When A Man Loves A Woman (Seven Brides Seven Brothers Book 7)

by Calhoune, Belle

“So,” Wyatt said, “What do we need to do to get this house out of foreclosure?”

  “Great minds think alike,” Nick said. “We need to move on this quickly.”

  “Let’s all chip in on this,” Mac suggested. Although he wasn’t rich by any means it was important to him to contribute to this endeavor. No matter how big or small the contribution he might be able to make, it would feel satisfying to help.

  Brandon pulled out his cell phone. “Let me call BD Holdings and have them start moving on this before someone else buys the property. Rose will get on it right away. We can figure out how to divvy it up later. What’s most important is that Mrs. Worther gets her home back. ASAP. And I’d like to personally give her back every cent she lost in that Ponzi scheme.”

  The brothers all put their fists out and bumped them together. “Donahue strong!” they said in unison.

  Mac felt his chest expanding by the second with good will. He felt like the luckiest guy on the planet. There hadn’t even been a discussion amongst his brothers about whether or not they should support Mrs. Worther in her time of need. They all knew what they owed her. Their very lives. Although there was truly no way to ever repay her for what she’d given them, saving her house would be a step in the right direction.

  The brothers headed off to Hanover House and checked in to the bed and breakfast. They managed to take a quick walk into town before heading back to the B & B to rest up, shower and change their clothes. Mac had purchased a necklace for Delilah in a unique jewelry store he came across. The turquoise and sterling silver would look wonderful on Delilah, he thought. Although his brothers seemed very interested in his purchase, he wasn’t sharing his plans for the necklace. Some things didn’t need to be dissected with his brothers. For now at least, he was keeping his relationship with Delilah as private as possible and hoping his brothers would respect his wishes on the matter. The last thing he wanted was for Sarah, Rose, Gabi, Layla, Kaitlyn and Tess to get involved in his love life. And if his mother got a whiff of the fact that he was dating Delilah there would be a grand inquisition.

  The very thought of it made him shudder.

  At six o’clock on the nose they returned to Mrs. Worther’s house. They had arrived bearing gifts. A bouquet of roses. A box of chocolates. Season tickets for the Bay State Bombers. And a special surprise in an envelope. Once they stepped inside they were treated to the delicious smell of food emanating from the kitchen. Mac’s stomach grumbled noisily, earning him a jab in the side from Wyatt.

  “You boys are spoiling me,” Mrs. Worther chided as she accepted all the gifts. “And I love you for it,” she said with a cackle. “I feel like Queen for a day.”

  “Mrs. Worther. We have something else for you,” Brandon said as he handed her the envelope.

  “Oh my goodness! What’s in here?” she asked as she slitted the envelope open with her nail and gingerly removed the document inside. All the blood seemed to drain from her face as she scanned the paperwork. She dragged her eyes up to meet their gazes. “I can’t believe this. What have you done? This is the deed to my house.”

  “It’s yours now. Lock, stock and barrel,” Mac said, his voice vibrating with emotion.

  “You’ll never have to worry about having a roof over your head again,” Ryder said.

  Mrs. Worther let out a cry and covered her face with her hands. Her shoulders began to shake with her sobs. The brothers looked at one another, uncertain as to what to do to help her distress.

  “Are you all right?” Nick asked, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder.

  She dropped her hands and shook her head. “Oh, boys. I’m terrific. Those were tears of relief and joy and admiration for all seven of you. Twenty years ago I helped you find a home. Now it’s come full circle. You’ve given me my home back.”

  Due to Brandon’s vast connections and his multi-million dollar corporation, BD Holdings, he had been able to make a transaction through his legal team. Rose, knowing how much this endeavor meant to her husband, had made sure the matter was expedited. They had hand delivered the deed in a matter of hours to Hanover House, along with a hefty check for her bank account. Mac felt a burst of pride at the influence Brandon had in the world and the way he could make important things happen with a simple phone call. He was a strong, humble man who worked hard and rewarded those he loved with his fortune.

