Zero Ward

By Kim Pritekel

Danny Felts grew up in the heart of the Midwest on a dairy farm, expected to follow in her mother’s footsteps and marry a farmer and become a mother. Danny had other ideas. As World War II heats up, she makes a decision that will change her life forever as she becomes a lie, serving with the Seabees in the Navy as Daniel Felts.

Kate Adams is about to graduate high school in her prestigious and elite San Diego neighborhood when she’s dragged to the USO for a dance with friends and servicemen. There, she meets the person that will catch her eye and her heart, only for jealousy and vengeance to tear her apart.

Are Danny and Kate strong enough to win the battle within and fight for their love?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sapphire Books Publishing , LLC
• Release date: Jan 15, 2016
• ISBN: 9781943353200

Book preview

Prologue

Temecula, California 1968

The air in the attic was hot and stagnant, the smell of dust and long-unopened boxes filling the air. Kate Hannigan and her daughter, Megan, crept through the storage area. Megan swung the beam of her flashlight to the left, crying out in surprise when a tiny, dark shadow scurried out of the light invasion. Hand to her heart, she grinned over at her mother’s concerned expression.

Mouse.

Kate rolled her eyes and proceeded further into the space, her beam aimed further up as she sought out the chain that would illuminate the naked bulb. Bingo, she whispered, the silver glint catching her light. She tugged and suddenly buttery light covered the space.

Megan let out a heavy breath and clicked off her flashlight. Where did Grandma say it would be? she asked, hurrying over to the long hope chest that had once belonged to her mother’s mother.

I think she said in there, but I’m not sure. I know a lot of things got moved around when Dad put all the holiday decorations away last year.

Those words stopped the two women in their tracks. The air became heavy with memories and sadness, a soft sob renting the air. Kate moved over to her daughter and hugged her close, amazed that her baby girl was getting married.

I’m sorry, Megan, she whispered into the hug, caressing the girl’s back.

I wish he could be at my wedding, the younger woman said, her voice sounding sad and wistful.

I know. I’m sure he will be. Kate placed a loving kiss on her daughter’s forehead. Come on. Let’s find that dress. Kate watched as her only child nodded with a small smile and made her way over to the hope chest, falling to her knees as she pushed the heavy lid open.

Kate let out a heavy sigh and made her way over to a group of boxes, pulling a small kitchen knife out of the back pocket of her pants to slice the tape open and begin the search. Her daughter’s wedding was in three months, and Megan had her mind set on wearing the dress her grandmother had married in and had given to her a couple years before. It had gotten stored somewhere in the attic until Megan needed it. Now, whether she wanted to admit it or not, her baby girl was becoming a woman. The tensions had been so high between Kate and her parents when she’d married Megan’s father, she hadn’t wanted to marry in that dress. So, she supposed she was happy at least one of the women in their family would.

The sound of Megan’s voice, calling to her, pulled Kate’s attention from the past to the present. Yeah?

Who’s Danny Felts?

Kate froze as she stared off in the direction of her daughter clear across the attic, her mouth falling open and grip beginning to sweat around the flashlight she held. What did you say? she asked, voice just loud enough to reach across the dusty expanse.

Danny Felts. You sure got a lot of letters from him.

Kate’s hand went to her forehead as suddenly she felt very hot, almost faint.

Look, Megan said, suddenly standing next to her and seemingly oblivious to her mother’s reaction.

Megan held a wooden box, no larger than two feet long and eight inches deep in size. It was a beautiful mahogany box, a mountain landscape carved into the top. A brass latch had held it shut before Megan had opened it.

Inside was a white t-shirt, carefully and lovingly folded to fit inside the box, as well as a few dried roses. Beneath these, a handful of old letters; the postmarked name was Danny Felts. Letter after letter, all but one opened.

And look, Megan said, pulling out an aged black and white photograph, dated July 1943.

The picture was of a man with short dark hair, though his longer bangs hung slightly in light-colored eyes. He was in military uniform, tie tucked into the opening between two buttons on the military-issued shirt, as was the style of the day. The man was extremely good-looking. In fact, some might actually call him…beautiful.

Is this you? Megan asked, finger tapping the beautiful young woman who stood next to him, looking up at him with a smile of absolute adoration.

