“I bet she did. I like Corrine and I support a friendship between you two.” Jeremy moved Kimberly toward the door and they joined his parents.
“Finally,” Frances said. “I was wondering if either of you would return.” She winked. “But if you don’t watch out, you’ll have another baby and soon.”
Kimberly laughed nervously and took Abigail out of the swing, carrying her into the other room. She kissed Abigail’s cheek and murmured, “You’re going to have a baby brother or sister sometime next year.”
Abigail smiled as if she knew what Kimberly was saying. She yawned and Kimberly rocked her to sleep.
When Kimberly finally walked into the living room, Jeremy was relaxing on the sofa with a glass of wine in his hand. He patted the seat next to him, and once Kimberly joined him, Jeremy leaned over and kissed Kimberly. When they parted, she asked, “Where did your parents go?”
“They wanted to settle in at the chalet, which suits me fine since I’d like to spend some quiet time with you. Is Abigail sleeping?”
“Yes, but what do you have planned, mister?”
“Well, since we’re all alone I think a nap is in order.”
Kimberly’s brow shot up. “Oh, and will we get any sleep?”
“Probably not.” He grinned.
Kimberly strode back to their bedroom with Jeremy tickling her ribs from behind. “Stop that,” she whispered. “If you don’t stop that you’ll wake up Abigail.”
“For tickling you or another reason?”
Kimberly didn’t reply. Instead, she continued down the hall to their bedroom and they closed the door behind them. She didn’t totally relax until she glanced over at the baby monitor to assure herself that the baby was indeed sleeping.
* * *
Jeremy hurried Kimberly into the shower in the morning. “It’s time to wake up, sunshine. You need to take a shower now. We should make something to take to the barbecue.”
“I forgot all about inviting my parents.”
“I did that this morning. Both of our parents had a get together last night.”
“I didn’t know they kept in contact like that.”
“Me either, but why would they mention it? I believe they’re adults.” He winked.
Kimberly took her shower. All she could think about was how her parents would react about her pregnancy. She had had a hard enough time telling them the first time, but things were different back then. She wasn’t married to the wonderful Jeremy Preston. She had to stop herself from worrying about what people would think about her current condition. Having Jeremy in her corner was all she needed.
Kimberly walked into the kitchen and Jeremy greeted her with a smile as he rummaged through the cupboards.
“So, what are we making for the barbecue?”
“I was thinking taco salad.”
Kimberly shook her head. “Too cliché.”
“Baked Beans?”
“Guess again.”
“Bag of potato chips?”
They laughed for a moment and Kimberly pulled out elbow macaroni, tuna fish, peas, and onions.
“I thought you didn’t want cliché.”
“We’re expected to bring the macaroni salad. It’s what all young couples do. I’m certain my parents will insist on some elaborate meal preparations. Possibly hotdogs.” She laughed.
“Should we pick up marshmallows?”
“Absolutely.”
* * *
Jeremy pulled up to the chalet, feeling odd to be visiting this place he had until now called home. Kimberly held tightly to the bowl of macaroni salad while Jeremy carried Abigail, car seat and all.
“Can I help with anything?” a young woman asked.
“You sure can, Betsie,” Jeremy said. “How about if you carry the diaper bag for us.”
“Call it done,” Betsie said, as she took the strap and hoisted it up.
“I can get it,” a blonde little girl said. “Can I please, mama?”
Betsie looked uncertain as she handed the bag to Katie, who tried with all her might to carry the bag without it dragging on the ground.
“I can’t believe you’re the same little girl who was flower girl at our wedding,” Kimberly said.
“I’m much bigger now, and strong,” Katie said, as she tried to flex a bicep.
“She’s going to be a heartbreaker one day,” Jeremy whispered to his wife.
Kimberly led the way as her father stepped out the door to open it for them. “Thanks, Dad,” Kimberly said.
Her tuna salad was whisked out of her hands by Frances. “You should head outside. The lake is beautiful today. My husband is manning the grill.”
Kimberly took Abigail out of the car seat and put sunscreen on the baby, placing a floppy hat on her tiny head so she wouldn’t get sunburned.
“Where should I put the diaper bag?” Katie asked.
“Set in on that chair over there,” Jeremy said.
Hal led the way out the patio door. “I think Martin needs my help with the grill.”
Kimberly smiled as she stepped on the deck with Jeremy, who held Abigail in his arms. She walked over to the grill and said, “I wasn’t expecting ribs and chicken. I figured my dad would insist on hotdogs.”
“He tried to tell me that, but there’s nothing like some good old fashioned ribs on the grill.”
She nodded and her dad took over her stance by the grill as Kimberly stared out at the solid blue sky. The lake was wonderfully calm and barely rippled as the waves came in. Jeremy handed Kimberly the baby and the three of them gazed out across the water.
The door slid open behind them and Betsie joined them at the rail. “It’s certainly a beautiful day.”
“Yes, it’s one of the reasons I didn’t want to move, but I wanted a new place that Kimberly could help build with me,” Jeremy said.
Kimberly smiled. “And I thank you for that. I rather love that we have a backyard that the children can enjoy on a swing set that Jeremy will build for them with his own hands.”
