Abby looked at Cade. She noticed he’d shaved and changed into fresh black jeans and a wine-colored polo shirt. “It’s never been easy to tell Brandon no. He’s so sweet. Always has been. Even as a baby he was good.”
Cade’s gaze locked with hers. “Do you think I could see his baby pictures?”
“Of course. I’ll give you some albums to take home. You can keep any you want.”
Cade found that his anger at Abby had been subsiding in the past few days. Baby photos weren’t going to change anything, but hanging on to negative feelings wouldn’t, either. At least now he could be with his son. And the more time he spent with Brandon, the more he realized how blessed he was to have this child. All he wanted to do was concentrate on making a life with the boy…and Abby. But Cade knew that was going to take some time.
“You want to go for a walk?” he asked. “It’s too nice a day to stay inside.”
She looked surprised. “Sure.”
Cade took Abby’s hand, and they walked through the house to the kitchen to tell Carmen that Brandon was napping. She grabbed a sun hat and together they walked out into the sunny afternoon. It was hot, but not more than usual for a Texas summer day. Silently they made their way toward the barn and corral.
“Does Brandon miss Midnight Dancer?” Cade asked.
“He hasn’t said a whole lot,” Abby confessed. “You’ve had him pretty busy lately with the roundup and all.”
“I wanted to take him to Chance’s place today, but I was afraid I’d wear him out.”
“I can tell he loved every minute of the morning. You’ve been such a good influence on him.”
Cade laughed. “I bet your daddy wouldn’t feel that way.”
Abby stole a glance at him as they went into the barn. The sudden dimness made her blink, and it took a moment for her eyes to adjust. “My daddy never knew you like I did.”
The last thing Cade wanted was to get into a long discussion about Tom Moreau, so he changed the subject. “I managed to talk with an architect this morning. We’ve set up a meeting for tomorrow. Is that convenient for you?”
Abby looked surprised. “That’s fine. Thank you for including me.”
“I wouldn’t ever exclude you. Not from the business or my time with Brandon. I meant what I said, Abby. I want us to be partners. Most of all I want us to be a family.” He stopped and took her by the arms. “I also want to be with you.”
Her eyes filled with tenderness. “I want that, too,” she admitted in a whisper.
Cade’s heart swelled. Finally. “You do?”
She nodded slowly. “I’m scared, Cade, but I want us to share Brandon’s life.”
“Does that mean you’ll marry—”
She raised a hand. “I can’t say, not now.” She closed her eyes. “My marriage to Joel was a disaster, but I can’t put all the blame on him. I don’t want to rush into anything.” Her green eyes searched his face. “Could we maybe…date to see if…”
His pulse raced. “I’d like that.” He smiled. “I love my son, but there are times I’d like to be alone with you.”
She laughed. “Welcome to parenthood.”
He leaned forward and placed a kiss on her inviting mouth. “After the meeting with architect tomorrow, I promised Brandon I’d take him riding. But we’ll be back by supper. How would you like to go out to dinner?”
“Just you and me? I’d like that.”
He couldn’t resist kissing her again. This time he wrapped his arms around her, dragging her closer. Finally he released her. “Whoa, I think we better stop before things get out of hand.”
“That seems to happen a lot with us,” Abby said, looking away as if embarrassed.
He touched her cheek and made her look at him. “There’s nothing wrong with the way we feel.”
She drew a long breath. “It scares me sometimes.”
“I’d never hurt you, Abby.”
“I know.” Her voice became husky. “I remember…how gentle you were, how loving.”
And as hard as he’d tried over the years, he hadn’t been able to forget, either. He pulled her close. “I remember, too.”
Cade dressed in a dark business suit, a snowy-white shirt with a paisley tie and the usual Texan footwear—boots. Shiny black custom-made boots.
He was the picture of success, Abby thought as they sat with the architect going over the plans for the retreat. They wanted a unique design for their cabins, something that fit in with the landscape and was private enough to attract everything from nature hikers to newlyweds. Once satisfied that James Nyce was their man, their next stop was a civil engineer, who would survey the land.
