by JoAnn Durgin
His laughter filled her heart. “How are your fingers?” he asked. “Do you still have the numbness?”
“Sometimes.” She stole a quick glance at Kevin and saw him talking with some of the newer TeamWork ladies across the room. “The doctor tells me I might always have it, but it’s a small price to pay.” Her eyes met Marc’s again.
“God put me where I needed to be out in Montana. Those two weeks were an awakening of sorts for all of us, you know.”
She tilted her head. “How so?”
“It opened the door to Natalie’s forgiveness and love for me. It also opened Kevin’s eyes to what he almost lost.” His eyes captured hers. “That man loves you. Sorry to be so blunt, but do you love him?”
Rebekah’s gaze strayed across the room. As if sensing her eyes on him, Kevin gave her a gentle smile.
“Yes.”
“Then tell him. He needs to hear the words, but he needs to hear them from you.”
She inhaled a deep breath. “I’m not sure he wants to hear it from me, at least not right now. Things have been a little tense. They’re getting better now.”
“Trust me,” Marc said. “He wants to hear it from you.”
“I’ll tell him but there’s too much emotion right now.”
“Promise me something, Beck.”
Looking back at up at him, she nodded. “Sure. Anything for you, Marc.”
“Don’t wait too long.”
~~**~~
“Let me help you,” Kevin said as Rebekah said good night to the last of their friends.
“You don’t need to stay, Kevin.”
“I know I don’t need to, but I want to, if you’ll allow me.”
She nodded, giving him a small smile. “Thanks.”
Josh swung around the corner from the family room. “Beck, let’s go upstairs and talk with Mom. Make sure she’s okay. She’ll be back down in a bit, Kevin.”
“Go with Josh,” Kevin said.
“I’m not sure how long it’ll be.”
His smile was gentle. “I’ll wait.”
She nodded, her eyes welling again as she followed her brother upstairs to their mother’s bedroom. They sat on either side of the bed with her, holding her hands and talking. Josh sat on Dad’s side. How difficult must it be for Mom? How many times must she reach for him in the night? Maybe it was still too new, too fresh, and she hadn’t absorbed it all into her daily reality.
“Your dad loved the two of you so much,” Lorena told them, looking from Josh over to her and back. “You were his greatest pride and joy, and I hope you know how proud he was of the man and woman you’ve become.” She squeezed their hands. They talked together for the next half-hour, laughing and sharing special memories. It was surprising how easy it was to talk about her father, how much lighter it made her spirits.
Rebekah rose from the bed. “Kevin’s downstairs, Mom. Are you going to be okay? Do you want me to stay in here with you tonight? We could snuggle.” She leaned down to kiss her mother’s cheek.
Lorena brushed a stray strand of silver hair away from her forehead and smiled. “No, sweetie, I’ll be fine. Unless you need to snuggle.”
“I might. I’m going to go talk with him, and then I’ll be back upstairs to check on you.”
Her mother smiled and it eased the lines on her forehead, making her look years younger. She’d always been a beautiful woman, but she’d aged ten years alone in the last few days. When all their friends and family departed, it was Rebekah’s prayer she’d settle into a familiar and comfortable routine. She’d attend church events as always and continue her charitable work in the community. Still, after being by her father’s side for over thirty years, it would be a hard road to walk. As much as anything else, their parents modeled a beautiful example of a strong marriage with Christ firmly at the center. That legacy was a gift.
“When do you have to get back to work?” Rebekah whispered to Josh on the way down the stairs.
“I have a major deal closing tomorrow but then I’m taking off until next Monday.” He frowned.
“What’s wrong?”
He stopped at the bottom of the stairs. “I’m trying to convince Winnie to stay a few extra days. I want to show her and Chloe the house, for one thing. I think it would be a very good thing at this point in our relationship.”
“And exactly where are you in this relationship?”
Josh didn’t answer for a long moment. “Exactly where we need to be right now.”
She laughed. “With an answer like that, I think you’re destined for a career in politics.”
