Meant to Be Read online

  “Meant to Be”

  A Lesbian Christmas Romance

  Jenny Bloom

  © 2019

  Jenny Bloom

  All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.

  This book is intended for Adults (ages 18+) only. The contents may be offensive to some readers. It may contain graphic language, explicit sexual content, and adult situations. May contain scenes of unprotected sex. Please do not read this book if you are offended by content as mentioned above or if you are under the age of 18. Please educate yourself on safe sex practices before making potentially life-changing decisions about sex in real life.

  This story is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner & are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental. Products or brand names mentioned are trademarks of their respective holders or companies. The cover uses licensed images & are shown for illustrative purposes only. Any person(s) that may be depicted on the cover are simply models.

  Edition v1.00 (2019.11.27)

  www.JennyBloomAuthor.com

  Special thanks to the following volunteer readers who helped with proofreading: RB, Naomi W., Jennie and those who assisted but wished to be anonymous. Thank you so much for your support.

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  Table of Contents

  Chapter One

  Chapter Two

  Chapter Three

  Chapter Four

  Chapter Five

  Chapter Five

  Chapter Six

  Chapter Seven

  Chapter Eight

  Chapter Nine

  Chapter Ten

  Chapter Eleven

  Chapter Twelve

  Chapter Thirteen

  Chapter Fourteen

  Chapter Fifteen

  Chapter Sixteen

  Chapter Seventeen

  Chapter Eighteen

  Chapter Nineteen

  Chapter One

  “Are you serious?”

  Anna looked at the flight schedule to track her flight. As her eyes scan the board, she realized that the news wasn’t good. Her one ticket out of there and back home had the big CANCELLED flashing right across the front of it. It was all due to the raging snowstorm happening outside.

  Anna opened her phone, held it up and found her daughter’s name in her contacts list. She opened it, and then typed out her message.

  Anna: Hey sweetie. Mommy is trying to get home, but it might be a little bit. Be a good girl for Daddy, okay?

  After sending the text, a feeling of regret coursed through her body. Anna hated being away from her daughter for any longer than necessary. She never wanted to leave Nina at home. While her ex wasn't a bad guy, Anna hated feeling like she was missing out on holiday time with her daughter.

  “So, you’re saying we’re stranded here for another day?” a voice said.

  “I’m sorry ma’am. There’s a raging snowstorm out here. We only have power due to a backup generator. As much as I would love to help you get home, all flights are cancelled until it further notice,” the airline agent said.

  “Are you offering free tickets to those of us who are inconvenienced? the woman asked.

  Anna noticed the fiery woman at the counter speaking to the agent. At first, Anna thought she recognized the woman’s voice, but being away from home and in an airport, the odds of her running into a blast of the past was not likely. Anna walked over to the woman, noticing her blonde hair, with bits of brown in parts.

  “Is something the matter?” Anna asked.

  The woman at the counter turned around and looked directly at Anna. Then Anna stared at the woman in disbelief.

  “Lisa? Lisa Silvers? Is that really you? After all these years?” Anna asked in shock.

  “Oh my God, Anna Jackson! I can’t believe it. What an unexpected surprise! What are you doing here?” Lisa asked.

  “I just wrapped up a business trip. Now, I’m trying to get back home. And you?” Anna asked.

  “Trying to get home as well. It now appears we're stuck here for another day or so,” Lisa spat.

  “That’s just great. I wanted to get home to my daughter,” Anna said.

  “Well, it isn’t happening anytime soon,” Lisa said.

  “The airline is trying to secure hotel rooms for our stranded guests. Luckily we have several hotels at the airport. As soon as I have additional information, I’ll update you. In the meantime, here are a couple of complimentary drink vouchers for you two. It might be a good way to take your mind off of things. Then as soon as I hear something, I’ll make an announce,” the airline agent said.

  Anna knew the airline agent was just trying to do her job, but it certainly wasn't helping. However, she looked at Lisa standing next to her and flashed her a weak smile.

  “It might be better than just sitting around here waiting. Then we can catch up on old times,” Anna said.

  Lisa smiled and agreed to have a drink with Anna.

  “You’re looking great. You’re just as pretty as you were in high school,” Lisa said

  A small redness coursed over Anna’s face. She didn’t expect her to be so bold. Anna had been called pretty before, but she didn’t expect it from her. Lisa was one of the most beautiful girls in school. She could have had the pick of boyfriends but didn’t really go out with anyone in particular. She mostly ran around with other girls in school. Anna always felt a bit awkward around Lisa especially since she had a secret crush on her.

  “Thank you. You look just like you did in high school,” Anna said, almost breathlessly.

  As Anna and Lisa stood near each other, Anna couldn’t help but stare at Lisa. Suddenly, Anna found herself as smitten as she was in high school. It was one of those chance encounters that changes a person’s life. Anna wasn’t sure what to really make of her feelings.

