by Sherry Kyle
Twenty minutes later, her station wagon rumbled to a stop in front of her sister’s newer two-story home. She barely got out of the car before Drew met her in the driveway.
“I’m so glad you’re here. Come through the garage. Tori’s waiting in the car.”
Ashley followed Drew to their van. Her sister’s seat was tipped back, the window rolled down. Tori’s face puckered. Short puffs of air exploded from her lips. Ashley hated to see her sister in so much pain, yet it satisfied her to know she could help by babysitting her two small nieces, aged five and three. A minute later, Tori’s breathing returned to a normal rhythm.
“Please pray.” Her sister’s voice hitched. “Something is different this time.”
“I did the whole way here.” Ashley rubbed Tori’s arm. “I’m sure everything will be fine.” As she said the words, she hoped and prayed them to be true.
“I hope so.” Tori blinked back tears. “Thank you for coming. The girls are asleep and should stay that way until morning. We’ll call you when the baby arrives.”
“I’ll be waiting.”
Drew walked around the van and slipped in beside his wife.
Ashley waved a farewell as Drew backed out of the garage. The pair drove down the street, the car’s taillights disappearing as they rounded the corner.
Please, God, help this little one into the world.
“I tried calling a bunch of times, but Ashley won’t answer.” Madi handed the phone to Bryan, disappointment evident on her face.
“That’s odd. Maybe she’s asleep.” Bryan attempted to block the doorway to his bedroom so that Madi wouldn’t see Tanner stretched out on his bed. He’d told her several times the past week that she couldn’t keep the dog in her room. What a hypocrite.
Madi folded her arms, her voice small. “I wanted to talk to her.”
Brian shrugged a shoulder. “I’m here if you need a listening ear.”
She curled her upper lip. “No offense, Uncle Bryan, but you wouldn’t understand. I’d rather talk to Ashley.”
How did he ever think he could help his niece? “We’ll try to call her again in the morning. In the meantime, get some sleep, okay?”
“Whatever.” Madi rolled her eyes and slunk to her room. She shut the door a little harder than he thought appropriate, but he’d let it slide this time. He was in no mood for an argument and was too tired to deal with anything else tonight.
He quietly closed the door to his bedroom and dropped down beside Tanner on the bed. He picked up his cell phone from his nightstand and typed a message.
HEY ASH, ARE YOU ASLEEP?
MADI TRIED CALLING. SHE WANTS TO TALK WITH YOU.
I DO TOO. WE’LL TRY AGAIN IN THE MORNING.
LOVE YOU, BRYAN
Satisfied with his message, he turned off the light, punched his pillow a few times, and closed his eyes. He drifted off to sleep praying for the teenager in the next room—and what he was going to do about the dog beside him on the bed.
“You want me to do what?” Kayla thrust her hand on her hip and shot Jeremy a hard stare. He was right. With what he had planned, she could’ve stayed in her sweats instead of changing into her designer jeans.
“Seriously, Kayla. You need to lighten up. One night of fun isn’t going to kill you—”
“True, but we’ve got exams coming up, and I can’t miss a whole night of sleep. Plus, driving down the coast at night is a little sketchy. What if the fog rolls in?” She was making excuses, and by the look on Jeremy’s face, he wasn’t buying it.
He laughed. “We’ll drive slow. I promise. Look, I made a thermos of coffee, downloaded a bunch of good tunes, and brought a blanket and a couple of beach chairs in case we wanted to stop somewhere—”
At least he didn’t say sleeping bags and a tent. Her mind was traveling down an odd path. This was Jeremy, not some guy she didn’t trust.
“We could drive down to Santa Cruz or Monterey,” he continued. “And if we’re real adventurous, we can go all the way to Big Sur.”
Driving south to Santa Cruz where Ashley lived was the last place she wanted to go right now. She was trying to forget about her newly discovered biological sister until exams were over.
