Chapter 10

Austin was excited about how things were progressing with Jasmine. She was smiling more, much lighter and happier compared to the years he had known her. Jasmine was glowing after developing a relationship with Christ and finding herself again through therapy. They were hanging out more and never crossed beyond the friendship line even though he continued to long for more. He was happy he got her to enjoy a movie, picnic, and dinner. Pursuing Jasmine was a challenge he was up for.

"I am happy you are finding yourself," Austin said serving her dinner at his apartment. "Thank you for encouraging me," she said enjoying the mouth-watering vegetables and lasagna. He sat quietly watching her eat and finding delight in cooking meals for her. "What?!" she laughed meeting his eyes innocently. "I love cooking for you," he smiled. "And I love your meals," she said. His eyes held hers for a little while until she chose to look the other way. Jasmine almost felt instantaneously that he had gone somewhere when his green eyes nestled on her. "So, are you going with me to church?" Jasmine asked. She wanted him to experience a relationship with Christ for himself in and out of the four walls of the church.

"I am not very religious," Austin admitted. Jasmine found it hard to believe this because he came from a Christian home. "Think relationship. Religion came into place because of man but Jesus is about relationships, so Jasmine encouraged him. "I hope you are not turning into a Jesus fanatic," he joked. "Well, I am not but an ambassador or follower. I just love Jesus and what he is doing in my life. And if you want to understand me now and the change that is happening in me, you have to understand him," she explained. Austin had to admit the change and the glow of Jasmine all began when she gave her life to Christ. What it be so bad to go to church with her? He was going to support her and simply listen. He was not trying to be converted anytime soon but was curious to learn more. He believed in Jesus but never gave his life to him despite coming from a Christian home. "Okay, I will go," he said surprising her. She had only brought it up twice and did not want to nag him about it but simply encouraged him to attend. Jasmine's eyes lit up and she clapped in delight giving him a huge hug. "You won't regret it," she said. Austin melted in that hug and connected with her. He did not want to let her go as yet. Jasmine melted in his embrace as well. She was trying her hardest to ignore what was happening between them. She knew they were growing beyond friendship but wanted to be sure before she crossed that line. She had many reservations when it came to relationships and did not know where to begin. When he finally let go of her, she sat back down giving him a warm smile. Jasmine was praying that he would find Jesus for himself. She was convinced now more than ever her life was in God's hands and she trusted him with the plans.