Date: 2019-02-18 22:00:00+00:00

Capture Me

SHERRY KYLE

Capture Me

© Copyright 2018 Sherry Kyle

All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means—electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, scanning, or other—except for brief quotations in critical reviews or articles, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Scripture quoted is New Living Translation. Public domain.

Cover design by Nick Delliskave. Cover based on images by Stocksy IMAGE 1721969, and Sarah Heller Photography, used by permission. Background photo by Sherry Kyle

Edited by Fay Lamb

Published in the United States of America

Publisher’s Note: This novel is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously. All characters are fictional, and any similarity to people living or dead is purely coincidental.

Published in association with the Books & Such Literary Management, 52 Mission Circle, Suite 122, PMB 170, Santa Rosa, CA 95409-5370, www.booksandsuch.com.

Paperback ISBN-13: 978-1790615209

To my sister, Cindy—

What would I do without

a sister like you?

You are a kindred spirit

and friend,

and one-of-a-kind!

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

~ Philippians 4:13

PRAISE FOR CAPTURE ME

In Capture Me, Sherry Kyle paints an emotional and inspirational story of memories and how they shape us. The delightful ensemble cast makes for an entertaining and thought-provoking read. Highly recommended!

—Julie Carobini, author of Walking on Sea Glass

Heartwarming and rich, Capture Me by Sherry Kyle did, in fact, capture me. Ashley and Kayla’s struggles with identity and the meaning of family resonate and remind us to treasure the people in our lives—no matter how flawed. Throw in a glorious beach setting, two sweet romances, a moody teenager, and a lovable Labrador retriever—what’s not to love? Highly recommended.

—Sarah Sundin, bestselling and award-winning author

of The Sea Before Us and The Sky Above Us

It’s rare that I read a book more than once, but Capture Me by Sherry Kyle did just that, it captured me, twice. Kyle has written a story that both charms and touches on deep issues. Reading it once won’t be enough.

—Ginny L. Yttrup, award-winning author of

Words and Invisible

Families are complicated, and Kyle skillfully weaves a poignant tale that touches every aspect of family relationships. Capture Me captures the reader with likable characters learning who they are in the midst of real life situations. Each character evolves through their relational interactions, and together as a family their union strengthens through various trials. Even their family crises and secrets end up drawing them closer. Capture Me offers a warm-hearted story of discovery, true family love and devotion, and the redemption of loss.

—Laura Bennet, author of Dangerous Ground

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 11

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 13

CHAPTER 14

CHAPTER 15

CHAPTER 16

CHAPTER 17

CHAPTER 18

CHAPTER 19

CHAPTER 20

CHAPTER 21

CHAPTER 22

CHAPTER 23

CHAPTER 24

CHAPTER 25

CHAPTER 26

CHAPTER 27

CHAPTER 28

CHAPTER 29

CHAPTER 30

CHAPTER 31

CHAPTER 32

CHAPTER 33

CHAPTER 34

CHAPTER 35

CHAPTER 36

CHAPTER 37

CHAPTER 38

CHAPTER 39

CHAPTER 40

EPILOGUE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Preview: PRAISE FOR THE HEART STONE

CHAPTER 1: FRESNO, CALIFORNIA

1

La Selva Beach, California

Ashley Stevens stood on the front porch and shaded her eyes from the early morning sun. “Here, boy.” Her voice shook with unwanted emotion.

She’d grown attached to the young pup she’d found yesterday wandering up and down the street. Poor thing looked like a cast-off when she spotted him, but a good scrubbing in the metal tub brightened up his beautiful tan coat.

She zipped up her blue sweatshirt, grabbed her car keys off the hook, and slammed the front door on her way out in pursuit of the Labrador. All God’s creatures deserved a loving home, and this pooch was no exception.

Sliding behind the wheel of her beat-up station wagon, she put the key in the ignition and peeled out of the driveway down the eucalyptus-lined street toward the beach, her teeth biting the inside of her cheek. “Tanner, where’d you go?”

Once in the parking lot, she scanned the area. A few dogs and their owners were taking their early morning walks.

Please be here.

She rushed to the shore and kicked off her sandals. The air was cool, crisp, and smelled of salt, and the waves crashed against the shore. Moist sand oozed between her toes, and a seagull flew overhead. She jogged up the beach, jumping over kelp and keeping her eyes peeled for the stray.

Ashley loved all the animals at the no-kill animal shelter where she worked and would take home as many as possible. But her grandmother had insisted that no animals were allowed at the beach house and told her as much on the phone the night before.

“Not just one?” Ashley’s voice rose a notch.

“Have you heard the saying, ‘If you give her an inch, she’ll take a mile’?” Grandma reprimanded. “I know you too well, Ashley Marie Stevens. You love those animals and won’t be able to stop at one. Pretty soon, the whole house will be filled with living creatures. Besides stinking up the place, you don’t have money to feed them all.”

“Is it okay to keep an animal overnight if I have to?” Ashley squeezed her eyes shut. She’d been pushing it, but how else would her grandmother understand?

Grandma had sighed. “One night, that’s all. Remember my allergies—and the reason you need to live in the beach house in the first place.”

How could she forget?

The photos all over the dining room table were proof enough she couldn’t afford an apartment let alone to keep an animal. If it weren’t for Grandma’s generous offer of the beach house in exchange for organizing the trunk of photos into scrapbooks, Ashley would still be living in her childhood home.

Now a half hour into her search, she had to call it quits or be late to work. Her heart sank as she made her way back to the car. At least she was able to wash the dog and give him a good meal. Maybe someone would find him and bring him to the animal shelter where she worked.

Ashley stepped onto the cool asphalt, brushed the wet gritty sand from her feet, and slid into her flip-flops. Her cell phone buzzed in her sweatshirt pocket. She answered it on the second ring.

“Hey, babe.” Bryan’s voice was low and husky.

“I can tell you haven’t had your first cup of coffee.” A smile lit her voice as she pictured her handsome boyfriend with his dark hair askew.

“You’re the first person I’ve talked to this morning.” He laughed. “Making coffee right now. You want to come over and join me for a cup?”

“Tempting but I’ve downed two already.” She sat on the worn upholstery of the driver’s seat. “But I wouldn’t mind grabbing a kiss or two.” Did she dare tell him Tanner ran away? No. Then he’d know she’d named him, which according to Bryan wasn’t a good sign. “Wait. Doesn’t school start in forty-five minutes?”

“Yeah, and I still need to hop in the shower.” Disappointment laced his tone. “We’ll make up those kisses tonight. I made reservations at Shadowbrook. I’ll swing by and pick you up at a quarter to six.”

The classy restaurant overlooked the beautiful Soquel Creek in Capitola. Her heart raced at the possible reason he might be taking her there. “I’ll be ready.”

“I’d better get in the shower. See you tonight, Ash.”

“Can’t wait. Love you.” She clicked off her phone and started the engine.

As a schoolteacher, it wasn’t like Bryan was loaded and took her out to expensive restaurants every weekend. Quite the opposite. She counted on one hand the number of times they’d eaten at upscale establishments and those had been for birthdays or other milestones.

Today signified nothing except for the fact she hoped to find Tanner a good home. And now that wouldn’t happen—unless she called Bryan back and asked him to change their reservation to a later time.

The minute the thought crossed her mind, she wanted to take it back. Bryan already believed she paid more attention to rescuing animals than to him—a fact that was true on occasion and had been the topic of many strained conversations. He had even teased her for driving a 1988 station wagon, but she needed the space for transporting animals, a completely logical choice for someone who worked at an animal clinic.

Taking care of abandoned and neglected animals was her passion, her true calling, and filled a deep-seated sense of loss she couldn’t pin down.

“Ashley, get a grip.” Her words tumbled out as she drove back to the beach house. But why would Bryan offer to take her to such a fancy place? After three years of dating, was he finally ready to propose? A girl could hope.

No matter what, she’d show Bryan that he mattered more to her than a dog she’d met less than twenty-four hours ago—even if Tanner did pull at her heartstrings.

2

Bryan Miller bent over the student’s desk, attempting to help the eleven-year-old girl with a math problem. He glanced at his watch. Almost time for morning recess. Good. The kids were antsy.

“I still don’t understand it.” The ponytailed child’s voice hitched.

The recess bell rang.

The children slammed shut their math books, scurried to grab a snack, and rushed to be first in line at the door, a few shoving and jockeying for position. Some days, thirty wiggly eleven-year-olds were too much to handle. “Chelsea, go outside and get some fresh air. We’ll work on this during lunch.”

“Okay.” Chelsea smiled, stood from her chair with a loud scrape, and weaved her way to the large trashcan filled with balls of various sizes. She tucked the black-and-white soccer ball under her arm.

Bryan let out a breath. If only the girl cared about her studies as much as sports. “All right, kids, no pushing. Jack, Cameron, and Tyler, the end of the line, please.”

“Aww. But, Mr. Miller, I was here first,” Tyler said.

Bryan shook his head. “I saw the whole thing. You sure you want to go that route?”

Tyler hung his head and followed Jack and Cameron to the back of the line.

“Remember to throw your trash away. The janitors have been complaining about how much garbage they’ve had to pick up. Go on now.” Bryan swung the classroom door open wide, and the kids filed out, gaining speed once they hit the asphalt.

During recess, he needed a few minutes to relax and think about his date tonight with Ashley. He’d hoped to pick up the simple yet elegant half-carat diamond ring at lunch, but now he’d have to wait ’til after school. It suited him fine. Chelsea needed help with math.

He sat in the chair by his desk and laced his fingers behind his neck. He couldn’t fall asleep last night after talking with Ashley on the phone. A dog had barked in the background, and she admitted she’d found another stray. He loved animals as much as the next guy, but did she have to be a magnet for homeless creatures?

Now that he thought about it, Ashley had cancelled on him a couple of times in the past few weeks when volunteers at the animal shelter didn’t show up. It had rankled, but tonight, he might welcome more time to contemplate one of the biggest decisions of his life. Call him chicken, but proposing to Ashley would take every ounce of courage.

Bryan snagged an apple from his sack lunch and took a bite.

Truth was, any man would be lucky to have a wonderful woman like Ashley by his side. And tonight, he’d prove how much he loved her by putting a ring on her finger. After they married, they’d get a dog or a cat, whatever she liked, and in a year or so, they’d start a family. A smile curved his mouth as he considered the idea and the intimacy needed to make that happen.

“Bryan, I have a note for you. Seems urgent.” The secretary’s voice boomed through the intercom.

Bryan sat up straight. “I’ll be right down.” Ten more minutes and recess would be over. He tossed his apple core in the trashcan with a thud and hustled to the office.

Linda, the school secretary, was busy on another call when he walked in. She handed him a pink slip of paper as she carried on her conversation. The woman had an amazing ability to multitask.

Bryan glanced at the note. Susan wanted him to call her right away. Apparently, Madison, his fifteen-year-old niece, was in trouble again. He let out a sigh and ran a hand through his hair.

“Not good, huh?” Linda put down the phone. “High school is a tough age. Anything I can do? I’ve been through it with my own kids three times.”

As much as he appreciated Linda’s kind words, family matters were private. In fact, he was surprised his sister would call the school when she could’ve easily left a message on his cell phone. He pulled it from his pocket. Five missed calls—all from his sister.

“Thanks, Linda. Madison’s going through a rough patch right now …” He let the rest go unsaid. The secretary didn’t need to know Susan’s husband left and the family was falling apart. His parents didn’t even know what was going on. They viewed life in black and white, right and wrong. The bottom line was, Susan didn’t want to disappoint them and relied on Bryan for emotional support. In a way, he was honored that his sister trusted him. It made him feel good, important. But if he was being completely honest, it made him slightly uncomfortable.

Growing up, he found himself on the receiving end of his parents’ scrutiny more often than not while his sister skated by. Even as a young adult, he’d had to prove he was capable of making the right decision. Finally, now that his life appeared to be on track, he could help his sister deal with hers. He straightened his shoulders at that revelation, slipped out of the office, and punched in Susan’s number.

She answered on the first ring. “There you are.” Her words came out in a rush.

“What’s going on?”

“The high school called. They’re concerned about Madi. She went to her first and second classes, but then her teacher overheard her talking about leaving school. Sure enough, she didn’t show up for third period.”

“The day’s not over.”

“Madi told me about a boy she liked. I bet she’s with him right now. I can only imagine what she’s up to.”

“Don’t get carried away—”

“But my daughter’s skipping school. And I have no idea who she’s with and what she’s doing.”

“Maybe she’ll be back—”

“It’s all my fault. If Paul and I weren’t divorcing, Madi wouldn’t be lashing out.”

Bryan leaned back against the side of the brick building. “Don’t blame yourself. I’m sure this is an isolated incident.”

“But it’s not the first time she’s gotten in trouble. She’s had a handful of detentions in the last couple of weeks and picked a fight with a girl who accidentally bumped into her on the way to class. When Madi’s home, she’s like a bomb waiting to explode, and I feel like I need to duck and cover.”

“Wow, I didn’t know it had gotten this bad.”

“And I did something I shouldn’t have done. I searched Madi’s room and found her journal. She’s angry, not only with Paul for walking out on us, but also with me for not doing everything possible to make him stay. She wrote that I should’ve promised to take better care of myself, to lose weight, and buy new clothes. Can you believe that?”

The bell rang above his head, signaling the end of recess.

Bryan wanted to continue the conversation because his sister clearly needed someone to talk to, but thirty kids counted on him. “Look, sis. I’ve got to go. I’ll call you back the next chance I get—”

“Do you mind helping me with the boys if she doesn’t come home on the bus?”

“You know I’ll be there.” As he said the words, he prayed Madi would do the right thing and go back to school. He had Ashley’s diamond ring to pick up, a proposal to rehearse, and a bouquet of red roses to purchase.

“I’m so glad I can count on you.” Susan sniffed. “Life’s been hard.”

“I’m sorry, Suz. Gotta run. Keep me posted.”

“I will. Thank you, bro.”

Bryan tucked the cell in his back pocket and hustled back to his classroom.

Madi. The once sweet, caring girl had changed over the last few months since his brother-in-law moved out of the house. Must be rough.

But did she have to pick the day he planned to propose to leave the school campus?

With Ashley’s diamond ring in his front jeans’ pocket, Bryan drove to Susan’s house to watch his nephews. His hands grew clammy. The last time he purchased an engagement ring, his heart had been broken in two.

He pulled up to the curb.

“Thank you so much.” Susan met him on the walk with quick steps, her purse swinging from her shoulder and keys jingling in hand. A concerned look etched her face. “The boys are inside. I’ll be home as soon as I can. Oh, and if I’m not back in a couple of hours, I have canned soup in the pantry and fixings for grilled cheese—”

“Remember,” Bryan said, “I have a date with Ashley and reservations at six.” Until his girlfriend said yes, he wouldn’t tell a soul about the proposal, not even his sister. Especially not his sister.

“I’m sure I’ll be home by then.” Susan rushed off toward her car.

“I hope so,” Bryan called after her. As his sister drove down the street, he dug his hand in his jeans’ pocket and felt the velvet box.

“Uncle Bryan, do you want to help me build a fort?” ten-year-old Ethan called from the doorway.

He’d rather kick up his feet and relax a while, but that wasn’t going to happen this afternoon. As tired as he was from being around kids all day, he loved his nephews and snagged the opportunity to spend time with them. “Sure, buddy. Where are the ‘twinadoes’?” His eight-year-old nephews, Zachary and Dylan, were a handful, for sure.

“Oh, they’re upstairs.” Ethan stepped aside, and Bryan entered the house.

The dishes were piled high in the sink and on the kitchen counter, and the trash bin overflowed onto the floor. A selection of quilts and blankets covered the kitchen table and hung over the sides, creating a fort underneath.

“Want to play a board game? I have a whole stack.” Ethan pulled back one of the blankets, displaying the mound.

“I’ll play you Battleship, but I’d better check on your brothers first. Why don’t you set it up, and I’ll be right back?”

Ethan’s eyes lit up, and he crawled under the table. The boy was mellow and more of a bookworm, the opposite of Bryan as a child, yet Bryan appreciated his quiet nature.

Climbing the stairs, he dodged the toys and paraphernalia that littered the steps. Since when had his sister stopped cleaning the house?

Hushed voices sounded when he reached the top.

“There he is.”

“Let’s get him.”

Seconds later, tiny marshmallows pelted his chest, arms, and legs and whizzed past his head. Zachary and Dylan’s laughter echoed down the hall.

Bryan was the one who’d purchased the marshmallow shooters. His sister had warned him many times not to buy her sons gifts that would drive her crazy. He laughed. Turnabout was fair play.

“I’m going to get you two.” Bryan raced toward the kids’ bedroom. As he rounded the corner, more marshmallows hit him and whooshed past. “You know the more ammo you fire, the bigger mess you’ll have to clean up.”

The boys ran to hide in their closet.

Bryan lunged forward, picking up marshmallows as he went. “Ready or not, here I come.” He slid the closet door open and opened fire on Zachary and Dylan, who were crouching down on the floor.

“Okay, we give up. Don’t we, Zach?” Dylan laughed.

“Never,” Zachary said.

Bryan reached in and tickled the boy’s belly. With his other hand, he grabbed Dylan and hugged him tight to his chest. “You boys are no match for the king.”

Zachary slid past, jumped up, and aimed his marshmallow shooter at Bryan’s chest, a sinister grin stretching across his face. “Let him go, or I’ll shoot.”

Bryan raised his hands. “Okay, okay. Don’t shoot.”

Dylan grabbed his gun. “Let’s put him in jail.”

Bryan raised a brow. “Jail?”

“Madi’s room. That’s what she calls it.” Zachary’s shoulders slumped a bit. “She’s never home, so …”

Dylan dropped onto one of the twin beds and set his shooter on the floor, suddenly disinterested in the imaginary game they were playing. “Mom’s pretty mad at her for not coming home on the bus today.”

Ethan walked in holding one of the playing pieces from the Battleship game. “What’re you guys doing?”

“Oh,” Bryan said. “Sorry for taking so long—”

“We’re talking about Madi.” Zachary plopped down on the floor.

“I heard Mom talking on the phone to Dad,” Ethan said. “She asked if Madi could live with him, but he said something about it interfering with his new lifestyle, whatever that means.” His forehead creased.

Bryan let out a breath. How could he explain to the kids that people make mistakes, life-altering mistakes, when he didn’t understand himself the reason Paul left? Besides, Bryan wasn’t one to talk. During college, he’d messed up plenty. “I couldn’t say exactly, but it sounds like your dad is making some bad choices right now.”

“That’s what Mom said, too.” Ethan stared at the floor and let out a big sigh.

All their lives were affected by Paul’s abandonment. Bryan’s included. There had to be a way to cheer up his nephews. “How about we play some basketball after I whip Ethan in Battleship?”

“Then can we go out for hamburgers?” Dylan asked.

Zachary nodded. “And make ice cream sundaes?”

“One thing at a time, boys.” Bryan held up a hand. “I’m hoping your mom will be home by dinnertime. I have a date with Ashley.” He tucked his hand in his pocket to make sure the velvet box was still there.

“We’ll stay here while you play Battleship.” Zachary eyed his twin. “Won’t we, Dylan?”

Dylan grinned and nodded.

“Better pick up every last marshmallow.” Bryan rested a hand on Zachary’s shoulder and then guided Ethan to the door. “Looks like your mom has enough trouble keeping up with you guys. The place is a disaster.”

A half hour later, Bryan filled the dishwasher and emptied the trash. Ethan had won the game in record time, and they’d decided to surprise Susan by picking up the house. Ethan folded the blankets and placed them in the wicker basket.

“It’s too quiet,” Ethan said. “Whenever Mom can’t hear them, she sends me upstairs to check.”

“You stay here. I’ll go.” Bryan rushed up the stairs. The doors to all the bedrooms were open, except Madi’s. He leaned in to listen. What were those boys up to? He turned the knob, but the door was locked. “Open up.”

“We’re not done yet,” Zachary called.

“Not done with what?”

“Wait and see.” Dylan giggled.

“Boys, open the door now.”

The click of the lock sounded, and the door swung open.

Bryan’s jaw went slack. The boys had drawn black vertical lines on the walls all around the room. They’d stripped Madi’s bed and stuffed her things in the closet.

“We’re making a jail,” Dylan said.

“Yeah.” Zachary smiled. “Madi should feel right at home.”

Bryan squeezed his eyes shut then opened them. “You didn’t use permanent markers, did you?”

Zachary looked at the marker and shrugged.

Ethan peeked his head into the room. “You guys are going to be in so much trouble!”

Bryan rubbed a temple. He couldn’t have said it better. Single parenting was tough. His sister had her hands full. He glanced at his watch. Five fifteen. Susan better hurry. Otherwise, he’d stand up his girlfriend on the night he was going to ask her to be his wife. That was, if he had time to practice his proposal. He wasn’t going to ask cold turkey. She deserved better.

“Boys, you’d better put the room back the way it was. Saturday, I’ll come by and help the two of you repaint the walls.”

His cell vibrated in his pocket, and he glanced at the screen. Susan. He answered the call.

“Bryan, I’ve been everywhere and can’t find her.” Susan’s voice shook. “None of her friends know where she is. I’m heading to the police station right now. I have a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach. I’m sorry, but I don’t think I’ll be home by six. You mind calling Ashley? She can hang out with you and the boys until I get home.”

Yes, he did mind, but his sister’s tone said she was scared out of her mind. He had a feeling his niece was at the mall. Or at a friend’s house. Of course, he didn’t know that for sure. “Do what you need to do, sis.”

“Thank you. You’re the best.”

He ended the call and let out a deep breath. His planned date and proposal might not happen. Why did he feel an odd sense of relief?

3

Ashley clipped the single pearl necklace her grandmother had given her around her neck and checked her reflection in the mirror. Not bad. Her little black dress clung to her trim figure and the teal cashmere sweater added a touch of sophistication. Now if she could get her hair to cooperate. Her auburn curls went down to her shoulders and had a mind of their own. She slipped her feet into high strappy sandals and dabbed perfume on her neck and wrists. Bryan would like the outfit. She was sure of it.

They’d talked for months about what it would be like to be married and how many kids they each wanted. Bryan told her he’d like four, while she would be content with two. He loved his house in the country, while she preferred to live close to the beach. Teaching afforded him time off in the summers to get work done on his property, and on her days off, she liked to travel up the coast. They had different interests, but somehow it didn’t matter. They loved each other, and he would never leave her. Never. A smile curved her mouth as she peered out the front bedroom window looking for her handsome date.

How could she have considered cancelling to search for a dog? Yes, Tanner was friendly and adorable, but he’d find his way into someone’s life and heart. She was sure of it. The Labrador was probably curled up on someone’s couch right now, and she needn’t worry about him. Of course, if Tanner was brought into the wrong clinic, he could be euthanized.

Her coworkers at the animal clinic had shared the gut-wrenching stories about euthanasia. Before entering the room, the animals resisted going in, and many didn’t simply drift off to sleep never to reawaken. They’d yelp and try with all their might to get out of the straps, releasing them from death’s hold. No animal should have to endure that.

She imagined Tanner crouching under the trestle, wet and cold. She worked her lip and folded her arms across her chest. Oh, who was she kidding? Stray dogs died all the time, and if there were a chance she could save Tanner, she would.

Hurry up, Bryan! Before she did something she’d regret … like cancel her date and the slight possibility he might propose.

Bryan pulled his extended cab pickup truck into the driveway.

Ashley let out a breath and waited for the doorbell to ring before opening the door.

Bryan greeted her with a kiss. “Hi, honey. Change of plans.” His three nephews stood beside him on the threshold.

She stepped aside so they could enter.

Bryan motioned to the boys. “Go out back and give us a few minutes alone.”

Ethan tugged on Zachary’s sweatshirt, and the twins followed him through the small dining room and out the sliding glass door to the backyard.

Bryan sent her an appreciative smile. “You look beautiful.”

“Thanks.” She shrugged a shoulder. “I wish I could say the same for you. You look exhausted. And you’re not wearing a suit.”

“I would’ve called you earlier.” Bryan ran his hand through his dark hair. “It’s been a crazy day.”

She reached for his hand. “What’s going on?”

“Susan called the school office. Madison’s been giving her a lot of trouble, and this afternoon she didn’t come home on the bus. Susan asked me to watch the boys while she went out looking for Madi. She’s done this kind of stuff before. Otherwise, my sister would’ve headed straight to the police. She finally did report her missing. Ash, I’m concerned. My sister has enough on her plate with Paul leaving …”

Ashley stepped closer and wrapped her arms around his neck. She planted a kiss on the side of his jaw and held him close. “I love it that you’re such a caring brother.”

“But our date, it was going to be special.” Bryan rested his chin on the top of her head then pulled back. “You wouldn’t want to go out for hamburgers with the boys and me, would you?”

“You know I like your nephews, right?”

Bryan nodded. “But …?”

“But those twins are a handful, and honestly there’s something I need to take care of.”

“Scrapbooking already, huh?”

“No, I haven’t started yet.” Ashley bit the inside of her cheek. “Remember that dog I told you about last night?”

“The one you planned on bringing into the shelter this morning?”

“Yes, that’s the one. He took off, and I was hoping to search for him—”

“Now?” Bryan’s brows puckered. “But you’ve got to eat. Come with us and look for him in the morning.”

Sounded as if he’d had a rough day, and she’d rather not start a fight. But how could she make him understand that unless they were going to be alone, she’d rather hunt down Tanner?

A crashing noise sounded from somewhere in the backyard. Ashley raced toward the sliding glass door, and Bryan followed.

Dylan was on the ground next to the big metal bin she used to wash the dog, which lay sideways on the cement patio, along with a couple of broken pots. Dirt and flowers lay in a haphazard mound.

Zachary pointed to Dylan. “He did it.”

“It was an accident,” Dylan said. “I was running and tripped.”

Ashley glanced across the yard at Ethan lying in the hammock with his eyes closed and ear buds in his ears, totally oblivious to what was going on.

Bryan helped up Dylan. “Ask Ashley where she keeps the broom. You two are cleaning up this mess.”

“Don’t worry about it,” Ashley said. “I’ll do it.”

“We’ll need to stop by the store to at least replace what you broke.”

Dylan’s bottom lip quivered. “But I don’t have any money.”

“We’ll work out something later. Come on, boys. Let’s get out of here before something else happens. Sorry, Ash.”

Could she search for Tanner with a clear conscience when Bryan obviously had his hands full? It wasn’t as if he planned on taking care of his nephews tonight. “If you give me a minute to change, I’ll go to dinner with you and the boys.”

Bryan’s shoulders visibly relaxed. “I appreciate that, but after what they’ve done today, they don’t deserve to go out. I’m taking them home.”

“You sure?”

Lines etched Bryan’s forehead. “Positive.”

Ashley walked Bryan and his nephews to the front door.

“Bet I can beat you to Uncle Bryan’s truck.” Dylan took off down the walk toward the vehicle parked against the curb.

“You sure you don’t want me to come with you?” Ashley raised a brow.

“I know you, Ash.” Bryan leaned over and kissed her cheek. “The whole time you’d be wishing you were scoping out the neighborhood for that dog.”

Caught. Yes, Bryan knew her well.

“I know you love animals, but are you sure you’re not searching for something else?” His question caught her off guard.

“Like what?”

Bryan shook his head. “I don’t know.”

“Call me tonight?”

“The minute Susan walks through the front door.” Bryan gave her a half-hearted smile. “These kids wear me out. I don’t know how she does it.”

“And you’re the one who wants four,” Ashley teased.

“Yeah,” Bryan said, “but they’ll be ours.”

It was ten o’clock before the garage door opened, relieving Bryan from his babysitting duties. His nephews had gone to bed a half hour ago, and he lay in the recliner watching an old John Wayne movie.

“Take a shower and go straight to bed.” Susan instructed her daughter as they walked into the family room.

Madi walked past without glancing his way. Heavy footsteps pounded up the stairs.

Bryan pushed to a seated position. “Where’d you find her?”

“Pacific Garden Mall coming out of the movie theater.” Susan dropped onto the sofa. “She was with that boy I told you about earlier.”

“How’d you know where to look?”

“I finally got one of Madi’s friends to fess up. Madi had texted her, bragging about having a date with a high school senior.”

“I’m glad you found her. Are you going to call Paul?”

“He’s in Las Vegas on a business trip.” Susan shook her head and spoke through clenched teeth. “He sounded casual and relaxed when I called. Says Madi’s going through a phase.”

A phase? Didn’t Paul care about his daughter? Bryan balled his fists and then cracked his knuckles one finger at a time. “But she was missing.”

“Some father, huh?”

“I don’t know what to say. He’s definitely not thinking of anyone but himself right now. Maybe he’s having a midlife crisis.”

Susan hugged a sofa pillow to her chest. “I don’t know. I can’t figure him out. You, on the other hand, have been wonderful. Thank you for watching the boys. How were they?”

Bryan wanted to be honest, but after the night Susan had, maybe it was better if he told her in the morning, unless—

A scream pierced the air. “Mom!” Madi’s voice echoed down the hall, giving him no option but to tell Susan the truth.

“Before you go up there, Zach and Dylan were up to their shenanigans. They drew black lines on Madi’s walls.”

“They did what?” The corners of Susan’s mouth fell and her brows puckered. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”

“No. I’m not. They said Madi keeps saying she’s in jail, so they decided to make her one. Hey, if you have any leftover paint, I’ll stop by tomorrow and help the boys repaint the room.”

“You don’t have to do that. I’ll deal with it—”

“Mom!” Madi cut into their conversation once again.

“I better go talk with her.” Susan stood. “Mind seeing yourself out?”

“Not at all, but do you need help talking with Madi before I go?”

“No, but thank you. You’ve done enough for one night.”

Bryan gave Susan a brotherly hug. “Take care of yourself and call me if you need anything.”

“It may be sooner than you’d like.”

“Anytime. I’m here for you.”

Bryan closed the door behind him and inhaled the cool night air, slowly at first, then releasing his breath in one quick whoosh. The day had gone vastly different than what he’d planned. He fingered the velvet box still in his pocket. He had a mind to go straight to Ashley’s house and propose on the spot, quick before he changed his mind or thought too hard about what he was going to do. Why not?

As much as he would like to get the proposal over with, he wanted it to be special, memorable, something he was proud to tell their future kids, and not rushed. After three years of dating, Ashley deserved a well thought out proposal. Plus, she might not be home. Tanner, was it? The thought irritated him like an unwanted hangnail. He had no right to be annoyed since she offered to go to dinner, yet he was. Ash, what are you really searching for?

Bryan slid behind the wheel of his truck and went straight home.

4

Saturday morning, Ashley spread a mound of photos across the kitchen table, her heart in her throat. The picket fence surrounding the house was only a couple feet high. No wonder Tanner jumped it and ran away.

There were many dogs in the animal shelter, and she hadn’t allowed herself to fall in love with any particular canine. But something in his brown soulful eyes had drawn her in, like a wayward sibling finding his home. She pushed the thought, and the dog, from her mind.

Ashley turned the photo of her grandmother over, looking for the inscription on the back. Graduating class 1957. Bobby socks, poodle skirts, gauzy scarves around necks. Her grandmother and her best friend, June, loved listening to Elvis Presley, Frankie Avalon, and Pat Boone and told Ashley and her siblings countless stories about how wonderful it was back then.

“Life was simpler, more carefree,” she’d say. “We’d do the jitterbug and dance the night away.” Grandma stood and wiggled her hips, her arms swaying. When Ashley asked where June was now, Grandma’s eyes filled with tears and she waved her off. Ashley didn’t want to press. Her grandmother, on the other hand, lived in a retirement community in Arizona where the drier weather was better for her arthritis.

Ashley opened the scrapbook marked “childhood years” and tucked the photo toward the back. She’d fix it to the page once she collected the photos for this specific book to place them in order.

“Anyone home?” her sister Lauren called through the open door before walking inside.

“Coming to help?” Ashley tossed her all-business sister a grin, knowing full well that wasn’t why Lauren was here. Her sister worked at a real estate company, and part of her job was to oversee the beach house.

“Very funny.” She set her purse on the table and unbuttoned her lightweight blazer. She set it on the nearest chair. “I wanted to know if you and Bryan plan to come to the family dinner tomorrow night.”

Ashley shrugged a shoulder. “When have we not come for Sunday dinner?”

“Just checking.” Lauren pulled a piece of gum out of her purse. “Want one?”

“No, thanks—”

“Is this Grandma?” Lauren picked up a black and white photo of a young girl sitting on a pony.

“I think so. What’s it say on the back?”

“Peggy, 1944. Grandma must be around five years old in this shot. Isn’t she cute?”

Ashley nodded. “Hey, look at this one. She must be around three here.”

“I love her curls. And her cheeks are so chubby.” Lauren laughed. “You looked kind of like her when you were her age.”

How could she? Ashley didn’t have an ounce of Stevens’ blood in her. “Lots of girls look alike.”

“I guess that’s how I remember you.”

“The full cheeks? Grandma’s were naturally chubby. Mine were from the medication.” Ashley didn’t want to go down this road of conversation. She rubbed her hand over her upper right thigh, the scar from the rhabdomyosarcoma now as much a part of her body as her fingers and toes.

“You were adorable. We all thought so.” Lauren’s voice softened.

Ashley had been told countless times of how every member of the family wanted to adopt her. Lauren had previously been the youngest Stevens child at ten years old, while their older sister, Tori, had been a budding teenager. “You and Tori were just jealous you couldn’t rock the bald look like I could.” Ashley lightened her tone.

“Remember when we tucked our hair into knit caps? Grandma thought we buzzed our heads.” Lauren grinned. “Oh, and the time we glued a bow to your bald head because you wanted to look pretty?”

Lauren didn’t mean any harm by the trip down memory lane, but Ashley couldn’t handle any more talk about knit caps, bald heads, and glued bows. “You sure you don’t want to help? I’ve got lots of boxes to go through …”

“No, that’s all right.” Lauren drew circles on the table as if her mind were somewhere else.

“Is there another reason you’re here, because I’ve got lots of work to do?” Ashley hadn’t meant to be rude, but Lauren was definitely slowing down her progress.

“No, no reason.”

“You did take off your coat,” Ashley prodded.

“Can’t a girl come over and visit with her sister?”

“Sure.” As long as you don’t bring up the past, I’m good. She’d always gotten along with Lauren. Why hide her feelings now? Her sister was discerning and could sniff out a problem a mile away. Ashley stood, putting a little distance between them. “How about lunch? I could whip up some roast beef sandwiches.”

Lauren grimaced. “I ate before I came.”

“Are you here because your husband’s watching baseball? Are the guys over?”

Lauren shook her head.

“Did you two have a fight?”

“No, no. Nothing like that.”

Ashley thrust a hand on her hip. “Are you going to make me keep guessing, or are you going to tell me what’s going on?”

“I promised Sean I wouldn’t say anything until Sunday night—”

“At dinner.” Ashley filled in. She nudged her sister’s arm. “But you’re dying to tell me.”

“Oh, Ash, I wish I could.” Lauren bit her lower lip as if stopping herself from saying anything further.

“Okay, now you’re scaring me.” Ashley dropped into the nearest chair.

“Don’t be scared. Everything will be fine.”

“If you say so.” Unless her sister shared what was on her mind, any minor crisis could wait. She’d see her Sunday for dinner. Besides, she couldn’t take on her sister’s problem when she had plenty of her own. She leaned over and gave Lauren a hug. “Things will work out. They usually do, right?”

Lauren nodded and then shrugged into her jacket. “I’ve got to go. Need to run by Tori’s shop and make sure she’s coming Sunday.”

Maybe Ashley would give Tori a call at her florist shop to see if she could wiggle the truth out about Lauren’s secret.

“Count on me to be at Mom and Dad’s tomorrow night.”

“Thanks.” Lauren hugged Ashley once more before heading out the door.

Fifteen minutes later, the roast beef sandwich didn’t satisfy Ashley like she thought it would. Instead, it left a sour taste in her mouth, like the conversation she’d had with her sister.

Her adoptive sister.

She was close to Lauren, like she imagined biological sisters to be, but there were also moments when Ashley felt like the foreigner in the family. The one who came by default. The one whose biological mother didn’t love her enough to see her illness through to the end.

Moments like this, Ashley would take deep breaths and the anxious feeling would slowly disappear. Not this time. She had to “take the bull by the horns,” as Grandma would say, and face the truth head on. She was an unwanted child, abandoned until the Stevens family came along. She owed everything to them—her health, her physical and emotional wellbeing, her sanity. Without the Stevens family, who knew where she’d be?

Could she look at her cancer photos without the utmost love for the people who accepted her, scarred leg and all? If she was able to get past the hurt, she could look at the pictures with fresh eyes. Eyes that saw love instead of loss.

Before she changed her mind, Ashley swallowed the last bite of her sandwich with a swig of her lemonade and climbed into the attic. She opened the trunk and peered inside, searching for the box marked ‘Ashley.’ Once she found it, she thumbed through the photos and stared at the faces of those surrounding her—a gentle look of a mother, beaming siblings, protective arms of a father. Family. The photos in her hand proved her adoptive parents, her foster parents at the time, had thought she might not survive. A new puppy, a trip to Hawaii, Christmas in October—all things to create memories before a child with cancer dies.

But she didn’t die.

She laughed out loud at the next few photos. A silly grin. A face smeared with dirt. A new dress on her birthday. All photos right after the adoption was finalized, and she became a Stevens. Those were happy times, the happiest of her young life.

She sat back and flipped to the next photo, half expecting to see pictures from her elementary and junior high years. Instead her breath came out in short puffs and moisture formed on the palms of her hands.

Where had this one come from?

Ashley focused on the toddler sitting beside her in the red wagon. The small girl’s face looked so much like her own. Ashley didn’t recognize her, but the resemblance was uncanny, too strong to be someone unrelated, but it didn’t make sense. She didn’t have a biological sibling.

A niggling stirred inside, Bryan’s question at the forefront of her mind. Are you sure you’re not searching for something else … Was she searching for something else?

“Or someone else?”

She brought the photo to her chest, placing it over her heart.

Bryan wiped his sweaty brow with a sleeve. He pushed the mower into the shed, his large lot freshly mowed. Manual labor always brought a sense of satisfaction. He’d do some weeding next in the vegetable garden and flowerbeds, but first, he’d grab a glass of something cold. He stepped inside the kitchen through the side door and grabbed a tall glass of ice water, gulping it down quickly.

His two-bedroom, one-bath home on Freedom Boulevard was small, barely 1,000 square feet, but it had all the amenities he could ask for, even a fireplace for those cold nights when the fog chilled his bones. It was big enough for two people, but not the kind of house where he’d consider having a brood of kids. It worried him some that he and Ashley wouldn’t be able to raise a family here unless they remodeled and added on. But that would take more money than he could possibly earn or save in his line of work.

Frankly, when he bought the place, he thought he was going to be a bachelor forever, never dreaming he’d meet a woman like Ashley at the singles’ group at church. He remembered the day she walked in, her auburn curls framing her beautiful face and those shining blue-green eyes that stared back at him. From their first conversation, there had been an easy way about her that calmed him, made him feel confident in the person God made him to be instead of the disappointment his father claimed him for.

Sure, he and Ashley were opposites in many ways and liked different activities but most of the time, they complemented one another and challenged each other to try new things—like the time she encouraged him to go skydiving on his birthday or when he prodded her to sign up for a summer photography class at the community college.

He tugged on the kitchen drawer and pulled out the velvet box with Ashley’s diamond ring, thankful he hadn’t rushed off to her grandmother’s beach house last night. If he’d gotten there and her station wagon had been gone it would have only frustrated him more after the kind of day he’d had. Another quarrel about missing or lost animals wasn’t worth the price his relationship would pay for something he already sensed she was doing—hunting down another stray.

He slipped the box back into the drawer. No, he’d form a new plan, a better plan for tomorrow. They’d go to church, like they’d done together for the past three years, and at dinner, he’d propose. That way she could show her whole family the diamond ring at her family’s weekly Sunday night feast. His pulse raced. If he couldn’t imagine proposing when it was just the two of them, how could he pop the question in front of her whole family?

His neck muscles tightened as he snatched his work gloves from the counter and headed toward the back door to finish his weekly chores. The trill of his cell phone on the counter stopped him. Susan’s number flashed across the screen.

Instead of hearing his sister’s voice, ten-year-old Ethan was on the line. “Uncle Bryan, can you come over?” The boy’s voice was barely above a whisper as if he didn’t want anyone to know he was on the phone.

“What’s going on, bud?” Bryan leaned against the counter, purposefully keeping his tone light.

“Mom and Madi are screaming at each other.” He expelled a long, ragged breath. “And Dylan and Zachary are hiding in their closet. I’m scared, too.”

Poor kids. Parents and teenagers had their moments. Shoot, he’d had plenty of arguments with his father over the years. He never understood how to please his old man until he moved out of the house, landed a job, and purchased a home of his own. No matter what, Susan ranked number one in Dad’s eyes. If he only knew about his sister’s current situation, he might not consider her the perfect child.

Better not keep Ethan waiting. “I’ll be there in ten minutes.”

The line went dead.

5

Bryan pulled up to the curb and cut the engine before glancing at his watch. 1:42 p.m. He had shaved three minutes off his usual time to get across town to his sister’s two-story home in Soquel. Thankfully, he avoided getting a ticket, not that he didn’t deserve one.

He stepped out of his car and spotted Ethan by the front window, peering outside. His nephew ran out the front door to greet him. “That was fast.”

“You called me, so here I am.” Bryan tucked his keys in his pocket and ruffled the boy’s hair.

Ethan tugged on his arm, pulling him toward the house. “Mom’s crying in her bedroom, and Madi locked herself in the downstairs bathroom.”

That bad, huh? “Where’re the twins?”

“Mom sent them down to the neighbor’s house to play with Ava.” Ethan crinkled his nose. “I told Mom I didn’t want to play with a girl, so she let me stay home.”

Bryan climbed the porch steps two at a time. He didn’t have a clue what he’d say to either Susan or Madi or how he could help at a time like this, but he’d do whatever he could to ease Ethan’s concern and support his sister. Madi was definitely out of control.

“Hey, bud, keep an eye on the bathroom door, okay? Let me know if Madi comes out. I’m going upstairs to talk with your mom.”

Ethan rocked back on his heels, his bottom teeth working his upper lip. “Okay.”

“You’re a good brother, Ethan.” Bryan patted the boy’s shoulder then entered the house and took off toward the stairs.

He never imagined Paul would leave his family. The six foot three, two-hundred-pound man was a pillar of strength when Bryan had gone through a rough patch right after college and had leaned on Paul for support. Paul was the one who had led Bryan to Christ, telling him how much God loved him and forgave him for the choices he’d made. Now six years later, it was time for him to help his sister deal with the aftermath of Paul’s mistakes. The irony of it all.

Bryan rapped on Susan’s door. “Susan, it’s me, Bryan. Can I come in?”

Nothing.

Bryan expected this reaction from Madi, but from Susan? She had leaned on him yesterday, sharing exactly what was on her heart and mind. Why clam up now when she clearly needed a shoulder to cry on?

“Suz, please open up.” Bryan leaned a hand against the door. “I can’t imagine what it’s like single parenting, but I’m here to help you.”

The door finally flew open and Susan startled. “Bryan, what are you doing here?”

“I’ve been standing here the last few minutes trying to get you to open up. Didn’t you hear me?”

“No, I was in the bathroom.” She straightened. “What brings you by?”

Really? She was going to play this game? “Oh, I don’t know. Thought I’d come see how you guys are doing after yesterday’s”—Do I dare use the word?—“craziness?”

Susan sniffed and folded her arms across her chest. “We’re fine. Nothing I can’t handle.”

So that was it. She didn’t want him to know how much she really needed his help. “Where’s Madi?”

“Somewhere around.” Susan brushed past him and moved toward the stairs. “The boys and I painted her room this morning. Want to see?”

Maybe Ethan had overreacted. The tightening in his stomach relaxed a little. “Sure, if you’d like to show me.”

The steely gaze and firm set of Susan’s jaw was either pure determination or a façade. At the moment, Bryan had no clue which one it was. Susan turned the doorknob. The windows were open and the paneled curtains fluttered in the breeze.

“I thought I smelled paint when I first arrived. Hey, it looks good.” He wasn’t going to tell her that he could still see the faint lines where the boys drew with their markers.

“I know it needs another coat, but at the moment, I’m spent—”

Ethan ran up the stairs. “Mom, the bathroom door’s still locked. Madi won’t come out.”

Susan’s forehead creased, and her mouth turned down. “I don’t know what to do with that girl.”

“Here, let me try.” Bryan gave his sister’s shoulder a gentle squeeze. “C’mon, Ethan.”

Instead of heading toward the family room, he led his young nephew out the front door to the side of the house, the hardscape crunching under his feet.

“Where are we going?” Ethan followed so close that he nearly banged into him when Bryan stopped in front of the opened bathroom window and peered inside.

Madi was gone.

Susan rushed over to where he and Ethan stood. “Don’t tell me she’s not in there.”

“I’m sorry.” Ethan’s eyes widened. “I didn’t hear her go out. I promise.”

Susan wrapped an arm around the boy’s shoulder. “It’s not your fault, buddy.” Her voice shook. “If anyone’s to blame, it’s me. I shouldn’t have yelled at her.” She swiped at her damp cheeks.

Bryan held firm to Susan’s shoulders. “I’ll find her. You stay here. I’m sure she hasn’t gone far.” He turned to Ethan. “Stay with your mom.”

As Bryan drove through the neighborhood, he looked up and down the neighboring streets before turning right on to Soquel Drive. He forgot to ask Susan what type of car Madi’s boyfriend drove in case he spotted it. But knowing Madi the way he did, he wouldn’t be surprised if she walked to the mall. The girl had an obsession with clothes.

