Starting Over

by Cheryl Douglas

  “How could I have been so wrong about him?” she asked, her eyes fixed on the non-descript folder. “What’s wrong with me? I mean, shouldn’t I have known his only objective was to break us up? He didn’t care about my happiness. His only concern was getting what he wanted.”

  Alex rounded the desk and kneeled as he turned her chair to face him. “Listen to me, you are the most trusting woman I’ve ever known. You want to see the good in people, and I love that about you.”

  “Yeah, just look at where it’s gotten me,” she said softly. “He made a fool of me.”

  “He’s the fool. He wasted half his life here expecting a payoff he’s never gonna get. He’s the loser, not you.”

  She hesitated before speaking, as if weighing her words. “Maybe you’re right.”

  “I know I’m right.” He leaned in to kiss her cheek, wishing she would turn her head just a fraction of an inch so he could take her mouth.

  “What am I going to do now?” she asked, looking completely defeated. “Dan was responsible for the day-to-day operations. There’s no way I can take that on, not with the foundation and the renovation.”

  “Let me spend some time with Angela,” he said, referring to her assistant manager. “She can bring me up to speed until you find someone else to take Dan’s place… or decide you want to sell me half the inn.” He knew that wasn’t the time to push the issue, but he wanted to remind her she could already have the answer she’d been looking for. Alex hated seeing her under so much stress, especially knowing the impact it could have on their baby.

  “She’s only here part-time now. When she came back from maternity leave, she wanted to cut her hours so she could spend more time with her baby.” She hesitated for a moment. “My mother had an idea. I’d like to hear what you think of it.”

  Alex perched his behind on the edge of the desk, waiting for her to continue. He couldn’t help but think that asking his advice was a step in the right direction. “Let’s hear it. What was Jane’s idea?”

  “Well, I’ve been struggling with a few of my aunt’s proposed changes.” Eve looked up at him as she glided the swivel chair back a couple of feet.

  “Such as?”

  “She wanted to turn the inn into a retreat of sorts.” She tapped the arms of the chair, looking thoughtful. “That just doesn’t sit well with me.”

  “Why’s that?” Alex asked, regarding her carefully. He knew she was struggling with guilt for even considering going against her aunt’s wishes.

  “The Lakeside has always been a family-friendly vacation spot. Kids everywhere, pets welcome, fisherman coming and going. It has a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere, and I love that. I think that’s what makes people come back year after year.”

  “I think you’re right,” Alex said, remembering how he’d felt the first time he stepped on the property—welcome, like he was amongst family and friends. Based on his conversations with other guests, he knew they felt the same way. The staff had been with Sharon forever, and they treated every guest like family. Alex agreed with Eve that it would be a shame to lose that.

  “But I don’t want to go against her wishes.”

  Alex stood up, rounded the desk, and settled into the guest chair. “Tell me about Sharon’s vision for this place.”

  “Well, like I said, she wanted it to be more of a retreat for stressed-out, overworked women.”

  “Kind of like her?” Alex said, smiling.

  “I think because of the cancer, she realized she should have taken more time for herself before it was too late. Making these changes to the inn made her feel like she was helping other women before it was too late for them.”

  Alex considered her words, knowing a lot hinged on his response. He wanted Eve to honor Sharon’s memory, but he also wanted her to live and work in a place she felt comfortable. “That makes sense. But maybe there’s a way to carry out her vision while maintaining the essence of what makes this place so great.”

  “That’s what my mother said.”

  Alex smiled. “It seems your mother’s developed a keen sense of what works.”

  “Her transformation is quite remarkable,” Eve said, smiling for the first time since he walked into the room. “She’s proved invaluable in the kitchen, and she’s been dragging me away to do yoga and meditation every day. She says it’s important for me and the baby.”

  “Interesting,” Alex said, running through the options in his head. “What did you say Jane did before she came here?”

  “She worked in a health food store and taught yoga. Why?”

  “Have you thought about how you can put her skills to work around here? I’m talking about a more permanent arrangement.” He didn’t want to overstep, but he could see how much Eve needed her mother. The feeling was obviously mutual.

  “I have. Actually, I thought she might be able to manage the spa/fitness center when it’s finished.”

  “I think that’s a great idea. Have you asked her?”

  “Not yet. I wanted to give it a little more time, just to be sure.”

  “Of course.” He knew he would also be on probation before he earned her trust again. “So tell me about Jane’s idea.”

  “She said we could modify some of Aunt Sharon’s plans. For example, give the stressed-out moms a place to play with their families.”

  “I think that’s a great idea.”

  Leaning forward, her hands laced on her desk, Eve said, “I think so too. We’d still have the spa and fitness center to offer yoga, meditation, and tai chi, plus a variety of top-of-the-line equipment.”

  He loved seeing that sparkle in her eye when she got excited about something. “What else?”

  “We could have a licensed day care so the parents could leave their kids in capable hands while they spent some alone time together.”

  “That could benefit you as well,” Alex said, “and maybe even Angela and some of the other staff members.”

  She grinned. “I know. So you like the idea?”

