Wedding Rings and Baby Things
Wedding Rings and Baby Things
Teresa Southwick
I'M YOUR GROOMDEBUT AUTHORBABY ON THE WAYEveryone in town was talking about the pregnant and unmarried teacher. Kelly's conditionnot to mention swelling bellywere a source of good gossip and great concern. For her baby's sake, Kelly knew escaping scandal meant finding an instant dad.Mike Cameron was not the father of Kelly's child, though everyone thought he was. So he did the honorable thing and proposed marriage. Now she could have the family she'd always dreamed of. If only their marriage vows of love, honor and cherish were not just for convenience's sake.Five irresistible heroes say "I DO" for a lifetime of love. I'M YOUR GROOM.
Table of Contents
Cover Page (#u90cc5159-651b-5bd2-a211-9a9f86fc58ed)
Excerpt (#u5220e552-3fef-56bd-9f34-cd2fbf040e6d)
Dear Reader (#ub2316f1a-113e-5943-9b3c-f97f4fed0631)
Title Page (#u3918131b-8dc9-5276-b73d-e58e521e7780)
Dedication (#u790f23d2-797f-5aad-ac42-4609c99e238b)
About the Author (#u4ccb6ab7-a8a5-554a-8da6-c1ad34b83769)
Chapter One (#u2ddd35b0-e25e-52d9-a94d-be5870695f6a)
Chapter Two (#u412267be-3f9e-53a8-83e1-c47184f67cb1)
Chapter Three (#u8a3052fe-043c-5030-ab60-bc6673d82463)
Chapter Four (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Five (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Six (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Seven (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Eight (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Nine (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Ten (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Eleven (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Twelve (#litres_trial_promo)
Preview (#litres_trial_promo)
Copyright (#litres_trial_promo)
Kelly, theres no such thing as true love
She turned away so that he wouldnt see her hurt. I think it exists. I dont want to settle for less. Now, if youll excuse me, Ive got a lot to do. Good night, Mike. She held the door open.
The sight of him walking away, then the sound of the front door closing, were just about the loneliest things Kelly could imagine. Mike Cameron had just asked her to marry him, and he was serious. Not only that, he was angry that shed refused his proposal.
She was pregnant She was unemployed. She was moving. She was probably crazy. What woman in her right mind would say no to a handsome hunk like Mike? She reminded herself that she was doing this to protect him.
But if she was doing the right thing, why did it feel so wrong and awful?
Dear Reader,
Happy Valentines Dayl Silhouette Romances Valentine to you is our special lineup this month, starting with Daddy by Decision by bestselling, award-winning author Lindsay Longford. When rugged cowboy Buck Riley sees his estranged ex with a child who looks just like him, he believes the little boy is his son. True or not, that belief in his heartand his love for mother and childis all he needs to be a FABULOUS FATHER.
And were celebrating love and marriage with IM YOUR GROOM, a five-book promotion about five irresistible heroes who say I do for a lifetime of love. In Carolyn Zanes Its Raining Grooms, a preachers daughter prays for a husband and suddenly finds herself engaged to her gorgeous childhood nemesis. To Wed Again? by DeAnna Talcott tells the story of a divorced couple who are blessed with a second chance at marriage when they become instant parents. Next, in Judith Janeways An Accidental Marriage, the maid of honor and the best man are forced to act like the eloped newly weds when the brides parents arrive!
Plus, two authors sure to become favorites make their Romance debuts this month. In Husband Next Door by Anne Ha, a very confirmed bachelor is reformed into marriage material, and in Wedding Rings and Baby Things by Teresa Southwick, an anyminute mom-to-be says I do to a marriage of convenience that leads to a lifetime of love.
I hope you enjoy all six of these wonderful books.
Warm wishes,
Melissa Senate,
Senior Editor
Silhouette Books
Please address questions and book requests to: Silhouette Reader Service
U.S.: 3010 Walden Ave., P.O. Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
Canadian: P.O. Box 609, Fort Erie, Ont. L2A 5X3
Wedding Rings and Baby Things
Teresa Southwick
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
To Jim, my big brother and very own legal eagle. Thanks for giving me the words to make Mike a here. For always being there and understanding, you have my everlasting gratitude.
TERESA SOUTHWICK
is a native Californian with ties to each coast, since she was conceived in the East and born in the West. Living with her husband of twenty-five years and two handsome sons, she is surrounded by heroes. Reading has been her passion since she was a girl. She couldnt be more delighted that her dream of writing full-time has come true. Her favorite things include: holding a baby, the fragrance of jasmine, walks on the beach, the patter of rain on the roof, and above allhappy endings.
Teresa also writes historical romance novels under the same name.
Chapter One (#ulink_3fb924ec-53c6-5e23-ae61-bda30cd07236)
Shed picked a bad time to swear off men.
Not that it was a permanent situation, Kelly Walker amended. Besides, her condition wasnt exactly conducive to getting involved with men, and that was the way she wanted to keep it
On the other hand, her condition was probably the reason she had been summoned to the administration office in the high school where she taught. She stared at the wavy, light-and-dark wood grain in the door marked Principal. As much as she tried to tell herself differently, it wasnt likely that Mr. Bloomhurst had summoned her here to discuss her interpretation of Hamlet. He probably wanted to talk about the fact that she was six months pregnant, not marriedand not getting married.
Stevenson High School was located in Newhall, the small California town where shed grown up. No one knew better than she how people talked, how quickly gossip circulated. She had expected when this news got out it would spread like soft butter on a hot muffin.
Since she hadnt begun to really show until the last week or so, she had been able to keep her condition quiet. Only two people were supposed to know that she was going to have a baby. Susan Wishart, who taught in the classroom next to Kellys, and Mike Cameron, head of the math department, head football coach and her very best friend in the world. She had made them promise not to say anything until she could break the news to Mr. Bloomhurst herself. As many times as shed rehearsed everything in her mind, she still wasnt prepared for this chat with her boss.