A red light stopped him cold. Bryan’s left leg jostled, and he tapped the steering wheel waiting for the light to change. How was he going to find Madi sitting here?

His mind drifted. He felt sorry for his sister having to raise a teenager and three boys on her own. Her husband was of no help, and his parents had no idea what was going on. They wouldn’t understand Susan’s need for assistance. Instead, they might lecture her on what divorce did to kids and make her feel worse than she already did. Bryan didn’t want to snitch to his parents about Susan and Paul’s marital problems, but something had to change or else he might.

Yet it wasn’t that long ago when his dad lectured him on what a mess he was making of his life. Bryan wouldn’t wish his father’s wrath on anyone, least of all his sensitive sister.

The light turned green, and Bryan hit the gas. The tires made a screeching sound, and he winced. He’d better let up, or he’d be the one in trouble.

His gaze darted right and left as he watched the people going in and out of the small shops lining the street. Where would a fifteen-year-old girl go? Another light stopped him before he turned left on 41st Avenue toward the Capitola Mall.

His cell phone buzzed in his pocket. Had Madi returned home? Please, Lord, let it be good news.

Bryan stuck in his earpiece and answered the call.

“Bryan, it’s Lauren.”

Why was Ashley’s sister calling? She’d only contacted him by phone once before when Ashley’s dad had fallen off a ladder and ended up in the hospital with a broken leg. But that was a year ago. He couldn’t handle more family troubles. Not when he had a missing niece and a troubled sister. “Hey, Lauren. What’s up?”

“Calling to make sure you’ll be there tomorrow night at the weekly Stevens’ dinner.”

“I plan to be. Why? What’s going on?”

“You’ll find out tomorrow night. See you at six?”

“I’ll be there.”

What was that about? Odd. He’d call Ashley tonight and find out what she knew. Maybe Lauren’s husband got a promotion. He’d been talking about wanting his boss’s job since his manager spoke about moving and starting over. Must be stressful to be a manager of an advertising firm. Bryan shrugged it off. He’d find out soon enough. Right now, all that mattered was finding Madi.

A girl wearing cut-off shorts and a red T-shirt was cutting through the large parking lot of Home Depot. Her long brown hair and slow gait looked familiar. Very familiar. Madi’s head was down and her thumbs moved quickly, working the letters on her cell phone. Probably texting a friend.

Bryan turned his Ranger into the parking lot and cut the engine. Wouldn’t Madison be surprised to see him? He’d have to keep his cool if he had any chance of gaining her trust. He stepped out of his truck and called her name.

She jerked her head around, and her eyes darted back and forth. Was she going to talk with him or run?

Bryan dug his hands into his jean pockets and approached her slowly. “Hey, Magpie.”

Her furrowed brows relaxed a little at the childhood nickname. “Hi, Uncle Bryan. I thought you were my mom for a second. Or did she send you?” she curled her upper lip and spat out the last five words.

“No, she didn’t.” He wasn’t going to tell her that Ethan, her ten-year-old brother, called him. “I was at your house, but you probably already know that.”

“I saw your truck—”

“When you sneaked through the bathroom window and took off?” He kept his voice even.

The muscle in Madi’s lower jaw flexed. “You don’t know what it’s like at home. Mom’s mad at me all the time. I can’t do anything right.”

“Running away every time you’re frustrated won’t help—”

“My dad obviously doesn’t care. And my mom doesn’t have time for me. She’s busy with work and the boys.” Madi’s cell phone dinged, signaling a text message. She glanced at the screen. “I’ve got to go. I’m meeting up with some friends.”

“Madi, you can’t. Your mom wants you home.”

“No! You don’t understand. I can’t go back there!” Madi backed away from him.

He stepped toward her. “Madi, please. We’ll work this out. I know it’s been hard ever since your dad …” How could he put it gently?

Madi’s eyes hardened. “I don’t want to talk about it.”

He didn’t either. Truth be known, Susan and Paul’s troubles shook his faith in marriage and put a question mark on his future with Ashley.

An old blue Chevy pulled up beside them, a male teenager behind the wheel. The passenger door swung open.

“Tell Mom I’ll be home in a few hours.”

Bryan stiffened. Should he let her get into the boy’s car? What right did he have to make her stay? He fumbled for the right words. “I don’t know if this is a good idea. Your mom already told me she didn’t want you spending time with—”

Madi rolled her eyes and got into the car. She didn’t so much as wave as they drove off.

Bryan tightened his grip around his keys. Next time, he’d say what was really on his mind. That she was being a total brat and needed to respect her mom. No, he wasn’t like his father. Harsh words said in anger wasn’t his style.

Once back at Susan’s house, he explained the situation.

Susan slumped in the recliner, her eyes red-rimmed, causing her to look far older than her years. “Madi won’t come home until dark. If then.”

Bryan took a seat across from her on the couch. “What makes you say that?”

“She told me this morning she was going to run away. That living anywhere would be better than living here.”

“Madi’s angry—”

“It’s more than that.” Susan shifted her gaze out the back window. “I wouldn’t blame her if she did move out. I would, too, if I were her.”

“Now you’re talking nonsense.”

“Bryan, I can’t take it anymore. Madi’s turning into someone I don’t recognize. I don’t even know who I am anymore.” Tears slipped down Susan’s cheeks, her gaze focused on something in the distance. “What’s happening to my family?”

Bryan leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees, hands clutched together. “I don’t know what to say, other than I’m here for you.”

Susan wiped her tears with shaky fingers and then looked directly at him. “You mean that?”

He could help, as long as it didn’t take over his life. Should he draw the line now? After all, he had plans—plans that included a proposal and an upcoming marriage. That’s if he ever got past the panic attacks and actually proposed.

Susan sat up straight in her chair and licked her lips. “Because I’ve been thinking long and hard about this, and I’ve come to a conclusion that would be the best for everyone in my family.”

His stomach clenched. Did he want to know? “And what would that be?”

“Can Madi move in with you?”

“What?” Bryan popped off the couch and held up a hand. “No, Madi can’t live with me.”

“Why not? You’re single, have a spare bedroom, and you said you wanted to help.” Susan stood and moved to the kitchen.

Bryan followed her. “You can talk to Mom and Dad. They’re retired, have a three-bedroom house, and have all the time in the world to drive Madi around to all her activities … never mind cooking and cleaning up after her.” Even as he said the words, there was no way Susan would go for it. He wouldn’t either. “Besides, I saw how much of a mess kids make. Did you notice we cleaned the house last night?”

“I’m not going to drag Mom and Dad into this. Yes, they’re retired, but they seem to be busier than ever. Dad’s always golfing, and Mom took a job at the church library. And don’t forget, they’re going on a month-long cruise next week.”

“But you’ve got to tell them about what’s been going on. You can’t make excuses for Paul forever.” Maybe then his parents would see Susan as a real person instead of the ideal they’d made her out to be.

“Who says I plan to keep anything from them?” Susan pulled a clear glass from the cabinet and filled it with water. “I just need some time to get used to this new arrangement before I open myself up to Mom and Dad’s scrutiny. They’re against divorce, you know.”

Yes, he knew full well his parents’ views about divorce. They were his as well, another reason he’d taken so long to propose to Ashley. He didn’t want to marry only to end up a statistic.

Susan took a swig of her water and took a minute to swallow before speaking. “I can hear Mom now, ‘Susan, dear, you need to get that man back. How are you going to support your children? You won’t be able to do it on your own. It’s better to deal with your marriage problems and stay together, no matter what it takes.’ ” Susan set her water glass down a little too harshly on the counter. Water sloshed over the side. “Bryan, I need to prove to myself that I can be a good single parent to my kids before I talk with Mom and Dad. I need a jump start, a little help to get me going. Know what I mean?”

Did he understand? His sister never had to endure the finger pointing like he had growing up. The only thing he remembered was over-the-top praise. His sister could do no wrong.

Whether or not he understood Susan’s feelings, how could he be the right person to take Madi? He didn’t know much about parenting kids, let alone raising a rebellious teenager. Bryan slumped against the cabinet. “Suz, I don’t know. You can’t hide your separation from Mom and Dad. And you definitely can’t expect your kids, or me for that matter, to keep a secret. Besides, Madi might not want to live with me. She didn’t listen when I asked her to come home—”

“That’s because it’s what I wanted. It has nothing to do with you and everything to do with me.” Susan softened her tone. “She blames me for Paul leaving. Honestly, she blames me for everything. I can’t seem to do anything right.”

“Madi said the same thing. Interesting, huh?” He followed Susan’s cue and got himself a water glass from the cabinet.

Susan went to the refrigerator and pulled out a pitcher of iced tea. “It shows you we need a break from each other. A chance to have some space and gather our thoughts. If we don’t, I fear our relationship will be ruined permanently. We’ve said some hurtful things …”

Bryan’s lips and tongue went dry like he’d swallowed a mouthful of sand. He didn’t know what to say, but something inside him couldn’t stand back and do nothing when his sister clearly was asking, no, begging, for help. He’d only just got to a place where he thought he was ready to make a commitment to Ashley. Could he risk it to help his sister and her family?

One problem.

Ashley wasn’t going to wait around for him forever. Family and friends were putting on the heat. Most people from church thought they were already married—or at least said they should be by now. He’d never had a solid answer of why it’d taken them so long to tie the knot. And now that he’d finally bought the ring …

The silence between him and Susan grew.

“Please think about it,” she ventured. “I promise I’ll talk with Mom and Dad as soon as they get back from their vacation. Right now, the wound is too fresh.”

Her reasoning was understandable, and yet he didn’t like keeping secrets, especially for something as big as Paul’s presumed infidelity.

Susan rubbed her nose. “Bryan, please. I really need your help. I don’t know what else to do.” Her voice cracked. Was she going to start crying again? He wouldn’t be able to take it.

“If I let Madi come home with me—”

“Yes?” Susan’s eyes brightened.

“She’d have to follow my rules.”

“Of course.”

“And help me around the house.”

“Totally understandable. She’s a good worker when she puts her mind to it.”

“And let me know where she’s going at all times.”

“You’re going to be a great dad one day, brother.”

“I like it that you’re so agreeable.” Bryan nodded then shook his head. “But that doesn’t prove Madi’s going to listen to me.”

“Believe me. I’m sure she’ll be ecstatic to get out of this house.” Susan let out a deep breath. “It’ll be good for the boys, too. They’ve suffered enough.”

“Ethan told me they were hiding in the closet this morning when you and Madi were going at it.”

Susan cringed. “I feel bad about that, but I can’t change what happened.” She glanced at the clock on the wall. “Speaking of the boys, I sent Ethan to get them a while ago. I should see what’s taking them so long.”

“I’ll wait right here in case Madi shows up.” Bryan sat by the kitchen table, a full glass of iced tea in his hand.

When Susan left, the burden of bringing Madi home with him threatened to crush all of his plans. How could he propose, help Ashley plan a wedding, and teach while taking care of a troubled fifteen-year-old girl?

6

The floral aroma wrapped around Ashley in a sweet embrace the minute she walked into Tori’s small shop, Petals and Gifts.

“Two sisters in one day. What a nice surprise.” Tori, round with the impending birth of her third child, called out as she wrapped a shiny silver ribbon around the blue and lavender floral arrangement.

Ashley clutched her purse snugly under her arm, the photo of the little girl sitting beside her in the wagon tucked securely inside. She sidled up to the counter. “That’s gorgeous. I love the deep purple hues.”

“Thank you. Sweet peas, lisianthus, and hydrangeas are one of my favorite combinations. Are you here to remind me about tomorrow night, too?”

Ashley shook her head. “No. What’s that about? Lauren seems on edge.”

“I have no clue. Said she’d let us know at dinner. If you ask me, I think she’s pregnant. She looked a little pale.” Tori set the arrangement aside and arched her back. “Oh, I’m stiff.”

“I think you want her to be pregnant. Misery loves company, right?”

“Very funny.” Tori sent her a cheeky grin. “But haven’t Lauren and Sean been trying a while? They’ve been married for what, five years now, and she’s not getting any younger.”

“I have no idea.” Ashley picked up the scrap piece of ribbon and twisted it around her finger.

“Did you want to order flowers?” Tori asked. “You could’ve called.”

“Oh, no. I didn’t stop by for that.”

“Okay.” Tori moved from behind the counter. “Do you need a gift? I have a new shipment of trinkets in back, or you can pick from what I have. Maybe a small basket of shells? Or a candle? This one smells nice.” She picked up a pale yellow one and brought it to her nose. “Mmm. It’s tiare, the Tahitian flower.”

Time to get to the point of her visit.

Ashley pulled the picture out of her purse. “I’m creating scrapbooks for Grandma and I found this photo. Do you recognize these girls?” Her voice wobbled. Please, Lord, let it be a birth relative.

“Let me see.” Tori set the candle down, took the photo, and studied it. “This looks like you.” She pointed to the older girl. “But I don’t recognize the younger one. There’re no names on the back?”

“No.” Disappointment settled in the pit of Ashley’s stomach. At the time of her adoption, Tori would’ve been old enough to remember if she had a biological relative, especially a sibling.

“Bring it tomorrow night. I’m sure Mom could tell you.” Tori once again lifted the candle off the shelf. “Here, I want you to have it. Light it while you soak in the tub. Read a good book. There’s nothing more relaxing.”

“I’m more of a shower kind of girl. Who has the time?”

Tori pressed the candle into Ashley’s hands. “Try it. You’ll love it. I promise.”

Her sister had a way of pushing her way on others whether they wanted her to or not. In this case, she’d oblige. A bath sounded heavenly. Ashley smelled the candle. It reminded her of a tropical vacation, a dream honeymoon destination. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Tori untied her apron and set it on the counter. “If I didn’t wear one of these, my whole belly would be covered in water and leaves.” She laughed.

“I hope I look as good as you when I’m pregnant one day.”

Tori straightened the shelf to fill the gap where the candle had been. “So what else is new? How’s tall, dark, and handsome treating you? Any proposals on the horizon?”

Ashley set down the candle and tucked the photo into her purse. “I thought he might propose the other night, but our plans changed. He needed to watch his nephews while Susan hunted for Madi. She’s giving Susan trouble.”

“That’s too bad.” Tori’s brows knit together. “Are you sure he’s not using his family as an excuse to avoid popping the question?”

“Bryan wouldn’t do that.” Would he?

“But you did say you thought he was going to propose—”

“Say, I’ve got to run,” Ashley cut in, making her way toward the door. “I’ll see you tomorrow night. Thanks for the candle.”

Even if she knew more about the situation she wouldn’t share specifics with Tori. Her sister had strict opinions on childrearing, and Ashley wouldn’t get into a needless debate. Besides Tori was overprotective and had overreacted a time or two.

“See you tomorrow night. Love you, sis.” Tori called after her. “Hey, take a soak in Grandma’s claw foot tub. You look a little stressed.”

The old-fashioned bells jingled at Ashley’s exit, her sister’s words echoing in her mind. Was she tense? In the last twenty-four hours, she hunted for a dog that dug his way into her heart, was reminded of her childhood cancer, and found a photo of a possible long-lost relative. Pain gripped her neck and shoulders. She rubbed her hand across her tight muscles.

Most of all, she wanted to spend more time with Bryan, the man she wanted to marry. If only he’d ask.

Doubt about her life, past and future, jabbed at her. Was Tori right? Had Bryan chosen his family over proposing? Impossible. She brought the candle to her nose once more. A relaxing bath was exactly what she needed to release her tension and set her heart right.

By now, her handsome boyfriend would be finished taking care of his lawn, a chore he did every Saturday, and would be ready to make plans for the evening. She could picture it now. She’d wear the cute top she’d bought at the thrift store and slip into her favorite jeans, the ones Bryan said complimented her figure. She’d gather ingredients for pasta, or maybe stir-fry, to cook dinner at Bryan’s house. It would be a romantic evening, just the two of them.

And when his stomach was satisfied and they were cuddling on the couch, maybe then if he truly loved her, he would propose. Ashley leaned against her car, pulled out her cell phone, and punched in Bryan’s number to finalize the date.

7

Within the first few minutes of Ashley’s conversation with Bryan, her plans for the evening floated away like dandelion fluff in the wind. She leaned against her car in the parking lot of Petals and Gifts and kicked a stone by her feet. “Madi is going to move in with you?” Her voice wavered.

“I know. Crazy, huh?” Bryan’s tone sounded as if he wasn’t totally convinced of his decision.

“You sure this is what you want?”

“No, but at this point Susan feels like she doesn’t have another option—”

“How about a friend? Or your parents?” Panic rose in her throat. Was she being selfish?

“Susan and I talked about it, but my parents wouldn’t understand. They’d make Susan feel worse about her situation—”

“And you feel you’re the only one left to help?” Ashley narrowed her eyes and took in a deep breath.

“I’m family. We stick by each other.”

She didn’t dare bring up the possibility of Madi staying with a friend for the second time. Didn’t Bryan understand his decision affected her as much as it did him? She’d see even less of him than she did now. Between their conflicting work schedules, time alone was difficult to come by. And a proposal? Forget it.

Plus, she didn’t know Madi very well. The girl always hung out in her room or was away whenever Bryan’s family would get together. And when they did see her, Madi barely said two words. From what Susan had said the last time they saw her, the teenager had issues. “Do you think you can handle someone like Madi? After all …” Did she dare say it? “You’re … a guy.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“You know exactly what I mean. How’re you going to talk with her about girl stuff?”

“I do have a sister, you know. It’s not like I’m totally in the dark.”

Lately, Ashley could argue that point. She’d been serious about getting married for the past year and he was obviously clueless to her feelings. “I’m just saying—”

“Madi’s home. Gotta go. I’ll call you later tonight. Love you!”

The second they hung up, irritation wormed its way inside. Bryan never asked her opinion before making the decision. He did it on his own—without considering her feelings. He’d broken their date to Shadowbrook, and once again, Madi was put first in his life. True, Susan needed someone to help her get her daughter under control, but did it have to be Bryan? Ashley hadn’t even had a chance to tell him about the photo.

She tossed her cell phone in her purse, opened the car door, and sat in the driver’s seat, leaning her head back against the headrest. Instead of being supportive of Bryan’s decision to care for his niece, she’d made him feel less than adequate. It was a big responsibility to care for someone’s wayward child. And yet, how could she not feel sorry for herself?

She’d be abandoned again tonight—and possibly many more evenings to come.

What would it take for Madi to get rid of the scowl on her face? Bryan had tried every bribery trick in the book, even promising to take her to Palapas, one of the best Mexican restaurants in Aptos, but she continued to slouch in the passenger seat of his truck, not saying a word.

He pulled to a stop in front of his small home.

“Will you please drop me off at Kristin’s?” Her brows arched, and the hard line of her mouth softened.

“Sorry, Magpie. You’re stuck with me until your mom decides—”

Madi shot him a look, got out of the truck, and slammed the door. She grabbed her pillow and her duffle bag filled with who-knows-what from the truck bed, and marched to the front door like a toddler not getting her way.

How long could he make her stand there before she’d hurl her things across the yard? A chuckle escaped. He couldn’t believe he was laughing at a time like this, but what else could he do? She was acting like a spoiled child.

A brat of a child.

A child abandoned by her father.

Poor girl.

His heart softened, and the laughter stopped. In a way, Paul abandoned him, too. They had been friends for a decade since the star athlete dated his sister in college. He and Paul were more than acquaintances. They were brothers. Bryan had looked up to him for years, asking him for prayer or advice. Besides his pastor, Paul had been the godliest man Bryan had known until Paul left his family for the younger woman at the gym.

Several months ago Bryan caught Paul talking on his cell phone in a secretive manner. His brother-in-law dodged questions when Bryan asked him who had called. Why didn’t Bryan press for an answer? Too late now. The damage was done.

Madi made a show of dropping her bag by the front door and crossing her arms, jolting him back to the situation at hand.

He grabbed her sleeping bag from the backseat and slid out of the truck. “Ready to see your room?” He kept his tone light. “We may need to straighten it up a bit. I didn’t expect a guest when I left the house earlier. Oh, and don’t worry. I’ll move my bike out to the shed and whatever else might be in your way.”

Madi rolled her eyes. “Gee, thanks.”

“Hey, be glad the room has a bed. You could be sleeping on the floor.” He inserted the key in the lock and opened the door. “After you.”

Madi picked up her pillow and duffle bag from the small patio and went into the house. She turned toward him, shook her head in disgust, and curled her upper lip. “Did your house shrink or something? I don’t remember it being so tiny.”

Why he cared what Madi thought was beyond him, but he did. Her opinion confirmed his earlier thought. He’d have to sell this place and buy a bigger house if he married Ashley and started a family. The problem was, he couldn’t afford to move. And this was home.

“Makes cleaning it a lot easier. You’ll be glad it’s small.” He grinned, his meaning clear.

Madi huffed and stormed off, slamming the door to the eight-foot by ten-foot room she’d call her own until Susan could either handle her again or ask their parents for support, a promise she’d made to him before he brought the teenager home.

Please, God, let it be soon.

He wouldn’t be able to stand the girl’s attitude for long. But a promise was a promise. And he’d make the best of it even when it rocked everything in his world.

8

Ashley paced back and forth in her parents’ living room, waiting for Bryan and Madi to arrive. This afternoon, he’d promised they’d come to the weekly Sunday night dinner after missing church. Ashley tried not to let her feelings get in the way of what Bryan was doing for his family, but she couldn’t help the root of resentment growing inside.

Lauren walked into the room, moved the curtain aside, and peeked out. Whatever announcement her sister was going to make had her rattled.

“They’ll arrive soon. Bryan promised.” Ashley came up beside her. “Do you think Mom minds that Madi’s coming?”

“Oh no, not at all.” Lauren waved a hand in the air. “You know Mom. She makes enough to feed the entire neighborhood. Plus, we all pitch in with cleanup. What are a few more plates?”

“Are you sure you’re okay? You seem jumpy.”

Lauren rubbed her hands together and then dropped them to her sides. “I’m fine. Just waiting for everyone to arrive.”

Sean, Lauren’s stocky husband, came up behind her and wrapped his muscular arms around her shoulders. “Come on, baby. Mom needs your help in the kitchen.”

Lauren glanced up at him and grabbed his hand. A silent message passed between them. They walked away toward the kitchen.

If only Ashley were privy to what was going on, but she’d know soon enough. Once Bryan and Madi arrived.

A thought jarred her. Her sister had said, “a few more plates.” How odd. Bryan came every week. And adding Madi would only make it two. Was Lauren expecting someone else?

Parked against the curb several houses down, Kayla Witherspoon stared at the two-story clapboard house from her new Audi, a recent purchase and birthday gift from her parents. A knot twisted her insides. Why did she think this was a good idea? Ever since she talked with Lauren on the phone, she questioned her decision to meet her biological sister. Frankly, Kayla never knew Ashley existed until Lauren hunted her down and told her she had to meet her redheaded blood relative. Kayla had gotten along fine as an only child without Ashley for twenty-two years. What made her think she needed a sibling now—after all this time?

A pickup truck pulled to a stop in front of the house, and a handsome dark-haired man stepped out. A person sat in the passenger’s seat, but Kayla couldn’t quite see who it was.

After a few minutes of trying to coax the person out of the car, a woman came out of the house and rushed to the man’s side. She planted a kiss on his cheek and hugged him around the waist. Was that Ashley? Her sister?

Heat rushed up Kayla’s neck and settled in her cheeks. She could see the resemblance between them. They shared the same pale skin and slim body. Their hair was the same auburn color, although hers was straight compared to Ashley’s curls. Her heart pounded in her chest, and she slunk in her seat, trying to catch her breath.

A few seconds later, curiosity won out, and she scooted back up a notch to peek over the dashboard. Ashley waved to the person in Bryan’s truck, motioning him or her to come out. It took a few more seconds before a teenager slid out of the passenger’s seat. Ashley said something to her and rested a hand on the girl’s shoulder. The teen nodded and followed Ashley inside the house. The man held back. Once the teenager and woman went inside, the man reached into the glove compartment of his truck and tucked something into his pocket before going inside.

Kayla thought about her conversation with Lauren. She had said something about Sunday night dinners—how the whole family would get together every week to share a meal and have a good time. Over the phone, Lauren had also given Kayla a list of everyone’s names and how they were connected. Must be nice to be a part of such a big loving family. The man must be Ashley’s boyfriend.

Lauren had never mentioned a teenaged girl.

Didn’t matter.

Kayla wasn’t going to barge in to find out.

Her mind took a new direction. Maybe there was a reason her adoptive parents cut off all ties and raised her alone. Being successful doctors, they had enough money to raise a dozen kids or more, but they’d told her countless times how they only wanted one child. One perfect child to become a doctor, like them.

Didn’t her parents know how far from perfect she was? How she’d rather become anything but a doctor? How she’d rather be part of a big, loving family than have the pressure of being an only child? What if she failed? If her grades were any indication, she was headed for failure now.

Tears pooled in the corners of her eyes, and she swiped them away with cold fingers. No. Meeting Ashley was a horrible idea. Kayla didn’t need to be reminded about the type of family she dreamed about and the one she didn’t have. She dug in her purse for her car key.

Back home, her friends would set her straight. They’d remind her that she was a Witherspoon—someone with money, power, and prestige.

But is that what truly mattered?

Witherspoons had small, perfect families and became successful doctors. They didn’t have time for trite things such as family dinners or reuniting with long-lost sisters. They didn’t do what their hearts wanted most. They followed what was expected.

Then why had she come?

The front door opened again. This time a brunette stepped out onto the front porch, an expectant look on her face. Must be Lauren, the woman who called her, insisting she make the drive.

A queasy sensation gripped Kayla’s stomach.

She couldn’t talk with Lauren. Couldn’t meet the family. And definitely couldn’t start a relationship with Ashley.

Kayla started the car and drove away without looking back.

9

Ashley settled on the couch next to her mom with a cup of herbal tea in hand. The sweet smell of orange and spice filled her senses. “Too bad Lauren’s guest didn’t show. What was the big deal anyway?”

Her dad had left halfway through the meal after receiving a call about someone’s pipe bursting, a frequent occurrence during his thirty-plus years as a plumber. Her siblings and their families had gone home. Bryan and Madi, too.

“She didn’t say anything to me. You’d think she would have since I’m the one hosting.” Mom sipped her tea.

Now that it was the two of them, the time had come. Ashley reached into her back pocket and produced the photo. “Have you seen this picture before?”

Mom studied it. “Where did you get this?”

“I found the photo in a box in Grandma’s trunk. Do you know who she is?”

Mom shook her head, her brows knitted together. She handed the picture back to Ashley and stood. “I need a warm-up. Can I get you anything? I have cookies. Would you like one?” Her voice shook.

Was her mom upset? “Mom, I’m sorry. I should’ve showed it to Grandma first, but Tori mentioned I should ask you—”

“You showed the picture to Tori?” Mom’s tone rose a notch. She hadn’t intended to rile her mother.

“I’d like to find her. I thought she might’ve remembered who she was …” Ashley let her words dangle.

Mom poured hot water into her cup and swirled the tea bag around. “Honestly, Ashley, if we knew who the girl was, don’t you think we’d have told you about her?”

Ashley hadn’t considered her mom’s reaction to the photo. Better let it go before either one said something they’d regret. “Mom, forget it, okay? It’s just an old picture.” She stuck the photo back in her purse, feeling the need to change the line of conversation. “Hey, where are those cookies you mentioned?”

“Right here.” Mom’s facial features relaxed some, but her tone remained stiff. She dug in the big blue jar and pulled out a couple of sugar cookies and set them on a plate.

Ashley snatched one, dipped it in her tea, and bit off a piece. The soft, buttery cookie melted in her mouth. No one made sugar cookies like her mom. “I should get going soon. I have to work in the morning.”

“Ash, about the photo …”

“Mom, really. It’s no big deal.” She stretched the truth and stuffed the rest of the cookie in her mouth.

“I’ve never seen that little girl before. I promise.”

She touched her mom’s hand, wanting to ease her fears. “I believe you. We don’t even know who she is, so don’t worry about it, okay?”

Over the years, whenever Ashley had mentioned wanting to find someone in her birth family, her mom clammed up so Ashley never pursued it. Hurting her adoptive family wasn’t an option then, and it wasn’t an option now.

Mom set the lid on the cookie jar with a clank and put the honey away in the cabinet. She wiped the cookie crumbs off the counter with a rag and dried the wet spot with a towel. “I want to talk with Grandma. Find out where she got the photo—”

“Please, Mom, let me do it, okay? I’ll tell you what she says. I promise.” Why had she listened to Tori? Ashley grabbed her purse off the counter. “Thanks for dinner. Your fried chicken is the best.”

“I’m surprised Bryan took Madi in. I can tell that girl is a handful.”

“I’m as surprised as you are.” Ashley squelched her frustration, kissed her mom on the cheek, and made her way to the door. “See you next Sunday.”

“Or before.” Mom chased after her. “Did you see how low Tori’s carrying that child? She may have her baby this week. She’s going to call us when she goes into labor.”

Mom never liked good-byes.

“Shouldn’t be long now. Gotta run. Bye, Mom.” Ashley clicked the door shut, cutting off any more talk of old photos, unruly teens, or upcoming babies. On the short ride home, she replayed the conversation in her head. Not once had Mom asked her what she thought about the photo or how discovering it made her feel.

“Where were you?” the female on the other end of the line asked.

Kayla shouldn’t have answered the call. How would she explain to Lauren her reason for not showing up? Better to set things straight than dance around the subject. “I changed my mind, simple as that.”

Lauren sighed. “There’s a chance Ashley hasn’t seen the photo, but if she has, she’s bound to come looking for you.”

“Can’t you just get the picture?”

“I can try, but that’s not the answer. Are you sure you don’t want to meet?”

Kayla dropped her keys on the side table of her plush San Francisco apartment and sank down on the white chaise. The lights of the skyline below provided her with a million-dollar view. “I have a life, too, and there’s no room for building a relationship with a stranger—”

“She’s your sister.”

The minute Kayla saw Ashley she sensed Lauren was telling her the truth. But she wouldn’t let on that she’d driven down the coast. “So you say.”

“Was that you in the Audi?”

Kayla had fibbed to her parents to get out of the dinner with the head of the summer residency program, but she wouldn’t be able to get out of this one so easily. Lauren had seen her. Kayla pressed her eyes shut and let out a breath. “I couldn’t do it, all right?”

“There’s always next Sunday—”

Kayla moved to the window and pressed her forehead against the cold glass. “You don’t get it. We look like sisters, yes, but we come from two totally different worlds. And mine’s complicated.”

“I’ll give you more time to think about it.” Lauren’s tone held a hint of sadness and what? Hope? Or was that desperation?

“I don’t need more time,” Kayla shot back. “I thought about it the whole way back to San Francisco. It’s better if we leave things alone. The way they’ve always been.”

“Please think about it—”

“Ashley and I don’t know each other, and I’m pretty sure we have nothing in common. Yes, our biological parents gave us our DNA, but they abandoned us to be raised by two different families. Separately. End of story.”

“There is so much more.” Lauren’s tone softened.

“Not for me.” Kayla turned off the light in the hallway and felt her way to her bedroom in the dark. “Get the photo. And don’t call me anymore.”

Tanner had come back to her.

Ashley bolted out of her car and ran toward the Labrador. Quick movements might scare him off and send him running, but Ashley couldn’t help herself. She had missed him. “Come here, boy.”

The dog hunkered, lowering himself on the front porch. He rested his head between his front paws and looked at her with his brown soulful eyes. Her heart warmed.

As she approached, his tail swished back and forth. “You’re happy to see me, too, aren’t you, boy?”

The dog barked.

Ashley leaned down and stroked his soft head. “Hungry? I have dog food, remember?” She put her key in the lock and opened the front door.

Tanner didn’t move.

Ashley patted her leg and whistled, attempting to coax him inside.

Instead, the dog whimpered.

She leaned down and inspected him further. No unusual cuts or markings on his body. The bottom of his paws looked healthy and free from debris. And his tongue and gums were the perfect shade of pink. What could be bothering him?

Tanner rolled onto his side and lifted a paw. She scratched behind his ears and then rubbed his tummy. Maybe the dog was simply tired. But she couldn’t leave him on the front porch all night and run the risk he’d take off again.

She went in the house and pulled a dog treat out of the kitchen cabinet. If she couldn’t get him to come inside now, something was definitely wrong.

By the time she got back to the front of the house, Tanner sat staring at her through the screened door as if begging her to let him in. That was better.

She pushed open the door and held out the dog treat. He lumbered forward, snatched up the food with his tongue, and moved across the room before settling himself on the floor, his back outstretched against the denim sofa.

Now, Ashley had two reasons to call her grandmother: to ask about the photo and whether Tanner could stay until morning.

Meanwhile, Ashley would enjoy the visit, even let him lay beside her in the king-sized bed. Something about the company of this dog kept her loneliness at bay.

Grandma couldn’t deny Tanner another night, could she?

10

Ashley slipped into her paw-print scrubs before attempting to put her unruly hair into a ponytail. Stray tendrils escaped and framed her face. She tucked them behind her ears.

Her job as a veterinary technician had her working between the animal shelter and the clinic. Most days, she tended to the animals’ basic needs, like feeding and cleaning kennels, but other times, she assisted the veterinarian with laboratory procedures, physical examinations, and immunizations.

She filled her travel mug with coffee, grabbed a granola bar and a banana, her typical breakfast, and snatched her keys off the hook by the door. “Come on, Tanner.”

Last night’s phone conversation with Grandma hadn’t gone well. She wouldn’t budge. Under no uncertain terms was Ashley allowed to keep the dog at the house. Tanner had to go to the animal shelter. Period.

He stood from his place by the sofa and wagged his tail. Ashley blinked back the moisture that formed in her eyes. Her grandma had no idea the effect this dog had on her. She wanted and needed to care for him. But now that wasn’t going to happen.

She hooked the leash to the dog’s collar, locked the door, and brought him to her station wagon. Tanner jumped into the passenger seat, rested his backside down, and stared out the front window. Poor dog. He had no idea where she was taking him.

The animal shelter was a difficult place. Many dogs caught kennel cough or other diseases and turned from being happy, sweet dogs into sad animals who cowered in the corner of their kennels, waiting for the right family to come along. Thank goodness the shelter where she worked was a no-kill zone. Euthanasia wouldn’t be Tanner’s fate, but if he were adopted she might never see him again. He looked at her, and her heart tore in two.

Ashley pressed the side button, unrolling the window halfway down. The ocean breeze filtered in. Tanner stuck his face out the opening and sniffed at the air. She ran her hand down the length of his back, feeling his short silky coat.

She pulled her gaze away and put the car in gear. She’d be late for work if she didn’t head there now.

Ashley backed out of the driveway … and drove in the opposite direction.

The house was quiet—too quiet.

For two days straight, Bryan had tolerated Madison’s loud music. Now as they readied for school, he appreciated the silence. More than once in the past forty-eight hours he’d questioned his decision to care for the teenager. She was rude, messy, and expected things that Bryan couldn’t accommodate. When he’d decline a request, she would give him the silent treatment or huff off. No wonder Susan needed a break. Out of exasperation, a person could do and say things they’d later regret. So far, Bryan had been able to hold his tongue, but he didn’t know how much longer he’d be able to keep it up.

His attempt at making Madi breakfast this morning had failed. She told him her mom gave her a few dollars every day to grab something in the cafeteria. She didn’t have time to eat before leaving for school. He’d ended up tossing the remainder of the scrambled eggs in the trash.

“Ready to go, Magpie?” He called out, purposefully using her nickname to keep his tone light as he stood at the kitchen counter making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Maybe she’d respond in a positive manner.

“Almost,” she yelled back.

In the short time she’d been at his house, he’d already caught on to her stall tactics. Using that word meant she wanted more time to primp. He didn’t understand her preoccupation with her looks. The girl wore way too much makeup for a girl of her age.

“We need to leave in a minute. Make it quick,” he called back as he put away the food in the refrigerator. He grabbed a couple oranges and placed them in the brown paper bags with the sandwiches.

Bryan moved to the small dining room table and loaded his laptop into his backpack. “Madi, if we leave now, we’ll both be on time—”

“Lighten up. I’m ready.” Madi wore a tight mini skirt that barely covered her backside. Her eyes were dark-rimmed.

Bryan shook his head. “Oh, no! You can’t go to school looking like that.”

Madi brought her hands up to her slender hips. “Who says?”

His eyes narrowed. “I say.”

“You’re not my parent.”

“Right now, I’m your guardian, and you need to follow my rules.” He took a step toward her. “I’m pretty sure there’s a dress code at your school, and I seriously doubt what you’re wearing is okay.”

Madi rolled her eyes and expelled a breath. “A bunch of my friends wear skirts like this and no one ever says anything.”

“Well, I’m saying something.” Bryan pointed. “Go change.”

Madi muttered choice words under her breath and dragged her feet toward her room.

Nothing like a tug-of-war to start my day.

Now he’d definitely be late. If he was ever going to make it to work on time, he’d need to arrange a carpool. He ran a hand through his hair and sent up a silent prayer for help.

A familiar knock sounded on the door. What was Ashley doing at his house on a Monday morning? Not that he was complaining. He had little time with her lately and welcomed the thought of seeing her. A good morning kiss would be nice, too. He opened the door.

“I have a favor to ask you.” Her words came out in a rush.

No hello? No kiss? Lately, it seemed all the women in his life needed something from him.

“Before you tell me what you have in mind, can I please have a hug? I need one this morning.” Bryan spread his arms wide then felt a little foolish. Did he sound desperate?

A smile lit Ashley’s face, and she stepped forward. She snuggled against him, and he wrapped his arms around her taking in her clean scent of peaches and cream. He loved that smell. He also loved the woman and could get used to seeing her every morning. But, of course, he’d have to marry her first. He should come right out and ask her. The thought sent his pulse racing.

A dog barked.

It barked again. Sounded as if it was coming from his driveway.

Ashley kissed him soundly on the mouth and stepped back, releasing her hold. “So, about that favor?”

“Oh, no. Don’t tell me you found that dog you were looking for.” He dropped his hands by his side.

“Grandma won’t let me keep him at the beach house, and I was hoping you’d like a new friend? He’s sweet and sleeps most of the time—”

“And he’ll need to be fed, walked, and picked up after. Ashley, I’m not ready for this, especially now that I have to take care of Madi. She takes up more than enough of my time.”

“If you don’t, then I’ll have to take him to the shelter. Please come and meet him.” Ashley grabbed his hand and tugged him toward her rundown car. The dog jumped out when she opened the door. His tail swished back and forth, and he circled around Bryan. “See, he likes you already.”

Madi bounded out of the house, wearing a tight pair of ripped jeans. “You got a dog?” She leaned down on one knee and scratched the dog behind both ears. The dog lowered himself to the ground and rolled onto his back so that Madi could rub his belly.

Bryan hated to admit it, but having a dog around the house might be good for his relationship with his niece.

“His name is Tanner. Isn’t he sweet?” Ashley directed her comment to Madi then patted the dog’s head and grinned. “I found him the other day wandering around by himself. He didn’t have a collar or a microchip. I posted signs, but no one responded. I’m thinking about adopting him, but I can’t keep him at the beach house.”

“We can take care of him for you, can’t we, Uncle Bryan?”

Since when am I the guy everyone suddenly needs?

Ashley sidled up to him. “I’ll come by every day before and after work, and I’ll foot the dog food bill. You won’t have to worry about the financial commitment. I promise.”

Bryan crossed his arms.

“So, will you do it?” Ashley pleaded.

“I’m still thinking about the part you said about coming every day before and after work.”

Ashley grinned.

He blew out a puff of air between his lips. He had told her he’d consider getting a dog once they were married, but right now taking care of Madi was overwhelming. Then again, maybe Ashley would see he was committed to their relationship—to her. “What do you think, Madi? Should we let Tanner stay with us?”

The teenager nodded, a smile tipping up the corners of her mouth.

Maybe this was a good thing. His niece needed something positive in her life. Or he’d go crazy. “Okay, Ash. You got me cornered.”

“Thank you!” She threw her arms around his neck and kissed him with more passion than she had in days.

Yes, he could get used to Ashley coming by twice a day. He had waited a long time to find the right woman, and seeing her often would give him plenty of opportunities to finally get over his fear and pop the question.

Madi scrunched up her face. “You two are disgusting. Get a room.”

“Very funny, Madi.” Bryan stepped back from Ashley’s embrace. “Grab Tanner and put him in the laundry room. The space is small but has a door, and he won’t roam around the house while we’re gone. Better safe than sorry.”

“I’ll put his dog food in the kitchen and fill a water bowl,” Ashley said.

“And I think I have an extra blanket he can use,” he added. “I’ll go look for it.”

The three scrambled around, doing their said chores while the minutes ticked by. He’d always been to school on time. How was he going to explain why he was late?

Once they had Tanner settled, Bryan locked up the house twenty minutes behind schedule.

“Want me to take Madi to school? She’s on the way to the animal clinic. In fact, I can do it every day if that would help.”

Ashley’s words were music to his ears. “That would be great, thanks.” Bryan leaned over and kissed her cheek. “Madi, I’ll be by to pick you up after school today. I expect you to be there. No funny stuff, okay?”

Madi’s facial features turned stone cold. She got in Ashley’s car without saying another word.

“Maybe you’re right.” Bryan lowered his voice. “I have no idea how to talk to this girl.”

“I’m sorry for what I said.” Ashley matched his tone. “There aren’t many men who’d take a teenaged niece under their roof.”

Bryan needed to hear the confirmation once more. “So you think I’m doing the right thing?”

“You’re doing the best thing. And I love you for it.”

“Are we talking about Madi or the dog?” Bryan teased.

Ashley squeezed his hand. “If I’m honest, both.”

The horn beeped. Madi pointed to the watch on her wrist and glared.

“I’ll be a listening ear to Madi as well,” Ashley said. “I’ll let you know if she says anything interesting. In the meantime, together we might be able to help save two lives.”

As good as that sounded, he preferred to have his normal life back, the one where he had time to himself and with Ashley.

He slid behind the wheel of his pickup truck, swearing he could hear the dog howl from inside the house.

11

It had been five days since she’d brought Tanner to Bryan’s house, Tori’s comment about Bryan not far from her mind. Was he using his family as an excuse to avoid popping the question?

On the evenings she wasn’t working at the shelter, she helped Madi with her homework and walked Tanner before preparing dinner with Bryan. Once the dishes were washed and dried, Madi would go to her room while Ashley and Bryan sat beside each other on the couch, rehashing their day. When they grew tired or Bryan had papers to grade, she would slip home to her too-quiet beach house.

Tonight, as she entered, Ashley was greeted by an odd noise. She took a step back toward the door.

Footsteps sounded from the attic. Ashley tiptoed toward the hallway. Just as she suspected, the pull-down ladder had been unfolded and someone was up there. Gathering her wits about her, Ashley flipped on a light above the dining room table and bolted to the kitchen to grab a knife from the butcher block on the counter. Her heart beat a staccato rhythm as she pulled her cell phone out of her purse and called 9-1-1.

Above her head, the floor creaked with each step taken by the intruder. Ashley clutched the knife so tightly that her fingers ached. She raised it, poised to protect herself if need be.

The phone rang once … then again. This was an emergency. Didn’t 9-1-1 realize that?

The steps ended at the top ledge.

Ashley slipped back into the kitchen out of sight.

The ladder groaned as it did with the slightest weight on the steps. Someone was climbing down.

“Nine-one-one, what is your emergency?”

The intruder must have heard the dispatcher’s voice. She spun in Ashley’s direction.

“I’m—I’m sorry,” she told the woman on the other end of the line. “I thought someone had broken into my house. It’s—it’s only my sister.” She sat the twelve-inch knife on the counter and breathed a sigh of relief.

“Are you sure?” the dispatcher asked. “I can send a patrol car.”

“No—No. She’s right here in front of me. We’re good. Again, I’m sorry.” She clicked off the call.

Ashley let out a huff. “Lauren, What are you doing? I could have killed you.”

Lauren’s eyes grew round. “I was looking for something in the attic. Grandma gave me a key a long time ago. You didn’t lock the door, by the way.”

Ashley usually felt safe in her peaceful neighborhood and didn’t feel the need to lock the door—until now. “Well I sure hope you found whatever you were looking for because you scared me half to death.”

Lauren chuckled. “So I scared you, huh?”

“You’re lucky I didn’t plunge that knife through your gut.” She motioned to the weapon laying on the counter.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t think you’d be home tonight.”

“What were you looking for, anyway?” Ashley shrugged out of her cardigan. She’d changed from her scrubs when she got to Bryan’s house and still needed to get her backpack from the trunk of the car.

“Looking for?”

“In the attic? The reason you’re prowling around the house … with the lights off”

“Just something in one of the old trunks. It’s no big deal.” Lauren tossed her words over her shoulder and grabbed her purse off the edge of the sofa.

How had Ashley missed seeing Lauren’s leather bag when she’d entered? “Well, if you’d tell me what you’re looking for, I can keep an eye out for it.”

“How’re the scrapbooks coming along?” Lauren changed the subject as she made her way to the door.

“Slowly. I’ve been busy at work and helping Bryan with his niece and a dog I rescued—”

“Grandma told me about him. Tanner, is it? She wasn’t too happy you wanted to keep him here. How can you afford a dog if you can’t pay rent?” Lauren shook her head, her brows furrowing. She leaned against the doorframe. “Grandma is generous to let you stay here. I know she’s not hurting for money, but she’s going to lose a lot of income with the house not being rented out this summer.”

“I know. You don’t need to remind me. Grandma and I worked out an arrangement. It’s not like she’s getting nothing out of the deal. Besides, the situation isn’t permanent.”

“That’s good to hear. It’s about time you and Bryan tied the knot.”

Agreed. But she wasn’t the one who was afraid to ask. “Thanks for the advice.”

“Gotta run.” Lauren waved good-bye, sauntered down the walkway, and slid into her car.

