by Elsie Davis
Amanda twirled in front of the mirror, her heart light with love.
It was hard to believe they’d been together for a year, and so much had happened. She’d paid off the bakery loan with the money from the sale of the recipe. Grandpa was healthy and becoming more active in the community. The girls had visited their mother in Paris and had a blast, and Kevin had survived the ordeal. Mostly because Amanda had been able to talk him through it and keep him occupied.
She’d even met Victoria, and, against all the odds, they’d become friends, both realizing that the more people who loved the girls, the stronger and more confident the twins would be. Nothing would take away the love the girls felt for their mother, and Amanda wasn’t looking to replace her. The fashion industry was competitive, but the love of Victoria’s daughters would never be a competition.
Amanda had chosen a warm outfit but hadn’t been able to resist the temptation to dress up. The red sweater dress and white pearls were perfect for Valentine’s Day. February Fool’s Day had ceased to exist, and in its place, her appreciation and understanding of the day set aside to honor love and hope had blossomed. Kevin was taking her to O’Malley’s Charm for dinner. Low key but special because it would be with him.
A knock sounded on the door. Kevin.
She raced for the door and opened it, eager to see him. Even after a year, every day with him felt special.
“Happy Valentine’s Day.” Kevin handed her a bouquet of roses and kissed her.
“Thank you. They are beautiful.” She lifted them closer to face to inhale the fragrant scent emanating from the blossoms.
“Like you.” He grinned.
“Let me put these in water, and then I’m ready.”
“A woman always on time. One of the many things I love about you.”
Amanda grinned. “That’s because I’m eager to see you. I’m looking forward to spending the night alone. It’s always hectic this time of year. You wouldn’t believe the online business for the Twin Delight Depression cake.” The company had agreed to combine both names, and the girls, of course, had been ecstatic.
“Oh, I do believe it.” He grinned. “Mark reminds me all the time what a shrewd business move it was when you added it to the deal.” Kevin pulled her close for a kiss.
For the compliment, she gave him two. “Thank you, kind sir. It was a spectacular idea. I just can’t believe he went for it, and the board approved it.” Amanda grinned. She put the bouquet in a vase and filled it halfway with water.
“They knew a good deal when they had it. Trust me, their sales are making them more than happy. Shall we go?” Kevin took her by the arm and led her to the car. Much to her surprise, the twins were there. She shot Kevin a questioning look but didn’t say a thing. Maybe he was dropping them off somewhere.
She smiled at the twins. “Hi, girls. This is a pleasant surprise. Happy Valentine’s Day”
“Happy Valentine’s Day,” Lacy was the first to speak up. It was great to see her standing on her own two feet lately and not always a shadow to her sister.
“Happy Valentine’s Day,” Macy chimed in. The girls had dressed alike, yet different. Same coat. Same hat. Different colors. It was a suggestion Amanda had made to help them express their uniqueness as well as the special bond they shared.
“I hope you don’t mind we are tagging along.” Macy scrunched her face. “Our friend’s parents had something come up, and we couldn’t go to their house like we planned.”
“Don’t you worry about it. Valentine’s Day is about love, and you know I love you both.” She had been looking forward to a night alone with Kevin, but this would work. O’Malley’s had become their family date night place each week, a time when they all slowed down from busy activities to share time as a family unit. This would be the same kind of special night.
Kevin drove carefully toward the restaurant. The roads were slick with the recent snowfall that had yet to completely melt and dry.
“Did you both have a nice day at school?” Amanda asked.
“Yup. We had parties today. And I got lots of Valentines.” Macy’s smile revealed how pleased the silly cards had made her feel. She wasn’t always as tough as she wanted to portray.
“She got one from Randy. He’s a boy that likes her,” Lacy said, her face all scrunched up in distaste.
Macy jabbed her sister. “Does not.”
“Does, too. Mary Ellen is his sister, and she told me that he talks about Macy at home and that he has a crush on her.”
“Whatever. Mind your own business,” Macy huffed.
Amanda laughed. The two might fuss with each other, but the bond was undeniable.
