Running footsteps headed toward him.
There was no time to catch his breath. Rick grabbed the gun, shoved it into his pack, grabbed the dynamite and matches.
He worked his way around to the east, knowing he only had a few seconds before the other soldiers found the kid.
Rick spotted the target. At this point, this was the best he could do. He lit the match, ignited the dynamite, threw it at the hub, and then took off running for all he was worth.
He couldn’t think about how many soldiers might come after him.
He couldn’t think about the kid he might’ve killed.
All he could think about was Chaisley and if he’d ever see her again.
Amsterdam, Netherlands—Monday, November 7, 1938
Sleep had been replaced with tears each night since Rick left, until Chaisley couldn’t cry any longer. She’d rescheduled as many datesas she could, hoping that he would return here at any moment. But she couldn’t hide and postpone things forever.
He’d written her a beautiful letter in braille that she had read every day. But to not hear his voice ... not feel his presence. Her heart ached with missing him.
Chaisley paced her bedroom and shook away the thoughts. They’d been through a lot the past six months together. They’d shared meals, conversations, hours upon hours in a vehicle together. They’d shared life. Real life. They could get through this time apart.
Oh, God, please keep him safe.
As she started the prayer, she made her way over to the window and knelt at the sill. She poured out her heart. For healing for her grandmother, safety for Rick, and to find Mary Beth and her mother and bring them to safety. Then she went down the list of the names of each person they housed at the manor. So many beautiful lives. And there were still more to help.
She got to her feet and headed toward the hall. If Rick didn’t return today, she’d simply have to go back on tour without him. A thought she despised. But she and Mel had prayed for strength.
God would supply.
It was time.
She passed an open window and heard the engine of an auto rumble closer to the house. As it came up the drive, she recognized the engine’s sound. ThatwasRick.
She made her way down the stairs and waited for him inside the foyer. She wanted to be the first thing he saw when he walked into the house.
The door creaked.
“Chaisley.”
Her name on his lips couldn’t have sounded sweeter.
She rushed toward him with her arms outstretched and prayed they wouldn’t smash their heads together when she reached him.
He pulled her into his arms. “I love you.”
“I love you too.” She laid her head on his chest. “I’m so thankful you are safe!”
“It has been a harrowing few days, but I’m glad to be back in time to keep my cover as your driver. I was afraid you would already be on tour without me.”
“What every lady wishes to hear.” Melanie’s comment accompanied her light laugh. “It’s good to have you back, Rick.”
“Oh, leave him alone, Mel. He’s got plenty of time to practice what he should say later.” Chaisley could feel the heat in her cheeks, but she was so grateful to have him back. She tugged on his hand. “Let’s go sit and chat for a bit.”
“I’d love to.”
She led him toward the sitting room.
“How is your grandmother?”