  Mac felt the hot splash of tears on his face. He looked around him. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house. All of his brothers were emotional. The symmetry of the moment was undeniable. Home. Such a simple word, yet rich beyond measure.

  After a few minutes during which Mrs. Worther thanked them profusely for their gift of the deed to her house and the check, she called them into the dining room for dinner. Eight chairs were spaced out around her long table. A delicate lace tablecloth covered the wood. Mac could tell from the mahogany legs of the table that it was good quality workmanship. It looked antique. It made him happy that she had been able to hold on to precious items despite her financial struggles. The table was full of a wide selection of dishes. Fried chicken. Roasted mashed potatoes. Green beans. Piping hot bread. Zucchini and squash. Macaroni and cheese.

  Mac patted his stomach as he took a seat next to Mrs. Worther. Everything looked amazing. Brandon sat down on the other side of her. The rest of his brothers took their seats around the table.

  “Let’s hold hands and say Grace,” Mrs. Worther said in a solemn voice as she bowed her head.

  As they held hands and created a chain around the table, Mrs. Worther began to bless the food. “Lord, thank you for the blessings of this day. Thank you for blessing my home with old friends who are always in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for this food and for the grace you show me each and every day. Words cannot express my gratitude for the gifts bestowed on me today. I am so very grateful, Lord. Please keep my Donahue boys in good health and happiness, and always grant them your favor. Amen.”

  A chorus of amens rose up at the table. Mrs. Worther looked around the table at them. “When I was growing up my family called me Jeanie since I never liked the name Beatrice. I’d like you boys to call me that. No more Mrs. Worther. After all we’ve been through together it’s rather formal, don’t you think?”

  Jeanie. It made Mac feel warm and fuzzy inside knowing that she was now an honorary member of the Donahue clan. Aunt Jeanie. From this point forward he would think of her that way, although it would take a while to adjust to the name change.

  As they dug into the incredible feast she had provided, they enjoyed a companionable silence. After a few minutes Mrs. Worther began asking them questions about their lives, their careers and their significant others. In return they asked her about her hobbies and aspirations.

  “One of these days I would love to travel around the world. I haven’t done a whole of traveling, but I’d like to make my way to Egypt. I’ve always wanted to see the Nile River and the Pyramids.”

  The brothers exchanged glances. Wish granted. Between the seven of them they would make that dream happen. As well as any others she could drum up in her mind.

  Jeanie turned toward him. “And you, Mac. Is there someone special in your life?”

  Mac wiped his mouth with a napkin, then sat back in his chair. “Actually there is. It’s a really new relationship, but she’s amazing. It’s quite unlike any relationship I’ve ever known.” His felt his cheeks flushing. It wasn’t like him to discuss his feelings. Something about being here with Jeanie was bringing it out in him.

  She patted his arm. “That’s wonderful, Mac. I hope it works out just the way you imagine. Love is the biggest gift we can ever be given. I had a chance once to get married and settle down.” She twisted her mouth. “I let it pass me by. And I’ve regretted it ever since.”

  Regrets. He didn’t ever want to live with remorse or regrets about things he’d failed to do in his life. He planned to pursue this relationship with Delilah without fear or reservations. Something inside him was urging him on and tel
ling him that she was the one. It was a scary feeling knowing that he was going to put everything on the line in his pursuit of love. But it was even scarier to think that he might blow this chance with Delilah by holding back or retreating from his feelings.

  He reached out and grabbed hold of Jeanie’s hand and squeezed it. No words were necessary. Much in the same way as she had done twenty years earlier, she was once again pointing him in the direction of love.

  “Knowing where your heart is leading you is an amazing feeling. Falling in love is never easy, but it sure beats the alternative.”

  Brandon Donahue

  Chapter Seven

  Mac was back in Breeze Point! Ever since he’d called earlier and told her that he and his brothers had made it back to Cape Cod, she’d been happy and excited. She had been hoping to hear from him today and find out about his visit with Mrs. Worther. She couldn’t help but wonder if his search for Callie had gained any steam. Mac wanted to locate Callie so badly. It would be devastating for him if the search didn’t yield any clues.