  “Anyway, I guess we should use these vouchers for something,” Lisa said.

  There was a small bar nearby. As Anna headed over, she noticed the proximity of Lisa’s hands. It felt reassuring and nice. Anna wondered if this connection could mean something more. Then she had to be realistic knowing that her chance meeting with Lisa happened in an airport. Her school girl crush was years ago and daydreaming about a relationship now was just an unfulfilled fantasy.

  When they got to the bar, they both sat down. The bartender looked at the drink vouchers in their hands.

  “Ahh, I see they’re bartering all of you with some coupons now. Hopefully the airline will also comp a hotel room for you too,” he said.

  “We’ll see,” Lisa said.

  “What can I get you ladies?” the bartender asked.

  “We’ll both have red wine please,” Lisa said. “Perfect. I’ll get your wines. Would you also l
ike some snacks?” he asked.

  Lisa and Anna both nodded and smiled at the bartender. Then the bartender walked away with the drink order.

  Anna sighed as she thought about her daughter and her desire to get home. She was deep in thought when Lisa broke the silence.

  “I just want to get home. It’s been one hell of a week,” Lisa said.

  “You're telling me. This is the last business trip of the year. Now, I’m stuck at the airport. I just wanted to get home and see my family,” Anna said.

  “You have a family?” she asked. She looked almost ashamed for what she said initially.

  “Yeah. It’s just my daughter and me right now. She’s with her dad. We’ve been divorced for a long time. But we’re still friends,” Anna said.

  “That’s wonderful. I hope I didn’t overstep my boundaries,” Lisa said.

  “You’re sweet. He takes care of our daughter, Nina, when I’m traveling for business. I don’t like it when I can’t help her though. I work a lot. She’s a good kid, but I worry I’m not around enough. At least not in her early years,” Anna said.

  “I bet you’re doing a better job than you realize. I bet she’s a happy child who is excited to have you come back home,” Lisa said.

  “I just feel bad when I end up spending all my time at the office, rather than with my daughter,” Anna said.

  “Oh, I understand. I’m a freelance artist myself. While I’m not occupied with taking care of a child or a job, it’s been quite hard for me to continue on for a long time. It’s been a little empty,” she said.

  “So, you don’t have any children?”

  “Nope. I had a partner for a long time, but things happened. I’d rather not get into that. It’s a sad story for another time,” Lisa explained.

  “I’m glad I came over to talk to you. The last thing I wanted was to sit here, all alone, for the next couple of days. This storm is terrible,” Anna said.

  Lisa looked out the window. The whiteout conditions was a beautiful sight, but also one that signified things wouldn't be easy for either of them for the next couple of days.

  “It’s beautiful, but it would be more beautiful at home in more comfortable clothes,” Lisa said.

  “That sounds heavenly. But, I have to say that it’s very nice having you here,” Anna said.

  “If the airline does come through and find all of us rooms, I imagine we’ll have to share. So, I would feel more at ease sharing a room with you. If that’s okay with you,” Lisa said.

  Anna blushed. She didn’t think Lisa was implying anything, but she still felt a little embarrassed by it.

  “First, let’s have a few more drinks,” Anna said, her voice cracking.

  “Fine with me. I figured it’d help us calm down, anyway,” Lisa said.

  “Yeah. We can also explore the terminal. There may be some shops opened at the moment. I also know that the airport has some sort of ‘mini-garden’ exhibit throughout the terminal. If you want to check them out, I would be happy to show you,” Anna said.

  “Sure. It’s not like we don’t have the time. Hopefully, we’ll be able to get out of here within a reasonable time though. The snowstorm is supposed to last a couple of days. But we’ll just get through it,” Anna said.

  Anna was still surprised to run into Lisa after all these years and in an airport at that. Hopefully, they’d make it home relatively soon. There was one last burning question Anna had for Lisa. After a brief second, she spoke.

  “By the way Lisa, does this flight mean you’re back in Monroe? Or, is it just a connection?” Anna said.

  “Actually, I’m in Ashburn now. As you know, it’s just a short drive from Monroe. I have a small apartment, but it’s cozy. After leaving Monroe right out of high school, I attended State University. Then I just stayed on in the city. I’ve been back for just a short time. I was ready to come home after all these years,” Lisa explained.

  Anna couldn’t believe what Lisa was telling her. Maybe it was something like divine providence giving her something she hadn’t known she wanted.

  “Well, I’ll be dammed. You’re living in Ashburn. I still live in Monroe. I inherited my grandmother’s house when she passed away. It’s a good place to live and raise my daughter,” she said.

  “Well, I’m glad that we’re so close,” Lisa replied.

  “Indeed. It’ll make the goodbye a little more meaningful later on, don’t you think?” Anna said.