Kate nodded before she turned away, moving away from Megan and that damned box. Yes, she managed. Her eyes closed as she found herself falling back into history and into a world she hadn’t wanted to think about again.

***

San Diego, Summer 1943

Kate stood talking with a few of her friends from school. The trio had skipped out on the last Friday of their senior year in high school, opting to head to a dance instead. Kate’s best friend, Carol, had heard that a bunch of servicemen had recently been transferred to the base, and she wanted to see them for herself.

Listening to the singer’s version of I’ll Be Seeing You, Kate turned away from her girlfriends, bringing a hand up to make sure her hair was still in place. She and Carol had worked to style their hair all day, wanting to make sure they looked perfect for the handsome young sailors.

"Carol, I’ll be right back," she said, tugging on her friend’s sleeve before she tucked her clutch under her arm and headed towards the ladies’ room to reapply her lipstick.

"Okay," Carol said absently, continuing her conversation with their other friend, Helen.

Kate smiled politely at a couple of boys who turned to watch her walk by as she made her way down the hall that led to the restrooms. The two doors were set in a small alcove with a drinking fountain separating them. As she neared the alcove, she saw a uniformed sailor walking towards the ladies’ room, about to grab the door handle. When he heard her approach, he jumped and turned to look at her with startled blue eyes.

Kate met his gaze, immediately taken by the June sky color. I think you want that one, she said with a smile, indicating the men’s room door a few feet away.

The sailor glanced over at the other door then swiped his white cap from his head, dark bangs falling into his eyes at the move. He gave her a shy smile then headed to the men’s room door, giving her a quick glance before he ducked inside.

Kate watched him go, her heart fluttering slightly in her chest.

***

Mom? Megan tried to get her mom’s attention.

Sorry, honey. Kate smiled at her memory and turned to face her daughter again. He was just someone I once knew. She clapped her hands together in forced excitement. Let’s look for that dress!

Chapter One

Wayne, Nebraska, early autumn 1942

The sun overhead was hot as Danielle (Danny) leaned against the front fender of her father’s 1929 Ford truck, one of the most treasured objects owned by the Felts family. She drank down the glass of lemonade Allison Hughes, the thirty-four-year-old wife of banker Harvard Hughes, had handed her.

How is that lemonade? Allison asked, her high heels clicking on the bricks that Danny had so laboriously laid for her the previous summer.

It’s right fine, thank you, Mrs. Hughes, Danny said, raising the near-empty glass in grateful salute. Her gaze immediately found the ample cleavage that teased over the neckline of Allison’s dress then quickly looked away.

Allison rolled her brown eyes and clicked her tongue, not a single blonde hair out of place. You’ve been doing work around here for what, five years now? Just when are you going to call me Allison? she accused, a perfectly shaped brow raised.

Danny smiled shyly and looked away. Sorry, she murmured. Mamma always taught me to be polite to my elders.

Allison gasped, not missing the playful smile on full lips. Elders, she muttered, giving Danny a playful smack with her kerchief. "Well, this elder has lunch all prepared for you inside."

Danny watched the attractive woman walk away, noting the gentle sway of her rounded hips. Quickly turning her gaze elsewhere, she looked out over the work she’d been doing in Allison’s yard over the past week. The front yard was planted, flowerbed full and freshly fertilized with manure furnished by her family’s own cows from the dairy.

She sighed and pushed off the truck. Guess it’s lunch time. She sighed, finishing the rest of her lemonade and heading towards the house.

The Hughes’ house was the most beautiful in all of town: an old brick colonial with more rooms than Danny could just about count and even an outdoor swimming pool. She figured they had to be just about the richest people in all of America.

She’d been doing work for Allison Hughes since she’d turned fourteen, which had been awful helpful. After the Dust Bowl had ripped through Wayne back in ’35, her family had nearly lost the farm and even their house. Allison Hughes had come through to help, offering to pay off the Felts’ mortgage, then they could pay her back rather than the bank, with less interest on the loan and more time to pay it. Also in the deal, the Felts’ only daughter, Danielle had to work at the Hughes’ home doing odd jobs, as the boys were far more needed at the dairy than a girl was.