How could she dodge the car ride without hurting Jeremy’s feelings? “How about the rooftop? We could have a good time right here.” She worked hard at making her voice sound convincing. “The view of the city lights is amazing. We could sip coffee, listen to music, keep warm under the blanket, and talk until we get tired.”
“Sounds like a true adventure.” Jeremy quipped. “I thought for sure you’d be up for it.”
“Wait a minute.” Kayla studied Jeremy’s body language. “This whole arrangement was for you and what’s-her-name. She declined, so you’re testing it out on me. Frankly, I’m surprised you’d plan this type of thing on your first date.”
“Okay, I get that. But we’ve known each other for years—”
“So, I’m right.” Kayla nudged his arm. “For a smart guy, that wasn’t very intelligent.”
Jeremy hung his head then looked up, a smile tipping the corners of his mouth. “I was going to be the perfect gentleman.”
Kayla chuckled. “I’m sure you were.”
“But with you, it’s different.”
Kayla expelled a breath. “And what do you mean by that?”
“You know me. I don’t have to worry that you’d think my intensions were less than honorable.”
“Right.” She wouldn’t admit that the thought did cross her mind. “Because we’re friends.”
Jeremy yawned. “Does the rooftop offer still stand? Sounds more relaxing than driving all night.”
“Now you’re talking.” Kayla grinned.
“As long as we don’t talk about genetics and molecular biology—”
“The thought did cross my mind.”
His mouth dropped open. “Seriously?”
She held up her hands in mock surrender. “Just kidding. I wouldn’t dream of it.”
Ten minutes later, they sat side-by-side under the blanket, sipping coffee and listening to soft tunes coming from Jeremy’s iPhone. He leaned toward her, their shoulders touching to keep warm.
“Am I such a bad guy?” His words were said in a hushed tone. “I can’t seem to find the right girl. At least the right girl for me.”
The shortened date affected him more than Kayla had realized. Now that she thought about it, Jeremy had had a string of bad dates. “You’re not a bad guy at all. Maybe you’re looking for the wrong type of girl.”
“Think so? What kind of girl should I be looking for?”
“One that’s not on the rebound or pining for an old boyfriend.”
“How about someone I’ve been friends with for a long time.”
“That’s a good start.”
“Someone who makes me laugh.”
“Uh-huh.”
“And someone who can share her heart.”
Kayla nodded. “That’s good!”
“Let’s not forget attraction. There’s got to be chemistry.”
“Speaking of chemistry, I have a question …”
He bumped her shoulder.
“Just teasing. Yes, I agree. You’ve got to be attracted to her.”
“And visa versa.”
“Jeremy, you’re a good-looking guy. I don’t think you’ll have any trouble there.”
“You think so?” Kayla could hear the smile in Jeremy’s voice.
“Uh-huh.” She kept her eyes forward and hoped the darkness hid the blush that tinged her cheeks. Why did she admit she thought he was attractive?
Under the blanket Jeremy’s warm hand took hold of hers. “I think you’re not only beautiful, but all those other things, too. I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to figure it out.”
Did she want their friendship to cross this line? Jeremy had never so much as held her hand or professed romantic feelings toward her. Did he mean it or had this last bad date clouded his judgment?
She slipped her hand away. “You’re just hurt, is all. You don’t know what you’re saying.”
“Kayla.” He turned her face toward his with gentle fingers. “For the first time, I know exactly what I’m saying.”
Is he going to kiss me?
She couldn’t leave him hanging without saying something. But at the moment, she had no idea what that would be.
14
“I think it’s best if we remain friends.” Kayla moved away from Jeremy’s touch, unsure of how he’d react—or how she felt. It wasn’t everyday your best guy friend proclaimed his romantic feelings. A knot formed in the pit of her stomach.
Jeremy’s facial features tightened, and his brows lowered over his chocolate-colored eyes.
Those eyes could draw any woman in. Me included. She shook away the thought and concentrated on making him understand her point of view. “I don’t want to ruin what we have—”
“Don’t say it.” Jeremy lifted a hand. “I get it, okay.”