A puzzling thought troubled Ashley. Her sister never answered what she was looking to find. It could be a number of things since Lauren worked for her grandmother and was in charge of the beach house. And yet?

Ashley pushed the thought aside, locked the front door, and moved down the hall to ready for bed. It was nine o’clock, still early, but it had been a busy week and she was tired.

As she washed her face and brushed her teeth, her mind drifted to the photo. She’d intended to ask her grandmother about it after discussing whether or not Tanner could stay, but their phone conversation was cut short when Grandma received another incoming call.

Now it’d been almost a full week since their conversation. In a way, Ashley wanted to hold onto the dream of having a biological sister without her grandma, or anyone else, telling her otherwise.

But now a bigger part of her wanted to know the truth.

Who and where was the girl in the photo? And would she care to meet?

“You didn’t find the photo?” Kayla gripped the cell phone to her ear as she sat at her desk, a pile of medical textbooks surrounding her along with a notebook and various colored highlighting pens.

“I looked everywhere in that attic.” Lauren let out a deep sigh. “Either the photo was never in the trunk or Ashley has already found it.”

Kayla leaned back in her chair, not wanting to believe the latter. “Where else could it be?”

“Look, Kayla, I realize inviting you to a family dinner may not have been the best idea—”

“You’ve got that right.” Kayla took a sip of her soda. It was late to be drinking caffeine, but she needed to stay awake and study if she was going to pass her exams next week.

“Please, hear me out—”

“I’m listening.”

“Ashley is the sweetest person I know. She’s caring, sweet … and loyal—”

Sounds as if Lauren’s describing a dog.

“I’m sure she is, but I don’t have the time right now.” Kayla stood and paced the room. “I’ve got finals staring me in the face, and if I don’t pass them with flying colors, my parents will be upset—and that’s putting it mildly.”

“Would you consider meeting her in a few weeks after you finish your exams?”

Lauren’s question caught her off guard. The woman wouldn’t take no for an answer. Maybe if she played along, Lauren would leave her alone for a while.

“Okay, you win. Call me mid-June, but not before. I need to focus on school.” Kayla didn’t know if that was possible. She had a hard enough time concentrating on her studies before finding out she had a sibling within an hour and a half’s drive.

“Okay, I understand.” Lauren’s tone was gentle.

“And promise me that if Ashley says anything to you about the photo, you’ll not mention you contacted me.”

“I don’t know.” Lauren hedged. “I’m not going to lie—”

“I’m not asking you to lie. Just omit the truth.”

“If Ashley asks, I’m afraid I won’t be able to help myself—”

“Please?” Kayla begged.

“I’ll do my best.”

“Well, then. Let’s hope she doesn’t find the photo.”

Once they ended the call, Kayla laid her cell phone face down on the kitchen counter. The leopard print phone cover blended with the granite. She rubbed her hand against the cool, flat surface.

Oddly, she pictured Ashley wearing a leopard print blouse. The material would be sophisticated and sheer, worn with a pretty camisole underneath. Did her biological sister know the difference between leopard and cheetah print? Most people didn’t. Kayla traced her fingers over the clusters that looked like roses. Cheetah spots, on the other hand, were simply round black spots. Most redheads didn’t think they could wear the prints, but Kayla knew otherwise.

If Kayla had her way she’d be a fashion designer, studying at the California College of the Arts in San Francisco instead of earning her medical degree. Since freshman year in high school, she’d created and sewn most of her own clothes, and over the years her girlfriends complimented her unique designs.

She’d even sewn a dress for her mother when she couldn’t find one for a hospital charity event. Kayla thought for sure her mom would recognize her true talent and allow her to go to fashion school instead of holding on to her fanciful dream of Kayla following in her footsteps and becoming a doctor.

Instead, her mom had come home from the event more excited than ever for her only child to go into the medical field. It didn’t help that her mom had received an award for leadership and excellence from her colleagues at the hospital. Mom wanted Kayla to experience what it was like to save lives and participate in the ever-advancing field. As Kayla listened, she thought she saw a flicker of understanding in her father’s gentle face and eyes, but instead of saying anything, he remained quiet.

At this point, it didn’t matter if her parents understood her true desire or whether Ashley shared the same interest for design. She had to study for med finals.

Kayla grabbed another soda from the refrigerator, along with celery sticks and a jar of peanut butter, and crept back to her desk.

This was going to be a long night.

12

A knock interrupted Kayla’s studies. She scrambled to her feet and peeked through the small hole in the door. It was Jeremy, a close friend and fellow med student.

Kayla opened the door a crack. “Hey, Jeremy. What’s up?”

“Is that how you greet your favorite lab partner?” Jeremy stepped inside her apartment and wrapped her in a bear hug. She melted in his embrace.

“Thanks. I needed a hug.” Kayla’s brows puckered. “Wait a minute. Didn’t you have a date with what’s-her-name?” She put a hand on her hip. “Didn’t go well, huh?”

“Okay, you caught me. Miss Perfect isn’t so perfect. She talked nonstop about her ex-boyfriend.”

“Ouch.” Kayla motioned for Jeremy to come into the family room and sit down.

“Guess she’s not over him yet.” He joined her on the high-end white sofa, the one her mom insisted she have.

“You mentioned they’d been dating awhile. Can’t say I didn’t warn you.” Kayla wanted to take back her words the minute she said them. Jeremy didn’t need the reprimand. Why make him feel worse?

Jeremy wagged his head. “Okay, you were right.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to rub it in—”

“Enough about me. What’s got you tied up in knots? You barely cracked a smile all week. Exams got you freaked?”

“That … and …” Did she dare say?

He leaned closer. “C’mon, Kayla. You can talk to me about anything.”

As much as she’d shared her heart with Jeremy in the past, now was not the time to tell him about Ashley when she had a few more weeks to mull over the whole idea before finals. Besides, why did it matter? Her life would go on just like it had before Lauren shocked her with the news. At first, she considered meeting her long-lost sibling, but the excitement quickly wore off once she discovered Ashley had a big family of her own. What if her sister rejected her? Kayla hated to admit how much the thought of a rejection stung.

“You guessed it. I’m afraid of finals,” she finally said. “I haven’t been doing very well this semester, and I’ve been keeping my less-than-stellar grades from my parents. It’s only a matter of time before they find out, and it’s got me on edge. You can understand that, can’t you?”

How could Jeremy relate? After all, he was at the top of the class. Maybe if he helped her study …

Jeremy stood. “Do you know what you need?”

“A study partner?”

“No, silly. A night out.”

It was close to ten o’clock. “You’re kidding, right?”

“Not by a long shot. C’mon, Kayla. Let’s go.” He held out a hand.

She appreciated his kickback attitude, but she had an image to uphold and wouldn’t be seen in her grungy blue sweats and oversized T-shirt. Grabbing his hand, she hoisted herself up. “I’ll go on one condition.”

A smile lit Jeremy’s face. “Name it.”

“Give me five minutes to change.”

“Really, Kay. You’re fine the way you are.”

“And you’re my sweet friend who loves me no matter what—

“You’ve got that right.” Jeremy smiled.

Kayla rolled her eyes. “I’ll be right back.” She went to her bedroom.

Jeremy cared for her all right, but hopefully in a sisterly type way. Their relationship would be better for it. Why complicate her life further by getting involved? She’d go out with him tonight and have a good time. He was always good for lighthearted conversation—making her laugh and helping her forget med school, her newly found sister, and her designer dreams.

She stood in front of her closet. Now, what should she wear?

Bryan sat at the kitchen table with a tall glass of cold milk and tossed a glance at his new leather shoes, now with chew marks all over them and a hole near the right toe. The pair had cost him a lot of money, and now they were ruined. True, it was his fault for leaving them in the laundry room where Tanner could find them, but he couldn’t afford to replace them or anything else the dog chose to destroy.

Besides the ruined shoes, Tanner wasn’t housebroken and had made a mess in the laundry room every night. The dog was more work than Ashley let on, but how could he disappoint her when she clearly loved the animal? Besides, Madison loved Tanner, too. The girl’s face brightened every time she saw the four-legged animal. How would she react if he gave the dog back? She might skip school or worse, hang out with that teenaged boy. With a dog at home, Madi had a responsibility to care for him every day after school.

Bryan rubbed his hand down the dog’s back. Truth was, Tanner tugged at his heart, too.

“Uncle Bryan?” Madi interrupted his musings and stood in the doorway wearing her nightly bedtime attire, a bright pink T-shirt and plaid flannel pajama bottoms.

“What’s going on, Magpie?” He patted the spot beside him. “Can’t sleep?”

She shook her head then slipped into the oak chair beside him, her eyes downcast.

“Want some milk?”

She shook her head again.

“Do you need something?” he asked.

She shrugged a shoulder. This conversation wasn’t going very well.

“Are you going to tell me what’s on your mind, or are we going to continue this guessing game?” Even he could hear the slight irritation in his voice. Would Madi get frustrated and walk away? Patience, Bryan.

Madi heaved a sigh.

It would take all his strength to stay quiet and wait for Madison to share what was on her mind. She wouldn’t have come to him unless it was important, right?

The small round clock on the wall ticked. His eyes veered to the left. It was twenty minutes after ten o’clock, not overly late by most people’s standards, but he was tired. Frankly, he was exhausted every Friday night after teaching all week, but this one had him completely wiped out. “Madi? I need to go to bed. Can it wait until morning?”

Her brows furrowed.

Bryan downed the last swig of his milk, rested both elbows on his thighs, and clutched his hands in front of him. “You can tell me anything. I promise not to judge.”

She bit her lower lip.

“Please tell me.” He pushed.

She raised her eyes. “Can I have my cell phone back?”

He had taken the phone away on Sunday when he caught her talking on it in the middle of the night. “Right now? You want me to give you the phone right now? At this hour?”

She nodded.

“Who do you need to call?” It was a rational question, but one that made him feel nosy just the same.

“Ashley.”

If he could choose anyone for Madi to call at this late hour, it would be his girlfriend. A thought zigzagged through his mind. What if Madison said Ashley’s name only to gain her phone back? Of course, why would Madi pick the one person he talked to on a regular basis? He’d find out quick if she were telling the truth. But could he trust Madi to make only the one call?

“Please?” Madi jostled her leg up and down.

This parenting stuff is hard. “I have an idea. Why don’t you call her from the house phone, and then I’ll speak to her once you’re through?”

The girl’s mouth turned down.

“I won’t ask what you talked about.”

Madi crossed her arms.

What would get Madison so uptight? Bryan grew more curious as time went on. Then again, maybe Ashley was right. He didn’t know how to talk with a girl. “I promise you and Ashley can keep it confidential unless it’s something that puts you in danger—”

“So, can I talk to her in my room?”

Bryan nodded, and then held up a warning finger, “And then hand me the phone once you’re through.”

“Okay.” Madison jumped from her seat, took the phone off the cradle from the kitchen counter, and took off down the hall.

He smiled. He didn’t cave in by giving her cell phone back, yet he allowed her to make a call. Seemed like a good solution. “C’mon, Tanner. Go outside.” He opened the back door and pushed the dog into the chilly night. There would be no mess in the morning if he could help it.

13

Ashley slunk under the covers in the luxurious king-sized bed. The crème-colored satin sheets were silky and cool to the touch yet provided the right amount of warmth during the night. June, Grandma’s friend, had made the delicately stitched quilt, and Grandma used the blues, greens, and a splash of yellow color scheme to decorate the entire beach house. Thank you, Grandma.

The woman was a saint, and Ashley would be more sensitive the next time they talked. She’d bring up the photo in a casual way, but if she suspected even a hint of annoyance, like her mom’s reaction, she’d drop the subject. If that were the case, Ashley would have to figure out another way to discover who the girl was. If Tori didn’t know, Ashley doubted Lauren would remember either. Besides, Lauren seemed distracted lately.

Ashley reached for her novel on the nightstand and propped pillows all around, situating herself. Most likely, she’d fall asleep after reading a few pages.

Her cell phone buzzed. Only two people would be calling at this hour—Bryan or her mother. She glanced at the screen.

Tori?

Ashley bolted upright and answered the call. “Are you in labor?”

“Yes. Hold on.” Tori raised her voice and panted.

Ashley pressed her ear against the phone and strained to hear what was happening in the background. Drew, Tori’s husband, gave her breathing instructions. As Ashley waited for Tori’s contraction to pass and for her to come back on the line, her excitement grew. She was going to be an aunt again soon.

Tori sighed into the phone. “Okay, I’m back.”

“Are you at the hospital?”

“No, still home. Mom was going to come stay with the girls, but her car’s been acting up lately, and Dad’s on another plumbing emergency. Mom says he should be home any minute, but I don’t know how long that will be. Can you come over?”

Ashley had agreed to be her mother’s backup weeks ago and was glad to fill that role now. She whipped the covers off and jumped out of bed. “No problem. I’ll be there as fast as I can.”

“Thank you, sis.”

Once they disconnected the call, Ashley hurried to her closet and quickly rummaged through her options. She slipped her nightgown over her head, replaced it with a T-shirt, and shimmied into her favorite pair of jeans and sheepskin boots.

She donned her lightweight jacket on her way out the door and tucked her cell phone into her purse before grabbing the small bag she’d already packed with some toiletries and an extra pair of clothes, just in case. Giving the front room a once over, she flipped off the light and locked the door. There would be no more surprise visitors when she came back home.

Tori lived in Scotts Valley, the sunnier part of Santa Cruz, a choice location for those who liked warmer weather or worked over the hill in the Bay Area like her technology-gifted brother-in-law. Drew provided well for his family. Tori’s income from the flower shop helped the family take vacations or purchase the extras. Ashley couldn’t be happier for her older sister’s seemingly perfect life.

As she drove down the stretch of highway, her cell phone buzzed, the sound muffled by her purse. Her heartbeat quickened. Was Tori calling again? Without her earpiece, she wouldn’t be able to answer the call. It was better to keep her eyes on the road and get to her sister’s house as fast as she could. Besides, whoever was calling would most likely leave a message. Ashley sent up a silent prayer that everything was all right.

Twenty minutes later, her station wagon rumbled to a stop in front of her sister’s newer two-story home. She barely got out of the car before Drew met her in the driveway.

“I’m so glad you’re here. Come through the garage. Tori’s waiting in the car.”

Ashley followed Drew to their van. Her sister’s seat was tipped back, the window rolled down. Tori’s face puckered. Short puffs of air exploded from her lips. Ashley hated to see her sister in so much pain, yet it satisfied her to know she could help by babysitting her two small nieces, aged five and three. A minute later, Tori’s breathing returned to a normal rhythm.

“Please pray.” Her sister’s voice hitched. “Something is different this time.”

“I did the whole way here.” Ashley rubbed Tori’s arm. “I’m sure everything will be fine.” As she said the words, she hoped and prayed them to be true.

“I hope so.” Tori blinked back tears. “Thank you for coming. The girls are asleep and should stay that way until morning. We’ll call you when the baby arrives.”

“I’ll be waiting.”

Drew walked around the van and slipped in beside his wife.

Ashley waved a farewell as Drew backed out of the garage. The pair drove down the street, the car’s taillights disappearing as they rounded the corner.

Please, God, help this little one into the world.

“I tried calling a bunch of times, but Ashley won’t answer.” Madi handed the phone to Bryan, disappointment evident on her face.

“That’s odd. Maybe she’s asleep.” Bryan attempted to block the doorway to his bedroom so that Madi wouldn’t see Tanner stretched out on his bed. He’d told her several times the past week that she couldn’t keep the dog in her room. What a hypocrite.

Madi folded her arms, her voice small. “I wanted to talk to her.”

Brian shrugged a shoulder. “I’m here if you need a listening ear.”

She curled her upper lip. “No offense, Uncle Bryan, but you wouldn’t understand. I’d rather talk to Ashley.”

How did he ever think he could help his niece? “We’ll try to call her again in the morning. In the meantime, get some sleep, okay?”

“Whatever.” Madi rolled her eyes and slunk to her room. She shut the door a little harder than he thought appropriate, but he’d let it slide this time. He was in no mood for an argument and was too tired to deal with anything else tonight.

He quietly closed the door to his bedroom and dropped down beside Tanner on the bed. He picked up his cell phone from his nightstand and typed a message.

HEY ASH, ARE YOU ASLEEP?

MADI TRIED CALLING. SHE WANTS TO TALK WITH YOU.

I DO TOO. WE’LL TRY AGAIN IN THE MORNING.

LOVE YOU, BRYAN

Satisfied with his message, he turned off the light, punched his pillow a few times, and closed his eyes. He drifted off to sleep praying for the teenager in the next room—and what he was going to do about the dog beside him on the bed.

“You want me to do what?” Kayla thrust her hand on her hip and shot Jeremy a hard stare. He was right. With what he had planned, she could’ve stayed in her sweats instead of changing into her designer jeans.

“Seriously, Kayla. You need to lighten up. One night of fun isn’t going to kill you—”

“True, but we’ve got exams coming up, and I can’t miss a whole night of sleep. Plus, driving down the coast at night is a little sketchy. What if the fog rolls in?” She was making excuses, and by the look on Jeremy’s face, he wasn’t buying it.

He laughed. “We’ll drive slow. I promise. Look, I made a thermos of coffee, downloaded a bunch of good tunes, and brought a blanket and a couple of beach chairs in case we wanted to stop somewhere—”

At least he didn’t say sleeping bags and a tent. Her mind was traveling down an odd path. This was Jeremy, not some guy she didn’t trust.

“We could drive down to Santa Cruz or Monterey,” he continued. “And if we’re real adventurous, we can go all the way to Big Sur.”

Driving south to Santa Cruz where Ashley lived was the last place she wanted to go right now. She was trying to forget about her newly discovered biological sister until exams were over.

How could she dodge the car ride without hurting Jeremy’s feelings? “How about the rooftop? We could have a good time right here.” She worked hard at making her voice sound convincing. “The view of the city lights is amazing. We could sip coffee, listen to music, keep warm under the blanket, and talk until we get tired.”

“Sounds like a true adventure.” Jeremy quipped. “I thought for sure you’d be up for it.”

“Wait a minute.” Kayla studied Jeremy’s body language. “This whole arrangement was for you and what’s-her-name. She declined, so you’re testing it out on me. Frankly, I’m surprised you’d plan this type of thing on your first date.”

“Okay, I get that. But we’ve known each other for years—”

“So, I’m right.” Kayla nudged his arm. “For a smart guy, that wasn’t very intelligent.”

Jeremy hung his head then looked up, a smile tipping the corners of his mouth. “I was going to be the perfect gentleman.”

Kayla chuckled. “I’m sure you were.”

“But with you, it’s different.”

Kayla expelled a breath. “And what do you mean by that?”

“You know me. I don’t have to worry that you’d think my intensions were less than honorable.”

“Right.” She wouldn’t admit that the thought did cross her mind. “Because we’re friends.”

Jeremy yawned. “Does the rooftop offer still stand? Sounds more relaxing than driving all night.”

“Now you’re talking.” Kayla grinned.

“As long as we don’t talk about genetics and molecular biology—”

“The thought did cross my mind.”

His mouth dropped open. “Seriously?”

She held up her hands in mock surrender. “Just kidding. I wouldn’t dream of it.”

Ten minutes later, they sat side-by-side under the blanket, sipping coffee and listening to soft tunes coming from Jeremy’s iPhone. He leaned toward her, their shoulders touching to keep warm.

“Am I such a bad guy?” His words were said in a hushed tone. “I can’t seem to find the right girl. At least the right girl for me.”

The shortened date affected him more than Kayla had realized. Now that she thought about it, Jeremy had had a string of bad dates. “You’re not a bad guy at all. Maybe you’re looking for the wrong type of girl.”

“Think so? What kind of girl should I be looking for?”

“One that’s not on the rebound or pining for an old boyfriend.”

“How about someone I’ve been friends with for a long time.”

“That’s a good start.”

“Someone who makes me laugh.”

“Uh-huh.”

“And someone who can share her heart.”

Kayla nodded. “That’s good!”

“Let’s not forget attraction. There’s got to be chemistry.”

“Speaking of chemistry, I have a question …”

He bumped her shoulder.

“Just teasing. Yes, I agree. You’ve got to be attracted to her.”

“And visa versa.”

“Jeremy, you’re a good-looking guy. I don’t think you’ll have any trouble there.”

“You think so?” Kayla could hear the smile in Jeremy’s voice.

“Uh-huh.” She kept her eyes forward and hoped the darkness hid the blush that tinged her cheeks. Why did she admit she thought he was attractive?

Under the blanket Jeremy’s warm hand took hold of hers. “I think you’re not only beautiful, but all those other things, too. I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to figure it out.”

Did she want their friendship to cross this line? Jeremy had never so much as held her hand or professed romantic feelings toward her. Did he mean it or had this last bad date clouded his judgment?

She slipped her hand away. “You’re just hurt, is all. You don’t know what you’re saying.”

“Kayla.” He turned her face toward his with gentle fingers. “For the first time, I know exactly what I’m saying.”

Is he going to kiss me?

She couldn’t leave him hanging without saying something. But at the moment, she had no idea what that would be.

14

“I think it’s best if we remain friends.” Kayla moved away from Jeremy’s touch, unsure of how he’d react—or how she felt. It wasn’t everyday your best guy friend proclaimed his romantic feelings. A knot formed in the pit of her stomach.

Jeremy’s facial features tightened, and his brows lowered over his chocolate-colored eyes.

Those eyes could draw any woman in. Me included. She shook away the thought and concentrated on making him understand her point of view. “I don’t want to ruin what we have—”

“Don’t say it.” Jeremy lifted a hand. “I get it, okay.”

He’s mad. She’d gone and made him angry. How could she do that to the one person she needed most right now? How would she make it through exams—and possibly a reunion with her biological sister—without him?

She let out a breath. “Maybe we can explore a relationship … after finals?” Her voice rose a notch.

Should I have said that? She bit her lower lip waiting for a response.

He gave her a dejected smile. “Oh, I understand. You need me for my brain.”

Kayla pushed herself up from the beach chair, whipped the blanket off Jeremy’s lap, and folded it … or rather wadded it in a ball. “So that’s it. You think I’m using you.” Guilt gnawed at her. Hadn’t she thought the same thing moments ago?

Jeremy collected his things. “Yes, I do.”

“Well, it’s your own fault. You know I’m having a hard time with finals coming up. Why would you choose now to confess how you feel about me?”

“You think I planned this? Believe me. I thought I was going on a date with Amanda tonight. I didn’t know I was going to end up here.”

“Gee, thanks.” Kayla turned away from him. Even the glow of the city lights couldn’t brighten her spirits. She was on an emotional rollercoaster, and suddenly it was all downhill.

“I’m sorry. That came out wrong.” Jeremy came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her shoulders.

His musky scent did a number to her senses. Why’d he have to smell so good? It would be so easy to turn around and give in to her feelings, but she had to keep her head on straight. She didn’t have the emotional reserve to start a relationship, nor did she have the time. Jeremy would either have to wait for her or be content to remain friends.

“I’ll wait until after finals. You’re worth it.”

His whispered words warmed her heart. Growing up, she’d never heard someone say that to her. Do better. Work harder. Strive for perfection. Those were the words her parents drilled into her. Was she worth waiting for?

Jeremy brushed his lips against her cheek. “I’ll be by in the afternoon to help you study. Let’s say two o’clock?”

She did turn around then. “Thank you, Jeremy. You’re a great friend.” It wasn’t much, but that was the best she could do.

“I’m glad you think so.” He picked up his iPhone, loaded a beach chair under each arm, and grabbed the empty coffee containers.

Kayla followed him down the stairs to his car, holding tight to the blanket. She lifted it to her nose. Smelled musky like Jeremy. Could she really consider being his girlfriend?

As attracted as she was to him, both inside and out, he was too good for her, and she could never measure up. The perfection bar was set too high. Why risk disappointing him? Soon he’d grow tired of her and push her away. It was better to keep a safe distance—from him and from Ashley.

A dog’s wet tongue licked the side of Bryan’s face. His eyes fluttered open, and he wiped his cheek on the sleeve of his T-shirt. He glanced at the alarm clock on his nightstand. 1 a.m. “Gotta go out, boy?” Bryan lumbered out of bed. The dog beat him to the door and bolted down the hallway. At least he wouldn’t have to pick up the dog’s mess in the laundry room. Bryan wiped the sleep from his eyes. Having Tanner sleep in his bed proved to be a smart move, that’s if he made it to the back door without stumbling.

Once in the kitchen, he unlocked the door and pulled it open. Tanner beelined to the nearest bush. The dog wasn’t a puppy, yet he acted like one in so many ways. Maybe it was the breed. Bryan took a moment to drink a glass of water then let the dog in.

Tanner took off toward the back of the house where the bedrooms were located. Bryan chased after him and let out a soft whistle. “Oh no, you don’t. It’s the laundry room for you.”

He grabbed the dog’s collar and hauled him back to the small room off the kitchen and closed the pocket door. Tanner barked. Now look what he’d done. Bryan shook his head in frustration. No turning back now. It was either let the dog sleep in his bed or listen to his howls the rest of the night. Bryan rested hands on hips considering his options. He covered a yawn.

Maybe the dog was thirsty. That was a simple fix. Bryan slid the door open a crack, only enough to take a peek at the dog bowl. It was full.

Tanner clawed at the opening, whining all the while. Another mistake. Bryan shut the door in the dog’s face. He’d need to get a spine if this was ever going to work. “Sorry, Tanner. I need to get some Zs.”

The dog barked. And barked again. He’d wake up Madi if he didn’t do something. The last thing he needed was another argument with his niece about the dog sleeping in her room. He poked his hand in and rubbed the dog’s head. “Shh.”

Why not save himself the trouble? Madi would be happy, and Tanner would be, too. And he’d get six more hours of uninterrupted sleep. Bryan smiled at the thought and slid the door open. Tanner jumped up nearly knocking Bryan over. The dog’s entire backside shook with excitement.

“Okay, okay. You win.” Bryan lifted a knee, making Tanner get down on all fours. “But don’t wake her up.” Like that’s possible. At least Madi would be happy.

The dog was practically under Bryan’s feet as he made his way through the house. Once at Madi’s door, a creaking sound gave them away, but not as much as Tanner bounding in and jumping on the bed. “Wait, no!” Bryan whispered the command a bit too late.

The dog settled himself on top of Madi. What?

Bryan rushed to the dog’s side, shoving him off and pulling down the blankets. A mound of pillows lay in her place. His heart sank.

Madi had run away—again.

“It’s a boy!” Drew’s excitement exploded through the phone.

Ashley turned off the television. “Details, details. I want to know everything.”

“Tori did great, but it was a little scary for a while. His heartbeat slowed whenever she had a contraction. The doctor finally performed a C-section.”

Ashley paced the room. “But he’s okay now, right?”

“Perfect. He’s perfect. And he has a bunch of dark hair like mine.”

She smiled. “That’s great.”

“They’re weighing him now. I’ll let Tori tell you the rest when she gets a chance. Can you tell the girls they have a baby brother?”

“Do you want me to tell them now or wait until morning?” she teased.

Drew laughed. “I forgot it was the middle of the night. Maybe you’d better wait if you want any sleep.”

“Exactly what I was thinking. Tell Tori I’ll call her when the sun comes up. I can’t wait to see the little guy. Congratulations, Drew—”

“I’ve gotta go. Something’s wrong.” Panic laced his tone.

The sound of the line going dead sent a shiver through her. Why didn’t Drew hang on a moment longer and tell her what was going on? Was something wrong with the baby … or with Tori?

As she set the phone back in the cradle, an image of a toddler being pulled away from her flashed through her mind. The antiseptic scent of a hospital and the beeping noise of machines swirled in her thoughts. For the first time, she remembered the tears, wetness running down her cheeks, and how she’d swiped them away with the hem of the cotton sheet, willing her three-year-old body to get out of the hospital bed so she could chase them down the hall and get the baby girl back. She was so small. Who would take care of her now? Where would she go? The long-ago memory slipped away as quickly as it came.

Ashley ran her fingers across the scar on her leg. She balled her fists and her heart pounded in her chest. She had to get to the hospital. To Tori. She had to make sure her sister was all right.

15

“Come on, Bryan, answer the phone.” Ashley shut her car door and walked back into the house. It had taken her a minute to come to her senses, realizing she couldn’t leave without someone to watch the girls. Bryan’s voicemail clicked on. Why would she expect him to answer the phone at this hour? She paced between the entryway and the kitchen. Maybe she should wake the girls and take them with her.

Car lights flashed through the front window. Ashley raced to the front door. She pulled it open as her mom and dad stepped out of their vehicle. Thank You, Lord.

“Did you hear? Tori had a baby boy!” Dad called out. “My first grandson.”

Didn’t they know? Had Drew not told them something was wrong?

Mom approached. “We were about to go to the hospital, but Dad insisted we swing by and make sure you’d heard the news. Do the girls know yet?”

“No. I didn’t wake them.” Ashley clenched her teeth. Should she tell them Drew hung up on her? That he sounded scared? But how could she when she didn’t have more information?

“We should give Tori a few hours to rest before we show up,” Dad said.

Mom stopped abruptly. “I told you in the car that I can’t wait that long.”

“Me, neither.” Ashley worked hard at keeping her voice even.

“Then why don’t the two of you go now, and I’ll come when the girls wake up.”

“Really, Dad? You don’t mind waiting?”

“Like I have a choice.” Dad crossed his arms, a smug grin on his face.

Ashley wasn’t going to argue. “Thank you.” She grabbed her purse from the table by the door. “C’mon, Mom. Let’s go.”

She couldn’t have timed her parents’ visit more perfectly. Now she could drive her mom to the hospital and find out firsthand what the problem was before alarming anyone.

“Oh, wait a minute. My cell’s ringing.” Mom riffled through her oversized bag on the way to the car. “Where is that thing?”

It took all Ashley’s effort not to grab the purse away and find the phone herself, if only to speed things up.

“Oh, here it is.” Mom brought the cell phone to her ear. “Hello?”

Ashley pinched her brows together. “Is it Drew?”

Mom shook her head. “No need to apologize. Here, I’ll let you talk with her. She’s right here.” She handed the phone to Ashley. “It’s Bryan.”

Bryan? She’d tried calling him a short time ago, and he hadn’t pick up. “Hello?”

“Where are you, Ash? I texted you earlier—”

“Tori had her baby tonight, and I needed to be here with the kids. What’s going on?”

“When I didn’t see your car, I didn’t know who else to call—”

“You drove to my house?”

“I thought Madi might be there.”

“You’re not making sense. Why would Madi be at my house?”

“She wanted to talk with you tonight.” Bryan heaved a sigh into the phone. “When I let Tanner into her room, Madi was gone.”

A problem at the hospital and now this? “Does your sister know she’s missing?”

“I’m going there now, but I don’t want to go alone. Wish you’d go with me.”

“Don’t worry. Madi probably went to a friend’s house.” As much as she wanted to help Bryan find Madi, her sister’s situation pulled her toward the hospital. “I want to be there for you, but I’m about to drive Mom to the hospital … to see Tori’s new baby.”

Mom stepped closer, concern evident on her face. “Does Bryan need you—”

Ashley stopped her with a hand. Could she put him off for a short time without sounding heartless? Bryan would agree with her decision once he understood her predicament. Her first priority was to make sure Tori and the baby were all right. “I’ll call you as soon as I can, okay?”

“That’s what I said to Susan the last time Madi ran away and ended up with that teenaged boy.” Frustration laced Bryan’s tone.

Knowing what she did about Madi, Ashley hated to admit Bryan might be right.

“I wish I knew where that kid lived,” Bryan continued. “I’d tell him a thing or two.”

Ashley switched gears. “Dad’s watching the girls ’til morning then bringing them to the hospital. Once he arrives, I’ll be free to meet up with you to find Madi.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t even ask. Was it a boy or girl?”

“It’s a boy, but I don’t know any more details. Sounded hectic when Drew called. Mom and I are hoping to get the scoop when we get there.”

“Don’t forget to call me. I’ll need the encouragement. Susan will be upset with me when she finds out I lost her daughter.”

“You didn’t lose her.” Ashley’s voice softened. “She took off. There’s a difference.”

“I don’t know if Susan will see it that way.”

“I’ll say a prayer for you on my way to the hospital. And for Madi, too.”

Once they disconnected the call, Ashley handed the phone back to her mom.

“If you’d rather I wait and go with Dad so you can be with Bryan, just say the word.” Mom tucked the phone in her bag.

“No. I need to go to the hospital. To make sure Tori and the baby are all right.” There. She’d said it.

“What?” Mom sent her a quizzical look and got in the car.

Ashley hesitated, buckling her seatbelt and starting the car’s engine. She took a deep breath. “When I was talking with Drew, he said something was wrong. He hung up on me, and that’s the last I heard from him.”

“Why didn’t you say something?” Panic laced Mom’s tone.

“Because I didn’t want to alarm you, and I don’t know anything else. What should we do now? Tell Dad?”

Mom glanced at Tori’s house then back at Ashley. “No. Let’s go. Dad’s been so busy with work. A couple of hours of sleep will do him good. Drew’s probably just experiencing parenthood jitters.”

Ashley pulled away from the curb. “I hope you’re right.”

Bryan leaned his head against the headrest, closed his eyes, and took a deep breath as he sat in his sister’s driveway. He wasn’t doing Madi any good by wasting time, but it was going to take all his strength to tell Susan she was gone.

Why’d he ever consider being the guardian of a rebellious fifteen-year-old girl? He could barely keep a plant alive let alone someone’s kid. And he was pulling double duty taking care of Ashley’s dog.

Something had to give.

A few hours ago, he’d thought he wanted to give Tanner back, but now he was sure it was Madison who had to go. The last couple of weeks had been challenging, almost downright unbearable at times. Sure, the dog calmed his niece down some, but she rarely carried on a conversation, at least not with him. Tonight, it became clear she needed a woman to confide in. In hindsight, he should have called Susan hours ago when Madi couldn’t get in touch with Ashley, something he had promised to do if he couldn’t cope.

But now it’s too late.

He glanced up at his niece’s bedroom window, the curtains drawn and dark.

Maybe she came back home and is asleep in her bed. But just as the optimistic thought flitted through, reality set in. Madison was no closer to rejoining her family than he was to proposing to Ashley.

Bryan got out of his car and walked up the sidewalk to the front porch. Instead of knocking on the door, he sat on the porch swing and punched in his sister’s phone number.

On the fifth ring, Susan, her voice groggy, came on the line.

He didn’t waste words. What was the point? Susan was going to be upset whether he prolonged the conversation or not.

“Honestly Bryan, I don’t expect her to act any differently at your house than mine. Remember, she took off before. I’m just shocked that she’d leave in the middle of the night.” Concern and frustration laced Susan’s voice.

“Madi wanted to talk with Ashley, but she couldn’t get a hold of her. Then, the next time I checked she was gone—”

“Yesterday, I was snooping in Madi’s things and found Brandon’s address. You know, the guy I found her with last time. She’s probably at his house. Wait a minute, and I’ll give it to you.”

A few minutes later, Susan rattled off an address across town. “I’d go, but the boys are sleeping. If you want to stay with them, I’ll get dressed.”

“No. Let me go. I’m already up and awake.”

Susan nodded. “If you drive there now, you might be able to catch her. I’ll wait for your call in case she comes home.”

“I’ll keep in touch.” Bryan jammed his cell phone into his coat pocket and strode to his car.

If he couldn’t find Madi, then what? She wasn’t solely his responsibility. Bryan’s neck heated. No, once he found her, he’d help her collect her things and drive her home where she belonged. Like it or not, Susan would need to learn how to be a single parent to all her kids, not just the ones she thought she could handle.

When it came down to it, Paul was at fault for walking away from his family, for the way Susan was acting, for Madi running away. Most of all, Bryan held Paul responsible for stopping him from getting on with his own life and proposing to Ashley.

Or was he shifting the blame?

Fifteen minutes later, Bryan stood at the threshold of a ranch-style house and pounded on the oak door. He didn’t care if he woke the whole house. He had to know if Madi was there. If he knew where to locate the boy’s room, he would skip the confrontation and tap on the kid’s window.

Several minutes later, the porch light flicked on and the door swung open. A middle-aged man wearing ratty sweat pants and an oversized T-shirt stood in front of him with a stern look on his face and a bat in his hand. “Who are you, and what do you want?”

“Do you have a son named Brandon?” Bryan asked, his voice strong and steady.

“Yeah, what’d he do this time?”

This time? Apparently, the boy wasn’t a stranger to trouble. “I need to know if he’s home.” Bryan swallowed hard. “And if my niece is with him.”

“That’s his car in the driveway. He’s been asleep for hours.”

Bryan didn’t believe him. The man’s eyes were shifty. “You sure? Mind checking?”

“Listen, mister, we don’t allow girls in his room. I’m not the best parent, but I draw the line.”

A change of tactic was in order. “Look, not long ago, Madison and Brandon skipped school. Spent the day downtown. I just need to know if she’s here.”

The man’s mouth twitched. “So I’m not the only one who has a difficult time keeping track of my kid.”

“She’s my niece. I’m helping my sister …”

“Okay, I get it.” He passed Bryan a knowing look. “It’s cold out. Want to step inside while I check?”

Bryan stuffed his hands into his coat pockets. “Thanks for the offer, but I’ll wait right here.”

“Suit yourself.” The door closed.

Bryan leaned against the worn siding, hoping Brandon’s father wouldn’t take too long. Thinking back on their conversation, it sounded as if the teenagers had the same tendency for making bad choices. Bryan hoped they hadn’t crossed the line physically, but he wouldn’t be surprised if they had. Madison was searching for attention, and Brandon was the type of guy to give it to her.

The creak of the front door startled him, and he stood erect.

Brandon’s father poked his head out. “Sorry to disappoint you, but your niece isn’t here.”

“You sure?” Bryan’s voice rose. “You’ve looked everywhere?”

“Brandon’s asleep. I’ve got to go to work in a couple of hours, and I’d like to go back to bed. You’ll need to look elsewhere.”

Bryan hung his head. “Sorry to bother you. I appreciate—”

The door slammed, cutting off his words. Fine. He deserved it after waking the man up and accusing his son of doing who-knows-what with Madi. And she wasn’t even here.

Now what was he going to tell his sister? He shook his head and marched to his truck. He kicked the back tire. For all he knew, Madi could have slipped inside the open window of his guest room and was sleeping now. Had he left it open?

He couldn’t remember.

16

Ashley pulled into the hospital parking lot, her stomach in knots. The sight of the four-story white building affected her the same way every time she drove past, today included. Too many painful memories here.

“Now I know why you didn’t want to mention anything.” Mom’s voice shook as they exited the car. “The whole way here I’ve been concocting all sorts of ideas on what may be wrong—and none of them have a good outcome.”

“Like you’ve said many times before, let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” Ashley said, trying to convince herself more than anyone. She locked the car doors then tucked her hand in the crook of her mom’s arm. They clung to each other as they entered Dominican Hospital.

The scent of bleach hit Ashley’s senses, and a wave of nausea threatened to take over, but she quickly tamped it down. She always thought she didn’t like hospitals because of her cancer, but now …

“The labor and delivery ward is to the left.” Mom tugged her in that direction.

The words she’d held in the whole way to the hospital slipped out. “Do you think Tori’s all right?”

“I don’t know, Ashley. Let’s find out.”

The nurse at the station directed them down the hall to room 2112.

Mom peeked her head in first then motioned for Ashley to follow her inside. The lights were dimmed. Tori’s eyes were closed and her chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm, but there was no sign of Drew or the baby. “I don’t want to wake her,” Mom whispered.

“She looks good, don’t you think?” Ashley whispered back.

“A few days ago, Tori told me that she hasn’t been sleeping well. Said she’s been so busy with work and the girls, and that she’s been having a hard time keeping up with everything at home.”

Ashley shifted her stance. “Why didn’t she call me? I could’ve helped.”

“Tori knows you have a full life—”

“But family is important. I’d do anything for my sisters.”

“I know you would, sweetie.” Mom smiled. “Come on. Let’s find Drew and my new grandson.”

Looking down at her sister’s sleeping form, Ashley had the urge to stroke her hair but held back. The baby must be fine. Otherwise, Tori wouldn’t have fallen asleep, right? Ashley bit back the question and slipped out of the room behind her mom.

They found Drew staring through the NICU window. His arms were tightly folded across his chest, and a worried expression lined his face. Once they got his attention, he enveloped them in a weary embrace.

Mom laid a hand on his shoulder. “Please tell me what’s going on.”

“The doctor said his oxygen saturation is low. That he might have been deprived during birth. They need to keep him here for observation.”

Mom hugged him once more. “And Tori? She’s asleep now, but …”

“She’s exhausted. She wanted to give birth naturally, but the baby wouldn’t cooperate. They gave her pain medication during the C-section. I told her I’d keep an eye on Max and that it was okay to fall asleep.”

Max.

Mom patted his arm. “You’re a good husband, Drew.”

Ashley listened to the pair and wanted to make everything better—or at least find the right words to say to her brother-in-law. From what she could assume, little Max might be brain damaged from the lack of oxygen.

She peered through the window at the small infant, who was bare except for the diaper and the small tubes and wires attached to his tiny frame.

“He’s beautiful,” Mom said. “He has his grandpa’s cleft chin. And look at those long toes!”

“The doctor said if Max’s brain can be cooled down below normal body temperature within the first six hours after birth, the cooling effect may interrupt critical neurological damage.” Drew sounded as though he’d memorized the doctor’s words. “See that blanket he’s lying on? It helps with the cooling process. The nurse keeps checking his vitals.”

“He’s in good hands,” Mom said.

“They told me it’s important for Max to rest the entire treatment and to keep interruptions to a minimum.”

Please, Lord, let him be okay. Ashley rested her hands against the glass. “Must be hard for you and Tori not to hold him.”

“It is.” His voice hitched. “I’m hoping by the time Tori wakes up the doctor will say our boy is fine.”

Mom rubbed Drew’s shoulder. “Why don’t you rest, too? I’ll stay here.”

Drew shook his head. “I don’t think I could sleep, but I’d like the company.”

“You’ve got it.” Mom hugged her purse to her chest. The two of them stared through the window at Max’s still form.

Ashley’s heart rate accelerated. The image of the small girl going down the hospital corridor buzzed through her mind as if she were three years old again and watching the scene unfold. If she could relive the moment, she’d stop them from taking her away. She’d scream, cry, and tear the wires and tubes away from her body so she could chase down the little girl who shared her past. Why, Lord? Why would You take her away from me?

“Will you do that, Ashley?” Mom’s question brought her back to the present.

“I’m sorry. What did you say?”

“Please call Dad and tell him what’s going on. I’d like him to keep the girls at home until we know more.”

Her dad’s existing high blood pressure couldn’t take the news. If only she could wait until the six hours were up and Max was declared healthy. Then again, Dad was a spiritual giant and had a direct line to God when it came to prayer.

“And if you could stop at the cafeteria and get us something to drink. Drew, what would you like? Coffee? Juice?” Mom dug in her purse and pulled out a twenty-dollar bill and handed it to Ashley.

“Coffee sounds good.” Drew smiled weakly.

Mom nodded. “I’d like one, too. Ashley, grab yourself a cup of whatever you’d like.”

Ashley was glad to help. At least she was doing something—something that wouldn’t change Max’s outcome but was helpful nonetheless.

If only she felt the same about the girl in the photo.

Who was she? And how could Ashley find out?

17

Daylight shone through the hall skylight and crept through the slits in the curtains. No Madison. Not at his house, not at the mall, and not with any of her friends. Bryan had called them all. Where could that girl be?

“I’m sorry, Susan. I failed you in a big way.” Bryan stroked Tanner beside him on the leather sofa, the phone clutched between his shoulder and ear. Even the dog’s soft fur couldn’t console him. “Where do we look now?”

“I called the police, and they told me to sit tight in case she comes home. But I don’t know if I can do that. I’m having a hard time—”

“I feel the same way. I want to be here in case she walks through that door, and yet I feel helpless.” Bryan slouched lower on the couch. “I wish she would answer her cell phone—” Oh, yeah, I took it away from her.

“Or call home,” Susan added.

A moment of silence passed between them.

“Have you heard from Paul?” Bryan squeezed his eyes shut, not knowing if now was a good time to bring up his wayward brother-in-law.

Susan sighed into the phone. “No, and I doubt I will. He’s made his choice, and it’s not his family.”

“I’m sorry, sis.” Bryan stood from his place on the couch and walked to the window. He peered out. Nothing but grass, trees, and the cracked paved road. Where was Madi?

“Me, too. Honestly, I don’t know what I could’ve done differently …”

Now was not the time to get into the details of why Susan’s marriage failed. Who was he to give advice on how to fix the situation? And at the moment, he was more concerned about Madison’s whereabouts, and he didn’t doubt Susan was, too. “I’m going out. There’s one more place I need to look—”

“Where?”

“I’ll let you know if I find her. Sit tight.” Bryan left it at that. Why worry his sister more than necessary?

He tucked his phone in his pocket, grabbed his keys off the kitchen table, and raced out the door.

Just as he’d hoped, Bryan found Madi at the bus station. The teenager sat huddled on a bench, her arms wrapped around bent knees. Thank goodness she hadn’t left yet. If his hunch was correct, she was bound to Las Vegas to find her father.

Madi spotted him. Was she going to bolt? He hurried his pace in case she took off. Instead, her shoulders drooped, and she hung her head.

He sat beside her, his words soft. “I’m glad I found you before it was too late.” Now was not the time for a scolding.

Madi nodded. She worked her lower lip with her upper teeth, a sure sign she was nervous.

“We’ll talk later. Ready to go home?” He’d figure out what type of consequence she’d receive after discussing it with Susan.

Madi gazed up at him, her expression pensive.

“Tanner will be happy to have you back. He’s been waiting for you in your room.”

