“Of course I do.” He takes them from my hands and holds them so lightly you would think they were fragile. The look on his face was so full of wonderment that I start to cry.
“Audrey? Why are you crying?” He wraps me up in his arms again.
“I just can’t believe this is all happening. When I left Omaha I whole heartedly thought we would never get another chance of seeing each other. I thought my son was going to grow up with just a mother.”
“Never. I will be there for him forever. And you. I will always be here for you too.”
“Do you promise me? You’re not mad at me?”
“How can I be mad? You went to Omaha that tells me you had every intention of telling me about the baby. I’m sorry you went all that way to leave so broken hearted. I will never ever let you feel that bad again as long as I live. Do you hear me Audrey?”
“Yes. What will your Mom say?”
“I already told her I suspected your baby was mine so she’s going to be so happy to find out it’s true. She’s been bugging me a lot lately to make her a Grandma before she dies. Last night though I was afraid I wasn’t going to be able to do that. But now touching your stomach makes me realize that life is exactly the way it should be. Just the way Mom has wanted it. Let’s go tell her. It should make her day.”
We head off to the clinic to see his mom and tell her the good news. Telling my family won’t be as easy. My brothers are going to kill Maysen. Mom, Dad and the girls all know but the boys, not so much. I better hide Maysen when I do tell them. Or the baby and I will live without him forever. I shake my head at thought because there is no way I’m letting that happen again.
21
“Hi! How are you? Of course, I’ll be right there!” I hang up my phone and turn to Maysen and his Mom.
“Everything okay? Where are you going?” he asks once I do.
“That’s my best friend Tracey. She’s in town for a few hours and wants me to meet her at Sally’s. Do you mind if I go? I haven’t seen her in a long time. I’ll tell you the whole story later. You don’t mind do you?” I walk up to Maysen and kiss him on the cheek and then do the same to his Mom.
“Of course not. Do you want me to drop you off? We did come in my car.”
“Oh I forgot. No, I’ll just walk there and let you know when I’m ready for a ride after. Will that work? I’m sorry to run off like this Martha.”
“I am just so grateful you told Maysen about the baby. You two will be wonderful parents. Take care of yourself sweetheart.”
“I will thank you. I’ll see you soon. Bye Maysen. I’ll call you.” I smile and walk out the door of her room. Once out of sight I stop and breathe in deep. Is this really happening? I’m getting the happily ever after? I look up to the Heavens and say a little prayer, that’s all I can do.
*************
“Hey man, just wanted to let you know that I’m going to be a father. Yep, Audrey and I talked today. Yep. I know it’s a little strange to know that I’m going to have a son to take care of. Yep a son. I know it’s so exciting. Why don’t you come to Colvin for the weekend? I need help settling into my new house anyway. Awesome. See you then.”
Carter’s going to come and help me move. That way I can get the house done before Mom gets out of the hospital.
“Moving into Audrey’s brother’s house this weekend are you?”
“Yes we are. The second room will be perfect for you Ma.”
“No son. I’m not moving into that house with you. You’re going to have a family and I don’t want to be in the way when that happens. I’ll be just fine and happy with Ingrid and Sam.”
“No you’re coming with me. Audrey and I just reconciled things; we’re not getting married today.”
“Maysen I said no. You are not moving me into that house. It’s not something I want to do. I want to stay with my sister and you need to have alone time right now.”
“Ma. Why are you being difficult?”
“I am still your mother and this is what I want. When your son is born you can make all the decisions for him. But I am still perfectly capable of making my own decision of where I’m going to live. I appreciate your wanting to take care of me but I don’t need you to. I know I haven’t kept myself hydrated but I will be fine from now on. It scared the crazy right out of me. Promise.”
“Fine. You seem to have your mind made up. I will still come check on you whenever I can.”
“I count on it. And I count on your new girl coming with you.”
“No doubt. I love you Ma. I need to get back to work though. See you later.”
“Goodbye son. I love you. So very happy for you.”
“I knew you would be. I am so happy I could burst.” I kiss Mom goodbye and head back to the shop.
Once I get back to the shop I see that the Blake brothers are there. Oh boy. I guess I’m about to get what’s coming to me now that they know I’m the loser who knocked up their sister. At least that’s how they describe it.
“Hey guys! What’s up?”
“We just came to see how your Mom was doing. Audrey isn’t answering her phone right now so we thought we’d just swing by.”
“Mom’s great. She was pretty dehydrated. Thanks again for staying at the clinic with me. Much appreciated.”
“The least we could do for a friend. But speaking of friends, when did you and our little sister get to be so chummy? I know you said she was just there at the right time, but she stayed by your side the whole time. It was just weird for barely knowing each other.”
“She’s just a nice girl that did a good thing.”
“That she is. Well, glad to hear your Mom’s okay.” Austin says and motions for Austin to follow. I’m not sure if they bought that line or if their still wondering about us.
*************
“Hey Tracey! How are you? Oh my goodness it’s so good to see you! I’ve missed you so much!” I fly into her open arms the minute I get into Sally’s.
“Oh my goodness looks like we have a lot to catch up on! How far along are you? Who’s the lucky man?”
