A Journey Home: Book in heartwarming dog stories of love and compassion, #1

By Amanda Chase

THE TOWN OF SECOND CHANCE
A Love Story of Trust, Healing, and a Dog
Book number 1 in the series
If you love heartwarming romance and dog stories, this charming dog romance novel will surely please!

Bliss is very mysterious and has special talents. Where did he come from, and where is he going?

Second Chance was the kind of town that seemed untouched by time. Its streets were lined with quaint houses, their white picket fences guarding blooming gardens filled with vibrant flowers and the sound of children's laughter in the distance.

It is a story of love, hope, and never-ending loyalty of a dog named Bliss.

But when Jeniffer and her enigmatic dog Bliss step off the bus, they are guided to the small veterinary clinic at the edge of town. Inside, they meet Robert, the town's only veterinarian, and their connection is instant and unexplainably deep. Jeniffer can't help but feel a growing excitement, a stirring in her soul that hints at the potential for a profound romance amidst the enigma of Second Chance. The three of them get caught up in the mystery of the town. Can Jeniffer, Robert, and Bliss find the love and happiness they deserve?

As the sun sets on the sleepy town of Serenity, a forbidden love affair begins to bloom.
"I believe this is the right path for you, Jeniffer. And maybe Bliss just brought you to a place where you can find the love and happiness you deserve. She is very mystical and comes from somewhere, nowhere and everywhere," Dr. Robert Reynolds said. "I know exactly what you mean. She is just very special and has special talents. "Jeniffer was stunned at the revelation," How could you possibly know?"
A shiver ran down Jeniffer's spine as Robert's words hung in the air. It was as if they were spoken with a deeper meaning as if a mystery had yet to be unraveled. She couldn't help but feel a growing excitement, a stirring in her soul that hinted at the potential for a profound romance amidst the enigma of Second Chance.

Dive into this gripping tale of a dog named Bliss. Romance, suspense, and intrigue will keep you on your seat until the last page.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Andrew Skolnick
• Release date: Feb 17, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224213450

Book preview

PROLOGUE

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting an orange glow across the picturesque landscape, the small town of Second Chance, Oregon, came into view. Nestled in the heart of a vast valley, surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, this old agricultural town was the epitome of rustic charm. The lingering scent of freshly tilled soil mingled with the crisp, clean scent of pine trees, creating an intoxicating perfume that filled the air. The sounds of nature enveloped the town, with birds chirping melodiously and leaves rustling in the gentle breeze.

But what set Second Chance apart was its unique location. Situated at the adventure crossroads, it was the perfect blend of snowy peaks and coastal delights. The towering mountains that embraced the town were capped with a thick blanket of snow, providing an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Skiers and snowboarders would soar down the slopes, their laughter echoing through the valleys as they carved graceful arcs in the powdery snow.

And just a stone's throw away lay the vast expanse of the ocean, its waves crashing against the shore in a symphony of crashing water. The salty tang of the sea hung in the air, intermingling with the sweet scent of wildflowers that dotted the coastline. Water sports enthusiasts would find their haven here, with surfers riding the crests of waves and kayakers exploring hidden coves.

And when you look to the ocean, riding the waves with synchronized grace, the salty spray kisses your skin, leaving you breathless and alive. The brine taste lingered on your lips, a reminder of the shared experiences and thrilling moments.

With its combination of snowy peaks and coastal delights, Second Chance could find its home in the charming state of Oregon. Nestled within the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, Oregon boasts a diverse landscape that encompasses both mountains and ocean views.

The state's renowned ski resorts, like Mount Hood or Mount Bachelor, offer abundant winter sports opportunities, making it an ideal location for the skiing adventures of our potential lovers. Additionally, Oregon's stunning coastline, with its rugged cliffs and pristine beaches, provides the perfect backdrop for the water sports and coastal escapades that play a role in their story. So, let the captivating state of Oregon be the stage for the unfolding romance, suspense, and excitement that awaits in this beautiful town.

CHAPTER-ONE

Fate meets reality

The searing heat of the desert sun beat down upon Jennifer's armored vehicle as it sped along the dusty roads of Iraq. The air was tense, a palpable mix of adrenaline and fear. Inside the car, her fellow soldiers, each clad in full battle gear, exchanged glances, their eyes reflecting the gravity of their mission.

