Page 12 of Soaring and Steadfast

What do you mean?

I was abandoned a long time ago. I’m just picking up the pieces a little bit at a time as I go now.

He shut his eyes briefly. That hurt. Not because it was about him, but because he couldfeelit like it was bleeding through the screen.

I get feeling like that. But even if we don’t get the whole picture, there is a feeling of security and hope that still comes from it.

A pause. Then, a sharp response?—

Don’t preach at me, pastor.

Louis flinched. There was something in those words—something brittle, something barely holding itself together. He stared at the message, the silence between them stretching long and tense.

Fair enough. I was just sharing what makes me feel better. I hope you have a book that does the same for you.

He hesitated before adding?—

And I’m glad you spoke up if I said something that bothered you.

Another long silence.

Then—

I’m not shy and will not hesitate to speak up for myself ever again.

A small, unexpected smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.

BRAVO! I’m proud of you.

The minutes stretched long enough for Louis to glance back at his book, skimming the passage he had been reading. He had almost given up on getting a response when his phone vibrated again.

That means a lot.

Thank you.

His throat felt tight.

It’s true.

Now, go enjoy your book and relax.

You too.

Talk soon.

Anytime.

Louis let out a slow breath and set his phone down, staring at the ceiling for a long moment.

He didn’t know who this person was. Didn’t know where they were, what they looked like, or what battles they were fighting. Obviously, they knew him and wanted to keep their anonymity. He was starting to get the feeling that this person was struggling with an old pain that had never healed, eroding their confidence, especially when they thanked him.

I hope you don’t feel alone right now,he thought silently,because this has been really nice to have someone to talk to besides the guys in my squadron.

Looking around the room full of racks, he saw his friends busy doing different things in the peace of their bunks. Some had a book, a few were doing crosswords, one was listening to headphones, and while he was close to them, there was something different about texting this mysterious person that brought him joy for the first time in forever.

He truly enjoyed talking with whoever was on the other end of the text messages.

CHAPTER FIVE

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