She had figured on telling him at the end of the school year when the next term assignments were given out. It was now the beginning of May. In the Arizona school where shed taught before, teachers didnt find out until the last week before summer, vacation what they would be teaching in the fall. She was just finishing up her second year at Stevenson and was still getting used to how things were done here.
She had thought shed been able to camouflage her swelling body with loose clothes, but she had been getting some long, curious looks. First the eyebrows went up when someones eyes dropped to her midsection. Then the gaze lifted to see if her face had gotten rounder. Then the examination dropped below her belly to her legs to determine if she had put on weight everywhere. After all of this, which took about a second and a half, the person pretended she hadnt noticed a thing. So far everyone who was perceptive enough to give her the ritual once-over hadnt said anything.
Everyone, that is, except Elizabeth McCutcheon. Earlier today, she had asked Kelly point-blank if she was going to have a baby. Kelly had said yes. Mrs. McCutcheon hadnt let it drop there. She said she hadnt heard that Kelly had gotten married. Kelly told her she hadnt. Even in this small town, the majority of people wouldnt have pushed the issue, but Mrs. McCutcheon happened to be the president of the districts Parent Advisory Committee.
Hence Kellys summons to Mr. Bloomhurst after school.
She took a deep breath and knocked.
Come in, a voice called out.
She opened the door and walked inside.
Cliff Bloomhurst glanced up from the paperwork on his desk. Hi, Kelly.
Mr. Bloomhurst.
He smiled, looking at her over the half glasses he needed only for reading and now had balanced on the tip of his nose. The sleeves of his white shirt were rolled up to the elbow, and his red-and-blue-striped tie was loosened just enough to release the button at his neck. His thinning brown hair was peppered with gray and there was genuine warmth in his light blue eyes. She liked him a lot. He was a nice man.
Come on in. And shut the door, please. His voice was a sort of down-home drawl that normally put her completely at ease. But not today.
Kelly did as he asked, then perched on the edge of one of the green plastic chairs in front of his desk. Nervously she rested her elbows on the metal armrests and laced her fingers together.
I know what this is about, she said. Lets cut to the chase. Im going to have a baby.
So I heard.
I planned to tell you soon. The baby is due at the end of July or the beginning of August. I will be here on the first day of school in September.
I wish I didnt have to ask, butare you planning to marry the babys father?
No.
Even if Doug Hammond had proposed instead of telling her not to expect any support, she wouldnt tie herself to a man who was so underhanded and untrust-worthy. She was sorry she hadnt seen sooner what a jerk Doug was. After that conversation, she hadnt expected to hear from him again. But in the last couple weeks, he had left messages on her answering machine. She hadnt returned them and hoped he would get the hint that she wanted him out of her life forever. She couldnt stand the sight of the man, but she would never be sorry about the baby she now carried.
Mr. Bloomhurst looked genuinely sympathetic. Then my hands are tied, Kelly. Liz McCutcheon went to the school board after she spoke to you today. They called me with a decision. You wont be back in September.
Kellys heart sank. I dont understand.
Youre a fine teacher. No one knows that or appreciates the job you do more than me. But the school board wont permit a pregnant, unmarried teacher in the classroom. Theyre concerned about the example it sets for the students.
But this is the nineties, Mr. Bloomhurst.
He nodded grimly. I know. But this is Newhall, California, Small Town, U.S.A. Its a nice place to live. But that can be a double-edged sword.
I wont be pregnant in September.
Are you planning to keep the child?
Of course! Kelly was shocked that he would even ask. It would never occur to her to give away her child.
You wont be married, either, and youll still have a child out of wedlock. I did my best to change their minds, but they were adamant.
Kelly was numb. She knew that was a good thing. She didnt want to go hysterical in front of this man. I suppose theres nothing I can do?
He shook his head. If you had tenure, you could probably fight the ruling.
She stood up and gripped the back of the chair so tightly her knuckles turned white. Do you want me. to finish out the last four weeks?
Id appreciate it
But Im still pregnant. What about Mrs. McCutcheon?
Ill handle Liz. He looked down for a moment, then back up at her. I know this is hypocritical, but Id like to keep the news quiet and have you finish up. with your classes until the end of the year. It would be disruptive to the students to bring in a substitute now.
She nodded. I wouldnt do anything to hurt the kids. Some of them need these grades for college.
I appreciate that, Kelly. He folded his hands and looked at her a little uncomfortably. May I ask you a personal question? You dont have to answer if you dont want to.
I have nothing to hide.
Theres a rumor He cleared his throat. Is Mike the babys father?
No! Mike Cameron? The idea shocked her. Then she almost laughed out loud. Shed known Mike since she was a kid. Once shed had a crush on him, but shed gotten over that years ago. Were good friends, nothing more. I rent his guest house Aha, that was probably why someone, probably Mrs. Busybody McCutcheon, had jumped to some wild conclusions.
Im sorry. I had to ask. It was a stupid question. If he was the father we wouldnt be having this discussion. Mr. Bloomhurst took off his glasses. He stood up and held out his hand. If theres anything I can ever do, just let me know.
I will, Kelly said, putting her fingers in his palm. She knew he truly meant what he said, but she couldnt help being angry and upset As nice as he was, he was still a man. As much as she needed one right now, a. he was already married, and b. she had sworn off menmaybe forever.
Kelly drove into Mikes driveway, past his large Spanish-style home, then braked in front of the smaller guest house. She leaned to the left and pulled the lever to pop the trunk on her four-door car before getting out to remove the empty cardboard boxes. As she moved purposefully up the curved, brick walkway to her front porch, she tried to shake the fear she was feeling about finding a new job and a place to live.