“Oh yeah I guess there is. I’m in the third trimester and feeling actually pretty good. His name is Maysen. How are you? How long are you here for?”
“Only the weekend. I was hoping to spend most of it with you but maybe I’ll have to share you.”
“No, I’ll try to spend all the time I can with you. I’m so happy to see you.”
“Thank you for being so nice to me after what I did to you and your family. That was inexcusable.”
“We all know it was the addiction that was in charge of your life at that time. I take it you’re clean?”
“Yes. I couldn’t touch that stuff again if I had to. It did such terrible things to me or I did those terrible things. The guilt was the toughest thing to get over. Sometimes I’m not entirely sure I’m over it though.”
“Well we don’t hold any of that against you. Don’t worry about that. Are you staying at the hotel?”
“Yes. I didn’t figure staying with you on the ranch would have been a good idea.”
“It would have been fine. So, what are your plans now that you’re clean and on the right path?”
“I’m working in Tulsa actually at an outreach program. I help those who have addictions get the help they need. It’s amazing being able to give back.”
“Tracey that is amazing! I am so proud of you.”
“Thanks. So, tell me all about everyone. What’s been going on besides you getting prego?”
“Aiden and Karlie got married and had a baby girl named Aleah. Austin met Leah and they’re engaged too. Mom and Dad are the same. Not really much other than that!”
“That’s a lot Audrey! I am so thankful Karlie stuck by Aiden’s side after I did what I did to them. I’ll never be able to apologize enough to them. Do they know I’m here?”
“Actually Karlie was with me when you called the other day. She said she’s fine with you being back. She doesn’t hol
d anything against you either.”
“She really is an amazing woman. Such a kind heart. How’s your Mom doing with being a Grandma? I bet she’s the best.”
“She is. Aleah has her wrapped around her little finger and she’s very excited about her first grandson here.” I say and pat my stomach.
“A boy huh? Wow I’m so excited for you. Tell me everything.”
I start at the beginning and once again tell the Maysen and Audrey tale. Last time I told it I wasn’t sure it was going to end with happily ever after, but this time I feel it will.
*************
“Hey. I’m staying at Tracey’s room at the hotel tonight. Could you bring me my bag from my car?” I hear Audrey say when I answer my phone.
“Sure. I’ll bring the car to the hotel for you. You doing okay?”
“I’m perfect Maysen. I have everything and everyone I could ever want. I just haven’t seen her in so long and she’s only here for the weekend.”
“I get it. Carter’s coming tonight too. He’s going to help me get all settled into Austin’s house. Speaking of Austin, he and Aiden stopped by the shop earlier wondering about us and where you were. We really need to tell them before they hear it from someone else.”
“I’ll call the girls and have them tell the guys. That way neither of us loses our lives! Haha just kidding.”
“Not funny at all. I was so nervous around them today I was afraid they were there to murder me. Anyway, I’ll bring your car in a minute. See you in a few.”
“Thank you. See you in a few.” I’m a little disappointed that I won’t have her all to myself tonight after we just sort of reconciled today, but she misses her friend like I miss Carter I suppose.
I drive Audrey’s car to the hotel and wait to find out which room she’s in. I am about to call her when I see her come out of a room up on the second floor and smile when she sees me. Watching her walk down the stairs and across the parking lot towards me has my heart racing and I pray, “God I thank you for such a wonderful person. I thank you for bringing her back to me. Amen.”
I can’t help but smile back after my little prayer. My heart is so full of love right now I might need medical attention.
“Hey there. Thanks for bringing my car. Wanna come up and meet Tracey?”
“You’re welcome. Sure, if you want me to.” I get out of the car and follow her up the stairs.
Once we reach the top she pauses to allow me to walk beside her and she takes my hand in hers. The feeling of her skin against mine makes my stomach do somersaults. Just her slight touch sends me in a tail spin. I still can’t believe she’s here beside me again.
“Tracey, this is Maysen. Maysen, my best friend since childhood Tracey.”
We both say our nice to meet you’s and shake hands. She is not what I had pictured. She is a very pretty woman but nothing compared to Audrey.
“So, you’re the elusive baby daddy are ya?” Tracey says and laughs.
“I guess so yes. Didn’t realize you had enough time to tell her the gruesome details.” I look at Audrey questioning why she had to tell her all of it. She smiles at me and I realize that I told Carter too so I can’t really say much. Pot calling the kettle black I guess.
“Don’t worry I know it was because you two were idiots and didn’t get phone numbers. Sure glad you got your what? Third chance?”
“Third time’s a charm right? Isn’t that what they say?” Audrey puts her arm around my waist and leans her head on my chest. I can’t help but sigh and kiss the top of her head.
“I’ll take it. Well, I better let you two get caught up. Carter my buddy from Tulsa should be here soon too. If you two get bored you can come help us move my stuff around in Austin’s house. Well you can sit and watch.” I smile and lay my hand on Audrey’s stomach hoping to feel my son kick again.
“Protective already? Wow. We’ll see you later. I’ll walk you out. Be right back Tracey.”
Walking to the stairs I try to reach for her hand but she’s slightly behind me and I can’t reach it. I stop at the stairs and turn around to face her.
