She clapped her wrinkled hands together and smiled. “Oh, wonderful. I love little Bella. She’s such a sweet girl.”
“Of course, I’ll pay you extra for a third child.”
She headed to the sink and turned on the faucet. After squirting a dollop of soap into her hands, she began to scrub. “You’ll do no such thing. I love children, so the more the merrier.”
This woman was too good to be true. Since the boys lost their mother, they’d never been left with a babysitter. What if something were to happen to them while he was gone? The guilt would have been more than he could bear. But after some therapy sessions, he’d finally realized he had to learn to trust an outsider. After all, his wife had died on his watch.
“You’ll be well compensated for your time.”
Tyler walked over to Mrs. Whipple as she dried her hands on a red-and-white-striped dishcloth. “Do you like to do jigsaw puzzles, ma’am?”
She laughed. “Yes, dear, but please call me Whippy. That’s what all of the kids in Whispering Slopes call me.”
“Whippy!” both of the boys repeated as they broke out in giggles.
“Why do they call you that?” Jordan asked with an intent stare.
Nick was a little curious himself.
“Well, it’s my name, for one, but also because I always put a dollop of whipped cream in my coffee,” she said with pride. “It adds the perfect amount of sweetness.”
“I like that name.” Tyler grinned at the elderly woman.
What a gem. Nick would have to make a point of taking a night off to go out now and then. He couldn’t help but wonder if, after tonight, he’d ask Joy to accompany him again.
His heart pounded once again at the sound of the doorbell.
“Bella!” The twins cheered and headed off to greet her.
“They’re certainly energetic.” Whippy smiled.
“You have no idea. Excuse me, please.” Nick walked out of the kitchen and stopped dead in his tracks. Joy stood at the front door, her chestnut hair cascaded over her shoulders in loose waves. The light pink leather coat she wore gave her complexion a warm glow. When he started to speak, his tongue was tangled. Boy, am I in big trouble. He needed to get a grip or he’d end up being a blubbering fool tonight.
“Uncle Nick— Oops!” She glanced at her aunt. “I mean Mr. Nick!” Bella ran to him, dressed in a neon yellow coat and blue jeans. She took a flying leap into his arms.
“Hi, Bella. It’s good to see you, too,” he laughed and placed her back on the ground. “The boys have been looking forward to your visit.”
Jordan stepped toward her. “Guess who’s babysitting us tonight?”
She scanned the room. “Whippy!” Bella headed across the room and hugged the woman.
Nick turned his attention back to Joy. “Please come in. Can I get you something to drink? Iced tea, water or maybe a soda?”
“Oh, no. Thank you, though. By the way, great job on the babysitter selection. All of the children in town adore her.”
Right now, the only woman he adored was the beautiful creature standing in front of him. He couldn’t seem to pull his eyes away from her. Or speak.
“Nick?” She rested her hand on his arm. “Are you okay?”
He flinched at her touch. “Yes. I’m sorry. Let’s go on into the kitchen. I need to get Mrs. Whipple—I mean, Whippy—squared away with pizza money.”
Thirty-five minutes later, the striking couple caused heads to turn as the hostess guided Nick and Joy to their seats inside of Nick’s favorite Italian restaurant. Several generations of the Romano family had run That’s Amore. He’d brought Joy here on their first date. Apart from terrific food, the atmosphere couldn’t be beat. Flickering candles paired with dim overhead lighting provided a romantic backdrop for the perfect date. But this wasn’t a date—was it? Perhaps this wasn’t the best place to discuss his plan.
He wasn’t sure if it was the sweet smell of her jasmine fragrance or the way the lighting cast a warm glow across Joy’s face, but his head started to spin. Reaching for his glass of ice water, he lifted it from the table and guzzled it in one long gulp.
“Thirsty?” She smiled.
“Actually, I’m a bit nervous.”
Joy fingered her cloth napkin draped across her lap. “Why? It’s just a dinner, remember? You said you had something you wanted to discuss.”
