by Risk, Mona
“I know, you said you want only family and close friends.” Monte Damon grinned to his ears and clapped his News Director on the shoulder. “You can’t ignore us overnight, just because you’re getting married. We at KNR were your only family for years.”
Lou’s pulse slowed down at the pleasant tone of the producer and he shook his friend’s hand. He had chosen Monte Damon for best man and couldn’t forget the KNR staff who’d been so close to him. “You brought your wife?”
“Yes, we’ve reconciled. When I heard you saying a good wife is worth more than a career, I begged Betty to take me back. We’ll probably run a quickie about your wedding in the news,” he added with a wicked gleam in his eyes. “Your Assistant Director has decided it’d be a good story. Roxanne Ramsey Hayes gives the orders now.”
Ah, Ms. Hayes now followed her own agenda but Lou didn’t have time to argue with Roxanne. The mother was getting ready to exit the limousine. Lou strode to the altar with his best man and waited for his bride.
The Mendelssohn Wedding March chimed through the cathedral that was suddenly filled with more people than he’d remembered inviting. Monte nudged his elbow. “I took some liberties with your guest list. We couldn’t invite some and ignore others, so I told them that everyone at KNR was invited to our News Director’s wedding.”
“Everyone? You must be joking. Barbara will have my hide.”
“Not to worry. Your bride is a gem. Besides, we’ve decided KNR will foot the bill for the reception. I’ve already talked to the hotel manager of the Marriott Hotel where you’re holding your party.”
So be it, they would have two hundred guests at the reception. “I’m very touched and I know Barbara will be pleased by this display of loyalty.” He was also proud to see that the staff appreciated their big boss enough to come all the way from Atlanta for his wedding. He turned to watch the bridal cortege.
In long evening gowns of different colors and shapes, the Ramsay daughters, lined up in chronological order, each one stunning.
Madelyn entered first on the arm of her husband, followed by Roxanne and Greg, and then Heather and Jeff. Claire and her fiancé came behind. Lou burst with pride at the sight of Monica lovely in a long blue dress, with Baby Chris in her arms. Jake walked by her side, carrying Baby Lou.
Heather’s two younger sons held candles and carefully shuffled along the aisle. Her two older boys pulled a red chariot carrying Madelyn and Roxanne’s sets of twins. The four adorable little girls threw rose petals along the aisle to the congregation’s delight. Smiling guests flashed their cameras.
The only bridesmaid, Tiffany proceeded, a bouquet of pink roses clutched in her hands.
Finally Barbara appeared, all alone, radiant in a long white dress and holding a single white lily, exactly as Lou had imagined her when he’d insisted she wore formal bridal attire.
His gaze focused on her and a lump formed in his throat. “You’re beautiful, my love,” he whispered when she reached him. He took her hand and kissed her fingers.
“Dearly beloved,” the priest started. “Who gives this woman in marriage?”
A choir of feminine voices answered, “We do.”
The congregation burst out laughing.
The priest continued with his official ceremony, “If anyone knows of a reason why this couple can’t be married, let him speak now or hold his peace forever.”
Baby Chris and Baby Lou answered with cries.
“Not now, rascals, shush.” Lou scowled at his grandsons.
“Dad, you made them cry louder,” Monica scolded. She and Jake rocked them, to no avail. Their shrieks covered the background noise.
“Mama, baby cwying,” Madelyn’s toddler squealed.
“Baby booboo, cwaying,” her supportive twin repeated.
Roxanne’s twins joined the chorus. Baby screams echoed from the front row of the pews.
Barbara turned to Monica. “Sweetie, they’re hungry. Go feed them.”
“Not now. I can’t miss the wedding.”
“Okay, let me have—”
“No,” Lou said firmly. “You’re not holding any babies now.” He clasped her hand under his arm. “Father, please, hurry up, or my bride will go and feed six babies herself.”
“Okay.” The priest scowled and rubbed his forehead. “Would you Louis George Roland take Barbara—”
“Yes, I take her as my lawfully wedded wife. I’ll hold her and cherish her and keep her and her babies safe all my life.”
Loud guffaws exploded from various parts of the church.
“And I do take you, Lou as my cherished husband,” Barbara’s high-pitched voice rose above the babies’ screams. “The rings, Lou, quickly. The poor things are losing their voices.”
“Here. I thee wed and you thee wed me,” Lou muttered as they slipped the rings on each other’s fingers.
His best man scoffed. “You butchered olde English.”
“Monte, please, have some strong coffee ready for us after that cacophony. My head is about to burst.”
“Mine already did,” the priest mumbled. “I declare you husband and wife. Kiss your bride and go feed these monsters.”
Lou laughed and took Barbara in his arms for a short hot kiss. The guests clapped hands and the photographers clicked pictures.
“Way to go, Dad,” Monica said before turning around. “Jake, please bring me my poor baby.”
Parents ushered their kids out. The organist started an Alleluia, Alleluia.
