The Girl from the Resistance: Based on a true story, a heartbreaking and completely gripping World War 2 historical novel (The Dutch Girls Book 1) by Imogen Matthews

Author:Imogen Matthews [Matthews, Imogen]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781837901715
Publisher: Bookouture
Published: 2023-10-09T16:00:00+00:00

The bunker was underground and hidden in nearby woodland. The entrance was so well concealed that it took them several attempts at shifting branches and ferns until Piet let out a shout that he had found it. He led the way down a ladder that took them into a small fusty-smelling room. Once he’d lit the oil lamps that hung down from the ceiling and checked that the ventilation shaft was working, the space immediately became more welcoming. There were comfortable cushions to sit on and a low table in the centre. It was a squeeze for them all to fit in, but this added to the feeling of camaraderie. Trudi found herself squashed up between Piet on one side and Jan on the other. Between them, they talked through the order of events for the following evening and what was expected of everyone. Trudi and Wim would be up on the bridge planting the explosives, and brothers Elco and Andries would be backup. Piet kept stressing that the operation was a team effort and that each member of the group had a responsibility to ensure that the rest of the group were safe. Once he’d finished his spiel, he said, ‘Now, enough of the solemn faces. Who would like a beer?’

A cheer went up. After the earlier tension, the mood between them visibly relaxed, as if everyone just wanted to forget about everything for now. Trudi was just happy to be here, close to Piet, who had taken a seat next to her, and in convivial company. Hunks of bread, cheese and sausage were handed round along with bottles of beer. Once the beer was finished, someone produced a bottle of brandy and everyone cheered.

When the bottle reached Trudi, she took a mouthful. The brandy slipped down, instantly warming her insides. ‘Want some?’ she said, handing the bottle to Piet. She caught him gazing at her and gave him a smile.

He kept looking at her as he took the bottle from her. ‘You’re quiet. Is it about tomorrow?’

She made a sound like a low hum. ‘It’s a big thing that you’re asking me to do. I can’t help wondering what happens if it goes wrong.’

‘Shh,’ he said, putting a finger to her lips. ‘You mustn’t allow yourself to think that. Frans, Jan and I have meticulously been through every detail and we have every faith in you. You’ve more than proved yourself, and you won’t be alone. You’ll have Wim beside you and a backup team keeping close watch.’ He helped himself to another mouthful of brandy and wiped his mouth on his sleeve. He held the bottle out to her. ‘Here, have some more.’

As she tipped the brandy into her mouth, she relished the feeling of being pressed up against him. She noticed him shift his position and slide an arm round her shoulders. ‘Do you mind?’ he said quietly against her hair.

Trudi didn’t answer. Instead, she closed her eyes and leant against his shoulder. As if from afar the voices and laughter washed over her, and she wished the moment would never end.

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