Candy laid her other hand on top of Melanie’s. “Mel, you really do need to forgive yourself. Look at far you’ve come, and look at how special Doreen’s life is now. I seriously doubt if she would have had a modeling career without the accident and her injury.”
“I know. She probably could have, but might not have pursued it. Still, it’s for gimp clothes. And,” she added, “praise the Lord for the Candy Canes, and for Connie coming up with the idea for that special fashion line and hiring Doreen. You have no idea what you all mean to me.” She dabbed at her eyes. Thank goodness for paper napkins.
Candy chuckled. “Now, give me some feedback, a gut opinion, please.”
“Speaking of gut, what is yours telling you about your former husband?”
“My gut tells me one thing, and my heart another.” Candy blinked rapidly. “I … might still love him.” Her next words were barely a whisper, and Melanie had to strain to hear them. “I really was in love with him, even during his worst moments. But, I knew our marriage was destroyed. I couldn’t deal with it, or him. Mom was collapsing under the strain of Dad dying and my calling her almost every night for advice and support. It was awful. Dev refused to acknowledge his problem, refused to get help.” She looked up at Melanie finally. “I think he’s in a good place now. Totally AA.”
“Idea, Can. Have you discussed this with Rob? I remember he is AA and very successful. Committed.”
“I did, sort of. I was so flustered when I called him a while ago, when Dev came back and caused all that ruckus at the wedding. I was very angry and, like you, did a stupid thing. In my case running.” She held up her pink-wrapped arm, then laughed. “Maybe I need to call him again. Maybe I need to grow up. After all, I was a married woman who should have been able to figure out options to help my husband.” She paused and fiddled with the now crumpled napkin resting on the table. “I was so young.” She shoved her chair back and stood. “Let’s get out of here,” she said, then leaned into Melanie’s ear. “I was only twenty-one. Should have listened to Mom. But, she and Dad married right out of high school, so that was my ammunition.”
CHAPTER SIXTEEN
Rob’s voice was like music to her ears. Such a kind man. He suggested he call Devin and have a heart-to-heart. Candy loved that idea, got her off the hook. She gave him Dev’s cell number.
Rob, wonderful Rob. No wonder he was Cindy’s hero. It was hard for Candy to even imagine him drunk, but she supposed he got very depressed after learning he had MS. Still, he was a kind and caring man. Took after his dad, she suspected. After he reassured her he believed Devin was truly committed to turning his life around, and to Candy, she felt much better. She thanked him profusely and could visualize the smile on his face and the shrug of his shoulders. She congratulated him on his forthcoming fatherhood. He laughed with joy. Then, he put Cindy on the line.
They had gotten pregnant in July, just one month after their wedding. Mom and Bill had married in September. So, Cindy was just four months along. That meant the baby would be born sometime in the spring. April? Nice month. Candy was glad to hear she was over the morning sickness part. They prayed together for Cindy, the baby and for her decision about Devin.
“I always liked him, Can. Thought he was a nice guy who obviously adored you,” Cindy said with conviction.
“Yeh. He did, and still does. It’s a tough call, Cind. Heart says one thing, brain another.” Then she asked the loaded question. “Do you know yet what sex the baby will be?”
“Not yet. Could, but putting it off. My wonderful life with Rob has been full of surprises. But, I know everyone is dying to know. Maybe soon.” Candy heard the excitement in Cindy’s voice. All the other Candy Canes wanted to plan a big virtual shower for Cindy and Rob, but for a boy or girl?
“Oh,” Cindy blurted out. “We have a friend coming to learn surfing from Brian soon. He’s an AA friend of Rob’s from Orange County. He’s offered to bring stuff to us if you can get it to him in an empty suitcase. Good thing about guys,” she laughed. “They don’t pack much.” Then, she asked, “How is the Billy, Nat, situation? Or, should I call it a romance?”