  “Perhaps. But who knows. This may not even be goodbye. Maybe still a hello that’s just the beginning,” Lisa purred.

  The way Lisa uttered those words to Anna made her blush. It was so perfect, almost too much for her to bear. In a strange way, she felt better than ever before. Maybe being stranded in the airport wouldn't be the worst thing to happen to them. There was something riveting about Lisa, and Anna wanted to learn more. As Anne moved in a little closer, Lisa didn’t run away. Instead she inched closer to Anna as well. Perhaps this was what Anna had been waiting for, and what she desired more than anything else.

  Chapter Two

  The more Lisa looked at Anna, the more Anna reminded her so much of her lost love, Janice. It wasn’t just the pretty hair, the gorgeous green eyes, and the way she spoke. Even Anna’s mannerisms reminded Lisa of happier times in the past. A wave of sadness surged through her body as she thought about Janice.

  “Although I wish it were under better circumstances, I’m enjoying catching up and getting reacquainted,” Lisa said.

  “It sure is. I need to stretch my legs. Would you like to take a walk?” Anna asked.

  “I’d love that,” Lisa said.

  She got up, nodding to the bartender who took the free drinks coupons.

  “By the way, the airport has given the okay to give everyone a complimentary meal. You are more than welcomed to eat here in the bar or you can go to the restaurant in the Gardens Hotel. It’s the least we could do for keeping everyone trapped in here,” the bartender said.

  “Thank you,” Lisa said.

  “Yeah, thanks. Have you heard anything about resuming flights?”

  “Just the same thing. They’re hoping sometime tomorrow. It’ll depend on the amount and how quickly maintenance can clear and de-ice the airport. We’ll just have to wait and see,” he said.

  They turned, looking out the window at the entire place blanketed with snow.

  “This is insane. I knew I should have taken an earlier flight,” Anna said.

  “It’ll be okay. We’ll get through it. Besides, if you had taken an earlier flight, I wouldn’t have reconnected with you,” Lisa replied. She liked telling herself that everything was going to be fine. It made the time a little easier on her.

  “You're right,” Anna said.

  “It’s a pleasure spending time with you. You know, you remind me of someone else I use to know,” Lisa said.

  What Lisa didn’t say was that person from her past was someone who Lisa hadn't spoken about in a long time. Lisa looked at Anna, who smiled weakly.

  “Anyway, we should probably walk around the terminal and check out the art exhibit. From what I’ve read, the exhibits are Christmas-themed. They even put festive lights around. It’s a miracle how this place even has power, but I’m not complaining,” Anna said.

  “I’m not either. I’m just glad that we’re here,” Lisa said.

  The other passengers didn’t seem to pay much attention to them. Lisa felt liberated. It was the first time in a long time that someone who made her happy. Although Lisa hadn’t seen Anna in a long time, she knew that Anna was a wonderful woman.

  Anna had a cute frame, one that was small, but curvy. The way her eyes lit up when Lisa was around her. There was something about the current situation that made Lisa wonder if she’s reading signs that aren’t there. She knew it had been a while, but she certainly didn’t want to do or say something stupid.

  For the most part, Lisa was happy not being stranded in the airport alone. The last thing she would want to do would be s
itting in an airport for hours doing nothing. Now, she had someone else to wait with.

  When they walked around the terminal, they noticed that many of the passengers were out of sorts. They saw them sitting in lounges, on the floor or wherever a place could be found. Some people were on their phones making calls and texting. Others were trying to find electrical outlets to charge their phones. The talk among the passengers was all about their flights being grounded. Some of the store employees were trying to make the best of a bad situation.

  “This is a whole different world,” Anna said.

  “You're telling me. It’s so different when no one is ushering flights. It’s amazing,” Lisa replied.

  “Let’s just hope that flights resume as soon as possible. I guess for now we can check out the exhibits,” Anna said.

  Lisa knew there wasn't much else do other than visit the art installations. Lisa was enjoying spending time with Anna. When they both got to the center of the terminal, they noticed the skylight roof was covered in a white ceiling.

  “Wow!” Anna said.

  “It looks like the snow ‘decorated’ the place for us,” Lisa said.

  “Yeah. Under different circumstances, it would be absolutely beautiful,” Anna pointed out.

  Lisa almost said that it was almost as beautiful as Anna, but she stopped. She wasn’t sure how Anna felt about those type of comments. It worried her slightly since Anna may not even be gay. Anna could be very straight and she just being friendly with Lisa. She just didn’t know. Lisa looked at Anna and thought, “That’s the problem with some women. They ‘seem’ gay until they tell you otherwise.” Lisa had her fair share of women tell her that. While they appreciated her kindness, they weren’t into women like that. It was sad, but that was the way things happened.

  Anna was different though. The way she giggled and smiled, the way she sat close to Lisa without moving away or giving off a different vibe. It was all wonderful.