by JoAnn Durgin
“Why do you have a Veggie Tales DVD? I didn’t realize talking and singing vegetables ranked high on the list for a bachelor’s television viewing.”
His grin emerged. “Sometimes the singles group from my church comes to the house. We have some parents in the group and that DVD has come in handy on more than one occasion. But,” he said, scooting closer, “is this something you’re dying to discuss in detail right now?”
“No. Not really. No.” Why did she have to ramble like an idiot when he got close?
“Do you want me to start a fire?”
Well, that’s a loaded question. “At this time of year?” She smiled as she caught his expression.
“I see what you mean,” he said. “I just thought it would be romantic.”
“Well, it would be romantic, but first, we have enough fire between us as it is, and second, it would take too much time.” Stealing a glance at him, she giggled. Nothing like a giggle and blunt honesty to charm this man. And there it is, the lazy, sexy grin.
“That giggle of yours gets me every time,” he whispered, pulling her chin toward him.
“Josh,” she said, pulling back. “Isn’t it a bit disrespectful, if we, you know, kiss after you just. . .” Maybe it’s his way of burying the pain.
He sat back against the sofa cushions with a deep sigh. “This isn’t a line, Winnie, but I know my dad would be all for this relationship between us. Trust me, he’d heartily approve. I’m sad, yes, and I hate it that he was yanked out of our lives without any warning. I hurt for Mom, but she’s strong and knows he’s in a much better place. I’m just thankful he didn’t suffer. Dad would have hated that more than anything.” He stroked her hair. “The Lord had his reasons for taking Dad when he did. For one thing, there were a lot of people at his service who might have needed to hear the message from the pastor.”
She snuggled into the curve of his arm. “I was so proud of you. Your eulogy was wonderful, Josh. Short, hard-hitting but very powerful.”
He rubbed one hand over his jaw. “Thanks, but if you say I sounded like a politician, I might have to kiss you to shut you up.”
“Josh?” she said, sitting up straighter.
“Yes?” That irresistible grin surfaced again. “I don’t have much alone time with you. If you want to just talk because you think it’s disrespectful to my dad’s memory to kiss me on the couch, then let’s talk. Tell me more about Chloe’s nursery school. Tell me about your upcoming catering jobs.” Those green eyes searched hers. “Tell me anything but why I shouldn’t kiss you right now.”
Winnie swallowed hard. “I really can’t think of anything.”
Cupping her face with one hand, he leaned close, claiming her lips. Oh, how he claimed them. The respectful suitor, the complete gentleman, he wasn’t inappropriate in any way. Just sweet and gentle yet able to ignite every hormone in her and then some. His dad would be very pleased with the polite man beside her. He’d raised a mighty fine son.
Josh leaned his forehead against hers as they both fought to slow their breathing. “I hope now you understand what I meant about kissing being fun. Just kissing.”
“I have no complaints.”
He smoothed his thumb over the tender skin on her chin. “I’m afraid my beard roughed you up. One look at you and Beck will know exactly what we’ve been doing.” He shrugged. “I just hope she’ll get roughed up by Kevin sometime soon.”
“Josh!” With her fingers, Winnie smoothed some of his hair back into place and reached for her purse. “I’ll dart into the powder room and try to repair any damage. Do you mind getting Chloe?”
“Not at all, sweetheart. My pleasure.” He headed toward the stairs.
Sensing his eyes on her, Winnie noticed he paused on the stairs, watching her. “Everything okay?” Her heart jumped when she glimpsed his expression. He looked happy, content, and completely besotted. No man other than Josh had ever looked at her this way. She could get used to it so easily. That thought would have scared her out of her mind a few months ago, but now it was the opposite.
“Everything’s the way it should be,” he said.
As she headed into the powder room, Winnie heard him bounding up the stairs, two at a time from the sound of it.
Ten minutes later, she glanced at her watch with a slight frown. It was quiet upstairs and it was getting really late. As much as she hated for this day to end, it was time for Josh to take them back to Rebekah’s. Tiptoeing up the stairs, she halted at the threshold of his bedroom and clamped a hand over her mouth. Chloe was fast asleep on the bed with Josh curled around her, his eyes closed. From the steady rhythm of their breathing, both father and daughter were fast asleep.