“Don’t even start thinking about boys and dating. You’ve got years before I’ll consider the possibility,” Kevin said firmly, shaking his head.
“Oh, Daddy. One day, you’re going to have to face the fact we’re practically teenagers.” Macy sat back, folding her arms across her chest.
“Don’t remind me,” he retorted.
They arrived at the restaurant, but parking appeared to be at a premium. Everyone not out on a Valentine’s date or with other special plans had apparently shown up to attend the Heart to Heart festival at the Masonic Hall.
“With so many people at the festival, we shouldn’t have a wait at the restaurant. If we can just find a place to park.” Amanda scanned the street, looking for an opening.
“Good point, and lucky for us since I didn’t make reservations,” Kevin said, looking guilty.
“Oh, I thought you were going to.” She frowned. It wasn’t like Kevin to forget things.
“I was busy, but like you said, it’ll be fine. I’m positive.” He parked the car, and they walked toward the restaurant, Amanda drawing her coat tightly against the cold evening air.
“Hey, look, there’s Jennifer. And she’s with Lori. Daddy, can we please go say hi?” Macy asked.
“Just a few minutes. Please?” Lacy added, her you-can’t-say-no smile wide across her face as she reached up to grab her father’s arm.
“I thought she was staying home with Will tonight. That’s why she offered to watch Cupcake.” Amanda wasn’t worried about the dog being left alone, just confused that Jennifer had changed her plans without telling her.
“I guess a few minutes won’t hurt. Okay?” Kevin looked at Amanda for confirmation.
“Sure. I can talk to Jennifer and see what’s going on.” They headed for the Masonic Hall, waving at Jennifer as they drew near. The girls took off running to meet up with their friend.
“I can’t believe you’re standing outside in the cold, Jennifer. I thought you guys were staying home tonight?”
“Hey, there. We are, but I needed to drop by and talk to someone for a minute. I was waiting out here for them to show, but it’s so cold I think I’ll go inside with you and wait. Will’s inside talking to some friends anyway.”
The room was packed with even more people than last year.
“I’ll be right back; I see Tanner and want to say hello to him and his wife,” Kevin said, dropping a kiss on her cheek and walking away.
Amanda gazed after him, thankful for each new day they shared together. It had been a happy year filled with more love than she could possibly believe.
“Good turnout this year,” Amanda said, gazing around the room, the place a sea of familiar faces.
Jennifer reached for her coat. “We have you to thank for that.”
“I didn’t do anything. I’ll keep my coat, thanks. We’re headed for O’Malley’s for dinner, but the twins just wanted to talk to their friend for a few minutes.”
Jennifer laughed. “I think everyone’s decided this is the hottest spot to meet the love of their life. You have to stay for a few minutes and say hi. Just because you have a boyfriend doesn’t mean you can’t be sociable.”
“Okay. You win.” Amanda grinned and handed Jennifer her coat. “There’s no sign of Kevin or the girls at the moment. A few minutes won’t hurt. Oh, look, even
Grandpa’s here. And it looks like he brought a date.” Amanda waved and crossed the room to his side. “Hi, Grandpa, who’s your friend?” Amanda looked at the woman next to him with interest.
“This is Tricia Tate. She’s a nurse at Lancaster General,” Grandpa introduced his lady friend.
“Now that I can believe. It’s nice to meet you.” Amanda knew he went to Lancaster for regular checkups, but the old coot hadn’t mentioned a word to her about seeing anyone.
“Nice to meet you, too.” The older woman smiled as she held out a hand.
Someone tapped the microphone. “Good evening, everyone. It’s time to kick this party off with a bang.” Everyone cheered with way more enthusiasm than she could remember in the past.
She spotted Kevin across the room, walking towards her. Everyone in the room parted like the Red Sea, making a wide path for him to reach her. The light in his eyes shone brightly with love, a look she would never grow tired of seeing.
When Kevin reached her side, he dropped down on one knee, unable to breathe.