“Hmm, you never know. You’re not the first person to suggest it.” Giving her a grin, he pulled her in a quick embrace. “I love you, sis. We’ll get through this together. I’ve got your back.”
“Same here. Winnie and Chloe can stay with me. It might be too overwhelming for Mom right now. On the other hand, it might be the thing she needs to help her get through this transitional time. It’s got to be hard for her.”
“I need to talk with Winnie more about it before we make plans. She’s at a hotel right now but that would be great if she could stay with one of you. She says she has to get back for some catering event or something, but I wasn’t aware she had anything on the calendar for the next few days.”
“Well, then, it sounds like you need to ask Lexa about it. She’d know.”
“Right. If needed, I’ll ask her as a last resort. The TeamWork crew is having breakfast at Kingston’s tomorrow morning before they all caravan back to Houston.”
She smiled. “That’s great. I still haven’t met Chloe, you realize.”
“You will tomorrow, and the little betrothed couple, too.”
Rebekah laughed outright at that one. Good to see his humor was intact. “I can hardly wait. What time?”
“We’re meeting them at Kingston’s at eight. I’m going back home tonight. I’ll come pick you and Mom up at seven fifteen. That way we can swing by the hotel first so you can have privacy with Winnie and Chloe when you meet her for the first time. Pray for me as I talk with Winnie tonight, Beck. I told her I’d fly them back to Houston in a few days. Chloe overheard me telling her. She’s never been on a plane before and that’s given me a big advantage.” His lips curled a bit. “My little girl is very persuasive.”
How she loved hearing her brother say those words. “I know this is a tough concept for you to accept, Josh, but you can’t just barge into Winnie’s life and expect her to fall at your feet. You might need to take this a little slower than you’d like. She’s a terrific woman, but she’s got a lot at risk, a lot to consider. Being a single mother is one of the hardest things in the world, and she’s not going to uproot her life or Chloe’s without good or just cause.” She gave him a knowing look. “Being a lawyer, you should know something about that.”
“But remember, I’m a lawyer who specializes in mergers and acquisitions.”
“Right.”
Josh’s smile was blinding. “I’m working on the biggest deal of my life, Beck. A merger with Winnie Doyle, and the acquisition of Chloe Doyle.”
She laughed. “Well, now, that’s a bit impersonal yet quite profound, isn’t it?”
“I thought so.” He winked and they shared a grin.
As if on cue, they heard the sound of running water followed by dishes being loaded in the dishwasher. Her eyes moved to the kitchen door.
“I can’t believe he’s doing dishes,” Josh said. “Go grab him now and never let him go. That man’s a keeper. Either that or he’s doing one whale of a job trying to impress you. Speaking of which, have you told Kevin yet that you cut Adam loose?”
She shook her head, bracing herself for the coming lecture. Now he calls him Adam. “Not yet, but I will.”
Josh blew out a breath and ran a hand through his hair. “What in the world are you waiting for? Don’t you realize all that’s standing between you and lasting bliss with Kevin are three little words?”
Rebekah grumbled.
“What was that? I didn’t hear you.” He laughed and leaned down to regain her eye contact.
“First Marc and now you. At least Sam cut me some slack today. Trust me, I will tell Kevin, but you’ve got to give me a little space. It’s been too emotional, especially today. I don’t want him to think my declaration of everlasting love has anything to do with losing Dad.”
“Tell him soon.”
“Good night, Josh.”
“Night, Beck. Love you.”
“Love you, too.” Starting into the kitchen, she paused. He’d let her have the last word. With a smile, she pushed open the door to the kitchen. Kevin’s jacket was draped over a chair and his white dress shirt was rolled to his elbows. As she watched, he plunged a pan into the water and started to scrub it. He must really love me. What man would do such a thing otherwise? Something about a man with his hands immersed in dishwater made him even more masculine.
“This goes above and beyond the call of duty, you know.”
“It’s only dishes,” he said. “It’s not a duty. It’s an honor and a privilege. Your dad was special to me, too, Rebekah. I want to help.”