Just as she’d been taught, Danny removed her boots before stepping into the lavish home, her worn work boots set on a mat that was set up by the door specifically for her. She padded into the house, wiping her forearm across her forehead as sweat threatened to bead down into her eyes.

As she made her way to the kitchen, she smiled at the couple of passing servants, all of whom she knew well as they all were in service to Allison in one way or another and for one reason or another. Through the swinging doors that led into the huge kitchen, Danny could hear Allison’s voice booming as she barked instructions to the cook and young girl who would be serving them. Danny always felt guilty in Allison’s house, as she was working for Allison too, but was treated much better than the house staff.

Sit down, Allison ordered when she eyed Danny walking her way. Allison gave the girl a winning smile as she, too, sat down, placing the napkin delicately on her lap. I’m sure you’re hungry as a big ol’ grizzly bear so you eat up.

Yes, misses…I mean, Allison.

Allison beamed at her. See? Now isn’t that so much better? Allison grabbed a piece of fresh bread from the basket between them and buttered it, handing it to Danny with a smile. You’ve worked so hard this past week, Danny.

Danny smiled in gratitude as she took a bite of buttered bread. It took all her control not to groan at the amazing tastes. She loved eating with Allison, as she always served the best of foods. Certainly better than the typical potatoes and roast that was served at her own house. Very little flavor, just rib-packing and hearty.

Now, Allison began, pausing as the kitchen wait staff served them. What’s got you so down in the mouth, hmm?

Danny stared at Allison for a moment, brushing long bangs out of her eyes as some strands had escaped from the kerchief that held her long hair out of her face. What do you mean? she asked, knowing full well what the older woman meant. She hated how well Allison Hughes could read her.

Don’t fool with me, Danielle Felts, Allison warned, preparing her cold cucumber soup for eating. I know you better than that.

Danny smiled, caught. She sipped from the fresh glass of lemonade that sat before her, grateful for the cool liquid. I’ve been thinking about enlisting, she finally said, simple and matter-of-fact.

Have you, now? Would this have anything to do with Billy?

Some, Danny admitted, her gaze focusing on her lunch. She felt nervous to talk about it out loud, but Allison was always who she confided in. Guess this would be no different. Since he was killed in the war last year, Mamma and Daddy just aren’t the same. She sighed. And I’m getting real sick and tired of Mamma trying to pressure me to marry the Connor boy.

Allison’s expression turned into a smile. No, I suppose that wouldn’t do for you, now would it? She met curious blue eyes but ignored the silent question. I think it would just about kill your Mamma if you left.

Danny sighed with a nod. I know. It’s just that, she sighed again and sat back in her chair, forcing herself to meet Allison’s frank gaze. There’s nothing here for me, Allison. I feel so darn trapped. ‘Sides, she added with a shrug, I figure the Navy could use another sailor to try and kill Hitler.

A sailor, huh? Allison asked, brow raised.

I don’t wanna be no nurse, Allison. I don’t wanna be no WASP or WAVE or none of those silly things. I’m just as good a shooter as any boy. Just ask Daddy on that one.

Allison was silent for a moment before she spoke softly. Danny, I don’t want to see you get yourself killed. Besides, you know full well they’d never accept a woman.

Danny could only meet her gaze, not sure what to say. She hoped Allison knew her well enough to pick up on her silence, just this once. By her huge eyes, she supposed she’d figured it out.

You could get yourself in a great deal of trouble, you know, Allison said sagely.

Yeah, well, even trouble is better than what I’ve got here. Heck, I’d rather spend the rest of my life in prison than have to marry James Connor.

Allison smirked. Honey, marriage can certainly seem like an awfully large prison cell.

Exactly! I don’t have any interest whatsoever in marrying and having babies and runnin’ a farm. It’s not me, Allison.

No, honey, that is not. Allison picked up her abandoned spoon. Eat up, now. You got more work to do out back.

***

Danny lay in bed that night with her hands tucked behind her head, staring up at the dark ceiling. She wasn’t seeing the shadows of the night nor hearing the distant sounds of the cows in the dairy. Her mind was focused on all that she’d disclosed to Allison that afternoon, as well as her determination to make something of herself. She had no idea how exactly she was going to pull it off, as she knew she’d have to pass a physical, just as her big brother, Billy, had to do.