He wasn’t quite ready to bring up his plan. For now, he was content to drink in her beauty and enjoy this romantic setting. Lately, his imagination seemed to be in overdrive. Being married to Joy and raising the boys together and, who knew, maybe a couple of children of their own. But those thoughts could never become reality without him coming clean about what kind of husband he had been. But people could change, right? Would Joy be able to give him a second chance, once she knew the truth? Doubtful. He didn’t trust himself to be a good partner, so why would he expect her to, especially after he’d abandoned her?
“Are you okay?” Joy asked.
“Do you remember the first time we came here?”
A warm smile crossed her lips.
This was good. Maybe she had the same fond memories of this place that he had. Of course, the time spent here was before he left and she lost all trust in men.
She gazed around the room. “Of course I do. You were so nervous.”
“What? Are you kidding? I’d scored a date with the most beautiful girl in Whispering Slopes. I was completely confident.” That couldn’t have been farther from the truth. He remembered his stomach had felt like it was full of a couple dozen bats when he’d rung the doorbell at her grandparents’ house.
“Oh, come on, Nick,” she laughed. “When you picked me up and walked me to the car, your hands were shaking so bad you would have thought the temperature was minus zero, but it was the middle of summer.”
Yep...that sounded about right. He only hoped she didn’t remember what happened next.
“And then...”
Oh, great, she did.
As Joy laughed out loud, the elderly couple seated at a nearby table looked over at her and smiled. “You put the key into the ignition and the car wouldn’t start. You went into a total panic.”
He’d never been so mortified in his life. Now, sitting across from her after they’d both experienced so much during their time apart, he could laugh at himself. “All right, I remember. I’d been so nervous when I got out of the car at your house I’d just yanked the keys from the ignition and forgotten to put the car into Park.”
“You were ready to call a tow truck when I spotted the problem.” She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “All I can say is it was a good thing you were parked on a flat surface.”
They both shared a good long laugh until the waiter approached to take their order.
He and Joy had always ordered the same thing: spaghetti and meatballs along with a tomato-and-basil salad and a side order of garlic bread to share. He wondered if she’d remember.
Joy placed her menu on the table and locked eyes with him. “The usual?”
Her vivid memory caused Nick’s heart to beat in an accelerated rhythm. With soft Italian music filling the air, he turned to the young man waiting with a pad of paper and a pencil and placed the order—their usual.
By the time the waiter cleared the plates, every morsel had been eaten, with the exception of half a piece of Joy’s bread.
“I see you still have that healthy appetite.” He smiled, wondering where she put it all.
She leaned back in the chair. “I’ll have to go walking tomorrow. My ankle feels back to normal, so I should be able to start running again by next week.”
“I might have to join you.” He couldn’t think of a better way to start his day than a long walk or run with Joy. Having the boys tag along would be nice, too.
The server returned to their t
able with smaller menus in his hand. “Can I offer both of you dessert?” He handed them each a listing.
Joy released a long breath. “I’m not sure where I’d put it.”
They’d always complained about being stuffed after their meal, but they still liked to share a cannoli.
She tossed him a devious smile and nodded.
“One cannoli—two forks,” he instructed the young man.
“And two espressos, please,” Joy added. “I’m so relaxed. This is nice.”
The waiter scribbled on his pad, took the menus and headed off to the kitchen.
Joy clasped her hands together in front of her. “So, what was it you wanted to discuss?”
Unsure of how receptive she’d be, he took a deep breath. “Actually, I wanted to talk about our upcoming interviews.”
Joy’s back straightened. “Do you really want to spoil the evening by trying to convince me I’m not qualified for the position?”
He reached across the table and covered her hand with his own. “Of course not. The past couple of weeks, I’ve watched you with the children—you’re amazing with them...especially with Jordan and Tyler. You’re more than qualified to become principal with or without the master’s degree.”
“Thank you. I needed to hear that. Lately, a lot of insecurities I thought were under control have resurfaced.”
