Love in a Fix

by Leah Atwood

  She gave him a smile and dropped her phone on the counter, reminding herself that her new in-laws would call if anything was wrong. “Good morning.”

  “Morning.” His greeting was drawn out, his voice still sleepy.

  She wouldn’t have guessed he wasn’t a morning person, but found the fact endearing. Especially when he stood there like a lost puppy with tousled hair, wearing a T-shirt and sweats. He padded toward the counter and in robotic motions, started a pot of coffee.

  While the coffee brewed, Lyndsey watched him, observed him in his morning routine. It was part of what she loved about living with someone. In all the ugly, messy arguments that would surely come as they adjusted to life together, there was beauty in finding out the intimate details that made someone tick.

  A few months ago, she’d read a quote, something to the tune of not measuring life by the breaths taken, but the moments that take your breath away. She hadn’t agreed then, and she didn’t agree now. Life was mostly lived in those small moments that filled the gaps between breathtaking ones. It was the sum of those times—the bonds formed, trust earned, lessons learned—that made the big moments worthy of breathlessness.

  What was a vacation without the hard work to earn it? Reaching the summit of a mountain peak and ignoring the beauty of the climb? What was a marriage, without all the relationship building leading to it?

  Even with Shep and their swift courtship, they’d been building a relationship of sorts, she just hadn’t realized it until now. Reflecting on the last two years, there were countless small moments between them, all of which led to this moment, where they’d work together for the next breathless moment in their lives. She didn’t know what it would be, but the excitement of getting there was half the fun.

  “How’d you sleep?” She stood from the stool and carried her cup to the sink.

  “Good.” His eyes never left the coffee pot, and he held a cup with a death grip.

  She giggled.

  The noise drew him from his trance-like state and a confused expression took over. “What’s so funny?”

  “You.” More laugher erupted.

  “Me?” He scrunched his face, peered at his reflection in the stainless steel toaster. Ran a hand through his hair. “I guess I am a mess.”

  “Just a little.” She bit her lip, and her cheeks hurt from trying to stop the chuckles.

  “Mornings and I don’t get along.” He brushed a hand over his wrinkled shirt, frowning. “I’m sorry. Not a very romantic start to our marriage.”

  Sobering up, she circled his wrist with her fingers and laid her hand on his. “Maybe not, but it’s real, and we didn’t enter this for romance.”

  A cloud of darkness filtered his eyes for a split-second. “Right.” He removed his hand and dusted her forehead with a quick kiss before pouring a cup of coffee. “Happy Thanksgiving.”

  “You too.” She grabbed a glass from the cabinet and held it up to the filtered water dispenser on the fridge door. “Dinner at your parents’ is at noon, correct?”

  “Yes, but we should get there around eleven.” His eyes smiled when he drank his first sip of coffee. “If you want to go earlier to see Josh, that’s fine, too.”

  Her heart itched to see her son, but she didn’t want to slight Shep. “We can spend the morning here. Eleven is early enough.”

  Shep laughed. “Your face is an open book.”

  Shrugging her shoulders, she watched his eyes dance as caffeine jolted him from the remainder of sleepiness. “He’s been separated from me more than usual lately.”

  “Give me an hour and we’ll head over.” The remainder of his coffee disappeared in one gulp. “I guarantee Mom’s already been awake for hours.”

  “Thank you.”

  He winked. “Anything to please my wife.”

  ***

  “Will Risa and Jack be there?” Lyndsey stared out the window, wondering which house belonged to Shep’s parents.

  “No, they’re spending Thanksgiving with her parents this year.” He steered the truck into the driveway of a tan and white split-level. “Just the three of us, Mom, and Dad.”

  Her heart grew a notch when he included Josh in us. “Small is good, gives me a chance to ease into introductions and questions.”

  “Dad is the worst of it, trust me, and I fended him off before he could embarrass you yesterday.” Shep grinned. “Jack and Risa are much more tactful. You’ll like Risa.”

  Curiosity got the better of her. “What did your dad do?”

  Blanching, Shep switched off the ignition. “You don’t want to know.”

  “Except now you have me wondering.”