Billy.

Older than his now nineteen-year-old sister by two years, William Jefferson Felts Jr. had left for the Army when America went to war, one of millions of young men who left their farms and homes to enlist and fight the good fight. Billy was the closest person to Danny and she used to relish his letters, soaking up every word and adventure. Sadly, he’d been killed after a short three months fighting overseas. A couple posthumous letters had trickled in as late as early summer.

Danny could still see Billy’s smile and remember his boisterous laugh. Where she was quiet and shy he had been exuberant and confident. They were exact opposites in personalities but looked a great deal alike. Billy had been tall and strong, his sky-blue eyes turning every head he passed. He wore his good looks well, never in shortage of a date.

Danny, tall and farm-strong like her brother, didn’t know what to do with her looks. She was much taller than most the young women her age, and she didn’t have the same build as the demure women of her generation. Danny had grown up working on the dairy farm, not afraid of hard work; in fact, she relished it. She was well-muscled and absolutely did not fit in anywhere. The boys wanted little to do with her, despite the fact that she was a natural beauty and the other girls didn’t know what to make of her. None of this bothered her, however, as she lived her life close to the vest, her only real friends Billy and Allison Hughes. Now that Billy was gone, she had very little left to stay for.

Turning to her side, Danny stared out the small window placed above the top of her dresser. The moon was high and glazed everything with an eerie silver glow. Knowing that sleep would be far in coming, Danny slid from the bed and lit the lantern next to her bed; electricity hadn’t yet been run up to the converted attic, which was her bedroom. She rummaged through the top drawer in her dresser, where she kept all her secret treasures. Inside she moved the small stack of Sears Roebuck catalogs she’d kept—she enjoyed looking at the pretty models inside—and dug until she found the letters Billy had sent her, including the picture of himself in uniform he’d included.

Picture in hand, Danny moved back over to her bed in the attic bedroom. She ducked blindly as she’d hit her head on the slanted ceiling more times than she could count over the years. The room was not built for someone who stood nearly six feet tall. She sat on her bed near the lantern and looked at the picture, rubbing her finger lovingly over the grinning face of her heroic brother. He wore his uniform with pride and Danny could just imagine what it did for his social life.

She smiled at that thought, wondering for just a crazy moment if it would do the same for hers. Closing her eyes, she buried her face in her hand. You’re an idiot, Danny, she whispered. No girl’s gonna want you, uniform or not. She looked at the picture again, a sense of pride filling her; pride for what her brother had done and what he’d given and she felt pride for what she knew ultimately she would do. She figured it best, however, to wait until after the holidays were over with, not only for her mother but also for herself, as who knew if she would ever have another holiday again?

Danny pushed up from the bed and replaced the picture, covering her little stash with clothing, then shoved the drawer shut and returned to her bed. Dousing the lantern, she lay back down and let out a long breath in the dark, closing her eyes as she tried to find sleep.

Chapter Two

Katherine Kate Adams sat in the dark theater, pinned between her best friend, Carol, and Jimmy Canton, the boy her mother had set her up with. Jimmy was the son of a prominent attorney in town and Beth Adams felt he’d be the perfect match for her only child and that Kate needed to be seen with a different class of friends. All of this Beth had explained to her daughter as she picked out the dress the petite redhead would wear, as well as the jewelry that she felt would complement the seventeen-year-old’s lovely green eyes. After all, everyone always mentioned Kate’s eyes.

Kate rolled those very eyes as she thought of the tense moments over the past few days leading up to the date. She had absolutely no desire to sit in the dark next to a boy she found annoying and unattractive, and she resented her mother’s pestering and fussing.

He stinks, she whispered into her best friend’s ear.

Carol snickered at her friend before leaning forward to check out the poor boy across Kate’s body. What does he smell like? she whispered back.

Onions and gasoline.

Carol’s bark of laughter earned them glares from moviegoers around them, including Jimmy Canton. Carol smiled apologetically and returned her attention back to Judy Garland in For Me and My Gal.

I think he smells like a cat box, too, Kate whispered after a few moments.

Carol met her gaze, eyes twinkling. You are so mean, she whispered.