“With people he’ll hire,” Martin said with a laugh.
“Did you mean what you said when you called me, Jeremy?” Betsie asked. “That I could live here with Katie?”
“Of course I meant it. I know you’ve wanted to relocate to Redwater for some time.”
“Since you settled down and married Kimberly, I knew this was the right time.” She glanced at Kimberly. “You mentioned children. Do you plan on having more?”
Kimberly’s cheeks felt hot. “W-Why yes.”
Mom came outside and scolded Kimberly, “Get that baby out of the sun. She’s too young for a sunburn.”
“I think that’s my cue to leave.”
Kimberly carried Abigail inside and she wandered into the kitchen, where Frances was pulling macaroni and cheese from the oven.”
“I didn’t think that was barbecue food.”
“It sure is. Just because Martin insists on cooking ribs and chicken doesn’t mean I can’t make simpler food.”
“Can I help with something?”
“You should set the table. It won’t be long before dinner.”
“I’ll take the baby,” Katie said from behind her.
“Now young lady, you can’t do that unless you’re sitting on the sofa,” Frances said.
Kimberly walked over to the sofa and when Katie sat down, she handed her the baby, instructing her on how to hold Abigail. She didn’t leave to set the table but supervised Katie.
“Are you excited about moving to Redwater?”
“Oh, yes. I miss Uncle Jeremy and I’ll be able to see the baby. I can even watch her sometime.”
Kimberly laughed. “I think you’ll have to be a little older for that.”
“But I just turned eight,” Katie scolded Kimberly.
Betsie walked up. “I hope Katie isn’t bothering you.”
“I wasn’t, Mama.”
“She told me she’d watch the baby sometime for me.” Kimberly winked.
“
I bet she did. We’ll be around to do that sometime for you and Jeremy,” Betsie said. “I’m so glad that we’ll be living so close. Family is important.”
“I’m supposed to set the table. Can you stay with Katie?”
“Go on. I don’t think Katie is ready to give up the baby just yet.”
Kimberly walked into the dining room. It was surreal to be here so soon after moving out. All the furniture was here, but the china cabinet was in the garage of their house since they hadn’t decided where to put it just yet. She set the table, thinking how it didn’t need silverware so fancy. Why, this looked like real silver and most likely was. Betsie must have moved all of her things already. Kimberly still couldn’t believe she had stepped into this world.
Corrine and Clive walked into the dining room. “I hope we’re not late,” Corrine said, as she held a bowl.
“I think Frances is in the kitchen.”
“Oh, okay. I made taco salad,” Corrine began. “I’ve never made it before, but Clive helped me.”
“Oh, I didn’t know you knew how to make taco salad, Clive. Weren’t you a successful man in Hollywood at one time?” Kimberly asked.
Clive laughed. “Yes, but believe me I had a meager beginning. I once waited tables while I was in college. I was fortunate to be given a break.”
“Are we all set in here?” Frances asked. “Oh, more food. How nice.” Corrine handed her the bowl and Frances disappeared with it into the kitchen.
“The food is ready,” Jeremy said, as he walked into the room.” He pushed a button and a partition opened that revealed a wall of windows with a view of the lake.
Betsie came into the room and announced, “Abigail fell asleep and I put her into the crib.”
“But we didn’t leave a crib behind.”
“No, we bought one for when you visit,” Martin said, as he walked into the room, carrying a large plate piled high with ribs. “Take a seat, ladies.”
“We should help Frances in the kitchen,” Kimberly said.
“Believe me she won’t stand for that. She has a special code when she throws a party, she’s the one who manages the kitchen.”
“We can help out bringing in the chicken,” Jeremy told Clive.
* * *
Clive and Jeremy left the room and filled a plate with the chicken, some of which had barbecue sauce.
“So, you knew Kimberly was pregnant before me?” Jeremy asked with a frown.
“I suspected it from the way she was sick at the meeting, but I wasn’t certain. Corrine didn’t exactly share anything further with me.”
“I’m glad to hear that. I’d hate for you to keep something from me, especially when it has to do with my wife.”
“Not to worry, Jeremy. I value your friendship.”
* * *
Kimberly was shocked at all the food on the table. Besides the meat, there was salad, corn on the cob, baked beans, tuna salad, potato salad, and taco salad.
Kimberly’s mom and dad sat on one end of the table with Frances and Martin on the other side. That left Jeremy to sit next to Kimberly, with Betsie and Katie directly across the table from them. Clive squeezed in next to Betsie, who looked shyly at him while Corrine slid in next to Kimberly. It was a very full table.
The dishes were passed and lemonade poured into glasses. Kimberly dug into her plate and had to slow herself down. “These ribs are the best I’ve ever had.” She then looked over at Jeremy. “Besides Jeremy’s.” She laughed.
“The taco salad is good, too,” Jeremy said. “I’ve never had it with eggs in it before.”
“You mean you don’t put that in taco salad?” Corrine frowned. “Clive told me to put them in.”
Clive laughed. “Can’t you take a joke?”
“Can’t you find a new job?”
“Oh, Clive works for you, Corrine?” Frances asked. “I thought you two were partners or a couple.”
