by Smith, Wendy
Sonya looks down her nose at him. “I wanted to find her the right man.”
“Stop being such a snob. Remember what it was like for us? We had nothing when Hayley was born, but we had each other.”
“I just worry.”
It makes me think of Mum and how she always thought she was doing what was best for us. It still pains me to think of what she put Adam and Lily through for no apparent reason.
“Drew’s a good man. A doctor. And the best part of it all is that he loves our daughter. All I care about is that he’ll cherish Hayley and take care of her. They’ll take care of each other.”
Sonya’s shoulders slump as if she’s been defeated.
“I can see that,” she says quietly.
“So, what’s the problem?”
“Mum, Drew’s everything I ever wanted. And his family is awesome. He might be in Hamilton, but his brothers have been there for me when I needed them. You need to give him a chance.”
She nods, giving us a small smile. “Well, if you’re getting married, I guess we have a wedding to plan.”
I smile as Hayley wraps her arms around my waist.
“I’m sorry, Drew. I never had a problem with you, I just know what it was like when David and I first got married. We had no money, and it was such a struggle.” Her tone suggests her hurt pride, and I can’t hold this against her. She never meant Hayley any harm.
Nodding, I hold Hayley tighter. “I understand. Hayley will be well provided for. Though, she’s done a good job of taking care of herself all this time.”
Sonya lets out a sigh. “She’s done so much with her life. I’m so proud of that.”
Tears well in Hayley’s eyes. This is everything she ever needed to hear. She holds her hand out to show her mother the ring we just bought.
Sonya’s mouth drops. “That’s beautiful, Hayley. How much did that …?” She meets my eyes. “Sorry, old habits.”
“Lots.” Hayley lets out an audible breath. “Will you help me plan my wedding, Mum?”
“Do bears shit in the woods?”
That’s the last thing I expect to hear out of Sonya’s mouth, and I’m the first to laugh.
Sonya steps up and plants a kiss on my cheek. “Welcome to the family, Drew.”
27
Hayley
Leaving is surprisingly difficult.
I look around my cottage. It’s amazing how big it looks with nothing in it. Drew wanted me to leave the movers to do their work, but I want to make sure the house is in good order when I leave.
I’ll miss this place. When I needed time alone and space, it was everything I needed.
Adam appears in the door. The whole family’s here to say goodbye to me. Not Drew’s mother—apparently, she’s under the weather today—but Drew’s father came. There are walls up in this family, distinct lines that aren’t being crossed, but I’ll be proud and happy to be a part of it. Drew’s brothers already act as if they’re my brothers.
“Ready?” he asks.
“I think so.”
He smiles. “Just think of what’s waiting for you at the other end. I’m happy for you two, and I’m looking forward to this wedding.”
I grin. Mum had a lot of ideas, but I was firm that I wanted the wedding to be held in Copper Creek. Drew’s mum has enough to deal with having to travel for chemo, and besides, this is my home. In six months’ time, I’ll become Mrs Drew Campbell, surrounded by both families, and I can’t wait. “I’m excited about the wedding, true. As much as I’m looking forward to moving in with Drew, saying goodbye isn’t easy.”
“It’s not supposed to be.”
As I grab my bag and walk toward the door, Adam hugs me. “Just promise me you two won’t get so lost in each other you forget us in the meantime.”
I laugh. “We’ll try.”
“Good on you, Hayley.”
I take a deep breath, and step out to the front doorstep. Margaret stands just off to the side, and after Adam follows me out, I pull the door shut behind me and lock it.
I hand her the keys. She wraps her arms around me, and I grin.
“I’ll miss you,” she says. “You’d better come and visit me.”
“Of course I will.”
She nods toward the house. “I’ll drop the keys off on Monday, and that’s that.”
Tears well as I nod in return. She helped me find my little house, and it became my refuge.
“I’m so proud of you,” she says. “You went through so much, and you came out the other side so much stronger.”
“Thank you.”