Had his return to Whispering Slopes caused her angst? Or could her rehashing that horrible night be playing a part? He had hoped talking about it and bringing it out into the open would help her with the healing process. Of course, he couldn’t even imagine experiencing a violent attack like she had.
He gave her hand a quick squeeze. “Personally, I think you’re the strongest woman I’ve ever known.”
The conversation quieted when the waiter brought the coffee and dessert. He placed it on the table and put his hands behind his back. “Let me know if you need anything else.” He scurried off to his next table.
Nick passed the fork to Joy. “Here, take a bite. I think a little bit of sugar is just what we need.”
She smiled and speared the cannoli.
“Are you sure you can handle that big bite?”
Joy nodded and slid an oversize helping into her mouth. “Mmm...it’s just as delicious as I remember.”
He laughed. It was nice to see her enjoying herself. Many times since he’d returned to Whispering Slopes he’d noticed so much sadness in her eyes and now he knew why. But at this moment, she was the old Joy who he’d loved so much.
With her fork halfway to her mouth, she stopped. “What’s the matter? Don’t you want a taste?”
“Of course.” He cut a bite and crammed it into his mouth. “I’m not going to let you eat the entire piece alone.” Being here with Joy, he’d almost felt that God was offering him another opportunity, but maybe that was wishful thinking. “Yum...it’s delicious.” He smiled. The treat melted in his mouth, but the bitter taste of his past mistakes still lingered.
With no crumb left behind, Joy sipped on her espresso. “We don’t need to discuss the interviews any longer because there will only be one—yours.” She rolled her eyes away from his and stared at her coffee cup.
He couldn’t believe his ears. Something wasn’t adding up. This was her dream. “I don’t understand.”
“I’m going to cancel my appointment. Faith’s doctor is erring on the side of caution and wants to perform a C-section a week from tomorrow. It’s the same time as my interview.” Her shoulders notched down and she looked defeated.
“I’m sorry to hear about Faith, but I’m sure, given the circumstances, the board will reschedule.”
She looked up at him. “I’m beginning to think this is a sign.”
He scratched his temple. This was crazy. She wanted this position more than anything. Why would she give up now? “That’s nonsense. This is what you want.”
“Honestly, Nick, lately I have no idea what I want.” She paused. “Besides, you’re a much more desirable candidate than I am.”
He’d never heard Joy talk this way. She’d always been a fighter. “I can’t agree with that. I don’t have over ten years of experience at that school—you do.”
Nick reached across the table. Her hand felt like satin under his fingertips. “Promise me you’ll reschedule.”
Her cell phone chirped, not allowing her a chance to respond. “I’m sorry. I left this on because of Faith.”
He missed the feel of her skin when he pulled his hand away. “No, of course.”
Fear washed over her face as she took the call. She hung up and sprang from her chair. “It’s Faith. Joshua has taken her back to the emergency room. I have to go.”
He whipped his wallet from his pocket and threw a wad of bills on the table. The cash took care of their bill and provided a hefty tip for their waiter. “I’ll get you to the hospital.”
Inside the car, he jammed the key into the ignition and the motor charged to life. “Don’t worry, Joy. Your sister is strong. She and the babies will be okay.”
As he hugged the dark winding curves of the mountain roads, he prayed he was right about Faith and her children. One thing he knew for sure: this woman sitting next to him was willing to give up her dream for her twin. No way would he allow that to happen. Tomorrow morning he’d set his plan into motion.
Chapter Eleven
Joy’s stomach had twisted after she’d received the frantic call from Joshua, and now the snakelike road wasn’t helping. She closed her eyes and prayed silently. Please, Lord, let Faith be okay. I promise I’ll work on my jealousy issues. I know it’s wrong and I’m ashamed of myself. I love my sister. Please watch over her and the babies. I’m not sure Faith is able to handle another devastating loss in her life. I trust that You’ll keep them safe. Amen.
