Soulmates

By Angela Walker

Cameron and Christian don't think they are any different then other people making relationships work. They've convinced themselves that regardless of some of the challenges, their choice of mates is right. Yet an unsettling feeling tells them otherwise. Their refusal to explore that feeling has them settling for a life that is seemingly happy.
An inexplicable sadness creeps into their hearts. There is no rhyme or reason. Yet there is suddenly a sense of urgency to find...something...someone...
Circumstance forces them to face devastating revelations and so they begin to search. Amid the chaos and heartache, they find themselves questioning and exploring who they really are. Never in their wildest dreams could they imagine discovering what they do.
A journey filled with pain, love and happiness that opens their eyes to the essence of soulmates.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Angela Walker
• Release date: Aug 7, 2011
• ISBN: 9781465863096

Angela Walker

Angela Walker was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. Early on Angela discovered her love for writing. Poetry and short stories were her creative outlet. Then she dared to pen her first novel, then second and finally a third. When she became a Mom she tucked away her pens and paper to focus on raising her family. The passion for writing never waned. She had played with the idea to write for children but promised herself that she would only go in that vein if she came up with an idea that she could embrace. That idea came to fruition through a dinner conversation with her children and husband. Harry Purple Monkey Dishwasher was born. A character that would be childlike, because children inspired her. Their laughter, thirst to learn, willingness to ask questions, to wonder and to explore without inhibitions. Harry would be all that and more. The only way to do that was to create a series of adventure stories that had great life lessons and bring the child through a journey of self discovery; to provide the characters in 3D form so to encourage imaginative play; to offer real time experiences and adventures daily with Harry through social media and to bring the stories to life through storytelling.

Book preview

SOULMATES

By

Angela Walker

**********

Published by Angela Walker on Smashwords

Soulmates

Copyright © by Angela Walker

Book Design

By

Rachel George

Smashwords Edition License Notes

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CHAPTER ONE

The stream rushed past them as they watched the rays of sunlight play on the water’s surface. They stood in the lush green grass, their bare feet cushioned as they brushed their toes across the silky blades. Without a word, they turned and strolled along the bank, shaded by the towering trees. Sounds of the songbird’s melody harmonized with the song in their hearts. They stopped to feel a slight breeze brush across their bodies and embrace them. All of nature’s elements moved in synchronicity inviting them to become a part of its flow.

They smiled lovingly at one another and savored the tingling energy that flowed between them; a special energy shared only by soul mates. Their hearts entwined in each other’s essence, heightening their senses.

Their moment of bliss was interrupted when they became aware of a soft voice that echoed in the distance. It whispered to them that it was time. The elation of the moment transformed into sadness as they realized it was time to part. They turned to one another and gazed deeply into each other’s eyes. In desperation, they tried to lock their soul mate into memory. Memories that would be buried deep in their mind, soon to be lost in the realm of the physical world. They moved closer and their lips gently touched, sending a burst of love racing through their bodies as they embraced. The physical realm began to pull them apart and into its capsule of time. Following one final glimpse of each other, he vanished, leaving her behind in their paradise, until they would once again be together.

Can you bear down one more time Mrs. Summers? Dr. Blair encouraged.

The labour had been long and Kirsten wasn’t sure she had enough strength to push anymore. She gripped her husband’s hand and with all her might she mustered enough strength to bear down and push the rest of her baby out. She fell back and watched anxiously as Dr. Blair lifted the baby and cradled it in his arms.

You have a boy! Dr. Blair exclaimed. His eyes were beaming as he looked at Kirsten and Alexander.

Kirsten watched as Dr. Blair placed the baby on her chest. The cold air and bright lights shocked the baby who wasted no time belting out his first cry. Kirsten gently placed her hand on his tiny body and wept tears of joy. He’s so beautiful Alexander!

Alexander bent over and kissed her cheek. He sure is. What do you say we name him Christian?

Kirsten could barely mouth the words as she nodded agreement. That would be wonderful!

Alexander was overcome by the moment, as tears filled his eyes. He wrestled with his thoughts. How was it possible to feel happiness of the birth of his son and sadness that his wife had so little time left to live?