Beside her, Jennifer could feel the reassuring presence of her best girlfriend, Charli. They had met as children and have been together ever since. There was actually a mutual love between them, an undefined love. Their hands were intertwined, fingers entwined in a silent affirmation of their support for one another. The engine's hum and the vehicle rattling provided a rhythmic backdrop as they pressed toward their destination.

The landscape whizzed past, a blur of orange hues and swirling sand. The scent of dry earth and sweat mingled in the air, a constant reminder of the harshness of their surroundings. Jennifer's heart pounded in her chest; her senses heightened in anticipation of what lay ahead. She knew deep down that danger lurked around every corner. Still, she was resolute in her dedication to protect her fellow soldiers and return home with Charli.

Suddenly, a loud explosion shattered the air, shaking the very foundations of the armored vehicle. In an instant, chaos ensued. The car tumbled and flipped violently, a horrifying ballet of metal and destruction. As the dust settled, Jennifer found herself the sole survivor, surrounded by the lifeless bodies of her comrades.

Through a haze of pain and sorrow, Jennifer emerged from the wreckage, her body battered and bruised but her spirit unyielding. The scene that unfolded before her was nothing short of devastation. It was a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the horrors of war.

Little did Jennifer know that this cataclysmic event would chart the course of her life, setting her on a path of self-discovery, resilience, and an unexpected encounter that would forever change the trajectory of her heart.

A single tear rolled down her cheek as she stood amidst the wreckage, glistening in the harsh sunlight. The future was uncertain, but deep within her, a spark ignited, a flame of determination that promised to guide her through the darkness and toward the glimmer of hope on the horizon.

Jennifer blinked her eyes open, her head pounding and ears ringing. The acrid smell of burning metal filled her nostrils as the smoke hung heavy in the air. The wreckage of the armored vehicle surrounded her, a twisted mass of metal, remnants of the life she had known. Her heart raced in her chest as she struggled to gather her bearings.

Charlie was lying on the ground, blood still pumping out of her head, and Bliss was beside her. At that moment, she wanted to die, too. Her two best friends in the world were gone.

She looked to say goodbye to Bliss, but she was gone. There was a vacant impression in the sand where she was lying. Jennifer had no reason to live. She was able to unholster her 45-caliber pistol. It was painful, but she knew this would be the last pain she ever felt. But then a final gasp and Charli’s heart stopped, as well as the bleeding. Jennifer cocked the pistol and put it to her temple. She pulled the slide back and put her finger on the trigger. She paused a moment to say her goodbyes, but...

A figure emerged through the haze of smoke and dust, seemingly out of thin air. He wore a plaid shirt, faded jeans, and scuffed work boots. The stubble on his face indicated days without a shave, and his intense gaze held both mystery and familiarity. Beside him, a magnificent German shepherd stood confidently as if it had a purpose in this chaos.

"Here is Bliss, good as new. She will never get older. She will always be there for you. She also has some very special talents that you will discover. Jim had this strange aura of mysticism surrounding him. He was different than everyone else,

Jennifer's voice quivered as she whispered, Who are you, and where do you come from? Her voice barely carried over the sound of distant sirens.

The man's eyes, the color of stormy skies, held a depth that pulled Jennifer in. His voice was calm yet laced with a hint of intrigue, My name is whatever you want to call me. I am from somewhere, nowhere, and everywhere. You can call me Jim.

Before Jennifer could respond, the German Shepherd approached, its intelligent eyes locked on her. Jennifer realized her legs were not working. She panicked at the thought of being paralyzed. Still, with a gentle pull, the Shepard grabbed hold and pulled Jennifer from the wreckage. It urged Jennifer to leave the destruction behind. It turned out that a piece of equipment was lying across her legs. Jennifer was so relieved that she could move her legs once cleared from the vehicle. Instinctively, she followed. Just as they cleared the danger zone, the vehicle erupted into a fiery explosion, consuming everything in its path.

Darkness engulfed Jennifer's vision, and everything faded away.

CHAPTER-TWO

A Glimpse of the Beyond

Jennifer's body lay motionless on the scorched ground, her eyes closed as darkness enveloped her. The loud explosion had sent shockwaves through her being, leaving her disoriented and dizzy. At that moment, time seemed to stand still as the chaos of war faded into a distant memory.

As Jennifer drifted in and out of consciousness, she felt a peculiar sensation wash over her. It was as if she were weightless, floating effortlessly through an ethereal realm. Colors danced before her closed eyes, vibrant hues of gold and silver intertwining like ribbons in the wind. She could hear distant whispers, soft and melodic, calling out to her from beyond.