She jumped at the warm touch against her arm.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to startle you. I wanted to make sure you’re okay.” Nick spoke softly.
She nodded. Afraid she’d burst into tears, she kept her lips firmly pressed together.
They traveled the rest of the way to the hospital in silence.
Her pulse raced when she spotted the red glow of the ER sign. Nick pulled up to the curb in front of the entrance and jammed his brakes. The SUV skidded to an abrupt stop.
Joy unfastened her seat belt and sprang from the vehicle. As she ran inside, she heard Nick saying he’d park and be right in. She sprinted toward the front desk and felt a little relieved when she saw Myra was the nurse on duty.
“Joy! I’ve been waiting for you.” The blonde nurse with spiral curls came around from behind the desk. A good friend for several years, she took Joy into her arms and held her close. “I’m so sorry.”
Joy pulled back. “What happened? I thought her blood pressure had stabilized. The doctor said he could give the babies a little more time. He’d scheduled the C-section for a week from tomorrow.”
The intercom overhead sounded with a hiss and filled her ears with a loud and annoying static. A garbled voice said something that couldn’t be understood.
Myra glanced up. “I thought Henry fixed that thing.” She looked at Joy. “I’m sorry. You’re right, but this evening her blood pressure skyrocketed, so Joshua brought her in to be checked out. It’s higher than it’s ever been.” She reached for Joy’s hand. “I’ve never seen someone’s pressure go that high.”
She wasn’t sure if it was Myra’s cold hand or her words, but a shiver rattled Joy’s spine. “Where is she now?”
“The doctor is prepping her for surgery.” She led Joy to the waiting area. Thankfully all of the chairs were empty. Joy wasn’t in the mood to be around other people, but in that moment, she craved Nick’s presence.
“Is Joshua with her?”
“Yes. He won’t leave her side. Every woman should be so fortunate to have a husband l
ike him.”
Joy knew her brother-in-law adored her sister. Faith was blessed to have a man love her as much as Joshua. Would she ever have a relationship like her sister shared with her husband? Doubtful. Faith deserved it, not her.
The sound of heavy shoes trouncing down the hall pulled her back into the moment.
“How’s Faith?”
She turned and spotted Nick. Judging by his flushed chiseled features, he’d run all of the way from the parking lot. His concern warmed her heart.
“She’s not good. They’re getting her ready for surgery.” Joy ran her fingers through her hair as she paced the floor.
“Why don’t you have a seat? If you’d like, I can get you both a nice hot cup of coffee,” Myra offered in a sweet tone.
The strong yet soft sensation of Nick’s hand on Joy’s arm guided her to the chairs. He turned to the nurse. “Thank you, Myra. That would be wonderful.”
As soon as Joy settled into the cold fake-leather chair, her thoughts drifted to Bella.
“I need to call Mrs. Whipple... I mean Whippy.”
Nick slipped into the seat next to her. “It’s already taken care of. I’ve arranged for Whippy to stay overnight, so you don’t have to worry.”
Was this what it would be like to have a partner in life? Someone who’d take care of your needs without even having to ask? Someone who’d hold a cool washcloth to your forehead when you had the flu? This was what she’d always wanted—the love of a strong and faithful man along with the security of a family. She guessed that was normal for someone whose parents were snatched away at such a young age. Her sister knew what it was like to always feel safe. A twinge of jealousy ran through Joy’s heart. Didn’t she deserve that, too? Guilt settled in. She should be happy for her sister...not envious. But watching her sister’s family grow, Joy had to admit it was becoming more difficult to keep those thoughts away. Was it because of Nick being back in her life?
“Hey, are you okay?” Nick ran his hand across her shoulder.
His touch gave her heart a little leap. A part of her loved the feeling, but she knew those feelings came with risks...ones she wasn’t sure she was ready to take. “Yes, I’m fine.” Her statement couldn’t have been farther from the truth. Her mind was a jumbled mess of wanting Nick next to her, but at the same time needing him to be far away.
A Mother for His Twins Page 13