Page 14 of Blessings in Disguise

A woman.”

“Go on.”

He squirmed a bit, saying all this aloud. “I like her a lot. And I’m very attracted to her. I tried to squelch the feelings, but that didn’t work. Every time I see her I…want more.”

“Caleb, there’s nothing wrong with all that. Or is she married or involved with someone else?”

“Not married. I don’t know if she’s with another guy.”

“Then find out and if not, pursue her.”

He stared out the window at the colorful summer flowers right outside the office, then turned his gaze back to Rob. “I want to. But I…I’m afraid.”

“You can be afraid and still go after what you want. Do you think she returns the feelings?”

“I don’t know. We decided to be friends to get to know each other better. We ran yesterday and it was…fun.”

“Again, all this is good.”

He was reminded of his own advice to Harlan when he’d opened up. He should take Rob’s words to heart.

“I…I’m letting her in. But am I ready to do that?”

“It sounds like you are. But a bit of hesitation is normal after what you’ve been through. Investing in someone is a risk.”

Caleb didn’t say anything.

“Maybe dip your toes in the water and see what happens. You can take this slowly.”

“Yeah, that’s what I’ll do.”

“And write in your journal about this. Ask yourself if taking the risk is worth it. Then free write pros and cons.”

He thought of Harlan’s sketch book. “Do you think it will help?”

“It has in the past.”

“Then that’s probably solid advice. All of this is. Thanks, Rob.”

“You’re very welcome.”

* * *

The next afternoon, Gemma was ready when Caleb knocked on her door again. She’d bought a new red dress with cap sleeves and a swirling skirt and chose to wear it today because she knew she’d see him.

She walked around her desk. “Hi, Caleb.”

He didn’t come inside.

“Is something wrong?”

“Not at all. You look lovely.”

“Thanks. Come on in.”

They both sat at the conference table and talked a bit about Harlan, then she sat up straighter. “Would you’d like to come over to dinner at my house tonight? I put a chicken recipe in the crockpot this morning.”

He didn’t answer right away, then straightened, too. “I’d like that.”

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