by Judith Keim
“Okay. I’ve set up an appointment with Marty later in the week regarding my business. And I’ve placed an ad for a flower designer to help us at the shop.”
Gran’s eyes widened, but she said, “I suppose it’s time to do that.”
###
After Gran and her parents left, Em stayed at the kitchen table talking to Elena.
Andrew turned to Devin. “C’mon. I’ll show you the town.”
“Sounds good.” Devin turned to her. “Thanks for lunch.”
Em laughed. “Don’t thank me. Thank Elena and Andrew. It was all their stuff.”
“Okay then,” Devin said with a little bow, “I thank all of you for a great lunch.”
Alone with Elena, Em struggled to hide her emotions. Her sister wasn’t anyone she could fool. Sure enough, when Em faced her, Elena’s smile was smug.
“So, the two of you are just friends. Is that it?”
“Yes. We’re both busy professionals.”
“Really? Is that what you tell one another?” Elena shook her head. “Amazing.”
“I don’t want to go back to my old self, dreaming up possibilities that aren’t there. Besides, nothing could come of it. I’m setting up my own business here. It’s important. I need to know I can make a go of it, or I’ll always wonder if I wasn’t good enough.”
“Ouch! I’ve obviously touched a nerve,” said Elena. “I’m sorry. I really am. Let’s talk about the floral designer you want to hire. Any ideas where you’ll find someone like that?”
“I’m hoping to get someone nearby. Ellenton is a nice town. Maybe someone would even move here. By the way, Kat called me yesterday.”
Elena’s eyes gleamed. “That was nervy of her. Tell me all about it. What did she want?”
By the time Em had filled in her sister with the details, they were both shaking their heads.
“You were so smitten with Jared that you wouldn’t listen to any of us. I guess he affected Kat the same way,” said Elena.
A knock on the door brought both of them to her feet.
“I bet it’s the delivery,” Elena said smiling.
When Em opened the door, she saw a delivery truck with the name of a company she loved. She turned to Elena. “Oh, my word! What has Gran done?”
“You’ll see. You’re the one who told me about it,” said Elena, refusing to say more.
The minute Em saw the headboard come off the truck she clapped her hands. “Now I can sleep someone in my guest room. Wonderful!”
Elena grinned “And now I’m able to comfortably spend the night. Gran knew I’d want to, and she also knew she’d feel better if you had someone with you.”
“She’s the best,” Em said, directing the delivery man inside the condo.
Later, after the bed had been put together, Em and Elena made up the bed with the clean sheets, blanket, and quilt that had been purchased with the bed.
Standing back looking at it, Em’s heart filled with love. Her family was the best.
The sound of feet on the stairs caught her attention. She turned to see Andrew and Devin.
“Come see what Gran gave Em for a housewarming gift,” Elena said. “I’m going to spend the night here so Em isn’t all alone in the complex.”
Devin frowned. “What do you mean, all alone?”
“The other condos are being sold, but no one has scheduled to move into the complex for another five days or so,” Em explained.
Devin continued to frown but didn’t say anything.
The rest of the afternoon was spent with the four of them lounging in the living room watching an action movie the guys loved. Em fixed microwave popcorn, and with the four of them sitting together on the couch, she thought it was the perfect way to celebrate her new home.
After they’d ordered and eaten a Chinese dinner, Em sat in the kitchen with Elena, Andrew, and Devin chatting about the forthcoming baby and how it could change anyone’s life.
Em hesitated and then blurted, “I’m thinking of adopting a child or maybe even becoming a foster parent.”
“Whaaat?” said Elena. “What about having children of your own?”
“I want that too, but I may never meet the right person—someone who’s willing to live in Ellenton. In the meantime, I’m building a life and a business here. In addition, I don’t want to disappoint Gran. She’s worked hard to make her flower shop a success. And now Mom and Dad want me to buy her out.”
Elena shook her head. “Em, I think they believe they’re helping you, but they’re not if it means you don’t feel free to do your own thing.”
“Yeah,” said Andrew. “You can work with plants and flowers anywhere, if that’s what you really want.”
“But my family is here,” she said, wondering why she was defending herself when, in reality, she sometimes felt frustrated by the obligations that had been placed upon her.
“Oh, my God! I’m going to be sick! It must have been something I ate,” said Elena, rising and gripping the edge of the table. Her face turned white. She ran out of the room toward the half bath near the entrance.
Em started to go after her but stopped when Andrew hurried to catch up to her.
She turned to Devin. “Is she going to be all right?”
He gave her a reassuring smile. “I’m sure she’ll be fine.”
A few minutes later, Elena and Andrew returned to the living room.
“I’m sorry, Em, but I think I’d better stay at Mom and Dad’s house tonight. Andrew thinks it’s a good idea,” said Elena. She looked awful.
“Why don’t I stay here with Em? I don’t like the idea of how alone she is here.” Devin turned to her. “Is it okay if I stay?”
“Thanks. I’d feel better if someone were here,” she admitted, “but I don’t want to put you in an uncomfortable position. I slept here alone last night.”