  While they were on the phone, Delilah had invited Mac to attend Shakespeare in the park with her this evening on the town green. The Breeze Point players were putting on a production of Othello, one of her personal favorites. Mac had eagerly accepted her invite and they made a plan to meet up in town at six thirty. He had teased her by telling her that he had some news that he was going to be sharing with her this evening. It was a little bit like torture to imagine what news Mac had uncovered in New Hampshire.

  Dear Lord. Please allow Mac to find closure with regards to his sister. I know with Your divine wisdom you placed Mac with the family of his heart—the Donahue clan. But no matter what, Mac will always have a place in his heart that cries out for Callie. Please fill that hole in his heart, Lord.

  By the time Delilah came home from work, took a shower and changed into her chic but casual outfit, it was time to head back to town to meet up with Mac for their date. Once she arrived on Main Street she had to circle around a few times due to all the congestion on the street. Tonight’s event was bound to be packed with townsfolk.

  After finding a parking spot a few streets over from Main Street, she walked over to the town green. She had stuffed a blanket in her over-sized purse so they could sit on the lawn. She couldn’t miss Mac standing by the entrance as she walked up. She gave him a subtle once-over, admiring the way he looked tonight. As always he had a rugged, manly appearance. He was wearing a pair of khaki pants with a white, button down shirt. He was wearing boat shoes on his feet and he looked a little more preppy than usual. As usual, he looked gorgeous.

  She didn’t know whether to give him a peck on the cheek or a hug. He must have felt the same way since he didn’t make any move to greet her with any intimate gesture. They both regarded each other sheepishly. She had no idea why this sudden feeling of shyness crept over her. Why did Mac bring out this side of her? She was an extrovert who very rarely felt off kilter.

  “I missed you,” Mac blurted out.

  She let out a sigh. How she loved the way Mac cut to the chase and spoke his mind.

  “I missed you too. And I almost called you about a half dozen times out of sheer curiosity,” she admitted.

  “You should have,” Mac said in a low voice. “I would have liked that.” Their eyes met and Delilah lost her train of thought as she found herself pulled in by his gaze.

  “Yes,” she said, uncertain of what she was saying yes to. “Exactly.” Oh no! She was babbling.

  Mac grinned at her as if he knew she was mesmerized by his presence. “Before I forget, I found this for you in Hanover. I hope you like it.”

  He handed Delilah a long pink box with a little bow on it. He’d bought her something in New Hampshire. More importantly, this gift showed her that she’d been on his mind while he had been away from her. With the enthusiasm of a child, Delilah opened the box, letting out a gasp of pleasure as a beautiful necklace stared back at her.

  “Mac!” she gushed, swinging her eyes up to his face. “This is stunning. Thank you so much.”

  “It reminded me of you. I’m glad you like it,” he said with an easy smile.

  “Can you put it on for me?” she asked, immediately wanting to wear the necklace he had so thoughtfully selected for her.

  She turned around so Mac could place the necklace around her neck and work the clasp.

  “Make sure it’s clasped tightly. I would hate to lose this,” she said fretfully.

  Mac’s deep chuckle warmed her ears. “I’ve got it under control, Delilah. Turn around so I can see how it looks.” Delilah whirled around and smiled as she saw the gleam in Mac’s eyes. “Perfect,” he said with an approving nod. He grabbed her hand and pulled her close to his side. They began walking toward the outdoor stage area where the production was being held. Mac reached into his pocket and pulled out some bills for the “donation only” admission.

  All the proceeds went to enrichment projects for youths in Breeze Point. It made her feel good to see Mac being so generous in his support of the arts.

  On their way past the concession stand they decided to get some snacks for the performance. They had already discussed getting some pizza after the show so they chose things to tide them over for the next few hours. After picking out drinks, soft pretzels and chocolate chip cookies, they headed toward an area close to the stage. With Mac’s help, Delilah spread out the blanket and they both settled down onto it in preparation for the show.