Her eyes filled with tears. There was only one reason a man went down on one knee in a situation such as this. But instead of reaching into his pocket for a ring, he lifted two fingers to his mouth and gave a shrill whistle.
Cupcake ran up to him with a box tied around her neck, the twins right behind her. Kevin opened the box, took out the ring, and then took her hand in his. Her heart raced, tears streaming down her face as she processed what was happening. It might all be blurry, but she wanted to remember this moment for the rest of her life.
“Amanda Tillman, I love you with all of my heart. I met you here last year and thought it fitting to bring you here to honor that moment and to start the next part of our lives. Together. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”
“And our stepmother?” the girls added, moving in to stand one on each side of their father. Her family.
Life was still busy, but with the right guy, it made all the difference, and there was no doubt in her mind that Kevin was the right guy. “Yes, I will. I love you, too.” Kevin slid the ring on her finger, the diamond dancing in the light.
“Yay,” the girls shouted in unison, hugging Cupcake.
“You hear that girl; we’re all going be family.” Macy rubbed the dog’s ears, much to her delight.
Everyone in the room clapped and shouted their congratulations.
Kevin stood and pulled her into his arms, dropping a kiss on her lips. “My heart, forever.” He touched his chest with the palm of his hand before drawing her onto the dance floor. “Shall we?”
“Anytime, anywhere, for the rest of our forever lives.” The music faded. Amanda’s eyes, ears, and heart were focused on the man who had broken through her defenses, showing her that real love conquered all.
Forever sounded pretty amazing.
What’s Next
Read the first chapter of LOVE & HOPE, book 5 of HOLIDAYS IN HALLBROOK…
Grace stood back to look at the three outfits she’d picked out for her first day at her new job tomorrow. One of them had to be just right, but which one? When she’d interviewed with one of the partners for the administrative assistant position at World Sport Inc., she’d been as impressed with his approachable attitude and appearance as he’d been with her resume and overall marketing experience. He’d made it clear that as Mr. Walker’s assistant, she would not only oversee the office, but also their marketing.
Essentially, during the startup of a company, people typically wore many hats. She’d be one of those people. Grace understood completely and had been thrilled when the man had practically hired her on the spot. And she’d accepted without a second’s hesitation.
It was a stroke of luck that the new online sporting goods retailer was opening a warehouse in Lancaster and that Grace had come across the job posting. Not to mention, a welcome relief after months of searching for new employment and just in time for her to catch up on bills and a past-due mortgage payment.
Lancaster was a bit of a drive from Hallbrook, but something she’d done frequently when she visited her mom and sister. Twenty-five minutes tops, which was doable. Winter always had its own set of issues with the roads, but Grace would deal with that situation after she was established and had proven herself as an asset to the company. By then, she hoped to have a little wiggle room.
She’d moved to Hallbrook for the quiet life five years ago after she graduated college and never regretted it until she got laid off from work. It gave her the space she sometimes needed from her family, the pair of them a bit overwhelming at times. Now, she loved the town and didn’t want to leave.
Not being able to work from home anymore was the biggest disappointment in losing her previous employment. The job itself hadn’t been all that exciting. But then, how could you glamorize over-the-counter medication like antacids and hemorrhoid cream. And then there was the flood of prescription drug commercials that required every disclaimer in the book for all the awful side effects as compared to what the drug was intended for. Her ads had been creative, even if borderline ridiculous at times. They were also mentally draining. The downsizing had been met with mixed emotions.
Lucky moseyed into the bedroom and jumped on the bed. “No, girl. Get off my clothes, please.” Blue-gray dog hair wasn’t the professional image she was striving for.
Grace moved the outfits out of the dog’s way. It was easier than making Lucky get down, not to mention she rarely told Lucky no for anything. Her dog was not only her best friend, but she was her confidant, so it was a good thing she could only bark and not talk. Grace shook her head and grinned as Lucky laid her head down on the comforter, her big eyes and oversized gray floppy ears too cute for words.
