—Jayden should be spending his birthday with him and Tessa, not with another family. But he had to put that aside.

  It’s hard for us to imagine you with a girlfriend. You must have grown up so much, and we’re proud of the way you’re taking on such responsibility, but we can’t pretend we’re not sad that you still haven’t come home. Know that whenever you do decide to come, you’ll be welcomed with open arms. Bindy and Sparky will be so excited to see you too. They miss you terribly.

  We would have liked to celebrate your birthday with you today, but as we couldn’t, we celebrated it anyway. It’s been a lovely day, even though the guest of honour was missing. We miss you, Jayden, and we look forward to the day when we’ll see you again.

  And yes, both Tessa and I were pleased to hear you’ve been to church. And we’re happy you’ve found a family to spend time with. Maybe you could send a photograph with your next letter?

  Until then, be assured of our love, which will never change, no matter where you are or what you do.

  Dad

  Sighing, Ben placed his pen on the desk and folded the paper. One step at a time. It was all he could ask for, and he had to be content with that.

  He hadn’t heard Tessa come in, but her hand on his shoulder was warm and soft. He reached up and placed his hand on hers before spinning slowly around in his chair.

  “Done?” Her voice still sounded sleepy, and her hair was messed up.

  Ben pulled her gently onto his lap, blanket and all, slipping his arms around her waist. “Yes, it’s done.”

  “Good.” Tessa leaned her head on his and wrapped her arms around his neck and shoulders.

  Moments of silence passed between them. Ben closed his eyes. Tessa’s love kept him going. He nuzzled her hair. So soft. And the smell… He breathed in her perfume as he kissed the curve of her neck. Her head rolled slowly. His pulse quickened. His kisses grew more urgent. He lifted his hand and tilted her face towards his. He opened his eyes and gazed into hers.

  “We couldn’t do this if Jayden was here.” Tessa’s eyes sparkled, her voice no more than a whisper.

  “We’d better make the most of it, then.” He pulled her closer until their lips met in a kiss that began gently, but grew in intensity, leaving them both breathless.

  “We’re going to be late, Ben.” Tessa threw off her blanket and stood. Her chest heaved. “You get distracted so easily these days.”

  Ben laughed. “What do you expect? We’re here on our own, and you’re so deliciously beautiful.”

  It was true. Not that she was so deliciously beautiful, he could say that if he wanted, but it was true that apart from their honeymoon, they’d never really been on their own. Even at the mission, people were always popping in at random times, but here, in their own home, it was almost like they were newlyweds.

  “We told Mum and Dad we’d be there by six.” Tessa glanced at her watch. “It’s five-thirty now.”

  “We’d better hurry, then. Just one more kiss?” Ben cocked his head. His eyes were so soft and doey. Tessa almost gave in.

  “No. Come on, we need to get ready.”

  Ben blew out a breath and stuck his bottom lip out. “If we have to.” He stood, but as he did, he grabbed her hand and pulled her close. “I do love you, Tess. With all my heart.”

  She smiled up at him. “I know, Ben. And I love you too.”

  He leaned down and placed a gentle kiss on her lips.

  Eleanor and Telford stood outside the new Modern Australian restaurant Tessa had suggested trying after seeing it on one of her early morning walks with the dogs.

  “Sorry we’re late.” Tessa gave her mother and father a hug and a kiss, while Ben kissed Eleanor and shook Telford’s hand.

  “No problem, dear, we were just admiring the view. The river always looks spectacular at night.” Eleanor gave Tessa a warm smile as she linked her arm through Tessa’s. “And this place looks interesting. A little different to Bussey’s.”

  Tessa chuckled. “You could say that. But it’s well and truly time you and Dad tried something different.”

  “Not so sure about trying cr
ocodile, though.” Telford raised his bushy eyebrows as a look of mock terror appeared on his face.

  “Oh Dad, be adventurous for once!” Tessa slapped him playfully on the back as they strolled towards the entrance of ‘Bree’s on the River’.

  “It’s so modern and fancy,” Eleanor said as they stepped inside the door and waited to be seated. The restaurant was expansive, with an open-air feel to it. Perched on the edge of the river, the jogging path was the only separation between the restaurant and the waterway that was the life of the city. Tonight, a steady stream of couples strolled along the path, with the occasional cyclist weaving around them. On the river, the CityCat skimmed past, leaving a ripple of small waves in its wake. The gentle sound of water lapping the river’s edge greeted them as they took their seats at their table on the outside alfresco deck.

  “Glad I wore a jacket.” Tessa shivered and rubbed her arms briskly as a light breeze came off the river.

  “I’ll ask them to light a heater,” Ben said, calling a waiter over.

  “That’s better,” Tessa said as their young, smart-looking waiter ignited the gas heater, sending an immediate blast of warmth her way.

  “I have to admit this is lovely, Tessa.” Eleanor’s gaze swept around the restaurant and along the river.

  “Still don’t know what was wrong with Bussey’s.” Telford folded his arms and wriggled in his seat.

  “Dad. Stop it!”

  Telford laughed. “I’m just teasing, Tessa.” His eyes crinkled at the edge as his face softened into a playful grin. “But I’m still not so sure about the menu.”