“Never sure with Billy boy, or even Nat. Those two are non-committal. Sorry I don’t have any details to share.” Cindy promised to send the email address of the guy going soon to Costa Rica. The Candy Canes would fill another empty suitcase with whatever the young Lovejoys needed.
When the email came through, its address was [email protected]. Why did it look familiar?
~
Devin was struggling. Not with alcoholism – he had that under control. It was his heart. He finally got up the nerve to call Vivian. She agreed to meet him and said she would bring Bill.
She settled in the now familiar corner table at the coffee house and laughed. “This is becoming more than a habit,” she said. “I think it’s time to carve my name in the table.”
Bill laughed, too. Devin looked curiously at both of them. Private joke?
Vivian reached across the table and laid her hand on Devin’s arm. “I need to be sure you understand something, Dev.” She used her former son-in-law’s nickname and noticed he seemed to relax a little. “I never hated you, just your behavior and how it affected Candy. I did what I did to save my daughter.”
He nodded his head and produced a crooked smile. “I know, Vivian. I hated myself, too.” He cleared his throat and covered her hand still on his arm with his own. “I love her. Never stopped. She was the best thing ever to happen to me – ever.”
Vivian smile warmly. “I know. You have no family, and in a way I suppose we became your anchor.”
“Yes, and I blew it. Maybe I tried too hard and got so anxious about us I used alcohol to unwind. But, of course, it didn’t. It cost me my marriage and my job.”
“But, I heard you got your old job back?” She made the comment a question.
“I have been very blessed. My former manager is now a partner in the firm. He never gave up on me. I recently designed a huge project that has received acclaim.” He grinned proudly. “The final construction should be completed in a few months.”
Bill high-fived Devin, and Vivian used the brown paper napkin to wipe her eyes. “I’m so glad for you. You’ve had a struggle and risen up from the ashes.”
“I want her back, Vivian. And, I am hoping for your blessing. I’ve learned that anything worth having is worth fighting for. I am ready to fight for Candy.”
~
Devin stared at the computer screen. An email from Candy? The email address it came from was hers. The subject line said ‘Trip.’ Aw, she didn’t know this was his new email addy. After reading through it, he understood. Cindy had sent this address to Candy, and Cindy probably got it from Brian the manager of the bungalows. Candy had started her post with Hello, Friend. She said she learned he lived in Orange County and was planning a trip to Costa Rica. Could he take a suitcase full of things for Cindy and Rob Lovejoy?
He wrote back he’d be glad to. He was leaving in five days, so how will they get the luggage to him? Could they meet somewhere centrally? He waited for her reply.
~
Again the Candy Canes were loading an old suitcase Vivian had given them. A few devotional books lay on the bottom and one about what to expect from a newborn, like no sleep! Noelle laughed at that one, and Melanie grinned. Doreen had a free afternoon, and they were all thrilled she could participate. “Don’t you at least have a fitting or something?” Natalie asked.
“Madam Designer gave me the day off.” She chuckled. “The slave driver!” They all laughed at her quip, all knowing Connie drove only herself, staying up all night sometimes to put finishing touches on a design. She had finally selected a name for her designs. The women encouraged her to at least incorporate part of her name, Connie Winfield. All were thrilled when she chose Winning Designs.
They got to work with Melanie supervising the packing again. This time instead of loading corn chips in zippered plastic bags, they stuffed the bags with tubes of l
otion. Some of it was a special sunscreen, and some was special cream for soothing tight skin and reducing stretch marks. “Baby stuff is big business,” Doreen exclaimed. “I know it’s a third world country, but surely they have some comparable stuff there.”
“It’s actually quite advanced in the pregnancy and baby stuff. Great docs and lovely hospital in San Jose. But, Cindy fell in love with some of this stuff online and ordered it and had it sent to Nat’s gym. So, here we are!”
“So, who’s taking it? You ever learn his name?” Noelle asked.
“He goes by, of all things, Will.”
“Another one? At least it’s not Bill.” They all giggled getting a kick out of that.