Walking over to the sink, standing beside him—his hands still in the dishwater—she put both hands on either side of his face. Pulling him close, the color of his eyes deepened when he understood what was on her mind. Then he gave her another one of those glorious, loopy grins. Oh, how she loved them. How she’d missed them.
“Unfair advantage,” he said, his voice low as he met her lips in a tender kiss.
They talked as they tackled the remaining dishes, pots and pans together. He encouraged her to talk about her dad, sharing more of her favorite memories. Listening as they worked, he asked questions every now and then. It was comfortable, it was easy, it was right.
“You remind me of my dad, you know,” she said. They stood in the front doorway a short time later. “In all the best possible ways.”
The overhead porch light illuminated his face, highlighting his pleasure from her words. “That’s quite the compliment. I thought no man could ever measure up to a little girl’s daddy. Your dad’s shoes are mighty big to fill.”
“He’s a tough act to follow, but you definitely fit the bill.”
“You keep saying things like that,” Kevin said, taking both her hands in his, stepping closer, “I might just kiss you whether or not it’s appropriate.” He brushed his lips over her cheek. “Good night, sweet Rebekah. I’ll be praying for you, Josh and your mom. Are you going to Kingston’s in the morning?”
“Wouldn’t miss it. You?”
He smiled. “I’ll be there.”
“Thanks for being here today, Kevin. It meant so much to us. To me.”
He nodded and kissed her forehead. The man sure was making his way around her face. Rebekah leaned against the doorframe as he departed with a small wave. Watching him leave, she knew this day would always be bittersweet. Gazing at the sky, the warm night air enveloped her as she eyed the stars, picking out a few constellations. Kevin was much better at naming them. In San Antonio, he’d pointed out some of them to her, telling her some of the legends and myths. She closed her eyes, wishing he sat beside her now, strumming his guitar, singing one of his wonderful songs.
“Rebekah?”
Startled, she opened her eyes. “Hi, Mrs. Michelson.”
The elderly woman stood on the front walkway, a dish in her hands. “I brought you a casserole. I heard about your dad and I’m real sorry. I’m sure he was a fine man.”
Rebekah moved forward, taking it from her. “He was. Thank you.”
She nodded at the dish. “That’s my special chicken and rice dish. I put broccoli and water chestnuts in it. People seem to like it.”
“That’s very kind. I’m sure it’s delicious.”
“I’ve been picking up your papers and mail since you’ve been gone from the house.”
She hadn’t even thought about that. “I appreciate your watching out for me.”
The lines around her eyes crinkled and Mrs. Michelson nodded. “That’s what neighbors should do for each other.”
Rebekah found her smile. “Let me treat you to lunch sometime next week.”
“Oh, that’s not necessary,” she said, waving her hand. Still, there was no mistaking the look of pleased satisfaction creasing the weathered lines on her face.
“Yes, it is. In the meantime, is there anything I can do for you, Mrs. Michelson?”
“Take care of your mama, child. She’s gonna need you. And then take care of that sweet young man I saw kiss you good night. He’s the right one for you.” With a small smile, she turned to leave.
“Yes, he sure is.”
Chapter 37
The Next Day
Looking down at her daughter, Winnie squeezed Chloe’s hand as they walked toward Josh’s house in the quiet Baton Rouge suburb. She had to be strong for both of them, even though inside she was quaking and her knees felt like Jell-O. As they approached the front of the house, she took a deep breath, blowing it out slowly. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea, letting Josh talk me into staying in Baton Rouge for a couple of days.
At least Josh’s mom and Beck accepted them both with open arms and without question. Likewise the TeamWork volunteers. Even though no public proclamation of Josh’s fatherhood had been made known, they had to know. Earlier in the day, after the TeamWork breakfast at Kingston’s, Josh showed them his impressive office. Walking between them, holding their hands, he introduced them to everyone. Her head still reeled with all the names. It was clear how much they valued him and his work at the firm. She also felt the envious stares from some of the women boring holes in her back.
