Forever, I Promise (A Northern Woods Novel)

by Roberts, Charliann

  Wade turned his head in the direction which she stared, then back at Hailey. Her face was pale and he put one arm around her shoulders to lead her away, his other hand pushing the stroller. They stopped at some chairs in the center of the mall. “Let’s sit for a moment. Aren’t you feeling well?”

  Hailey only nodded.

  “What happened back there? You looked as though you’d seen a ghost.”

  “I feel better now. I’m sure it was my imagination.” She rubbed her knees with her palms and continued. “Mrs. Claus looked a bit like Kellie and she stared at Tara with a radiant glow.”

  Wade stepped aside and tried to get a look at Mrs. Claus but there were too many people in line and they blocked his view. “I’m sure she looks at all of the children that way, honey. You’re getting tired. Let’s head home.”

  “Okay,” she said, and they stood. “We can always bring Tara to Toys“R”Us tomorrow.”

  The following day they did as planned and brought her to the store, found a children’s rocking chair and a rocking horse similar to the one Hailey spotted in the catalogue. Tara chose the horse and Wade lifted her onto the little wooden saddle. They both knew immediately this would be the perfect gift from Santa.

  Wade removed her from the little pony and Tara began a tantrum as tears streamed down her face, her lower lip protruding. She wanted to keep riding. “Tara, I told Santa you’d like one for Christmas. If you’re a good girl and don’t cry, he might bring you one. You’ll have to wait and see.” She apparently didn’t agree. Wade put her into the stroller and her thumb immediately slid into her mouth. She fell asleep before they left the mall. The rocking horse would be delivered tomorrow.

  “I think I’ll order a few things from the catalog, Wade.”

  “Go ahead,” he agreed. “It’s much easier that way.”

  “Was there anything you’d like to shop for?” she asked.

  “Nope; I purchased gifts for my two lovely ladies quite some time ago.”

  She glanced at him with a look of surprise. “When did you find time to shop without me?”

  He tapped her nose lightly. “I’ll never tell,” he said, and winked at her. “Let’s get home.”

  Unfortunately the roads were slick and Wade drove slowly. Tara was hungry and Hailey gave her a few soda crackers she carried in her purse for a situation as this.

  By the time they arrived home safely it was seven-fifteen. Wade volunteered to feed Holly and let her outdoors. He’d then fix something quick and easy for their supper while Hailey bathed and prepared Tara for bed. Wade was sure Tara would like hot dogs and macaroni and cheese so that was what it would be; anything to make that sad face smile again. It may not be nutritious but she’d be happy and if she was happy so were they.

  Tara was finally in bed for the night and Hailey entered the living room where she found Wade reading. After folding the paper he set it on the end table and looked at her.

  “I have a great idea… how would you like to invite our friends and co-workers over around noon, the day of Christmas Eve?”

  “Oh, I don’t know, Wade. I would assume everyone will be busy getting ready for their Christmas celebrations. They may even be going out of town.”

  “I asked the guys if they were planning to go anywhere for the holidays and by the sound of things, they all tend to celebrate Christmas at home this year. We could invite them to drop by for eggnog and hors d’oeuvres, long enough to stop in and say hello, Merry Christmas before they head out to do whatever was on their agenda.”

  “Hmm… that does sound like fun.” She stared at the low flames as they flickered in the fireplace. “Perhaps I’ll invite a few of my customers also,” Hailey added with a smile. She began to write a list of food she’d need for the appetizers then stood. “I’m going into the office and try to come up with a nice Christmas invitation. I can print them and the address labels and drop them in the mail tomorrow.”

  “I’m glad you like the idea. Let me know if you need any help.”

  “I’ll need you to get the addresses of the men and their families. Once I have them it shouldn’t take long at all,” she said, and hurried down the hallway to the office.

  * * *

  Hailey prepared the hors d’oeuvres and arranged them on the beautiful crystal plates they received as a wedding gift. Wade prepared the eggnog; he made plain eggnog for the children and “special” eggnog with rum for the adults.