“Alleluia,” the priest repeated, as he disappeared into the sacristy.
Barbara wiped a tear. “Oh Lou, it was the most beautiful wedding with all the children around.”
“Bless their little hearts. Thanks to them the ceremony didn’t last five minutes. Now I can give you a real kiss, Mrs. Roland.” Their lips joined for a long passionate kiss and their hearts sang together of love.
Thank you for reading Mother’s Day Babies
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If you enjoyed Mother’s Day Babies, you might also enjoy these other books by Mona Risk
Christmas Babies
Holiday Babies, Book 1
More than 47 five-star reviews. Praise for Christmas Babies…
“Mona Risk once again delivers an emotional story of great depth that touches the heart.”~ Debbie A.
“Love the book. I read it in one night and couldn’t put it down. The author is very good. I want to read more of her books.”~ L. Holloway
“This was a good book I would read again in the future.”~Danielle Whitney
“Very heartfelt and funny. Colorful and sad, but a great book to read.”~ Chrisy Miller
“I enjoyed it immensely and definitely keeping it to reread it.”~Christina Strawn
A heartwarming holiday story, set in South Florida.
Christmas is such a joyful Season. Except for the serious Dr. Madelyn Ramsay who has no time for fun. An unexpected health problem jolts her into the realization that there’s more to life than just work—more, like dating the charming but secretive Dr. Nick Preston and caring for the newborn twins nobody wants. Or more, like enjoying her Christmas gifts before it’s too late.
Read a sample or buy Christmas Babies on Amazon.com: http://tinyurl.com/burgd9j
Valentine Babies
Holiday Babies, Book 2
More than 53 five-star reviews. Praise for Valentine Babies…
“This is a sweet love story. It flows really well and is well
written. It will take you on an adventure; heart ache, tragedy, falling in love, overcoming fears all with a happy ending.” ~ Ravin
“Valentine babies was a great read that was sweet and satisfying romantic read that leaves you feeling all warm and fuzzy”~ Lori A Tyler
“I am a hopeless romantic. Not many books make me happy but this one really did.”~A. Martinez
“Quick reading story. Had me hooked from the beginning.”~ Beth Henry
Fearless reporter, Roxanne Ramsay, doesn’t think twice before traveling for important assignments, even in a war zone—until her last trip leads her to a life-altering mistake.
At his best friends’ wedding, Dr. Greg Hayes, who has a serious phobia of planes, can’t take his eyes off the lovely maid of honor. But why is Roxanne blinking away tears? Getting involved with the strong-headed and too generous reporter involves more complications than the bright doctor has ever faced in the OR. Yet what wouldn’t he do to save the love of his life and her baby?
Read a sample or buy Valentine Babies on Amazon.com: http://tinyurl.com/avb2kbu
Babies in the Bargain
Babies in the Bargain, voted BEST ROMANCE NOVEL at Preditors & Editors Readers Poll 2009.
Babies in the Bargain won 2010 BEST CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE NOVEL at Readers Favorite.
Praise for Babies in the Bargain…
“Babies in the Bargain is one novel that pulls you into the story and holds you captive to the last page.”~ Romance Junkies
“Babies in the Bargain was just amazing! It started out very dramatic and got my attention from the first paragraph.”~ The Long And The Short Reviews
“The story is one that will leave the reader believing in the power of true love.”~ Sally Pink Reviews.
With only one year left to complete her medical training, Dr. Holly Collier vows not to let anyone mess up her schedule. Especially not Dr. Marc Suarez. The heartthrob of the hospital who used to collect sports’ trophies and nurses’ kisses broke her heart seven years ago.
When a tragic accident transforms the carefree playboy into a dedicated, but novice father to his nephew, Holly gives in to her maternal instincts and turns her structured life upside down for the orphaned preemie. But can she learn to trust Marc again and believe in true love?
Read a sample or buy Babies in the Bargain on Amazon.com: http://tinyurl.com/6mcd6e3
No More Lies
2011 EPPIE Award Finalist.
2010 Best Contemporary Romance ~ Readers Favorite
Praise for No More Lies…
“Such a charming story. Keeping the reader entertained with the twists and turns in the plot.” ~Got Romance!
“Full of emotion, suspense, intrigue, good intentions and determination.” ~The Long And The Short Reviews
“A wonderfully written book about true love and the rarity of second chances.” ~Happily Ever After
A lie that brings a smile… or the truth that draws tears?
Dr. Olivia Crane lives a quiet life. No one questions why she doesn’t socialize or where she spends every weekend. When the visiting physician from France strolls into her office, with open arms and a confident smile, her perfect control is about to crumble.
Good God, he can’t be Dr. Luc George, the man she loved ten years ago? Should she return his scorching kisses, or should she lock her door before he digs into her many secrets?
Secret daughter, secret friend, secret enemy. Had Luc really known his sweet Olivia back then? He wants her back, but he wants the truth, too. Now, Olivia has to face her past before she can grab her second chance.
