Mirror Image Bride (Love Inspired)

by Barbara McMahon

  “I bought a couple when we were shopping the other day. We were saving them for a rainy day,” Maddie explained.

  Ty sat at one end of his sofa with Darcy between him and Maddie. The bowl of popcorn sat in Darcy’s lap so all could reach it. The cartoon feature had played for only a few minutes when the rumble of thunder could be heard above the sound.

  Maddie looked out the window.

  “Made it in plenty of time,” Ty said, glancing at her. She didn’t look reassured.

  She looked at the TV and then out the window. A louder clap of thunder sounded and she jumped. Her hands were clenched tightly.

  “Maddie, are you okay?” he asked softly.

  She glanced at him, her entire body tense. Giving a tight smile, she shrugged. “I don’t like thunderstorms.”

  “Nothing to worry about. If you can hear the thunder it means the lightning missed you,” he said easily.

  She nodded, staring out the window again.

  When another loud clap sounded, she jumped again.

  “Are you scared?” Darcy asked, looking at Maddie.

  “Just a little. Always have been.” She looked at Ty apologetically. “Sorry.”

  “Nothing to apologize for. We all have different things that make us uncomfortable,” he said.

  “Even you?” she asked.

  He nodded. “Tell you what, Darcy—you trade places with me and I’ll sit in the middle. That way Maddie will have someone solid to hang on to if she needs to.”

  “Okay.”

  They made the switch, and no sooner had Ty sat in the middle than a splitting crack of thunder shook the house. Maddie scooted right up against him and he naturally put his arm around her shoulders, pulling her closer. “You’re okay,” he said, gently as he would to a fractious animal. He rubbed her arm slowly, gradually feeling her relax.

  He turned up the sound a bit with the remote. It wouldn’t mask the loud claps of thunder, but would minimize the low rumblings.

  * * *

  Maddie couldn’t help jumping every time the thunder sounded, yet there was something very comforting about sitting so close to Ty and having his arm around her. She knew the fear of thunder was silly. Yet it was as if it were hardwired into her. Thunder sounded and fear rose.

  As the storm moved away she relaxed and began to enjoy the movie. The characters were funny and several times she smiled at Darcy’s laughter. The little girl was enjoying it. Lucky her, no fear of thunderstorms.

  When the movie ended, the storm had moved on, only the steady rain continued.

  “Nice to have some rain and it’s already cooler,” Ty said, removing his arm from her shoulders.

  “Sorry to be such a wimp,” she said with a hint of embarrassment. “I’ve always thought it’s because I was in the car when we crashed and my mom was killed. It was storming just like this, only it was at night. I couldn’t get out of the seat belt, the rain and thunder scared me and my mom didn’t answer.”

  “Man, that’s hard to live through.”

  “I know, but the thing is, it turns out Violet’s scared of them, too—so it might not be from the accident but something that’s wired into me.”

  “A twin thing?” he asked.

  “Maybe. Like we both like the color yellow.”

  “I’ve noticed you wear it a lot.”

  “It’s my favorite color.”

  Darcy grabbed a big handful of popcorn. “That was fun, can we watch another one?” she chimed in.

  “Since not much work will be done in the rain, I don’t see why not,” Ty said.

  The rest of the afternoon was one of the best Maddie had enjoyed in years. Ty seemed relaxed and at ease around his daughter as never before. And Darcy freely called him Daddy more than once.

  Maddie was glad for the change. Hopefully the child would live with him until she was grown. She just wished she could be a part of their lives. At least if she found a job in Grasslands, she’d always be close enough to see them at church or around the ranch, and be able to watch Darcy grow up.

  When the second movie ended, it was time for dinner. The rain continued to pour down. Ty dashed out to bring his truck as close to the door as he could. Darcy and Maddie jumped in and they drove the short distance to the main house. Landon and Violet greeted them. Lupita served a delicious roast with all the trimmings and the apple pie she and Darcy had made.

  When the blessing had been said and they were eating, Ty asked about Belle.