  “I shouldn’t have said anything.” Shep rubbed his jaw.

  “That bad?”

  “No, but keep in mind, my father has a good heart, but he doesn’t always understand that some things shouldn’t be said.”

  Anxiety set in that she’d already offended her new father-in-law, and she rubbed her fingers together. “Tell me, please.”

  A loud sigh echoed in the truck cab. “He questioned our motives for marriage.”

  Heat covered every inch of her face once Shep elaborated. Her eyes widened, and a hand flew to her mouth as a thought struck her. “That’s what everyone will think, including people at church.”

  “No they won’t.” Shep unbuckled and leaned toward her, placing a comforting hand on hers. “I set Pops straight then told him we didn’t want to waste time apart that we could be spending together. Considering our pasts, it’s completely plausible.”

  “I guess.” Her voice wavered, giving away her uncertainty.

  “We know the truth, no matter that anyone thinks. If anyone dares to say anything, I’ll set them straight.”

  A knot formed in her stomach and travelled upward, gaining momentum until it exploded in a frustrated groan. “How can I face your parents, knowing what they think?”

  “They don’t anymore.” His mouth tightened, and he pinched his lips for a second before speaking again. “I’m really sorry I said anything.”

  Why hadn’t they seen it coming? They’d even discussed gossip. They should have waited, dated a few months—weeks at minimum. Do not worry about tomorrow. Inhaling a calming breath, she took the recalled words to heart. She’d prayed about a marriage to Shep, and God had given her an answer. That was all that mattered, not imaginary gossip that may or may not happen.

  How many times had she been up and down today? This week. This year. She suspected the emotional roller coaster wasn’t over yet, but she looked down at Shep’s hand covering hers and knew he wouldn’t leave her side.

  “And I’m sorry for overreacting.” Her self-deprecating laugh sounded hollow.

  “It’s all a matter of adjusting,” he responded in his usual even manner.

  Did anything set him off? She wished she possessed his nerves of steel. “Do I look okay? I should have made a dish to contribute.”

  “Mom wouldn’t hear of it. Thanksgiving is her thing, and cooking the dinner is her way of showing love.” His eyes travelled over her in the seat, from her head to brown sweater with subtle gold threads woven into the fabric, to her fitted jeans and brown boots with a two inch heel, and he gave an intoxicating, appreciative grin. “You look great.”

  The tingly sensations that came every time he complimented her raised goose bumps on her arms. “If I hadn’t seen you this morning, I might think you were too perfect.”

  Shep’s smile twisted. “Far from it, but if my new bride wants to think so, who am I to argue?”

  “Hmm. Remember I said ‘if I hadn’t seen you this morning.’” She nudged him and winked. “Can’t have my new husband getting a big head on the second day of marriage.”

  The playful banter erased the edge on which she’d teetered. She and Shep still had a lot to work out before they entered a comfortable stage of marriage, but they would enjoy the time getting there.

  Letting go of her, Shep sat upright then opened the door. He hopped out, c
ircled around and let her out. Their hands found each other, winding, and they walked to the house, the picture of happily married newlyweds.

  There wasn’t a doorbell that Lyndsey saw. Shep gave the door three sharp raps then exchanged a smile with her while they waited.

  His mom opened the door and Josh came running, slipped under her arm and threw his arms around Lyndsey. “Mommy!”

  She released Shep to embrace Josh. “I missed you, buddy. Did you have fun?”

  “Whole lots! Grammy, that’s what my new grandmother said to call her, let me help her make the pies and stuffing.” His hands flew as he talked, forcing a break in the hug.

  “I’ll have to try them. I bet they’re the most delicious foods on the table.” The distinct smell of cinnamon and cloves stood above the savory scents. Her stomach rumbled.

  “Come in out of the cold.” Shep’s mom stepped back, allowing them entry.

  “Thank you, Mrs. Patterson. Happy Thanksgiving.” Lyndsey took a step inside.

  Mrs. Patterson caught her in an embrace as she walked through the door. “You too, dear, and please, call me Mom, or Anne if you prefer. Anything but Mrs. Patterson.”