  Their gathering on Christmas Eve was enjoyable. Nick, Mariah and their children arrived, along with all of Wade’s co-workers, and many customers from Hailey’s Garden.

  After the final visitor left Wade helped Hailey with the clean-up, though there wasn’t much to be done. When the dishes were washed and dried, Hailey returned the crystal to their built-in cabinet of polished oak.

  They now sat in their recliners near the fire while Tara played on the floor with Holly, tossing a tennis ball for her to retrieve. Holly returned it immediately and Tara would giggle and toss it again. She loved to play with her dog. Wade recently taught Holly how to shake, catch and roll over. She was so smart and knew how to please them all.

  Hailey noticed the time on the clock above the fireplace and stood. “Okay Tara, it’s time for bed.” She pouted until Hailey added, “Santa won’t come to your house until you’re sleeping.” That grabbed her attention.

  “Sanna,” she said.

  “Yes, Santa is going to come soon. We’ll put your pajamas on and I’ll read you a Christmas story.”

  Hailey returned to the living room. When Tara had fallen asleep Wade spread the toys from Santa across the floor. Hailey placed the small ones around the tree while Wade took on the job of putting the rocking horse together.

  “Why do the fathers get the messy part of assembling the toys?” he asked, as he stared at the sheet with instructions.

  “I believe that’s what dads were made for,” Hailey answered with a smile. “You’ll look forward to the year you’ll have to put together a kitchen set. My dad never let me forget how long it took him to put mine together – only three hours.” She smirked when Wade’s mouth dropped. “Would you like a glass of the eggnog leftover from the party? There are also a few deviled eggs in the refrigerator.”

  “I’ve had enough to eat today, although I could use a tall glass of the special eggnog,” he muttered, while he moved his hand along the floor in search of his screwdriver. Hailey spotted it, picked it up and handed it to him. “Thank you, hon.”

  The project was completed and Tara’s new rocking horse stood in front of the Christmas tree with the colorful lights sparkling upon it.

  “Oh, Wade… she’ll love it.”

  “Uh huh, by the tantrum she put on at the toy store when we tried to leave, I’m sure she will,” he said and shook his head.

  “What have you planned for our Christmas dinner?”

  “I bought a whole ham yesterday. We’ll also have augratin potatoes and fresh vegetables; there will definitely be enough ham leftover for sandwiches in the lunch you take to work. I’ll use the meat left on the ham bone to make pea soup.”

  “It all sounds delicious.” Wade gave her a hug. “You’re a good cook.”

  “You’re not a bad cook yourself, sir,” she said and smiled. “Many times you’ve prepared our dinner when I was busy with my customers.”

  “Let’s stop talking about food and hit the sack, my lovely lady. Santa will be here before you know it.”

  * * *

  Morning arrived too quickly; both Hailey and Wade heard Tara calling for them.

  “Momma,” she called, and they heard her bouncing up and down in her crib. “Dah-dah!

  “I’ll be right there, Tara,” Hailey answered. “Stay in bed if you’d like,” she whispered to Wade. “She may only need to go potty. I doubt if she remembers anything about Santa.”

  “Oh no,” he whispered and climbed out of bed. “I’m coming with you – I want to take pictures. I don’t want to miss that smile on her face
when she sees her horse.” He reached for the camera from the top of the dresser while Hailey went to the nursery.

  “Hi sweetie,” Hailey said, and entered Tara’s room.

  “Momma!” Tara said, and raised her arms in the air.

  Hailey brought her into the bathroom and set her on the potty chair while Wade went to the living room and waited with the camera.

  “Good girl,” Hailey said, and pulled up her pajama bottoms, lifted her to the sink and allowed her to wash her own hands.

  Hailey helped Tara down the three stairs before she released her hand. She grinned at daddy, who stood near the sofa, ready to take pictures. He pointed toward the Christmas tree and Tara turned her head to see.

