Intertwined Hearts Series (4 book collection): (Intertwined Hearts, An Exceptional Twist, Tangled Paths & Grafted Vines)

by Kimi Flores

  “I think this whole trip has been unexpected.”

  “I’d have to agree with that.” His phone rang as he leaned over and kissed me quickly.

  He answered, and I watched his blissful expression change to concern as he listened to the person on the other end. Turning slightly to give him privacy, I wondered what was wrong. After a few moments, I felt him run his fingers down my arm. He explained that Madison was sick with a fever, and, unfortunately, we’d have to cut our trip short.

  “Of course.” I was up on my feet, ready to go. My only concern was Madison.

  Caleb nodded and followed after me, trying to act nonchalant, but I could see the worry in his eyes. Truth be told, I was just as anxious to get back. This time I had the courage to take his hand, and we headed back to the car side by side.

  Chapter Fifteen

  The Cat’s out of the Bag

  Abby

  I was sad that our trip had been cut short, but at the same time I was also filled with awe watching how Caleb took no time getting back to his little girl. It spoke volumes to me what a good father he was. I only hoped Madison was feeling better.

  “Leah, he’s amazing. I can’t believe we’re officially dating now.” I was still on cloud nine.

  “How can you be surprised? He’s been gaga over you since you met, and even though you denied it,” she gave me the stink eye, “I know you’ve had the hots for him since then, too.”

  “Yeah, well, maybe I did,” I admitted begrudgingly. “But I didn’t realize he would ever give me the time of day. He’s handsome, successful, and the best father. He’s so good with Madison.” My voice was high-pitched and girly as I talked about the man I was already so in love with.

  “I’m sure he wouldn’t mind being called your daddy, either.” She cracked herself up as she popped me on the behind.

  I put both hands up in front of me and shook my head. “I’m not even thinking about that. You’re jumping way ahead, sista.”

  “I’m only kidding. I, of all people, wouldn’t tell you to jump into bed with him so soon. But dang, chica, he’s supah fine.” She continued to bust up.

  “Well, yes, he’s gorgeous.” I joined in the laughing. “But he’s more than that. His heart and soul are beautiful. When he told me the story about his wife, I freaking melted. I’m dating the bad boy turned good guy, every nerdy girl’s book boyfriend fantasy.” I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face if I tried to.

  “Girlfriend, you and your book boyfriends.” She shook her head. “I’m sure you have one you can compare him to, don’t you?”

  My nest friend knew me so well. “Maybe.” I sighed, but no fictional character compared to Caleb. “And the best part is I didn’t have to put up with his crap to get the good guy. I simply get Prince Charming off the bat—win.”

  Rolling her eyes, she added, “If he has a friend that’s already the good guy, toss him my way. I’m currently in need of a Prince Charming, too. All of the pendejos I’ve dated lately only want one thing, and you know I don’t give up the goods to just anyone.”

  I pressed my lips into a tight line. “You’ve dated some doozies lately.”

  Her expression was part misery and part humorous. “It’s not my fault that only jackasses like girls with big booties.” She smacked her behind.

  “You don’t have a big booty,” I said, exasperated. “Why do you always say that?”

  “Because I do, and I’m not complaining. I embrace my curves.”

  “I hear ya, and my wide hips agree.” I smoothed my palms down the sides of my hips.

  “Don’t forget about those huge knockers you’re sportin’, my friend.”

  “Hey, leave ‘the girls’ out of this.” I covered my chest, pretending to be offended.

  She continued teasing. “They’re here five minutes before the rest of you arrives.” She laughed a belly laugh and noticed my disapproving glare. “I’m just jealous, don’t mind me.”

  “Don’t be, at least you can buy your pretty bras at any lingerie store,” Abby muttered. “As you saw, I have to get mine from the old lady or porn star department, and most of those bras aren’t cute.”

  ⁂

  Principal Hanson looked up from his computer when I stepped into his office. “You wanted to see me?”

  He pointed to the chair in front of his desk. “Have a seat.”