“Be happy,” she whispers. “Send me an invite to the wedding.”
“You bet.”
Lily embraces me next, and tears fall as I hug her back. It’s because Lily and Adam expanded their family that I met the man who means more to me than anyone else in the world. I feel like I owe them everything.
“No doubt we’ll talk soon,” Lily says.
I nod. “I’ll keep in touch. How else are you going to be my maid of honour?”
Her eyes widen. “Really?”
“We want to involve everyone. And I can’t think of anyone I’d rather ask.”
She smiles. “I’d love to. When Adam and I finally tie the knot, I want you involved, too.”
“Not in a hurry?”
“We have a few things we want to work through first that are gonna cost us a bit of money. Then we’ll get the wedding we always wanted.”
I grasp her hands. “Anything I can do to help, let me know.”
“We’ll be sisters-in-law. You’ll be stuck with me.”
“I’m happy to be stuck with you.”
Of course, I can’t get past Owen and Corey, who each give me a farewell hug, and I’m battling tears as I step into my car.
Four years ago, when I arrived in Copper Creek, I never knew how much I’d grow to love this place. It’ll always hold a special place in my heart.
With a final wave, I drive, leaving behind the town that gave me so much, going toward the city where my future lies. A future I never dared to dream of.
I don’t have a job yet, but I’ll take my time and find something perfect, something that fits into the life I’ll lead with Drew.
That’s what’s important.
After what feels like the longest drive of my life, I pull into the driveway. The moving truck should have been, and most of my clothes are packed away, so I grab my suitcase from the back seat. It’s enough to keep me going for a couple of days.
Drew’s standing at the door when I make my way up the path, his eyes full of love and a smile on his face. Knowing I’m here for good this time brings tears to my eyes all over again.
“Hey,” he says softly.
“Hey, yourself.”
He takes my suitcase from my hand and leans over to give me a kiss.
“Get inside and put your feet up. You must be tired after your drive.”
I yawn. “I am. Could do with a sleep.”
“Then go get one. Doctor’s Orders.”
Pressing my hand to his chest, I look up at him with all the love in the world.
I’m home.
Baker’s Dozen
1
Ginny
“Do you, Drew Jason Campbell, take Hayley Louise McCarthy to be your wife?”
Drew grins. “Oh yes, I do.”
I chuckle, along with the rest of the congregation. Even though I’ve never met them before, I can feel there’s so much love in this ceremony. It’s probably the biggest wedding Copper Creek’s ever seen.
“Do you, Hayley Louise McCarthy, take Drew Jason Campbell to be your husband?”
“I do.”
Wiping my eyes, I look around. Max waves from his post on the groom’s side. He’s standing with his father, and the two of them have the biggest grins on their faces. It’s a beautiful ceremony. I give him a small wave in return.
Next to them are the other three Campbell brothers: Owen, Corey, and James. Max has told
me all about them at school, and I think I know far more of that family than I should.
I look a little too long, and Owen’s eyes meet mine. Blushing, I look away. I can’t help it. I’ve heard all about the reputation of the town baker, and I’m not interested in just a hookup, but he’s still heartbreakingly hot.
I’ve been so pre-occupied looking around, watching the family I know so much about, I miss the rings being exchanged, but I don’t miss the celebrant holding out her hands and smiling. “Go on, Drew, kiss the bride. We know you’ve been waiting.”
Drew pulls Hayley into his arms, and my grin grows bigger watching him kiss her. Love is a beautiful thing, and when it radiates from two people like it does from them, it’s something special.
When he leads her out and the wedding party follow, it’s like Owen Campbell’s noticed me for the first time, and maybe he has as he fixes his gaze on me while trailing along behind his brothers.
The bakery isn’t a place I visit. Health issues keep me on a gluten free diet. It eases the symptoms. Doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy the view of the baker. Maybe I could eat a little.
