by Paula Mowery
He used his key and stepped through the threshold of his parent’s house. The padding of bare feet on the hardwood floors drew closer. Avery barreled around the corner and into his legs.
“Hello to you, too.” He chuckled. Alyssa was right about that kind of greeting never growing old.
Dakota showed up seconds later. “Hi, Daddy.”
“What’s everybody up to?” Ben tousled his son’s hair.
Avery stood on the toes of his police boots, holding on to his knees. “Well, Nana is cooking and Grandpa is goofing.”
“Goofing?”
“That’s what Nana said. Looks like he’s reading the newspaper to me.” Dakota shrugged.
Ben grasped Avery’s arms and walked to the kitchen with her still riding the top of his shoes. Her giggles rang out. “Hey, Mom. I developed some kind of growth.” He tickled his daughter’s tummy until she jumped off.
“That growth looks a bit familiar.” Ben’s mother grinned and winked. “Supper is ready to put on the table. Call your dad, will you? And, everyone, wash your hands.”
Ben peeked into the den. “Dad, I believe it’s time to eat.”
His father stood, hand on his lower back, and stretched. “Good thing. Been smelling it for the last hour.”
He waited for his father at the doorway. “I think I may have found a house for us. Seems a good size and reasonable on the price. It’s not far from here. Just over in the next subdivision.”
His father nodded. “That’s good. But you know you can stay here as long as you need to. You don’t have to jump into anything.”
He laid his arm across his dad’s shoulders. “I do know that, Dad. And I truly appreciate it. But I need to find us a place and try to build this new life. Whatever it looks like.”
“Son, I’m proud of you. I’m not sure if I lost your mother if I could have had the initiative and bravery you have shown.”
Ben swallowed the lump in his throat. “Thanks. I guess you do what you have to do.” He turned to walk to the dining room but paused. “Don’t think I still won’t need your help. I definitely will.”
Dad patted Ben’s back. “We are always here for you and the kids.”
After supper, Ben toted both his children up the stairs and readied them for baths and bed. He had come to love this time. Both Avery and Dakota chattered on, telling him all about their school day. Alyssa had involved him in this time even when he was overseas through the computer. She would set the computer camera so he could watch and listen to these times before bed. His wife had done some special things to keep him involved in his children’s lives. He found himself especially grateful for that now.
Just as he finished the tucking in and prayers rituals, his cell phone buzzed. He ducked into his bedroom, hoping Jenna would be on the other end. His shoulders slumped when his father-in-law identified himself.
“Mr. Anderson. How are you?”
“We’re fine here. We wonder after being there with you and the children if maybe things aren’t fine there.”
“Excuse me?” Ben gritted his teeth.
“We’re concerned for the children, Ben. I’m not going to beat around the bush. We wonder if a different arrangement might be better for them.”
“What kind of different arrangement are you thinking?” Heat crept up Ben’s neck.
“We would like to take over custody of Avery and Dakota.”
“What?” Ben jumped to his feet off the bed. “Mr. Anderson, with all due respect, that is not going to happen.” He paced a path in front of the bed.
“Look, we don’t feel with your work schedule and your socializing that the children can be probably nurtured.”
“Well, sir, you can feel whatever you want, but you aren’t getting my kids. I believe this conversation is over. Good day.” Ben punched the end call button and plopped back down on the side of the bed. How dare they threaten me with taking my kids away. His hands balled into tight fist. He breathed in and exhaled in an attempt to calm. God, am I doing a bad job here? Am I not providing for my kids? I’ll never equal the parent Alyssa was, but am I ruining my kids’ lives?
His eyes misted. He changed clothes and trudged downstairs to the den.
His mother smiled. “Are those two out?”
Ben nodded. “Yeah. They finally wound down after telling me all about their day.”
His father leaned forward in his chair. “What’s wrong, son?”
He stroked his chin and swiped his hand down his face. “Got a call from the Andersons. Seems they think I’m not doing a good job parenting my kids.” He plunked onto the sofa.