  Her eyes opened wide and she ran over to her rocking horse. “Up!” she called out and grasped one of the pony’s legs. She lost her balance and plopped down on the carpeting. Hailey helped her up and set her on the rocking horse. She was able to reach the indents on each side of the pony where she inserted her feet. She rocked back and forth in delight as Wade took many photos. They were beautiful.

  Hailey decided that Tara had enough time on her horse and the three of them sat on the floor together and continued to open presents. Hailey and Wade enjoyed watching Tara open all of her presents. She tore open the paper on the gifts and screamed with excitement – fascinated with the Christmas wrappings more than the toys.

  Hailey now handed a present to Wade. “Here’s to you, Wade. I hope you like it.”

  Tara helped him remove the paper from the small package. He opened the box and quickly removed the watch with a smile. “This is the same watch I admired at Sears during our visit to the mall!” he exclaimed. “Did you return the next day to make the purchase?”

  She nodded.

  “Thank you, sweetheart. I love it.” He leaned over to give her a kiss before he extended his arm under the far side of the tree and withdrew the gift he purchased for her. He placed it in her hands. “I think you’ll be surprised.”

  “I love everything you’ve ever given me, Wade.” She smiled and lifted herself to kiss his cheek before she allowed Tara to help her open the gift. She slowly raised the cover of the red velvet box and drew in a quick breath at sight of a pear-shaped two-carat diamond ring. “Oh my,” she whispered, her free hand covered her mouth. “Wade, this is the most elegant gift I’ve ever received.”

  He took the box from her hand and removed the ring. It glittered under the soft lights from the tree and he slid it on her ring finger next to her wedding band; both were of white gold and matched perfectly. It was stunning and tears trickled down her cheeks. He took her face in his hands and wiped them dry with his thumbs.

  “I love you, sweetheart.”

  “It’s stunning – I love you too!” She threw her arms around his neck. Tara took hold of her knee and Hailey showed her the ring. Tara touched it before she turned and scampered back to her rocking horse.

  “Up,” she said, and turned to look at them. Wade stepped over the shreds of wrapping paper and lifted her onto the horse.

  “When we were married I wasn’t able to afford a diamond for you and I wanted to surprise you with one now.”

  “I love it, Wade. I’ve never in my life owned anything so beautiful.”

  “What?? You mean Tara and I aren’t the most beautiful things in your life?”

  Hailey slugged his shoulder playfully before she kissed him with passion.

  “Momma,” Tara called out, and Hailey walked over to lift her from the rocking horse.

  “Okay, my little Princess, I know you’re hungry. I’ll go out to the kitchen and make an omelet for each of us while Daddy plays with you and your new toys.”

  But first Wade took Hailey in his arms while Tara wrapped her arms around her legs. “Merry Christmas, Babe. I love you.”

  “Merry Christmas, Wade. I love you too.”

  Chapter Eighteen

  Both Wade and Hailey had again been on the computer in search of Kellie, though to no avail. They still were unable to locate her and it would soon be Tara’s third birthday.

  “I’m beginning to wonder if we ought to call and report her to Missing Persons, Wade.”

  “I’ve thought the same, although out of those few phone calls you received, one may have been her. If you receive another, make sure you check again to see if the caller’s number shows up on your phone. Also, if the person happens to pause before hanging up, say something.”

  “Like what, Wade? I have no idea if any one of them was Kellie.”

  “Ask if they need help, or anything that may encourage them to say something. Assuming it is Kellie, you might say something about Tara. Tell her how much her daughter has grown, something like that, without giving out Tara’s name. We can’t let this go on. If we don’t receive a message from her soon we’ll need to report her as missing and explain the situation – we were asked to be Tara’s guardians for a short time and we haven’t heard one word from her since the day she left her in our care.”

  “That would sound as if we don’t want her. Child Protective Services would take her away from us.” Hailey’s eyes clouded with tears.