Will you guys shut up? John, Carol’s date, whispered. I’m trying to watch the picture show, here.

Carol gave him an apologetic smile then returned her gaze once more to the film, neither she nor Kate saying another word for the duration.

After the film finished, the four teens headed to the lobby, where they stood awkwardly for several minutes. Finally, Jimmy Canton smiled at the girls, hands tucked into the pockets of his pants.

Well ladies, this was swell. He turned to Kate. Maybe we’ll do this again sometime. He leaned down and placed a chaste kiss on her cheek. He didn’t notice that Carol discretely sniffed the air as he did so.

Thank you, Jimmy. Yes, it was swell. Well, Kate said, clapping her hands together. My father should be out there waiting for us, so…

Goodnight, boys, Carol said, shooting a teasing grin at John.

God! Kate groaned as they exited into the cool evening. "That was the most awkward date I’ve ever been on, Carol."

Tell me about it, her friend agreed, eyeing the parking lot. There he is.

The girls walked towards Percy Adam’s black 1941 Dodge Luxury Liner Custom, the fedora-wearing man behind the wheel smoking a cigarette. Evenin’ girls, he said around the smoke. Have fun?

We did, Daddy, thank you, Kate said, sliding into the front seat next to her father and Carol next to her.

Off we go, then.

They had already decided that Carol was going to spend the night with Kate, the two girls inseparable since the age of six. Now, eleven years later, they were still attached at the hip. The giggling duo sat on the floor of Kate’s spacious bedroom an hour later, a smattering of records lying across the floor as the music of Tommy Dorsey filled the room. They both sat cross-legged, a pile of letters, opened and unopened, sat between them, as well as snapshots of uniformed men.

Okay, listen to this one, Carol said, her giggles heightened by the sips of stolen whiskey from her father’s liquor cabinet. ’My sweet, sweet girl,’ she looked at Kate, both girls breaking into new giggles. "’When I come back from Germany, I want us to build a house’—spelled house, by the way—‘together. We can have lots of childrens together.’"

Childrens? Kate laughed.

It gets better. Carol continued to read. ‘Our childrens will be part of both us and will someday rule the world.’

Both girls dissolved into a fit of laughter, Kate falling backwards to lie on the floor, her hand coming up to wipe away the amused tears. Oh my god, that soldier needs some schooling.

Yeah, Carol agreed, and a clue, she added, also falling back to stare up at the ceiling. I need to meet a really handsome soldier, Kate. Maybe at the dance next week.

Kate heard her friend but her mind was off and running in its own direction. Don’t you want someone to really love you, Carol? she asked at length, her voice soft and dreamy.

Carol glanced at her friend. What do you mean?

Serious. Kate looked at Carol. These boys are cute and look so handsome in their uniforms but… She sighed and returned her gaze to the ceiling. Don’t you want someone who will treat you well? Maybe actually love you?

Carol was quiet for a moment before she said, As long as he’s handsome.

Kate rolled her eyes, not bothering to add her two cents. Even in her buzzed state, she knew Carol would never understand. In truth, she didn’t understand. All she did understand was that she wanted more than her mother had. Sure, they lived in a nice house in one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in San Diego, but what good was money when there was little to no happiness behind it?

Her entire life, Kate had watched her mother brutalized by a domineering, controlling husband, whom, for some reason, spared his only child of the violence and insults. Even still, Kate had seen what her mother had become: a frail, judgmental, and unhappy woman whose one goal in life was to live vicariously through her daughter. Perhaps in her mind, it was an escape.

A noise brought Kate out of her reverie. A glance to her snoring friend made her smile. Carol? she slurred, nudging her friend, who groaned in her inebriated sleep. Come on. Bed.

Kate picked herself up off the floor and made her way to her bed, glad to be already dressed in her nightgown. She didn’t care whether Carol made it to bed or not as she flopped down, face first.

Chapter Three

Danny sat at the kitchen table, quietly listening to her parents discuss the state of their dairy business and the fact that a calf was due to be born at any moment. As their voices droned on in the background, she couldn’t help but let her thoughts wander. She’d gotten the six cents from Allison for postage to send off three different letters to Naval recruiters, all sent to Allison’s postal address. Daniel Felts had been invited to sign up for service and Danny was more than willing to accept the invite.