“Good heavens.” His mother rolled her eyes. “They come for a visit for a couple of days, and now they think they know this?”
“Yes. They want to take custody of Avery and Dakota.”
Dad crossed his arms over his chest. “You have got to be kidding.”
“Nope.”
“What did you tell them?” Mom pulled her glasses off and gestured with them.
“I told Mr. Anderson that they weren’t getting my kids and the conversation was over.”
Mom nodded emphatically. “Good for you.” She replaced her glasses and mumbled. “Most ridiculous thing I ever heard.”
* * *
Ben slipped under the covers of his bed and reached for his phone. He texted Jenna goodnight and his phone rang immediately.
“Hello.”
“Ben, can you talk a minute?”
“Sure. Just crawled into bed.”
“Your voice sounds down. Are you okay?”
He wouldn’t burden her with the Anderson’s call. “I’m okay. A little tired.”
“I can let you go. Really.”
“No, I’m not too tired to talk to you. How’s your mom?”
“She’s doing really well. The doctor says she may not require any treatments of any sort, but they haven’t really gotten the tests back for that yet.”
“Does that mean you’ll be coming home? I’m sorry. That was really insensitive.”
“No. I’m glad…you miss me. It’s nice to be missed.”
“Well then, you should be super glad because I really miss you.”
“How’s things at the church?”
“They’ve gotten a pastor search committee together. I’m glad they jumped on that quickly. No need to drag feet there.”
“I agree. It will be good for the church to see work done to bring in another pastor. Keep morale up. Maybe even create a little excitement about new leadership. Anyway, I better let you go. Do you have an early shift?”
“My normal police shift—drop off the kids and get to the station. Mom will pick them up. At least I know I won’t have to stop the children’s minister rushing to work.” He chuckled.
“Funny. I’ll never live that one down, will I?”
“Um, probably not.”
“Goodnight, Ben.”
“Goodnight, Jenna. Thanks for calling.”
The call ended and his spirits lifted. He sank under the sheet and relaxed.
CHAPTER TEN
Jenna glimpsed Peter’s car parked at the curb in front of her parent’s house. She blew out an exasperated breath. Her mother recuperated at home and didn’t need intrusions from insensitive jerks. As she stepped from the car, Peter rushed to her side. She slammed the door and whirled around.
Peter grasped her shoulders with his hands. “Jenna, I’m glad that I caught you. Look, I’m sorry for coming in on you and your family during that rough time. I honestly didn’t know about your mother’s surgery.”
Jenna unclamped her teeth. “Okay.”
He tilted his head and grinned. “Do you have time for dinner now? I know you probably need to get away and relax, especially since your mom’s home now.”
“Peter, what do I have to do to get through to you? No, I don’t want to go out to dinner. I want to spend these last few days with her before I return to Myrtle Beach.”
His nostrils flared. “So you can’t
spare any time with me?”
“No, Peter, I can’t.”
“I think we need to discuss our relationship.”
“You never had time to discuss it before. In fact, you never had time to discuss anything.” She brushed past him and through the front door, then closed it firmly, planting her back against it.
“Jenna? Is that you, dear?” Her mother’s voice drifted from the den.
“Yes, Mom. It’s me.” She scurried to join her mother, perching on the edge of the ottoman. “How are you feeling?”
Her mother smiled. “You know, I do believe I’ve turned a corner. I’m not nearly as sore today. And I had a pretty exciting phone call, too.”
“Oh? From who?”
“The doctor.” She leaned forward and grabbed Jenna’s hands, squeezing them. “No treatments. I don’t have to have any treatments. My lymph nodes were great.”
Tears sprang to Jenna’s eyes. “Mom, that is exciting news. I’m so happy.”
“I called your dad. He’s bringing pizza, including one of those chocolate chip cookies.” Mom’s eyes danced with that familiar spark.
Jenna chuckled. Her mother’s fondness for pizza ensured this would be a true celebration.