After unlocking the heavy oak door, she clicked on the front porch light and tossed the boxes inside, then retrieved the rest from the car. When she was finished, she slung her purse on the parsons bench just beside the door of her two-bedroom apartment. With the flick of a switch on the wall, brass lamps illuminated the interior of her comfortable living room with the floral sofa and matching love seat. Oak tables sat on either end of the sofa with a coffee table in front. Her lowheeled shoes sank in the thick hunter green carpet. All the emotions she had been fending off all day gathered into a lump in her throat. How she was going to miss this place.
She recalled when Mike had insisted that her mother pick out the color of the rug, just before theyd moved in. Ill as she was, Margaret Walker had perked up visibly at the excitement of redecorating. Kelly would always be grateful for Mikes kindness to her mother.
Thats why she had to protect him now.
It was evening, after seven. She hadnt eaten, but she wasnt hungry. She had spent the time since leaving Mr. Bloomhurst making decisions about what to do. The first one was to move.
After kicking off her shoes, she took a box into the kitchen and started removing things that she hardly ever used from the topmost shelves of her cupboards.
The clatter she made nearly drowned out the doorbell, and she wasnt sure shed actually heard it. But a second later an insistent ringing told her loud and clear that pregnancy had not affected her ears.
In her bare feet she padded to the front door and opened it.
Where the hell have you been? Mike Cameron glared at her and barged through the doorway.
Hi, Mike. Im fine, thanks. How are you? Come on in, she said, closing the door. Turning her back on him, she headed through the dining room back to the kitchen. She squatted down and started putting dish towels and odds and ends into a box.
Mike was hot on her heels. She heard his athletic shoes squeak on the tile floor as he stopped short behind her. I was worried. When you didnt show up to tutor Jake, I was about to call the cops.
Kelly groaned and stood up. Im sorry, Mike. I completely forgot.
Whats wrong? he asked. His dark, almost black, eyes bored into her as if he could see every single secret she had.
What makes you think theres something wrong?
Because youre the most responsible, organized, punctual person I know.
Watch it. Youll turn my head with flattery like that.
Cut it out, Kelly. Whats going on? Where were you? Its not like you to forget about one of your students.
I had a bad day. Ill call Jake right now and see if hes available.
She started for the phone, which was right next to where Mike stood in the doorway. When she caught a glimpse of his face, she stopped. Every once in a while she was taken aback by his athletic good looks. His dark hair was cut short, and more often than not he wore a baseball cap that said Stevenson Football on it He was thirty-five years old, but still boyish looking in spite of the shadow of beard that darkened his jaw. She studied him critically and realized he appeared boyish only when he was smiling, which he was definitely not doing now. At the moment he glowered at her, and his eyes smoldered with anger.
That surprised her. She felt badly that she had missed her appointment, but she had a sneaking suspicion Jake Saterfield was relieved that she hadnt shown up. Mikes star running back put English composition in the same category that the average person put a root canal.
Mike seemed to fill the doorway of her kitchen. Dont bother calling him. He went to his girlfriends house to study.
Jessica is an honors student. If they actually get some work done, hell do fine on his test in Susans class tomorrow.
The hell with his test tomorrow.
I thought you were concerned about his grade and his eligibility to play in September.
I am. But right now Im more concerned about you. I asked you where you were. Hey, what are you doing with these boxes?
Im packing.
I can see that. Why are you packing? You shouldnt be doing that kind of stuff. Youre pregnant, for Gods sake. He crossed his arms over his chest and she couldnt help noticing how his red T-shirt pulled tight around his powerful bicep. He was in tiptop physical shape, and reminded Kelly just how ungainly she looked right now. His black shorts showed off his athletic build, right down to his narrow waist and muscular, well-formed thighs. Mike was enough to make a womans heart beat double-time. If that woman hadnt sworn off men, of course.
Kelly had always thought Mike was a hunk in stretch cotton, since the very first time shed seen him when her older brother Jim had brought him home after football practice. But there had never been anything of a romantic nature in her relationship with Mike. He had always treated her like a younger sister, and that had killed her crush pretty quickly. But that didnt mean she was deaf, dumb and blind. He was a good-looking man, too sexy for his own good, a fact proven by a string of broken female hearts over the years.
Since when has pregnancy been a debilitating disease? she asked snappishly.
Mikes eyebrows lifted at her tone, even though she hadnt meant to be sharp. Without a word, he walked over to her and gently held her upper arms, squeezing them reassuringly. As he scanned her face, concern replaced irritation.
Kelly, somethings happened. Tell me whats wrong.
She fixed her gaze on the tab collar of his shirt, dismayed that she felt very close to tears. That hadnt happened to her since getting the news. Why now, in front of Mike?
Ive been fired.
He frowned. Fired?
Yes, as in canned, sacked and let go. As of the end of the school year.
But youre one of the best teachers Cliff has. I dont understand.
Dont blame Mr. Bloomhurst. He didnt want to do it. The school board made the decision. Its because of the baby, she said, placing one hand protectively on her abdomen. Actually, thats not entirely true. Its because Im not married to the babys father.
Any woman who marries that jerk should have her head examined.
Dont start, Mike, or Ill be forced to bring up Bambi.
Her name was not Bambi. It was Jennifer.
Same thing, Kelly said. Suddenly she was exhausted. Im going to sit down. If you can be supportive and appropriately sympathetic, youre welcome to join me in the living room. If not, go away.
Come on, he said, taking her hand and leading her to the sofa in front of the red brick fireplace.