  “Alright, Mom.” She tested out the title and caught Shep’s approving smile from a sideways glance.

  Years, decades even, had passed since she’d called someone “Mom.” She called Mark’s mother a more formal “Mom Allen,” and even that was too casual for their strained relationship. However, the connection with Shep’s mother already felt different. Anne welcomed her with open arms, whereas Portia had always kept a distance. After yesterday’s conversation, maybe that would change, but it was a shame it had to happen after Mark’s death and once she’d remarried.

  Anne addressed her son. “Mind if I steal your wife away for a few minutes.”

  “It’s up to her.” His shoulder brushed against Lyndsey’s.

  “It’s fine.” Meanwhile, her stomach did somersaults. She’d hoped to have Shep beside her until she felt comfortable on her own.

  “We’ll be in the kitchen if anyone needs us.” Anne looped an arm through hers.

  “Is Pops in the family room?”

  “Yes. Maybe you can help him. The cable went out for whatever reason this morning and he can’t get the network channels working to watch the parade.” Anne rolled her eyes, but a tender smile never left her face.

  “I’ll see what I can do.”

  Josh tugged on her hand. “Can I go with Daddy?”

  His request threw her for a loop and she sucked in a jagged breath. She was glad Josh took to Shep—that was wonderful, but hearing Josh call him “Daddy” sent bittersweet pangs through her. Look forward. Be thankful for the here and now. “I am.”

  “What’s that?” Shep asked.

  She didn’t realize she’d spoken aloud, and she hurried to cover her slip. “Josh can go with you if he wants.”

  Anne pulled her into the kitchen, where every burner of the stove had a pot atop it and two slow cookers were plugged in to an outlet above the counter. The sweet aromas she’d noticed several minutes ago were hard to distinguish among the myriads of others scents centrally located in one room, but the odd combinations produced a pleasant, inviting atmosphere.

  “No one but me is typically allowed in the kitchen on Thanksgiving, but I’d hoped to spend some time with you.” Anne flashed a grin.

  “I’m honored.” She took an apron that Anne handed her. “What can I do?”

  “Are you good at peeling potatoes?” After grabbing a large metal spoon from the counter, Anne stirred a pot on the stove. “Everything else is cooking or already prepared.”

  “Show me the way,” Lyndsey answered, tying the apron behind her back.

  Bending down, Anne pulled a five-pound bag of russet potatoes from a drawer. “We’ll do all these. There’s a paring knife in the drawer behind you. I had one of those fancy palm peelers, but wouldn’t you know it, I broke it last week.”

  Lyndsey set up a station on the far side of the counter where she found an open spot. She chose a potato, peeled it, then dropped it into a pot filled with water.

  An egg timer buzzed, and Anne pulled two pies from the oven. She placed them on trivets. “When Shep told me he planned to remarry, I was surprised, especially when he told us the marriage would be so soon.”

  Embarrassed by what Shep had told her earlier, Lyndsey ducked her head to hide her flushed face. “I know what your first thought was. Mr. Patterson asked Shep about it yesterday.”

  Anne clucked her tongue. “Forgive my husband, please. Most days, he doesn’t use the good sense God gave him.” Coming to her, Anne gave a sympathetic look. “The thought briefly crossed my mind, but was dismissed as quickly as it came.” She paused and put her hands on Lyndsey’s shoulders for a second. “When I saw the two of you together yesterday, there was no doubt in my mind you married each other for love.”

  Lyndsey stood with her back stiff, unsure what to say.

  It didn’t matter, since Anne continued. “Seeing Shep so happy healed this mom’s heart. Shep’s not meant to be alone—he has too much love to offer. After Miranda died, I naturally worried about him.”

  “Any mother would.” She blinked away tears, remembering her own grief.

  “We met at Miranda’s funeral. Do you remember?” Anne handed her another potato, seeming to sense her need to keep her hands busy.

  “I do. I was pregnant with Josh and you asked if I knew the gender.” The memory was vivid in her mind though she hadn’t recalled it in ages.