He thought about the challenges Kirsten overcame while she carried their child and the time she almost lost him early on in the pregnancy. The cancerous tumor in her breast that was discovered five months into her pregnancy turned a happy event into a difficult time. She struggled to carry the baby and live with the growing cancer. He remembered the arguments they had about possibly aborting the child so that she could undergo chemotherapy. She had fought him every step of the way, insisting that the child had been sent to them for a purpose. His arguments fell on deaf ears as she stood by her decision to carry the baby. In her heart she felt that she would be able to deal with the cancer after the birth. She believed in miracles.

The cascading snow outside her window warned of the storm that White Rock, Vancouver had been bracing for all day. The night had set in but Kirsten was too excited to rest. She sat by the window holding her son close, humming the lullaby her mother used to sing when she was a little child. In the distance she could hear the cries of other newborns looking for comfort and warmth. Christian was fast asleep though; content to be with his mother. She fixed her gaze on his tiny round face and brushed her hand against his silky blonde hair. She wished she could freeze time or will the cancer away so that she could shower her son with love as he grew into a young man. As she fought back her tears she inhaled the scent of her newborn child and prayed for a miracle.

The rustling of the leaves awakened her from her sleep. Slowly she opened her eyes to witness the dawn of a new day. Quietly she lay enveloped by the serenity around her. It had been a few years since her soul mate had embarked on his journey and although the spirits around her offered comfort she ached to be with him again. As she ran her hand through her long hair she envisioned him before her. What she would do to once again run her hands across his face and kiss his lips. Her heart swelled with love; a love so intense she could barely stand it. She often wondered about her journey and how she fit in the whole scheme of things; but never did she dare question it. She could only listen for the voice that would beckon her and wait for the time she would be reunited with her soul mate.

Amongst the sounds of the trees and stream, she picked up a distinct sound, one she heard several years ago. Her heart began to race as she recognized the sound. Her arms spread wide as she lifted her face to the warm sun and anxiously waited to be pulled into the physical realm. It did not take long for a magnificent light to surround her and instantly transport her away from the only place she had ever known. A place she would return when her journey was complete.

The traffic seemed heavier than usual as Adam inched through the intersection. Looking anxiously over at his wife he asked, Diana do you think you’ll be okay?

Diana held her hand under her protruding belly and continued to breathe as she had learned in her Lamaze class. The contractions are coming faster. I don’t think we have much time.

Adam tried to find a side street to slip into and make his way to the hospital. We should be there in about five minutes. Is that too long?

Just as Diana was about to answer, a warm sensation rushed along the insides of her leg. Oh my gosh! I’m pretty sure that was just my water that broke!

He tried to remain calm as he pressed his foot on the gas and raced through a few more side streets. He arrived in front of the emergency entrance with little time to spare. Without delay, he swung his door open and sprinted around the car to Diana’s side. Can you walk?

Diana half-smiled as she slipped out of the car, her lower body was dripping wet. I’ll be fine to waaaaa….

Adam took a hold of Diana as she crouched down in pain. He signaled a nurse through the glass door as he helped Diana to a waiting bed. The corridor seemed endless as they hurried her to the birthing room.

Barely inside, Diana screamed, I feel like pushing!

The nurses scrambled around her as Dr. Walters washed his hands and said jokingly If you want to start Mrs. Harrington, go ahead, we’ll catch the little one!

The nurses realized there was no time to hook her up to the monitor. They prepared her as quickly as they could. This baby was not waiting for anything.

Diana laughed as she propped herself up on the birthing bed and clenched her hands around the railing. Filled with anxiety she began to push unsure of what to expect. The pain was unbearable but she continued to concentrate on her breathing.

Dr. Walters positioned himself and smiled as he saw the head appear. It won’t be long now! She felt the need to push again and the sensation of the head slipping through her narrow passage sent an incredible sensation through her body. One more time. Dr. Walters called out as he held the baby’s head. With a final push, the shoulders and body slipped out easily. Diana fell back and beamed as she heard Dr. Walters exclaim, Mrs. Harrington, you have a baby girl! He leaned forward and placed her into Diana’s arms.

Diana stared in amazement at her beautiful daughter who squirmed in her arms preparing to belt out her first cry. She looked over at her husband Adam. Her lip quivered as she said. She looks like a Cameron. What do you think?