“My room? I thought he wasn’t allowed.” Madi grabbed her duffle bag and followed Bryan to the car.

“I changed my mind. Seems like the pair of you are good for each other. Plus, if he’s not lonely, maybe he won’t make a mess during the night.”

“I know the feeling …” Madi muttered under her breath.

They buckled their seatbelts and headed home.

“Mom doesn’t have to know I snuck out, does she?”

“Madi, your mom already knows. I called her when I discovered you weren’t in your bed—”

“You called her?” Madi’s sour attitude returned.

Couldn’t she go ten minutes without turning on him? “Your mom has a right to know. You left in the middle of the night, and I couldn’t find you. I called your mom to see if you went home or if she had an idea where you might’ve gone.”

“She doesn’t care about me. If she did, she wouldn’t have let my dad leave—”

“You’re not being fair. What’s happening with your parents has nothing to do with you. Your parents love you and would never want you to run away—or make you feel like you have to pick sides.”

Madi crossed her arms. “If my mom loved me, she wouldn’t have made me live with you!”

Ouch! Those words hurt. “Believe me. Having you live with me wasn’t my first choice either.”

“I knew it! I knew you didn’t want me.”

“Madi, it’s not that. I’m a bachelor. I’m not used to taking care of a fifteen-year-old girl.”

“That’s obvious.” Madi stared out the side window.

He’d better get a handle on the conversation before it totally got away from him. Bryan relaxed his shoulders and loosened his death grip on the steering wheel. “I’m doing my best. You’ve got to give me some credit. I haven’t been doing this parenting thing long … and you haven’t been the easiest teenager.”

She shrugged a shoulder.

He needed to get through to her before they got out of the car. “I promise I’ll be more understanding if you promise me you won’t run away again. But you need to tell me what’s going on. No more secrets.”

Madi hesitated.

Would he ever know why his niece behaved the way she did? Doubtful.

“I want to live with Ashley.” Her blunt outburst broke the silence.

You and me both.

“Madi, please. What’s got you so worked up? Why won’t you tell me what’s going on?” He lifted his foot slightly off the gas pedal and slowed down the car. He’d take the long way home if Madi would open up.

“Can we stop at a convenience store?”

“Sure. What do you need?”

“It’s personal.”

His neck heated. “No problem.”

“Can I have twenty bucks?”

“All right.”

“And can you stay in the car while I go in the store?”

He pressed his lips together. Did he trust her? He glanced at her out of the corner of his eye. By the way her hands fidgeted in her lap, she was as uncomfortable as he was. “I’ll wait five minutes. Then I’m coming in.”

“It’ll take less than five. I know exactly where it is.”

It meaning something to take care of her monthly needs, he assumed. “Okay, Magpie. I’ll wait here.” He pulled to a stop in front of the store.

Please don’t disappoint me.

“Thanks, Uncle Bryan. I’ll be right back.”

The minute she walked into the store, he pulled out his cell phone and called his sister to let her know Madi was all right. He called Ashley next.

She answered on the first ring.

18

Kayla zipped her messenger bag, her medical books tucked neatly inside. She had one hour to go to the library and study her notes one last time before taking the microbiology exam. Jeremy promised to meet her with coffee in hand to quiz her, but after the last time they met, she wouldn’t doubt it if he stood her up.

True to his word, Jeremy was sprawled on the bench with two steaming cups by his side, his head bent over a small book.

She walked up to him, and he glanced up.

“Nice pedicure. Not that I notice that kind of thing.” He grinned.

Kayla smiled back. “If I fail the test, at least I have nice-looking toes. Thanks for meeting me.” She had to get a good grade if she had any hope of passing Microbiology.

He moved his books in a neat pile and handed her a coffee. “You’re not going to fail. In fact, I expect you to get a high score, not as high as mine, of course—”

“Okay, wise guy. That’s enough. Going through the notes once more will help.” She sat beside him and sipped her coffee. “Vanilla latte, my favorite. Thanks.”

“I’m sure you’ve gone over your notes a hundred times. What you need to do is relax.” He crossed an ankle over his knee and rested an arm behind her on the bench without making contact. Jeremy was naturally a physical person and was purposefully holding back, a change since last time.

But it was better this way.

After finals and the semester ended, she doubted she’d see much of Jeremy over the summer. He’d be busy working to pay for tuition, and she’d be doing the usual stuff: sewing, shopping, dining out, and hanging out with her friends—things she did every summer. Her parents had wanted her to take a summer class, but she’d convinced them she needed a break. A break from all things medically related.

She set her coffee on the bench, accidentally knocking her unlatched purse to the ground. The contents sprawled across the sidewalk.

“Here, let me help.” Jeremy bent over and picked up her small Coach bag then gathered her stuff. “How did you fit everything in here?”

Kayla joined him. “No making fun of a woman’s necessities.”

“Honestly, Kay, you don’t need makeup to be beautiful.”

“Spoken like a true friend.” Kayla shot him a grin. “But, yes, I do.”

“Hey, what’s this?” Jeremy picked up a piece of paper—or rather, the address for Ashley’s parents’ home. “Who do you know in Soquel?”

She had wanted to tell him about Ashley but not until exams were over or she had closed that chapter of her life. As it stood, she was still in limbo about whether or not to pursue meeting her biological sister face-to-face.

“Well?” Jeremy handed her the scribbled note. She’d written it in a hurry and her penmanship lacked its usual flare.

Kayla slid the paper into her purse. “You don’t have to know everything, do you?” Her teasing tone backfired.

Jeremy’s brows jutted together. “Are you seeing someone? Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Because there’s nothing to tell.” She placed the last remaining things—lip gloss and a couple of pens—back into her purse. “And no, I’m not seeing anyone.”

“Then what is it?”

True to her promise, Lauren hadn’t called lately, allowing Kayla to focus on her schoolwork. Maybe that was a sign to leave things alone. “Can we please just go over our notes one more time?”

“Only if you promise to tell me who the address belongs to.”

“I will after we take the test.” She whipped out flashcards from her backpack.

He studied her face. “Kayla, what’s going on? You haven’t been yourself lately.”

“Let’s just say it has thrown me for a loop. And it’s not wrapped up in a pretty bow.” Her attempt to make a joke and lighten the mood fell flat.

He cupped his hand around her shoulder then. “Should I be worried?”

The contact sent a warm jolt through her. She liked how attentive Jeremy could be. “No, not at all. But I appreciate your concern.”

He gave her shoulder a squeeze. “Okay, then hand me those flashcards. We’ve got forty-five minutes until class.

Forty-five minutes until she’d face her hardest exam. If she failed, she’d have to take the class over. And according to her parents, failure wasn’t an option.

She handed him the flashcards. “Jeremy, how do you do it? How are you so confident?”

He picked up the small book he had in his hands when she’d first arrived. “Can I share something with you? It’s from Philippians 4:13.”

He read her the verse from his Bible.

Could she really do all things through Christ? Did he really give her strength?

Jeremy pressed the pocket-sized book into her hands. “You keep it. I have another one at home.” His smile lifted her mood. “Read it, Kayla. Your life will never be the same.”

Was it Jeremy’s smile that made her feel lighter? Or was it the words he read?

Ashley huddled against the sofa’s corner cushion in the waiting room, her legs tucked underneath her as she and her mom waited for Drew and Tori to receive baby Max’s test results. She distracted herself by replaying her recent conversation with Bryan in her head. What a relief to know he’d found his niece. However, she might not have answered the call so quickly if she knew he was going to ask if Madi could move in with her. Would her grandma approve?

Instead she had expected the call to be from Lauren. The more Ashley thought about her sister’s suspicious behavior the other night, the more she wanted to know the real reason she had been up in the attic. Could she have been looking for the photo? Impossible. How could she have known the picture was in the trunk?

Drew burst into the room. “Praise God! The doctor thinks Max is going to be all right.”

“Halleluiah.” Mom tipped her head back, her hands clutched together in a prayerful pose. “So he’s okay? No long-term effects?”

“Max had some cardiac arrhythmia during the cooling process, but it’s resolved now that he’s re-warmed.” Drew sat in the chair opposite them. “The EEG looks within the normal range, but we won’t know the full scope of his oxygen loss until he starts to develop. For now, we’re thankful for the good news.”

“That’s awesome.” Ashley swung her legs around and brought her feet to the floor.

“What’s next?” Mom asked. “Can Tori feed him?”

“He still needs to be monitored, but after he’s re-warmed for 24 hours, they’ll feed him a small amount. They’ll do a swallow study to make sure it’s safe to breastfeed. In the meantime, Tori’s sitting next to him in the NICU. I’d love for the two of you to hold him, but unfortunately we’re supposed to keep interruptions to a minimum.”

“In other words, we won’t get to meet him today.” Mom’s disappointment was tangible.

“Mom, want to come with me to Tori’s house? Dad can bring you back in a little while. I’ll keep an eye on the girls until this afternoon when I need to go to work.”

“Dad and I should take the girls to our house so you can get some sleep. If you’re as tired as I am—” Mom covered a yawn.

Every inch of Ashley’s body ached. Her eyes felt like sandpaper, and she had a hard time holding her head up. “I would like to go home and take a nap.”

“I appreciate you two hanging out with me. I’ve never been so scared. And that’s hard for a man like me to admit.” Drew gave them a sheepish grin.

“No problem. That’s what family’s for.” Mom patted his shoulder then turned toward Ashley. “Ready to go.”

“I’ll get the car and text you when I’m out front.”

“Thank you, dear. I’d like to speak with Tori for a few minutes. Drew, do you mind wheeling her out of the NICU for me?”

“Not at all—if I can pry her away from Max.”

On the way to the car, Ashley punched in Lauren’s number on her cell phone. It was unusual for her sister not to be the first at the hospital, being the family-oriented person she was. As she walked out of the hospital’s lobby and into the crisp morning air, she nearly bumped into Lauren.

“Ashley!”

“Lauren, I’ve been trying to reach you.” Ashley slid her phone into her pocket.

“You and everyone else in the family. How’s Tori? The baby?” Her sister’s voice wobbled.

“Tori had a C-section. She’s fine, but little Max was oxygen deprived at birth. They cooled him down, and he appears to be doing okay. Time will tell.”

“I can’t believe I forgot to charge my phone. When I plugged it in this morning, I had a ton of messages.”

“Did you get the one from me?”

“Not yet. What’s up?”

“Maybe now’s not the right time.”

“What’s going on?” Lauren glanced at the hospital’s swinging door.

“Oh, no. Everything’s going to be fine with Tori and the baby—”

“Then what?”

Ashley let out a deep breath, opened her purse, and pulled out the photo. She handed it to Lauren. “Do you know who the little girl is?”

“Looks like you.” Lauren’s tone was steady.

“The other one, the toddler sitting beside me. Who is she?” Ashley studied Lauren’s face. If she was looking for the photo the other night, she wasn’t giving anything away now.

“I bet I can find out for you. Do you mind if I keep this for a while?”

Maybe she’d misjudged Lauren.

Ashley heart rate accelerated. “You’d do that for me?”

“You know me, Ash. I’d do anything for my family.” Lauren tucked the photo inside her jacket pocket.

“Whatever you do, don’t show Mom or mention it to Tori. I’ve already asked them—”

“You showed Mom? How’d she react?”

“Not good. Said she’s never seen the photo before. Honestly, she seemed threatened by the idea that I want to find her.”

Lauren’s brow twitched. “Do you really want to meet her?”

“More than anything.”

It appeared Lauren was about to say something more when Mom walked out of the hospital, interrupting their conversation. “There you are. I’ve been waiting for your text—”

“Oh, sorry. Look who I ran into.” Ashley bumped her sister’s shoulder.

Mom hugged Lauren. “Good to see you, honey, but you might as well turn around and go home. They’re not taking visitors right now.”

Lauren lifted a hand. “I was on my way to work when I finally got the message.”

“You look nice.” Mom changed the subject. “Is that a new outfit?”

“Thanks.” Lauren grinned. “The blouse and jacket are new, but not the pants or shoes.”

After being awake all night, Ashley needed a hot shower and a few hours’ sleep. And she still had to call Bryan back and give him an answer. The only way she could say yes to Madi living with her at the beach rental was if her grandmother approved. “Ready, Mom?”

“Definitely. I sure hope your father got some sleep, because I won’t be a good babysitter the way I feel.”

“Lauren, will you get back to me soon?” Ashley asked. “I’d love to talk with you some more …”

Her sister nodded. “I’m going to the hospital gift shop. I’ll see you two later.”

On the way to the car, Ashley’s mind whirled. She should have scanned the photo before giving it to Lauren. Would her sister be able to find the girl in the photo? And did Lauren know more than she was letting on?

19

The sound of barking dogs rubbed Ashley’s nerves raw.

She loved her job, but not today. Must be the lack of sleep. By the time she had settled under June’s handmade quilt on her grandmother’s king-sized bed, she was afraid she’d oversleep and be late to work, forcing her to forego her nap altogether. She couldn’t relax. And now she—or rather the animals—paid the price.

She cleaned kennels, filled bowls with food and water, and walked dogs around the block, her mind never far from the little girl in the photo.

A sharp squeal pierced the air.

“I’m sorry, Lucy. I didn’t mean to step on your paw.”

The tan Chihuahua sat on her hind end and wagged her tail.

“That’s what I love about you.” Ashley bent down and patted the pooch’s head. “You forgive and forget right away.” She picked up Lucy, carried her back to the shelter, and opened the door to the back entryway.

“There you are.” Jasmine, her co-worker, came up beside her. “There’s someone here looking for a Chihuahua, and I thought Lucy would be the perfect dog for her.”

“I hope she’s not looking for a purebred, because Lucy has a little Terrier in her, too.”

“She wouldn’t come to the shelter if she wanted a purebred,” Jasmine said. “The main thing is Lucy’s small and looks like a Chihuahua—”

“True.” Ashley ran her hand down the dog’s back. “Does she want an older dog? Remember Lucy’s seven.”

“Let’s hope so. I’d love to see her in a forever home. She’s been here a while.”

“I know.” Ashley unhooked the dog’s leash and handed her to Jasmine. “But Lucy is better off here than adopted by the wrong family. Does the woman have kids? Other dogs?”

“No to both. It’s just her and her husband. They’re retired and want a sweet little lap dog.” Jasmine nuzzled the side of her face against the top of Lucy’s head.

“We’ve got plenty of small dogs—”

“Trust me. I’m good at my job.” Jasmine cocked her head. “You have got to stop falling in love with every dog that comes in here.”

“I do not!” Ashley’s tone didn’t sound convincing even to her own ears.

“Relax. We all do.” Jasmine laughed. “Otherwise, we wouldn’t work at an animal shelter. It’s definitely not because of the pay.” She looked at Lucy and rubbed behind the dog’s ear. “C’mon, girl. Let’s see if the nice woman wants to take you home.”

As Jasmine walked away with Lucy, a lump lodged in Ashley’s throat. A memory of another small dog, a tan mutt with wiry hair, came to mind. Ashley leaned against the white brick wall, closed her eyes, and allowed herself to go back in time.

“No! Don’t pull her tail.” Ashley, three years old, called out to the toddler. She glanced at the woman in charge of the dog. Would she take him away?

Another woman, large with short dark hair and eyes narrowed, picked up the baby girl up from the floor. “We won’t come to visit your sister if you don’t behave—”

“Ashley, it’s a match.” Jasmine’s voice floated down the corridor, interrupting Ashley’s musings.

She grinned. “Good for Lucy.” Her smile broadened.

The little girl in the photo was definitely her sister.

Two hours later, Ashley slumped against the couch in the beach rental totally exhausted. Bryan had texted her throughout the day, waiting to hear whether Madison could move in.

Bryan had taken Tanner in a blink of an eye. Why didn’t Ashley respond the same way? As soon as the question flitted across her mind, the answer was clear. Madison would take up a lot of her extra time, time Ashley could be searching for the girl in the photograph.

Her cell phone buzzed on the end table. Ashley looked at the screen. “Hi, Grandma.”

“How are the scrapbooks coming along?”

“Slowly, but I’m making progress.” Ashley glanced at the dining room table. Photos, albums, and shoeboxes filled with more photos littered the space. To anyone else it might appear haphazard and disorganized, but not to Ashley. Everything had its place and she had a system—at least that’s what she was telling herself. “Are you sure you don’t want the albums to be digital?”

“Oh no, dear. I know computers are the way of things these days, but it’s not to my taste. I like to look at the real pictures.”

Ashley had gone over the benefits of creating digital books before, but Grandma was set in her ways. No convincing her now. “Speaking of pictures …” Did she dare ask? “I found one that interested me. It was in a box with my name on it?”

“I’m glad you found that box.” Grandma’s voice rose a bit. “I’ve been collecting the photos over the years. You were such a cute little girl, even with your bald head—”

“There’s a photo of me with a toddler. Looks professional, like it was done in a studio.” Ashley worked at keeping her voice even. “Do you know who she is?”

“A toddler? Hmm, I don’t remember.” Grandma hesitated. “Is it the one with Aunt Carol’s daughter?”

Her aunt and uncle lived on the east coast and rarely visited. Ashley only remembered them coming to California to take a vacation one summer.

“No, otherwise, Mom would’ve recognized her.” Ashley worked her bottom lip. “Are you sure you don’t remember who she is?”

“To tell you the truth, dear, I haven’t opened that box in years. You’ll have to show me the next time I come into town.”

If Lauren ever gives it back. “Will you be here on July 4th?”

“I enjoy the parade and barbeque in La Selva Beach, but—”

“Please come. It’s tradition.”

“I’ll have to see how I’m feeling. Lately my arthritis has been acting up even in this dryer climate.”

Ask about Madi. Bryan deserved her help after all he’d done to give Tanner a good home. And having the girl stay at the beach house might even help the teen go home faster, eliminating Bryan’s excuse to propose. “I’m thinking of having a teenager help me with the scrapbooks.”

“Is that so? And how will you pay them for their services? Kids don’t work for free anymore.”

“Bryan’s niece, Madison, has taken a liking to me. I thought we’d spend time together.”

“What a wonderful idea.”

“There’s more. Madi wants to move into the beach rental, and I thought scrapbooking for room and board would be a good trade—like you give me.” Her skin tingled. Was she asking too much?

“Hmm, I don’t know. Teenagers take long showers and are hard on furniture.”

“I’ll take responsibility for the water bill and any furniture that might get ruined. Although I doubt that will happen—”

“Ashley, what aren’t you telling me?”

Might as well tell Grandma the whole story. “Madison’s parents are separated, and she’s having a rough time. Her father left, and she doesn’t want to live with her mom. Bryan’s doing his best to care for his niece, but Madi asked to live with me. I didn’t feel right about allowing her to move in without your permission.”

“Rightly so.” Grandma’s tone softened. “It sounds like she needs a safe haven. I’ve always thought of the beach house in that way.”

“I’ll be honest. When Bryan asked, I was hesitant myself. I don’t know if I’m ready to take on someone with so many needs.”

“You’ll do just fine.” Grandma’s voice held a smile. “And your idea to get her working on the scrapbooks is a fine one. She won’t feel like she’s free loading that way.”

“You sure you don’t want me to give you money?”

Grandma laughed. “I wasn’t implying anything about our arrangement.”

“In that case, can I ask one more favor?”

“What’s that, dear?”

“Can you please remind Lauren about our agreement? She wasn’t happy when I moved in. She said as much the other night when she was up in the attic.”

“Up in the attic?”

“Yes. Didn’t you send her over to look for something?”

“No, but she does manage the house. I assume she had a reason.”

“I suppose.” Even as she said the words, a strange feeling gripped her, but she shrugged it off. Must be from exhaustion.

After Ashley hung up the phone, she sent Bryan a text.

TALKED WITH GRANDMA.

MADI CAN COME. XO, ASH

She leaned her head against the sofa pillow and closed her eyes, hoping and praying this was the right decision.

20

“I know I promised I wouldn’t call you until finals were over, but there’s been a new development. Call me.”

Kayla listened to the voicemail message at least a half dozen times. Lauren’s words came out in a rush, like she couldn’t get them out fast enough. Well, Kayla could wait. Why dig into her past when she had four more exams?

The first one had been a disaster.

She couldn’t fault Jeremy’s tutoring for her lack of concentration. The questions were foreign and the multiple-choice answers blurred together, each one sounding like the correct one. When it came time to fill in the written portion, Kayla had wanted to throw her paper in the trash, knowing full well she was not going to pass.

But a cursory glance at Jeremy stopped her, and she completed the test. She gave it everything she had. If she failed, she’d confront her parents, tell them medicine wasn’t for her, and she wouldn’t become a doctor. Yes, she’d risk the hurt in their eyes and the lecture that would follow, but she couldn’t keep on pretending she was someone she wasn’t.

For the next week, she studied around the clock and stayed away from Jeremy. She didn’t want to explain the address, her past, or why becoming his girlfriend wouldn’t work. With a new resolve, Kayla deleted the phone message. She couldn’t have any distractions, urgent or not.

The day after her second exam, she handed in her paper, hurried out of the classroom, and went to Café La Flore on Clement Street. The restaurant buzzed with activity. Each table was filled with students or people of varying ages, most she didn’t recognize. Hopefully, she’d blend in with the crowd. She took a seat at the counter.

“Tough morning?” The waitress handed her a menu.

Kayla nodded. “You have no idea.”

She poured Kayla a cup of coffee. “This one’s on the house.” She winked. “Need me to give you a minute?”

“No. I know exactly what I want.” Kayla closed the menu. “Can I have an ALT sandwich, please?” The avocado, lettuce, tomato, and mozzarella on a sweet roll was just what she needed to forget her morning.

“Would you like soup or salad with that? It’s split pea today.”

“Soup, please. And no chips.” Kayla had eaten enough ice cream the other night to max out her junk food quota for the week.

“You’ve got it.” The waitress took the menu and placed the order on the hanging carousel.

“Think I’d let you get away that easily?” Jeremy whispered in her ear then sat beside her on the adjacent stool.

Kayla let out a breath then gave him a hard stare.

“Didn’t mean to scare you.” Jeremy laughed. “You do realize you come here every week after class.”

Kayla cringed. Was she that predictable?

“Listen, I won’t stay if you need to be alone, but Kay, you don’t need to run away from me. I’ll give you your space if you ask.”

Did she want to be alone? As much as she didn’t want to explain anything to Jeremy, his presence calmed her anxious heart. “I’ll let you stay on one condition.”

“Name it.”

“We don’t talk.”

“But you said you’d tell me—”

Kayla held up a hand, stopping him from saying anything more. “Take it or leave it.”

Jeremy paused before answering. “I’m not going to wait around forever. If you can’t confide in me, then we don’t have the type of relationship I thought we had.”

She couldn’t control the hurt she saw in his eyes, but she could control what, how much, and when she was willing to open up. Sitting beside him at the counter of a busy restaurant was not the place, nor was it the time when her brain was mush.

She might tell him too much.

She might open her heart.

She might tell him what he meant to her.

Right now, after failing another exam, she couldn’t let him see how flawed she was. “I understand if you want to leave.” She eked out the words. Please, Jeremy, stay. More than anything, she needed a friend.

“You drive a hard bargain, but okay. We’ll sit here and not talk. In fact, we’ll act like strangers. Just two people who happen to be sitting beside each other in a restaurant.”

He looked forward, ignoring her.

Kayla squirmed in her seat, feeling more alone than before Jeremy came in and sat down beside her.

Kayla stepped out of her Audi parked in her parents’ driveway and released a heavy breath. Lunch with Jeremy had been a disaster. Not only had he ignored her, but he didn’t even look at her while he ate or after he paid his bill. Just walked out without a backward glance. Studying with Jeremy was her only hope of passing her classes. And now she’d blown it. She ruined their friendship, one she was discovering meant more to her than she realized.

All afternoon, she debated whether or not to tell her parents she was flunking out of school. Why prolong the misery? The question pushed her to get in her car and drive to her parents’ house. Now as she stood on the front steps, she questioned whether or not this was a good idea.

Dad opened the door before she touched the knob. “Kayla, good to have you home. Done with the semester?”

The security cameras must be on. “Almost.”

He welcomed her in and gave her a quick hug, not long enough but she’d take any affection he passed her way. It was a rare occurrence.

“Where’s Mom?” Kayla looked around the corner of the entryway to the kitchen. Her parents had a cook, so the likelihood of finding her mother in the kitchen was slim.

“Work. She’s been picking up extra shifts. You know your mother, always needing more money to spend.”

Her parents had forked out a huge amount on her education, and she was about to throw it all away. Guilt wormed its way through. “I was hoping you’d both be here, but maybe it’s better this way.”

“What’s going on? Did you find an intern program for the summer?” Dad turned the television off and sat on the recliner, his favorite chair.

Kayla looked out the French doors to the backyard. The pathway to the gazebo always beckoned her as a girl, and it called to her now. Without a sibling to play with, she hid under the covering of the gazebo to talk with her imaginary friend. Kayla would stay outside for hours, sharing her most private secrets. A pang twisted her insides. She wished she hadn’t deleted Lauren’s message. What did she say again? A new development?

“Kayla? Did you hear me?”

She turned away from the window and sat on the overstuffed sofa. “Sorry, Dad. Just lost in my own thoughts.”

“What brings you by? Everything okay at school?”

Kayla shook her head. The words wouldn’t come.

“I remember studying for exams like it was yesterday. I walked around like a zombie for a week.” Dad grinned. “I studied and studied without much sleep. By the looks of you, you’re doing the same thing.”

What she needed was a good long soak in her parents’ Jacuzzi tub and a nap in her old bed until her mom returned home. She’d tell her parents her school plans later.

A shudder ran through her. Witherspoons never gave up.

Then again, she wasn’t really a Witherspoon.

21

Ashley set Madi’s sleeping bag and pillow on the wicker chair in the corner of the guest room. “So this is it. What do you think?”

Madi looked around. “Nice. So much bigger than at Bryan’s place.” She dropped her duffle bag on the floor and plopped down on the twin bed. “Can I ask you a question?”

“Sure. What’s on your mind?”

“How do you know when you’re ready to be with a guy?”

Had Madison asked her what she thought she had? “Excuse me?”

Madi didn’t waste time. “You know, have sex.” The girl’s cheeks tinged pink.

Ashley wanted to call Bryan to take the teenager back. She wasn’t prepared to have this kind of talk. She lowered herself next to Madi on the edge of the bed. “How long have you been dating?”

Madi grinned. “Brandon and I’ve been going out a couple of months.”

“Brandon, huh?”

“Yeah, he’s amazing.” Madi hugged a pillow to her chest. “We have so much fun together.”

Ashley fidgeted with the clasp of her bracelet. “What do you two like to do?”

“Sometimes we sneak out of school and go to the beach or to the mall.”

Does Bryan know? Do your parents? “Really? You skip class and take off?” The question came out more like a statement, like it was a normal thing to do.

“Yeah. We’re both smart, so it doesn’t matter.” Madi shrugged a shoulder. “We can always catch up later.”

“I see.” Ashley smiled weakly. In her high school years, she’d thought about skipping class but could never do it. Chalk it up to being overly practical. She hated getting behind and having makeup work to do. “So, what kind of grades do you get?” She kept her tone light to keep from sounding like the girl’s mom. That would be one sure way to stop the flow of conversation.

“Mostly A’s, but lately …” Madi averted her eyes and tossed the pillow on the floor. “I don’t know …”

Ashley scrambled for the right words to keep the girl talking. “So tell me more about Brandon.”

The girl’s eyes brightened. “He’s so cute. Want to see a picture?” Madi whipped out her cell phone from her jeans pocket. She scrolled through the photos. “Here’s the best one.” She turned the screen toward Ashley.

The seductive look on Brandon’s face made Ashley’s skin crawl. Looking closer, she noted a tattoo on his upper left arm. Was he even eighteen? And was that a beer bottle in the background?

“Isn’t he cute?” Madi cut off her thoughts.

She had to say something. “He has a nice dimple.”

“I know, right?” Madi giggled. “And his eyes are gorgeous.”

Ashley agreed. “They are nice—”

“The picture doesn’t even do them justice.”

“How old is he?” The question slipped out, sounding more patronizing than Ashley meant.

“He’s a senior, only a few years older than me.” Madi met her gaze. “Oh no, not you, too.”

“What do you mean?”

“You’re just like my mom.” She turned off her phone and slid it into her pocket. “You think he’s too old for me.”

Did she? At their age, yes. It was different when two people reached adulthood.

Madi crossed her arms. “How much older is Uncle Bryan?”

“Three years.” Ashley forced a smile.

Madi lifted a hand. “And you guys are perfect for each other, like me and Brandon.”

Ashley was on a tightrope. One wrong step and she’d careen to the ground below. Better to get back to Madi’s earlier question before it was too late. “So, what makes you think you’re ready for sex?”

Madi shook her head. “Oh, not me. I could wait forever.”

Ashley crinkled her brow. “Is Brandon pressuring you?”

The girl’s right eyebrow twitched. “He says it’s the next step in a relationship and the natural thing to do.” She bit the corner of her lip. “People do it after they date a while, right?”

Ashley didn’t want to lie. “Some people do.” Most people.

“Do you and Bryan?”

Not that it was any of the girl’s business, but, thankfully, she could be truthful. “No, Bryan and I are waiting. We want to be married first.” As she said the words, a knot formed in the pit of her stomach. Didn’t Bryan think she was beautiful? He’d been so adamant that they stay pure. Said he didn’t want to repeat past mistakes. Most of the time she appreciated his commitment, but other times, she questioned whether he was drawn to her in that way. Is that what’s holding him back?

Madi’s eyes widened. “Wow, I don’t think Brandon could wait that long.”

“What about you?” The words tumbled from Ashley’s lips.

“Me?” Madi turned away. “Brandon is the best thing that’s ever happened to me, and I don’t want to lose him.”

“I know it’s hard to wait.” Ashley spoke the words for herself as much as for Madi. “But you don’t want to lose part of yourself in the process.”

The teenager stared at the bed, her fingers following the design on the comforter.

How could Ashley make Madi understand? A long-ago conversation with her mom, more like a stern warning, came to mind. Might as well get the words out. The girl clearly needed direction. “Imagine putting two different colors of Play-doh together. No matter how hard you try, you’ll never be able to separate them. The colors will always be a part of each other. Having sex is the same way.”

“So if Brandon and I do it, we’ll be a part of each other forever?” Madi stopped tracing, a hint of a smile lighting her face.

Oh no! She hadn’t meant to encourage her. Bryan would flip. “But if you married someone else, you’ll never be able to share that special bond only with your husband. Bryan, why didn’t you wait for me? You do want to get married one day, don’t you?”

Madi unfolded her legs and stood from the bed. “People get married and divorced all the time. They find someone new. Why should I wait to get married when I might get divorced anyway?” She turned toward the window.

Ashley swore she saw tears filling Madi’s eyes. Was this about Brandon or the girl’s parents? This mentoring thing was a lot harder than she’d anticipated. And she hadn’t gotten to the real reason why two people should wait—because God loves his children and wants to protect them from sin, hurt, and possible disease.

Teenagers were tricky. If she said too much now, Madison might not open up to her again. She pulled a Bible out of the nightstand drawer and set it on top, hoping her actions might prompt the girl to open it. One day at a time.

But Madison wasn’t looking.

Ashley nibbled on the corner of her lip. “Why don’t we talk more about this later?”

No response.

“Want to go down to the beach?”

Madi shrugged a shoulder and swiped at her eyes.

After staying at the hospital last night and working all day, Ashley was spent and would rather curl up on the sofa and read a book. She might even fall asleep. Truth was, she wanted to spend time with Bryan, but he hadn’t wanted to stay. Said he needed time to himself after spending way too much time with his niece. Was he completely avoiding her now?

“C’mon. Let’s go by the ocean.” Ashley prodded. “I’ve got a couple of beach chairs by the front door.”

How long had it been since she and Bryan had an evening to themselves? Three weeks? Four?

Too long. Much too long.

Kayla’s room hadn’t changed since she was a teenager. Lavender and bold aqua stripes still covered the walls, a high school weekend project. She punched in Lauren’s number, but ended the call when a steady knock sounded on her bedroom door. She peeked over the covers. “Come in.”

Mom entered. Her purposeful stride made the hair on the back of Kayla’s neck stand on end. Dad must have told her she was struggling with her exams.

Kayla pushed herself to a seated position. “Before you say anything …”

“Yes?” Mom stood over her now, hand on hip.

“I haven’t been sleeping and needed a nap in my old bed. I feel much better now—”

“You couldn’t sleep in your apartment? We pay good money. Maybe you should move back home.”

Why did her mom always change the situation around? Kayla pushed the covers aside, strode to her dresser, and ran a brush through her hair. “That’s not what I meant. School’s been tough—”

“If it were easy, anyone could become a doctor. Only the best and brightest survive.” Mom expelled a breath. “Honestly, Kayla, we’ve given you every opportunity to succeed. You have no excuses.”

Kayla had heard that speech before. Countless times. Next, her mom would describe how she got straight A’s and put herself through medical school. It was the same lecture every time.

“Dad understands,” Kayla muttered, setting the brush down.

Mom’s eyebrow twitched. “So now I’m the bad guy?”

“Is there something else you wanted? Because I need to study.” Her words were clipped. That should put a stop to her mother’s ramblings. The moment the thought entered her brain, she realized she’d overstepped. Why make her mom madder than she already was? “I’m sorry. That came out wrong.”

Mom swatted the air, dismissing her. “I spoke with Professor Collins at the hospital—”

“Oh, so now you’re checking up on me?” Kayla’s palms grew moist and panic rose in her throat. “I thought you were going to stay out of it and let me go through the program on my own.”

“Kayla, listen to me. He thinks you have great potential, but lately something’s distracting you. He said you haven’t been doing your best work.”

That was an understatement.

How could she go through med school when she dreamed of designing her own clothes? But her confusion about her career choice wasn’t the only reason she was distracted. Since Lauren told her she had a biological sister, Kayla had a hard time staying focused.

“So what is it? What’s got you slipping up?” Mom stepped closer. She reached her hand up as though she was going to stroke her hair but just as quickly let her arm dangle to her side.

Professor Collins must not have told her mom the extent of her low grades. If so, her mother’s concern would turn to anger. It was only a matter of getting the words out. Kayla’s mouth went dry, as though she’d swallowed a mouthful of sand. “Jeremy.” How she needed to talk with her friend.

“Jeremy? As in your lab partner?”

Kayla winced. Had she said his name out loud?

“What did he do? Is he trying to sabotage you?” Mom grimaced.

“No.” Kayla shook her head. “You’ve got it all wrong.”

Mom leaned a hand on the dresser, inching closer. “Do I?”

Could she allow Jeremy to take the blame? What kind of a friend was she? A desperate one, but she wouldn’t hurt his chance of succeeding. “Jeremy has nothing to do with this.”

“Kayla, I will find out the truth.”

“What are you going to do?” Her voice shook.

“Professor Collins and I go way back. We’ll figure this out. In the meantime, please do your part and find a way to make up your grades—an article, an extra lab, anything to show him you’re serious about becoming a doctor. And please, stay away from Jeremy.”

As if she had a choice. He wasn’t planning on hanging around her anytime soon.

22

“I’m telling you, Pete, I’ve only had a couple of opportunities since I bought the ring, and I chickened out every time.” Bryan swung the bat and missed.

The church softball game was about to start. They only had a few minutes to practice. Ashley promised she’d come with Madi, and he’d need every pitch if he didn’t want to make a fool of himself.

“You love her, right?” His friend picked up the ball and threw it to their teammate.

“Of course I love her. I wouldn’t have bought the ring if I didn’t.”

“Then why the delay?”

Good question. If Bryan could figure out the true reason for his reluctance, he’d be one step closer to becoming a married man. He lifted his right elbow a little higher in preparation for the pitch. This time he connected with the ball and sent it sailing into left field. The ball landed in his teammate’s mitt.

“Good hit.” Pete called from behind. “You didn’t answer my question. Why wait? If you take too long to ask her, she might move on and start dating someone else.”

Bryan gave Pete a hard stare. “Like who?”

Pete laughed. “Relax. I don’t know anyone. Just saying you might want to speed things along. You two have been going out what … two years?”

“Three.” Bryan dug his right foot into the dirt and swung the bat around a couple of times.

“One more, Miller. Then it’s Pete’s turn to practice,” the pitcher called and then lobbed a high pitch into the air.

The ball was far from being a strike, but Bryan swung anyway. He tipped it, sending it backward into Pete’s glove.

“Want me to help?”

“I don’t know.” Bryan set the bat down against the wire fence and removed the protective helmet. “What do you have in mind?”

“Last week you told me your niece’s been putting a damper on your love life. Why don’t you drop her off at my house? You know, so the two of you can go out. Take her out to a romantic dinner—”

“How would I convince Madison? You and Shelly don’t have kids.”

“Good point.”

Besides, I used to date your wife. How awkward would that be? “It’s not that I don’t appreciate the gesture.” Bryan picked up his glove. “Honestly, my sister needs to get her act together so Madison can go home. Did I tell you Madi ran away? I found her at the bus station.”

“You’re kidding—”

“Then she begged me to let her stay with Ashley.”

“Makes sense.”

“But I’m back to the same predicament. Ashley and I don’t have any time alone.”

“The offer still stands.”

“Have any teenaged relatives?”

“Sorry, man, my oldest niece is six.”

No answer was in sight. Until his sister’s life was back on track, he’d wait it out. The teams gathered in the infield for prayer.

While the referee prayed, Bryan said a prayer of his own—for endurance, strength, and wisdom. And a homerun in front of Ashley would be nice, too.

Where was she?

“I don’t want to go.” Madi put her earbud back in her right ear, turned her attention back to the magazine she was reading, and mouthed the words to the song on her mobile device. The beat boomed a steady rhythm, loud enough for Ashley to hear.

Babysitting a teenager was hard work.

She couldn’t trust Madi to stay at the beach house while she went to the softball game, but she’d told Bryan she’d come.

An idea sparked. She tapped Madison’s shoulder.

The girl shot her an annoyed look. “Yeah?”

“We could stop at Bryan’s house and pick up Tanner. I haven’t seen him in a couple of days, and it would be good for him to run around after the game.”

Madi’s facial features softened, and a smile lit her face. “Then can we bring him here?”

“I’d love to, but I can’t. My grandma owns this house, and she’s allergic to dogs.”

“I don’t see your grandmother.” Madi looked around for dramatic effect. “What she doesn’t know can’t hurt her, right?” She sent Ashley a mischievous grin.

“It doesn’t work that way—”

“C’mon. Just one night?”

“Believe me. I’ve asked. Grandma knows how much I love animals, especially dogs, but this is her house and as hard as it is I need to respect her rules.”

Madi rolled her eyes and looked away. “I guess.”

“Let’s hurry. If we leave now, we’ll only miss a few minutes of the game.”

Madi turned the music off and snagged a sweatshirt. “We’re getting Tanner first, right?”

Ashley nodded. “Bryan’s house is on the way.”

The sweet aroma of victory.

Bryan couldn’t help but scan the small crowd every few minutes. Where was she? Typically, Ashley showed up at least by the top of the second inning, but it was already the bottom of the fourth and still no sign of her. Was Madi giving her trouble? He didn’t doubt it. An image of Madi’s petite frame huddled on the bench at the bus station came to mind. Had she run away again?

“Miller, you’re up,” the team captain called. “We need a run. Get Pete home.”

Bryan glanced at his friend on second base and gave him the fist pump, their signal to hit it over the fence. Of course, he’d have to connect with the ball first.

A dog barked, drawing his attention to the chain-link fence bordering third base. Tanner? How did he not see them before? Ashley waved. Wow, I miss spending time with her.

The dog barked again. He pulled away from Ashley, bounded past the other team, and slipped in through the gate and onto the field, his leash dangling behind him.

“Tanner, no!” Ashley’s stern reprimand went unnoticed.

“Hey!” The referee and longtime elder of the church called out. “Whose dog is that?”

Bryan whistled. “Come here, boy.”

“That your dog, Bryan?”

“Mine and Ashley’s. Really her dog, but I’m taking care of him at my place.”

“You know what they say.” He grinned. “People that own an animal together, stay together.”

“That so?”

“Yeah. When are you two going to tie the knot?”

The question had come up on several occasions over the years, mostly from the older members of the church. Heat radiated under Bryan’s jersey and up his neck. “I’d better get Tanner.”

“You do that.” The ref’s words retreated into Bryan’s back as he hustled to left field where Tanner stood, marking his territory. He cringed. Dogs didn’t have any discretion.

“Sorry about that.” Ashley came up beside him. Her apology hung in the air like a softball in flight.

Bryan caught it and winked. “It’s all right. Tanner’s bringing a little excitement to the game.” He snatched the dog’s collar before he got away again.

Ashley took hold of the leash. “It was my idea to bring him. Next time, we’ll leave him home.”

Home. Sounded as if he and Ashley were already married. The thought thrilled and terrified him at the same time. “Probably a good idea, but no harm done.”

“Except for the wet spot on the field,” she joked back.

“C’mon, lovebirds. Hurry it up!” the third baseman called. “I’m waiting to get Pete out.”

Ashley tugged on the dog’s leash, but he resisted. “Not now, Tanner.”

“Here, let me help.” Bryan took the leash and called the dog forward. The dog went willingly.

“How’d you do that?” Ashley kept pace off the field.

“He knows me better.” Bryan hadn’t meant to dig it in, but that’s exactly how it sounded.

“So he’s your dog now?” she countered.

“No.” Bryan sent her an are-you-kidding look. “That came out wrong.”

Ashley smirked and raised a brow.

“Let’s play ball.” The referee motioned Bryan toward home plate.

Bryan smiled. “Wish me luck. It’s my turn at bat.”

“You’re going to need more than luck, Miller.” Her words echoed his captain. She leaned toward him and kissed his cheek before slipping through the side gate with Tanner.

The attention from his girl gave him more adrenaline than a shot of espresso. If he didn’t knock it out of the park now, he’d never hit a homerun. He ran to home plate, planted a helmet on his head, and grabbed a bat.

Then why couldn’t he propose?

23

Kayla crumpled in a heap on the sofa. Her life had become a series of disappointments. If it weren’t for her best friend’s party tonight, she’d consider wallowing all night with a gallon of ice cream and a stack of her favorite movies.

Since visiting her parents a week ago, she’d not only finished her exams but had steered clear of Jeremy, a feat that nearly broke her heart. If only he understood what mentioning his name did to his reputation. Some friend she was. To think Jeremy considered her girlfriend material. At this point, she had no idea if he’d ever speak to her again or if her mom had called Dr. Collins, but it was too late now.

Kayla rubbed her eyes on the corner of the pillow. If her eyes didn’t stop leaking, her nose would remain red all night.

The pile of mail from the past week littered the coffee table. She fingered through it looking for something to cheer her up—a magazine, a coupon to her favorite store, a rebate check—anything. Instead, a handwritten envelope caught her eye.

No return address. Strange.

She flipped it over, stuck her finger under the flap, and opened it. She pulled out the contents. A sticky note covered a photo.

Kayla, I thought you might like to see proof Ashley is your sister.

Call me. Lauren.

Through misty eyes, Kayla brought the picture closer to her face and studied the photo. They wore matching sundresses and had the identical shade of auburn hair. When Lauren had first called her, Kayla doubted Ashley was her biological sister, but seeing her in person—and now the photo—confirmed Kayla had a sibling, someone with the same genes. And for some reason two separate families had adopted them.

From what she’d seen, Ashley had the perfect life—a big family, an attentive boyfriend, and a cozy home near the beach. Why would she want a relationship with someone who failed at every turn?

Kayla put the photo in the envelope and forced herself to get ready for Chloe’s party. She’d deal with her feelings later when she’d had her fill of laughter and encouragement from her good friends—the real people in her life that accepted her the way she was, not from a sister she’d never met.

Kayla spiral curled her hair, put on makeup, and added false eyelashes, a layer of lipstick, and dangly earrings. She slipped into her sequined top, black skinny jeans, and four-inch stilettos—a little overboard for her group of female friends, but dressing up made her feel good. Polished. Put together.

All she needed now was a mood adjustment.

On the way out the door, she snagged the photo off the coffee table and slipped it inside her purse. If the right moment presented itself, she’d ask Chloe what she thought she ought to do. Or not do.

Maybe tonight was about having a good time. An escape. A night to celebrate her best friend.

Fifteen minutes later, Kayla stepped inside Chloe’s apartment and her mouth gaped open. This was no simple affair. Shiny silver, white, and pink balloons clung to the ten-foot ceiling, their curly streamers spiraling down. Round tables covered with brightly colored tablecloths, white china, and flower arrangements filled the room. Smooth jazz cooed from the speakers.

“Hey, Kayla.” Chloe pulled her into a sisterly hug and then gestured to the beautiful space. “Nice, huh?”

“I’d say, but I thought you were going simple this year.” Kayla removed her lightweight sweater and set it, along with her purse, on the bench inside the door.

“You know me. One thing leads to another, and I get carried away. Actually, it’s Heather’s fault.”

“Heather’s here?”

“You’ve never met my big sister, have you?” Chloe linked arms. “She’s on the back deck. I’ll introduce you.”

As much as Chloe talked about her sister, Kayla felt as though they’d already met.

“I’m glad you came a little early. I wanted to talk to you about something …”

“Me, too.” Kayla wanted to show Chloe the photo and tell her about Ashley. She’d kept the secret from everyone since she’d found out, and the silence was killing her. She had to tell someone, and Chloe was the most understanding and stable friend she had.

Chloe pulled back the wispy white curtain and stepped out on the back deck, pulling Kayla behind her.

An older version of Chloe sat on a bistro chair, a mug of something to drink between her hands on the small round table, her strappy sandals off to the side. “This party better start soon, because my feet hurt already. Oh, hey—”

“Heather’s been running around all day. I couldn’t have pulled off this party without her.” Chloe leaned over and gave Heather a hug, squeezing her hard enough to make her shoulders hunch together. “Everyone should have a big sister like you.”