“Also, this means you can get back to your job and Ben.” She winked.
Jenna shook her head. “I’ll stay as long as you need me. You still have to heal.”
Her mom patted her hand. “I’ve loved having you here, but you are needed there. But this definitely means I’ll be coming for a visit soon.”
“I can’t wait.”
* * *
Two days later, Jenna arrived back in Myrtle Beach, to be met by her roommate in the parking lot of their apartment.
Shawna hugged her. “I’ve missed you. I’m so glad you’re back.”
“Me too.” She lugged her suitcase inside and plopped onto the sofa. “Glad to be out of that car. Ugh.”
“Saved you some of my crock-pot potato soup.”
“You’re the best.”
Shawna shrugged. “I try.” She handed her a bowl and a soda.
Jenna swallowed the creamy goodness. “Mmm. That is so good. I’m going to enjoy this right now because I’ve got so much to tackle to get caught up.”
“The Fall Festival is next weekend, right?”
Jenna nodded.
Shawna waved a dismissive hand. “No worries. You’re Super Children’s Minister.”
Jenna sighed. “Super powers would certainly come in handy.”
Her phone buzzed. She peeked at the screen. A text from Ben. Are you back? Could I stop by on my way home? If you are too tired, I won’t be offended. She giggled.
“Ben?” Shawna wiggled her eyebrows.
Jenna bit her bottom lip and nodded. “He wants to stop by on his way home.”
“You’re going to tell him yes, right?”
“Is it okay with you?”
Shawna punched her arm. “Of course. Who am I to stand in the way of love?” She marched off toward the kitchen.
Jenna threw a cushion from the couch at her back. Her friend just laughed.
She replied quickly, inviting him to stop by. She sat up straight, panicking momentarily. She must look a mess after traveling in the car most of the day. Jumping to her feet, she dragged her luggage into her room and dug out her brush, running it through her hair. She dabbed her cheeks with some makeup powder. That would have to do.
She had barely unpacked one side of her suitcase when the doorbell rang. She sprinted to it but stopped to catch her breath.
She opened the door and her eyes met Ben’s. A shiver raced down her back. He stepped forward and brushed her lips with a kiss. Sparks sizzled in her stomach. Her insides settled enough for her to speak. “Come in.”
He slid past her. “I’m not staying. I know you have to be really tired.”
Jenna gestured toward the sofa. “Sit down, please.”
Ben sat and reached for her hand as she eased down next to him. “I wanted to share some news. I found a house for me and the kids. It’s just around the corner.” His brows rose.
“That’s great news. How about your parents? Are they okay with it?”
“Yeah, they understand that we need our own space. But I assured them that I still need them desperately to help with the kids.”
“So, when’s the big move?”
Ben threaded his fingers through hers. “This weekend. Of course, there’s not much to move. I had to buy furniture. It’s a bit sparse, but we’ll make it a home. Would you like to see it?”
“Now?”
Ben winced. “Sorry. I keep forgetting you’re just getting back.”
At this moment she felt rather refreshed. “I’d love to see it.” She hopped to her feet. “Let me grab my purse and keys.” She slung the purse over her shoulder. “Hey, Shawna. I’m going out with Ben for a minute. I’ll be right back.”
Shawna emerged from her bedroom. “Okay.”
“Ben and the kids are moving into a new house, and he’s going to show it to me.”
Shawna’s eyes lit up. “That’s great news.”
Ben nodded. “Yes, it’s time for us to be away from the grandparents before they completely spoil my children.” He offered his arm and looked at Jenna. “Shall we?”
Jenna wrapped her hand through his elbow and nodded to Shawna. Ben escorted her to the passenger seat of his sport utility vehicle and jogged around to the driver’s side. As he backed out and started down the road, he glanced at Jenna. “I would really appreciate some advice on making this place more homey. It seems a little cold. But I am just a guy who doesn’t really know much about that kind of thing.”
