Breathless by Kathryn J. Bain

the picture of Charlie Westerman. He swore the young man’s eyes glared back at him.
    â€œLet the man at least have some coffee before you attack him.” Lydia rounded the corner.
    His heart stopped when he saw her. Even with all the anxiety she must be feeling, she still captured his breath.
    â€œRiley told me about the photograph,” Matthew said, grateful they moved to a room without any pictures. “I wanted to check on you.”
    â€œI’ve calmed a bit since I first saw the thing.” She offered him a cup of coffee which he accepted. “I’m trying to work myself up to being just angry today.”
    White painted walls held stainless steel appliances giving the kitchen a contemporary look. Wood flooring traveled over the entire kitchen and dining room area. Two high stools with white cushioned seats sat scooted from underneath the white granite island.
    â€œBecause of the picture, Riley’s taking the calls more seriously than just a prank.” Matthew pulled another seat out from under the island. He lifted the cup of coffee to his lips. The steam formed a wet mask across his nose.
    â€œI’m not sure about that. It did bother me though.” Her voice lowered. “Sheryl spent the night. I guess she figured if the caller tried anything, she could protect me.”
    â€œWho needs a nice-looking sheriff when you have me?” Sheryl looped her arm through Lydia’s as they stood against the countertop. It contrasted nicely with the deep, rich brown cupboards.
    Lydia started when a knock at the door sounded. Irritation grew inside Matthew. No one should be afraid in their own home.
    Matthew rose. “You ladies sit; I’ll get that.” He forced himself not to look at Charlie as he went to answer the door.
    Warren held a bag marked Betty’s Bakery as he stood on the stoop. Matthew inhaled the aroma of warm blueberries.
    â€œPastor, what are you doing here?” Warren made his way into the foyer. “Nothing’s happened to Lydia, has it?”
    â€œNo, she’s inside having coffee. Sheryl’s with her. I believe she’ll be happy for you to join us.”
    â€œHello, ladies.” Warren gave Lydia a kiss on the cheek then proceeded to do the same for Sheryl. “I didn’t realize the pastor would be here. I only bought three muffins.” He took the stool Matthew had previously occupied.
    â€œThat’s okay. I ate breakfast not too long ago,” Matthew replied. “One of the perks of living at Anna’s. I only stopped by to check on Lydia.”
    â€œWell I’m fine, and I’ve decided not to let this guy bother me anymore,” she said. “I’ve been feeling out of control, and I’m not going to let that happen anymore either. The anniversary passed, and I’ve decided to move forward.” Lydia gave a slight nod of determination.
    â€œI agree,” Warren said. “That’s why I’ve decided to take your advice and accept that position I’ve been offered in Seattle.”
    â€œI’m glad.” Lydia patted him on the shoulder. “We can’t let this creep ruin either of our lives.”
    â€œWhat position is that?” Matthew leaned against the inner doorjamb of the kitchen.
    â€œI’ll be working for A Higher Calling in Seattle. It’s a large computer graphics company that specializes in Christian work.”
    â€œHe’ll even be in charge of his own department.” Pride carried in Sheryl’s voice.
    â€œI’m somewhat familiar with it. According to a weekly news magazine, it’s one of the top places to work in this country.” If Matthew remembered correctly, computer geeks were supposed to be ninety-pound weaklings. Warren was anything but. His large frame spoke of a weightlifter with his large biceps, broad shoulders, and small waist. He would do well with the workout nuts in Seattle.
    â€œI still hate to leave with