Mike sat down beside her. He had been relieved when he heard Kellys car come up the drive and saw the lights go on in the guest house. As far as he knew, she hadnt missed an appointment for anything since he and her brother, Jim, had kidnapped her for breakfast on her eighteenth birthday and she hadnt shown up to get her hair cut
Mike half turned so he could see Kellys face, just as she tucked a dark strand of hair behind her ear. Over the years, hed seen her with long and short styles, but he decided he liked this sophisticated, page boy look best. Her thick mahogany hair hit her just about chin length and drew his attention to her face. Purple smudges darkened her skin, just below her green eyes. She looked delicate and fragile. He hated that she was losing her job, because she was a fine teacher, and she had a lot to offer her students. Mostly he hated it because of what it was doing to her.
He knew Kelly, and he would bet there was more to the story. She still hadnt explained to him about the boxes.
Why are you packing? he asked.
Thats usually what you do before you move.
His gut tightened. Move? Why? Especially now. Just a damn minute. Bloomhurst might be able to can you, which is an issue Ill get to in a minute, but he cant run you out of town.
Who said anything about leaving town? Im taking an apartment on Walnut Street, she said, looking down. She folded her hands in her lap.
The movement pulled her oversized navy blue top across her gently curved abdomen. She had no business moving in her condition.
I want the whole story, Kelly. This isnt like you. Youre not exactly a spontaneous person.
There you go with the flattery again
Dont change the subject. Spit it out.
You wont like it, she said, glancing at him.
I already dont. How much worse can it get?
Theres a rumor that youre the babys father.
What? He sat forward. Thats the dumbest thing I ever heard. Were just friends.
She nodded. I said you wouldnt like it. Im pretty sure Liz McCutcheon mentioned it to Mr. Bloomhurst, but I cant say I wouldnt jump to the same conclusion myself. After all, I live a stones throw from your front door.
But were just friends.
You said that already. She sighed. I know it and you know it, but think how the arrangement must look to everyone else. Thats why I have to move.
No, you dont. Mike was surprised at how angry he was; he didnt want Kelly to move. Not because she was pregnant and it would be hard on her and the baby, and not because he hated knuckling under to gossipmongers, but because he liked having her across the driveway from him.
Kelly and her mother had moved in about six weeks before Mrs. Walker had died of cancer. Several years before the woman he thought of as a second mother had refused Mikes offer of a loan to help her son, Jim, establish his accounting business in Phoenix. She had -mortgaged her home instead. When she had become ill, she hadnt wanted Kelly and Jim to have to deal with a large payment, and had sold her property. Kelly had moved back from Arizona to take care of her mother, and Mike had insisted the two of them live in his empty guest house. They had agreed, but only if he would let them pay rent. After her mother had passed away, Kelly stayed. She didnt know the money went into a bank account for her. If he couldnt talk her out of moving, she might need it sooner than hed expected.
Dont you see, Mike? I wont let any of this hurt you. If I move, the rumors will go away.
If people already think Im the father, your moving wont change anything. Mike stood up and started pacing. Im going to see Cliff in the morning and set him straight. Im going to get your job back and raise so much hell an 8.0 earthquake will look like a walk in the park.
Dont, Mike. First of all, Mr. Bloomhurst was told to fire me, and it was his job to do it. Besides, he didnt start the rumor. Second, his hands are tied and he doesnt deserve to have you come down on him. Id prefer to go quietly.
Mike saw the slight tremble of her lip, just before she caught it between her teeth. Then he saw red.
I may not be able to do any good, but hes sure as hell going to know how I feel, he said.
And what good will that do? What if you get fired, too?
I made enough money playing pro ball. I dont need their job. And I sure as hell dont need an ulcer. Someone needs to tell that uptight McCutcheon that she cant mess with peoples lives.
She can and she did. But thats my problem. If you get fired, whats going to happen to your football team in the fall? Youve been teaching and training your senior players since they were freshmen. That was your first year here. They have a chance at the league title for the first time in years. You cant abandon them.
And youre not abandoning your students?
I dont have a choice. You do.
Youre a gifted teacher, Kelly. You cant let a narrow-minded group of people run you off without a fight. The kids will be the real losers.
I havent got tenure. I have no weapons to fight with. And youre right about the kids being the losers. The football program brings in a lot of revenue. Just think what would happen if you give the community a championship.
As much as he hated to admit it, she was right. He had some talented young men who he had taken as skinny fourteen-year-olds and molded into fine players. If he left now and had to be replaced, this years football program would be sacked big-time. It could scrap the season for these guys, and more important than that, it would affect their chances to be looked at by colleges for athletic scholarships.
Okay, youve got a point. I wont give McCutcheon a piece of my mind. He stopped pacing and pointed at her. Dont you dare tell me I cant spare any to give her.
Everyone knows jocks have more muscles than brains.
For the first time since shed let him in, Kelly laughed. The worry and frown lines were gone for a moment and it was like the sun had come out after a storm. Mike found that he wanted to chase away her clouds so she would always look sunny.
He wouldnt go to the school board, but he would find a way to help her somehow. He hated seeing her lose her job. He knew how much she wanted the baby. There must be a way she could have both. And he had to convince her that she didnt have to protect him. He didnt give a damn what people said.
She sighed. If only I had tenure, it wouldnt be so easy to get rid of me.
What did Cliff say to you?
That the school board could not allow a woman in the classroom who was pregnant and unmarried.
Mike continued to pace in front of the fireplace. So the M word is the key factor here. How did you find out that people think Im juniors father?
Mr. Bloomhurst told me, then came right out and asked. After that he said it was a stupid question.
Why?
He said if you were the babys father, he and I wouldnt be having the discussion at all. What do you suppose he meant by that?
Mike knew exactly what Cliff had meant He was surprised he hadnt thought of it himself. He came to a halt and looked at her. It was brilliant. He liked her; she liked him; they both liked kids. Why not?
Mike, you have a strange look on your face. What are you thinking about?
I have it, Kelly. The perfect solution to our problem.
Its not our problem. Its my problem and Id appreciate it if you would
Id appreciate it if you would be quiet and listen to my ingenious solution.
All right. What is the magic answer?