Instead of driving home, Cade headed to Chance’s ranch to talk with him and Joy. They needed to know what was happening.
When Cade and Abby pulled into the drive, Joy came out to meet them. She ran down the steps.
“What a surprise.” She hugged Cade, then Abby. “Where’s Brandon?”
Cade had removed his tie and suit jacket. “He’s at home with Carmen. We thought we’d let you know about our meetings this morning. Is Chance around?”
“He’s in the barn. Come on inside and I’ll call him.”
They walked through the yard, where they were greeted by the family’s Labradors, Sunny and Ginger. When Joy finally shooed the dogs away, Abby and Cade followed her inside.
“Excuse the mess,” she said. “We still haven’t finished in here. Seems everything I selected had to be back-ordered. For now, you’ll have to use your imagination.”
Abby looked around the kitchen. New whitewashed cabinets were up, but the countertops were sheets of plywood, the floor the same. “It’s going to look beautiful when it’s finished,” she said.
“One can always hope,” Joy said. “Please, sit down.” She directed them to the scarred maple table, then went to the phone, punched in a number and waited. “Honey, your brother and Abby are here. Sure.” She hung up. “He’ll be here in a minute. How about some coffee?”
“Sounds great,” Cade said.
Joy went to the cupboard and pulled down four mugs. “And you’re staying for lunch, so don’t even argue. Seems like forever since I’ve seen you two. I hear Brandon was sick, and you had to take him to the emergency room.”
“It turned out to be stomach flu.”
Joy frowned. “Anytime your child is sick, it’s scary.”
Abby knew that was true, but the look on Cade’s face that night had surprised her. He’d been just as afraid as she’d been.
“This parenting stuff is all new to me,” Cade said. “I wish there was a class to go to.”
Chance walked in the back door. He was dressed in faded jeans and chaps. He smiled and Abby could see the strong Randell-family resemblance. “So you came over to ask for advice on how to be a great dad?”
“Very funny,” Cade said. “You don’t have that much experience. A few months.”
He kissed Joy. “More than you.”
Cade smiled then. “Everyone has more than me. But I’m learning fast.”
Chance brought his coffee to the table and sat down. “That’s the secret, bro—you got to keep one step ahead of them.”
They all laughed.
“Why don’t we continue this over lunch?” Joy suggested.
Abby helped Joy prepare the meal while Chance and Cade went over the progress of the project. The women voiced their opinions when needed. As they were finishing up the discussion, Abby heard Katie wake up from her nap. She offered to go get her.
After Joy fed her, she handed her back to Abby.
Cade watched in wonder as the two got acquainted. He was amazed at how easily Abby held and talked to the baby. She was the picture of motherhood.
“Oh, I miss this stage,” Abby said. “They’re so cute. They smile and coo at everything you say. Their eyes follow you everywhere.” As if cued, Katie began making sounds and waving her arms.
Joy came up beside her. “I’m kind of waiting for the stage
when they entertain themselves more. I can’t seem to get anything done when she’s awake. She sleeps through the night, though.” Joy took the baby from Abby and went to Cade. “I think Katie and her uncle Cade need some time together.”
Cade wasn’t prepared when she nearly dumped the pink bundle in his arms. “Hey, wait. How do I do this?”
“Figure it out, Uncle. Come on, Abby,” Joy said. “I want to show you my newly decorated bedroom.” As they started out of the kitchen, Joy turned. “You guys think you can handle things while we’re gone?”
“Piece of cake,” Chance said and waved them off.
Cade looked down at little Katie and found her staring up at him. He thought she was going to cry when her face turned all red, then the usually sweet bundle took on a new odor, and not a pleasant one. “Ah, Chance, I think we have an emergency here.”
His brother leaned over, caught a whiff and began to laugh. “I guess the little princess has finally initiated you. Come on, Cade.” Chance stood. “I’ll show you what you missed with Brandon.”