Adam moved closer to Diana and wrapped his arm around her. They had both decided to name their child Cameron, whether it was a boy or girl. The name held a special meaning to them since it was his mother’s name; a mother he lost to an untimely death just a few weeks before the birth of his first child. His heart brimmed with love as he held back the tears and replied. Yes, she definitely looks like our little Cameron.

As her name escaped his lips, Cameron cried out.

Dr. Walters just managed to contain his laughter and remarked, Well look at that. It’s as if she knows her name!

Diana beamed with pride. I have a feeling she knows.

The storm had subsided leaving the city covered in snow. Diana quietly stared in awe at the tiny baby that lay next to her. This was a moment she thought could not arrive soon enough. Since discovering she was expecting a child, she was counting the days eagerly. Carefully she ran her finger along Cameron's tiny face memorizing her features. She scooped Cameron off the bed and stroked the delicate short strands of light brown hair that scarcely covered her head. Diana kissed her forehead and held Cameron close to her. So many emotions washed over her; the uncertainty and fear of failing as a mother, and an intense love for this little being that needed her so much. The fear slowly dissipated as she took in a deep breath and smiled. Now she was a mother.

CHAPTER TWO

The dark clouds moved in quickly, and sounds of thunder clapping in the distance alerted Christian and his buddies to head for shore. Christian moved to the steering wheel and tossed his long blonde hair behind him, then tied it into a ponytail. He focused on the controls as he started the engine and turned the boat towards shore. He could feel the wind pick up as it thrust the water to crash against the side of the boat. He gripped the wheel with all of his strength and shifted his towering six-foot tall solid build to bring the vessel under control. The sprays of water drenched his white tee shirt and tight fitting jeans, revealing well defined muscles and strong wide chest. He wiped his face as he struggled to keep his boat steady.

They approached the pier with caution and he docked the boat, while Don and Dave jumped out and secured it to its post. The clouds loomed as they raced along the dock towards the pub they frequented only a few blocks from the marina. The sky unleashed its power and the rain beat down on the hot cement walkway, drenching an already soaked group before they found shelter. As the others huddled under a store canopy, Christian stood out in the rain and watched the steam rise from the cement. He thought for a moment how he and his sisters used to wait for storms like this. They would throw on their galoshes and splash through large puddles until their boots were full of water. They were happy memories.

The rain slowed down long enough to give the guys a few seconds to run the last block to the pub. They arrived at the entrance of Charlie’s Pub when a flash of lightning lit up the sky and startled them. They quickly slipped inside, dripping wet.

Hey Richard, a round of beers for everyone! Christian called out to the bartender as Dave, Don, Peter and Larry followed close behind.

You want some towels to go with that? Richard laughed as he propped the beer mugs on the counter. Christian flashed him a smile as they settled into their usual spot in the center of the bar.

Richard placed the mugs on a tray and then made his way to the table, smiling as he passed a couple tucked away in a private corner table. Richard prided himself in his pub. Every picture that hung on the walls and every piece of memorabilia, was carefully chosen to enhance its character. The solid wood tables and chairs were hand carved by his friend Christian. The photos of places were courtesy of his friend Larry. Don, Dave and Peter collected interesting artifacts each time they returned from a trip. The pub had become a second home for the group, and Richard was constantly reminded of them when he glanced around the pub. So how was the boating?

Christian took a swig from his beer and pushed the long strands of wet hair that fell from his ponytail, away from his face. His blue eyes glistened as a smile stretched across his face Aye, mate it was a beautiful day till the clouds came a rollin'.

Richard continued to pass out the beer and laughed aloud. I see the clouds were aiming to dump on you all!

The guys all raised their mugs high above their heads To the rain!

Business had been slow because of the thunderstorm warnings, so Richard took one last look back at the couple in the corner then pulled up a chair. He swung his leg up and around the chair and sat down, resting his forearms on the chair's back. He caught his reflection in the mirror behind Christian and smiled.

Richard had a muscular build and stood just around six feet tall. He had a deep bronze tan and short curly black hair that fell just above his piercing green eyes; a unique blend, which often caught the attention of the women. He had a keen mind for business and spent the last ten years investing his time and money in what his professor believed would only result in failure. After graduating with honours in a Business Degree he took his business plan from that class and followed it to the letter. As it turned out, his instincts were right and now he sat on a gold mine. He looked around the table and rested his chin in the palm of his hand, as he absorbed the sounds of his friends.

