She started slightly when someone settled into the pew beside her, forcing her to move over. Lily's brown eyes narrowed when she recognized Caleb Halliday. The major was dressed in a crisp blue uniform, his boots were polished, and he held his campaign hat respectfully in his lap. He glowered down at her for a moment, as though she'd taken his seat, then turned his gaze toward the front of the church. Once or twice during the next hour Caleb's muscled thigh actually brushed against Lily's skirts, and she felt as though she'd just dipped a ladle into a thunderstorm and taken a drink. Because
Lily was startled when someone sat down next to her in church, causing her to shift over. She quickly recognized Caleb Halliday, a major dressed impeccably in his military uniform. Initially, he gave her a disapproving look, seemingly irritated at her presence before turning his attention to the front of the church. The atmosphere became tense as the two of them sat together, with Caleb's thigh occasionally brushing against her skirt, evoking strong emotions within Lily.
This unexpected closeness left Lily feeling exhilarated yet unsettled, as if she had experienced a powerful rush. The encounter in the pew highlighted the complexity of her feelings for the major amidst the solemn church setting, marking a moment of electric tension between them. Caleb’s presence seemed to impact her deeply, stirring both excitement and confusion during the church service.