I stand, and follow the rest of the congregation to the massive marquee that’s been set up near the trees. The cove is a beautiful place for a wedding, and it’s such a lovely sunny day with no wind. The conditions couldn’t be better.
There are a lot of out-of-towners at this wedding, and the businesses in town have geared up for a big weekend. From what I’ve heard, Hayley’s dad is some bigshot, and a chunk of Auckland has relocated to Copper Creek for the wedding.
When I find the little card with my name on it, I sit at the table. The bridal party are having photos down near the water, and I can see them posing from a distance. Laughter floats through the air from them, and it makes me smile.
The water glitters in the sunlight, and I take a deep breath. I come from a small town, but there’s something special about this place.
I pick a glass of sparkling wine from a tray and take a look around. The table I’m at is all names I don’t recognise, but I’m not far from the bridal table which makes me feel incredibly honoured.
Big social situations make me nervous. I might be a teacher and surrounded by kids all day, but they’re easy to deal with compared to a lot of adults.
The chatter increases as the bridal party makes it into the marquee, and I smile as I catch sight of Max.
“Ginny, I’m so glad you could make it.” Lily greets me as she approaches, the bride beside her. “I’m not sure if you two know each other. Ginny, this is Hayley. Hayley, this is Ginny. She used to be Max’s teacher.”
Hayley’s eyes widen. “The famous Ginny who Max wanted desperately on the guest list?”
I laugh. “I guess so.”
“We told him he could invite one person thinking he’d invite a school friend, but you were the only one he wanted. It’s great to meet you.”
“You too. It’s been such a beautiful wedding.”
She grins.
“There she is.” Drew draws up beside her, wrapping his arm around her waist. He gives Hayley a lingering kiss that makes me blush.
“Babe, this is Ginny. Max’s teacher.”
He raises his eyebrows. “The Ginny?”
Lily laughs. “Stop it you two. You’ll give Ginny a complex.”
“Oi. You lot. Time to get seated.” Owen walks over and ushers Drew, Hayley, and Lily back to the main table. He shoots me a grin over his shoulder, and I swear I melt into a puddle.
“Miss Robinson.” Max comes running over, and I can’t help but smile at his infectious enthusiasm.
“Hey, Max. You did well today.”
“Did you know there’s chocolate cake?”
I laugh and shake my head. “I didn’t, but I guess I do now.”
“Max.” Adam beckons his son.
“See ya.” Max runs to him, and I watch as he’s led to his seat, a huge grin on my face. He waves at me again, and I can’t help waving back. Of all the kids I’ve taught, it’s Max who makes me proudest.
Owen Campbell’s looking at me again. I blush as I meet his gaze, but then it could be someone behind me he’s smiling at. Among the congregation are some pretty gorgeous girls. I don’t recognise any of them as being locals, but then again, I do tend to keep to myself.
Today I made an exception for an exceptional boy.
* * *
When the meal’s nearly over but the wine’s still flowing, Drew taps the side of his glass with a spoon. A hush falls over the tent, and I turn my chair to get a better view of the bridal table.
Drew smiles. “We’re going to make this quick as I’m sure everyone wants to get back to the food and drink. I just want to thank my brothers for standing with me today, and Maxxy. You’re the bomb.”
I grin, and Max cheers.
“A special thanks to Owen for the wedding cake. Hayley knew exactly what she wanted, and you did such an amazing job.”
The cake’s wheeled in, and it’s gorgeous. Intricate patterns in the icing make it way too pretty to eat, but given that it’s chocolate, I might break my own rule and have a tiny piece.
“I want to thank Hayley’s parents for this amazing day. I’m so proud and happy to be part of your family. And last, but most important of all …” He pauses, and looks down at his bride. “Meeting you is the best thing that’s ever happened to me. My heart wasn’t whole until now. I’m the luckiest man on the planet to be married to you, Hayley, and I promise to love you each and every day for the rest of our lives.”
I pick up a paper napkin from the table and wipe my eyes.
“Now, get back to eating and drinking, and we’ll start the music shortly.”