  Filled with anxiety, I lowered myself onto the hard chair.

  “I’m sorry to have to drag you into my office, Abby, but it’s come to my attention that you and the parent of one of your students have been seen out in public together quite often lately. I know your personal life has nothing to do with work, but when the two cross, and others bring it to my attention, we have to have a chat.”

  I’d been dreading going into Principal Hanson’s office all day since I’d gotten a message saying he needed to see me after school. Crap, what was I going to do now? A million questions were running through my mind. Would I have to stop dating Caleb? I couldn’t bear that thought. We’d only been officially seeing each other a few days, but I knew he was the one. He was already ingrained in my heart. Would I have to make a quick decision right here and now, and quit the job I loved so much?

  “Just so I know exactly what we’re talking about, Dan, who was I seen with and where?” I wasn’t about to open my mouth and admit something he may not even be referring to, but what else could he be talking about?

  He raised an eyebrow as he pushed back in his huge office chair. “Are you denying something is going on?”

  I folded my hands tighter in my lap, keeping a cool, collected expression on my face. “I can’t deny anything if you haven’t told me what we’re talking about.”

  Huffing, he said, “I was called to a meeting by a couple parents concerned that you’ve been seen around town several times with Madison Hunter’s father. They’re concerned you may favor her because you’re possibly dating her father. Is this true?”

  Although I was in a tight situation, I would try to avoid answering in a way that sounded unfavorable. But bottom line, I wouldn’t ever deny my relationship with him. “Our families are very close, so the times we’ve been seen, we were either out as friends or just ran into each other. I’m assuming one of these concerned parents was Tiffany Zuckerman, because she saw us in a group having lunch together at the Chowder Festival a couple weeks ago.” I kept the venom out of my tone, though I really loathed that woman. Why couldn’t she just mind her own damn business?

  “No, she actually wasn’t part of the meeting. Other parents have observed you guys. Specifically, the two of you together. Alone.”

  “What?” I frowned, starting to get really worried. “How is that possible? We haven’t been together alone anywhere in Santa Barbara.” Then I remembered and caught myself. “Oh, wait. Caleb gave me surfing lessons a week ago when we were off school. I wonder if someone could’ve seen us at the beach.”

  Dan cleared his throat, seeming uncomfortable with where this conversation was going. “I wasn’t given details, but several parents have voiced their concern.” He clicked his pen open and shut several times, a nervous habit I’d noticed before.

  What could this mean for me, though?

  “So,” I started, taking a slow, deep breath. I had to stay calm to get my point across. “I can’t be friends with my students’ parents now? I grew up here in Santa Barbara, as did most of my students’ parents. It has to be the Power Moms causing the drama. They all have a noticeable infatuation with Caleb.”

  Grr, those Power Moms.

  I was irritated and wished I could give those women a piece of my mind. It had to be them. No one else would be this petty.

  I folded my arms over my chest and crossed one leg over the other. My leg bounced up and down as my irritation increased.

  Dan paused his persistent clicking and looked at me with his eyebrows raised. “Abby, that’s not very gracious of you, and completely opposite of your personality. Where did that come from?” He soun
ded surprised but not upset, so I didn’t hesitate to answer honestly.

  “I’m just tired of people pushing me to fulfill their agendas, and not thinking about me as a person and what makes me happy.” I didn’t even realize how true this statement was until it came out of my mouth. I was fed up with being pushed around.

  He let out a resigned breath. “So, I have to ask you officially. Are you and Mr. Hunter dating?” Leaning back on his leather chair, he looked as though he hated every question he had to ask.

  “Dan, why couldn’t you have asked me this question on Friday?” I slumped further into the uncomfortable chair. Letting out a long sigh, I fessed up, “We went away together this past weekend and decided to give us a shot. So, to answer your question, yes, I am now dating Mr. Hunter.”

  His expression was conflicted. “On a personal note, I’m happy you’ve found someone. But as your boss, I’ll need to figure something out.” He leaned forward again, placing his elbows on top of his desk.