Jenna’s chest warmed that he would want her input. In moments, Ben pulled into a driveway. The house really was close, not more than a couple of blocks away. As she exited the car, she studied the house. The outside sported a beautiful mixture of brick and siding.
Ben led the way to the front door, unlocked it, and motioned Jenna in ahead of him. She paused in the foyer, admiring the high ceiling and large windows. The foyer immediately led into a living area with exposed wooden beams crossing the high ceiling.
“Wow, Ben, this is gorgeous.”
“Come on in.” He stopped in the middle of the large living area. “Now see, this is what I’m talking about. This room is nice, but it seems lacking.”
Jenna strolled into the room, scanning its furnishings. “The sectional seating really works in here. You just need some pictures and some favorite knick-knacks.”
Ben pursed his lips then chuckled. “Again, I need help with that stuff.”
Jenna laughed.
“Let me show you the rest.”
The living area opened up to include the kitchen and dining areas. Also, downstairs held one bedroom and a laundry room. Upstairs contained two loft-type bedrooms.
“The only thing I wasn’t sure about was having the kids upstairs and me downstairs. But, I suppose as they get older, they might prefer that.”
They returned to the living area.
“There’s a nice big deck in back for grilling and a nice size yard.”
“Seems perfect for you all.”
Ben stepped near and gazed into her eyes. “Would I be forward if I asked you to come celebrate our moving in on Saturday evening?”
“Uh. I would love to. I should be able to. I just have to make sure I’m ready for the Fall Festival next weekend.”
“Oh yeah. Do you need any help?”
Jenna sighed. “I can always use help.”
“Well, okay then. You come for dinner, and we’ll discuss what’s left to do.”
“Sounds good.”
CHAPTER ELEVEN
Ben checked the chicken in the oven. The doorbell sounded and Avery and Dakota both bolted toward the door.
“Hey, wait up.” Ben jogged behind them.
Dakota swung the door open as Ben slid around the corner. Jenna flashed a smile, distracting him momentarily. He cleared
his throat, but Avery drowned him out.
“We got a new house.” Avery grabbed Jenna’s hand and pulled her inside. “Do you like it?”
Jenna bent to look into Avery’s eyes. “I do like it. Do you like it?”
“Yep. I got a new big girl room and bed.”
“Really? How about you, Dakota? What do you think?” Jenna looked his way.
Dakota nodded. “I like it, too. Daddy says maybe we can build a treehouse in the backyard. Won’t that be fun?”
“Yes. I love treehouses.” Jenna glanced at Ben.
The delight in her eyes sped his pulse up to double-time. He admired the jeans and sweater hugging her slender body. Ben shook his head and averted his eyes. The tangy aroma of burning barbecue reminded him of the chicken still in the oven. “Oh, man!” He whirled around and sprinted to the kitchen, opening the oven door. Smoke swirled out. He snatched an oven mitt and pulled the pan out, setting it on the stove top.
He fanned the smoke from the oven and slid over to open the sliding glass door. A shrill buzz screamed from the fire alarm above the counter. He raced back under the alarm and fanned the smoke away from it. The annoying screech continued. Ben climbed atop a stool and yanked the battery out. He sank down onto the stool, catching his breath.
Avery stood at his knee, hands clasped over her ears. “Daddy, that was really loud.”
Jenna stepped up behind Avery. “Are you okay? You didn’t burn yourself, did you?”
Ben sighed. “Nope. I wasn’t trying to go for blackened chicken.”
Jenna pressed her lips together, visibly suppressing a grin.
“Daddy’s not really gotten the hang of cooking yet.” Dakota spoke matter-of-factly.
Ben hit the oven mitt on his leg and burst out laughing, Jenna joining him. He tousled Dakota’s hair. “You are right about that, buddy.” He jumped to his feet and reached for the kitchen land line. “I know what kind of pizza these guys like. What about you, Miss Jenna?”
“Anything except anchovies I’m good with.”
“Anshowies? What’s that?” Avery wrinkled her little nose.
Ben chuckled. “Anchovies are little fish.”