  “You and Mark were a handsome couple. I remember praying for both of you that night when I got home and asking God to give you a healthy baby.” Anne took a deep breath. “You’re allowed to remember Mark. He was a part of your life and gave you Josh. That can’t be forgotten.”

  “I’m dedicated to this marriage.”

  “I know, dear, and I wasn’t trying to say you weren’t. It’s clear you love my son.” The warmth of her hand when she patted Lyndsey’s shoulder reached her heart. “But I saw the grief in your eyes when Josh called Shep ‘Daddy’ and I wanted you to know that you don’t have to feel guilty for that.”

  “Was it obvious?” She dropped the knife, worried Shep would see through her. He’d grinned from ear to ear when Josh called him “Daddy” and she’d feel horrible if her own issues took away that delight.

  “Only to another woman.”

  “Shep adores Josh.” Her lips parted in a smile. “I’m pretty sure the feeling’s mutual. Josh follows him everywhere.”

  “My son always wanted children. You’ve given him a tremendous gift.”

  If you only knew how he rescued me. “He’s a natural father. I’m grateful he was willing to step into that role and Josh won’t grow up without a dad.”

  She resumed peeling the potatoes, hoping for a change in conversation. Tumultuous emotions struck her at every turn, and talk of Mark and Shep didn’t help.

  Anne returned to the stove. “Do you work outside the home?”

  “I work part time as an administrative assistant, but took off this week for the wedding and the move.” The apron strings came undone and she re-tied them. “I also worked part time at the grocery, but just decided to quit so I’d have more time at home.”

  “Do you enjoy your job?”

  “Most of the time, but they’ve cut hours and still expect us to maintain the same workload. It can be stressful, but I enjoy the mental challenge.”

  “Before the boys were born, I was a secretary. I stayed on for a few years once I had children, but quit. However, I didn’t like my job and that makes a big difference, don’t you think?” Anne waited until Lyndsey nodded in agreement before going to the china hutch in the adjoining room. She withdrew five place settings and numerous serving bowls.

  Lyndsey went and helped her to carry them to the kitchen. “What else can I do?”

  “Everything is settled for now, until closer to eating time.” She threw a subtle wink. “I bet som
eone in the other room misses you, and I don’t mean Josh.”

  An unstoppable smile spread on Lyndsey’s mouth. Despite all of her swirling thoughts and emotions, one stood above all else—she wanted to spend time with her husband.

  Chapter Ten

  “That wasn’t so bad was it?” Lyndsey strolled along the sidewalk near Shep’s home after church on Sunday.

  Josh, abounding with energy, skipped ahead of them. The frigid day wouldn’t allow for a long walk, but enough for Josh to burn off the liveliness he’d stored while sitting in church.

  “Much better than I’d expected.” Walking closely beside her, he held her gloved hand. “I didn’t hear any unnecessary remarks, did you?”

  She shook her head. “All the congratulations I received were heartfelt.”

  “Same here.”

  “Granted, Pastor Dean announced it last week not realizing we weren’t there, so everyone had a week to get their gossip out.” Lyndsey quirked a corner of her mouth.

  “For whatever reason, I’m glad you weren’t subjected to any nasty rumors or comments.” He didn’t care for himself, but Lyndsey would have been more affected by them.

  They walked another quarter of a mile before turning around and going home. Shep glanced at Lyndsey, drawn to her red cheeks and nose, which were colored by the cold. Her lips gave new meaning to pretty in pink. She needs a kiss to warm her. He unlocked the door and, once Josh ran into the house, spun Lyndsey in his arms. Unable to resist, he dropped a kiss on her cold lips until he felt them warm.

  When they broke away. Lyndsey smiled. The color on her cheeks darkened, and a giddiness crept into her voice. “What was that for?”

  “Just because.” Emboldened by Lyndsey’s positive reaction, he grinned. “Can’t a man surprise his wife with a kiss?”

  Lyndsey responded by throwing him a wink then dashing into the house.

  Instead of joining her, he stayed outside for another minute, His male ego basked in satisfaction. He’d learned that when Lyndsey didn’t know what to say, she found a way to escape.

  Which meant his kiss had left her speechless in a good way.