  “Are you going to fire me?” I felt my bottom lip begin to quiver.

  “No, nothing like that. You’re one of our best teachers, and one of my best employees. I’ll have to remove Madison from your class, though.”

  My heart fell. What had I done? Madison wasn’t going to understand any of this.

  He continued, “I’ll have her remain in your class for the rest of this week, and then when we return from fall break, she’ll be transferred into Melinda’s class. It works out well because one of her students is moving and won’t be back. Hopefully that will call off the mob.”

  I nodded sadly. “I didn’t want to make any announcements since we just started dating. Madison doesn’t even know yet.”

  “We don’t have to publicize anything,” he assured me. “We’ll just make the transition and hope all goes smoothly. There won’t be an issue once she’s no longer in your class.”

  “Don’t these people have their own lives to worry about? I hate being talked about behind my back.”

  “Don’t worry. Nothing bad is being said. Parents are rightfully concerned. I would be too if my child’s teacher was dating another student’s parent.”

  As horrible as I felt, it made sense. “I guess you have a point when you say it like that. I looked through the policies and saw nothing about it, but I figured it would be frowned upon.” I stood, preparing to leave the office.

  He put up a finger. “One other thing. I noticed on your attendance sheet that she wasn’t here today.”

  “Yeah, she has the stomach flu.”

  “Okay.” He nodded. “Go enjoy your evening. We’ll get this squared away as quietly as possible.”

  “Thanks, Dan.” I left with the feeling that something significant was about to go down and this wasn’t the end of it.

  ⁂

  Caleb

  I’d just brought Madison home from the doctor and was coming down the stairs when Colbie Caillat’s “Fallen for You” rang out on my cell. I’d changed Abby’s ringtone yesterday and loved hearing it, knowing she’d be on the other end.

  “Hello, beautiful.” My heart actually felt like it did a flip. Apparently, it didn’t only happen to girls.

  “Hi,” was all she said in a somber tone.

  “Everything alright?” I stood still on the bottom step.

  “Yes and no. Can I come see you?”

  I swallowed, my whole body tensing. “Yeah, how about now? Madison just went down for another nap.” I ran my hand through my hair, worried about what she had to say.

  She groaned. “I’m sorry. I wasn’t thinking about her being sick.”

  “Abby, it’s okay,” I insisted, trying to ignore the sinking feeling in my gut. “Come over.”

  “Let me go home to change, and then I’ll be over.”

  She hung up without a goodbye. Either she had a lot on her mind, or she actually was coming over to break up with me. Well, I’d have to change her mind, because I wouldn’t let her go without a fight.

  Then I had an idea.

  Dialing a number from my cell, I listened to the rings. “Leah? How quickly could you put a spectacular bouquet together and deliver it to my house?”

  ⁂

  I spotted Abby pulling in next to my SUV as I tried to steady my heartbeat. Before she had a chance to knock, I pulled her inside and into my arms, trying to convey that no matter what she had to say, I was here for her. I would support her and be her partner in any way she needed.

  Relieved, I felt her melt into me. There was no denying I was already in love with her. Surprisingly, that didn’t scare me. It felt amazing to open my heart and let her fill the emptiness. Had she not asked to take baby steps, I would’ve been tempted to pick her up, take her to the nearest church, and marry her right on the spot. I was sure she was it, the one who I’d get to spend the rest of my life with. The one who would become part of our family, help me raise my child, and the one who would relish in it all. My chest filled with an emotion I hadn’t felt in so long—happiness, pure and unadulterated happiness. I would do anything for this woman.

  Tears poured from the corners of her eyes as I held her close.

  I pulled away and held her face in my hands. “What’s wrong? Please don’t cry. It’s breaking my heart in half to see you so upset.”

  “I’m sorry. I’m not normally a big sissy crier, but I seem to shed all my tears in front of you.” She wiped her eyes and pulled my palm to her lips to kiss, but the waterworks didn’t stop.