“Okay, okay. Enough already.” Heather wiggled free and gestured. “This must be Kayla?”

“Yeah, how’d you know?” Chloe asked.

“You’ve talked about her enough times, and she fits your description—auburn hair, porcelain complexion, and an amazing sense of style.” Heather lifted the mug to her lips, the lemon scent wafting through the air. “My sister tells me you like to design your own clothes.”

“When she’s not too busy studying to be a doctor,” Chloe added.

“A doctor?” Heather leaned back in her chair. “I’m impressed.”

Kayla lifted her shoulders then let them drop. “If you only knew …”

Chloe nudged her. “Hey, don’t spoil it. Heather’s pretty good at figuring people out. And she’s got the gift of encouragement. If I’m ever feeling down, she’s the person I call.”

Jealousy crept inside and threatened to take over, but Kayla squelched it down before it would ruin her night.

“Now if you’d only come to visit,” Heather said.

“Chloe, I can’t believe you don’t go see your sister.” Kayla scolded, her tone harsher than she intended. Where did that come from? She should talk. Here she found out she had a biological sister and couldn’t come to grips with meeting her face-to-face. “So Heather, where do you live?”

“Santa Rosa. I’d love to have you and Chloe spend the weekend some time. It’s only an hour’s drive.”

For a minute, Kayla thought she was going to say Santa Cruz, the county where Kayla’s sister lived. She shook off the odd sensation. “Now that it’s summer break, Chloe and I’ll definitely come. Won’t we?” Maybe if she spent time with Heather, she’d discover if she was sister material.

“We’ll see …” Chloe hedged.

“Chloe doesn’t want to run into David.” Heather took another sip of her tea. “He still lives around the corner from me and works for his dad’s construction company.”

Kayla furrowed her brows. “David, as in your old high school flame? I thought you were over him years ago—”

“Enough about my love life, or lack of one.” Chloe tucked a strand of curly brown hair behind her ear and toyed with her earring.

“Okay, we’ll leave you alone.” Kayla held up a hand. “Is there anything I can help you with before the party?”

Chloe’s eyes brightened. “Yes. Come into the kitchen, and I’ll show you what needs to be done.”

Kayla smiled at Heather and followed Chloe inside. “You said there was something you wanted to tell me?”

They nearly ran into Jeremy as he whipped around the corner from the kitchen, carrying a chilled bottle of something sparkly along with two goblets.

“I thought this was an all-female party.” The words slipped out, and instantly, Kayla regretted them.

The hurt in Jeremy’s eyes was evident, but he quickly composed himself and handed the glassware to Chloe. “Thought you might want something to drink before your guests arrived.” How cozy. Is this what Chloe wanted to tell her. That she was interested in Jeremy?

“But you’re not staying, right?” Kayla should’ve tried to keep the panic from her voice, but she couldn’t help it. She needed to have one night where she could let her guard down.

“Kayla,” Chloe whispered and tossed her a hard stare. Like keeping her voice down could prevent Jeremy from hearing her when he was less than two feet away. “Actually, that’s what I wanted to tell you. I switched things up a bit and invited more people—some guys.” She leaned in. “If I’m ever going to get over David, I need to put myself out there, right?”

So much for having a relaxing evening.

Chloe cut into her thoughts. “You know what? I think I can handle things in the kitchen. Why don’t the two of you enjoy a glass before the guests arrive?”

So her best friend wasn’t interested in Jeremy after all.

With everything that had been happening lately, Kayla didn’t have a chance to tell Chloe about the rift between them. Her friend was only trying to be kind, but it placed Kayla in an awkward position. Jeremy, too.

“You don’t need me to hang any more lights? Blow up any more balloons?” Jeremy shrugged his shoulders.

Chloe pointed at him. “Hey, you’re the one who got the time wrong. If you hadn’t shown up early, I wouldn’t have put you to work.”

Heather came into the room. “Okay, sis. What else needs to be done?”

“See, I’ve got my help.” Chloe wrapped an arm around her sister’s shoulder. “Go out on the deck, you two. It’s a beautiful night.”

“Shall we?” The tentative glint in Jeremy’s brown eyes pulled her in. If he could put aside how she’d treated him the last week, she could spend a few minutes alone with him. For Chloe’s sake.

“All right. One glass.” She led him outside and chose the chair closest to the door in case she had the urge to escape. She fidgeted with her hands in her lap.

“You don’t need to be nervous. I don’t bite.” Jeremy opened the bottle and poured the liquid evenly in both goblets. A few drops landed on the table.

“Who’s nervous?” Kayla motioned to the spill. Her mouth twitched, trying to hold back a smile. Jeremy was always fun to tease.

“Apparently I am.” He wiped the wet spots on the table with a napkin then handed her a glass. He lifted his high. “To being halfway done with school. Four years down, four to go. Of course, there’s residency training …”

Kayla clinked his glass without saying anything. She took a sip and allowed the cool liquid to linger in her mouth and slowly go down her throat.

A few minutes of silence passed between them. Kayla took another sip.

“I had an interesting conversation with Dr. Collins the other day—”

She covered her mouth to prevent spewing all over the table. She swallowed hard. “What’d you talk about?” Her voice squeaked.

“The summer intern program.”

“He chose you? That’s awesome.”

“I never said that.” His tone lowered.

Kayla bit her lip. “So who did he choose?”

“Didn’t say. I wanted him to know how much it would mean to me—”

“You’re the smartest guy in the class.”

Jeremy shrugged, his shoulders hunched over in defeat. “I don’t get it. I’ve worked hard all year and thought I’d proven myself over and over again. A couple of weeks ago, I would’ve said I got it in the bag, but something changed. I can’t put my finger on it.”

“What did he say to you?”

“Not much. He told me to focus on my studies and to stay away from the female med students. It’s not like I’ve dated all of them. Why do you think he would say something like that?”

My mother. “Jeremy …”

Chloe poked her head out. “Okay, you two. I need Kayla to help me greet the guests. You’ll have plenty of time to chat. I sat you next to each other for dinner.” She winked.

No, this night was going to be far from relaxing. A gallon of ice cream at home and a stack of movies sounded better with each passing minute.

Kayla pasted on a smile, stood, and followed Chloe inside, her thoughts and feelings a jumbled mess.

24

“You’re brilliant.” Ashley leaned in to Bryan as they walked down her childhood street. They turned a corner once they came to the neighborhood park.

Bryan kissed Ashley’s cheek. “More like desperate. How else was I going to get you alone? If I know anything about teenagers, they love money. Having Madi keep an eye on Drew’s girls so he can watch the football game works for everyone. The girls are happy, and so are Drew and your dad.”

“Like I said. Brilliant.” Ashley smiled.

Bryan squeezed her hand. “Best of all, I like to see you happy.”

“Definitely.” She nodded. “What about you?”

“Being able to spend time with my favorite girl makes me the happiest man of all.” He grinned.

Dare she hope his agenda for the evening included a proposal?

Each time she’d seen him in the last couple of months, underlying tension filled the air, as if he had something on his mind. She batted her eyes at him. “Enough to want to make it official?”

Bryan shook his head. “You know I want to make it special—”

“What’s more romantic than an evening stroll?” Ashley gripped his arm and rested her head against his shoulder. Lord, what’s holding him back?

“Since you put it that way …” Bryan swooped her in his arms, leaned her against a tree, and kissed her soundly.

Did that mean he was ready to ask her to be his wife?

She gave in for a moment, enjoying the feel of his lips against hers. “Bryan, it’s not quite dark.” She giggled. “What about the neighbors?”

“Maybe they’d like to see a young couple in love. Might give them ideas.” He laughed.

“We are in love, aren’t we,” Ashley wrapped her hands around his neck and pulled him close for another kiss.

His hands roamed down her sides. “How’d you end up with a guy like me?” His voice was low and husky.

“Oh, I don’t know. I guess I felt sorry for you.” She teased, trailing her finger down the side of his jaw. “You had the same lonely look in your eye as the dogs in the shelter.”

Bryan’s jaw dropped, and his brows drew together. “That hopeless, huh?”

“No.” Ashley backtracked, keeping her tone light. “You just needed someone to give you female attention.” She winked.

Bryan’s body went rigid. His shoulders stiffened, and his expression changed. He pulled away then, grabbed her hand, and tugged her beside him down the street. “C’mon. Let’s keep walking.”

Not the reaction she’d wanted. Did she go too far? She only meant to tease him a little. Now silence threatened to ruin their time together.

Truth was, Bryan was known to have a hard time committing to someone. Everyone in the singles group at church had warned her when they first dated, but soon after, people accepted them as a couple, encouraging their relationship along.

“Bryan, is there something else bothering you?” She didn’t want to press, but if there was any chance that they’d ever make it to the altar, he’d have to trust her with his heart.

Bryan released her hand and wrapped his arm around her shoulder. “Ash, you’re too good for me.”

“That’s the best you can do? We both know that’s not true. What’s really bugging you?” Her tone was firm now.

He let out a breath. “We haven’t spent time together for so long. Can’t we just enjoy the evening? I want to take a break from everything and hold your hand. Is there something wrong with that?”

“No, of course not. As long as you’re not keeping anything from me.” She wouldn’t let him pull away.

“What would I be keeping from you?”

“I don’t know.” Ashley shrugged a shoulder. “You’ve been distant lately.”

“You know teaching is a more than a full-time job, and with Madi and now Tanner, yeah, I’ve been a little busy.” His voice held an annoyed tone.

He totally missed the point. Yes, he was busy because of his work and new responsibilities, but she wasn’t talking about those things. He’d been emotionally distant, like he was afraid of something. Better to squelch the fire before it got out of hand. “I get it, honey. I do.”

“What am I doing?” Bryan cupped her shoulder. “Of course you get it. You’re the one keeping an eye on Madi right now. Have I told you how much I appreciate what you’re doing for her?”

Was she making a big deal out of nothing? “No, you haven’t.” She smiled. “But you can tell me again.” She placed a flirty lilt back in her voice.

“Thank you, Ash.” He kissed her temple. “I hope Susan gets it together soon so we can get back to our normal lives.”

That was the most optimistic he’d been in a long time. “I hope so, too.”

They stopped and watched the sunset. Brilliant reds, pinks, and oranges streaked the sky. Her emotions swirled around like the cirrus clouds. Once Madi went home for good, she’d tell him about the photo—about the possibility of having a biological sister. No need to add more stress to whatever was on his mind.

Until then, she’d capture any amount of alone time she could with him. He was a good man. A godly man. A man afraid of committing himself to her, but her man just the same. At least for now—and hopefully forever.

Once darkness settled over them, they walked back to the house, their steps in sync. Before going inside her parents’ home, Ashley wrapped her arms around his waist and placed a gentle kiss on the side of his jaw. “Honestly, I think you’re the one who’s too good for me.” She slipped inside before he could say another word.

Bryan knocked on the door of Pete’s home, a duplex on Kennedy Drive in Capitola. The row of homes on the street had been built in the late sixties, giving them a similar appearance. Pete’s dog barked on the other side of the door. Shouldn’t be long now before his friend answered.

Instead, Shelly, Pete’s wife, greeted him. “Bryan, what brings you by?”

“Sorry it’s late. Is your husband around?” Ten o’clock wasn’t late by some people’s standards, but Pete usually went to bed early. Bryan should’ve looked at his watch before now.

“He should be home any minute. I sent him down to the store for ice cream.”

He glanced at Shelly’s flat stomach. No sign of pregnancy. He quickly looked her in the eye, embarrassed for where his mind had gone. “What flavor?”

“I left that up to him.” She beckoned him in with her hand. “You can join us for a bowl.”

“Really, Shell, I should just go home.”

“Nonsense. You’re already here. Seriously, he should be home any second. I bet he’s pulling into the driveway right now.”

College days were a lifetime ago, yet standing beside Shelly made it feel like yesterday. They’d dated for two years before she’d broken his heart. Her explanation never suited him, but he’d moved on. She had, too. He never harbored ill will against Pete, one of the most likeable guys at church, and in some respects, they had the same personality. At any rate, they’d become friends. Bryan could count on one hand the times he and Shelly had been alone over the years, and it was still awkward to this day.

She gestured to the couch. “Have a seat. Want anything to drink?”

He positioned himself in the corner cushion of the sofa. “No, thanks. I just came from Ashley’s parents’ house. You know, Sunday night dinners.”

Shelly sat opposite him on the love seat. “I think that’s so cool. Everybody should have a close, big family.”

“Most of the time it’s awesome, but it gets a little tricky on holidays now that all of her siblings are married.” Now, why did he bring up the subject of marriage? He’d planned on talking with Pete about his fears, not his old college sweetheart.

“You should join them. Marriage is amazing—hard work, but wonderful.” She averted her eyes. Apparently, she felt a little awkward in front of him, too.

“Out of curiosity, why did you break up with me on the night I proposed?” Did he just put a voice to the question that kept him up late at night? He definitely had moved on from the cute blonde who captured his heart in his early twenties, but if she could break up with him when he finally got up the nerve, so could Ashley, and at this point, he wouldn’t be able to take it. No one could take Ashley’s place.

“Bryan, you’re bringing this up now? I’m a married woman—”

He needed to know he was worthy enough to keep Ashley by his side instead of sending her running like he had with Shelly. “No, you’ve got me all wrong.” He held up a hand. “Pete’s one of my best friends—”

“Exactly. Can we move on and forget the past?” Shelly stood and moved toward the kitchen. “Sure you wouldn’t like something to drink? I’m going to make myself a cup of tea—”

“Peppermint.” Bryan leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees.

“Yeah, you remembered.”

She filled the teapot and set it on the stove to heat. She’d always said tea tasted better scorching hot, not simply warmed from the microwave. He kept this little tidbit to himself. Why make her think he still had a torch for her when he didn’t?

He shifted in his seat. Where was Pete?

Shelly returned to the small family room, pulled back the curtain, and looked out the window. “I don’t know what’s keeping him.”

Maybe Bryan should leave. He’d try again another time when Pete was home. A simple text could’ve eliminated this whole thing. “Shelly—”

“Here he is.” She let the edge of the curtain fall and went to the garage to greet her husband.

The tension in Bryan’s shoulders eased. Pete always had been a good buffer where he and Shelly were concerned, as if their college days together hadn’t existed. Maybe tonight’s discomfort was because everyone knew he was close to proposing—Shelly included.

Pete entered the house with a bag of groceries. “Hey, Bryan. Didn’t expect you tonight.”

Bryan followed Pete into the small kitchen. “I was in Soquel and decided to stop by on my way home. I should’ve texted you first—”

“No problem. Up for some Rocky Road?” Pete pulled a gallon of ice cream out of the bag and set it on the counter.

Bryan grinned. “You know me. A sucker for something sweet.”

Shelly came into the house with a basket of clean laundry. “I’ll fold in the bedroom to give you boys time to talk.”

The teakettle whistled.

“Mind pouring me a cup and bringing it to me?” Shelly tossed the words over her shoulder as she disappeared from view.

“No problem,” Pete called to her. He opened the cabinet and perused his wife’s tea selection. “Now if I could only remember which kind she likes before bed.”

“I hear peppermint’s good,” Bryan coaxed.

Pete raised a brow. “How do you know that? You never struck me as the tea type.”

“I’m not.” Bryan’s shoulder twitched. Did he look as uncomfortable as he felt?

“I’d better ask her.” Pete got out a few bowls, spoons, and the ice cream scooper. “Serve yourself. I’ll be back.”

While Pete went into the bedroom to talk with Shelly, Bryan dished himself a couple of scoops of Rocky Road. Would she get after Pete for forgetting what tea she liked in the evening when Bryan could recall six years later? He hoped not.

Pete returned wagging his head. “You’d think she’d be grateful I asked.”

“What happened? What did she say?” Bryan brought a spoonful of ice cream to his lips, guilty for playing this game.

“You were right. It was peppermint. But I could’ve done without the glare.” Pete set the appropriate tea bag in the cup and poured the steaming liquid over it.

“Women. They’re unpredictable,” Bryan said.

“Except when they have the same tea almost every night. Why can’t I remember the simple details?”

Bryan stayed quiet and let Pete mull over his words.

“Apparently you remembered she drank peppermint tea, and it’s been how long? Even after all these years, you’re still a hard act to follow.” Pete’s voice indicated no malicious feelings.

A lump of marshmallows and nuts from the ice cream lodged in Bryan’s throat.

He had never considered what it must be like for Pete whenever he was around. No wonder his friend asked when he and Ashley were getting married.

If only he could get up the courage.

25

Kayla bobbed her leg up and down as she waited for Dr. Collins to call her into his office. She was not going to be a roadblock to Jeremy’s success as a doctor. If the confession ruined her chances for a future in the program, then so be it. She’d undo the harm her mother had done by speaking to the professor.

Kayla fiddled with the leather clasp of her Coach purse, rubbing it between her fingers. She’d taken great care with her appearance this morning, wanting to look as polished and professional as possible. Her neatly pressed jacket and slacks complemented her petite frame, and the new teal blouse accentuated the green of her eyes. Whether or not her looks would help her today was irrelevant, but it gave her a semblance of confidence. Clearing Jeremy’s name and helping him get the summer intern job before it was too late were important.

The door to Dr. Collins’s office opened, and he stepped out with briefcase in hand.

“I’ve been called to the hospital. We’ll need to reschedule—”

“But I need to talk with you.” Kayla’s heart pounded. “It’s extremely important.”

The professor locked the door to his office then shot her a look. “More important than an emergency appendectomy?”

She followed him down the hall. “Well, no, but—”

“Your mother has already informed me of the situation. You won’t have to worry about inappropriate male students. It’s taken care of. Now, if you’ll excuse me.”

Kayla chased after him out of the building, not an easy thing to do in four-inch heels. How could she make him understand without sounding as though she was put up to it? “Dr. Collins, there’s been a serious miscommunication.” She wove through the parking lot after the professor. “Jeremy is one of my best friends.”

The professor stopped at a black Mercedes and opened the back door. He dropped his briefcase on the backseat then turned to her and crossed his arms tightly over his chest. “I’ll give you thirty seconds.”

Thirty seconds? How could she make him understand the truth in thirty seconds? She hesitated.

Dr. Collins quirked a brow.

Kayla sucked in a mouthful of air and let the words flow fast and furious. “You know my mother, have known her for years. She’s a perfectionist in every sense of the word and expects others to be like her. Well, I’m not—far from it. I have to study like crazy to get decent grades, which by her standards is not good enough, and to be completely honest, I don’t know if being a doctor is what I’m meant to do. But I’m rambling and right now that’s beside the point.” She looked him directly in the eye. “Jeremy is the smartest guy in class. I know because he’s my lab partner. He’s helped me study and actually cares that I succeed. Did you know he tutors at least five other people in the class? Okay, yes, they’re females, but his intentions are good I can assure you—”

Dr. Collins stopped her with his hand. “Time’s up.”

Kayla straightened her shoulders. “He deserves the summer intern position. I won’t let my mother’s wrong assumptions hurt his chances. Jeremy never took advantage of me.”

Dr. Collins jostled his keys. “Are you done?”

Kayla clutched her purse to her side. Did she say enough? “I think so.”

“Good.” Dr. Collins got into his car and pulled out of the parking lot and into the street.

Her stomach twisted into a knot. She tried to recall exactly what she’d said. Did she give her professor enough information to change his mind about Jeremy?

Time would tell.

The bigger problem was whether or not her mother was working at the hospital today. If Dr. Collins told her about their conversation, she would once again try to steer him wrong.

Six hours later, Kayla sat at an outdoor table at Café La Flore, sipping a vanilla latte and feeling more anxious than she had before she spoke with the professor. How could she have let it go this far? If Jeremy didn’t get the intern position, she’d never forgive herself. And if her mother’s words affected his career as a doctor … no, she wouldn’t let her mind go there. Jeremy had worked too hard.

And I haven’t worked hard enough.

Her cell phone chimed, signaling a text.

HEY FRIEND! CALL ME. EXCITING NEWS. C

At least something positive was happening in her best friend’s life. Kayla took another sip of her espresso and called Chloe. “Hey. What’s up?” Kayla purposefully put a lilt in her voice, attempting to put her feelings aside. It wasn’t working.

“After you chewed me out for not visiting Heather, I went home with her after the party. Felt good to go back to my childhood neighborhood. Okay, I almost hyperventilated when we drove down David’s street, but it was dark—”

“Doesn’t he live around the corner from Heather?”

“Yes, there’s no other way to get to her house, so it was inevitable.”

Kayla set her coffee down. “Was he home? Did you see him?”

“Whoa. You’re getting ahead of me—”

“You did say you have exciting news …”

“Okay, okay. I won’t hold you in suspense. The following night Heather ordered pizza, and when I answered the door to pay the deliveryman, I nearly fell over.”

“Why? Was the deliveryman a hot Italian guy with dark hair?”

Chloe laughed. “You know me too well, but no. No gorgeous deliveryman, but I noticed Heather had ordered three pizzas. Three. My sister and I could never eat all that pizza, so I knew something was up.”

“And?” Kayla moved her hand in circles, as if that would help Chloe move the conversation along. Her best friend could draw out a story more than anyone.

“Heather told me it was time I faced my fear. Said she’d invited David and several other friends from her church to come over. Well, I was mad. I couldn’t believe she’d take advantage of the situation. No wonder I hadn’t gone home for so long.”

Kayla pressed her lips together. It was more than that. Chloe hadn’t gone home since David broke up with her and her parents died in the auto accident. But now was not the time to remind her of that difficult summer.

“What’s the exciting part?” A little good news would help brighten Kayla’s mood.

“David was the last to arrive. He said he debated on whether or not to come.”

“That’s understandable. Does he know how much he hurt you?”

“He asked me over to his house, and on the walk over, he apologized. Said he should’ve come to my parents’ memorial. Should’ve been there for me.”

“Darn right he should’ve.” Kayla couldn’t help the protective tone.

“Kay, his words were so tender. He really meant them.”

“In that case, I’m happy for you. It was a long time coming.”

“There’s more. His parents welcomed me in like I was their long-lost daughter. They hugged me and told me to come over any time. They want to be a part of my life even though they know David and I aren’t a couple anymore.”

“Won’t that be awkward? I mean, what if David starts dating someone else?” Kayla didn’t want to burst her friend’s bubble, but she had to see the reality of the situation.

“I’m not worried about that.” Chloe’s voice held a confident edge. “David and I sat on his parents’ porch swing, and he told me that he missed me, that he wants to try again.”

Kayla downed the last swig of her vanilla latte. “Let me guess. You’re definitely willing.”

“I told him I wanted to wait and see. That I needed time to digest his apology.”

“You didn’t! All you’ve ever talked about is getting back with David. That if he asked, you’d jump at the chance.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll only let him squirm for a little while.”

“So, you’re getting back together? You and David?”

“All I can say is, when he put his arm around me, it’s as if no time had gone by. I had the same tingly feeling in my stomach as when I was in high school. I believe he’s the one.”

What must that be like? To know for certain? Jeremy’s image floated across her mind. The likelihood they’d ever get together was slim to none, especially now that she could’ve ruined his career. “I’m thrilled for you.” Kayla’s words didn’t match the sound of her voice. She had to put aside her troubles for a little while longer, at least until she hung up the phone. Kayla tilted her face upward and let the sun warm her all the way through to her cold heart.

“What’s going on with you? Did you and Jeremy have fun the other night? You know he has a thing for you. I can see that look in his eyes whenever you’re around.”

Could she tell Chloe the truth? That her mom misunderstood and could’ve ruined Jeremy’s livelihood—and any future she could have with him? “We had a nice time, but there’s something I’ve got to tell you—”

“I’ve got another call. It’s David. Can I call you back?”

“No problem. Talk to you later.” Kayla disconnected the call, leaned her arm on the table, and rested her weary head. She hardly slept last night, and her emotions were at an all-time high.

Would Ashley be a protective sister like Heather? Help her face her biggest fears? Orchestrate a romantic meeting? And would Kayla gain the love of another family if Ashley became a part of her life? The questions swirled through her head.

It was all too much to think about.

26

With a steaming pot of chicken soup in her mitten-covered hands, Ashley cocked her head toward Lauren’s house. “Can you ring the doorbell?”

The rest of the simple dinner rested in the brown paper sack in Madi’s hand. The girl’s brows shot up. “You sure Lauren won’t mind? I know my mom hates surprises.”

“Hurry, this is heavy.”

Why do some teenagers make life so difficult?

“Lauren’s never sick. I can’t remember the last time she’s missed a family dinner, and I want to make sure she’s okay.”

“All right.” Madi let out a breath and rang the doorbell. “My mom always makes a meal for people who have a baby. I’m surprised you didn’t make soup for Tori, too.”

All this talk about her mom must mean Madi was ready to go home. Thank God! The girl wore her out.

“You’re right. I do need to make a meal for Tori. You were a good babysitter the other night. Seems like you bonded with her girls.”

Way to keep it positive. No one else was around to give Madi a compliment when she needed one.

“I’m used to little kids. I’ve got three brothers.” Madi rang the bell again.

Where was Lauren? On Sunday, Mom said she was taking the week off work. Ashley set the heavy pot down on the front stoop. Besides making the soup out of the goodness of her heart, Ashley had another motive. She wanted the photo back. If Lauren couldn’t find her biological sister, then she’d take matters into her own hands.

Madi shook her head. “I don’t think she’s here.”

“Let’s wait another minute.” Ashley peeked in the family room window. A box of tissue sat on the edge of the coffee table, and a knitted afghan and television remote lay haphazardly on the sofa.

“Maybe you should call her.”

“And ruin the surprise?”

Madi folded her arms. “Or we can stand here all day. I say we take the soup to Tori.”

Ashley wasn’t going to leave. Not yet. She pulled her cell phone out of her purse and punched in Lauren’s number. “If she doesn’t answer, we’ll—” Before she could finish her sentence, Lauren came on the line. “Hey, sis, how’re you feeling?”

Madi’s mouth drooped. She must be missing her brothers something fierce.

Lauren talked on and on about how sick she was and how she spent the last half hour standing in a steaming shower.

“Good thing I’m here with a pot of chicken soup.”

“Homemade like Grandma used to make?” Lauren’s congestion made her m’s sound like b’s.

“Yeah, Madi and I were looking in her old cookbook and found the recipe. Thought you’d like some since you’re sick and all.”

“I love that chicken soup. Now’s perfect.”

Ashley grinned. “Well, are you going to let us in?” So I can get the photo.

“Us? Please don’t tell me Bryan’s with you. I look horrible—”

“No, it’s just me and Madi.”

“Give me a minute. I’m wrapped in a towel.”

“Okay, but hurry or else I’ll drive this soup straight to Tori’s.” Ashley glanced at Madi and winked.

“You wouldn’t dare!” The phone went dead.

“Lauren’s coming.” Ashley picked up the pot of soup. “She was in the shower.”

“My mom hates it when I take long showers.” More talk about her mom. Must be time to go home for a visit with her family.

Right now, Ashley needed to concentrate on her own life and figure out how she was going to bring up the photo.

A minute later, the door swung open. Lauren wore her pale pink robe and fuzzy slippers. Her wet hair hung limp around her oval face, and the edges of her nostrils were bright red from her cold. “Come on in.”

Madi showed her the bag. “We brought bread and brownies, too.”

“You two are saints.” Lauren gestured them inside. “Sean’s going to be happy. He loves brownies. That’s if they last that long.” She smiled at the teen.

“I’m going to set this on the stove so you can keep it warm all day.” Ashley moved past Lauren and headed for the kitchen. She set down the pot to heat and let her gaze roam the counter. Had Lauren left the photo in plain sight? Ashley perused the rest of the kitchen. It was hard to spot in the midst of the clutter. Dirty dishes, mail, and newspapers were scattered throughout the space. “You need to clean. How do you find anything in this mess?”

“Feel free. I’ve been sick all week.”

Now she could look around for the photo without feeling guilty. “Sean doesn’t know how to wash dishes?” Ashley joked.

“He’s not home. Been away on business. He’s coming home tonight.”

Ashley peeked around the corner into the family room. Madi had already claimed the overstuffed chair, fingering the latest Sunset magazine. “I’ll do the dishes while you eat. Get comfortable, and I’ll bring you some soup.”

“Please eat with me.” Lauren situated herself on the couch and covered her bare calves with the blanket. “Being sick is the pits, and I’m tired of eating alone.”

“If that’s what you want.”

“Are you going to share the brownies, too?” Madi asked. The girl had already licked the beaters, ate one right after the batch came out of the oven, and had begged for another on the ride over. The girl was seriously addicted to chocolate.

Ashley grabbed three bowls and ladled the hot broth, chicken, noodles, and vegetables into each one. She carried them one by one to the family room, along with napkins and three spoons.

Madi pulled out the basket of bread from the bag and passed it around.

“I wish I could smell.” Lauren held the bowl close, letting the steam hit her face.

Ashley sat on the far side of the sofa and said a quick prayer of thanks. “Now let’s hope it tastes as good as it smells.” She dug her spoon in the bowl, blew on the soup, and brought it to her mouth. For her first time making her grandma’s specialty, it wasn’t half bad. Needed a little more salt and a dash of pepper, but otherwise decent. “I’ll be right back.” She went to the kitchen for the spices. As she reached into the cabinet, a note on her sister’s blackboard jumped out at her.

SEND PHOTO.

Was Lauren referring to her photo? The one of her and her baby sister? Why couldn’t Lauren hand deliver it to her? Perhaps she wanted to send it because she was sick and couldn’t make it last Sunday. Or maybe she had a lead on who the girl was. The thought made her heart pound.

Then again, it could be a different photo altogether. Her sister worked at a real estate company, after all, and took pictures of vacation rentals all the time. Maybe she had a prospective client in search of a beach house.

Halfway through the meal, Ashley couldn’t stand the suspense any longer. She had to know if Lauren had a lead or if she planned on giving the photo back. “So about the photo …” Ashley let her words dangle and eyed her sister.

Lauren sneezed. She set her soup down, grabbed a tissue, and blew her nose. “I’m sorry. I don’t have any news for you.”

“But the note on your blackboard?”

Lauren coughed. She coughed some more. “I wish I had something to tell you.”

“Do you still need the picture, or can I have it? I want to show Grandma the next time she comes for a visit.”

“I’ll make sure you have it when Grandma’s here.” Lauren leaned her head in her hand. “Sorry, Ash, but I feel a nap coming on. I haven’t slept well all week—”

“But the photo?”

“Give me a little bit more time. I’m sure I can figure things out.”

More time? How much more would her sister need? She hoped to get the photo back today. Then again, she’d be patient if Lauren could find out some information. Her sister had a natural ability to sniff out the truth. “All right, but you need to hurry up and get better.” She couldn’t help the urgency in her tone.

“Thank you for the soup … and for caring. Mom’s been so busy helping Tori with the new baby. Did you hear? So far so good. No side effects from his birth. Of course, they’ll watch him closely and monitor his developmental milestones …” Lauren’s eyes misted—or were her eyes watering because of her bad cold?

“Your day will come.”

“I’ll never get pregnant if my husband stays away on business.” Lauren got to her feet, grabbed the box of tissue off the coffee table, and shuffled toward her bedroom. A loud sneeze echoed down the hall.

“C’mon, Madi. Let’s clean the kitchen. It’ll be good to wash our hands so we don’t get sick.”

Madi huffed. “Can we eat a brownie before we go?”

“Yes, but after we clean.” Ashley collected the spoons and bowls and went into the kitchen, the note on the blackboard once again catching her eye.

27

Three days had passed since Ashley brought Lauren the pot of soup and arranged for Madi to go home for a visit. Ashley peeked into the girl’s bedroom. “Need help?”

Madi frowned. “I don’t know if I can go home.”

“Two days, that’s it. I’ll pick you up on Sunday night.”

“Before dinner, right?” Madi fidgeted with the hem of her shirt.

“Definitely before the family dinner. Tori’s girls would be so disappointed if you weren’t there.”

“And if I need to be picked up before then?”

“You can call me or Bryan anytime.”

Madi’s jaw clenched. “Good, because if my mom gets on my case …”

Ashley handed the girl her sweatshirt to put inside her duffle bag. “I’m sure your family misses you as much as you miss them. I hope you try your best to get along.”

Madi shrugged a shoulder. “Who says I miss them?”

Ashley didn’t want to argue. Of course Madi missed her family. It was evident in the way she brought them up in conversation. More so lately. “Come on. Your mom’s waiting.”

She looked forward to dropping the teen off and spending time alone with Bryan.

“We can’t forget the brownies,” Madi said.

Ashley scrambled to the kitchen and snatched the foiled paper plate filled with what was left of the batch. They had baked a couple dozen the night before as incentive to work on the photo albums.

Madi followed after her. “You sure you don’t want me to help you this weekend?”

“Positive. You’ve been a big help, but I want what’s best for you.” Okay, and me and Bryan, too. She might have the chance to finally tell him about her biological sister.

“You girls ready?” Bryan called from the doorway.

Madi shuffled her feet as she walked to the door. “I guess.”

Ashley would do everything in her power to make this weekend happen. Please, Lord, I need a break. She closed and locked the door.

Bryan put Madi’s duffle bag and pillow in the back of the truck. He lingered before getting inside. There was tenderness in his eyes she hadn’t seen in a long time. Maybe the sentiment was true, and absence did make the heart grow fonder. A tingling sensation shot through her, and she sent him a warm smile.

As they drove, Tanner stuck his nose out the opened window. The dog had become a regular part of their lives, and Ashley couldn’t imagine life without the Labrador.

Tension filled the truck the closer they drove to Madi’s house. The teenager slunk down in her seat. “I changed my mind. Take me back.”

Ashley looked at Bryan.

His jaw flexed. “Your mom told me your brothers have been talking nonstop about this weekend. You’ll disappoint them if you don’t show up.”

“They’ll want me home for ten minutes. Then they’ll go off and play. I’ll be left to deal with Mom’s accusations. I’m tired of her judging me.”

“I hear what you’re saying, but give them a chance.” Bryan glanced up at Madi in the rearview mirror.

Ashley clutched her hands in her lap, attempting to release the mounting stress. God, I need this weekend with Bryan. Please?

The girl wrapped an arm around Tanner and stroked the dog’s ears. “I’ve lived with them my whole life. They’re not going to change.”

“I know it’s been tough lately, but—”

“Wait, I have an idea.” Madi leaned forward between the front seats. “Can Tanner come home with me? I know how to take care of him, and the boys will love it!”

“I’m not so sure your mom will,” Bryan said. “We didn’t grow up with animals, and she’s always been a little nervous around dogs.”

Last night, Bryan mentioned he’d had a long talk with Susan. Paul had moved back to the area. Apparently, his new girlfriend hadn’t worked out. At the moment, he was weighing whether or not to pursue marriage counseling. In the meantime, he wanted to be a part of his kids’ lives. Said he missed them.

Over the weekend, Susan planned on talking with her children about living arrangements. Felt cruel to add a dog to the mix, but Tanner might be an unexpected blessing. Dogs had a way of comforting people.

Ashley nudged Bryan’s elbow. “But if she’s willing? You have the dog’s leash in the back, and we can stop by a convenience store to pick up some food. All he needs is a bowl for water and a blanket to sleep on. I’m sure Susan can supply those.”

Bryan glanced her way, and she sent him a pleading look. He pulled up to the curb in front of Madi’s house. “Let me bring up the subject, and if she agrees, we’ll stop and buy dog food. I don’t want there to be a blowout before the weekend begins.”

Madi’s mood brightened. “Thank you. I’ll take good care of him. You’ll see.”

Twins, Zachary and Dylan, bounded out of the house. Ethan was close behind. In the blink of an eye, all three boys stood next to the truck, grins on their faces. Ethan tugged on the door handle. Thank goodness it was locked.

Bryan grabbed the dog’s collar. “Keep Tanner inside the car with the windows rolled down until I talk with your mom.” He shot the words over his shoulder to Madi then unlocked the door.

“They brought a dog!” Zachary attempted to climb in, but Madi blocked his path.

Ashley stepped out of the truck. “Hi, boys. How about you greet your sister first? Bryan will let you pet Tanner later.”

Dylan lifted a hand. “Hey, Madi. Want to ride bikes?”

“Sure.” She ruffled her brother’s hair. “But I’d better say hi to Mom first before we take off.”

Ethan wrapped his sister in an embrace. “Please come home. I don’t like being the oldest kid in the house.”

Madi smirked and stepped back, leaving her hands to rest on her brother’s shoulders. “I totally get it. Most of the time, I don’t like being the oldest either.”

As the baby in the family, Ashley never had to deal with the responsibilities expected of a firstborn. Then again, she was never given the chance. If her birthparents had raised her, she would’ve been the oldest child in the family. How strange that would be.

“Where’s Mom?” Madi went to the back of the truck where Bryan was hoisting her things out of the back.

“Inside.” Zachary pointed to the house. “She baked a carrot cake. The timer went off when you guys came.”

Madi lifted her chin and her eyes widened. “Guess what I brought? Brownies.”

Susan stood in the doorway. “Hi, Madison. Come on inside.” Had anyone else heard the strain in Susan’s voice? Had Madi?

The teen rolled her eyes. “Does Mom have to sound so uptight?”

Ashley rubbed Madi’s shoulder. “Give her a chance.” She grabbed the dessert off the front dashboard. A little peace offering might be needed.

Susan stepped out of the house and met her daughter on the front steps. Madi leaned into her mom but kept her arms down by her sides. Susan pulled Madi close but quickly stepped back. “Will you and Bryan stay for dinner? Beef tacos, Madi’s favorite.” She eyed her daughter.

The corners of Madi’s mouth turned up a little but, just as quickly, her grin faded. “Dylan asked me to ride bikes. May we go?”

Susan nodded. “Go ahead, but be back in forty-five minutes for dinner.”

The kids raced toward the garage.

Bryan grabbed Ashley’s hand and pulled her near him. “We’d love to stay, but Ash and I have plans, don’t we, babe?”

“Please, stay a while?” Susan asked. “At least until the kids come back? Paul may show up, and I don’t think I can handle being alone with him.”

Ashley’s heart squeezed. She handed Susan the plate of brownies. “What’s forty-five minutes?”

Bryan lifted a brow. “Only until the kids come back.”

Susan let out a breath. “Thank you.” She led them into the house and set the plate of brownies on the dining room table.

“Suz, there’s something Madi wanted me to ask you.” Bryan squeezed Ashley’s hand.

Ashley squeezed back, her voice low. “Maybe we shouldn’t bring it up.”

“Now I’m curious,” Susan said. “You might as well tell me.”

“Madi would like Tanner to spend the weekend. He’s a good dog and loves Madi to pieces.” Bryan took a seat on the edge of the recliner chair. “You won’t have any trouble—”

“Ha, there’s always trouble at my house. I have four kids, remember?” Susan plopped down on the sofa next to Ashley and folded her arms.

“Tanner might be a good diversion, and Madi knows how to take care of him,” Ashley spoke up. “Plus, getting out of your usual routine might help the situation.”

“Dogs make me nervous, and from what I could see, Tanner is a big, energetic dog.”

“But he’s gentle and wouldn’t hurt a soul,” Ashley said.

“Hey, I took your daughter home, and she’s way more complicated than a canine,” Bryan said. “If I can do it, so can you.”

“Yeah, the animals at the shelter pale in comparison.” Ashley laughed.

“Really?” Susan countered.

Ashley sobered. Apparently now was not the time to make a joke.

“Seriously, though, it took some coaxing to get Madi home.” Bryan leaned forward in his chair. “If you want her to stay the whole weekend, having Tanner around is one sure way to keep her here. She loves that dog.”

Susan sucked in a breath. “I guess turnabout is fair play.”

Bryan stood. “Want to meet him?”

“As long as you keep him down. I can’t stand it when dogs jump on me.”

“We’ve been working on it, but I can’t make any promises. If that happens, I’ll show you what to do.”

Susan blew out air between puckered lips. “All right. I think I can do this.”

“I’ll go get him.”

Bryan’s assertiveness impressed Ashley. If only his boldness translated to their relationship. But the night wasn’t over yet. They still had their date.

The minute he stepped out of the house to get the dog, Susan turned to Ashley, her voice a whisper. “Has he asked you yet?”

Ashley’s heart pounded a strange rhythm. Could Susan read her mind? “Ask me what?” Feigning ignorance was better than admitting the truth. No, Bryan hadn’t asked her to marry him.

“Ethan saw Bryan look at a diamond ring the night Madison went missing. But it’s been weeks. He hasn’t asked you to marry him yet?” Her features clouded.

Is she really going to ask me that question again? Ashley shook her head. “Something’s holding him back, but I don’t know what it is.”

Susan narrowed her eyes. “Bryan had a hard time getting over Shelly, and I’m sure my separation hasn’t helped—” She clamped her mouth shut when Bryan entered the house with Tanner.

Shelly? As in Pete’s wife? From what Ashley had gathered, the two of them were old college friends. Had there been more between them? Why hadn’t Bryan told her? True, Shelly and Pete had only been attending their church the past year, but why would Bryan omit that fact? Her stomach twisted into a knot.

“Here he is.” Bryan held tight to the red leash. Tanner tugged. Bryan stopped, grabbed the dog’s attention, and then continued toward them. They walked in unison until they were a couple of feet from Susan. He told the dog to sit. When Tanner obeyed, Bryan patted the dog’s head. “See, he’s easy to train.”

Susan stuck out her hand in a tentative manner and let Tanner smell it before she rubbed his chin. “You sure I can handle a dog?” Her voice shook.

“You’ll be fine.” Bryan nuzzled Tanner’s right ear. “And Madi knows what to do. Let her take charge.”

Ashley watched the interaction, feeling as though she didn’t know the man in front of her. How could he control a classroom of thirty children, offer to watch a fifteen-year-old girl, and become a dog whisperer within a short time and not tell her about a past relationship with someone they interacted with on a weekly basis? Was losing Shelly the reason he had a hard time committing?

“Ashley?” Bryan’s voice pulled her back.

“Sorry, I wasn’t paying attention.”

“I asked if you’d mind running to the store to get the dog food. I left my keys in the entryway …”

Mind? No, she didn’t mind. Fresh air and a reason to get away was exactly what she needed. “I’ll be right back.”

“Thanks, babe.”

A smile tipped up the corners of her mouth at the endearment, but the big question loomed. Why hadn’t he proposed? He’d had more than enough chances despite their hectic lives.

“Take your time,” Susan called after her. “The kids won’t be home for another half hour.”

Ashley’s legs shook as she made her way to Bryan’s extended cab pickup truck, her old fears of rejection worming their way inside. Didn’t Bryan love her? Was she not good enough?

She sat in the driver’s seat, her mind whirling. How long would she wait before the truth smacked her in the face? Bryan gave himself to Shelly and was now a perpetual bachelor. The sooner she realized that fact, the better off she’d be.

As she pulled away from the curb and down the street, she passed a white luxury car coming the opposite direction toward Susan’s house.

Paul.

Ashley rolled her eyes like she’d seen Madi do countless times. Perfect. Just perfect.

28

It wasn’t like her parents to be late. Kayla bobbed her leg up and down as she sat at the corner table at Top of the Mark, one of San Francisco’s premier restaurants located on the nineteenth floor of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel. The restaurant had a 360-degree panoramic view of the city skyline, Bay, and the Golden Gate Bridge, the perfect place to let her parents know her decision.

Kayla chose her outfit carefully, wearing the one-shouldered eggplant-colored dress her mom said complemented her ivory skin and the simple, yet elegant diamond necklace her parents gave her on her twenty-first birthday.

“Would you like to order something to drink? A glass of wine perhaps?” The handsome waiter bent slightly and looked at Kayla with pity in his eyes. She’d waited for twenty minutes and still no sign of her parents. Maybe he thought she was waiting for a man. Better set him straight.

“My parents should be here any minute.” Her voice was little more than a squeak. When the waiter left, she glanced at her watch for at least the tenth time in the last few minutes and pulled out her cell phone from her gold clutch. No messages. What could be keeping them?

While she waited, she scrolled through her e-mail. Chloe was headed to her sister’s house in Santa Rosa again this weekend. Things with David must be going well. As happy as she was for her friend, a slight niggling nipped at her gut. What must it be like to have found the one person you can’t imagine life without?

Jeremy’s image floated across her mind. She hadn’t talked with him since Chloe’s party, afraid if she did, she’d blurt out the real reason he didn’t get the intern position and ruin any chance of friendship. If she was honest with herself, she dreamed of a relationship since the night he declared his feelings. But it didn’t matter now that she’d completely blown it.

“Sorry we’re late.” Her mother’s rushed apology matched the quickness in her step as she slid into the seat her dad held out for her. “I told your father to text you, but he didn’t think it was necessary.” She glanced at the thin diamond watch on her wrist. “For goodness’ sakes, Robert, it’s eight o’clock.”

He sat in the chair opposite Kayla. “I’m sorry, Kay. Friday night traffic is a bear.”

“No worries. I needed to go through my e-mail.” Kayla mustered a smile and slid her cell phone into her clutch on the corner of the table. She took a sip of her water, her mouth feeling like surgical gauze. How was she going to get through dinner now that her parents’ arrival set her heart to racing?

The waiter returned and took everyone’s drink order. As much as she’d like something to lessen her senses, Kayla opted for iced tea. Her dad, on the other hand, ordered a glass of red wine. Her mother chose white. Maybe she’d wait to share what was on her heart until after the dinner when the alcohol had a chance to take effect.

“I was stunned when you asked us to dinner. It’s not like you. What’s the occasion?”

Kayla shifted in her seat at the pointed question. Why did her mother always find a way to make her feel bad? Kayla could do that all by herself.

Dad cleared his throat. “Who says there has to be an occasion? Can’t a family go out to dinner together?” He patted Mom’s hand in that patronizing way he did when he was embarrassed and wanted her to be quiet. Kayla had seen that gesture many times throughout the years. Her mother usually complied, but not always.