He had an afternoon deal to close, so Beck and Lorena took her and Chloe to lunch at a fun tearoom where little girls could play dress-up. They had a ball and took lots of pictures. Chloe charmed them both, but everyone was careful. She didn’t want Chloe calling them Aunt or Nana until things were more solidified in her relationship with Josh.
The door swung open and Josh stood in the doorway. He’d changed from his suit into his jeans and the same green polo he’d worn on his first visit in Houston, the one that matched those incredible eyes. He’d been back several times now, each visit better than the one before.
He was barefoot which somehow made him even more appealing, a virtual impossibility. His smile made her weak, as it always did. “Please, come in, ladies. Welcome to Chez Grant.”
Chloe looked up at her. “What’s that mean, Mommy?”
“He’s talking about his house, sweetie. Mr. Josh wants us to feel comfortable.”
“’Kay.” Chloe dropped her hand and walked into the living room, her eyes lighting as she saw the fireplace. “Do you use that?” she asked, pointing to it.
“Not as much as I’d like,” Josh told her, closing the front door. “Like Houston, we stay pretty warm here in Louisiana most of the year. I don’t really need a fireplace, but I like it. It’s cozy.” He bent down to her level and gave her a big grin. The look on his face when Chloe giggled warmed Winnie all over.
“Let me give you ladies the grand tour,” he said. “Feel free to kick off your shoes and stay awhile.” His eyes met hers before stooping down to help Chloe with the straps on her shoes as Winnie pulled off her high-heeled sandals, the same ones she’d worn on their date. It seemed so long ago although it wasn’t. So much had happened in their lives and in their hearts.
Josh led them around the house. She smiled in appreciation of the moldings on the ceiling and the lovely wallpaper in the living room. The rooms downstairs were all painted a soft neutral color, and the color scheme flowing from the living room into the dining room featured complementary shades of maroon, gray and blue. Definitely a bachelor’s house, tastefully furnished and almost too clean and tidy. He must have a housekeeper.
The hardwood floors were highly polished with scattered floor rugs to match the same color scheme. Winnie knew they weren’t just any rugs, b
ut high-end Persian carpets. His selection of paintings and artwork showed a good eye for investment. Nothing was cluttered and everything had its place.
“What do you think?” Josh watched her closely as they stood in the dining room with its cherry oval table—big enough to seat eight people—and matching pieces. The modest chandelier was elegant and beautiful. Chloe walked over to the hand-painted mural of a pastoral scene on one wall and frowned when Winnie told her not to touch.
“You can touch it if you want, Chloe,” Josh told her, winking at Winnie.
“You can’t help yourself,” she said, laughing under her breath. “Setting bad precedents, I mean.” Better not let him think she meant anything else. “In answer to your question, I’m thinking you must have a housekeeper. No wonder you love it here. Lead on. I can’t wait to see this state-of-the-art kitchen you’ve told me about.”
“Your wish is my command, my lady. Please follow me.” Leading the way through a small study with a wall of books and an executive desk with a computer, Josh asked her to close her eyes. Taking her by the hand, he surprised her by scooping her in his arms and carrying her over the threshold and into the kitchen at the back of the house.
“Put me down, please,” she said, giggling as she opened her eyes. She wasn’t about to ask why he’d done it and would never admit she secretly loved it. As he lowered her, she looked around, awed. “Wow.” At first glance, it was nothing short of the kitchen of her fantasies. Her eyes widened as she took it all in—all the latest appliances a caterer could ever want: double ovens, butcher-block counters, tons of shelf and cabinet space, an expansive pantry, side-by-side refrigerator and freezer. The appliances were all stainless steel, shiny and modern—and looked barely used. What a shame.
“This is absolutely amazing. When can I move in?” She bit her lip. That one slipped out unaware. No way would Josh let that one go unanswered.
“That could be arranged,” he said, never one to waste an opportunity. Circling her waist from behind, he kissed her neck and hugged her close. “It does seem a colossal waste to have a kitchen like this and not be able to put it to good use.”