It was too much. Retreating to the hallway, Winnie slumped down to the top stair, holding onto the rail, giving into the overwhelming emotion as her tears fell. They were cleansing tears, healing tears from all the hurt and pain of the past, making way in her heart for the tenderness she felt for this man. Oh, how I love him, Lord. I always have.
Taking a deep breath and wiping her eyes a few minutes later, she went into the bedroom. She stood at the side of the bed, watching them sleep. Josh never looked more appealing, still curled around Chloe, his chin resting on top of her small blonde, curly head. Shifting in her sleep, Chloe put one hand on his chest and he instinctively tightened his hold on her. As much as she tried to resist Josh and all the reasons why they wouldn’t work—why they couldn’t or shouldn’t work—it came down to this moment. She’d never find a man more devoted to her or Chloe. That he happened to be the only man she’d ever loved, and Chloe’s father, made it all the more wonderful.
Easing onto the bed, Winnie leaned across Chloe and kissed Josh’s cheek, brushing her lips over his.
He startled and opened his eyes, blinking a few times as he focused on her. When another tear escaped, he wiped it away. “Don’t cry, chère. Everything will be okay. I promise.”
“I know,” she whispered. “Don’t mind me. It’s just my heart overflowing.”
“It’s been great having you both here tonight. Sorry I didn’t bring her downstairs, but I love talking with my daughter.” He touched Chloe’s cheek and yawned. “Ten minutes ago, she was a chatterbox, but then she fell asleep on a dime. Does she always do that?”
Winnie smiled. “A lot of times she does. I call it talking herself to sleep, which reminds me, I have some videos and photo albums I haven’t shared with you yet. I found them when I was cleaning the other day.”
He stretched his arms over his head with a light yawn. “Can’t wait. Ready to go back to Beck’s now?”
She shook her head, trailing her fingertips across his forehead and down his cheek. He leaned into it, his eyes searching hers. “Not yet. We are home. We’ll stay a little while longer.”
The look on his face in that moment filled all the remaining empty spaces in her heart. “I’m glad.”
“Me, too.” Oh yes, I’m home.
He kissed her and it was the most tender, gentle caress. Pulling away with a deep sigh of contentment, Josh dug in the pocket of his jeans and pulled out his phone. “Hey, Beck.” He darted a glance at Chloe and lowered his voice. “Winnie and Chloe are going to stay here a while longer. I’ll bring them back later. Don’t wait up.” Turning off the phone, he put it on the nightstand and slid out of the bed, careful not to disturb Chloe. “I’ll be right back.” He returned a minute later, a blanket in his hands. Stopping by the side of the bed, he draped it over his child. “The air’s on and the vent is blowing on her. I don’t want her to get cold, but I’m afraid I’ll wake her up if I move her to turn down the comforter.”
She hadn’t even considered it, more than surprised he had. Thoughtfulness was one of Josh’s best qualities, his sensitivity endearing. In so many ways since they’d reconnected again, he’d shown her how much he cared for her and Chloe, some ways more subtle than others, all wonderful.
His eyes met hers. “Should I go to the guest room? I don’t want to do anythi
ng to make you uncomfortable.”
She shook her head and patted the spot on the other side of Chloe. Still warm, it’s where he belonged. Sinking onto the bed, he switched off the bedside lamp. With the moonlight filtering through the window, Winnie glimpsed his sleepy, contented smile. With Chloe snuggled between them, Josh reached for her. Wrapping his arm around her shoulder, he pulled her into his warmth. His love. The place she needed to be and where she’d always belonged. With her head on his shoulder and Chloe resting her head on his chest, he smiled as his eyes closed.
Her hand rested over his heart and he covered it with his.
Cast all your cares on Me. Closing her eyes, Winnie sent up a silent prayer, thanking the Lord for loving her and harboring her from the uncertainty of the pain of the past. For saving me. Now, He’d blessed her with this strong, loyal and faithful man. For leading me home.