  “She’s being transported this weekend. The convalescent home is really nice, clean and efficient. And the best part is we get to visit her without the long drive,” Violet said excitedly.

  “But no change in her condition, Maddie tells me.”

  “Not so I can tell, but the doctors say it’s more like she’s sleeping. She had REM sleep, and moves sometimes. It’s a good sign. Now we wait,” Violet said quietly. Landon reached over and gave her hand a quick squeeze.

  “The doctors are cautiously optimistic. Which is their way of hedging their prognosis, I think. But I’m clinging to the fact God is the great physician and He can heal anyone. I am holding to faith that the Lord will let her wake up and meet me.” Maddie dabbed the corner of her mouth with a napkin. “I can’t wait to talk to her, tell her about my life, learn why our family split up—if I don’t find out that part from my dad first.”

  “The uncertainty must drive you nuts. It’s driving me crazy,” Ty said with a glance to Darcy.

  “On Sunday, can I go to Sunday School?” Darcy asked, oblivious to the conversation. “Sadie said it was really fun and there are lots of kids that I’ll meet and then go to Vacation Bible School with.”

  Ty smiled at his daughter. “Sounds like a plan.”

  “There’re adult classes, too,” Maddie added.

  Ty glanced her way. “You go?”

  “I haven’t here, but I taught seven-year-olds at my church in Fort Worth. I’d like to see what they have here for adults. Maybe if I find a job and can stay, I’ll offer to teach again when the need arises.”

  “Whoa, what do you mean if you stay?” he asked, staring at her. Violet grinned. Even Landon looked startled.

  Maddie looked at each of them. “I’ve decided with my dad gone so much, and my brothers consumed with their own lives, there’s not that much for me in Fort Worth. I’d rather live closer to Violet and Jack. Get to know them better. Be here when Belle awakens. So I’ve decided to look for work in Grasslands. Or maybe Floydada. It would still be close enough to come to dinner or to spend the day,” she said.

  Ty put down his fork and stared at her. “I don’t know what to say—”

  “Guess I caught you off guard,” she said with a smile. “Truth is, I really like being here. I’m learning so much about ranching and cattle and how to slow down and savor the day. I like the messages Pastor Jeb gives on Sundays. And once Belle awakens, I’ll want to spend a lot of time with her. Nothing’s tying me to Fort Worth but the lease on my apartment and it’ll be up in a few months.”

  “I think it’s a fabulous idea,” Violet said.

  “Surprising, I know,” Landon said. “But I think you’ll like it here, Maddie. I’m looking forward to relocating to Grasslands.”

  Ty looked at his food.

  “I think I’ll love living here, with family and friends I hope to make. I feel I’ve already started with Sadie. I like knowing the Simmonses who own the coffee shop and greet me by name. I know my way around the Feed and Grain.”

  Ty looked up at her with that comment and gave his slow smile. “That makes you practically a native.”

  She laughed. “Maybe not, but it’s a start.”

  He didn’t say anything more about it, but Maddie caught him glancing at her from time to time as dinner progressed. She wished she could convince him that she knew what she was doing and the change would be welcomed. The Lord knew what He was doing when her job at the magazine ended. Now she trusted Him to lead her to the perfect job locally to enable her t
o stay in close touch with her twin.

  * * *

  “I loved today,” Darcy said as she climbed into her bed some time later. “I got to make a pie, to go riding, go swimming and watch movies. I never got to do that at home. And then I ate with all the grownups at Violet’s house.”

  “This is a different way of life from living in Houston. I’m having to adjust, too. Fort Worth’s quite different from Grasslands,” Maddie acknowledged. “I think you’ll love it as time goes by. Once you’ve made a lot friends, you can ride together, do things with friends, and maybe your dad’ll get you a dog like you asked.”

  “That would be awesome!” Darcy exclaimed. “I’d take really good care of it.”

  “Take care of what?” Ty asked, standing in the doorway.

  Darcy gazed at her dad. “If I get a dog, I’d take the bestest care of him,” she said earnestly.

  “I bet you would. We’ll have to see, though.”