At one end of the marquee is a temporary dance floor, and when the food’s been eaten, we all make our way over to see the bride and groom’s first dance.
The band plays something sweet and slow as Drew and Hayley lose themselves in each other. I’m a little envious of their locked gaze. Surely nothing and no one can break that, and although I don’t really know them, I hope it continues the rest of their lives.
Slowly, the floor fills with other couples, and I find a seat nearby and sip my champagne.
I can’t complain about being lonely when it’s my choice, but seeing so much love in the room leaves my heart aching a little. Though, that could be the wine.
The music speeds up, and I close my eyes.
“Dance?”
I open them to see Drew standing over me, his hand extended.
“Me?”
He laughs. “Hayley’s taking a break, and she spotted you here by yourself. Thought you might fancy a spin around the dance floor.”
I grin. “Why not?”
Taking his hand to stand, I follow him to the centre of the dance floor. Adam and Lily are there, along with Drew’s oldest brother. He’s really tall and a bit scary, but he has a big grin and a gorgeous blonde hanging off his every word.
“Do you know everybody?” Drew asks.
“I know Lily and Adam.”
He nods. “This is Corey, and …” Leaning over, he places his hand to cup his mouth. “I have no idea what her name is. I think he just picked her up.”
I laugh.
“Having fun?” Lily takes my hand, and I nod.
We dance for a while before I excuse myself to get some more wine. One more is my limit. Any after that I’ll be walking home.
Hayley joins her husband again, and leads him to the cake. Another tap on a wine glass quietens everyone down.
“I just wanted to say thank you again to everyone for coming, and to Owen for this magnificent thing that Hayley doesn’t want to cut,” Drew says.
Laughter fills the large tent.
“Make sure you get some.” I look up to see Owen walk past as he shoots me a wink. I nod, and laugh as he takes the knife from Drew’s hand. “I’ll cut the cake with you if Hayley doesn’t want to.”
Hayley laughs, slapping him on the arm.
He holds the knife up as if in surrender. “Okay. You do it. But I want a big piece.”
After they make their slice and feed each other cake, Owen takes over and slices pieces from it, giving small plates to Max to deliver.
Max heads straight for me. “Owen said this piece is for you.”
I nod. “Thank you, Max.”
He beams before heading to the next person, and I get a better look at the icing. Tiny swirls form hearts all over it. It’s so delicate and light, but exquisitely detailed. It’s a work of art.
I take a tiny bite. The chocolate mud cake melts in my mouth, and I can’t help but groan at the taste and sensation. This is a cake made with a lot of love and care. I eat it slowly, savouring each bite. I can’t remember the last time I ate cake. It’s not part of my strict diet, and I rarely break it. This is worth it.
The music starts back up, and I look over toward the cake. Owen’s not standing beside it anymore, and all I’m left with is the hope I can tell him what an amazing job he’s done.
Then I spot him.
My heart melts at the sight of Max and Owen in the middle of the dance floor. Max is full of life and laughter, and his uncle seems to have just as much energy.
Max’s eyes light up when our gazes meet, and he makes a beeline for my table.
“Come and dance with us, Miss Robinson.”
I grin. “I don’t know, Max. Looks like you two are having a lot of fun already.”
Owen comes up behind him. “What are you doing, Max? Abandoning me in the middle of a dance?” He shoots me a smile. “Hi.”
“Hi. Max is just trying to convince me to dance with you guys.”
“You totally should. Owen Campbell.” He holds his hand out for me to shake.
“Ginny Robinson.” I take hold of his hand, and he pulls me to my feet.
“Now you’re standing, that’s halfway to the dance floor.”
Max giggles. “Come on.”
“Okay.” My hand is still in Owen’s as he leads me back to the empty spot, and he reaches for Max’s with the other.
Max resists taking Owen’s hand, twisting and turning. His excitement is contagious, and I find myself sneaking peeks at Owen who’s smiling just as much as Max is.