The holidays had come and gone, only Danny knowing their significance. She felt a tinge of guilt as her parents had no idea what she was planning that very night. A large duffel bag was hidden under her bed, already packed with some clothing Allison had provided for her: clothing for Daniel.

Danny! William, Danny’s father, bellowed, irritation in his voice.

The girl’s head shot up, eyes wide in attention. Yes, sir?

I’ve been sayin’ your damn name for a full minute!

Sorry, Dad, she muttered, eyes lowering in deference to the man she admired most after her dead brother.

It’s gonna be a cold one tonight and we got that calf due any day now. I need you to check the barn every hour tonight.

Yes, sir, she said automatically, mentally kicking herself, as it would cut into her plan.

***

The early morning air was downright frigid. Danny quickly made her way to the barn to check on the pregnant cow, checking her vaginal opening like her daddy had taught her to see how far the dilation had gotten, if at all. She figured there were still several hours to go from her observations, so she patted the cow’s flank and left the barn. No need for a lantern as the moon was high and she knew the property like the back of her hand.

As she neared the house, she smelled the unmistakable and pungent scent of her father’s tobacco in one of his rolled cigarettes. A moment later, she saw the cherry come to life as he took a drag.

Dad? she called, walking over to where he leaned against one of the posts supporting the back porch cover.

Hey ya, Danny, he said, blowing out a puff of smoke. Want a pull? he asked, offering the smoke to his daughter.

Danny was surprised, as he’d never done that before. He had to Billy, sure, but never to her. Unsure, but excited at this new offering, she took it from between his fingers and brought it to her lips. A moment later, she was coughing and sputtering, a laughing William beating on her back.

Guess your Mamma’s right and tobacco ain’t for no girls. Don’t you tell her I gave you a puff or she’ll have ol’ Jim Baines down here to string me up sure.

After catching her breath, Danny laughed. No doubt. She handed the cigarette back to him, cold fingers picking off a few flakes of tobacco left on her tongue.

They both stared out over the late night before he spoke again. Nothin’s the same no more, is it, Danny?

Danny glanced up at him, and even in the moonlight could see the sadness radiating from his eyes. No, she responded, shaking her head. I fear it never will be.

William sighed, taking another drag. I reckon you’re right. I think a little bit of your Mamma died the day Billy did.

We all did, Dad, Danny whispered.

William turned to her, studying her face for a long time. Go on and get back to bed, he said quietly, walking out towards the yard, cigarette dangling between his fingers.

***

Danny lay in her bed, hands tucked behind her head as she watched the snow fall outside. It was a cold January night and she did not look forward to heading out in twelve minutes to check the barn for the third time in as many hours. Knowing full well sleep wasn’t coming tonight, she pushed out of bed and tugged on her clothes: loose pants that once belonged to Billy as well as a rough-hewn wool sweater to help fight the Nebraska cold.

Danny fell to her knees, pulling the packed duffel out of its hiding place and plopped it on the bed, the mattress bouncing under the weight. She knew this would be the last time she checked the barn, perhaps the last time ever.

Looking in the small mirror hung on her wall, Danny studied the blue that looked back at her. They were blue eyes that so many had told her were beautiful or unusual—or both—but right now all she saw was blue eyes filled with fear. Her gaze traveled to the long black hair that fell around her shoulders. She knew within a matter of hours that hair would be gone. If her mother knew, she’d be devastated, as she’d always told Danny that no matter how beautiful her eyes were, her thick, shiny hair would always be her best feature. Danny didn’t care as her gaze fell to Billy’s picture, tucked into the frame of her mirror. His hair was cut short, bangs falling in his eyes. Many remarked how much of a Clarke Gable quality he had in appearance and style. A look back at her own reflection told Danny she’d have a similar look by morning.

Here we go, she whispered, deciding to check the barn early so she could head out while her courage was still with her.

***

Allison opened the back door, where Danny had been instructed to go. Finger held up to her lips, she moved aside to allow the teenager inside, quickly locking the door and escorting her up the back stairs, used by servants, and into an unused room on the third floor. Once inside, she closed the door, ensuring their privacy and silence.