  Maddie knew he was thinking—Darcy’s living with him wasn’t a sure thing. No promises made until he knew.

  * * *

  When Maddie returned to the main house later, her sister and Landon were together watching a special on TV. She joined them. Smiling at them both, she was reminded yet again of how delighted she was that he and Violet had fallen in love. The only blot on their rosy relationship was Belle’s continued coma. She knew Violet wouldn’t get married until her mother could be there, so all plans were on hold.

  “Your announcement at dinner was a surprise. Are you really going to stay in Grasslands?” Landon asked as she sat on the comfortable recliner next to the sofa.

  “I am. If I can find a place to live and a job to support myself.”

  “You are welcome to stay here,” Violet said.

  “Thanks. I may have to take you up on it until my lease ends on the apartment in Fort Worth. I like it here.” She paused. “We had a full day today. Fun, too, except for the storm.”

  “I know what you mean,” Violet said. “Scared me, too.”

  Landon looked from one to the other. “Thunder can’t hurt you.”

  “I know,” they said in unison, then grinned at each other.

  “Doesn’t change the fact it does, though,” Maddie said. “Are we going to the nursing home tomorrow?”

  “I talked again to the ambulance service before dinner. Mom’s scheduled to arrive around eleven. I thought we could go then. If she’s late, we can just hang around until they show up.”

  “Is Jack coming?” Maddie asked.

  “I don’t know. I told him, but what he’ll do is up to him.”

  “I know he blames himself for her accident, but from what you said, he really wasn’t at fault, it was truly an accident. He needs to get over that and be there for your mom when she recovers,” Landon said.

  “Easier said than done. It’s more than just the accident. It’s everything we’ve learned since then. He’s having a hard time with the split family, and then the accusations of Patty Earl when we went to the old neighborhood. I wish we could find out more,” Violet said.

  “Don’t we all?” Maddie added under her breath.

  “Not much call for the magazine business here,” Landon said.

  “Maybe she should try the local newspaper. That’s still in publishing, and I bet they’d love to have someone with your particular background,” Violet suggested.

  “I’ll check into it next week.” Maddie rose. “I’m going to bed. I already told Ty he’s on his own with Darcy tomorrow morning since we’re going to be at Ranchlands. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if Belle wakes up when she arrives? Just knowing she’s home might be what she needs.”

  * * *

  The next day was clear and cooler after the storm. Maddie prepared breakfast for Darcy and Ty and then joined Violet and Landon for the drive to Ranchlands. Jack had not shown up, and they didn’t know if he was coming or not.

  Shortly after eleven the ambulance from Amarillo arrived. In short order Belle was transported to the sunny room assigned to her. Once the attendants left and the medical staff had her comfortably situated, Violet leaned over to kiss her mother.

  “Hi, Mom. You’re back home—well, almost. You’re in Grasslands. So much closer that we’ll be able to come visit every day.” She squeezed her hand. “Lots to tell you since the last time I saw you.”

  They sat around the bed, talking to Belle, catching her up with all the news—except the comments from Patty Earl.

  “You need to come back to us, Mom. We really miss you.”

  “Me, too,” Maddie said, gently caressing Belle’s arm. “There’s so much for us to talk about. I can’t wait.”

  When a nurse came in to check on Belle, the three of them left. Lunch and then back to the ranch was the plan.

  At the coffee shop, they had scarcely begun eating when Violet waved at a man who had just walked in.

  “Paul Linder, I want you to meet my sister, Maddie,” she said when he stopped by the table. “And my fiancé, Landon Derringer. Paul’s the owner and editor in chief at our local paper.”

  “Pleasure. No denying you’re Violet’s sister. Once things settle down, maybe we can do a special-interest feature, long-lost family found again,” Paul said.

  “We’ll wait until Mom’s better, then we’ll get her side,” Violet said. “The thing is, Paul, do you know of any work available around town? Maddie’s been living in Fort Worth but wants to relocate here. She used to work at a magazine.”

  “Maybe, depending on your experience. Come see me Monday morning.” He fished out a business card and handed it to Maddie. “About ten?”