“A couple of what?” Kimberly asked with a smile. “Actually, I believe they’re partners, but I’ve always wondered if they secretly are a twosome.”
Corrine shot her a look and said, “Don’t you have an announcement to make, Kimberly?”
“No, I don’t think so.”
“We were planning to do that after dinner,” Jeremy said.
“Is Kimberly going to model again?” her mom asked.
“No, it’s bigger than that,” Kimberly murmured.
“But that’s pretty big, if you ask me.”
“You’re wrong about that,” Kimberly said. “I’m pregnant.”
Frances dropped her fork to the table and Hal grinned. “Good going, Jeremy. I had no idea you’d be adding to your family this soon.”
“I don’t know what to say, Jeremy, other than congratulations to you both,” Frances said.
“Isn’t it too soon to be pregnant?” her mom asked.
“I think you know where babies come from, Bethany,” Hal joked. “If you don’t, I could show you.”
“We have a child at the table, don’t forget,” Kimberly reminded them.
“I’m eight and I already know where babies come from. The mommy and daddy kiss and later in the year a baby is born.”
The adults all laughed and Kimberly admitted, “This took us both by surprise. I have no idea what I’ll do with two babies in diapers.”
“You’ll find a way,” Bethany said. “At least you had a trial run to figure out things.”
“I learn something new every day.”
Corrine smiled. “I have faith in you, Kimberly. And I hope that you’ll want to continue your role as spokesmodel for the Pretty and Pregnant line.”
“We could always put cameras in your home to detail your pregnancy from start to finish,” Clive suggested.
“No, we won’t be doing that,” Jeremy said. “It’s up to Kimberly to decide if she wants to continue in that role.”
“I would like to if I can figure out someone I trust who can watch the baby, but there won’t be any cameras brought into our home.”
“I can help out since I work from home,” Betsie said.
“I’ll help out, too,” mom said. “We’ll be staying in Redwater for a while.”
“Is that why you’re having your cabin renovated?”
“Yes, it will be our little love shack.” Dad winked.
“Okay, fine, no cameras,” Clive said. “It was a good idea, though.”
“It was,” Jeremy admitted, “if it was someone else.”
* * *
Kimberly carried Abigail outside as the sky darkened. Their parents were on the beach roasting marshmallows while Jeremy lingered with his wife. He stood behind Kimberly and kissed her neck. The sky was lit up with orange and yellow as it became much darker.
“I love you, Kimberly,” Jeremy said, with his hands on her abdomen. “But I must admit that I’m happy we’ll be having a baby of our own now. I didn’t want you to know how much I wanted that. I promise Abigail will never be treated any lesser. She’s our daughter and I love her very much.”
Kimberly wiped the tears that rolled down her cheeks. Jeremy moved to her side, picking up Abigail. He leaned in to kiss Kimberly and said, “If you promise me to always be honest with me, I’ll vow not to turn you over my knee.” He laughed.
“I promise I’ll never keep anything from you again, but I’m happy that you’re supporting me now about continuing to model.”
“I want what’s best for you and what will make you happy.”
Kimberly put her head on Jeremy’s shoulder as darkness came. The full moon was out and lit up the lake enough to see the waves coming in and slapping to shore. She breathed in deeply, not of the crackling fire or marshmallows, but Jeremy’s cologne that was making the butterflies in her stomach begin to flutter. She was happier than she thought she’d ever be and with Jeremy at her side. She knew that life would be good for them and whatever challenges they’d face, Kimberly would be sure to work alongside her husband to solve them. Love wasn’t something either of
them just said, but how they showed one another every day.
About the Author
Madison's writing journey began at the age of 44 and it wasn't until four years later that she wrote the book that she thought had the most potential, one that readers would really enjoy. A series that takes place in the real town of Tawas, Michigan, one of Madison's favorite vacation spot as a child.
Although sleep-deprived from working third shift, she knew if she used what she had learned while caring for senior citizens to good use, it would result in something quite unique. The Agnes Barton Senior Sleuths mystery series has forever changed Madison's life, and propelled her onto the USA Today Bestsellers list.
She now works full time as a writer from home, writing not only cozy mysteries, but sweet historical romances under the name, Clara Kincaid.
Visit her on the web at: http://www.madisonJohns.com. Don’t forget to sign up for Madison’s mystery newsletter at http://eepurl.com/4kFsH to receive new release alerts. All new releases are offered at a discounted rate for the first few days.
@madisonjohns11
MadisonJohnsAuthor
madisonjohns.com
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Other Books by this Author
An Agnes Barton Senior Sleuths Mystery Series
An Agnes Barton Senior Sleuths Mystery Series
Armed and Outrageous
Grannies, Guns & Ghosts
Senior Snoops
Trouble in Tawas
Treasure in Tawas
Bigfoot in Tawas
High Seas Honeymoon
Outrageous Vegas Vacation
Birds of a Feather
An Agnes Barton Paranormal Mystery Series
Haunted Hijinks
Ghostly Hijinks
Spooky Hijinks
Hair-Raising Hijinks
An Agnes Barton Holiday Mystery
The Great Turkey Caper
The Great Christmas Caper
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