  Mac began to tell Delilah all the details about his trip to New Hampshire. She was overjoyed to hear about the information Mrs. Worther had revealed to Mac. In an investigation such as this one that went back two decades, any information was crucial. Someone out there knew what had happened to Callie. Someone had attempted to get information about Mac from the foster care agency. It was something vital to go on. Mac hadn’t hesitated to pass it on to Parker, who, according to Mac, had been intrigued by the southern angle and the probing phone call.

  Tears welled in her eyes as Mac recounted the moment that they had given Mrs. Worther the deed to her home and the check. It was such a poignant story—the reunion of Mrs. Worther with the seven Donahue boys. The deed to her home had been icing on the cake. A powerful act of love. It was just one more awesome facet to the Donahue brothers.

  The stage lights began to flicker as a warning to the audience that the show was about to commence. As the audience hushed, the actors took the stage in vibrant costumes, spouting flowery language that sent Delilah straight into heaven. The scenery was lush and faithful to the time period. The mood transported the audience back in time.

  After a few scenes unfolded, Mac leaned over and whispered, “I’m not too familiar with the Bard, but I’m enjoying this. Lots of drama.”

  “I’m no expert by any means, but I love the flow of the language. And you really have to listen to the words in order to absorb their meaning.”

  “Is it me or is this a little dark?” he asked with a raised eyebrow.

  “Very dark,” Delilah said with a somber nod. “But it’s one of his most powerful plays. A cautionary tale about obsession, jealousy and madness.”

  At intermission they dug into their snacks. The chocolate chips in the cookies had melted a little bit, making it slightly difficult to handle without making a mess.

  “Let me go to the concession stand and grab some napkins,” Delilah said. “I’m turning into a chocolate mess over here.”

  Mac made a move to get up. “Don’t worry. I’ll go.”

  Delilah was already on her feet. “No, you stay. Intermission is almost over. I don’t want you to miss it. I’ve seen Othello before and I read the book in high school. I’ll be right back.”

  She walked as quickly as she could back to the entrance. The concession area was a small, clapboard house lit up with bright lights. The delicious smell of buttery popcorn wafted in the air. Although her intention had been to simply grab some napkins and bring them back, the popcorn was seriou
sly messing with her mind. With a groan she capitulated and moved towards the short line of customers. Just as Delilah stepped into the line, the familiar tilt of a head caused her to stop in her tracks. Instinctively she turned around, fully prepared to beat a fast path out of the area. She moved towards the side exit, praying she could make a fast escape.

  “Delilah.” The sound of Tim’s voice was like grating nails on a chalk board. He stepped in front of her, nodding his head at her. Although he was technically a very handsome man, the very sight of him made her sick to her stomach. His physical appearance masked a dark soul. Tim’s good looks were marred by everything else negative about his personality.

  “Tim,” she replied in a curt voice. There was no need for her to encourage him with any further conversation. She wanted absolutely nothing to do with him. As far as she was concerned he was dangerous.

  “I see you’re hanging out with Mac Donahue. Is he your new man?” he sneered.

  “That’s none of your business,” she snapped. Delilah tried to walk past him, but Tim stepped in the way of her path. The smile on his face was mocking. His eyes flashed contempt.

  “Do you play games with him too? Twist him up in knots so that he doesn’t know if he’s coming or going?”

  She took a step backward. His tone seemed to radiate pure rage. It never failed to amaze her how bitter and angry Tim was about their break-up. He’d been the liar. And the cheat. Yet she was now the object of his everlasting scorn and vengeance because she had walked away from the relationship.

  “You really need to let this go, Tim,” she said in a firm voice.

  “You’re never going to find what you’re looking for,” he continued. “Do you know why Delilah?”

  Her throat felt dry. She hated confrontation. “I don’t care what think,” she said in a shaky voice. “Just leave me alone.”

  “You’re the problem. It’s not all the men you’ve dated. It’s you. You’re the poison. There’s something in you that destroys relationships.”