“What’s wrong? You’re quiet all of a sudden.”
“I don’t want you to leave. I just found you again. Her timing was not very good for us.”
“Audrey, I’m here forever. She’s only here for a day or so. I’ll still be here when she isn’t. I’ve waited for six months for this, a couple more days isn’t going to kill me. Go, have fun. I’ll see you later. Okay?” I put my finger under her chin and raise her face to me. I could look into this face all day long and never get tired of it. Even when she’s pouting like a child.
“I’ll hold you to that. We will hold you to that.” She takes my hands and rests them on her stomach. Just as she does that the baby decides to do gymnastics. We both smile at each other and I’m finally able to kiss her again. All is right with the world.
*************
Maysen’s lips touching mine feels like Heaven. My heart is full of love and happiness. I can’t believe it’s all real. This hunk of a man in front of me is definitely my Prince Charming and the man of my dreams.
“I love you Audrey. I don’t ever want you to doubt that.”
“I love you too Maysen. I don’t want you to ever doubt that either.”
“Never again. Now go, have your girl time and I’ll see you later.” He releases me to go but I don’t move. He turns me around by my shoulders and gives me a gentle push. I then start to walk away but turn back around and walk backwards.
“Have fun moving. I’ll be dreaming of you tonight.”
“And I of you. Always do. Have a good night Audrey.” He walks down the stairs but looks back up at me and sees me still standing at the railing watching him go. I wave and blow him a kiss which he returns. I love that man with all of my heart.
22
The next morning Tracey and I decide to have breakfast at Sally’s. We drive over in my car and walk in the door. Sally greets us as we walk in. I can tell Tracey’s a little timid and not sure how her being back is going to be perceived by some.
“Well Miss Tracey Wheeler! It’s so good to see you hon!” Sally yells and wraps Tracey up in a big hug. I can see the relief on Tracey’s face as she does. I smile at her and hope she starts to heal a little more inside. She might have done terrible things but she’s a changed person and wants to make things right.
“See I told you we all loved you around here.” I smile and walk to the only booth open this morning. I should have known the place would be busy. Sally’s Café is the best place to eat any time of day. I sit down and start to scour the menu because I’m starving. This baby is starving all the time.
“Starving? You look like you’re about to eat the menu.”
“Hey be nice! I can’t help it if this kid wants to eat all the time.” We laugh and finally decide on what we are going to have.
“I’ll be right back with your drinks girls. So good to have you back again Tracey dear.”
“I won’t say I told you so.”
“You just did.”
“Hey, isn’t that your Prince Charming over there?”
I look out the window to see Maysen getting out of his car and another man out of the other side. I’ve never seen this guy before so he must be Carter.
I wait for him to look up and see us through the window and when he does my stomach does flip flops. Or maybe the baby just knows his daddy is near. I wave big to him and smile while he returns them. The other guy with him just shakes his head and rolls his eyes. Definitely Carter.
“Hey, how are you this morning? Get all moved in last night?” I ask Maysen once they get inside and come to our booth.
After he leans down and gives me a quick kiss he replies, “Yep. Just have to finish putting it all away now.”
“Wanna join us? You don’t mind do you Tracey?” I look at my friend who I catch looking at Maysen’s friend like she could eat him for breakfast.
“Not. At. All. Please sit down.�
�� She slides to the wall of the booth allowing the guy to sit down next to her but slips closer once he does. I give her a stern look but she just smiles back. It’s so good to have her back.
“Audrey and Tracey this is my friend Carter. Carter, Audrey and Tracey.”
“So nice to meet you! Thanks for coming and helping Maysen move.”
“Nice to finally put a face to the name. I’ve heard so much about you over the past several months. Congrats on the baby too.”
“Thank you. I couldn’t be happier. It’s a boy did you know that?”
“WE couldn’t be happier.” Maysen says and pulls me closer to his side and kisses my temple. I look up at him and smile.
“I think I heard that fact at some point or another.” He smiles mischievously at Maysen. So that tells me he’s been filled in too.
“So he knows all the details too huh?”
“Every bit of it. Even why he was late getting to the house last night. You know I had to sit there in the driveway for half an hour until this fool came walking up.”
“I’m sorry about that. My fault entirely.”
“Yeah I’m sure you twisted his arm. Anyway, what are you two having? I’m starved. This guy has nothing in his house to eat.”
“Dude, I just moved in. Haven’t had time to go to the grocery store.”
“Yeah, looks like you’ve been busy all right.” Carter motions to me and we all laugh knowing his meaning. I redden a little too but see that Maysen is even redder than I.
We all ate and enjoyed each other’s company for an hour or so. It was so nice to have Maysen’s friend and my friend there with us. More than anything it was great to have Maysen there beside me.
*************
Goodness I love this woman. I can’t believe I get to kiss and touch her. I really need to be alone with her though for a little while at least. I need to make sure she and I are on the same page here. I don’t want to get ahead of myself if she isn’t ready for forever. I’ll go buy a ring tomorrow when the stores open if she’s ready for that.
Third Time's a Charm- Book 3 of the Colvin Series Page 13