Don wiped some of the suds off his mustache as he began to speak. A gentle natured man, Don was taller than Christian at six foot three, and had a much larger build. His premature gray hair, which he blamed on his ex-wife, was kept in a crew cut style, revealing his blazing red cheeks, aqua blue eyes and freckles. Running a real estate company put Don in his element. He spent hours with his clients and seemed to have the knack of choosing just the right house for their needs. He hadn't anticipated that the business would take so much out of him, which ended up costing him his marriage. He accepted blame for not giving his wife enough attention. When he caught his wife in bed with an associate his faith in women was destroyed. Once the divorce was final, he swore off women and spent even longer hours building his business. Did I tell you guys about what happened at the sales trailer for the new sub-division?

Richard sat quietly as Don told of his tale. He stared across the table at his best friend, Christian, who was leaning back against his chair. Suddenly, Richard had a flash back of their high school days. He recalled walking through the massive school doors and staring at the scores of students moving in and out of different rooms and hallways. He could still remember the insecurities he felt. Starting a new high school and being new in town was enough to make any kid feel insecure. Slowly he had walked down the long hallway, trying not to appear obvious that he was lost. As he moved along the corridor, a group of guys standing at a locker laughing and talking caught his attention.

Christian was leaning back against the wall when he noticed Richard wandering aimlessly up and down the hallway. Hey mate, need some help? he asked.

Richard nervously neared the group and took a look at his schedule. Um, I'm looking for room 360.

Christian smiled. That's where we're all headed. You want to join us?

Richard couldn't believe his ears. The horror stories he heard from well meaning friends made him believe that he most certainly would run into the school bully. Yet here stood the first person he came into contact with and he was being nice! Sure, that would be great.

Christian broke from the crowd and placed his hand on Richard's shoulder. I'm Christian. This here is Don, Peter, Larry and that guy hitting on the girl is Dave.

Richard cleared his throat, and scanned the faces of the boys before him Nice to meet you all. My name is Richard.

Christian squeezed Richard's shoulder and commented. Ease up a little Richard, today is your lucky day! We'll show you the ropes.

Richard was relieved and could feel the tension escape his body. Just as he was about to thank Christian, the sound of the bell ringing startled him, making him jump. The group broke out in laughter then casually made their way to their first class.

The sound of Don's voice brought Richard back into the conversation. So anyway, he was caught with his pants down! Don couldn't contain his laughter any longer and belted out a laugh that was contagious. He almost fell off the seat of his chair and the guys all burst out in laughter as they finished up their beer.

One more round! Larry belted out as he placed his mug in the center of the tray on the table, his sandy brown colored eyes beaming. Larry was a foot loose and fancy-free kind of guy. He loved his beer, women, and was loyal to his Saturday cartoons. Christian often said that the day Larry grew up they would all be in old age homes. Larry was from a wealthy family, but to look at him one would not be inclined to believe it. He stood five foot nine, and was an average sized man who dressed in regular street clothes, never outwardly showing his wealth. He appreciated his good fortune and regularly shared his chalet and boat with his close buddies. He wasn’t much on the idea of settling down, so he was always planning trips to far off places or exotic spots. When he was around, he volunteered his time to worthwhile causes and spent many hours with his nieces and nephews. He stretched out his legs, ran his hand through his wet, deep chestnut brown hair and waited for the rest of the guys to add their mugs.

Everyone placed their mug on the tray and Peter quickly rose from his seat. I'll get it Richard. He said as he removed the tray and headed to the bar.

Thanks Peter. Richard replied as he watched Peter cross the bar.

Peter was the youngest in the group. Although he was a thin man, his five foot eight frame was fit and muscular. The reddish brown hair that fell across his fair forehead was thick and wavy. Peter’s green eyes blended well with his fair skin and hair colour. A kind-hearted man, he was married just over a year and was the only one in the group to tie the knot and stay married. He had graduated with top marks in Veterinarian medicine and had a practice only a few blocks away from Richard. They often had lunch with each other and shared