Whirlwind Romance

Stuart didn’t offer an explanation, but wore a wide smile as he approached Elias. Raising his glass, he greeted him with flattery. ‘Lieutenant Colonel Westwood, I’m so glad to see you here! When I sent you the invitation, I thought your busy schedule might prevent you from attending. I’m so honoured you’d find the time to come.’ Stuart’s words dripped with adulation, attempting to win Elias’s favour. Elias, however, took another casual sip of his wine, seemingly unimpressed by the praise. His response was nonchalant. ‘I happened to have some free time.’ Had it not been for Callie’s sake, he would have tossed the wedding invitation in the trash. Elias’s stand-offish attitude did nothing to dampen Stuart’s enthusiasm. If anything, it spurred him on. He nudged Abby forward. ‘Colonel Westwood, allow me to introduce my daughter, Abby Colman. She also works at Rosedale Hospital and was part of the team that treated your wounded soldiers.’ Elias acknowledged Stuart’s introduction with a curt