Elena gave her a knowing look. “And how comfortable was that?”
When she hesitated to answer, Elena said. “I thought so. Devin, it would be wonderful if you took my place tonight and stayed here.”
“Consider it done,” Devin said, giving Elena a nod of assurance before turning to Em with a grin that made her wonder if this situation might be more dangerous than being left alone.
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
After Elena and Andrew left, Em tried to think of how to fill the awkward moment. Devin saved her by saying, “Why don’t we take a walk? I think it’s important for you to know your surroundings. Then you might not be so concerned about staying alone.” He studied her. “You don’t want to stay with your parents a few extra days?”
She shook her head. “I know it may sound silly, but I want this to be the start of something new for me—my own house and my own new business.”
“I get it,” he said. “Let’s take a look around.”
Em grabbed her jacket, and they walked out the door.
Hers was the second building in the complex. The others formed a circle around a courtyard that held the clubhouse, which was in the midst of construction, and a swimming pool. Lights shone from the outside walls of the clubhouse and from the street lights that had been installed on the property. But in the dark, there were a lot of spaces that clung to shadows.
“This is going to be very nice when it’s completed,” Devin remarked, indicating the clubhouse and the rest of the property. “I’m happy for you.”
“Thanks. Did Andrew show you the rest of the town?” she asked.
“Yes. It, too, is very nice. I understand why you don’t want to leave here.” He shook his head. “I couldn’t wait to leave my hometown.”
She stiffened as a tall, heavy-set male figure walked toward them.
Though Devin lifted a hand in a wave, he drew closer to Em.
“Hey, there!” said the man. “What are you doing here? This property is private.” He studied them carefully as he stopped about ten feet from them.
Em let out the breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding. “I live here.”<
br />
“Ah, are you the woman in B #101?”
“Yes, Emerson Jordan,” she replied. “And this is my friend, Devin Gerard.”
The men shook hands. “I’m Nick Munro, the night guard.”
“Are you here every night?” Devin asked.
Nick shook his head. “Five nights a week. I’m off Sunday and Monday nights. Then I’m not sure who’s on. It changes from time to time.”
“I’m glad to meet you,” Em said.
“You have only a week or so, and then there’s going to be a lot more activity. I’m told that your building is sold out and the next one too. Be careful walking around, though. We wouldn’t want anyone to get hurt in the construction area and, as always, be careful with strangers.”
He went on his way.
Devin turned to her. “Feel better? He looks like he could take down anyone.”
“Looks like a former football player to me. And, yes, I do feel more secure knowing he’s around.”
“Good,” said Devin, taking her hand. “Better not trip. Now let’s look around.”
As they walked around the complex, they talked easily with one another about their plans, the latest weather report, and recent news on television. Em enjoyed the fact that Devin responded to her remarks without judgment. With some of the other men she’d dated, Jared, in particular, she’d been forced to measure her words carefully.
###
When they got back to the condo, Devin’s suitcase was sitting by the front door with a note from Andrew saying that he’d pick him up at six-thirty the next morning.
“Guess we’d better get you to bed,” said Em, blushing when she realized how that might sound. “I mean you’ve got to get up early, and it’s late.”
His eyes twinkled with humor. “I know what you meant.”
Later, standing in the living room and staring at the couch, she said, “Are you sure you want to sleep on the couch? The guest bed is made up with fresh bedding. It might be more comfortable for you there.”
“I think it’s better if I stay down here. I’ll be fine. And this way I won’t disturb you in the morning; I’ll just quietly slip out of the house. But I would like to use the guest room bathroom to take a shower now, if you don’t mind.”
“Not at all. Let me make sure you’ll have everything you need. I’m pretty sure we put fresh towels in there, but I’ll check.”
Em hurried up the stairs to the guest room. The thought of Devin naked in her condo sent her imagination into overdrive.
When she was certain he’d have everything he needed, she left the bathroom and went downstairs to the kitchen to fix herself a cup of hot tea.
Later, when Devin appeared in the living room carrying his Dopp kit with his personal gear and wearing only a pair of jeans, she knew she was in trouble.
“Guess, I’d better say goodnight and goodbye,” she said, standing. “I’m sure I’ll see you again. At the baby’s christening, if not before.”
Devin set down his belongings on the couch and walked over to her. “It’s been great seeing you.” His gaze lingered on her, sending her nerves on high alert.
He held out his arms, and without hesitation, she stepped forward into his embrace.
When his lips met hers, she closed her eyes as desire rolled through her in sensual waves. In all her years of dating, she’d never been kissed like this, and it felt so ... so delicious.
After a few moments, Devin lifted his head, stepped back, and drew a shaky breath. His green eyes darkened with concern. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done that. It only complicates matters, and I’d never want to hurt you.”
“Oh, but ...” Her voice trailed off. He was right. He had his important work to do in Florida and Costa Rica, and she had obligations in Ellenton. She fought her disappointment and smiled at him. “I’d still like to be friends. I’m able to talk to you freely about things, and I know when the time comes for me to build a family, I’ll need your advice.”