“No, it’s not like Kayla, and you know it.” Mom’s words were clipped and directed at her father.

“We discussed this the whole way here.” Dad’s voice was low. “Give Kayla a chance to explain herself.”

So they’d been talking about her, huh? Probably the reason they were late. Kayla imagined them driving around the block, trying to figure her out. After all the years of being in the pressure cooker, it was her parents turn to keep guessing a while longer. That’s if she could hold them off until after the appetizer.

The waiter returned with their drink order.

Kayla opened a menu.

“Well? Aren’t you going to say anything?” Mom’s voice hitched.

“I know inviting you to dinner is unusual …” How could she stall them awhile longer? A new tactic, although slightly misleading, came to mind. “I haven’t done my part in thanking you both for your support through the years and thought now was as good of a time as any.”

What her parents lacked in emotional and spiritual guidance, they made up for in providing material things. Truthfully, they went overboard in that area. If only they knew how to love her for who she was—flaws and all. And tonight, more than ever, she needed their encouragement.

“You see?” Dad lifted a brow Mom’s way then winked at Kayla. “Our daughter appreciates all we do for her.”

If she changed the subject, maybe her parents would get off her back. Kayla jiggled her foot. “How was work?”

“Busy.” Dad took a sip of his wine. “The emergency room was packed. I don’t think I took a minute to clear my head. Feels good to finally sit down and relax.”

Kayla toyed with her necklace, rubbing the pendant between her fingers. “Mom, what about you?”

“Two surgeries, a hysterectomy and a da Vinci cholecystectomy. I almost cancelled tonight, but your father insisted we come. Said you must have something important on your mind—”

“Are you ready to order?” The waiter’s timing couldn’t have been better.

After a quick perusal of the menu, Kayla chose the Dungeness crab bites while her parents both picked the plaza hackleback caviar, one of the most expensive items on the menu.

Once the waiter left, her mother excused herself to the ladies’ room.

“Don’t worry, Kayla. I’ll foot the bill.”

If only her father understood the true reason for her anxiety—and it wasn’t over the price of the food, although his offer was appreciated. “Thank you, Dad.”

She inhaled slowly through her nose and relaxed on the exhale. Let it go. The words zipped through her mind, the same three words she’d said to herself all growing up.

Dad broke the moment. “Mom told me about Jeremy. Such a shame. From what I’ve heard, he had massive potential.”

Had? Kayla’s neck muscles tightened. She played with her knife, flipping it over again and again. “What did Mom say?”

“There’s no reason to get upset. It happens all the time. Some students can’t handle the pressure. The best thing to do is carry on with your studies and let the natural consequences happen. He’ll pay for his mistake, and you’ll continue the course.”

His mistake. Jeremy hadn’t done anything wrong.

He needn’t pay for her mistake of not making sure her mother understood the situation. She’d tried to tell her the truth, but apparently it hadn’t worked. But even if she had tried harder, her mother would believe what she wanted to believe. Had her talk with Dr. Collins gone unnoticed as well? Kayla’s heart stuttered. Maybe her father would believe her if she explained—

Too late. Mom returned to her seat at the table, and the waiter came with their meals.

They ate in silence. Kayla barely tasted her food.

That’s it! No more pretending. “I’m not going to attend medical school.”

Dad’s jaw went slack.

“You’re what?” Lines etched Mom’s forehead.

“I don’t want to be a doctor,” Kayla continued while she had the nerve. “Never have. It’s your dream, not mine.”

“Is this about Jeremy? Because if he’s threatening you—”

“Mom, stop.” Kayla held up a hand. “Like I’ve told you before, Jeremy had nothing to do with my slipping grades or my decision. It’s my choice.”

Mom sent her a daggered look. “I don’t believe you.”

Dad patted Mom’s hand. “Christine, keep your voice down. People are looking.”

“Let them.” She spat her words through gritted teeth. “Our daughter is making a horrible mistake. All because of that Jeremy.”

“No! I won’t let you blame him.” Kayla leaned forward with her elbows resting on the table, an etiquette faux pas her mother drilled into her as a kid. “Listen to me, please. Like I told Dr. Collins, Jeremy is a great student and will make a wonderful doctor. He’s caring and kind and would do anything to help another student succeed.”

Dad clutched Mom’s hand. “Are you sure you’re not covering up for him?”

“Positive.” Kayla gripped her napkin in her lap. “Jeremy didn’t—couldn’t—do anything wrong. Period.”

Mom pulled her hand free and dabbed at her eyes with her cloth napkin. “After all we’ve done for you.”

Kayla needed to get to the second point of the evening—and fast. “Do you like my dress?”

Mom’s brows furrowed. “Your dress?”

“Yes. Remember when I wore it last? At Dad’s fiftieth birthday party at The Cliff House? We took family photos.”

Lines etched Mom’s forehead. “Yes, now I remember.”

“You asked me who the designer was, and I never answered you.”

“Why are you telling me this when we’re in the middle of discussing your future?”

“Because it has everything to do with my future.” Kayla squared her shoulders. “I’m the designer. I made this dress, and my dream is to design my own fashion line.”

“You’re quitting medical school to become a fashion designer? Kayla, are you crazy?”

She expected this reaction from her mother. “Yes, I think I am.” Kayla relaxed her posture, and a giggle escaped.

“Robert? What are we going to do with her?” Mom’s voice shook.

“Hold on.” Dad raised a hand. “Let’s think this through. Mom and I are paying for your education and your apartment.” “I know, and I’m grateful—”

“But if you quit medical school, we’re done. You’re on your own.”

Could she live independently? Negative voices zoomed through her mind, telling her she was going to fail yet again, but this time, a stronger one took hold. The words of Philippians 4:13, the ones Jeremy read and she’d memorized since talking with Dr. Collins, wrapped around her heart and boosted her resolve. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

Kayla found her voice. “There’s no changing my mind. I’ve applied to the California College of the Arts here in San Francisco.”

“How will you afford your apartment?” Mom lifted her nose in the air. “It takes a doctor’s salary—”

“I’ll move. I have plenty of friends I can live with in the meantime.”

Mom shook her head and let out a breath. “You’re throwing your life away.”

If she was throwing her life away, then why did Kayla feel so free?

29

Ashley turned off the headlights and dug in her purse for a piece of gum. She’d purchased dog food at AJ’s Market and now sat in the parking lot waiting for Tori to come back on the line.

Baby Max wailed in the background.

Ashley’s nerves rattled. She had to talk to someone, and Tori more than anyone, could give her the perspective she needed, that’s if her sister could steal away from her busy family.

The minutes ticked by. Their conversation had started out pleasant. Ashley asked about the girls and the new baby and whether or not parenthood was different the third time around. Apparently, it wasn’t. Just more laundry, more trips to the grocery store, and less time for her and Drew as a couple. But all in all, her sister was blissfully happy. When it had come time to talk about what was on Ashley’s mind, Max started crying.

“All right, I’m back. But I don’t know for how long. Max needs to be fed, and I’m the only one who can do that. So what’s up? Did Madi go home?”

Ashley leaned her head back against the headrest. “Yes, Madi’s home. She wanted Tanner to spend the weekend, too, so I was sent to the store for dog food.”

“Where are you now?”

“AJ’s.” The local store had everything—including a mini mart, gas station, and car wash. “As I was driving away, I saw Paul coming down the street. I’m sure it’s crazy at the house, and I don’t want to be there to witness it.”

“So you left Bryan alone to pick up the pieces—”

“It’s his family.”

“And the one you most likely will marry into. Are you sure you shouldn’t go back instead of talking with me?”

“There’s something else.” Ashley gripped the steering wheel. “I found out Bryan’s had an engagement ring for weeks, and he still hasn’t asked me.”

“I’ve been thinking about what I said at the flower shop, and maybe I wasn’t being fair. He’s been kind of busy taking care of his niece. So have you. Cut him some slack—”

“There’s more.”

“More?”

“He never told me about a past relationship.”

Tori laughed. “Don’t we all have a teenage crush we haven’t mentioned? Who talks about past loves anymore?”

“Tori, it’s someone who goes to our church. We see her practically every Sunday.” Ashley slouched in the seat. “And she’s gorgeous, talented, and extremely … perfect.”

“Does he act like he still cares for her?”

“No. I’ve never noticed anything. Besides she’s married. But now that I think about it, they almost go out of their ways to avoid each other.”

“So, what’s the problem?”

Ashley twisted a lock of hair between her thumb and index finger. “Susan said that he had a hard time getting over her.”

“And?” Tori probed.

“That’s all she said.”

“Ash, everyone has a hard time getting over a first love, but that doesn’t mean a better love won’t come along. Bryan’s found you, and he loves you very much. I can see it.”

Max started crying again.

“Look, Ash, I’ve got to go. Come by sometime, okay? Bring Madi with you. I’d love for her to watch the girls while you and I have some sister time. We’ll schedule it around Max’s afternoon nap. Maybe next weekend?”

“Sure. See you then.” Ashley dropped her cell phone into her purse and leaned her head on the steering wheel.

Was she making a big deal out of nothing?

Her gut twisted.

She didn’t think so.

Bryan glanced at the door. Where was Ashley?

“Daddy!” Madi rushed into the family room and threw her arms around her father’s neck, squeezing tight. Her forehead shone with sweat, and the top of her hair was matted down like a biker after a workout.

The twins followed suit, running to their father, but Ethan hung back, typical behavior for his personality. He folded his arms. “Where’s Mom?” His brows narrowed, and his mouth puckered like he’d eaten a lemon. The boy was old enough to know his dad made a terrible mistake. Ethan was an ‘old soul’ as some would say—very perceptive, understanding, and kind—and had taken on the role of man of the house while his father was gone. Paul’s choices didn’t seem to bother Madi.

“She’s upstairs, buddy.” Bryan gripped Tanner’s leash between clenched fingers. Personally, he’d like to connect his fist to Paul’s jaw.

The thirty minutes between when Paul showed up and the kids came home had been excruciating. Susan retreated to her room after roundabout conversations, more like arguments, about who got the kids when. Bryan wanted to fight his sister’s battle for her, and he would’ve, too, if Susan hadn’t told him to keep quiet. Finally, Bryan asked to leave the room, to give them time to talk in private, but both Susan and Paul wouldn’t let him go. Said they wanted a witness.

“Come here, Ethan.” Paul waved the boy over, but Ethan wouldn’t budge.

Visually, Paul hadn’t changed much in the last few months. He might have bulked up a little, but his usually lanky frame remained fit. What Bryan did notice were the lines that wrapped around Paul’s eyes, like he’d had too many sleepless nights. Was his brother-in-law worried about his failing marriage? The kids? Well, he should be. He’d cheated on his family.

“Dad, did you see Tanner?” Zachary directed his words to his father then rushed over to the dog and stroked his fur with heavy hands.

“Ease up, Zac. Tanner’s sleeping, or at least he was.” Bryan hadn’t meant for his tone to sound harsh. The thick tension in the room must have addled his brain.

Zachary backed away, a look of uncertainty on his face.

Bryan tugged on the leash lifting the dog to a seated position and motioned the boy forward. “Come back. It’s all right.”

Dylan raced over and joined Zachary. Four eight-year-old hands were all over the dog in no time. Maybe having Tanner stay here was a bad idea. And now with the added stress of visitations between Susan and Paul, Bryan was ready to take the dog and leave—only he couldn’t because Ashley still had his truck. Where was she? It didn’t take this long to pick up dog food.

“Bryan, I need to speak with you.” Susan called from the bottom of the stairs.

Ethan stepped forward. “Mom, can I come, too?”

“Not now, Ethan. I need to talk with Uncle Bryan alone.”

Bryan rubbed Tanner’s ears. Should he take the dog with him?

Madi sat beside him on the couch. “Here. I’ll take him.”

Bryan released the leash to his niece and climbed over the dog and his nephews. He purposefully avoided eye contact with Paul, afraid he’d do something inappropriate in front of the kids like wrestle his brother-in-law to the ground and beat the snot out of him.

It takes two. The thought flashed in his mind. Was Susan ignoring their problems? For a relationship to work, it took both the husband and wife to work through their issues.

Bryan should talk. He was closing his eyes to what was keeping him from proposing to Ashley. Since Madi moved in, he’d all but disregarded the diamond ring sitting inside his kitchen drawer.

Susan led him up the stairs and into her bedroom. She locked the door once they were inside and flopped back on the bed. “I can’t do this.”

Bryan pushed aside the mound of clothes piled on the small armchair and took a seat. “You can’t do what?” He had an idea but wanted Susan to voice exactly what was on her mind.

“His week, my week. Talking about the kids. Pretty soon, I’ll hear them say how much they like living at their father’s house better—”

“Whoa, why are you going there?” Bryan leaned forward, elbows on knees.

“Did you hear Madi? She was so excited to see Paul, even after knowing what he did.”

“Madi hasn’t seen him in three months. She would do the same for you—”

“No, she wouldn’t, and you know it.” Tears rolled down Susan’s cheeks. “She’s been wrapped around his finger her whole life. Daddy’s little girl.”

Bryan went to the bed now and sat beside her. “Then why expect it to be any different now?”

“It didn’t matter until now. Whose side are you on, anyway?” Susan rolled over and punched the pillow beneath her head, her back toward him.

“Susan, listen. I hear the way you and Paul talk to each other. I’m not saying what he did was right. It definitely wasn’t, but you both need to work on your communication skills. What about counseling? I know Paul didn’t want to go in the past, but why not try again? For the kids’ sake.”

“He won’t go.”

“Maybe, maybe not. But he definitely won’t go if you don’t ask him.”

Tanner barked. And barked some more.

“I’d better go see what’s going on. Are you coming?” Bryan lightened his tone. Hopefully, his sister would ease up as well—if that were possible. “Beef tacos sound good. Does the offer still stand? I’m starving.”

“Paul said he was only going to say hi to the kids. I doubt he’ll keep to his word. Tell me when he leaves.” Susan ignored his question, brought her legs up to a fetal position, and covered herself with a blanket. This separation was brutal.

“Ashley hasn’t come back with the dog food yet. I’m starting to get worried.”

“She’s not back?” Susan turned over and grimaced. “Oh no. I might have blown it.”

Tanner barked again.

Bryan looked from the door to his sister and back again. “What do you mean?”

“I let the cat out of the bag about Ethan seeing you with a diamond ring.”

“That’s not so bad.” Bryan shrugged. “Now Ashley knows how serious I am about her.”

“And that you had a hard time getting over Shelly.”

Her words were like a punch to the gut. “You didn’t.”

Susan nodded and wrapped her arms around her drawn legs. “I’m sorry.”

Bryan didn’t know who he was madder at, his sister for opening her mouth about Shelly—the one person Ashley compared herself to on a regular basis, or himself for sending Ashley away on an errand. “I need to rescue Tanner and find Ashley. Coming down?”

“In a little while.” Susan leaned her head back against the wood headboard. “Look, I know I’m being immature. My kids come first. But this separation makes me feel like an ugly, insecure teenager all over again.”

Bryan nodded. “I get that, really I do, but it’s time we both face things head on.” The sentiment would be easier said than done.

30

Instead of working on the albums this past weekend, Ashley had chosen to sleep in, take long walks on the beach, and watch old movies—all to keep her mind away from picturing Bryan dating Shelly.

A knot twisted her insides.

Now as Bryan drove Ashley to her parents’ home for the weekly Sunday night dinner, a box of photos sat at her feet.

She hadn’t seen Bryan since Susan told her he and Shelly had once been a couple. After dropping off the dog food at Susan’s house, she told Madi she was feeling sick and got a ride home from Paul. Later that night, Bryan had called. She couldn’t help it. When he’d asked her why she hadn’t told her she was feeling sick, she’d sent a barb his way about not keeping secrets from him.

The next day, Bryan left flowers for her on her porch. He’d called numerous times over the weekend concerned about her health, but she let the calls go to voicemail. If only he knew the real reason she didn’t want to see him. In fact, she almost canceled tonight until the idea of having her family help with the photos came to mind. Plus, she couldn’t ignore Bryan forever. Trouble was, she didn’t know what to say.

Bryan filled the gap. “Are you sure your family wants to pitch in?”

“Why wouldn’t they?” Ashley attempted to conceal the sarcastic edge to her voice.

“I’m not saying they wouldn’t help, just that you might’ve warned them. Your mom doesn’t like surprises, remember?”

“Depends on the surprise.” An engagement would definitely be welcome. At this point, Ashley wasn’t counting on it and had no idea what her answer would be. “I think everyone will enjoy looking at old photos.”

“But do you think the scrapbooks will get done tonight? That’s the reason you’re bringing the box, right?”

Of course that was the reason. Bryan knew that. Why was he pushing? “The scrapbooks won’t get done sitting at the beach house while we’re having dinner either, so I figure any amount of organization will be progress.”

“True.” Bryan pulled up into her parents’ driveway and cut the engine. “Susan is meeting us here and dropping Madi off. I’m surprised she lasted the whole weekend. I couldn’t imagine leaving Tanner after watching the boys manhandle him. Besides, Susan has enough on her plate with Paul coming back into the picture.”

“I’m sure it was better that way.” Ashley reached between her knees and hoisted the box on her lap.

“You know, I would’ve come over Saturday to take care of you.”

“And risk catching whatever I had?” Or having a fight. It was better to get together in public where she could remain civil than to explode in private, the hurt of Bryan’s secret gnawing a hole in her heart.

“It would’ve been worth it. We finally had a weekend alone.” Bryan reached over and rubbed the back of his fingers down the side of her cheek. If she wasn’t mistaken, Bryan was going to kiss her in her parents’ driveway.

She reached for the handle and opened her door. “There will be other weekends. Madi can’t live with us forever.”

“Ashley, hold on. Please?”

“We don’t want to be late. It’s six o’clock.” She stepped out of Bryan’s truck.

A white car came to a stop directly behind them, blocking the driveway. Madi got out, then reached into the backseat for her duffle bag and pillow. She slammed the passenger’s side door, and Susan peeled away from the curb and down the street.

Bryan offered to take Madi’s things and put them inside the truck. “No use bringing them inside.”

The girl’s smile faded. “I still don’t understand why Tanner couldn’t have stayed with us. It’s not like I don’t know how to take care of a dog.”

“Madi, please. We’ve been over this. You can see Tanner another time.” It was Bryan’s turn to slam the truck’s door.

“My brothers were pestering me all weekend.”

Bryan took the box of photos from Ashley. “Well, I’m glad you had the decency to leave Ashley alone.”

“Are you feeling better?” Madi looked at Ashley.

Not really. “Thank you for asking, I—”

“ ’Cause I sure don’t want to get sick. Brandon’s having a pool party, and I don’t want to miss it. Oh, don’t worry. Mom said I could go.” Madi walked a few paces ahead to the front door.

As much as Ashley wanted to believe her, she’d check with Susan.

Madi walked into the house, letting the screen door slam.

Ashley opened the door, allowing Bryan to walk in first with the box of photos.

Tori’s girls squealed, grabbed Madi’s hands, and pulled her toward the backyard.

Bryan leaned in toward Ashley. “Are you thinking what I’m thinking?”

Since when have I ever known what’s on your mind? “I don’t know. What are you thinking?”

“We need to have a chat with Susan. I didn’t even know Brandon had a pool.” Bryan set the box down in the entryway.

“Yeah, seems a little fishy to me.”

Mom approached. “Hi, you two. What’s in the box?”

“Photos.” Ashley hugged her mom. “I thought we could look through them after dinner.”

“How’re the scrapbooks coming along?”

“Slow. I was hoping everyone could help me—”

Mom shook her head. “Don’t count on Dad.”

Bryan took Ashley’s coat and hung it in the closet. “I won’t be of much help either.”

“And Tori will be watching Max.” Mom motioned them into the kitchen.

“Is Lauren here?” Ashley hoped her sister read the text she wrote yesterday, asking for the photo back. If Lauren didn’t have any leads by now, she probably never would. Time to apply for a new credit card and hire a private detective to find the girl in the photo. No more waiting around.

“A few days ago, Lauren said they were coming, but I wouldn’t count on it. Sean’s been working overtime, and today they went to Monterey—or was it San Francisco? I can’t remember.” Mom pulled the Mexican casserole out of the oven. “Ashley, can you help me finish setting the table? Bryan, if you could round up everyone and tell them dinner’s ready.”

“Gladly.” He smiled then went to the family room leaving Ashley and her mom alone in the kitchen.

“Sure you don’t want me to call Lauren to make sure?” Ashley bit her lip.

Mom swatted the air. “Let them be. And if they come, it’s easy to put two more plates at the table.”

Ashley grabbed the plates, napkins, and silverware, and headed to the dining room, her sour attitude going with her. She stood a moment gathering her thoughts. Besides the mystery photo and her strained relationship with Bryan, the only thing that would make life worse is if her cancer came back. She shuddered at the thought and rubbed her hand down the side of her right leg.

“Need help?” Tori came up beside her.

Ashley cleared her throat and pushed down the lump that had formed. She found her voice. “How many are here?”

“Nine tonight, unless Lauren and Sean show up.” Tori grabbed hold of the napkins and spread them around the table. Her eyes met Ashley’s. “Okay, what’s going on? Are you still upset with Bryan?”

“Shh.” Ashley glanced over her shoulder.

Tori passed out the plates. “You haven’t talked with him yet?”

“No, and I don’t know when I’m going to. It’s his secret to tell, not mine.” Ashley fisted the silverware and set them down at each place.

“It does seem strange that Bryan hasn’t told you about Shelly. What are you going to do about it?”

“Let’s say I’m reevaluating our relationship. He’s got a lot of explaining to do.”

“Time to eat.” Bryan called to the girls in the backyard then motioned to Ashley’s father and brother-in-law. The men sat in recliner chairs watching the 49ers play the Seahawks.

Drew pulled the lever on the side of the chair and brought his feet to the carpet below. “Hey, Bryan. When’d you get here?”

“Just walked through the door in time for dinner.”

Mr. Stevens grinned as he hoisted himself up from the leather chair. “My wife knows how to make a mean Mexican casserole, that’s for sure.”

The football game and comfortable furniture lured Bryan, but the enticing aroma from the kitchen pulled him more.

The men made their way down the hall.

“Hold up a minute.” Drew grabbed Bryan’s arm then directed his words to Ashley’s father. “We’ll be right there, Dad.”

Once the older man was out of earshot, Drew folded his arms across his chest and sneered. “Tori told me.”

Bryan mimicked his stance. “Told you what?”

“Don’t you think Ashley’s been through enough in her life? Everyone in the family is protective over her, me included.”

Where is he going with this? “O-kay?”

“Most of the time they downplay situations because they don’t want to see her get hurt.”

“Your point? Why don’t you come out and say it?”

“You two have been dating a long time now. Shouldn’t you be totally open with how you feel? Talk about your future, and your past for that matter, including previous relationships.”

What was Drew trying to be? His conscience? It wasn’t as though he’d planned to keep Shelly a secret. He and Ashley had been dating two years before Shelly and Peter showed up at their church. From the first time the women met, Ashley had compared herself to the blonde, never feeling as though she measured up. Why would he purposefully make a bad situation worse?

But by keeping quiet, he had made it worse.

In hindsight, he regretted not being honest from the beginning. But he’d had a reason. By opening that can of worms, he’d have to deal with his own failure and expose Shelly, too. And now?

Drew’s girls brushed passed them on their way to the dining room.

“Aren’t you coming?” Madi asked.

Bryan clapped Drew on the shoulder. “Thanks for the tip.”

Drew looked like he was going to say more but clamped his mouth shut. They followed the girls to the dining room.

Between Susan’s admission, Ashley’s cold shoulder, and Drew’s reprimand, the time had arrived for Bryan to come to grips with his fear—or risk losing Ashley.

Bryan reached under the table for Ashley’s hand and gave it a squeeze. Her father led the prayer. Afterward, she looked at him briefly with her big blue-green eyes then turned away. Is finding out about Shelly the reason Ashley stayed away from him the past two days?

All weekend long, he’d attempted to gather the courage to tell her about his past, but each time he’d tried, the call went to voicemail. He thought about leaving a message, but what kind of man would he be if he did that?

“Bryan, your plate?” Ashley’s mom stood at her spot at the table, dishing out the casserole. A large piece balanced on the spatula.

“Oh, sorry.” Bryan handed her his plate.

He hoped the hot meal would warm his insides because the icy looks he received from Drew and Tori sent chills down his spine.

31

“Hey, Bryan, what brings you by?” Peter stood in the doorway of his duplex, not budging. Was he going to ask him in or make him stand outside? The weather was a cool fifty degrees, not cold, but still chilly.

Bryan shoved his hands into his jeans pockets. “Mind if I come in?”

“It’s late.”

Bryan could take a hint, but his future with Ashley depended on it. “I’m sorry. It’s important.”

Peter glanced over his shoulder then back at Bryan. “Shelly and I are in the middle of something. Can you come back later?”

“Who is it, Peter?” Shelly’s voice floated across the room.

Peter’s mouth twisted. “Bryan.”

“Don’t stand there. Let him in,” Shelly called from inside the house before she appeared in the doorway. “Hey, Bryan.” She gestured him inside. “Take a seat, and I’ll make some tea.”

“Actually, I’m not planning on staying long. I don’t want to intrude.”

She closed the door behind him. “Long enough for one cup?”

“You might as well give in. She’s a determined woman,” Peter said, his voice resolute.

I remember well.

Bryan kept his thought to himself. “All right. One cup.” He walked across the room and sat on a stool by the kitchen counter.

Shelly filled the pot with water and set it on the stove to heat. Funny how back in college he thought for sure he was going to marry the athletic blonde—until she put an abrupt stop to their relationship. Thank goodness, he was over her now.

Shelly opened the cabinet and pulled out a selection of flavors. “Which kind would you like?”

Personally, he wasn’t a big fan of tea, but he’d pick one out to make her happy. “That one looks good.”

“Vanilla Chai.” She smiled. “Have you had it before?”

Bryan shook his head. “No.”

Peter let out a sarcastic laugh. “I don’t want in on this tea party. I’ll be in the back room playing a video game,” he excused himself.

What was with Peter tonight?

Shelly rolled her eyes. “Boys and their toys.”

“Are you sure I shouldn’t come back another time?”

“No, it’s fine. So what brings you by?”

Bryan waited until she poured the boiling water into their cups and set the tea bags in to steep before broaching the subject of their breakup. He needed answers and wasn’t going to leave until he got them. They sat at the round circular table in the small kitchen, the mixture of vanilla and peppermint steaming from the mugs.

He swirled the tea bag around. “Is this the life you dreamed about? I remember you not liking the idea of me being a teacher. A doctor or lawyer, maybe, but a teacher …” He let the rest go unsaid.

“And I married a mechanic.” Shelly finished his sentence. She removed the tea bag then glanced up at him. “I was pretty unfair to you, wasn’t I?”

“Yes, you were, but we were young, and you were only repeating what your parents told you.” He copied Shelly’s movements, removing his tea bag with a spoon. He brought the cup to his mouth and sipped the tea. Not bad.

“Peter and I’ve been fighting a lot.” Shelly set her cup down. “I’m sorry. That was inappropriate.”

Bryan waved her off, hoping to put an end to that line of conversation. He wasn’t here to discuss Shelly and Peter’s relationship.

Shelly folded a napkin over and over into a small square. “Ever since you came the last time, it’s been rough.”

Bryan’s eyes narrowed. “Since I came over?”

“Peter’s been comparing himself to you, asking me if you’d remember this or if you’d do that. It’s exhausting! It doesn’t matter how many times I tell him not to compare and that I love him. He still won’t believe me.” She covered her mouth with a hand, stopping herself.

That explained Peter’s reluctance to let him in tonight.

“Ashley’s been comparing herself to you for the past year, and she didn’t even know we’d dated until a few days ago.” He regretted the words the minute they were out of his mouth. They were walking on thin ice, sharing things they shouldn’t, and he didn’t like it.

Shelly’s brows lifted. “You’ve never told her?”

“I’ve never told anyone.”

“How’d she find out?”

“Susan. She told Ashley one of the reasons I hadn’t proposed is because I had a hard time getting over you.”

“Bryan, is that true?” Her words came out in a hushed tone. “I never knew.”

“How could you have known? You didn’t stick around.” Bryan leaned back and took another sip of his tea. He didn’t want Shelly to think he was hitting on her. Better clear the air. “I’ve moved on. I love Ashley with all my heart. But before I can propose, I need to know what happened between us so I don’t make the same mistake.”

“Want more tea?” Shelly stood, grabbed her cup, and moved to the kitchen.

Bryan followed after her. “Shelly, please.”

“Bryan, I don’t want to talk about it.” She steeled herself against the edge of the kitchen counter, staring straight ahead through the kitchen window.

Maybe they shouldn’t be having such an intimate conversation, but Peter was the one who went into the other room, leaving them alone. “Don’t avoid me. I have a right to know.” He kept a safe distance. “I haven’t been fair to Ashley, and Peter’s one of my best friends. Please, for all of our sakes, we’ve got to get past this.”

Shelly tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, revealing a delicate diamond earring. Her brows furrowed, and she pressed her lips together as if contemplating an idea.

“It’s time,” Bryan urged.

She let out a breath. “Wait for me in the family room, and give me a few minutes while I talk with Peter.”

Bryan nodded. “All right.”

During the time he waited for Shelly, he looked at the photos that lined the mantel. A few captured the genuine smile he remembered so well, showing the dimple in her right cheek. A couple of the photos showed Shelly smiling, but yet her eyes told a different story. Were they taken after they broke up? Must have been. Peter was in one of the pictures, his arm draped across her shoulder.

On further inspection, she looked heavier than he’d remembered. Was she depressed? Eating more than usual? He set the photo down suddenly aware that Shelly could walk into the room at any moment.

Bryan sat on the brown sofa and waited, scrunching a throw pillow under his arm and crossing his ankle over his knee. He toyed with his keys. The more time that ticked by, the more anxious he became. Maybe he shouldn’t have come.

What could Shelly possibly need to tell him? Did she think he couldn’t handle it? Was she afraid she was going to hurt his feelings?

“Sorry to keep you waiting.” Shelly’s voice hitched. She took a photo album off the bookcase.

He didn’t know if he was ready. Whatever it was made her upset. Should he back down? “Shelly, if you’d rather we do this another time—”

“No, I need to finally tell you the truth. Peter agreed. In fact, he looked relieved.”

“Okay, go on,” Bryan prodded, wanting to get this conversation over with.

Shelly joined him on the couch. “Our senior year in college was amazing. We had so many fun times and shared so many memories. Until that point I had never met anyone who accepted me so unconditionally, but there was a big problem. I hadn’t been living out my faith, and we were doing things we shouldn’t be doing.”

“Now that I’m a Christian, I get that. But why walk away from me?”

“I couldn’t commit myself to someone who didn’t believe the way I did. The day you asked me to marry you I flipped out. I knew if I saw you again I wouldn’t be strong enough to let you go. Thought it would be easier if I never contacted you again.”

Bryan wanted to argue but thought it best to listen.

Shelly looked away from him and opened the photo album. “It wasn’t easy, especially when I found out I was pregnant. This is the ultrasound image of our baby.” She pointed to the bean-shaped spot on the picture.

Could it be? Had he fathered a child?

“That summer I moved in with some friends and slept on their couch. I had so many conflicting emotions, and I didn’t know what to do. Should I tell you? Should I not?” She showed him photos of her growing abdomen, and tears slid down her cheeks. “I’ve never even told my parents.”

Bryan’s hands grew clammy. “What happened?”

“One day my car broke down on the side of the road, and I had it towed to a shop to get it repaired. That’s where I met Peter.” Her facial features softened, and her eyes glistened. “He listened to me and encouraged me. He also prayed with me. Peter believed in God the same way I did. It confirmed to me that the relationship we had, although great in many ways, lacked the foundation for a lasting marriage. I couldn’t do that to our baby.”

Bryan rubbed his sweaty palms down the sides of his jeans. He turned the next page of the photo album, not knowing what to expect.

“Peter and I became closer. The friendship turned into something more. We both knew it. Then late one night, I called him to take me to the hospital. Something was wrong.” Shelly’s voice wobbled. “Bryan, at twenty weeks, I miscarried.”

His vision blurred, and he blinked away the moisture. “I should’ve been there for you—”

“You would have, but I didn’t give you a chance.”

Bryan stiffened. “No, you didn’t.”

“I was scared. Scared of loving someone who didn’t believe the way I did. Scared of starting a marriage that most likely would’ve failed.”

The long-held secret was out. Bryan stared at his shoes, taking it all in.

An awkward silence passed between them.

Shelly closed the photo album. “I’ve wanted to do this for a long time.” She leaned in. “Bryan, will you please forgive me?”

He hesitated. By the fearful look in her eye, he could tell she was afraid he would decline. His gut reaction was to walk away and tell her he’d think about it. The news she shared was a lot to take in, overwhelming really. But he believed God had forgiven Shelly, and he’d put her out of her misery for his own sake so they could move on with their lives. “As hard as it was to hear, I appreciate you telling me the truth. But I need some time—”

The tightness in his shoulders remained. He made his way to the door, needing fresh air. He stepped onto the front porch.

Shelly rested against the doorframe. “Will you be okay?”

“I don’t know. I think so. Good night, Shelly.” He took a few steps down the sidewalk, then turned back. “Oh, whatever is going on with you and Peter, work it out. He’s a good man.”

“I know. Thank you.” She raised a hand to wave. “And please tell Ashley everything. She has a right to know.”

Bryan turned and strode to his car, the ‘what if’ questions swirling around in his mind. Would he have found Christ if he and Shelly never broke up? Maybe, maybe not. It was that rock-bottom place that brought him to seek advice from Paul. He told him the only way to peace was to turn to God. And that He’s the one who held Bryan’s future in his hands.

But a baby?

How had he allowed himself to get Shelly pregnant? College days seemed like a world away, and yet seeing the pictures, spending time with Shelly now brought everything back. He’d been a loose cannon. Yes, he knew Shelly was a Christian, but it hadn’t mattered. He pressured her into an intimate relationship, and now he paid the price. He made sure he didn’t cross that line with Ashley, as difficult as that was, but would she understand his choices before he committed his life to God? Could she forgive him for his past? For getting Shelly pregnant?

Could he ever forgive himself?

32

Kayla stacked the last of the boxes. All weekend long, she’d packed up her apartment, first her medical books to sell back to the university bookstore then her personal things. It had taken three full days, and her muscles screamed for a soak in the tub.

“Are you sure you’re doing the right thing?”

Kayla expected the question from her parents, but from Chloe? “Are you having second thoughts about me moving in with you? I thought you liked the idea. Said you’d have peace knowing someone was at your apartment when you visited your sister.”

“That’s not it at all.” Chloe opened the refrigerator and pulled out two soft drinks. She handed one to Kayla. “I’m only thinking about you. You’ve worked so hard. Are you sure you want to give it all up?”

“What I’m giving up is the stress of trying to please my parents. Believe me. It feels good to finally be free—to do what I’ve always dreamed of doing.” She popped the lid and took a long swig.

“Does that mean you’ve applied to design school?”

“I sent in my application yesterday. In the meantime, I’m going to look for a job in retail and continue designing clothes.”

“Did you hear about Jeremy?”

The soda stuck in Kayla’s throat. She swallowed hard. “What about Jeremy?”

“He got the intern position.”

“Oh, I’m so relieved.” Kayla’s heart squeezed. She missed spending time with her friend and lab partner.

“Hasn’t he told you? I thought you’d be the first to know.”

“We haven’t been talking lately.” Kayla set her soda can on the coffee table, dropped on the sofa, and took in the view of the city. She might never live in such a luxurious apartment again and wanted to capture the moment. She hugged a pillow to her chest.

Chloe joined her on the couch. “What do you mean you haven’t been talking? I thought he was your best friend, beside me, of course.”

“I blew it. That’s how. He told me he was interested in me, and I used him to help me study. Some friend I am.”

Chloe sent her a hard stare. “But I know you care for him in a deeper way, not to take advantage. You’re not like that.”

“If you only knew.” Kayla stood, walked around the chaise by the window, and leaned her head against the cold glass.

Chloe came up beside her. “What are you talking about? I thought I sensed something going on between you two at my party. What happened?”

“I only almost ruined his career.” Kayla shielded her face with her hand to hide from her friend’s scrutiny.

Chloe rubbed her shoulder. “I’m sure it’s not as bad as all that.”

“If I tell you, promise me you won’t judge me?”

“I promise. What could you have done that was so horrible? You don’t have a mean bone in your body.”

Kayla returned to her spot on the couch. “I let my mom believe Jeremy was trying to sabotage me—to keep her from being disappointed in my failing grades.”

“You didn’t? What did you tell her?”

“I mentioned his name when she asked about school, and she assumed the worst. I tried to make her understand, but there was no convincing her. And, as you know, she works with Dr. Collins …”

“Where was I while all this was happening?”

“You were busy getting back together with David, and I was too ashamed to tell anyone.”

Chloe’s brows narrowed. “Wow.” That one word spoke volumes.

“Hey, in my defense, I did talk with my professor—and quit medical school. I wasn’t going to let Jeremy take the fall for my mistake. He’s going to make an incredible doctor, and I’m thrilled he got the intern position. He deserves it.”

Chloe hesitated before rejoining Kayla on the couch. “Thanks for telling me.”

“Do you think less of me? Are we still friends?”

“Less of you? No. And yes, we’re definitely still friends. You did the right thing.”

Kayla heaved a sigh. Now if she could only share the truth with Jeremy.

Chloe scanned the apartment. “You’re going to miss this place.”

Kayla scrunched up her nose to keep the tears away. “I know.”

The doorbell chimed. The movers were here to empty her apartment.

“You want to do what?” Kayla maneuvered between the boxes inside Chloe’s living room, her cell phone tucked between her ear and shoulder.

“Take you out to dinner. I want to celebrate.” Jeremy’s voice held a playful tone.

Should she let on that she knew he got the intern position? “Jeremy I’ve treated you terribly. Are you sure you wouldn’t rather take someone else?”

“How many times do I have to put myself out there? I only want to be with you.”

His tender words were like a balm on an open wound. “What time do you want to meet?”

“That’s better. How about I pick you up at your place at seven?”

She had to think fast. Jeremy didn’t know she no longer lived at her apartment—or that she was no longer a medical student. “I’m at Chloe’s right now. How about I meet you somewhere?”

“All right. How about L’ardoise Bistro.”

L’ardoise was a nice restaurant, maybe too nice for her tight budget. “That’s kind of pricey, don’t you think? I’m open for anything. Sure we shouldn’t meet somewhere else?”

Jeremy growled. “Are you telling me I can’t afford to take a woman out to dinner?”

“No, I didn’t mean that.” Kayla squeezed her eyes shut. “I’m messing this up, aren’t I?”

“Yes.” Jeremy laughed. “Let me come get you.”

The photo Lauren sent her had been lost in the move, and Kayla had torn the place apart. Kayla looked around the room at all the clutter. “It’s easier if we meet.”

“If you insist. By the way, I consider this a date, so tonight is my treat.”

An official date? She could hear the smile in Jeremy’s voice.

“All right.” Kayla looked down at her T-shirt and baggy sweats. “In that case, maybe we’d better make it seven thirty. I need more time to get ready.” And find the photo. She rummaged through the box marked “Miscellaneous” for the third time.

“Okay, I’ll give you an extra half hour. It shouldn’t be too busy on a Monday night, but I’ll call and make reservations. See you at seven thirty.”

Kayla grinned. “I’ll be there.”

Two hours later, Kayla waited outside L’ardoise Bistro for Jeremy to arrive. A couple of men had already offered to buy her something to drink at the bar. As flattering as that was, she was never into the bar scene and wouldn’t ruin the night with Jeremy.

A nervous flutter tickled her insides. After all that she’d been through in the last few weeks, she liked the idea of dating Jeremy. But she didn’t want to get ahead of herself. One date at a time.

“Sorry I’m late.” His words reached her before she saw him.

She turned around and smiled. He wore a dark suit and tie that brought out his olive complexion and brown eyes. He was handsome, all right.

“You’re only late by a few minutes. I’ll forgive you this time.” She flashed him a grin.

“Parking was difficult. I had to walk several blocks to get here.” Jeremy took her hand. “You look stunning.”

“Thank you.” His perusal brought another smile. He wasn’t shy about his attraction, and it made her glad she chose her outfit carefully—a black skirt and a drape-back blouse—one of her newest creations—and spiked heels.

“Ready to eat?”

She couldn’t remember when she’d eaten last. “Definitely.”

Fifteen minutes into their meal, Jeremy raised his glass. “Here’s to my new intern position and to you for passing your finals.”

She clinked his glass, a grin on her face even though she had a sinking feeling in the pit of her stomach.

“For a minute, I thought Dr. Collins was going to offer you the position, not that I wouldn’t have been happy for you,” he backpedaled, “but I’ve been talking about it all semester.”

Kayla laughed it off. “What gave you that impression? With my up and down grades, I would be the last person Dr. Collins would consider for the intern position.”

“It was strange. He called me into his office then hemmed and hawed about all kinds of mundane things as if he was trying to make small talk. He told me he worked with your mom at the hospital, said she approached him and suggested you for the position. But then Dr. Collins stopped mid-sentence, as though he felt guilty for revealing that piece of information. Next thing I know, he’s pulling out my application and asking me if I’d like the job—as simple as that. No interview or anything. Strange, huh?”

“Jeremy, there’s something you need to know—”

“Kayla, what’s past is past. We hit a rough spot, so what?”

“It’s more than that.” Kayla twirled her water goblet. “I could’ve ruined everything you’ve worked so hard for.”

“You’re not making sense.”

Kayla blinked hard and stole a breath. “My mom did want me for the intern position. She misunderstood our relationship and thought you were standing in my way.”

“How? What do you mean?”

“She told Dr. Collins that you were being inappropriate with the female students.”

“What?” Jeremy’s face pinched. “What gave her that idea?”

“My mom was mad at me for my slipping grades and wanted an explanation. I was in a panic. I said your name, and she made assumptions. I could’ve cost you your career.”

Jeremy leaned back in his seat, a look of defeat on his face.

“I tried to make it right,” Kayla continued. “I went to Dr. Collins and told him the truth. At the time, I didn’t know if he believed me, but now I do. He gave you the intern position.”

“True.” Jeremy nodded.

“Jeremy, I used you. There’s no excuse for that.”

“You and a few other girls in the class. Hey, it’s tough being the smart guy.” His features relaxed a little.

“Will you forgive me?”

Jeremy rubbed his jaw, apparently grappling with his decision. “Look, I got the intern position, and you passed the exam. No harm done.” He reached for her hand across the table and rubbed his thumb across her skin. “But promise me there won’t be any more secrets between us.”

No more secrets?

For some strange reason, telling Jeremy she quit medical school was harder than telling her parents. The words wouldn’t come. Maybe if she told him she moved out of her apartment, it would be a little easier.

“Kayla, what’s up? I lost you for a minute.”

“Jeremy, you’re a good friend—the best.”

“Oh, no. Now where’s this going?”

“Not where you think. In fact, your opinion means the world to me. I’m afraid what I’m going to tell you is going to disappoint you.”

“Tonight is apparently the night of confessions. Go on …”

“I quit medical school and moved out of my apartment.” She winced, ready for his reaction.

Jeremy widened his eyes and leaned forward.

“I moved in with Chloe for the time being and applied to fashion design school. It’s what I’ve always wanted.”

“But why move out of your apartment?”

“My parents are no longer supporting me. I’m on my own.”

Jeremy grinned. “I knew you could do it.”

“Do what, exactly?”

“Make your own decisions. Conquer your fears. Kayla, this is big!”

Kayla sat up a little straighter. “You mean it?”

“There’s only one thing that bothers me.” Jeremy set a credit card on the bill for the waiter.

Kayla’s brows furrowed, and she leaned back in her seat. Here it comes.

“The part about us being friends. That’s good and all, but I have something else in mind.” He reached for her hand again, this time entwining their fingers. “Kayla, I can’t stop thinking about you—about the possibility of us. Would you be willing to try?”

After all she’d told him, he still wanted to be with her? She didn’t know if she could meet Jeremy’s expectations, but she was willing to open her heart—and to share her deepest secret. “Before I answer, I have one more thing to tell you.”

Between Jeremy’s phone call and their date, she found the photo stuck inside one of her journals and slipped it inside her purse. She retrieved it now.

“There’s more? By the look on your face, I’d say it’s something serious.”

“You can say that.” She handed him the photo.

Jeremy shrugged a shoulder. “Cute kids. Who are they?”

“The younger one is me. The older girl is Ashley, my biological sister.”

“But I thought you were an only child—”

“I thought so too until a couple of months ago.”

For the next ten minutes, Kayla and Jeremy went back and forth discussing whether or not she should meet Ashley.

“Kayla, what are you afraid of?”

She’d been wrestling with Jeremy’s question for weeks, ever since that first phone call with Lauren. “Maybe I’m not ready for new relationships, us included—”

“Hold on. How about one new relationship at a time? Me first.” He grinned. “I promise, I’ll leave the decision to connect with your sister up to you. No pressure.”

“Thank you.”

“But I think it’d be a shame if she never got to meet you. You’re worth knowing. You have a good heart.”

She was worth knowing? Tears stung Kayla’s eyes. No one ever put it that way before.

They walked into the cool night air, her hand tucked securely in his. Jeremy was a special guy. And she couldn’t wait to see where their relationship would take them.

33

“What do you mean you don’t have it?” Panic rose in Ashley’s throat, her voice rising with it. When Lauren didn’t show up at dinner the other night, Ashley had left several messages asking for the photo back. Without a response, she did the only thing she thought best—show up at Lauren’s house to surprise her after work.