Marry me.
Chapter Two (#ulink_4181b6ae-ef00-54d9-88d0-21b91d560584)
Kellys eyes widened. Marry you?
Yes.
This is not a joking matter, Mike. Like I said before, if you cant be supportive, then go away.
Im not kidding.
Then youve been tackled one too many times without a helmet.
Theres nothing wrong with my head, Kelly. This is the right thing to do.
Right for whom? I dont need a man to rescue me.
You need to be married. And how youre going to do that without a man is beyond me. Mike started pacing again.
Ive sworn off men.
Have you sworn off friends, too, Kelly? He stopped and folded his arms over his chest. I want to help.
I appreciate that, Mike. But marriage? She looked at him helplessly. Friends change your flat tire. They loan you five dollars to tide you over until payday. They tell you when theres lipstick on your teeth. They dont marry you because youre going to have a baby.
Why not? The way he was looking at her, Kelly could swear he was dead serious.
She was truly touched by Mikes gesture, but it was out of the question. Before I try to beat some sense into you, I have a why of my own.
Shoot, he said, and braced himself.
Why would you want to get married again? Since your divorce youve been swearing that no woman would drag you down ball-and-chain lane again. So why would you do this?
Why should I marry thee, let me count the whys.
Youre not a poet, Mike. And youre not funny.
Im not trying to be funny. He put his hands on his hips. Ive got a proposition for you.
Is this one going to be more outrageous than the last one? She rolled her eyes, but couldnt help laughing.
Im going to ignore your sarcasm, Ms. Walker. How about this? If I can come up with ten good reasons why we should get married, youll say yes to my proposal.
Kelly had him now. There was no way he could come up with one really good reason, let alone ten. All right. Youre on. Is there a time limit?
He looked offended. This isnt Jeopardy.
That all depends on your point of view. She settled herself comfortably against the cushions of the couch and looked at him, waiting for him to start. Any time youre ready. Reason number one.
He leaned a shoulder against the oak mantel and thought for a minute. You dont hate football. My first wife couldnt stand it, except for the so-called celebrity perks.
Remember, these have to be good reasons.
Whats better than football? But if you dont think thats good enough, Ive got nine more. He started walking back and forth in front of her. Then he stopped and said, Okay, Ive got it. If Im married, women will leave me alone, and I wont have to beat them off with a stick. And we could use two-for-one coupons at restaurants.
Will you stop being ridiculous? Marriage is not a prerequisite for a dinner date. And dont forget I live across the driveway. I havent seen more than a babe or two beating a path to your door. That doesnt seem like a problem that requires this drastic a solution. She folded her arms and looked at him sternly. I need serious, personal reasons.
All right. What about repaying your family for taking me in as a kid when I needed discipline and guidance? What about the fact that the night before she died, I promised your mother Id look out for you? And the fact that I didnt keep that promise or you wouldnt be in this situation now?
His commitment to that vow touched her deeply. He was a wonderful guy and it was comforting to know she had someone like him in her corner. But she had to convince him that he wasnt to blame for everything that happened to her.
My.parents wanted you to live with us because they cared about kids and you were in trouble. They knew youd turn out all right, all you needed was a firm hand. They were absolutely right. She placed her palm on her stomach. My mother didnt expect you to be my keeper. Im not your responsibility, Mike.
Yeah? Then why do I still feel responsible? You called me the night after the funeral, right after your brother went back to Phoenix. I wasnt here.
And I called Doug because I needed someone to talk to. What I didnt know was that he didnt have talking in mind when he came over.
Id still like to break his neck for taking advantage of you the way he did. Mike looked angry, furious in fact She was surprised that he still felt that strongly after all these months.
What would he do if he knew Doug was trying to get in touch with her? Hed left messages at school and on the answering machine at home, but she hadnt returned any of his calls. For Mikes sake she decided it would be best not to tell him.
Guilt is not a good reason to marry, Mike. Lets go at this from a different angle. What would I get from marrying you? Besides the obvious reason, she said looking at her stomach.
He thought for a minute. Joint tax return. You could be the official team tutor.
Im that, anyway. Why would anything change?
Then what about a name for the baby? he asked.
Ill pick out names. I dont need help for that.
No. I mean a last name.
Kellys gaze met his, and she knew what he was thinking. Mikes mother had never married his father. In school he had gotten into fights because of what the kids had called him. Bastard. A dirty, filthy name. All the more hurtful because it was true. He was politely telling her that if she wasnt married when her baby was born, the child would be a bastard. She felt a tightness in her chest, a small pain around her heart
That was hitting below the belt, Mike.
You dont have a belt anymore, Kel.
She blinked and looked away. Youve gone from ridiculous to the Dark Ages. This is the nineties. A lot of women are choosing single parenthood.
I may be old, but I can still remember how it feels to be different from the other kids. That hasnt changed.
I dont want to play this game anymore. Kelly stood up and started toward the kitchen.
Mike took her arm to stop her, then turned her to him. Im not trying to hurt you, but there are some things you should think about. Ive given you a lot of outstanding reasons why marriage is a practical solution to your situation.
You havent given me one thats good for you. And dont tell me about running interference for Bambi and Fawn, or the guilt factor or football. Why in the world would you want to get married?
He sighed and dropped his hand from her arm. As you pointed out, Im old. Old men get tired of living alone.
Mr. Bachelor Mike Cameron tired of living alone? For just an instant she saw a trace of loneliness on his face. Shed never seen him this way and it warmed her heart that he would share that with her.
I didnt say you were old. I said you were living in the Dark Ages.
Means the same thing.
All right, youre ancient and you want someone to share the rocking chair with. Why me, Mike? Im going to have a baby. Doesnt that make you want to kick that rocker into high gear and run the other way?
No. You want to know why? He looked into her eyes and she nodded. His expression told her he was being completely serious now, and that got her attention in a big way.