Her heart swelled with tenderness. I love you, Lord.
It had been almost five years, but once again, she was treasured and cherished by a man. A flesh-and-blood man who’d been through the fire and emerged all the stronger for it. Settling further into the curve of Josh’s arm, the space above his heart, a smile creased her lips as she allowed her eyes to close.
“I love you, Josh Grant.”
He squeezed her hand and held on tight. “I love you more, Winnie Doyle.”
Chapter 39
One Week Later
Kevin fidgeted in the chair in the waiting room of the Baton Rouge law firm, running his fingers over the rim of his dark brown, suede Stetson. The artwork and impressive furnishings defined posh and elegance. He still puzzled over why he’d driven into the city when he was supposed to be at the store. Of course, Tommy thought it was great and, based on his good-natured ribbing, knew his motives better than Kevin did. It’s like his truck was on autopilot and brought him to Josh Grant’s office of its own accord.
Spying a spot of dirt on one of his boots, he spit-shined it.
“Mr. Moore?”
He broke out of his musing and rose to his feet. “Yes?”
“Mr. Grant will see you now if you’ll follow me.”
“Thank you.” As he followed the woman down a long hallway, Kevin smoothed his hand over his work shirt. If he’d known he’d end up in such a fancy place, he’d have dressed better. It was pretty obvious he was out of his element as he sensed many eyes following his path down the hallway. She paused beside a door at an office near the end of the hall. Thanking her again, he nodded as he entered the office, feeling somewhat like a kid facing the principal.
“Kevin. Come in.” Josh came around from behind his desk, his hand outstretched. Shaking his hand, he pulled him into a quick, warm hug. That hug went a long way toward easing his anxiety. “This is a welcome surprise. Have a seat.” He waved to the pair of matching chairs facing his desk.
“Sorry I didn’t call first. I hadn’t really planned on coming here when I started out this morning.” He sat in one of the chairs and Josh dropped into the one opposite him.
Josh’s face creased into a broad grin. “Then it must have been a God thing, which means it’s even more important.”
That one stumped him. “How do you mean?”
“Everything has its purpose. You rarely do anything without thinking it through first, am I right?”
Kevin blew out a breath. “Right, and that can be both good and bad. Where Rebekah is concerned, I’m afraid it’s been to my detriment.”
Josh leaned close. “You’ve captured her heart so I wouldn’t say it’s been a major obstacle. She needs a strong anchor, my friend, and you’re it.”
Kevin brows shot upward. “I hope you’re right about that.”
“Trust me on this one. I know Beck better than anyone else. Where you’re concerned, I might just know her better than she knows herself. Tell me what’s on your mind.” He sat back in the chair, waiting.
Gathering his thoughts, Kevin put the Stetson on top of the desk. “My family’s business is expanding into Texas. I’ve known about it for a few months but haven’t been at liberty to discuss it with anyone, not even with Rebekah, even though it killed me. The board of directors tapped me to head up the new Houston operation.” He felt strange talking about it and hoped he didn’t come across as boastful. “I’m leaving in two days to go oversee the project.” His eyes met Josh’s. “I’ll be there indefinitely.”
Josh whistled under his breath. “Congratulations. I’m glad to hear the business is doing so well. That’s a great opportunity. So, you haven’t told Beck yet?”
“No. That’s why I’m here, I guess.” Kevin shifted in the chair. “Things are complicated with her right now.”
Josh didn’t look surprised so she must have told him. These two shared such a strong bond and were so close, it transcended the brother-sister relationship. Maybe it was the twin thing. He’d seen them finish each other’s sentences—intimidating in a way, but it was also amazing. But where Josh seemed centered and focused, Rebekah still seemed unsure of her direction.
“Want some water?” He walked over to a cooler in the corner of his office. Not waiting for his answer, he filled a cup, then a second.
“That’d be good. Thanks.” His throat was dry, but he hadn’t even thought of it.