  “Thank you, I’d like that.” It would work perfectly, as she could go while Darcy was in Vacation Bible School.

  * * *

  Maddie dressed with care for her date with Ty. It might only be a thank-you for watching his daughter, but she was going to be at her best. She wore her hair down, brushing against her shoulders. The conditioner she’d used that afternoon gave it gleaming highlights. Subtle makeup to enhance her chocolate-brown eyes and the healthy tan she’d acquired since living on the ranch. The yellow silk blouse she wore was a favorite. The dark brown slacks and high-heeled sandals hadn’t been worn in some time. She now knew better what to wear around a ranch. But this was not hanging around the ranch, but dinner and a movie in town.

  Even though she loved Darcy, she was looking forward to spending time alone with Ty. Truth was, her feeling of being a buffer between father and daughter was fading. Each day Darcy drew closer to Ty, and he seemed much more comfortable as her dad now.

  A few more weeks together and they’d be set forever. She prayed that the custody matter would go in Ty’s favor. He needed Darcy as much as she needed him.

  Maddie went downstairs just before six. Ty was coming then and she didn’t want to keep him waiting. She heard Violet and Landon talking in the living room, but didn’t go in. She wanted to hug her anticipation to herself.

  When she heard his truck, she let herself out of the house and walked out to meet him as he started up the walk.

  “Hi,” she said, feeling flustered. She spent a lot of time with him, so why was she suddenly struck with nerves?

  “Hi, yourself. You look nice.”

  “Thanks.” She smiled at the compliment. He looked good, too. Dressed up in new jeans, a white shirt and bolo tie.

  When they reached his truck, he opened the passenger door for her. She’d ridden in this truck before and immediately noticed the difference. It was spotless. He must have spent a large part of the afternoon cleaning it.

  When they were heading to town, she asked, “How did Darcy deal with the fact we were going out without her?”

  “She asked if it was a date and said her mom dated a lot. Then she told me about the woman who usually babysat her. She thought it fabulous Sadie had come to watch her. They were already talking about Vacation Bible School when I left. Darcy’s looking forward to that.”

  “You and her mother were d
ivorced a long time. I’m sort of surprised neither of you married again,” Maddie said. Obviously, Brittany had dated...why hadn’t Ty?

  “That marriage cured me of romance,” he said. “Don’t know why she didn’t remarry except maybe she realized she liked the excitement of dating compared to the routine of marriage. Brittany loved living with excitement.”

  “It’d get tiring after a while, I’d think,” Maddie said.

  He flicked her a glance. “Yeah.”

  He drove into the parking lot of Sally’s Barbecue a few minutes later. “This okay?”

  “Perfect.” The barbecue place was down Main Street from the coffee shop. Maddie hadn’t been before, but she’d heard Jack raving about it once.

  When they were seated, Maddie told Ty about Paul’s offer to see her on Monday to discuss different job openings he knew about in Grasslands.

  “You’re serious about staying, then?” he asked.

  “As long as I can get something that will enable me to afford an apartment and all.”

  “Why not stay with Violet and Jack as you have been doing?”

  “I came for a visit, not to move in. It’s going to be great living nearby. But they deserve their own home and I deserve mine.”

  “What if you get a job offer right away?” he asked.

  She knew what he was really asking. “I’ll tell them I’m available as soon as school starts. That was our deal.”

  He nodded thoughtfully.

  Their food was served and for a few minutes they devoted their attention to enjoying the delicious barbecue ribs, baked beans and cole slaw.

  * * *

  Ty watched her eat, fascinated she didn’t spill a drop of the barbecue sauce on that yellow blouse. She looked amazing tonight. He had quickly grown used to her in jeans with her hair pulled back like Violet wore hers. Tonight it brushed her shoulders and looked as soft as the silky blouse she wore.

  When he’d first seen her, his heart dropped. She was too sophisticated for a cowboy like him. Yet she seemed to be enjoying herself. He knew he was.

  “So tell me about the truck,” she said, looking up with a bright smile.

  “That it’s so clean?”

  “Amazing.”