Were friends, Kelly. The best. Thats more than most people ever have. You know what else? She shook her head. Its all. I ever expect to have. So that makes it pretty good.
But its not all I ever expect to have.
You said youve sworn off men.
Not forever. Someday I want to find real love, romantic love. She walked back into the kitchen to continue dismantling her personal possessions. She climbed onto a chair and reached for her cow picture with the words Feeding Time.
What are you doing on that chair? Mike took her elbow and helped her down. Dont ever do that again. Ill get that stuff for you.
He reached the things she couldntthe clock her mother had made, the brass plaque that said, On this spot in 1897, nothing happened, and the picture of her newest words to live by, Success is the intelligent use of mistakes.
Youre holding out for something that doesnt exist, Kelly. Theres no such thing as true love.
Her eyes filled and she turned away so that he wouldnt see. I think it exists. My parents had it. I dont want to settle for less. Thank you, Mike. Someday Ill probably kick myself for being a stupid fool. But I have to say no to your proposal.
He let out a long breath. If you change your mind, the offers open.
I cant think of anything that would make me change my mind. But I appreciate it. Now, if youll excuse me, Ive got a lot to do. The apartment management company is going to check out my application and let me know in a day or two if I have the apartment.
He stacked the things hed taken down. Youre determined to move out?
I think its for the best.
He shook his head, and she expected an argument But all he said was, See you later, Kel.
Good night, Mike.
The sight of him walking away, then the sound of the front door closing behind him were just about the loneliest things Kelly could imagine. She slumped into a chair and stared at nothing in particular. Mike Cameron had just asked her to marry him, and he was serious. Not only that, he was angry that shed refused his proposal. His kindness made her heart ache. A tangle of emotion tightened her chest and clogged her throat.
She was pregnant. She was unemployed. She was moving. She was probably crazy to boot. What woman in her right mind would say no to a hunky, handsome sweetheart like Mike? Tears gathered in her eyes and she sniffled. She reminded herself that she was doing this to protect him. But she couldnt stop the single teardrop that slipped from the corner of her eye, rolled down her cheek and plopped on her chest.
If she was doing the right thing, why did it feel so wrong and so awful?
Mike was in a bad mood the next day. At football practice the players couldnt do anything right. In his office afterward, he sat behind his desk and tried to figure out why. It didnt take him long to realize that it was him, not them. He was tired. Thanks to Kelly he hadnt slept well. She had made him mad as hell. Partly because she was moving out, but mostly because she had refused to marry him.
Once the idea had taken hold, hed really warmed to it. He wasnt quite sure why he wanted it so much until he glanced around his office. Everywhere he looked were reminders that without the Walker family, he wouldnt be where he was today. In the glass trophy case across from the door were high school, college and professional awards. There was a photograph of the football banquet during his senior year in high school when Frank Walker had insisted on giving Mike the most valuable player award. Even though the man had suffered a heart attack shortly after that night, Mike had tried never to let Frank Walker down. That had to be the reason why he wanted to marry Kelly and why he was so ticked off that she wouldnt.
Maybe his ego was bruised. But he had thought about that and was pretty sure that wasnt the case. Glancing at the wall again, he spotted a picture of him after college graduation. Kelly had talked him into attending the ceremony which he had thought a waste of time. Kelly had asked him why he didnt want to show off how smart he was. She had blitzed his cockiness when she had told him she couldnt stand guys whose IQ matched the circumference of their biceps. He respected her for that. Unfortunately he had married a woman who wasnt so discriminating.
The elbow injury that had ended his football career ended his marriage, too. The saying that things come in threes had never been more true. For him it was surprises. The first was that he hadnt really missed Carol after she left The second was the realization that he was happier without her. The third that he hadnt liked her much.
That wasnt the case with Kelly.
He knew he would miss her if she moved. He liked having her around. He just plain liked her. The more he had thought about it the more he was convinced that marrying her would be good for both of them. He just didnt think he could make Kelly see that
A knock on his office door interrupted his thoughts.
Its open, he said.
Jake Saterfield, a blond, blue-eyed, husky seventeenyear-old, walked in. He handed Mike a piece of paper. There was only one message in your box in the office, Coach. The look on his face said he expected to be chewed out for that fact. Mike felt bad about taking out his problems on the players.
Thanks for picking this up, Jake. The boy nodded and started to turn away. That was a good run you had today. Keep it up and youve got a shot at breaking the school record for yards rushing.
Jake grinned. You got it, Coach.
Howd English go today?
Mrs. Wishart said shed let me know my test grade, first, thing tomorrow.
How do you think you did?
He shrugged. I knew most of the answers.
Good. Hey, see you tomorrow.
Right
After the boy had gone, Mike checked the message. It was from the Southern California Real Estate Management Co.
He dialed the number and a womans voice came on the line. Miss Anderson.
He leaned back in his chair. This is Mike Cameron. You left a message for me. Im assuming this is about my tenant Kelly Walker?
Thats right, Mr. Cameron. She listed you as a reference on her application for an apartment.
Mike wasnt quite sure when the idea hit him, he only knew that it seemed like a good one. If Kelly didnt have a place to go, she couldnt move.
How long has Miss Walker been a tenant of yours, Mr. Cameron?
Not long. He put just a hint of disapproval in his voice.
Oh? He heard a hundred questions in that one syllable.
I guess youd like me to be specific. Shes rented from me for just under eight months.
And youve had problems with her? The tone was definitely suspicious.
Mike reminded himself that he owed it to her family to watch out for her. He could do that better if she stayed in the guest house. He propped his feet up on his desk. He didnt like doing this to Kelly, but there were times when she was too stubborn for her own good. I wouldnt say problems, he said, putting just a hint of hesitation in his voice. Did you know shes pregnant?