Josh put the cup in front of him on the desk and took his seat. “You have to understand something. Beck’s always been a proper girl. Adam put the rush on her before she went to Montana, and he finally outstayed his welcome. He confused her. I guess someone like that would turn any girl’s life upside down. Basically, he offered her the world. I’m convinced it was only the accent that kept her hooked so long.” He gave him a wry grin.
Kevin’s heart pumped harder. She finally did it? He cleared his throat. “She told me she was going to break up with him.”
But she never told me that she did.
He drained his cup with one gulp. “I know I’ve gone slow in this relationship. Do you think she’s ready to make a permanent commitment to me? I mean, so soon?”
“She loves you, Kevin. Forgive her. The girl can’t seem to help herself. You’ve taken your sweet time and now it’s her turn to repay the favor. She’s not doing it on purpose, though. ”
Kevin stiffened a bit, not liking the implication. “I meant going slow in terms of. . .” He faltered, lowering his eyes. “In the physical sense as well as anything else.” That didn’t come out right either. “You know what I mean.”
A wry grin creased Josh’s lips. “You’re the most proper guy I know, and I respect and appreciate that. I know Beck does, too. It’s one of your special charms. Let me see if I can explain it.” He drained his cup. “First of all, I’m going to tell you something Beck would have my hide for, but you need to know.”
“What’s that?” he leaned forward, eager for his words.
“She kicked the Brit to the curb before Dad died. You have nothing to worry about as far as he’s concerned.” Josh waved his hand. “Temporary distraction, but he’s out of her life for good. Let’s just say Beck got a taste of her own medicine.”
His mouth gaped at that one. “You mean Adam—”
“Put it this way: if you’re concerned about another Adam coming along to turn her head, you needn’t worry. You’ve won the girl, Kevin.”
Kevin swallowed hard. “Thanks for telling me. I may not look like it, but the inner me is jumping up and down and yelling for joy at the top of his lungs.” He broke into one of the grins Rebekah would call his loopy one. Probably meant he looked like a lovesick fool, but he didn’t care.
“After Dad died, Beck was afraid to tell you, believing it was too soon. She thought she was somehow being disloyal to Dad’s memory by focusing on her own happiness instead of properly grieving for him or something. She’s been very emotional lately and didn’t want to further complicate things. You ask me, she was waiting for the right time to tell you in her own way.”
“All I want to do is love her, Josh.”
His friend
nodded, clearly touched by his sentiment. “Do you have a plan?” He looked like he harbored a secret, and a pretty good one.
“A plan?” Knowing Rebekah’s brother, Josh would have plan.
“Do me a favor, lumber man.”
Kevin quirked a brow at the nickname. Josh had called him that ever since the San Antonio work camp. He liked it since it accurately pegged him, but he liked it even more when Rebekah used the term. Probably because she used it in moments of closeness. Focus. “Sure. What’s that?”
“Take her to dinner—but not just any dinner. Dress in your best suit, and leave the boots, the hat and the guitar at home.” He raised one hand. “Not that she doesn’t love those things but shake her up a little. Give her what she thinks she wants, and then she’ll wake up to what she needs.” He ignored Kevin’s frown. “Splash on some of that musky stuff you wear sometimes. Drives the girl out of her mind. Be romantic as anything, give her flowers like you always do, and pour on the charm. Abundantly.”
Josh straightened in his chair and leaned closer. “Okay, this is the key—take her home at the end of the evening and kiss her like you’re saying good-bye without actually telling her anything about leaving for Houston.” He shot him a look. “Don’t say a word if she wears goop on her lips or anywhere else on her face. Treat her like the treasure we both know she is, and then make her practically beg you to kiss her. Leave her hanging and end the evening just short of telling her you love her. In other words, make it a real memorable evening, Kevin, but leave her wanting more.” He grinned. “Got all that?”
Kevin was stunned. He looked away, raking one hand through his hair. “I think so. I can’t lie to her, Josh. I can’t just take off for Texas and leave her without telling her.”
“I understand, but you’ll be back and forth between Texas and Louisiana, right?”
“Of course, especially if she commits to this relationship, I’ll be back as often as possible. It’ll be hard to stay away. As it is, it’s been torture these past few weeks.”