  “Don’t worry, honey. We’ve heard not one word from Kellie. We’re the only people who know about Tara’s mother and we’ve done exactly what she asked us to do. I doubt there will be a problem of any kind. We received a letter written by Kellie herself stating that we are Tara’s guardians. That should be proof that Tara is to remain with us. Now let’s not worry. You’ll have fun planning Tara’s party.”

  * * *

  Hailey invited all of their friends and co-workers with children to Tara’s third birthday party on April 14th. Most of them had attended her party last year plus a few more. Everyone returned a reply to let them know they would be there on Saturday at two p.m.

  Wade purchased a swing set for Tara and put it together in the backyard while she’d been napping. It held two swings, a circular slide and a two-seated glider. He also bought a sandbox to put into the ground with enough distance from the active swings so no one would get hurt. They would show her the new play area when the guests arrived.

  Hailey baked a white cake with pink frosting along with homemade vanilla ice cream. She also picked up party hats and whistle blowers for each child.

  Tara was surprised at all of the gifts she received. The three Colburn children gave her a little red wagon, and from the others she was given many different toys recommended for a three year old.

  The party went well, as planned; the children had a wonderful time playing Pin-the-Tail on the Donkey, Clothes Pin Drop from which they would lean over the back of a kitchen chair and the child who dropped the most clothespins into a bottle would be the winner. The third game was Bucket Toss – the winner was the person who tossed the most ping pong balls into a bucket. In the end, they all received a prize.

  While Hailey tended to the children with the games and prizes the house phone began to ring. Mariah offered to answer it though Hailey told her to let it ring. “If it’s important, they’ll leave a message,” she said.

  When the youngsters began to tire of the games Mariah gave Hailey a hand with serving the cake and ice cream before they were led to the backyard to make use of Tara’s new playground.

  The mothers sat on the deck and relaxed in the lawn chairs while they sipped their coffee and kept a close eye on their little ones. Hailey stepped back into the house for a moment and checked the phone for messages. The red light was blinking and she pushed play: “Happy birthday, baby.” Hailey was stunned. Her hand shook as she hit the replay button. “Happy birthday, baby.”

  At that moment Mariah stepped into the kitchen through the sliding door. Holly ran over to her and she bent down to pet her. When she stood, she peered at Hailey. “What’s the matter, are you okay? Come over here and sit down.”

  “No, I’m fine. It was only a strange phone call. Someone called to wish Tara a happy birthday. I’m not sure who it was, although there were a few peo
ple who couldn’t make it to the party. It was probably one of them.”

  She tried to smile, took a deep breath and walked back outdoors with Mariah.

  At four p.m. everyone stood to gather their children. Hailey thanked them all for coming; she and Tara stood in the yard, and waved goodbye to all of Tara’s friends.

  * * *

  Wade had been visiting with Nick while the party took place; the two of them were out horseback riding in the pasture when they spotted Mariah driving along the dirt road as she and the children returned home.

  “I guess it’s time for me to head back and help Hailey clean up the house.” Wade laughed.

  “Hah! I can tell you don’t mind giving her a hand, Wade. If you minded you would have grumbled, not laughed.”

  “Yeah, you’re right.”

  They rode back to the corral and wiped their horses down then brushed them before Wade took off. “See you Monday, Nick.” He waved out the window and drove off.

  Wade parked his truck in the garage and climbed out. He entered the kitchen and noticed Hailey in the dining room. He removed his Stetson and tossed it on the hook behind the door.

  “Hi honey, how’d the party go?”

  She held her forefinger over her lips. “Shhh,” she said, and pointed to the living room floor in front of the sofa. There was Tara, sound asleep amongst her birthday presents. Hailey motioned for him to follow her into the kitchen to sit at the table. “Would you like some coffee?” she asked.

  “I better not,” he answered. “I could use a bottle of water though. Would you care for one?”

  “Yes, please. I had more than enough coffee with the women while the children were playing on Tara’s new playground. They had so much fun together.”

  Wade removed two water bottles from the refrigerator and placed them on the table. They sat across from one another and Wade slid a bottle over to her. “So how did the party itself go?” he asked again.