He’s mad. She’d gone and made him angry. How could she do that to the one person she needed most right now? How would she make it through exams—and possibly a reunion with her biological sister—without him?
She let out a breath. “Maybe we can explore a relationship … after finals?” Her voice rose a notch.
Should I have said that? She bit her lower lip waiting for a response.
He gave her a dejected smile. “Oh, I understand. You need me for my brain.”
Kayla pushed herself up from the beach chair, whipped the blanket off Jeremy’s lap, and folded it … or rather wadded it in a ball. “So that’s it. You think I’m using you.” Guilt gnawed at her. Hadn’t she thought the same thing moments ago?
Jeremy collected his things. “Yes, I do.”
“Well, it’s your own fault. You know I’m having a hard time with finals coming up. Why would you choose now to confess how you feel about me?”
“You think I planned this? Believe me. I thought I was going on a date with Amanda tonight. I didn’t know I was going to end up here.”
“Gee, thanks.” Kayla turned away from him. Even the glow of the city lights couldn’t brighten her spirits. She was on an emotional rollercoaster, and suddenly it was all downhill.
“I’m sorry. That came out wrong.” Jeremy came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her shoulders.
His musky scent did a number to her senses. Why’d he have to smell so good? It would be so easy to turn around and give in to her feelings, but she had to keep her head on straight. She didn’t have the emotional reserve to start a relationship, nor did she have the time. Jeremy would either have to wait for her or be content to remain friends.
“I’ll wait until after finals. You’re worth it.”
His whispered words warmed her heart. Growing up, she’d never heard someone say that to her. Do better. Work harder. Strive for perfection. Those were the words her parents drilled into her. Was she worth waiting for?
Jeremy brushed his lips against her cheek. “I’ll be by in the afternoon to help you study. Let’s say two o’clock?”
She did turn around then. “Thank you, Jeremy. You’re a great friend.” It wasn’t much, but that was the best she could do.
“I’m glad you think so.” He picked up his iPhone, loaded a beach chair under each arm, and grabbed the empty coffee containers.
Kayla followed him down the stairs to his car, holding tight to the blanket. She lifted it to her nose. Smelled musky like Jeremy. Could she really consider being his girlfriend?
As attracted as she was to him, both inside and out, he was too good for her, and she could never measure up. The perfection bar was set too high. Why risk disappointing him? Soon he’d grow tired of her and push her away. It was better to keep a safe distance—from him and from Ashley.
A dog’s wet tongue licked the side of Bryan’s face. His eyes fluttered open, and he wiped his cheek on the sleeve of his T-shirt. He glanced at the alarm clock on his nightstand. 1 a.m. “Gotta go out, boy?” Bryan lumbered out of bed. The dog beat him to the door and bolted down the hallway. At least he wouldn’t have to pick up the dog’s mess in the laundry room. Bryan wiped the sleep from his eyes. Having Tanner sleep in his bed proved to be a smart move, that’s if he made it to the back door without stumbling.
Once in the kitchen, he unlocked the door and pulled it open. Tanner beelined to the nearest bush. The dog wasn’t a puppy, yet he acted like one in so many ways. Maybe it was the breed. Bryan took a moment to drink a glass of water then let the dog in.
Tanner took off toward the back of the house where the bedrooms were located. Bryan chased after him and let out a soft whistle. “Oh no, you don’t. It’s the laundry room for you.”
He grabbed the dog’s collar and hauled him back to the small room off the kitchen and closed the pocket door. Tanner barked. Now look what he’d done. Bryan shook his head in frustration. No turning back now. It was either let the dog sleep in his bed or listen to his howls the rest of the night. Bryan rested hands on hips considering his options. He covered a yawn.
Maybe the dog was thirsty. That was a simple fix. Bryan slid the door open a crack, only enough to take a peek at the dog bowl. It was full.
Tanner clawed at the opening, whining all the while. Another mistake. Bryan shut the door in the dog’s face. He’d need to get a spine if this was ever going to work. “Sorry, Tanner. I need to get some Zs.”