Yes, she gave us that information. The building accepts children, so thats not an obstacle. Is there anything else we should know about Miss Walker?
Mike winced, but he had to do it. Shes unemployed.
She put on her application that shes a teacher with the Newhall High School District
She is, but just until the end of the school year.
Does she have another position lined up?
Not that Im aware of.
Is there anything else that you think I should know? she asked.
No. I think Ive said enough.
Yes, I think you have Mr. Cameron. I appreciate your candor.
Glad to help, Miss Anderson.
Mike hung up the phone and couldnt help feeling like hed drop-kicked a kitten. It had been a splitsecond decision. He hadnt said anything that wasnt the truth. She didnt need to move out; he was doing this for her. His mouth pulled tight as he shook his head. No matter how he tried to whitewash it, he was a little surprised at how low hed sunk. Still, a little guilt was a small price to pay. He wasnt sorry hed sabotaged her.
Kelly carried another batch of boxes from her car into her bedroom, then went to the kitchen. The red light on her answering machine blinked twice. She pushed the button and after rewinding, a male voice came on. Kelly? If youre there, pick up the phone. Its Doug. Either youre not there, or youre not talking to me. Probably the latter. I dont blame you, but I need to speak with you. Since you wont return my calls, Im going to drop by. See you later.
Kelly groaned. Great. What else could go wrong?
Then she heard the second message. Miss Walker, this is Leigh Anderson. I wanted to let you know the apartment you looked at has been rented, and Im sorry to say there are no other vacancies. Give me a call if you have any questions.
The machine clicked off and Kelly slapped the ceramic tile counter. Double whammy.
Now she would have to hunt for another apartment. That would set her back, and she didnt have time to waste. She had to move, unpack and settle, and get a nursery ready for the baby before she was too far along in her pregnancy to do it.
And as for Dougshe did not want to see him, later or ever again in her lifetime.
She looked at her kitchen, the boxes stacked up and empty walls where her pictures had been. What am I going to do? she asked.
The answer came instantly. She would do what she always did. She would go talk to Mike. He was her friend, and no matter what he thought about her decisions, he would always stand by her.
That was what she would miss most when she moved.. She liked being able to talk to him. With a face like he had, what was not to like? But there was more to him than that or he wouldnt be her friend.
She slipped on her sneakers and walked across the driveway to his house. It was six oclock and still light out, but there was a chill in the evening air. In another month, it would be hot, and the baby would be bigger. Everyone said summer was the worst time to give birth. As far as she was concerned, her timing on that was the only thing that had gone right. School was out and she could resume teaching in September. She was sorry she wouldnt be at Stevenson, but she thought maybe a private school would hire her. She planned to submit applications in the next day or so.
She stood on Mikes brick porch and rang the bell. While she waited for him to answer, she straightened her floral maternity top over the matching stretch pants.
A second before Mike opened the door, a shadow on the beveled glass told her he was there. Then the flesh-and-blood man filled the doorway. Kellys heart skipped a little at the sight of him. The feeling was happening with more frequency, but she chalked it up to hormones. Pregnancy wreaked havoc on a womans body. Why couldnt she have a normal, physical reaction to a good-looking man? When her hormones settled down, so would the feeling.
Kelly, what are you doing here? Whats wrong?
What makes you think theres something wrong?
One of Mikes dark eyebrows lifted and there was a strange look on his face. If she didnt know better, she would have sworn he was expecting her.
You just look funny, he said.
That made sense. She felt funny, too. I just wanted to talk to you. May I come in?
Sure. He opened the door wider and stepped back to allow her inside.
Kelly loved his house. She knew he had hired a decorator, but his touch was there, too. The hardwood floor in the entryway where she stood, the oak-trimmed doorways around the kitchen straight ahead and the beige carpet in the living room to her left, he had insisted on those touches. There was a masculine air to the place mainly because of the lack of frills, flowers and froo-froo. It had a tangible solidness, like Mike. He was forthright and honest; he would never do anything shady or underhanded.
Have you eaten dinner yet? he asked.
She shook her head. Do you have an extra frozen dinner?
Yup. Hungry man size. Think you can handle it? One corner of his mouth lifted in a smile that was guaranteed to affect female hearts on the spot. Hers was no exception.
I think so. After all, Im eating for two.
She followed him into the kitchen and sat on one of the tall stools at the bar that separated the work area from the breakfast nook behind her.
Mike opened the freezer and pulled out a couple of dinners. Chicken and mashed potatoes all right? When she nodded, he read the directions and popped it into the microwave. What did you want to talk to me about?
They rented my apartment to someone else.
Really? he said, his back to her.
Yeah. Its not the only place in town, but two-bedroom units arent that easy to find in a security building that takes children and has an enclosed yard.
He punched some buttons, and the oven began to hum. He turned around. You look puzzled.
Theres a good reason for that. I dont understand what happened.
What do you mean?
When I looked at the apartment, Miss Anderson acted as if the place was already mine, and the background check was merely a formality. Today her manner was definitely cooler. Did she call you?
As a matter of fact, she did, he admitted.
What did she say?
She asked how long you had been my tenant and I told her. She said she knew about the baby.
Kelly nodded. I wanted to be up-front about that It didnt seem to be a problem.
Youre taking this too personally. They probably had more than one application. Id bet the other was from dinks.
She frowned. Thats not a very nice thing to say.
D.I.N.K.double income no kids.
Oh. She thought about that for a moment. Someone like that would be a better risk than a Q.I.B.O.W. Questionable income, baby on way. Maybe youre right.
Im sure I am. You want something to drink?
She nodded. I want a glass of wine.
He frowned. No alcohol for pregnant ladies.
I know that. I just said I wanted it. What have you got that I can have?
Mike turned away and looked in the refrigerator. I have milk, apple juice, soda or water.
Juice please, she said.