“I’m sorry. I should’ve given it back to you right away …” Lauren fumbled with her keys as she made her way to the front door. “Ashley, please give me a few more days. I promise I’ll have an answer for you then.”

Ashley’s heart beat hard in her chest. “No, I can’t wait any longer. I need answers now.”

“I have as much at stake as you have.” Lauren’s words came out in a rush.

“What do you mean?” Ashley raised her arms and let them fall by her side. “How could finding the girl in the photo, possibly my own flesh and blood, mean as much to you?”

Lauren stuck the key in the lock and opened the door. “Ashley, if I don’t have an answer for you by next Sunday, I’ll explain. For now, you’re going to have to trust that I have your best interest at heart.”

“Why does everyone walk on eggshells around me? I’m not fragile. I’m not that sick little girl anymore. I wish you and Tori would let me fight my own battles. Discover things on my own. I am capable, you know.”

“Tori? What does Tori have to do with this?” Lauren set her purse on the small table in the entryway and removed her coat before gesturing Ashley inside.

Ashley kept her ground on the front porch. Madi was waiting for her in the car.

“Well? What’s going on?” Lauren’s brows puckered, and she folded her arms.

Did Ashley want to explain how, according to Tori, Drew practically picked a fight with Bryan or how Tori tried to make Bryan’s secret a nonexistent issue? “I don’t want to get into it right now. Let’s just say I’m sick and tired of you and Tori treating me like glass, like I can’t handle life when it gets tough.”

Lauren’s eyes softened, and her voice came out in a hushed tone. “You’ve had your fair share of hard times already.”

“We all have. Tori’s still scared to death about how Max will develop, and you’re still hoping to get pregnant—”

A pained expression crossed Lauren’s face. She looked away. “Life is hard, isn’t it? But why should we be surprised?” Lauren waved a hand. “On Sunday, the pastor reminded us that Jesus promised we’d have trouble in this world, and I can’t stop thinking about it.”

“But do you remember the next sentence of that verse? It says for us to take courage. That’s exactly what I want to do, but you won’t let me. I need that photo.”

“Give me a few more days—until Sunday,” Lauren urged.

“All right, but that’s it.” Ashley sighed. “Then I’m going to hire a private detective.”

Lauren’s eyes widened. “If you can’t afford rent, how will you hire a private detective?”

“I’ll find a way. I have to know who she is.” Ashley rubbed the hem of her jacket with nervous fingers. “I’ll see you Sunday. And please bring the photo.” She turned and strode down the sidewalk without looking back.

When would her sisters realize she was tougher than she looked?

For the past couple of days, Bryan meant to tell Ashley about his previous proposal, the breakup, and Shelly’s miscarriage. Every time he practiced what he was going to say, the words came out stilted and jumbled, and made the situation sound worse.

More than anything, he was ashamed about the intimacy he and Shelly shared and how he had pulled her away from her faith. Maybe deep down he sensed it was wrong all along. Would Ashley understand?

Bryan reached inside his refrigerator for an orange and stood by the sink to peel it, his mind pondering his situation.

If he hadn’t met Ashley, the woman he was more and more certain God had planned for him, he would’ve been jealous over the fact Peter quickly stepped into the role of Shelly’s boyfriend. At least Bryan had a few years to get over the heartbreak before finding his true love—unlike Shelly. And now, it seems, they were having marriage trouble. Not to the extent of Susan and Paul, but struggling in their own way.

He tore off a section of the orange and popped it into his mouth.

If he weren’t careful, his relationship with Ashley would end if he didn’t get himself together and figure out how he was going to share his past. He wiped his hands, opened the kitchen drawer, and pulled out the velvet box with Ashley’s ring. The diamond sparkled in the light. Lord, it would look beautiful on her finger.

His cell phone rang, interrupting his thoughts. He didn’t recognize the number, but curiosity won, and he answered anyway.

“Hi, Bryan. It’s Lauren.”

Not another sister on his case. He played coy. “What’s up?”

“Can you keep a secret? At least for a little while?”

“Not if I have to keep it from Ashley—”

“Before you say no, please hear me out.”

His silence gave her permission to continue.

“Did Ashley show you the photo?”

“She showed me a lot of photos. Which one are you talking about?”

“The one of her and a smaller girl sitting in a wagon.”

“No. I don’t remember that one.”

“Ashley hasn’t shown you or talked to you about it?”

Had they both been keeping secrets? “Lauren, what’s going on?”

“The picture was taken before her adoption. The smaller girl is Ashley’s sister—her biological sister—and I found her.”

Maybe that’s why his girlfriend had been on edge. “Wow, that’s awesome! Ashley’s going to be so excited. When are you going to tell her?”

“That’s just it. I can’t tell her.”

Did he hear correctly? “Why not?”

“Because Kayla doesn’t want to be found. That’s where I’m hoping you come in. I need your help.”

“I’ll do anything to reconnect Ashley with her sister. What do you have in mind?”

Kayla snuggled under the covers on the air mattress in Chloe’s spare bedroom, exhilarated from her date with Jeremy—her second one in the past two days. Yesterday, he’d treated her to a picnic lunch at Golden Gate Park. The trails and gardens were an oasis, diverse and picturesque, a place where they could relax and reconnect with nature—and each other. They held hands during the day and shared a tender kiss when the date was over. She couldn’t believe she ever questioned whether the two of them should date. It was as if they were made for each other. This whole time she didn’t believe she measured up to someone like Jeremy, but his loving gestures and words proved her wrong.

But Jeremy hadn’t been the only one whispering life-affirming things in her ear. When she’d packed up her apartment, she found the small Bible Jeremy had given her under a stack of textbooks and had read the New Testament like a starving child. She was in awe that the God of the universe saw her as a masterpiece, holy and blameless in His sight. Slowly, she was starting to believe she was valuable.

In fact, her whole outlook on life was changing. Gone were the days of doing exactly what her parents expected of her. Instead, she was becoming more independent, more self-assured, and she liked where she was headed despite the uncertainty of her future. Now she had a new career path, a best friend who accepted her the way she was, a boyfriend who made her feel cherished, and a sister who … where did that come from?

Kayla reached for the photo on her nightstand. “Would you think I’m worth knowing?” She talked to the picture, replaying Jeremy’s words.

Another thought crossed her mind. Maybe meeting Ashley wasn’t about Kayla at all but being a caring friend to her sister. What had Lauren said that first time they talked on the phone?

They’d been one and three years old when they were taken from their birthparents and put into separate foster care homes because there were a limited number of families willing to take siblings, let alone one that would take on someone with serious medical issues. Lauren went on to say that when a family offered to adopt Kayla, the social worker jumped at the chance. And like the separate foster homes, the girls were adopted into two families. Lauren never said which one was adopted first, but Kayla had an idea it was her being the younger and healthier child. Why hadn’t her parents adopted Ashley, too? Didn’t they know about her?

At first the news about Ashley’s childhood cancer rattled Kayla, but her concern quickly evaporated once she discovered Ashley had recovered and was healthy. Then after seeing her sister for herself, Kayla’s inquisitiveness turned to jealousy over Ashley’s big family.

Who am I kidding? Ashley didn’t need another sister.

Kayla rolled over in her makeshift bed, pulled the quilt under her chin, and closed her eyes. But as hard as she tried, sleep wouldn’t come.

God, what do you want me to do?

34

Ashley’s car idled as close to the curb as possible. Cars lined both sides of the street. Loud music boomed from inside the ranch-style home. Ashley had questioned Susan’s approval of the pool party, but who was she to argue? Before dropping the teenager off, she told Madi to call her if the party got out of hand or if she wanted to come home before it was over. Madi never called, and Ashley couldn’t wait another minute. By the amount of cars lining the street and sounds coming from the home, it was a good thing she came when she did.

She punched in Madi’s number and waited as the phone rang and went to voicemail. Ashley pulled into the neighbor’s driveway, grabbed her key out of the ignition, marched up to the door, and pounded several times. When no one answered, she pushed her way in.

Teenagers filled every inch of the small home. Kids were in the center of the room dancing, their bodies swaying in suggestive movements. Couples sat on the couches, lips locked, making out in front of everyone. Empty beer cans littered the floor. Where were Brandon’s parents? More importantly, where was Madi?

As Ashley shimmied her way through, she received strange looks, but no one asked her why she was at the house or who she was looking for. Not one helpful soul in the group. She squeezed her way down the hall. All the doors were closed. She peeked into several rooms, discovering more partygoers, but no Madi.

Susan shouldn’t have allowed her daughter to attend. For goodness sake, the girl was only fifteen years old. A strange feeling grabbed at her gut. Ashley wasn’t the girl’s mother, so why did she feel so responsible for putting Madi in this situation?

Before she turned the knob on another door, Madi burst into the hallway from a room farther down the hall, tugging on the hem of her shirt, tears streaming down her face. She momentarily stopped when their eyes met then made a beeline into Ashley’s waiting arms. She pulled the girl close, and the two of them jockeyed their way out the front door and toward the neighbor’s house where Ashley’s car was parked.

Madi’s breath didn’t smell like she’d been drinking, nor did her gait seem altered. Ashley sent a silent prayer of thanks. At least Madi had stood her ground, not easy to do in a roomful of partying teens.

Once inside, Ashley hit the lock button and called 9-1-1. The dispatcher confirmed that the police should arrive momentarily. Ashley wasn’t the first to call. The neighbors must have already complained. She started the engine.

A teenaged boy stood on the front porch, looking up and down the street. “Is that Brandon? I recognize him from the photo.”

Madi slunk down. “Yes, hurry. Let’s get out of here.”

Ashley backed out of the driveway, put the car in drive, and stepped hard on the gas. She shot a quick glance in the rearview mirror. Brandon had spotted them. He ran after the car but quickly gave up.

The whole way home Ashley prayed Madi would open up and tell her what had happened, but she wouldn’t press. She remembered what it was like to be a teenager. Peer pressure and trying to fit in were the two biggest hurdles. Things were crazy at home, too. Life could be overwhelming.

Her heart went out to Bryan’s niece.

Ten minutes later, they came to a stop in front of the beach house, and Madi’s shoulders visibly relaxed. Her grandmother’s words rang true. The beach house was a safe haven—for both of them.

“Do you want to tell me what happened now, or would you rather wait until after your shower? I’ll make you a cup of hot chocolate.”

The teenager agreed to the latter, providing a flicker of hope.

While Madi showered, Ashley heated milk in a saucepan. She opened the cabinet and pulled out two large mugs then scooped two teaspoons of cocoa into each one. As she set marshmallows on top of the hot chocolate, Madi walked into the kitchen, wearing purple flannel pajamas under a fuzzy green robe, her hair smelling of peaches and cream. She sat on a stool by the counter and cradled a mug in her hands. “You and my mom were right.”

“We were, huh?” Ashley sat beside her on a stool. “What were we right about?”

“Brandon is way too old for me.” She took a sip of her hot chocolate and licked her upper lip. “I’m definitely not ready for a serious relationship.”

“It takes maturity to admit you need more time. There’s no shame in that.”

“I almost did something I’d be ashamed of, but I’m glad I walked away when I did.”

“I’m proud of you. Your mom would be, too.”

“Thanks.” Madi smiled and took another sip of her hot chocolate. “Hey, want me to help you work on a scrapbook?”

“Sure. The other night my family helped me organize a box of photos, so they’re ready to go. If you attach them to the pages, I’ll jot down the names of the people in the pictures.”

“How many more scrapbooks do you have to do? Seems like you’ve been working on them a long time.”

“Just a few more boxes. My goal is to have them done in a few weeks. I’m trying to convince my grandma to come for a visit.” They moved to the dining room table. Supplies filled the space.

Madi stopped short. “Does that mean I’ll have to go back home?”

“Don’t you think you’ll be ready by then?” Ashley handed Madi the glue stick and the stack of photos. She opened the scrapbook to the right page and set it in front of Madi. “I’m sure my grandma would like to sleep in her own bed, and this is only a two-bedroom house.”

The girl shrugged. “I guess I don’t have a choice.” The mature attitude from before was replaced with a sullen frown. Madi needed to go home, to get back to her family.

They worked next to each other in silence, each lost in their own thoughts.

Ashley missed her former relationship with Bryan before all the troubles with his family. They had been so close, near a proposal, and now? Ashley didn’t know if it was possible. She needed an explanation. Why hadn’t he mentioned his former love? Why did he omit the fact that they’d once been a couple? Was there more to it? Was Shelly the reason Bryan hadn’t proposed? Now that she was married, it didn’t make sense.

It was close to midnight before they’d completed that section of the scrapbook. Ashley covered a yawn. “Time for bed. I’ve got to work tomorrow. I’ll drop you off at Bryan’s house on my way. Be ready at nine thirty, okay?”

Madi followed her into the kitchen and set her empty mug in the sink. “Is everything okay between you and Uncle Bryan? Seemed weird the other night.”

Ashley opened the dishwasher and set the mugs inside. “It’s complicated. We haven’t been able to spend much time together—”

“Because of me.” Madi lowered her head. “I’ve been a big pain, haven’t I?”

Ashley draped her arm around the girl’s shoulder and led her down the hall toward the bedrooms. “Not just because of you. But yes, if I’m totally honest, you haven’t been the easiest person to be around.” She looked at Madi, crossing her eyes like she’d gone crazy.

The teenager laughed.

“Good night.” Ashley smiled. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

Bryan couldn’t believe he’d agreed to Lauren’s plan. He dialed Kayla’s number and glanced at the clock. 9:25 a.m. Madi would be here any minute.

“Hello?”

“Is this Kayla?”

“Yes. Who is this?” Kayla’s voice carried the same pitch as Ashley’s. They were definitely related.

“My name is Bryan Miller. I’m Ashley Stevens’s boyfriend.”

“Why are you calling me?” Suspicion crept into that tone.

Lauren had warned him that Kayla might not appreciate his phone call. “Please don’t hang up. I’ll get to the point. I was hoping you’d meet with me so I can answer any questions you may have about Ashley or her family. Thought you’d feel less pressure coming from me.”

“Aren’t you biased?” Her question caught him off guard.

Bryan stifled a laugh. “Maybe a little, but I think it would be a positive step, don’t you?”

“Be honest with me. Did Lauren put you up to this?”

Smart girl. Lauren mentioned she was a med student. How could he be truthful without sounding manipulated? “Would it make a difference in your decision?”

An awkward silence passed. “I guess not.”

“Great. When can you meet? How about lunch at Palapas in Aptos?” He didn’t want to sound presumptuous, but with school over for the summer now was as good a time as any. Plus, she hadn’t rejected him yet.

“Today?”

“Why not?”

“I don’t know.” The strain in Kayla’s voice set him on edge. She had to say yes. His relationship with Ashley depended on it. If he could show her how much he cared for her by helping her reconnect her with her sister, then maybe it would soften the blow about his past with Shelly.

Besides, time was of the essence. Lauren mentioned Ashley planned to hire a private investigator once she had the photo back. If Kayla declined his invitation, they’d have to tell Ashley that Lauren found her biological sister and that she didn’t want a relationship. Ashley would be devastated. On top of the news he had to give her, it would all be too much. And Bryan would do anything to protect the people he loved, even meet with Kayla in secret.

“Mind if I bring someone with me? Because I just started dating someone, and I wouldn’t want him to get the wrong impression.”

Bryan understood completely. He hadn’t quite thought through the implications of being spotted with a woman other than his girlfriend. Ashley was working at the animal clinic in Santa Cruz today, and she wouldn’t go to a restaurant twenty minutes away when she had a thirty-minute break. With Kayla’s boyfriend along, there shouldn’t be a problem. “So, you’ll come?”

“Yes, I’ll be there.”

“Great!” Bryan pumped his fist. “I’ll be wearing—”

“I know what you look like.”

“What?” Bryan’s eyes narrowed.

“It’s a long story. Couple of months ago I drove to Santa Cruz and saw you and Ashley together in front of her parents’ home. I couldn’t just knock on the door and introduce myself. Know what I mean? Lauren has some crazy ideas.”

He hoped meeting Kayla today wouldn’t be one of them.

Madi burst through the door. “Hey, Uncle Bryan. You can still catch Ashley. She’s waiting in the car.”

“I’ve got to run. See you at noon.”

“See who at noon?” Madi crinkled her brow.

Bryan tucked his cell phone in his back pocket and sent his niece a mind-your-own-business look. He raced out the door in time to see Ashley drive away. No good-morning kiss. No “I love you.” No anything.

How had their relationship come to this?

35

“Tell me I’m not making a huge mistake.” Kayla stared at herself in the mirror. She’d tried on several outfits already, and nothing made her feel confident or the least bit beautiful.

Chloe gathered the stack of scattered clothes. “I’m still trying to process the fact you have a biological sister.”

“You and me both.” Kayla stepped out of the pair of black pants, dropping them on the floor, and rummaged through her dress choices. “I just don’t know if Bryan’s on the up and up. What if Ashley’s there?”

“Didn’t you say he wanted to meet to give you more information? Doesn’t sound like he’s going to spring her on you. I’m sure he has more respect for you than that, if not for you, than for his girlfriend.”

Kayla slipped into a fitted green dress with capped sleeves and a sweetheart neckline. She picked out the fabric last spring and sewed the dress for a luncheon her mother hosted for the surgical staff at the hospital. “What do you think about this? Does it look like I’m trying too hard?”

“You’ll impress him all right. That dress was made for you. Literally.” Chloe laughed at her own joke.

“Very funny.” She ran her hand down her sides, smoothing out any wrinkles. “Seriously, do I look all right? Not too dressed up?”

“Girl, you can wear anything and look amazing. Stop stressing.”

“I want to make a good first impression, but I don’t want to give the wrong signal. Know what I mean?”

“Why? Are you afraid you’re going to steal your sister’s man?” The diva accent and the strut in Chloe’s step was comical—and completely uncalled for.

“Of course not! I only ask because Jeremy isn’t coming. He’s working with Dr. Collins and couldn’t get out of it.” Kayla ran a brush through her hair.

Chloe turned serious. “You won’t give Bryan the wrong impression if you’re all business. You’ve done countless interviews. Why should this be any different?”

Kayla swiped lip-gloss across her lips and added a layer of mascara to her lashes. “True, I do know how to act professional. I don’t know if I can pull off cool and confident when my insides are having a tug-o-war.”

Chloe zipped up the remainder of Kayla’s dress and laid a hand on her shoulder. “Breathe. Just remember to stay calm and breathe.”

She did as her new roommate asked and inhaled a breath. She let it out slowly. “I’ve never had a sibling before, and I’m scared. To be honest, I’m curious about Ashley, but I don’t know if I want to start a relationship. Is that terrible? Jeremy says it’s because I don’t know what I’m missing.”

“He’s right, you know. I have a feeling once you know more about Ashley, you’ll want to meet her. And if she’s anything like you, it’d be worth it.”

Jeremy had said virtually the same thing. “Hey, want to come with me? You’re always talking about going to Santa Cruz—”

Chloe stopped her midsentence. “Wish I could, but David and I already have plans. He won tickets to today’s Giants game.”

“David could ask a male friend to go with him. It’s not every day your best friend is going to meet her biological sister’s boyfriend. Talk about awkward.” Kayla slipped her feet into a pair of ballerina flats.

“You’ll be fine. I’d be a third wheel anyway. You’ll open up and ask a lot more questions without me there. It’ll be good for you.”

Kayla sent her a pleading look. “So there’s no way I can change your mind?”

“Stop looking at me that way. It may work with Jeremy but not me.”

“Please?”

Chloe shook her head. “You’re on your own. Plus, I haven’t showered yet.”

Kayla took a whiff. “You smell great. Like a flower.”

Her friend smiled, grabbed Kayla’s car keys and small purse off the dresser, and pointed Kayla in the direction of the door. “You’ll be fine. I promise.”

“Here goes nothing,” Kayla muttered.

“Except the beginning of the rest of your life.”

Kayla sucked in breath and went out the front door.

“You’re meeting Ashley’s biological sister?” The shocked look on Susan’s face did a number to the butterflies already flitting around in Bryan’s stomach. She stepped out of her house and closed the door. Wish she’d done that before making the big announcement. His niece and nephews were sure to have heard.

“Yes, and I’m going to be late if I don’t leave now. Thanks for letting me drop off Madi.” Sounded like a strange thing to say since the girl was his sister’s daughter. He made a move toward his car, but Susan stopped him with a hand. “Suz, please, I’ve got to go.”

“Have you told Ashley about Shelly? About what happened?”

He already regretted calling his sister the night he found out the truth. At least she hadn’t used the word miscarriage. Madi’s room was on the second floor right above them. It wouldn’t surprise him if she was listening through the window.

“Not yet, but I plan to—”

“The sooner the better.”

“Thanks for the reminder.”

Susan looked at him with the same pained expression she wore the day she couldn’t find Madi. “Secrets only bring heartache. I should know.”

“But Paul agreed to go to counseling. There’s hope.”

“A glimmer, but it’ll take a lot of work. I haven’t made up my mind whether or not it’s worth it—if our marriage is even salvageable.” She crossed her arms tight to her chest.

Bryan pulled out his car keys from his pocket. “One glance into your children’s faces makes it all worth it. I promise.” He took a few steps backward. “I’ve got to go. When I return, let’s talk about Madi’s transition back home. It’s time, don’t you think?”

“We’ll talk.” She raised her hand in farewell then went inside the house.

Bryan thought about Susan’s response the whole way to the Mexican restaurant. The inflection in her voice was positive, but her body language gave her away. She wasn’t ready for Madi to come home. He completely understood. The girl was a drama queen and high maintenance to boot. It took a lot of energy to keep her on the right path. He and Ashley had done a good job, and slowly, but surely, they were seeing a change, although a small one, in Madi’s behavior.

Ten minutes later, at 12:02 p.m., he pulled into the Seascape Village parking lot. A little late. He took the first available spot and hustled up the stairs to the main entrance. Scanning the restaurant, he noted several empty tables, but the patio was nearly full.

The hostess greeted him with a smile. “Welcome to Palapas. Do you have a reservation?”

That would’ve been a good idea. “No, I don’t.”

“How many in your party?”

“Three. Is anything open on the patio?”

“Let me check. I’ll be right back.”

The view overlooking Seascape Resort and the Monterey Bay was the same inside or out, but the nice weather and the situation called for fresh air. He glanced around the restaurant. White stucco walls, terra cotta floor tiles, and a thatched ceiling gave the ambiance of tropical Mexico. The dishes were also prepared “A La Cocina Fresca,” fresh from the kitchen. If the conversation turned sour, at least the food would be good.

A redheaded female came through the doors into the restaurant from the back patio. Earlier he wished he’d had a photo of Kayla, but no need for one now. She shared the same pert nose and chin as his sweetheart, though as she approached, he noted their eyes were a different color. Ashley’s were ocean blue-green while Kayla’s were chocolate brown.

“Bryan Miller? Kayla Witherspoon.” She stuck out her hand. All business and no warmth. He’d have to change that. Make her feel like family.

Bryan smiled. “Kayla, so nice to meet you. Wow, I see a resemblance—”

“I have a table outside.” She gestured, ignoring his observation. “Hope that’s okay.”

“Perfect.” Why’d she interrupt him? Maybe he’d save the similarities between the sisters for after lunch. Didn’t want to scare her off before they had a chance to talk.

Kayla led him through the door toward the far corner of the deck. Two water glasses sat opposite each other on the table.

“Your boyfriend already here?”

“No, that’s for you. Jeremy couldn’t make it.”

Maybe that’s why she looked uncomfortable. He shifted in his chair. Why hadn’t he invited someone to come along? A fellow teacher or Susan, perhaps. He sat across from Kayla and couldn’t get over the resemblance. Wow, Ashley has a blood relative. He caught himself staring and quickly averted his eyes to the menu. “Have you been here before?” he asked without looking up. Then he chanced a quick glance.

“No, this is the first time.” She picked up her menu. “What do you recommend?”

“They have a lot of seafood specialties if you like fish. Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with a house dish or combination plate. They also have vegetarian dishes if you don’t eat meat. I like the enchiladas, myself.” He was blabbering. He clamped his mouth shut.

“Think I’ll stick to a salad—maybe the ensalada de pollo dorado. Have you tried that before?”

Did he dare tell Kayla that was Ashley’s favorite dish? That she ordered the salad with charbroiled citrus chicken, tomatoes, and cabbage every time he had brought her to Palapas for lunch? “I haven’t personally, but I’ve heard it’s good.”

Kayla quirked a brow. “Ashley, right?”

“Yes.” He brought his elbows on the table, clasped his hands together, and rested his chin on his fists. “Speaking of Ashley, I have a feeling the two of you would hit it off.”

Kayla squirmed in her seat. “And why would you say that? You don’t know me.”

“True, but I know one thing. You drove an hour and a half to have lunch with me to talk about her. That says something.”

“I’m curious is all. I haven’t made a decision on whether or not to meet.”

“But you do want to know more about her,” he probed.

“Yes, I guess I do.” Kayla leaned back in her seat as if saying the words out loud surprised her.

Bryan smiled. “I’m ready for your questions. Fire away.”

“I’m telling you, Ashley, it was Bryan.” Tori’s voice, over the phone, shook.

Bryan had lunch with another woman? He’d never been unfaithful to her—until now. “It was probably a friend, another teacher, or …” She couldn’t imagine Bryan, the man she’d dated for three years, going out with someone behind her back. Then again, she never dreamed he’d keep a secret from her either. Ashley stripped off her latex gloves and threw them in the trash. Her next canine patient would have to wait for his immunizations. This phone call was too important. “Tell me again what you saw.”

“This is the first time Drew and I’ve been on a date since Max was born. Mom came over to watch the kids around twelve fifteen. We wanted to go to a restaurant overlooking the ocean since it was beautiful outside. My face hasn’t felt the sun since giving birth.”

Would Tori hurry up already? “So you’re inside Palapas and spot Bryan. Then what?” Ashley urged her sister along.

“When we arrived, the outdoor patio was full. I was disappointed but didn’t want Drew to know so I kept quiet—until I saw Bryan. He was seated across from a redhead. I only saw her face for a brief second when the two of them got up to leave.”

“Is she pretty?” The question slipped out before Ashley could stop herself.

“Yes, she’s definitely pretty. Reminds me of you in a way. Anyhow, Drew wanted to confront Bryan, but I wouldn’t let him. Told him I didn’t want our date ruined.”

Tension wound its way up Ashley’s neck and settled in her temples. She sat by the small table in the break room of the animal clinic, massaging the sides of her head. “I appreciate you letting me know,” she said through gritted teeth.

“That’s not all. I excused myself to the ladies’ room and followed them out the door, careful to stay out of sight.”

Ashley expelled a breath. “You didn’t!”

“Oh yes, I did.” Tori’s voice went into protective mode.

“And?” Did she have to pull everything out of her?

“They drove separate cars.”

The tight knot in Ashley’s stomach eased. “That’s good, right?”

“And I didn’t see them touch each other in any way. There were appropriate boundaries between them.”

Their first date? Could be a complete misunderstanding. Ashley wanted to give Bryan the benefit of the doubt. This whole conversation could’ve been avoided if she’d stuck around this morning when she dropped off Madi. Bryan might have told her who he was having lunch with. Ashley toyed with her earring. “So why are you calling me at work? Couldn’t it have waited?”

“You’re the one who told me he didn’t tell you about Shelly, remember?”

Yes, she remembered. Why had she told Tori? It only made her sister more suspicious. Ashley regretted her decision, but it was too late now. Bryan was definitely in the doghouse where Drew and Tori were concerned, and he’d have to paw his way out. “I’ve got patients waiting. Thanks for the phone call.” Rather, no thanks.

“I thought you should know.” Tori didn’t miss a beat. “Hey, if you need anything—like a shoulder to cry on or a place to escape your troubles—come on over. There are three children who would love to see their auntie.”

Did Tori think the offer would make her feel better?

Because she was only making her feel worse. Much, much worse.

36

Kayla dug her toes into the sand, the warm layer giving way to the cooler grains below. She buried her feet up to her ankles. Wrapping arms around bent knees, she closed her eyes, lifted her chin to the sun, and listened to the waves crashing against the shore.

Her intention when she had left the restaurant parking lot was to go straight home, but after driving ten minutes down the freeway, she turned off at the Park Exit and headed toward New Brighton State Beach. She didn’t know what made her decide to stop, just that she couldn’t go back to San Francisco. Not yet. Not after finding out that Ashley knew about the photo and wanted to hire a private investigator to find her.

At lunch, Bryan had told her she had until Sunday, the day Lauren would give Ashley the photo back, to decide whether or not to contact Ashley on her own. Otherwise, Lauren would tell her the truth—that Kayla didn’t want to be found, she didn’t want to meet and definitely didn’t want a relationship.

Was that what she really wanted?

She stuck her hand into her pocket, grasping the white napkin Bryan had given her with Ashley’s address and phone number written in black ink, a sharp contrast now in the glaring sun. She shaded her eyes and stared at the script, reading the street name over and over until she memorized the sequence of numbers.

What was she doing? She folded and tucked the napkin back into her pocket. It wasn’t as if she planned to drive straight to Ashley’s house or call her. She wouldn’t know what to say.

Not far from where she was sitting, a man and his wife set up a picnic lunch for their three children on a bright red towel. A big umbrella covered their heads. The boy looked to be in junior high, while the younger two girls played close by in the sand.

A tightknit family.

What would it have been like to grow up with siblings to laugh and play with, and yes, even quarrel? As an only child, she never experienced that type of interaction. Never. Not like this family. And not like Ashley’s. An ache gnawed at Kayla’s gut.

But no family was perfect.

Definitely not hers. She’d thought long and hard about her parents’ negative qualities—their controlling and success-oriented ways—to last a lifetime, but they had good qualities, too. Her father took her to the beach on weekends when her mother worked. And her mom wanted to help her succeed as a doctor, as skewed as that turned out to be.

Kayla pulled her feet from the sand, stood, and wandered toward the surf, gradually coming to the water’s edge. She slipped her hand into her dress pocket and once again rubbed the soft texture of the napkin between her fingers.

Bryan had said Ashley was kind and nurturing, determined and loyal. The animals at the shelter loved and trusted her, as did his niece Madison, who requested to live with her for the time being. Ashley sounded too good to be true. She must have some annoying habits. Everyone did.

As beautiful as the ocean was, stopping at the beach wasn’t the diversion Kayla hoped for, quite the opposite. Instead of clearing her head, she was more confused than ever. Coming to Santa Cruz, the place where Ashley had been raised only clouded her judgment. No. A relationship with Ashley would never work.

Another wave pounded against the shore. This time the water rushed up and licked at her calves, the cool temperature sending her scampering back up the beach.

When she started reading her Bible again and had relinquished her life to God, she discovered how much He loved her. She thought she’d conquered her fear of not measuring up, but all the old feelings of failure came rushing back like the ocean against her skin. Kayla picked up her ballerina flats where she’d left them in the sand and climbed the steps up the bluff to the parking lot to go home to San Francisco where she belonged.

Her only regret was that she had given Bryan the photo.

Bryan’s truck was parked in her driveway.

Ashley had seen Bryan many times after work, not overly concerned whether or not she looked her best, but today was different. Because of Tori’s phone call.

All day she’d battled her envious thoughts and realized her deep-seated fear of losing those she loved could swallow her whole if she let it. What would her life be like without Bryan? Tanner? Or letting go of meeting the little girl in the photo?

Everything inside her wanted to keep driving. She couldn’t face Bryan when her self-esteem was at an all-time low.

Too late.

He got out of his truck and waved, a smile on his handsome face.

Ashley pulled her car in behind him, but then thought better of it and parked in the street in front of the beach house. She didn’t want to hem him in. The irony of that thought squeezed the air out of her lungs.

He came up to her driver’s side door and opened it. “Hey, babe!”

She grabbed her purse on the passenger seat and stepped out. “Hi.” Her voice wobbled. Stay strong, Ashley! She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of crumbling in his arms.

“Paul picked up the kids. It’s just you and me.”

And the elephant in the room. No, make that two elephants. Shelly and what’s her name.

He bent down and kissed her on the cheek when she turned her head.

“I’m tired. Been a busy day,” she said.

Bryan followed after her. “But we haven’t been alone in a long time.”

Ashley fiddled with the key in the lock, her hand shaking. Stupid, door. Why did it have to be so difficult today of all days? All she wanted to do was take a long, hot shower to scrub away all her scrambled thoughts and feelings.

“Here, let me help.” Bryan’s hand covered her own, his strong, gentle fingers weaving between hers and doing a number to her senses. She loved him. Loved him with her whole heart. Why does he have to torture me this way?

Instead of fighting him, she gave up her keys, wishing that forgiving him would be as easy.

If he’d open up and be honest—about Shelly, about the other woman, about his love for her—about whether or not he wanted to commit the rest of his life to her and finally propose, she might consider forgiving Bryan and accepting his proposal. But right now, she needed space to breathe.

Bryan stared at the key in his hand. He tucked it inside his pocket. “Listen, Ash, before we go inside, I need to tell you something important—”

Her heart pounded. “Here? Now? Please, Bryan, I need to go inside.”

He ran a hand through his dark hair and several pieces stood on end. “You’re right. What am I thinking? You’ve been on your feet all day.”

She wanted to fix the wayward strands, like she’d done many times before, but she held back. Why give him the wrong impression that she wanted another kiss? Needed it. “I have to take a shower. I smell like the clinic.”

“So that’s it.” Bryan put the key in the lock and laughed. “I’m getting used to dog smell with Tanner. Kind of like it myself,” he joked, his eyes lingering on her mouth.

She pushed her way into the house, set her purse on the small bench inside the door, then stepped out of her shoes. “Give me twenty minutes.”

“Take all the time you need. I’ll make myself comfortable on the couch. Watch a little TV.”

She went down the hall to her bedroom and stood by her closet. Her bed called to her, and she’d like nothing better than to crawl under the covers and drift off to sleep. But Bryan was waiting. Waiting to tell her something “important.” She didn’t know if she could handle important, especially if it had to do with a certain beautiful blonde—or the unknown redhead. She’d never been the jealous type and had trusted Bryan completely until finding out he’d been keeping secrets. Now there were more questions than before.

Mindlessly, she snagged a pair of jeans off the shelf and a teal blouse from the rack, pulled open her top dresser drawer, and grabbed a pair of socks and clean underwear then headed straight to the shower.

It took a few minutes for the water to heat. Chills covered her bare body as she waited, the spray touching her feet. Once it was warm, she swiveled the knob, heating the water to her favorite temperature.

Water soaked her hair and skin. She lathered up then rinsed, washing away the grime from the day. A moan escaped, and she closed her eyes, in no hurry to face the discussion that was sure to follow. If she talked with Bryan now, he’d see straight to her heart—her jealous, fearful heart.

A knock on the door startled her.

“Ashley, I’m going to pick up a few things for dinner at the grocery store. Saw a recipe on the Food Channel, and I want to try it out.”

Since when had he started cooking gourmet? Maybe he wanted to let her down slowly. Give her a meal before breaking up. She sucked on the inside of her cheek. Being near him for five minutes before escaping to the shower was difficult enough.

“Aren’t you going to ask me what I’m going to make?” His voice cut into her thoughts.

Normally she’d ask questions, but nothing came to mind—nothing worth bringing up now. “Surprise me,” she said.

“Great. See you in thirty.”

Besides the fact Bryan wasn’t the best cook, tonight would expose more than one revelation. And Ashley didn’t know if she was ready to hear the truth.

She had a half hour to get herself together.

What she wanted to do was hop in her car and drive away.

37

The incoming fog fit Bryan’s apprehensive mood.

The parking lot was only a short distance to Hidden Beach Park, the designated meeting spot, which led to the sand and surf below.

Bryan folded his arms tight across his chest and rested his backside against the park bench as he waited. No kids played on the playground, creating the quiet around him, except for the distant sound of the waves and the occasional chirp of birds in the surrounding trees.

His brother-in-law approached, adjusted the cap on his head, and pushed up his sleeves. Was Paul preparing for a fight?

Bryan straightened and pushed back his shoulders, giving his best don’t-mess-with-me look. “Why’d you want to meet?”

Paul held up a hand. “Relax. I just want to talk.”

He quirked a brow. “About?”

“Susan … Madison … the boys.” Paul’s forehead creased.

It’s about time he thought of someone other than himself.

“I’m listening, but I don’t have long. Ashley’s expecting me.” Bryan patted his jacket pocket and felt for the ring box.

Paul let out a breath. “Hang on to her, man. Don’t be foolish like me.”

“Why’d you do it? Why’d you let something get in the way of your marriage?”

Paul shrugged a shoulder. “Stupidity, selfishness …”

“You were the one who pointed me to God, to Scripture.” Bryan furrowed his brows and continued through tight lips, “I looked up to you. You were my role model for what a Christian man should be. Most of all, you were my brother. My friend.” He balled his fists. “I should punch you and get it over with.”

Paul tilted his head, exposing his left cheek. “Go ahead. I deserve it.”

“It would feel good but wouldn’t solve a thing.” Bryan turned on his heel, maneuvered around the bench, and sat. He leaned forward with his elbows resting on his knees, his hands clutched together.

Paul joined him on the bench, keeping distance between them. “I made a huge mistake. I hurt Susan and the kids. I know I don’t deserve it, but I’m hoping to get my family back.”

Bryan gritted his teeth. “You’re right. You don’t deserve it.”

“I’m working hard to earn their forgiveness and regain their trust. Did Susan tell you we’re in counseling?” His tone lightened.

Bryan jammed his hands into his pockets, his breath slowing a bit. He averted his eyes. “She did.”

Paul scooted a bit closer. “I feel a deep responsibility for what I’ve put my family through, you and Ashley included, caring for Madi all this time. Today, she told me how immature she’s been and how much trouble she’s caused. It’s my fault. I’m glad she could rely on you to pick up the pieces. You’ve been a good uncle, and I couldn’t have asked for a better brother-in-law. Do you think you’ll ever be able to forgive me?”

Bryan glanced at Paul, his facial expression hopeful, eager. Could Bryan forgive him for what he did to his sister? The boys? Madi?

It took a big man to admit his faults and insecurities, something Bryan had yet to do with Ashley. How could he expect her to forgive him for his past when he had a hard time forgiving himself?

Remorse was written all over Paul’s face. But was it too soon? The pain of Paul’s betrayal was still raw. “Before I answer, I have one question.”

“Anything.”

“Do you promise to remain faithful and never leave Susan again?” Bryan clenched his fists. “Because if there is a next time—”

“I promise.” Paul nodded. “Does that mean I’m forgiven?”

Could he do it? Bryan stood from the bench. “Yes, but don’t let it happen again.”

Ashley spotted Bryan’s truck pulling into her driveway. Tanner sat in the seat beside him. She should have left when she had the chance.

Bryan sent her a few messages saying he had stopped at Hidden Beach Park to talk with Paul. The ingredients he’d planned to buy would have to wait for another day. Instead, he ordered take-out from Panda Inn, her favorite local Chinese restaurant.

Ashley opened the door before he knocked.

A grin spread across his face. “Ready to go?”

He hadn’t mentioned taking her anywhere. “Where are we going?”

“West Cliff Drive, away from the fog. I brought a blanket for a picnic dinner, and I remembered Tanner’s leash so we can walk once we’re through.”

He’d thought of everything, except her broken heart.

She’d go anyway—to have one more meal with Bryan, spend time with Tanner, and take in the breathtaking views of the ocean. If only it were a couple of months ago, back to when life was simpler and she didn’t suspect him of cheating or keeping secrets. She might have even hoped for a proposal.

“I’ll grab a jacket and meet you in the truck. I’ll just be a minute.” Ashley’s voice hitched, and she blinked back the moisture that formed in her eyes. Would tonight be their last date? She pulled out her windbreaker from the coat closet, shrugged into it, and grabbed her purse on her way out the door.

Bryan settled Tanner in the backseat and waited for her to join him in the front. The truck’s engine roared to life as she clicked her seatbelt.

On the way to Santa Cruz, Bryan told her about his meeting with Paul and how Madi was finally home for good. Ashley leaned against the armrest, her head resting against the cool window. “So you forgave him, just like that?”

“It wasn’t easy, but it was the right thing to do. I don’t want bitterness to grow inside of me. I figured if Susan could go to counseling and work on her marriage, then who was I to stand in their way?”

Ashley looked out the side window at the cars driving alongside them on the freeway. Her mind drifted over the past three years since she’d dated Bryan. He was a good guy, a Christian man, someone who loved God and his family. Maybe she had him all wrong and there was a logical explanation. The thought once again set her on edge. Logical or not, she couldn’t help feeling hurt. If there was any chance between them, he had a lot of explaining to do.

Fifteen minutes later, they found a parking spot by the Abbott Lighthouse and spread the blanket on the grass overlooking Steamer Lane, a popular surf spot in Santa Cruz. Tanner lay beside them, chewing a bone, his leash tucked securely under Bryan’s thigh.

Bryan opened the bag from Panda Inn and handed her a pair of chopsticks. “Do you want to start with the kung pao chicken or the mu shu pork? I also bought vegetarian spring rolls and sticky rice.”

He remembered what we ordered the last time. She pushed the tender thought aside. “Chicken, please.”

They ate while listening to the sound of the surf and watching people walk by on the windy path bordering the cliff.

Toward the end of their meal, Bryan broke the silence. “Susan told me she spilled the beans about me dating Shelly back in college.”

How could he be so nonchalant? A bite of spring roll lodged in Ashley’s throat. She coughed, took a gulp from her water bottle, then swallowed hard.

Bryan’s brows puckered. “You all right?”

That was a loaded question. She caught her breath. “No, I’m not all right. Why would you keep it a secret? Shelly and Peter have been going to our church for what, a year, and you’re just now getting around to telling me?”

“I know, and I’m sorry—”

“I’ve shared with you how she makes me feel, and now I know why. The two of you share a past. And to think I thought it was me.”

Bryan stuck his chopsticks into the almost empty container and reached for her hand.

She pulled back.

“Please, hear me out. I haven’t told you until now because I didn’t understand what went wrong until a few days ago.”

“What are you talking about?”

“After Sunday night’s dinner with your family, I went to Shelly and Peter’s house. I had to talk with her and find out why she left me the night I proposed.”

Ashley sucked in a breath. “You proposed to Shelly?”

“Yes, but it was a long time ago.” Bryan lowered his head. “We’d dated all through college, and I thought she was the one, but I was wrong. We were wrong.” He looked into her eyes now, pleading for her to believe him.

She swallowed hard.

“After getting Peter’s approval, she showed me a photo book,” Bryan continued. “Inside was a picture of an ultrasound. Ashley, she left me because she was pregnant.”

Ashley cupped a hand over her mouth, her kung pao chicken threatening to come back up.

“When Shelly and I dated, she was a Christian and I wasn’t. Honestly, I wouldn’t have found God if we hadn’t broken up. A couple months after she left me, she met Peter, and he was the one who helped her through the miscarriage.”

Miscarriage?

“Babe,” Bryan took her hand. “I haven’t proposed yet because I was scared you’d leave me, too, and I couldn’t bear it. But now that I know the truth of what happened, I’m not afraid anymore. After a lot of prayer, I’ve forgiven Shelly for not telling me until now as well as myself for my part in Shelly’s pregnancy, but I need your forgiveness, too.”

Could she forgive him? Forgive Shelly?

“Ashley, you’re the love of my life.” Bryan reached into his pocket and produced a small box. “You’re my heart and my soul.”

Oh no, God help me. Not yet. She still needed more answers.

He opened it, and a solitaire diamond ring glistened in the sun. “Ashley, will you marry me?”

Hot tears slid down her cheeks, and she shook her head. “I can’t.”

“Can’t marry me or can’t forgive me?” Bryan’s brows furrowed, her answer apparently not what he was hoping for.

“Not until you tell me who you were eating lunch with today.”

His eyes grew wide.

“Tori and Drew saw you at Palapas—”

He rested a hand on her arm. “Ashley, please, it’s not what you think.”

“Then tell me. Who is she?” Her voice shook.

Bryan snapped the box closed and put it in his pocket. “Hold Tanner’s leash. I’ll be right back.”

Ashley’s eyes narrowed. “Where are you going?”

“The truck.”

A couple minutes later he came back, an envelope in his hand. “I had lunch today with Kayla. I gave her your address and phone number. Told her she had until Sunday to contact you.”

“Who … who’s Kayla?” Ashley opened the envelope. The photo—the one of her and the younger girl sitting in the wagon. “Kayla.” She said her name out loud. “You found my biological sister?” Her voice rose.

“Not me. Lauren.”

“I don’t understand.”

Bryan dug his hands into his pockets. “Lauren called and asked if I would meet with Kayla, hoping that after we talked she’d want to connect with you. So far that hasn’t been the case. I’m not sure why, but I get the feeling Kayla’s had it rough. She’s probably overwhelmed and a little scared, too.”

Her heartbeat picked up its pace. “She knows about me?”

Bryan nodded.

Ashley’s eyes misted. “And she doesn’t want to meet me?”

“She just needs more time. She’ll come around.”

Could she trust God to bring Kayla back in her life? As afraid as she was of the unknown, God would always be by her side. “I’m sorry I never told you about the photo—”

“Shh.” He closed the distance between them and touched her mouth with a finger. “I told her how sweet and kind you are. How you love animals and have helped me with my niece.” He cupped her face with gentle fingers and brushed his lips across her cheek. “I also told her that you are the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met and how I can’t wait to make you my wife.” He wiggled his brows and smiled.

Ashley’s heart softened, and she grinned back. “You didn’t—”

“Are you going to kiss me or leave me hanging?”

Tanner tugged on the leash.

Bryan laughed. “Even the dog is getting antsy.”

Ashley wrapped her arms around Bryan’s middle, his strong back beneath her fingers. “If I kiss you, will you show me the ring again?”

“Only if your answer is yes.”