Read a sample or buy No More Lies on Amazon.com
http://tinyurl.com/79r88wp
Right Name, Wrong Man
Praise for Right Name, Wrong Man…
“Unforgettable! Pulled me in within the first chapter and kept me hooked.”~ Seniorcitizen
“This contemporary romance has it all: a strong likeable heroine who has overcome problems that will resonate with many readers, a to-die-for hero, the perfect alpha male, and a fantastic setting in the beautiful French countryside.”~Loves Romance
“This is a must read. If you like it then I also recommend “Babies in the Bargain” and “No More Lies”. They are truly art in words.” ~ Cheryl Hayes Gassen
What’s a girl to do when she whispers another man’s name in her fiancé‘s arms?
When forbidden dreams about the sexy French Dr. Yves Malroux assail her at every turn, Mary-Beth puts her wedding plans on hold. The man would probably not even remember the plump nerd she was three years ago, before she lost her illusions faster than her pounds. Regardless, to be able to marry her fiancé without any reservations, Mary-Beth needs to confront her past, and flies to France for a summer training program in surgery with Yves.
But Yves never forgets an organ he removed from a patient or a woman he dated. And he never forgot the pretty student of Harvard Medical School who has turned into a stunning beauty, and now seems in need of coaching about spicing her serious life with some fun and passion.
While too many questions still swirled in her mind, her jealous fiancé summons her back home. Will Mary-Beth let her heart decide who’s her right man? Will Yves break his no-strings-attached rule to offer love and commitment?
Read a sample or buy Right Name, Wrong Man on Amazon.com http://tinyurl.com/85o4wg7
Neighbors and More (High Rise Series)
Praise for Neighbors and More…
“Mona Risk was able to keep you guessing until the very end of the book, a page turner for sure, as to who the perpetrators of the various crimes
were. ”~ Cheryl Hayes Gassen
“With a cast of interesting secondary characters and a beautifully described setting, this is a compelling romantic suspense. ” ~Loves Romance
“A great take-you-away read for a summer weekend!”~Michele Drier
Neighbors and More is a romantic suspense, and the first book of the High Rise Series.
High Rises are like large families where members face love, hate, meddling, and gossiping. When the neighbor who was harassing her is found dead in the Jacuzzi, Alexa is a prime suspect. Can she count on her dear neighbors, including the delectable Italian, Dante, for help? With too many skeletons in their own closets, would they save or incriminate her?
Read a sample or buy Neighbors and More on Amazon.com http://tinyurl.com/96bjqcm
Her Greek Romance
Praise for Her Greek Romance…
“It’s like a Mini Vacation! Mona Risk Creates a ‘New Subgenre’: The `Highly Romantic’ Romance!” Vincent Mooney
“Her Greek Romance” is a wonderful romantic escape with a beautiful romantic setting.
I highly recommend it.”~ Sally Pink Reviews
A sexy and humorous Contemporary Romance
— Romeo and Juliette Greek style
— Love letters from the past and a crumbling pink villa.
—A Greek God—well, no, an ordinary man who only looks like one—and a lovely and brilliant American attorney.
—All set in Mykonos Island.
In court, Ashley is in for a nasty surprise about her handsome Greek god and Stefano is about to lose the only woman who’s ever touched his heart. Will Stefano be able to convince Ashley he’s not the enemy anymore?
Read a sample or buy Her Greek Romance on Amazon.com
http://tinyurl.com/7xwp8eo
A Word about the author…
In a past life, Mona Risk was a chemist who mixed solutions, dipped her gloved fingers in dirty waste, and ran complicated equipment in order to declare drinking water safe for consumption. When her Ph.D. and work in chemistry landed her international contracts to refurbish laboratories, she traveled to more than sixty countries on business or vacation. To relax from her hectic schedule, she avidly read romance novels and mentally plotted her own books.
Eventually she left a scientific career to share with her readers the many stories brewing in her head. M. Risk likes to set her novels in t
he fascinating places she visited, from exotic Belarus, and historical France, to the beaches of Greece, the monuments of Egypt and the mysterious Islands of Seychelles.
Her books have garnered: Top Picks; Outstanding Read; Sweetheart of the Week; Best Book of the Week at various reviewers, received two mentions in Publisher’s Weekly, and have won several awards, from Best Contemporary Romance of the Year at READERS FAVORITE, to Best Romance Novel of the Year at Preditors & Editors Readers Poll.
Mona Risk continues to write and read while traveling and discovering unchartered territories and fresh inspiration for new stories and different settings.
Contact Information
Mona Risk can be found at: www.monarisk.com
www.monarisk.blogspot.com
On Twitter: @monarisk.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MonaRisk?ref=tn_tnmn
Nothing would please her more than to hear from her readers. You can write to her at [email protected]
Table of Content
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Chapter Eleven
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Chapter Fourteen
Epilogue