  “I love it, but you don’t need my approval, Eve. This is your decision.” Even if he bought half of the inn and took over managing operations, Eve’s opinions would always be important. The inn was her home, and he wanted her to always feel that way.

  “I know, but…” Her voice trailed off. She looked up at him through her lashes. “You’re the business guy. You have all the experience and education. I don’t.”

  “Honey, don’t ever question your ability,” Alex said. “You’re on the right track. Just follow your instincts.”

  “My aunt wanted to replace the playground with a serenity garden, but my mother thinks we could give parents a beautiful and quiet place to retreat to while they watch their children play.”

  “It sounds like you’ve already got this all figured out,” he said, getting to his feet. “You don’t need me.” He’d taken a few steps toward the door when she stopped him.

  “Actually, I think I do need you.”

  Holding his breath, he turned to face her, praying his ears weren’t playing tricks on him. “What do you mean?”

  “I’m smart enough to know I have strengths and weaknesses. You’re strong where I’m weak.”

  “And vice versa,” he said, holding her gaze. “That’s what made us such a great team.” He knew they were talking about business, but he couldn’t forget that he wanted them to be so much more. Since she was finally going to be the mother of his child, he couldn’t give up on the forever they’d once promised each other.

  “I think you’re right.” She sunk her teeth into her bottom lip. “That’s why I’ve decided to sell you half the inn.”

  Alex tried to school his features—the way he often had when he was negotiating a multi-million dollar deal—but the inn wasn’t just another deal. They were talking about his life, his family, and that meant everything. “Are you sure? If you need more time to think about it, I’ll—”

  “I don’t.” She stood and walked around the desk. “This is what I want,
and I think it’s what my aunt would have wanted too.”

  “Great, I’ll call James and get him to start on the paperwork right away.” He couldn’t wipe the smile off his face if he tried. “I know deals like this are usually sealed with a handshake, but do you think a hug would be out of line?”

  Eve tried, unsuccessfully, to hide her smile. “I don’t think so.”

  Alex pulled her into his arms and held her tight as he said a silent prayer of thanks. His life was finally making sense again. The only thing that could make it better would be if they were still a couple.

  Chapter Fourteen

  As soon as James heard about their deal, he decided to come out and present the contracts himself, claiming he wanted to witness their union. Eve insisted he bring his family so they could all spend a little quality time together.

  Alex was grateful Eve had extended the invitation as he sat with his best friend on the Adirondack chairs facing the lake, having a cold beer while they watched his kids squealing and chasing each other with plastic buckets of water.

  “It’s good to see you so at peace,” James said, holding out his beer bottle. “Life out here really seems to agree with you.”

  Alex tapped his bottle against James’s as he smiled and said, “It took me a long time, but I think I’ve finally got this life thing figured out. I know what matters and what doesn’t now.”

  “It looks like Eve is right back where she belongs at the top of your priority list.”

  Alex hoped that’s the way she felt. “She is.” He smiled as his godchildren got busy building sand castles. “I was a jerk for letting her forget that, but I know better now.”

  In the week since he’d arrived at the inn, he’d done everything in his power to make her believe the workaholic she remembered was little more than a figment of her imagination. He’d thrown himself into learning everything he could about the inn during the day, but they always retired to that very spot after dinner so Eve could put up her feet and enjoy a cup of herbal tea as she told him about the challenges she’d faced that day.

  They were getting closer, he could feel it. Instead of rushing it, he was letting her set the pace for their new relationship. He knew she still loved him as much as he loved her, and when the time was right, they would find their way back to each other. He just had to be patient and let her decide when she was ready.

  “I can’t believe you’re going to be a dad,” James said, chuckling. “Your life is going to change in ways you can’t even imagine.”

  “Bring it on,” Alex said, waving to a neighbor docking his boat. “I’m ready.”

  James gave him a sidelong glance. “I actually believe that. And can I just say, it’s about time.”

  Alex laughed. “It happened when the time was right, man. You can’t rush these things.”

  “You still think that? I mean, wouldn’t it have been better if you’d found out before, so you could have put the divorce on hold?”

  Alex had thought about that a lot, but he believed the divorce had been a blessing. It made them see what they stood to lose if they didn’t make their relationship a priority. “No, I think we’re right where we’re supposed to be.”

  “But you do want to re-marry her, don’t you?”

  “Eventually, when she’s ready.” Alex tipped his beer bottle back as he watched Jade’s older brother crush her sand castle. They reminded him of him and Tonya, though the age gap had prevented them from playing together. He wanted his kids to be closer in age so they could grow up together. He let his mind drift, imagining the incredible life he and Eve would have together, right there, in the place she’d always considered home.

  Jane sprinted toward them, a rare look of panic on her face. “Alex, Eve needs you.”

  “What is it?” he asked, jumping up. “Is she all right?”

  Turning her back to James, Jane whispered, “She’s cramping and bleeding. I think you’d better get her to the hospital right away.”

  ***

  Eve lay in the hospital bed waiting for the doctor and holding Alex’s hand. She knew they were both praying for their baby, afraid to speak, almost afraid to breathe. The technician had been in to do an ultrasound, but when Eve asked about her baby’s condition, the young woman just told her the doctor would fill her in. Waiting was killing her almost as much as the silence.