Candy loaded the suitcase in her lovely new car. They had decided to have Will pick it up at Nat’s Gym. Bill Senior insisted on coming along. Who knew what this Will person would be like, and Bill didn’t like the girls meeting with some unknown alone. Especially, now that Candy was officially his stepdaughter. He jumped on his cycle and waved. He would meet them there.
He got there before them, parked the Harley and decided to wait outside. Now that he was an investor, he had the combination to the lock, but chose not to use it.
A dark blue BMW coupe pulled up and parked down the street a ways. The man approached him with long strides. “Hello, Bill. What are you doing here?”
“Devin? You are the Will going to Costa Rica? My word, I would never have guessed.” He peered into Devin’s face almost nose to nose. “Does Candy know?”
Devin shook his head. “Wanted to surprise her. Not sure if that was wise now.”
“Me, either.” Bill shook his head. “Prepare yourself for a tirade.”
“Yeh. Guess I’d better.” He shoved his hands in his pockets and slumped. “Dumb move on my part.”
“Let’s pray about it.” Bill threw his strong arm over Devin’s shoulders and leaned close to him. “Dear God, We are trusting you in this situation. We know you are a God who forgives our mistakes, a God who rights the wrongs. Let us feel your comfort and security, and, please, give Candy acceptance of Devin’s deception, even though it wasn’t deliberate. He trusted You. In Your Mighty Name. Amen”
~
Candy banged her fist on the coffee table, then slammed her bare feet there and crossed her ankles. Striker lumbered over and rested his jaw on her leg. She patted his head and tried to ignore the slobber. After all, he was showing sympathy, doggie style.
“Calm down, Can. Maybe this was a good thing.” Natalie’s face took on a serious look to match the tone of her voice.
“Yes, look at it as a positive, God’s will. Oops, sorry about the ‘will’ part.” Doreen said.
“I agree.” This comment from Noelle matched a nod from Melanie. All the Candy Canes were around her, except design driven Connie. She had a deadline, but sent prayers. Of course, Cindy wasn’t there – probably snuggled in bed with her hero Rob in Costa Rica.
“Ugh! How could I be so stupid? I should have figured out from his initials. But no way would I have thought he’d be going to Costa Rica – to surf. Or, learn to.” She thumped her heels on the table, and Striker ambled away. Probably too much drama for an old gentle dog.
“Enough! Enough!” Vivian practically stomped into the room. Candy could tell she was upset. “This trauma drama has to stop.” She looked directly at Candy whose eyes lit up with anger. Fury green Vivian used to call them when Candy was a tot and had a temper tantrum. She actually had hazel eyes, the kind that changed color based on light or emotion. “It’s time to grow up, Candy. A man loves you, a mature man who has turned his life around … because of you.” She put her hands on her hips and turned to leave the room.
Candy started to cry. “Wait, Mom. How do you know this?” she managed to choke out.
“I just do. Trust me. And, trust God. HE knows what He’s doing, and He knows all about Devin. Who, by the way, is waiting in his car outside.” Then she turned and left, mumbling about laundry.
EPILOGUE
December
Candy stared dreamily at the filmy dress hooked over the closet door on a satin hanger. Connie had designed it similar to Cindy’s, at her request, although shorter and pale frosty green, not white. Even on the hanger the sheer overskirt billowed making the gown look like it was floating. She wondered if she was overdoing it for a second marriage, to the same man no less. She thought about the simple sheath she had worn the first time in the Las Vegas wedding chapel. No, she deserved this dress, and Devin deserved to see her in it. They were getting a second chance and a new beginning.
Five giddy women burst into the room interrupting her reverie. She didn’t mind, though, loving their excitement for her and Dev.
They all wore street length green and red dresses, perfect for Christmas. She wished Cindy could be here, but she was blessed to have the other Candy Canes. She had told them to choose a Christmas green or red dress, any style, one they might wear again. Just short, please. It was the new vogue to allow attendants to select their own dresses and not be burdened with some atrocity they would never wear again. Natalie and Doreen were the only ones who chose red because they said they hoped to be invited to a Valentine Day date. Theirs were both full-skirted, the hems flirting with their knees. Nat and Billy were an item now, so that date was almost a given. Doreen had somehow linked up with Bill Junior. Maybe Bill Senior had something to do with that. Two models together – imagine!
