The Space Between Hope and Dreams — Kristine Kathryn Rusch

Before he left to fight in World War II, Jack promised Myrtle he'd be home for Christmas. But Myrtle begged Jack not to make a promise he couldn't keep.
Christmas after Christmas, decade after decade, Myrtle thinks of Jack and his promise, of the life they might have had were it not for the war.
Until Myrtle finally understands that somehow, someday, Jack will find his way home for Christmas.

A story about love, loss, and possibilities that takes us all to the space between hopes and dreams.