  When she couldn’t stand it another second, she whispered, “What’s taking the doctor so long?”

  “She’ll be in soon,” Alex said, kissing her hand. “Try not to worry.”

  “How can I not?” A tear slid down her cheek, disappearing into her hairline. “I’ve wanted this baby for so long. And now…” She didn’t want to think the worst, but her mind seemed determined to make her go there. “What if I lose it?”

  Given their marital status, they couldn’t just try again. Her marriage was over, and that may be her last chance to have a baby. By the time she met someone else, it would be too late. Precious years lost to a dream that never came true.

  “You won’t,” he whispered. “Don’t even think that.”

  She saw the fear in his eyes. Alex, a man used to dominating every situation, felt as helpless as she did, and that scared her even more. If he was worried, it was with good reason. Alex wasn’t the kind of man who panicked unless it was justified.

  “Good evening, folks,” Dr. Jefferson said, smiling as she entered the room. “Sorry I took so long. I have another patient delivering tonight, and I needed to check on her.”

  Eve couldn’t help to feel a twinge of envy when she thought of the woman who’d carried her baby to term. In a matter of hours, that woman would be welcoming a new life into the world. Eve just prayed they wouldn’t be saying good-bye to the little life she’d carried for such a short time.

  Alex stood and offered his hand to the doctor. “Alex Bolton.”

  At the moment, Eve didn’t care whether the doctor assumed she and Alex were still married. She just wanted to know that her baby was okay.

  “It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Dr. Jefferson said, smiling warmly at Alex as she gripped his hand. She turned her attention to Eve. “And how’s our patient?”

  “Anxious to hear that my baby is fine.”

  Dr. Jefferson smiled as she pulled up the rolling stool from beside the portable ultrasound machine. “Everything looks fine.” She opened a manila folder and handed Eve an image. “See for yourself.”

  The tears Eve had been trying to keep in check flowed as she stared at the tiny image. Running a fingertip over the glossy photo, she whispered, “Thank God.” She looked up and caught Alex’s attention. She wasn’t surprised to see his eyes fill with tears as she extended the picture to him.

  The look on his face took her breath away, and she knew without reservation that he loved and wanted their baby as much as she did. In that moment, he stole the part of her heart she’d been trying to hold on to.

  “We know the sex of the baby now,” the doctor said. “Would you two like to know?”

  Alex and Eve shared a look before he lifted a shoulder. “I’m going to leave that up to you.”

  “Yes, tell us,” she whispered, stealing one last glance at Alex. His smile told her he couldn’t wait to find out either.

  “You’re going to have a girl.”

  Eve covered her mouth with her hand, trying to hold back more tears as the reality they were going to have a daughter sank in. Alex moved to her side of the bed and reached for Eve’s hand. Bringing her hand to his lips, he smiled as he blinked back tears.

  “There is something I’d like to talk to you about though,” the doctor said, trying to recapture their attention. “Light cramping and spotting isn’t uncommon, though I do want you to notify me if you have any more episodes. What worries me is your blood pressure, Eve. That was much higher than the last time I took it. Have you been under a lot of stress lately?”

  Eve looked up at Alex, and he squeezed her hand. “Um, a little more than usual, yes. I just took ove
r my aunt’s inn, and we’re renovating.”

  “She also had to let her manager go a few days ago,” Alex said, his anger evident in the tight set of his jaw. “I’m sure that didn’t help.”

  “High blood pressure during pregnancy can be a very serious problem that may put both you and your baby at risk,” the doctor said gently. “During our last appointment, you told me how long you and your husband have been trying to get pregnant. I want to do everything I can to help you deliver a healthy, full-term baby, Eve.”

  Eve was afraid to look at Alex, wondering if he misinterpreted her comments to the doctor. She’d confided in the doctor because she’d asked if Eve was pleased about the baby. She hadn’t intended to make it sound as though it was a planned pregnancy.

  “What steps do we need to take to lower her blood pressure, doctor?” Alex asked.

  “I’d like to keep her here for a few more hours so we can continue to monitor it. The fear of miscarriage may have caused a spike, but I can’t stress to you enough the importance of avoiding situations that may elevate your blood pressure.” The doctor stood and wheeled the stool back to the corner. “Renovations are typically stressful. Add to that the pressure of running a new business, and it sounds like a recipe for disaster. Is there anyone who could help you, at least until after the baby’s born? Not that I’m suggesting you’ll have a lot of free time on your hands for the first little while. I remember when my first daughter was born. She turned my orderly world upside down.” The doctor gave them a wry smile.

  Eve wasn’t afraid of the impact her baby girl would have on her life. In fact, she welcomed it. “My mother is working for me—”

  “I’ll take care of it, doctor,” Alex said, squaring his broad shoulders.

  Knowing he was fully prepared to take over the inn made Eve a little uneasy. That glimpse of the dictator Eve remembered made her realize she didn’t want the old Alex back. The new one was everything she’d ever wanted in a partner.