At this late date Cade wasn’t all that sure he wanted to experience it. But what choice did he have? He doubted his brother was going to let him just watch.
Joy escorted Abby into the beautiful master suite. The off-white carpeting was plush and set off the huge mahogany four-poster bed. A burgundy comforter adorned the mattress, along with navy and cream toss pillows stacked against the headboard. The windows were covered with wooden blinds, and two Tiffany lamps sat on tables on either side of the bed.
“This is lovely.”
Joy went to the double doors that led into the nursery. “When Katie is a little older, Chance wants to turn this room into a master bath.”
“That’ll be wonderful.” What Abby envied wasn’t the home as much as the relationship Joy and Chance had. It was obvious how much the couple loved each other. Abby could see it every time they were together.
“It’s Chance who’s been wonderful,” Joy said as she sat down on the bed and motioned for Abby to join her. “You know our marriage didn’t start out in exactly a conventional way. But when we discovered our true feelings, we renewed our vows and decided to make this house our home. It was Chance’s idea to redecorate this room first. He said it was a new beginning for us.” Joy’s blue eyes locked with Abby’s. “You can tell me it’s none of my business, but what’s going on between you and Cade?”
Abby blinked at the blunt question. “Well, we’re working on the project…to help save the ranch for Brandon.”
“That not what I meant. I have an idea of what that man has on his mind when he can’t keep his eyes off you. And Cade’s not thinking about his son when he looks at you.”
“Cade and I realize…there’re still a lot of feelings between us. But we have issues, and the major one is that I didn’t tell him about Brandon…” Abby took a long breath. “I don’t think Cade can ever completely forgive me.”
Joy studied her. “I know how stubborn the Randell men can be. Chance put me though a lot. And he’d probably still be holding back if I hadn’t forced the issue. I found my opportunity, let him know how I felt, then I seduced him.”
Abby smiled. “That’s not our problem. Cade wants to marry me. He wants us to make a home for Brandon.”
Joy arched an eyebrow. “And this is a bad thing?”
“It is if the man you love can never return that love.”
“Then work through it together. Marriages have started on a lot less. Look at Chance and me. He didn’t even like me at first. He’d planned on buying this ranch when I showed up to claim it as the only heir.
“Then he figured he could get me to sell out, and when the Randell men want something, they go after it.” A smile appeared on her face. “And I’m awfully glad he did. He’s a loving husband and father. He adores Katie as if she’s his own. And as far as I’m concerned, Chance is her father.” Joy paused. “I mean it, Abby. When it comes to love, sometimes you have to convince the man that you’re the only woman for him.”
Abby wanted to share Joy’s enthusiasm, but it was difficult. “What if you’re wrong about Cade?”
Joy shook her head. “I’m telling you, Abby, Cade Randell loves you. He’s just not ready to admit it yet.”
True or not, Abby doubted that Cade would ever admit it to himself, let alone to her.
Chapter Nine
Cade was pulling on his boots when he heard a knock on his bedroom door.
Ella called out. “You decent?” she asked.
Cade grinned. “There’s some people around here would say I never was.”
The Circle B housekeeper peered inside, then walked in carrying a freshly ironed white shirt. “They didn’t know what a sweet boy you were underneath all that anger,” she said.
“You’re one of a kind, Ella. Thanks.” Cade took the shirt and kissed the woman on the cheek.
For as long as he could remember, Ella had worn jeans and a serviceable cotton blouse. In the winter she switched to a plaid flannel shirt. Over the years her dark hair had turned gray, but she still wore the same no-nonsense clothing.
“How did you ever handle three hoodlums?” Cade repeated one of the many names the Randell boys had been called by the community.
She waved her hand. “You three weren’t all that tough. Once Hank and I straightened out the trouble other people caused, all you and your brothers needed was some love.” Her voice lowered with emotion. “And I was lucky, because I got a lot back in return. So don’t go thinkin’ raising you boys was only a chore. There were many benefits. Now that you have a son, you’ll understand what I mean.” She shook her head and smiled. “You and Chance, daddies. Now, don’t that beat all. So when are you going to bring that young man around so we can spoil him?”