  “I don’t mind. You feel comfortable around me, I love that. Well, not that you’re hurt and crying, but that you’re at ease with me.” I moved us into the living room. “Have a seat.” Still lost as to what had upset her so much, I walked her over to my large leather couch and sat down. “What’s going on?”

  Dejected, she plopped down next to me and explained, “Well, I was pulled into my bosses’ office after school today. Apparently, a few parents have complained about us dating.” Her chin was still slightly trembling.

  “What?” I frowned. “How do they even know? It’s only been a few days.”

  “I know, but I guess we were seen around town by a few parents, and assumptions were made.”

  I was outraged. Those damn moms from the coffee shop. What the hell did they do? “Wow, they knew we were dating before we did.” Not wanting her to sense how pissed I was, I forced a chuckle, triggering her to snicker.

  That was a good sign.

  “So, the bottom line is, Madison,” another tear escaped her eye, “can’t be in my class anymore.”

  This was why she was so upset? That Madison couldn’t be in her class anymore, not that she wanted to break things off? If I hadn’t loved her before, this right here would’ve sealed it. I’d never met a more tenderhearted person. There was no doubt, I loved her.

  Overtaken by emotions, I couldn’t utter a word. I had to show her how I felt. Scooting as close as possible, I placed my palms on the sides of her face again and ran both thumbs along her tear-streaked cheeks.

  I was captivated by her glossy eyes. Closing the gap between us, I kissed her like never before. Parting her lips with mine, I hungrily darted my tongue into her mouth and deepened our kiss. I was so turned on by her, though I knew we had to stop. It had been a long time since I’d been intimate with a woman, and I was a starving man, further proving that we’d need to take this part of our relationship slowly.

  Afraid she’d feel like I was rejecting her, I gradually and tenderly broke our kiss before I no longer had restraint.

  Mesmerized, my words just came out. “Abby Sullivan, I am so in love with you. I don’t know what I would do without you in my life. Please don’t worry about these little things, or people who try to steal your joy. Madison will be just fine in the other class. I’m sure she’d rather have you around here all the time anyway.”

  Abby’s eyes were wide and still somewhat dreamy. “What happened to taking things slow?”

  Unable to help myself, I grinned from ear to ear. “T
he cat’s out of the bag anyway, so I figured what the hell, I’ll tell you how I really feel.” I inclined back to give her a little space.

  But she followed, leaning into me, her hand on my chest. “I’m in love with you, too, Caleb. Have been for a while.”

  “Thank God!” I pulled her in for another kiss, but knowing my hormones wanted my brain to take a backseat, I broke it and asked, “You hungry?” I dragged my fingers down her face as she nodded. “Good, because I made you a special dinner.” Then added, “Well, it’s the first time I’ve ever made it, so let’s hope it’s special.” I motioned toward the centerpiece on the dinner table behind the couch. “Those are for you.”

  Peeking around me, she smiled. “How did you know hydrangeas are my favorite—wait, when did Leah deliver those?” Of course she knew her best friend had dropped the flowers off.

  I let out a guilty chuckle. “Like two minutes before you walked up. I’m surprised you didn’t see her driving away.”

  She sighed and laughed softly. It was good to see her happy again. “After my awful day, I wouldn’t have noticed Adam Levine pulling out of your driveway.”

  I raised an eyebrow. “Adam Levine? From Maroon 5?”

  “Yeah. What can I say? I kinda have a crush on him. He’s my free pass.” She lifted her shoulders, then giggled nervously.

  I was confused. “What does that mean?” There was no way she was referring to what I thought.

  “You know, the celebrity I’m allowed to be with no matter who I’m actually seeing.” She didn’t look so sure of herself, or her answer, when my scowl expanded and an audible growl rumbled in my chest.

  “Abby.” I moved our bodies down until her back was flat on the couch, and she was nestled under me. With my face just inches above hers, I grunted, “I hope you’re kidding. You’re a part of my life now, and I don’t allow free passes. I would beat the hell out of any son of a bitch who even looked at you and thought he had a chance.” Hovering over her, the urge to claim her mouth with a deep, passionate kiss took over.