The dog barked. And barked again. He’d wake up Madi if he didn’t do something. The last thing he needed was another argument with his niece about the dog sleeping in her room. He poked his hand in and rubbed the dog’s head. “Shh.”
Why not save himself the trouble? Madi would be happy, and Tanner would be, too. And he’d get six more hours of uninterrupted sleep. Bryan smiled at the thought and slid the door open. Tanner jumped up nearly knocking Bryan over. The dog’s entire backside shook with excitement.
“Okay, okay. You win.” Bryan lifted a knee, making Tanner get down on all fours. “But don’t wake her up.” Like that’s possible. At least Madi would be happy.
The dog was practically under Bryan’s feet as he made his way through the house. Once at Madi’s door, a creaking sound gave them away, but not as much as Tanner bounding in and jumping on the bed. “Wait, no!” Bryan whispered the command a bit too late.
The dog settled himself on top of Madi. What?
Bryan rushed to the dog’s side, shoving him off and pulling down the blankets. A mound of pillows lay in her place. His heart sank.
Madi had run away—again.
“It’s a boy!” Drew’s excitement exploded through the phone.
Ashley turned off the television. “Details, details. I want to know everything.”
“Tori did great, but it was a little scary for a while. His heartbeat slowed whenever she had a contraction. The doctor finally performed a C-section.”
Ashley paced the room. “But he’s okay now, right?”
“Perfect. He’s perfect. And he has a bunch of dark hair like mine.”
She smiled. “That’s great.”
“They’re weighing him now. I’ll let Tori tell you the rest when she gets a chance. Can you tell the girls they have a baby brother?”
“Do you want me to tell them now or wait until morning?” she teased.
Drew laughed. “I forgot it was the middle of the night. Maybe you’d better wait if you want any sleep.”
“Exactly what I was thinking. Tell Tori I’ll call her when the sun comes up. I can’t wait to see the little guy. Congratulations, Drew—”
“I’ve gotta go. Something’s wrong.” Panic laced his tone.
The sound of the line going dead sent a shiver through her. Why didn’t Drew hang on a moment longer and tell her what was going on? Was something wrong with the baby … or with Tori?
As she set the phone back in the cradle, an image of a toddler being pulled away from her flashed through her mind. The antiseptic
scent of a hospital and the beeping noise of machines swirled in her thoughts. For the first time, she remembered the tears, wetness running down her cheeks, and how she’d swiped them away with the hem of the cotton sheet, willing her three-year-old body to get out of the hospital bed so she could chase them down the hall and get the baby girl back. She was so small. Who would take care of her now? Where would she go? The long-ago memory slipped away as quickly as it came.
Ashley ran her fingers across the scar on her leg. She balled her fists and her heart pounded in her chest. She had to get to the hospital. To Tori. She had to make sure her sister was all right.
15
“Come on, Bryan, answer the phone.” Ashley shut her car door and walked back into the house. It had taken her a minute to come to her senses, realizing she couldn’t leave without someone to watch the girls. Bryan’s voicemail clicked on. Why would she expect him to answer the phone at this hour? She paced between the entryway and the kitchen. Maybe she should wake the girls and take them with her.
Car lights flashed through the front window. Ashley raced to the front door. She pulled it open as her mom and dad stepped out of their vehicle. Thank You, Lord.
“Did you hear? Tori had a baby boy!” Dad called out. “My first grandson.”
Didn’t they know? Had Drew not told them something was wrong?
Mom approached. “We were about to go to the hospital, but Dad insisted we swing by and make sure you’d heard the news. Do the girls know yet?”
“No. I didn’t wake them.” Ashley clenched her teeth. Should she tell them Drew hung up on her? That he sounded scared? But how could she when she didn’t have more information?
“We should give Tori a few hours to rest before we show up,” Dad said.
Mom stopped abruptly. “I told you in the car that I can’t wait that long.”
“Me, neither.” Ashley worked hard at keeping her voice even.