“I love you, Bryan. Yes, I’ll marry you.” Her eyes glistened as she brought her lips to meet his, soft at first, then she deepened the kiss. His mouth lingered on hers a while longer before he slipped the ring on her finger.

38

Ashley fixed the last of the photos into a scrapbook, thankful the project was ready for her grandmother’s perusal. She’d be proud of the work Ashley had done. Three complete albums now sat on the coffee table, perfect timing for her sisters’ visit. Both Lauren and Tori had asked the reason for the get-together, but Ashley had been vague, saying she’d tell them when they arrived.

Her diamond ring once again caught her eye. She’d been staring at it all morning. A bubble of laughter danced its way up her throat. She was engaged to marry Bryan. He was her best friend, her confidant, and soon to be her lover. The thought heated her neck and cheeks.

Ashley glanced at the clock. Her sisters would arrive any minute. She quickly moved into the kitchen, poured water and grounds into the coffeemaker, and flipped the switch. Next, she arranged oatmeal cookies on a plate and set them in the middle of the dining room table.

A knock sounded on the front door. One of her sisters had arrived. Ashley took a deep breath before answering. “You’re both here!”

“Yeah, we pulled up at the same time,” Lauren said.

“Hope you don’t mind I brought Max.” Tori looked apologetic. “I know you said sisters only, but I was pushing my luck leaving the girls with Drew. None of us is getting much sleep lately. Poor Max has his days and nights mixed up.”

“Not at all.” Ashley gestured. “C’mon in.”

“Before you ask, no, I’m not pregnant.” Lauren carried the baby’s diaper bag into the house. “Maybe Sean and I aren’t meant to be parents—”

“You sure you’re not stressed?” Tori set the infant carrier with sleeping Max on the floor beside the sofa and removed her sweater. “I’ve read stories where women get pregnant when they finally give up and relax.”

Ashley cringed at Tori’s insensitivity.

“I’m afraid there’s something wrong with me.” Lauren set the diaper bag beside Max’s car seat. She dropped on the sofa. “But I don’t want to talk about it right now.”

“Give it a little more time,” Tori encouraged, sitting beside her.

The discussion between the siblings reminded Ashley of when they were younger; Tori acting like a protective mother and Lauren always over-analyzing.

“So, what’s the occasion?” Lauren dodged further talk of babies and pregnancy. “Why’d you invite us over?”

Ashley flashed her diamond ring.

“Are you? Is that?” Tori rushed to her side. “What happened? I thought you were mad at Bryan.”

“Mad?” Lauren asked. “Why would Ashley be upset with Bryan? He’s one of the most caring guys I know. Just the other day he—”

“Went out with another woman, that’s what.” Tori set her hands on her hips. “I saw him with my own eyes.”

“Lauren, why don’t you tell Tori who Bryan had lunch with?” Ashley quirked a brow. “You should know since you’re the one who set him up.” She couldn’t resist goading her sister and watching her squirm. Served her right for keeping Kayla a secret for all this time.

Tori’s mouth hung open. “Why would you set up Bryan? That’s wrong and just plain rude.”

“Tell her.” Ashley folded her arms across her chest. “I want to hear the explanation myself.”

Lauren’s hand shot to her mouth. “So Bryan told you?”

Ashley pressed her lips together and nodded. “How long have you known about Kayla? Since before I showed you the photo?”

“I wanted to tell you, I did, but I didn’t want to hurt your feelings just in case—”

“Which photo?” Tori’s eyes widened. “The one you showed me at the flower shop? Please, someone tell me what’s going on.”

Lauren snagged Ashley’s hand and brought it close. “Bryan has exquisite taste. Your ring is gorgeous.”

“It is, isn’t it?” Ashley smiled then lowered her brows. “But you can stop buttering me up. I’m not letting you off the hook.”

Since Bryan had told her that Lauren found her biological sister, Ashley daydreamed about how she found her and what she was like. Now the time had come to learn all the details. Apprehension and excitement wove together like one of June’s quilts. “I want to hear the whole story. Why don’t we sit at the dining room table? I made coffee and cookies. We have all afternoon.”

Sunday had come and gone.

Kayla’s sewing machine hummed at a frantic pace. The A-line dress she was making for Chloe needed to be complete by Friday, the night of David’s dinner party with his boss, the perfect excuse for not calling Ashley.

“Whoa. Slow down, friend,” Chloe called from across the room. “I know you’re good, but even you might make a mistake going that fast.”

Kayla let up on the pedal. “Sorry. You’re right.”

“Why don’t you call her already? You haven’t been yourself since you came home the other night.”

Kayla released the presser foot, clipped the thread with a scissors, and turned the dress around to start on the next seam. “What do I say? Hi, Ashley. I’m your long-lost sister. I know you have two others and don’t need me in your life, but I have no one and need a sibling. Want to be my sister?”

“Sounds good to me.”

“You’re joking, right?” Kayla rolled her eyes, turned her attention back to the dress, and stepped hard on the pedal. The hum of the sewing machine drowned out further conversation and Kayla’s thoughts. As long as she kept her mind on making Chloe’s dress, she didn’t have to think about how much she longed to have Ashley in her life.

Chloe handed her a tall glass of ice water, stopping her from sewing. Kayla accepted it readily and took a long drink.

“Have you talked with Jeremy?”

“Jeremy knows I only have room for one new relationship right now. He’s not pressuring me.”

Chloe grinned and danced around the room. “He likes you; he really likes you.”

Kayla grinned. She loved the way Chloe could lighten the mood. The girl knew how to have fun.

“C’mon. Let’s put on some music and release some of this pent-up tension.” Chloe danced her way to her computer and pulled up her music account. “I’ve got to take care of my little dress designer. What song would you like? Oh, wait. I’ve got it.”

Kayla set her glass down on the bookshelf next to the sewing machine and lurched to her feet. She rotated her shoulders and leaned her head from side to side, stretching her knotted neck and back muscles. Chloe was right. She did have pent-up tension.

After half an hour jumping up and down and moving to the beat, beads of perspiration dripped down Kayla’s forehead and lower back. The water glass now sat empty. Exercise was exactly what she needed to clear her head, but it was time to get back to work.

Kayla swept up her hair in a ponytail using the holder she kept on her wrist and sat in front of the sewing machine. She adjusted Chloe’s dress under the machine and lowered the presser foot.

“Oh no, you don’t.” Chloe grabbed her arm and tugged. “You have plenty of time to finish my dress. I want you to take the rest of the day off.”

Kayla resisted, holding tight to the seat of the chair. “But I have no other plans. This is what I want to do.”

“Read a book, go shopping, watch a movie. Take time for yourself.”

“You don’t understand. I’m tired of focusing on myself. I’ve been alone my whole life.” Kayla’s voice grew loud.

Chloe’s eyes softened, and she released her hold. “Then call your sister. She wants to meet you. You don’t have to be by yourself anymore.”

“Think I’ll take that break after all. I’m going for a walk.” Kayla purposefully left her cell phone on the bookshelf next to the empty drinking glass. She maneuvered around Chloe to the front door and slammed it on the way out.

Her roommate had good intentions, but she didn’t understand. Possible rejection was too great a cost.

The minute Ashley and her sisters settled at the table with coffee cups in hand, Max started crying.

“Hold that thought.” Tori rushed to the living room and returned with a squirming baby in her arms and a small blanket draped over her shoulder. “Let me get him situated.”

Lauren’s face visibly fell. Her forehead creased and her mouth drooped. It must hurt to see Tori with her third child when Lauren hadn’t been able to conceive one of her own. Her sister downed a cookie in a few bites.

As much pain as Lauren was going through, Ashley struggled with her own thoughts. Why hadn’t Kayla connected with her? Maybe Lauren could shed some light on the mystery.

Max’s little body relaxed under the blanket. “Okay, I’m ready,” Tori said.

All eyes were on Lauren, except Max’s, of course. “Well?” Ashley asked. “How did you find out about Kayla?”

Lauren hesitated, looking first at Tori then at Ashley. “As you know, I’ve been in charge of renting the beach house for a while now. The last time Grandma was in town, I did a thorough cleaning of the attic, placing stuff in boxes and encouraging her to throw other things away. I never touched the photos. Grandma put them in the trunks herself a while back when she was brave enough to climb the ladder. She told me about the box she kept for you. Said there were photos of when you were small going through cancer. I didn’t want to look at them, to remember you that way, so I never did. Not until you showed them to me.”

Tori set her mug down. “Then how did you know about the photo of Ashley and Kayla, is it?”

“I’m getting to that.” Lauren took another cookie and set it on her plate. “A while ago, Grandma told me how she had reconnected with one of her friends, the one who made the quilts.”

“June?” Ashley asked. “Grandma mentioned her to me.”

“Yes. Grandma and June were close a long time ago when they were young and newly married.”

“I’ve come across pictures. They’re in the first scrapbook,” Ashley said.

“A short time before you moved in, a box was delivered to the beach house,” Lauren continued. “Since Grandma had already gone to Arizona, she said I could open it. I discovered June’s obituary, a letter from her lawyer, and a stack of her journals.”

“But what does June have to do with the photo of me and Kayla?”

“Because she’s the one who took you and Kayla to get the photo. Ashley, June is your biological grandmother.”

Ashley’s mouth went slack. “My grandmother?” Her eyes suddenly misted and her throat burned. She lurched off her chair, retrieved the blue photo album from the coffee table in the family room, and thumbed through the pages, trying to locate a photo of June. Her breath released when she found one. Although June had dark hair when she was younger, there was no denying the family resemblance. Her grandmother had the same nose and chin.

Lauren opened her purse and retrieved a piece of paper. “I found this letter within the pages of one of June’s journals. It’s for you.”

Ashley clutched the letter with nervous fingers, and read it silently to herself.

My dear Ashley,

If you are reading this letter, then you have discovered my journals and the history behind your difficult start in life. My darling girl, I wish I could tell you that your mother loved you unconditionally, but in truth she was drawn more to pills and the bottle than relationships, including your father when he was alive. This is a harsh reality that no child should endure.

Oh, how I miss you.

As a young child, you had a tender heart for others, especially animals. You would squeal and smile to your heart’s content whenever there was a dog around—but those were hard times. Your illness took its toll on everyone, but especially on you. But God in His infinite grace and mercy not only healed you from the cancer that nearly took your leg and your life at the age of three, but also gave you adoptive parents and two sisters to watch over you—a wonderful family to call your own.

In truth, I’m afraid that all that you’ve lost has affected many areas of your life, including your ability to trust and feel loved.

Even though we’ve been separated all these years, nothing can separate you from God’s love: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39)

I pray God brings someone special into your life. Wait for God’s best. I love you and your sister, Kayla, and I pray that one day we will all be together again, if not on earth then in heaven.

With Love,

Grandma June

Ashley swiped at the tears sliding down her cheeks. “I’ve always understood that my birthparents were unfit to raise us, but why not June?”

Lauren reached over and gently grasped Ashley’s hand. “In one of the journals, June mentioned that her second husband, the one she married when she was a widow after you and Kayla were born, didn’t want to raise another family. Said the two of you were better off with a couple that could keep up with young children. He was a harsh man, prone to yelling, and June didn’t want you growing up that way. She knew Kayla would be adopted quickly, being a toddler and all, but she was afraid for you.”

Tori held Max over her shoulder and patted his back. “We all were.”

“That’s when she called Grandma and told her about a sick child who needed a home.”

Ashley narrowed her brows. “But I asked Grandma about the photo of Kayla and me. She said she didn’t remember.”

Lauren shook her head. “As far as I know, I’m the only one who knows about it. Grandma didn’t know about the photo or the fact June was your biological grandmother. It’s all in the journals.”

A lump formed in the back of Ashley’s throat.

“Then how did the photo get into Ashley’s box?” Tori asked.

“Remember when June came to visit Grandma to give her the quilts?” Lauren asked. “Grandma had mentioned Ashley was going to create the scrapbooks, and June slipped it in your box. Another thing June mentioned in one of the journals was that it was her deepest desire for you and Kayla to be reunited again. It became my mission to find her to keep my mind away from trying to get pregnant. But then—”

“I moved into the beach house,” Ashley said. “I remember you weren’t happy about that.”

“When you found me climbing down from the attic, I was looking for the photo. I didn’t want you to find it before I knew whether or not Kayla wanted a relationship.”

“I wondered.” Ashley squirmed in her seat. “But how did you find Kayla without it?”

“I hired someone. He tracked down Kayla, and I made the call. I’ve been trying to convince her to meet you ever since. Frankly, I don’t know what else to do.”

“Nothing. There’s nothing anyone else can do.” Ashley’s heart stuttered. “It’s obvious she doesn’t want a relationship. And as much as it hurts, I’ve got to let her go.”

39

“You sure you want to do this?”

Kayla warmed at the tenderness in Jeremy’s tone. No, she wasn’t sure she wanted to talk with her parents, but having her boyfriend, the man who stuck by her despite her almost ruining his career and reputation, gave her the courage she needed. “Yes, but you don’t have to come inside if you don’t want. You can wait for me here.”

“You think I’m going to let you go in alone while I wait in the car? No way. I’m here for you no matter what.”

Somehow, she sensed Jeremy wouldn’t disappoint. He’d been nothing but kind and supportive since she told him about Ashley.

“Thank you, Jeremy. It means the world to me.” Kayla stole a breath and glanced at her parents’ large home. They could have afforded to take in a horde of kids.

No matter the situation, she had to find out if her parents chose to adopt only her and whether they knew about Ashley. In a way, she wouldn’t be surprised. They had successful careers, no time to take care of a little girl with cancer. They barely had time for her.

“Ready?” Jeremy urged her forward.

She climbed out of the car and adjusted her skirt. Why did she feel the need to dress up for the occasion? Talking to her parents wasn’t an interview, and yet she was groomed for success and taught to always look her best. And looking the part was needed in order to be on an equal playing field with her parents.

“They’re expecting you, right?” Jeremy came up beside her and matched her stride up the walk.

“Actually, no, they’re not. I’m taking my chances that they’ll be home—”

“Which is a long shot with your parents’ schedules.” He finished her sentence.

“I know, but I haven’t spoken to them since I quit school, and this isn’t something I wanted to discuss over the phone.”

“Understandable. But Kayla, you do know that this isn’t their fault. From what Lauren told you, the social worker made the choice to separate you and Ashley.”

Kayla clutched her purse to her side. “No, I don’t know that for sure. That’s what I’m here to find out.”

Jeremy grabbed her hand, entwining his fingers with hers. She looked into his eyes and saw strength, peace, and hope—the exact reassurance that God had been giving her on a daily basis since she started reading her Bible. 2 Corinthians 5:17 said she was a new creation, and no amount of negative talk from her parents was going to change that.

She sucked in one more breath and rang the bell. It didn’t feel right to walk in as she had done when living under her parents’ roof.

After waiting a few minutes, the door opened. “Kayla, what brings you by? Dad and I are about to leave. We have a dinner engagement.” Her mother wore a ruby red chiffon dress with sheer beaded sleeves and a hemline just below the knees. The dress was gorgeous and something Kayla could picture designing one day. The diamond bracelet at her mother’s wrist sparkled.

“A dinner engagement?” Her resolve lowered a notch. The only time her parents didn’t have somewhere to go was when they were working at the hospital. “This won’t take long. Where’s Dad?”

“Upstairs getting ready.”

Kayla shrugged a shoulder. “Can we come in?”

“Where are my manners?” Mom stepped aside and gestured them inside. “We need to leave soon. Are you sure you don’t want to come back another time?” Her mother’s tone was non-threatening, soft, and uncharacteristic. Was she acting for Jeremy’s sake?

“Like I said, this won’t take long.”

“Are you going to introduce me to your … friend?”

Surely, her mother knew who Jeremy was. Hadn’t she seen him working with Dr. Collins at the hospital? Kayla pulled Jeremy closer to her side, suddenly unable to speak.

“I’m Jeremy Fischer.” He filled in the awkwardness and held out his hand.

“Wait a minute.” Mother’s eyes narrowed as she took hold and shook it. “Haven’t I seen you at the hospital? I almost didn’t recognize you without the white coat.” The lilt in her mother’s voice sounded warm, caring. Where was her real mother hiding?

Kayla filled in the missing pieces. “Jeremy is the one who has the intern position with Dr. Collins.” It should give her mother some satisfaction to know that she was dating a med student, an up-and-coming doctor, but would she put two and two together and remember he was the one she tried to sabotage?

“That’s right. Congratulations. You must be very proud of yourself.” Mom smiled, ignoring the obvious. “Why don’t the two of you make yourselves comfortable in the family room, and I’ll get your dad.” Her mother was really putting on a show.

“C’mon, Jeremy.”

Kayla led him to the family room and sat in the middle of the overstuffed sofa, and Jeremy took a seat beside her on the corner cushion, still clutching her hand. They waited for her parents in silence.

After a few minutes, her parents walked in. Her father’s dark suit matched the fanciness of her mother’s dress. They made a striking pair.

“Kayla, it’s good to see you.” Dad came toward her and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead. “Mom mentioned you’d brought Jeremy. Nice to meet you.” He held out his hand. Jeremy responded in kind and the men shook hands.

Had aliens abducted her parents and replaced them with strangers? Or had Kayla been harsh in her judgment of them? Maybe they’d accepted the fact that she would never make a good doctor and were relieved of the financial responsibility.

Her parents sat in the wingback chairs opposite the couch.

“I know you need to go to your dinner engagement.” Kayla bit her lip. “But there’s something I need to ask you.”

Jeremy gave her hand a gentle squeeze.

“Do I need my checkbook?” Her father joked and sent her mother an I-told-you-this-would-happen look.

Kayla shook her head. “No, nothing like that. This has to do with my adoption.”

“Go on.” Her mother shifted in her seat, as did her tone. More characteristic of what Kayla had grown up with.

Kayla let out a quick breath. “I recently discovered I have an older biological sister. Did you know about Ashley? And if you did, why didn’t you adopt her, too?” Kayla’s voice wobbled. She rubbed the tips of her shoes together.

Mom’s mouth drooped. “Kayla, it’s more complicated than that—”

“So you knew about her? My whole life you knew I had a sibling, and you didn’t tell me?” Kayla’s voice rose.

“We wanted a closed adoption,” Dad said. “To live our own lives—”

“The social worker mentioned you had a sister, but that she was sick and most likely wouldn’t live,” Mom cut in. “It made sense to us at the time to raise you as an only child.” She glanced down at her hands clutched tightly in her lap. “Dad and I suffered many years trying to conceive a baby, and you were finally ours. We wouldn’t have been able to handle burying a child.”

Could she ever forgive her parents for omitting the truth? How could they let her grow up living a lie? Hadn’t they seen how much she longed for a sister or brother? Kayla’s throat clogged. She swallowed before finding her voice. “Growing up, it didn’t matter that I was healthy, I could never meet your expectations—”

“That’s where you’re wrong.” Mom rose from her chair and sat in the corner of the sofa next to Kayla, her words pinched. “Since you told Dad and me that you quit medical school, we’ve been trying to come to terms with your decision. It’s been difficult, and, frankly, I still think you’re making a huge mistake. But as hard as it is to accept, maybe you weren’t meant to become a doctor.”

What is this? Reverse psychology? Kayla turned her head away. She couldn’t listen to the negative talk anymore.

“Mom’s right,” Dad interrupted her thoughts. “What she’s trying to say is that we shouldn’t have chosen your career for you.”

Had Kayla heard correctly? Were her parents apologizing for pushing her into medicine? The change in her parents was an about-face from the ones who left the restaurant. Did her parents mean what they said or was this a ploy to get her back under their control?

“So you’re fine with me becoming a fashion designer?” Kayla sought her dad’s approval.

He sucked in a breath. “Well, now I didn’t say that …”

Her mother shot him a look.

Dad let the rest of the sentence go unsaid.

Now that was more like the parents she knew. Kayla’s stomach knotted.

“Now about Ashley,” Mom brought the conversation full circle. “If we could go back in time, we would. We’d adopt your sister and raise the two of you together.”

Too late now.

Kayla winced. “I’m glad you didn’t. Ashley has a big family—a caring close-knit family with two older sisters.”

Mom’s eyes widened, an odd smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. “So the two of you have met?”

Kayla shook her head and lowered her eyes. “No.”

With their hands still joined, Jeremy rubbed his thumb over the top of hers. “Not yet—”

“I haven’t quite decided.” Kayla’s voice sounded small.

Mom patted her knee. “Well, I think it’s a good idea.”

Kayla lurched to her feet. “I need some air.”

Dad stood and placed a hand on Kayla’s shoulder, stopping her from rushing out the door. “It’s not too late to start a relationship with Ashley. And when you do, please bring her here. We’d like to meet her.”

What had happened? In the span of ten minutes, her parents had welcomed her and Jeremy, admitted they shouldn’t have chosen her career, and echoed the sentiments of Jeremy and Chloe, her two closest and dearest friends.

Jeremy put his hand on the lower part of her back. “Ready to go?”

“Yes.” Kayla couldn’t take the false pretense any longer. Or had her parents actually changed? Time would tell.

“It’s so nice to finally meet you face-to-face,” Mom said. “Dr. Collins speaks highly of you.”

Jeremy straightened to his full height. “Thank you, Dr. Witherspoon.”

“Please, call me Christine.”

Kayla relaxed her shoulders as they made their way out the door. Maybe her parents were serious and had changed their minds about her future. Maybe her parents finally realized that she was her own person, unlike them in many ways. And maybe her parents were right about meeting Ashley.

Maybe.

40

“I’m nervous.” Ashley paced back and forth in the front yard of her parents’ home. How fitting to celebrate her engagement with her whole family—including her younger sister, Kayla. She and Jeremy should arrive any minute before the family sat down to their weekly Sunday night dinner.

Bryan came up behind her, wrapped his arms around her middle, and placed a kiss on the nape of her neck. “You have nothing to worry about. Kayla is going to love you. I know I do.”

Ashley laid her head back on Bryan’s shoulder. “You’re biased. Then again, it’s taken you three years to commit.” She tilted her head up and pecked him on the cheek.

He tightened his grip around her middle. “Some of us are just slow.”

“I’ll say.” Ashley poked him in the rib with her elbow.

Bryan laughed and let her go. “Hey, better late than never, right?”

“Most definitely.” She gave him a cheesy grin and grabbed his hand. “You’re my forever.”

He closed the distance between them and whispered in her ear. “And you’re going to have to stop looking at me that way.”

Ashley pressed into his side. “October will be here before you know it.”

“Not soon enough.” Bryan cupped her shoulder and kissed her temple.

“Hey, you two lovebirds,” Tori called through the opened screened door. “We’re about to start cutting the vegetables for the taco salad. You sure she’s coming?”

“Yes, she said she’d be here.” Ashley worked hard at keeping her voice casual. She glanced at her watch. Kayla should have arrived half an hour ago. They’d figured that would be enough time before meeting the rest of the family.

“Do you think she’s lost?” Tori asked.

“Remember she’s been here once before, so I doubt she’s lost,” Ashley said. “Maybe the traffic is bad.” Or she changed her mind. A quick phone call was one thing. Meeting in person was altogether different.

Bryan gestured for Ashley to sit beside him on the front porch. “Don’t worry. She’s coming.”

“For some reason, she’s as nervous as you are. We’ll wait until you hear something. I’ll tell Mom to hold off cutting the lettuce and tomatoes.” Tori disappeared back into the house.

Mom. Ever since she got a hold of June’s journals, she’d been pouring over them trying to figure out how they never knew about her biological sister. If her mom had known about Kayla, she would have fought to keep them together. Didn’t matter now. They were grown women, each with families of their own.

Ashley’s stomach cramped. Where was Kayla? The wooden porch steps beneath her grew hard. She wouldn’t be able to sit there for long. Maybe she should go inside her parents’ house and help her mom with the taco fixings. At least it would give her something to do instead of counting down the minutes until Kayla arrived.

Ashley wasn’t waiting in the front yard as she had promised. Was this a sign of things to come? True, Kayla was forty-five minutes late, but she couldn’t have gotten to the house any faster. The traffic was a nightmare. An accident over Highway 17 ground traffic to a halt. She would’ve called, but her cell phone was dead, and she’d forgotten her charger.

“This is the house.” Kayla directed Jeremy to pull against the curb. She remembered the last time she was there. Her hands were as clammy now as they were then, but this time Ashley was expecting her.

Jeremy cut the engine.

Kayla pulled down the shade visor and flipped open the mirror. Her long hair hadn’t cooperated today, so she’d pulled it back with a headband. Instead of the usual skirt or dress pants, she opted for jeans and a casual blouse and cardigan. From what Ashley had said, the Stevenses were a typical laid-back Santa Cruz family. No need to dress up. Besides, Kayla hadn’t wanted to appear like she had more in the way of material things, although her Audi gave her away. She applied a new layer of lipstick. “How do I look?”

“Beautiful, like always.”

“You’re just saying that.” Kayla fingered her hair.

“No, I’m not. Now stop fussing.” Jeremy’s tone was lighthearted. He grabbed her hand. “She’s going to love you.”

“Promise?” Her pitch rose.

“I promise. Have some faith.”

Despite the photo, it was a miracle the two sisters found each other, which made Kayla’s decision to meet Ashley clear. “You’re right. No more fear.”

Jeremy let go of her hand. “Ready or not, look who’s standing on the other side of your door.”

Kayla sucked in a breath and turned toward the window. Ashley bounced up and down on her toes, her hands covering her mouth. Kayla smiled at Jeremy. “I definitely made the right choice.”

“She’s here!” Ashley raced out of her parents’ house to Kayla’s car barely able to contain her excitement. Should she open Kayla’s car door and pull her out? Wait for her to make the first move?

Bryan came up behind her and placed his hands on her shoulders. “Slow down. You’re going to scare her away.” He laughed.

Kayla’s auburn hair was the same shade as her own, although long and straight compared to Ashley’s wavy curls. Kayla climbed out of her Audi and shut the passenger door. Anyone witnessing the two of them would guess they were sisters by their similar skin tones and small frames.

“You’re here.” Ashley stated the obvious.

Kayla smiled and nodded. “Just arrived.”

Jeremy joined Kayla on the sidewalk. She made introductions.

“Jeremy, why don’t you and I go inside and leave these two alone.” Bryan cocked his head toward the house.

“Good idea.” Jeremy took his hands out of his pockets and followed after Bryan.

Once the men were inside, Ashley stepped toward Kayla. “I’m so glad you came.”

“Me, too.” Kayla smiled.

Ashley let out a breath. “Once I found the picture, I had dreams, flashbacks really. I remember the last time I saw you.”

Kayla bit her lower lip. Her eyelids fluttered. “You remember me?”

Ashley nodded. “A social worker brought you to see me in the hospital when I had cancer. She got angry because you pulled the visiting dog’s tail. You cried and reached out to me, but there was nothing I could do. I was hooked to all kinds of machines.”

“What could you have done?” Kayla asked. “You were small, like me.”

“The social worker picked you up and marched away. I never saw you again—until today. Now I know why I’m so drawn to saving animals. Because deep down it reminded me of all that I lost.”

Kayla stepped toward her. “I’m sorry for taking so long to come back to you.”

“It’s not your fault.” Ashley furrowed her brows. “But I never want anyone to take you away from me again.”

“Don’t worry.” Kayla grinned. “You’ve captured me now.”

Ashley reached into her back pocket and took out the picture of when they were young children. “If it weren’t for Grandma June, we wouldn’t have been captured together at all.” Would it be appropriate to hug Kayla now? Should I take the first step?

She didn’t have to. Kayla reached out and pulled her into a tight embrace. As much as Ashley enjoyed saving animals, reuniting with her sister was the best feeling of all.

EPILOGUE

Four months later

Tanner barked.

“I think he feels left out.” Bryan situated the dog in front of him and wrapped a protective arm around Ashley’s waist. “How about a couple of photos with him, too.”

They grinned at the wedding photographer.

Grandma sidled up next to Ashley. “You took your chances getting married on the beach, but the weather cooperated. It was a beautiful wedding.”

Ashley smiled. “Thank you, Grandma. I’m so glad you could make it. I know how difficult travelling is for you.”

“I wouldn’t have missed it. Besides, since I wasn’t able to come July 4th, I had to come see all your hard work on the scrapbooks.” Grandma held onto her arm. A wistful look crossed her face. “Now that you’ll be moving in with Bryan, the beach house will be empty again—”

“Until the next vacation renters come along. Lauren will see to that.”

The photographer looked up from her camera. “Now I’d like a picture of Ashley with her sisters.”

Grandma squeezed Ashley’s hand then held on to her father’s arm and shuffled off to the canvas tent covering the refreshments.

Tori and Lauren, wearing light blue bridesmaid’s dresses, flanked Ashley on either side.

“Wait, I have one more bridesmaid.” Ashley motioned to Kayla, who stood off to the side talking with Jeremy and drinking a cup of lemonade.

Kayla handed Jeremy her drink and joined them.

“Hold on. Youngest to oldest.” Tori moved next to Lauren so Ashley could stand next to Kayla.

Ashley sent Tori an appreciative smile. Six months ago, she couldn’t have imagined she’d be getting married to the love of her life with three sisters by her side. The women posed for several pictures.

“I wanted to tell you again how beautiful you look.” Kayla grinned.

“Thank you. You did an amazing job on my dress.” The satin and lace sheath dress fit Ashley’s body perfectly. “Bryan looks good, too, don’t you think?” Her groom wore tan slacks with a matching vest, along with a white shirt and light blue tie.

“Very handsome.” Kayla twirled the bouquet of soft pastels and delicate hues in her hand, gifted from Tori’s flower shop. “And you never know, a wedding may be in my future.”

“So soon?” Ashley couldn’t help the protective tone.

“Don’t worry. It’ll be a couple of years from now. Jeremy wants to complete medical school first, but I think I found my guy—”

“The groom’s family next, please,” the photographer called out.

“We’ll finish this conversation later.” Ashley winked.

Bryan and his parents joined Ashley, along with Susan, Madison, and Bryan’s three nephews. Where was Paul? Ashley nudged Bryan. Did her new husband want his brother-in-law in the picture?

According to Bryan, Susan and Paul had been in counseling over the last few months. They had a long way to go, but slowly things were getting better between them. Bryan motioned to Paul. “Come join us.”

A grin lit Paul’s face. He walked over and stood behind Susan, placing a possessive hand on her shoulder. Once Bryan’s nephews settled down, the photographer snapped a few more photos.

“Thank you. Now I need pictures of the bride and groom.”

The bride and groom.

Ashley loved the sound of that. She locked eyes with Bryan—grateful he found the courage to capture her heart.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

My heartfelt thanks and appreciation go out to my loving family—my husband of thirty years, Douglas, and my four children, Carson, Brittany, Noah, and Grace. It’s all because of your love, support, and encouragement that I am able to write. Thank you to my parents, Roy and Billie Hoffman, for always being there for me and cheering me on.

I am grateful for my critique partners on this project, Sarah Sundin, Ginny Yttrup, and Julie Carobini for all your grammar changes, comments, and smiley faces. This book is better because of you.

I’m blessed to have such wonderful friends, cheerleaders, and prayer warriors—Marcia, Barbara, Suzy, Michelle, Kelly, Kira Lee, and Silvia. Thank you for encouraging me on this crazy writing journey!

To the American Christian Fiction Writers, the Christian Authors Network, as well as the many mentors of the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference, who have provided me with writing wisdom, knowledge, and support. Thank you.

A big thank you to Fay Lamb for editing this book and for answering all my questions. What a blessing to work with you!

Thank you to my agent, Rachel Kent, for believing in me and for always showing me the next steps to take. You always have my best interest at heart.

And most importantly, thank you to my Heavenly Father who shows me every day how much He loves me. Your grace knows no bounds.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sherry Kyle is a graduate of Biola University with a degree in Speech Pathology and a minor in Bible. Her writing credits include Delivered with Love, The Heart Stone, Watercolor Dreams, Road to Harmony, as well as six books for middle grade readers.

Sherry maintains an active membership in a variety of professional organizations, including the American Christian Fiction Writers, Christian Authors Network, and Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She is also a graduate of the Institute of Children’s Literature.

Sherry has four children, three biological and one by adoption. When she isn’t writing or reading, she enjoys decorating her beach home, going to jazz concerts with her husband, Douglas, watching movies with her family, and taking long walks along the beach. Sherry and her family live by the coast in Central California. You can connect with her on her website at www.sherrykyle.com

PRAISE FOR THE HEART STONE

“The Heart Stone, appropriately titled and powerfully written, is indeed a ‘heart-grabber’ from first page to last. Author Sherry Kyle pens her story with emotion and insight, bringing her characters to life and enabling readers to care about what happens to them. More than just a good story, The Heart Stone challenges us to consider the hard places in our own heart—and to turn them over to the One who stands waiting to heal and restore.”

—Kathi Macias, author of The Moses Quilt

and Last Chance for Justice

“Love—and Sherry Kyle’s new book The Heart Stone—is for hearts of all ages. It’s a heartwarming story that testifies to the enduring power of faith, hope, and love.”

—Kathy Harris, author of The Road to Mercy

“The Heart Stone is a gem of a book, with a lot of heart and a hint of mystery. Parents and grandparents will love how Sherry Kyle weaves two unlikely love stories together in a realistic yet redemptive way. Oh, and little Jacob often threatens to steal the show. Great pacing, with warm, unforgettable characters.”

—Linda S. Clare, The Fence My Father Built

1

FRESNO, CALIFORNIA

Jessi, it’s Andrew … Andrew Lawson.”

At the sound of his voice, Jessica MacAllister’s knees went limp and her palms grew moist. She sat down on the wooden stool near the kitchen counter and leaned her head on her hand, her elbow resting against the cold tile. Why was he calling? She hadn’t heard from him since he signed the papers relinquishing his rights to Jacob six years before.

“Jessi, you there?”

She fought the urge to hang up the phone. “I’m here.”

“I want to see him.”

Her heart beat a strange rhythm. She had prayed this day would never come. “Andrew, I—I—I don’t know,” she stuttered. As a speech pathologist, she prided herself on her communi- cation skills, but this man could trip her up regardless of her training.

“We can meet at a park. I’ll sit at a distance and watch.” The desperation in his voice was palpable.

Jessica’s jaw clenched and her stomach churned. How could she trust that he wouldn’t rush up to Jacob and tell him that he was his biological father? Or worse, what if he wasn’t sober? His behavior when he was drunk could be … No. She wouldn’t let a man who had no part in Jacob’s upbringing suddenly waltz into his life—especially someone who had shown her the ways of the world. But Andrew wasn’t entirely to blame. She’d given in.

“No. No, that won’t work.” Jessica ran her hand through her shoulder-length hair.

“How about a restaurant? I’ll eat at a separate table. I only want to see our son.”

Our son. Jacob was not their son. He was hers and hers only. Andrew wasn’t there for her when she was pregnant or gave birth. He’d never been there. Why the sudden interest now?

When Jessica woke this morning, she planned to spend the whole afternoon with Jacob—alone. What right did Andrew have to show up in her life after she’d assumed he was long gone? He’d abandoned her when she needed him most. The wound hurt deep and it would take a lot more than a casual demand.

A fire burned in her belly. “The answer is no—”

“Mommy, who you talking to?” Jacob padded into the kitchen, clad in his dinosaur pajamas. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes.

“Is that my boy?” Andrew’s voice rose.

Jessica stared at her innocent son. Her hand shook and a lump lodged in her throat. She couldn’t tell Jacob who was calling, and she couldn’t tell Andrew the small voice he heard was indeed his son’s.

“Come on, Jessi, work with me here—”

A firm resolve flowed through her veins. She wouldn’t allow Andrew to worm his way into her son’s life. Not now, not ever. “I’ve got to go.” She pressed the off button and hung up the receiver.

“Hungry, buddy?” On shaky legs, she swung around the counter. She hoped Jacob didn’t notice how rattled she felt. “How about some pancakes?”

“With chocolate chips?” He hopped on a stool and grinned, showing the gap that once held a baby tooth.

Several months ago, she’d made his favorite pancakes for his birthday. And now, after receiving the unexpected phone call from his birthfather, she’d give Jacob anything he wanted. “Sure.” She smiled back.

“Can we go see Uncle George today?” Jacob pleaded.

“Thought you wanted to spend the day with me.” A twinge of jealousy twisted her insides.

She chided herself, and then grabbed a mixing bowl from the cabinet. Uncle George had been through a difficult patch lately. If they could spend an hour or two visiting, it would make a world of difference to the older man.

“I’ve never seen someone without a leg.” Jacob’s eyes grew big and round.

Jessica cringed—neither had she. Why hadn’t she taken the time to visit her uncle before now? The answer made her pulse race. Fear. The smell of hospitals and rehabilitation centers turned her stomach. Glancing down at her hand, the heart- shaped stone glistened and caught the light filtering through the window. Uncle George had given her the diamond ring when he found out she was pregnant with Jacob to fend off any unwanted advances—or unwanted questions. He had said, “It’s hard enough being a single parent.”

“Can we, Mom?” Jacob’s voice interrupted her thoughts.

The phone rang. She recognized the number from moments ago. Andrew.

The phone rang twice more.

Jessica continued to gather the utensils and ingredients for the pancakes. Maybe if she ignored him, he’d go away.

“Can I answer it?” Jacob reached for the phone.

“NO!” She stopped him, and then clicked the off button of the answering machine before it could pick up.

“Who keeps calling?” Melissa, her roommate of a couple years, strode into the room. Her short blonde hair stuck out here and there, and her pink jersey T-shirt hung almost to her knees over navy sweat pants.

Jessica shot her a “don’t ask” look, and then gestured to her little boy. “Jacob and I are going to Santa Cruz today to see Uncle George.”

“Yeah!” Jacob hopped off the stool and thrust his arms in the air. He ran around the table like a speeding train pumping his small fists.

“Whoa, buddy.” Jessica caught him, wrapping her arms around his chest. “Jacob, listen. I need to talk with Melissa. Why don’t you watch cartoons and I’ll call you when the pan- cakes are ready.” Jessica rubbed the top of his head, his soft, brown hair slipping between her fingers.

“Okay.” He ran toward the couch. On his way, he reached down and grabbed his favorite dump truck from the floor, and then huddled in the corner cushion of the sofa.

Jessica flipped on the television, then motioned for her roommate to join her in her bedroom.

“What’s up?” Melissa planted her hands on her hips. “You’re acting strange.”

“It’s Jacob’s birthfather. I spoke with him this morning.” Jessica paced the room. She grabbed her purple terrycloth robe and slipped it over her shoulders. “I hung up on him. And now he’s calling again.”

“What does he want?” Melissa sat on the edge of Jessica’s unmade bed and covered her legs with the striped comforter.

“To see Jacob.” Jessica leaned against the wall, slid down, and landed with a thud on the hardwood floor.

“Has he ever been part of Jacob’s life?”

“No, and I won’t let him start now. When he found out I was pregnant, he made it clear he didn’t want anything to do with the baby or me. He even blamed me for sleeping around, saying the baby wasn’t his.” Jessica hugged her legs with both arms. “I wish I’d never gone to Mexico on that college trip. But I did.” She sighed. “My roommates and I wanted to celebrate. I knew better.”

“Celebrate what?”

“Graduation from Fresno State.” Jessica bit her lower lip. “We were seniors looking for a good time. That’s where I met Andrew.” She stared at the floor, wishing the memories away.

“Don’t be too hard on yourself. You have a beautiful little boy.” Melissa stood and meandered over to where Jessica sat. Holding out both hands, she pulled her up. “From now on, I’ll answer the phone. I think Jacob’s waiting for those pancakes.” Her roommate was never one to mope and she wouldn’t allow Jessica to either.

She cinched the belt of her robe. “Please don’t tell Jacob who called.”

“Never in a million years.” Melissa led her back to the kitchen. “So, when do you leave for Santa Cruz?”

“Right after breakfast.”

“It’s spring break. Why don’t you take the whole week? I’ll ward off any unwanted callers.”

With Jacob having time off from school, Jessica had can- celled all her clients. Her speech pathology business, Speak Easy, would take a hit financially but she’d promised Jacob to spend time with him. Santa Cruz sounded great. Still. …

“But tomorrow is Easter and we planned a big dinner. I can’t leave you alone.” Jessica poured a cup of coffee and handed it to Melissa. “I bought more vanilla creamer. It’s in the side door of the refrigerator.”

“Don’t worry about me.” Melissa’s eyes danced. “A guy from work hinted he had no place to go.”

“Oh, I get it.” Jessica grinned. “Don’t let us get in your way.”

“It’s not like that, and you know it.” Melissa returned the tease. “I was going to ask you today if he could join us, but since you’re leaving town, I didn’t want you to worry.” She grabbed the creamer and poured a hefty portion into her coffee.

“If it makes you feel any better, I’m glad you’ll have company.”

“Where will you stay in Santa Cruz?”

“My uncle has a trailer. I’m sure we can crash there.” Jessica cracked two eggs into a bowl and beat them before adding the flour, baking powder, sugar, and milk to the bowl. “He’s going to be surprised to see us. I’ve been hesitating—didn’t want to scare Jacob. He’s never seen someone without a leg.”

Melissa took a swig of her coffee. “Jacob didn’t look scared to me. Are you sure you’re not the one who’s nervous?” She winked.

Jessica placed a small bowl of butter in the microwave. “Okay, you got me there. I admit I’m scared. I can’t imagine my uncle, someone I’ve leaned on for strength my whole life, needing assistance. I’m glad the nurses at Pacific Coast Manor are available around the clock.” She stirred the batter gently, leaving small clumps of dry ingredients. “I almost forgot the chocolate chips.”

“In the pancake batter? It’s not anyone’s birthday.” Melissa opened the cabinet above the dishwasher and handed the bag to Jessica. “You really are worried about that phone call.”

Jessica nodded and let out a breath.

Melissa sidled up to her and spoke in hushed tones. “Remember, it’s not the end of the world. So, he wants to see his son. Are you sure that would be a bad thing?”

Jessica scrunched up her nose and looked directly at her roommate. “I’m positive.” She placed a frying pan on the stove and turned the heat to medium low before she added a handful of chocolate chips to the mix.

Melissa dropped a pat of butter into the pan. “Okay, if you’re sure, then I’m with you on this.”

“Thank you.”

“But promise me you’ll take this week to really think it through. Jacob needs a man in his life. And you haven’t brought one around since he was born.” Melissa sprinkled a few flecks of water into the pan. The drops sizzled.

“You forget. We’re going to visit my uncle. He’s the best role model I could ask for. No other man is needed.” Jessica poured circles of batter onto the hot griddle.

“If you say so.”

“Jacob, can you please turn off the television,” Jessica called. “It’s time for pancakes.”

“Buckle up.” Jessica glanced over her shoulder at her six- year-old. He sat in his booster seat between several suitcases, clutching his stuffed teddy bear.

“How long ’til we get there?” Jacob clicked the seat belt. “About three hours, give or take.”
She couldn’t get out of her apartment fast enough. Considering she hadn’t heard from Andrew in years, he’d suddenly become persistent. He must have done plenty of searching to locate her unlisted phone number. She’d been careful to keep her whereabouts a secret.

Melissa stood by the curb waving as Jessica turned the key. “Jacob, wave goodbye.”

“Why can’t Melissa come?” Jacob leaned toward the door and moved his hand back and forth.

“Because she has a special guest coming for Easter dinner tomorrow.” Jessica grinned.

No one should be alone on a holiday, including Uncle George. It had been at least two years since the last time they’d been together, and she hadn’t been with him much before that either, although they’d always stayed in touch. His ministry to the people in the Philippines had spanned decades. She knew he’d hoped to live out his days there, but his high fever and toe infection brought him back home to the States. No amount of antibiotics could cure the gangrene that set in or the hearing loss in his right ear. His left leg was amputated below the knee, and he was fitted for a hearing aid. And now, according to the nurses, he was becoming more and more withdrawn as the days wore on. Jessica could hear it in his voice every time she called. The last thing she wanted to do was add to his troubles by telling him about her problems. But still, he’d always been there for her in the past.

After weaving through town to load her car with gas, she turned onto CA-180W toward CA-99 and drove her Honda Civic with the air conditioner on full blast. She flipped on the radio and sang along.

“Mommy.”
Jessica looked into her rearview mirror. “Yes?”
“I need to go potty.” He bit his lower lip.
Jessica let out a sigh and stared back at the road. “Didn’t I tell you to go before we left?”

“I forgot.”

“I’ll look for a rest stop. You may need to wait until we get to Madera.”

“How long is that?”

“Twenty miles.” Jessica glanced at him once more. Her son’s brows were furrowed, his lips pinched, and his arms were tightly wrapped around his stuffed animal. The life of a six-year-old was hard. She stifled a grin. If worse came to worst, she’d pull over to the side of the road.

“When we gonna get there?” Jacob whined.

This was going to be a long trip.

The Heart Stone is available in print or Kindle.

Other novels by Sherry Kyle

Delivered with Love

The Heart Stone

Watercolor Dreams

Road to Harmony

Table of Contents

Title Page

Copyright Page

Dedication

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

CHAPTER 3

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 5

CHAPTER 6

CHAPTER 7

CHAPTER 8

CHAPTER 9

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 11

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 13

CHAPTER 14

CHAPTER 15

CHAPTER 16

CHAPTER 17

CHAPTER 18

CHAPTER 19

CHAPTER 20

CHAPTER 21

CHAPTER 22

CHAPTER 23

CHAPTER 24

CHAPTER 25

CHAPTER 26

CHAPTER 27

CHAPTER 28

CHAPTER 29

CHAPTER 30

CHAPTER 31

CHAPTER 32

CHAPTER 33

CHAPTER 34

CHAPTER 35

CHAPTER 36

CHAPTER 37

CHAPTER 38

CHAPTER 39

CHAPTER 40

EPILOGUE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Preview: PRAISE FOR THE HEART STONE

CHAPTER 1: FRESNO, CALIFORNIA