Someone’s gotta get my father’s truck back to the farm, Danny said, teeth chattering from the cold drive to Allison’s house.

Someone’s already on it. Don’t worry about it. Allison quickly pushed Danny’s threadbare jacket from her shoulders, tossing it to the chair tucked into the corner of the room then turned back to her temporary ward. Let’s get you into bed and warmed up.

Danny nodded, moving towards the inviting bed, where Allison pulled the covers down for her. She allowed herself to be tucked in, Allison sitting on the side of the bed and looking at her.

I can’t believe you’re leaving me, the older woman said, a sad smile on her lips.

It’s only for a little while. President Roosevelt said the war should be over soon.

We’ll see about that. They said the same thing about the first damn war and it lasted four years. She leaned down and placed a soft—almost chaste—kiss on Danny’s lips, shocking the younger woman. Sleep now. We’ll talk in a few hours.

Left alone, Danny brought a hand up, fingers brushing her lips as she still felt the tingle of the unexpected kiss. No one who wasn’t a member of her family had ever kissed her. Even the annoying James Connor hadn’t dare try. She thought surely that Allison was just trying to be motherly.

Secure in her thoughts but nervous of the actions of the next few days, Danny turned onto her side, tucked her hands underneath her chin, and closed her eyes.

Chapter Four

Temecula, California 1968

Kate and Megan sat at the kitchen table, the wooden box open. Kate wanted nothing more than for that box and all the memories it contained to be once again buried, but she wasn’t going to deny Megan her curiosity, a curiosity that had the younger woman once again looking at the picture.

You seemed to really love this guy, Megan remarked, her finger tapping the picture on the table.

Kate sighed, taking the picture in hand and looking at her much-younger self. As her gaze traveled to Danny, she nodded. Yes, I did.

"He’s really good looking, Megan commented, turning her focus back to the box. She removed the folded shirt, which seemed to be a plain man’s white undershirt, careful to keep it in its folded condition. Beneath it lay a ring box. A glance at her mother earned her a nod of permission. Inside the red satin box, she found a simple gold band. From Danny?" she asked softly.

Kate nodded, her throat tightening with emotion, so long ago pushed down. Yes, she finally whispered.

What happened? Did he die in the war?

No. Kate gave her daughter a soft smile. What happened was…it just wasn’t meant to be.

***

A two-year-old Megan on her hip, Kate hurried to the front door after George had yelled for her to get it, as he was getting ready for work. Irritated at the interruption, as she’d been getting George’s lunch packed, Kate finally reached the door, tugging it open. Her breath caught, eyes wide as she looked at the ghost who stood on the other side.

"Danny," she whispered.

Danny stood tall and proud, dressed in full dress uniform, cap cocked slightly on her head and beautiful as ever. A hard blue gaze turned to Megan. I assume she’s not mine? Danny quipped.

Kate’s heart was pounding in her chest, a protective hand automatically coming up to cup the back of the toddler’s head. I… her voice trailed off, not sure what to say.

***

Kate had fallen back to another time. The old pain had resurface, and for a moment, she thought she’d start crying. She was pulled from her memories to see the expressive face of her daughter, who took her hand within her own.

I’m sorry, Mom, she said softly, giving the fingers a squeeze, getting one in return as Kate returned fully to the present with a sad smile.

Things happen for a reason, Megan, Kate said quietly. She let go of her daughter’s hand and carefully replaced everything in the wooden box. It was the past and it needs to stay that way. She pushed back from the table and took the box in slightly trembling hands. This needs to be put away.

Chapter Five

Wayne, Nebraska 1943

The morning sunlight drifted in through the gauze-like curtains covering the windows and right into Danny’s sleeping face. Her brow furrowed as she was pulled into wakefulness. A soft groan rumbled in her throat as she turned from her side to her back, startled awake when she bumped into something.

Eyes opening, she was surprised to see Allison sitting on the side of her bed, an amused smile on her lips. What are you doing in here? she asked, voice sleepy.

I came in to wake you up, but I think the sun did it for me. Robert is here and is ready to cut your hair.

Butterfly wings of fear and anticipation beat at Danny’s stomach as realization dawned fully, pulling her completely into the waking world. Oh, was all she could manage.

You can still turn back, you know,