Grace picked up the light-blue blouse and dark-navy skirt and held them up in front of herself, checking out her reflection in the mirror. The outfit was professional, but it didn’t reflect much of her personality. “What do you think, girl?”
Lucky raised her head and almost immediately laid it back down.
“I agree. Not very noteworthy for a first-day appearance.” She tossed them back to the bed and eyed the black pants and white blouse. Again, professional but not individual. First impressions were huge, and since she hadn’t met the man who would be her new boss, she wanted to get the look just right. Jordan Tate had reassured her that his partner was a great guy and would be easy to work with, but that hadn’t lessened her tension.
Grace looked at the last outfit she’d chosen as a possibility. She shed her clothes and pulled on the white knee-length pencil skirt and then slid the satiny taupe blouse over her head and tucked it in for a cleaner line. The outfit looked good but still needed something. She glanced in her closet, her gaze landing on a pair of taupe above-the-knee boots she’d splurged on a year ago and only worn once since.
Working from home had its limitations when it came to opportunities to get dressed up and go out on the town, especially in Hallbrook, New Hampshire—a place where country living, church, and old-fashioned traditions came together.
She slid the boots on before grabbing the pink long sweater wrap hanging in the closet. Grace stepped back and checked out her image in the mirror, liking what she saw. This was perfect. Professional and yet creative. Exactly what her new boss would expect from her.
“Does this meet with your approval?” she asked Lucky. The dog rolled over, bored with the conversation and wanting a belly rub. Grace couldn’t resist, and she paused to sit next to her canine bestie. Three minutes was all she could give this time, no matter how much Lucky rolled around on her back, begging for more.
“All done, and back to work for me. You’re the most spoiled dog I know.” But she was also the sweetest dog Grace knew. She’d gotten Lucky from a rescue shelter for springer spaniels. It had turned out to be the best decision Grace had ever made. The dog was loyal, obedient, and a great companion. Exactly what Grace had needed a few years ago.
Grace hung the other outfits back up in the
closet, placing the one she’d picked on a hanger to keep it from wrinkling. She hung it up on the bathroom door, out of Lucky’s reach. She moved to the dresser and opened her jewelry box, picking out a pair of earrings and laying them on the nightstand.
The doorbell rang, and Lucky raised her head, one ear cocked toward the door.
Woof. Dog speak for someone’s at the door, in case Grace didn’t already know. Lucky jumped off the bed, raced ahead of Grace, and planted herself at the front door. Early on, Lucky had appointed herself as guard dog over the house and owner.
Not expecting anyone, Grace peered through the peephole. Living alone, you could never be too careful. She was surprised to see her cousin standing there with her baby daughter, Holly, firmly planted on her hip.
She pulled the door open, happy to see them. “This is a nice surprise. Come on in and let me take this cutie pie from you.” Grace reached for Holly. The little girl was happily holding out her arms, just as eager to see her. Karen’s rocker look hadn’t lessened in the months since she’d become a mom. If anything, she’d ramped up the facial jewelry, leather clothing, and tie-dyed hair. It wasn’t a look Grace could go for, but to each his own as far as she was concerned.
“Thanks. Sorry I didn’t call first, but I wanted to surprise you.” Karen smiled as Lucky nudged her leg, looking for attention. She quickly gave the dog a pat on the head and then retrieved the bags sitting on the front doorstep.
“You certainly managed that. Can you stay long enough for dinner?” Grace hugged Holly and kissed the top of her head, inhaling the sweet scent of baby shampoo and innocence. Holly had just turned a year old last month, and Grace had been at the party, completely smitten with her cherub face and bubbly personality.
Her cousin was one of those footloose free-spirited women who didn’t plan much in life, letting life come to them. Including Holly. At nineteen, Karen hadn’t accepted her new role as a mother. But then Karen’s mother, Grace’s aunt, made it easy for her to ignore those responsibilities. Aunt Helen watched Holly every day while Karen went off to do whatever it was that Karen liked to do all day. Which pretty much amounted to nothing, unless it had something to do with her rock band. She’d been out of school eleven months, and so far, she only had a part-time job to show for it.