A warm light beckoned Jennifer towards it, its radiance pulsating with otherworldly energy. Curiosity mingled with trepidation as she hesitantly reached out towards the luminous glow. As her fingers grazed the edge of the light, a surge of warmth coursed through her veins, filling her with a sense of peace she had never known.

The scent of fresh flowers filled the air, their delicate fragrance swirling around Jennifer like a gentle breeze. It was a scent so pure and intoxicating that it seemed to cleanse her very soul. The symphony of nature played softly in the background - birdsong harmonizing with rustling leaves and distant waves crashing against unseen shores.

In this surreal realm, Jennifer's senses were heightened, every touch amplified, and every sound magnified. She could feel the coolness of dew-kissed grass beneath her bare feet as she took hesitant steps forward. Each blade tickled her skin, sending shivers up her spine.

As she ventured further into this mystical landscape, Jennifer caught glimpses of familiar faces in the distance. They appeared translucent yet full of life, their smiles radiant and comforting. Their voices carried on the wind, their words whispered secrets of love and longing.

It was in this realm that Jennifer's heart began to stir. The growing romance between her and Charlie, her girlfriend, had always been a delicate dance of passion and uncertainty. But here, surrounded by the beauty of the afterlife, their connection felt undeniable. It was as if the very essence of their love permeated the air, weaving through Jennifer's every breath.

In this ethereal world, Jennifer could almost taste the sweetness of stolen kisses and feel the warmth of Charlie's touch on her skin. Their love transcended time and space, reaching out to her with an intensity she had never experienced before. It was a love that defied logic and reason, drawing her closer to the lighted tunnel from which she had emerged.

And just as Jennifer felt herself being pulled towards that radiant beacon, a voice echoed through the void. It was a voice filled with urgency and longing, calling out her name with a mixture of desperation and hope. It was Charlie's voice, cutting through the serenity of this otherworldly realm like a lifeline.

With one final surge of energy, Jennifer fought against the pull of the lighted tunnel. She pushed herself away from its mesmerizing glow, back into the darkness where her body lay battered and broken. As she opened her eyes to the harsh reality before her, she knew that she had been given a second chance - a chance to return to Charlie and embrace the love they shared.

CHAPTER-THREE

Where am I?

As Jennifer slowly regained consciousness, she found herself in an unfamiliar room. The scent of medicinal antiseptic clung to the air, mixing with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The rhythmic beeping of nearby medical equipment filled the silence, punctuated by occasional footsteps echoing in the distance.

She tried to sit up, her body aching and weak. A soft voice, filled with concern and tenderness, floated to her ears. Easy now, take it slow. You've been through a lot, the voice said, and Jennifer turned her gaze toward it.

There, by her bedside, stood Jim, his eyes filled with relief and warmth, and the beautiful German Shepard staring at her with such kindness. Jim’s clothes spoke of rugged practicality with a touch of refined simplicity. It was a stark contrast to the sterile hospital surroundings. His voice, when he said, was like a melody that resonated deep within her.

Carefully choosing his words, Jim began, You had a close call back there. I found you in the wreckage, barely conscious. The dog... she insisted on leading me to you.

Jennifer allowed her eyes to wander, taking in the room. The walls were adorned with colorful and vibrant artwork, creating a sense of freshness and life. The crisp and white bed sheets offered comfort and solace in this unfamiliar place.

Unseen but undeniable, the affection between Jennifer and the beautiful Shepard sitting beside the bed pulsed in the air. The scent of their shared determination mingled with the unspoken desire for connection. No matter how gentle, every touch and gesture held the weight of an unspoken promise.

Come on up, said Jennifer, patting the bed.

Without hesitation, the dog sprang into Jennifer's arms in glee for being called up. Kissing her face and snuggling close to her.

Welcome back; however, Jim did it. I am so grateful I could cry and laugh at the same time. My baby is back, she turned to Jim," Thank you so much. I am forever grateful.

Then, as Jennifer looked at Bliss, she heard a faint voice, I love you.

Jennifer was startled.

Yes, he can talk to you from a mind meld. No one else will hear him except you.

Jennifer couldn’t believe what she just heard. But she accepted it for a fact. There was so much she wanted to know about Jim. He would tell her when he was ready.

Jim smiled and nodded his head up and down, Yes, a very good match indeed.