Cade fastened the snaps on his shirt. “Soon, I hope, but you’ll have to get in line behind me.”
“I just bet Abby might have something to say about that.”
Cade had no doubt Abby was a good mother, but all he wanted was a chance to be a good father. If she would let him. “You’re right, she does.” He sighed. “All I want is to tell Brandon I’m his father. Abby wants to wait a little longer.”
Ella pursed her lips. “That’s not an easy thing to tell a seven-year-old. Brandon hasn’t done too well in the daddy department. After losing his grandfather so recently, maybe a little more time wouldn’t hurt.”
That wasn’t what Cade wanted to hear. “It’s killing me. I want Brandon to know I’m his father.”
“He will. Remember, Cade, you’ve only been home a short time. Just let Brandon know you’re going to be here for him, that you love him. That’s what that child needs right now.”
Cade didn’t like it, but he had to agree. He remembered, back when his daddy had been arrested for rustling, how the kids in school teased him and his brothers ruthlessly. How many fights he’d gotten into. He’d used his fists to try to erase the pain, the loneliness, the shame.
Cade’s thoughts went to Hank’s birthday party and how fierce Brandon got when he thought someone was threatening his mother. Had his son learned to fight because of Garson’s abuse? Would it get worse when he became a Randell?
“Ella, I want my son to have my name.”
She smiled. “Of course you do.”
“But but there are still people out there who hate the Randells. Tom Moreau was one of them.”
She raised an eyebrow. “So that’s what has you bothered.”
Cade nodded.
“Well, all I can say is what Hank told you boys years ago when you first came to the Circle B. You aren’t your daddy, and don’t let people make you think you’re like him.” Ella’s eyes watered. “Cade, you’ve worked hard to get where you are. You are a good honest man, and any child would be proud to have you for his daddy.”
Emotion clogged Cade’s throat as he pulled the older woman into a tight embrace. “Oh, Ella, I’ve missed you.” He kissed her cheek again.
“Well, you’re
not going to miss me anymore. You’re home where you belong.”
Was he? Could he make a home for Brandon—and a life with Abby? Could he forgive and forget? It still stung that she had chosen Garson over him and kept Brandon from him. He wanted Abby in the worst way, but he couldn’t risk his heart.
As if Ella could read his mind, she touched his arm. “You’ve got to let go of the past, Cade. It’s not going to do you any good to beat it into the ground. You can’t change a thing. Just like you can’t change your feelings for Abby.”
He tried to protest, but she raised her hand.
“You’re not foolin’ anyone, Cade Randell. So get rid of your anger and go after that girl.”
“I’ve already asked her to marry me. She told me it wouldn’t work.”
“Then you must’ve been doin’ it wrong.” Ella crossed her arms. “So figure out the right way to do it.”
Cade grinned. “I’m trying my best.” He turned toward the dresser mirror to examine his attire, a western-cut shirt and new black jeans and boots.
“See that you do.” The housekeeper sighed as she stood behind him, glancing into the same mirror. “Well, if looks count for anything, you and your brothers have always been the most handsome boys in the county. Though it wouldn’t hurt to remember some of that Texas charm when you’re out tonight.”
He cocked an eyebrow. “Yes, ma’am.”
“And make sure Abby knows that you’re here to stay.”
Cade turned around. He’d enjoyed being home this past month. He hadn’t even known how much he’d missed everyone. “I’m not going anywhere. I’m home.”
Two hours later Cade parked the truck on the side of the street and went around to help Abby out. She thanked him as she stepped down on to the pavement of historic Concho Avenue.
It was his pleasure, he thought as he eyed her violet sundress with its full skirt. She had on rope-soled sandals that strapped around her slim ankles, accenting her long gorgeous legs.
A Child for Cade Page 11