Melanie and Noelle wore slim, figure hugging green, and Connie wore one of her own designs in green, very understated so she wouldn’t be over shadowing Candy. She was thrilled to have designed a special dress for Candy. After all, the girl hadn’t had a proper wedding the first time. Connie, the social and creative one, couldn’t imagine not having a wedding in style. Elopement! Ha!
Candy looked gorgeous, if Connie did say so herself. Her dress was almost ethereal. Even though the aisle was short, she would float down it on her brother Billy’s arm.
The Candy Canes were escorted by Brad, Nick and Jeremy Cox, Devin’s boss. Braydon escorted Noelle, and Bill Junior escorted Natalie who was Maid of Honor. The red and green theme was joyously Christmas.
Vivian wore a deep green sheath with a flirty little jacket, very becoming to her slim figure. Bill Senior was honored to be Best Man. He not only had a daughter now, but soon he would have another son. The flowers, designed by Braydon, were all white with the barest of glittery green sprinkles on the petals. He adjusted his stephanotis boutonniere and green glitter stuck to his fingertips.
~
Devin stood stock still rigid, hands folded in front of him clasping the ring. He trusted Bill with the ring, but since it was the first and original one he had given to Candy, he wanted to hold it himself. It was a narrow ring with a tiny diamond, all he could afford at the time, and the one she had thrown at him in court. For Valentine Day he would give her another, big and glittery.
Music started to play. He wasn’t sure why he and Bill were standing here in front of the pastor already. He realized he hadn’t controlled his anxiousness. The music was supposed to have been their cue to take their places. But, Bill kindly followed his lead with a firm reassuring hand on his shoulder.
How interesting he thought for the umpteenth time that she had chosen to re-marry in New Hope, the church connected to the school where she worked. He knew it wasn’t the church she went to every Sunday because he had started going to Mariners with her. But, Pastor Steve was special to her. His gentle voice suddenly started to greet everyone. It was almost a stage whisper, so intimate, just for the guests and God.
Pastor’s wife, Patti, played the piano. No fancy organ or harp, just sweet music. Suddenly, the traditional wedding march sang from the piano keys. Did he have the strength to turn around and watch his bride walk down the aisle? Yes, he did.
He glanced at Pastor Steve. His smile was almost as wide as Devin’s. That offered him enormous hope. Bill’s hand gave Devin’s arm a squeeze. They both turned to see a vis
ion in loveliness drifting toward them.
Nobody noticed Miss Dana in the back of the church. She was grinning and dabbing her eyes. Another one of her teachers had found happiness. Little Aaron would be so glad.
THE END
Bonnie Engstrom and her psychologist husband, Dave, live in Arizona near four of their six grandchildren. The other two live in Costa Rica where they surf. The couple share their Arizona home with Sam and Lola, their two rescued mutts in charge of the household.
She used to bake dozens of Christmas cookies in November and freeze them so she would have a lot to pass out to neighbors. Now … well, that was a long time ago. Instead of cookies for Christmas, she writes. Her Candy Cane stories set in Newport Beach, California, where her family was raised and where they have many fond memories, are perfect for gift giving. Or, for just cuddling up by the fire for an inspiring romance read.
She hopes you enjoy Her Valentine Promise and also gift it to a special female in your life. Don’t forget to leave an honest review on Amazon.
Other Books by Bonnie:
Butterfly Dreams
Recipes for Romance
Her Culinary Catch
A Winning Recipe
A Cup of Love
The Candy Cane Girls series
Her Candy Cane Christmas
Her Valentine Promise
Her Wild Ride
Candy's Wild Ride (The Candy Cane Girls Book 3) Page 10