As the days passed in that hospital room, their connection deepened. Once shattered and scarred, Jennifer's heart found solace in Jim's and the dog’s presence. Her calm and steady nature, unwavering support, and looking at Jennifer as if she were the only person in the world spoke volumes without uttering a single word.

Jim turned to Jennifer, I will leave her with you now. Be good to her; she will be loyal and loving and always protect you. I will return occasionally to say, Hey," Don’t be concerned with her age. She doesn’t get older, just wiser. We have been together for a long time, but I must continue with my work. And here is another mysterious thought. She will speak to you, and you can talk to her through a mind meld. Two reasons are connected as one. She has very special talents that you will come to see,

Jim bent over and whispered something in the dog's ear. There appeared to be tears coming from both of them. He then turned to Jennifer, took her hand, and patted the dog with the other. He left without another word.

Their love blossomed in this place of healing and new beginnings, creating a sanctuary amidst the chaos and uncertainty. The setting, a microcosm of their evolving relationship, painted a picture of hope, trust, and the possibility of a future together.

And so, within those walls, amidst the beeping machines and fresh coffee, two souls intertwined, their hearts beating as one. The scent of love filled the air, sweet and intoxicating, as their journey of rediscovery and connection began.

Do you know your name is?Bliss." She bent over and kissed the dog on top of his head. I am so glad to see you again. I thought you were dead, and I was devastated. But here you are, alive. What a miracle,

Of course I know my name, she licked Emily on the face. Yes, she could hear her loud and clear. Very odd, but Jenifer didn’t question it. She would enjoy it.

CHAPTER-FOUR

She saw the sign:

The town of Second Chance. She knew she was home.

Jennifer and Bliss waited in line to get off the bus. Her stomach started to tumble, and the nausea began for strange reasons. She was hoping she wasn’t going into a panic attack. But she took a few deep breaths, and it disappeared. Some of the passengers looked up at Jennifer and admired her beauty. She is stunning with her bright blue eyes, down-to-the-shoulder blond hair eyes, and perfect shape. She was a sight to behold.

She got off the bus with Bliss and breathed clean air. She felt much better. Bliss whimpered, and Jennifer reached into her side pocket and gave her a treat, Good girl, Bliss took the threat, and it disappeared in moments. She kissed Jennifer's hand as if to say thank you.

After disembarking from the bus, Jennifer reached for her phone and dialed her grandmother's number. Assuring her that she would be home soon, she let a sense of anticipation fill her. But before returning to the loving embrace of her grandmother, she decided to take a leisurely walk through the town, soaking in the nostalgia of the familiar streets she had missed.

So this is where you grew up? Bliss asked with curiosity,"

It sure is. Remember Charli, she grew up here also.

"I miss Charli. We always had such a good time together.’

I miss her also, Bliss. She was my best pal. I loved her so much.

Jen just nodded her head in acceptance. She didn’t know how she would be when she got back to Serenity without Charli.

Discharged from the military, she wandered the country for seven years with her dog Bliss. But now it was time to come home, with a push from the Commanding officer. He told her she had enough time off from the trauma of war, and it was time to get back into living life. Jennifer walked faithfully through the picturesque old town with her German Shepard, Bliss, at her side. The city hadn't changed much in the ten years she was away. As she strolled, memories flooded back, and the familiar sights of the old stores and businesses tugged at her heartstrings.

Jennifer's fatigue-clad presence caught the attention of the locals. Some glanced curiously, while others averted their gaze, wary of outsiders disrupting the small-town tranquility they cherished. But amidst the aloofness, the faces of a few old-timers lit up with recognition and warm welcomes, their embrace of familiarity cutting through the town's coolness. For some strange reason, wearing her fatigues connected her to the military. That was all she knew ever since joining after high school.

Why are they all staring at us?

"Because we look different than the rest of the folks here, Jennifer stated.

I think we look the same. I think they look different.

You got that right, Bliss.

One couple approached her on the sidewalk, and Bliss let out a low growl, waiting for a command. Obviously, she picked up bad intentions.

Good morning, Jennifer said to the couple.

They shunned her and didn’t respond as they continued their walk,

That was very strange, Jennifer thought to herself. Maybe they were frightened by the dog,

Bliss, the powerful and majestic German Shepard, was a steadfast companion to Jennifer. She exuded a regal aura with her sleek black and tan coat and a distinguished white snout. Leashed to Jennifer, Bliss moved with graceful precision, responding obediently to her every command. The