“Consider it done. You have my phone number.” He reached out and stroked her cheek. “Text me anytime.”
Tears stung Em’s eyes. She quickly blinked them away. “Thanks. Help yourself to anything you need in the morning. And safe trip, Devin.” She gave a little wave to him and hurried up the stairs, wondering why the timing of things never seemed to work for her.
###
The next morning, Em heard the sound of the front door closing, rolled over, and stared out the bedroom window, listlessly observing morning light slipping through the cracks in the blinds. She pushed aside her disappointment and thought of the time ahead. Today, if she was lucky, she’d be able to talk to Marty Caster about a partnership of sorts, allowing her to do consulting with some of his clients. With renewed energy, she bounded out of bed.
She was in the kitchen eating breakfast when Elena called. “Hi! I’m so sorry about last night. How did it go with Devin?” Her voice lowered. “Anything you want to tell me? It was the perfect time for you two to be able to figure things out.”
“Elena, it’s not that way between us,” she said as forcefully as she could, though she was beginning to think Elena was right all along. Devin was perfect for her in many ways. “Are you feeling better?”
“Yes. Now it’s just the usual ickiness that comes and goes with pregnancy. Mom made me her special tea, and I felt a lot better. Guess once you’re a mother, always a mother.”
A pang of envy pinched Em’s insides, but she brushed it away. In good time, her day would come.
“Want to meet for lunch?”
“Lunch sounds great,” said Elena. “Nothing fancy. How about the Lettuce Leaf?”
“Great. They have delicious soups and salads. I’ll pick you up at noon unless I have to do something for Gran. If so, I’ll call you.”
###
Sitting inside the Lettuce Leaf restaurant, Em was amused by the number of people who came over to their table to congratulate Elena on having a baby and to say hello to her.
“So nice to see the Jordan girls together,” warbled a friend of Gran’s. “Emerson, Julia is so glad you’re home and able to help with the flower shop. It means so much to her.”
“Yes, I know,” Em said politely. “I’m happy to help her and will also be starting my own business.”
After Gran’s friend left the table, Elena gave her a soulful look. “I understand now why it would never work between you and Devin. Like you said, you each have big commitments.”
They finished their Caesar salads in silence.
“How about dessert?” Em asked, giving Elena a sly look. “Want to split their famous Butter Cake?”
Elena grinned. “Only if you don’t mention it to anyone else. I was complaining about how hard it is to grow from my usual size to something that is beginning to look like I swallowed a melon.”
“It’s a deal,” said Em. “I haven’t had one of these deserts in a long time, but I know it’ll be worth it.”
“Oh, yes,” said Elena.
After they ordered it, they continued talking as they waited for its arrival.
“Mom has already spoken to me about christening the baby here in Ellenton at our church. We thought maybe 4th of July weekend. How would you feel about that?”
“It sounds nice. Much nicer than the last one. I can’t believe how foolish I was,” lamented Em.
“I’ve already asked Devin to save that weekend. Will it be awkward to see him again?”
Em frowned and shook her head. “No, of course not. In fact, it might be very good. He may help me with a couple of ideas I have.”
Elena arched her eyebrows but said nothing as their waitress approached.
“Enjoy,” said the waitress, smiling, setting down the cake on the table, and handing each of them a dessert spoon. “It’s my favorite of all.”
Em and Elena looked at the huge bowl in front of them and laughed.
With a knife, Elena drew a line down the middle of the cake topped with a mound of vanilla ice cream
drizzled with caramel sauce.
Em chuckled at the careful way Elena had divided it. She and her sister had shared a lot of things through the years. By the time they were ready to leave, Em’s belly was comfortably full.
Elena patted her round stomach. “I’ll have to walk a few extra blocks to burn off the calories, but I’d do it again. That was delicious.”
Em drove Elena to their mother’s house, ran inside to say hello, and then drove to her condo to do a little more unpacking.
###
The next morning, Em hurried to Rainbow’s End. She had an hour to start decorating the store before she was to meet Marty at AAA Landscapes.
Gran and Marilyn continued work in the back room as Em took apart the Valentine display in one of the front windows and began transforming it into a spring scene complete with pussy willows, tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. Sprinkled throughout, ceramic bunny rabbits paused, plants filled flowery pots, and small gifts added fun and texture.
A woman outside the store stopped and waved at her before entering.
“I love the new display. Can I buy a few pieces from there?” the customer asked.
“No, but we have duplicates.”
Gran entered the store. “I heard the bell.” Seeing the customer, Gran said, “Well, hello, Margery. Good to see you!” They hugged and then Gran said, “What can we do for you?”
Em went back to work, putting a finishing touch to the display.
“Can I help?” Marilyn asked, standing by.
“Yes, all these things from the Valentine window display need to be tagged for sale and put in our sale corner,” Em answered. “I have to leave for a meeting, but I’ll be back before we close.”
Excited and not a little nervous, Em grabbed her coat and her small briefcase and headed out, hoping for a good meeting. It would be the beginning of what she hoped would be a successful venture.
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