Kelly wondered if this was what it would feel like to be married. Eating dinner together, relating the events of the day, not being alone. It was nice. Mikes concern about her condition touched her, too, and a sense of wistfulness washed over her. To have someone to share things withthe babys movement, the results of her monthly doctor visits, heartburn, her fears about the birth, her fears about a roof over her head. But it was a fantasy.
At least for now. Someday she would find a man who would sweep her off her feet, and she would have all the love shed dreamed about. That goal was merely delayed, not unobtainable.
Mike set a glass of apple juice in front of her. He leaned his forearms on the cream-colored tiles and met her gaze. You know, Kel, you dont have to move.
Yes, I do. Its not fair that you be dragged into this situation.
Whether you like it or not, Im in it because Im your friend.
She put her hand on his arm. The little jolt she got from the contact with his warm skin surprised her. The slight flicker she saw in Mikes eyes made her wonder if hed felt something, too. She glanced down at her fingers on his forearm. Why had she never noticed before how tan he was compared to her? How wide and strong his wrists were? Must be that hormone thing again. Maybe it made a womans powers of observation more acute. Whatever the side effects, it would be best to ignore the sensation. She took her hand away and curled her fingers around her glass.
Mike, I dont want to argue with you. Ive made up my mind to move. Cant we just drop it?
He nodded. We can if youll promise not to make a hasty decision. Youve got a home as long as you want one. Dont do anything stupid.
Me? she said, pressing her palm to her chest in mock amazement. However can you say that? Just because Im pregnant
That sorry son of a bitch took advantage of you. Mike stood up straight and his dark eyes smoldered with anger.
Its not all his fault.
If he was any kind of man, he would never have pressed you under the circumstances. Good God, youd just buried your mother.
Dont forget I called him, she said.
Why are you defending him?
Im not. Im trying to be fair. She looked down into the golden liquid in her glass.
Theres something else, isnt there? What is it, Kelly?
She glanced up quickly. How do you always know?
Ive known you a long time. Tell me whats going on.
Dougs been calling me for the last couple weeks.
Mike tensed. What does he want?
I havent talked to him. Hes just left messages. I got another one today.
What did he say?
Hes coming over tonight.
Chapter Three (#ulink_64f380b5-3aee-5cf9-bcc1-d55970d7fa7c)
For Gods sake, Kelly, why didnt you say so before?
The microwave beeped loudly, and Mike took out the dinner. He pulled back the plastic and felt as hot as the steam escaping. He couldnt believe she had waited this long to tell him that the guy was harassing her.
As his anger grew, adrenaline pumped through him. He hadnt liked Doug the first time hed met him. After what hed done to Kelly, he promised himself if he ever saw the jerk again, he would make him wish hed never been born.
As if sensing his mood, Kelly shifted on the bar stool. I didnt tell you sooner because I hadnt planned to tell you at all. Forget it Ill handle Doug.
If theres anything left of him when I get through, youre welcome to it.
Kellys eyes widened. When did you develop these Neanderthal tendencies? This is a side of you Ive never seen before.
Mike wasnt sure himself why he felt this way. He hadnt wanted to deck a guy over a girl since high school. But the fact was Kelly was going through hell because of Doug Hammond and Mike wanted his pound of fleshor to pound Dougs flesh. He didnt much care which. When will he be here?
He didnt say. She took a sip of her juice.
Doesnt matter. Ill just hang around and take care of him.
Kelly put down the glass, and when she looked at him irritation was written all over her face.
This is my problem, Mike. I appreciate your friendship more than youll ever know, but its not a license to butt into my life. When he gets here, Ill listen to what he has to say, then Ill send him on his way.
Mike understood her wanting to do this on her own; that was the kind of woman Kelly was. He just couldnt get over the feeling that it would be like leaving a defenseless lamb to the big bad wolf.
Can I just be there when you see him? he asked.
No.
What if I promise not to say anything?
She snorted. Fat chance of that.
What if
No. You cant stay. Besides, dont you have a football meeting tonight?
He started to shake his head, then stopped when he realized she was right. Geez, with all this other stuff going on, I forgot. Its meet the coaches night. He folded his arms across his chest and looked at her. Ill just have to miss it.
You cant. This is when you take advantage of parental enthusiasm. Dean cant pull the volunteers out of the crowd the way you can.
Dean Thompson, his assistant coach, was a gifted tactician and terrific with the players. But Kelly was right. When it came to the parents, Mike was better at getting them to become involved. The program depended heavily on that. He couldnt miss the meeting.
Mike, dont worry about me. Im a big girl. I can take care of myself.
I dont like it, he grumbled, as he put the other dinner in the microwave. But I guess theres nothing I can do.
Youre sweet to worry about me.
He turned back to her. Ill tell you whats sweet. Remember that move Jim and I taught you before your very first date?
She grinned. Remember it? I got to use it that night. Do you remember who fixed me up with that octopus?
Everyones entitled to a minor error in judgment.
Minor?
He was here for the weekend. He was lonely. It was supposed to be dinner and a movie. How did I know he was going to come on to you? He looked at her. Just promise me one thing
What?
Before the jerk gets here, practice that move.
I will, she said, laughing.
The sound surrounded him and he grinned, surprised at how contagious her laughter was. As ticked off as hed been a minute before, he was sure no one but Kelly could have made him smile.
When Kelly had first found out about the baby, shed misplaced her smile for a while. Recently shed found it, and if Hammond did anything, to make her lose it again, Mike would hunt him down and take his pound of flesh. The man would never hurt Kelly again.
Kelly tensed when she heard the car pull up in front of her house. She knew the sound. It brought back painful memories of all the nights shed expected to hear it, then waited in vain for Doug to show up. She remembered the flimsy excuses shed believed because shed desperately wanted to. She would never forget the disillusionment of learning about his lies, his other women, after she found out she was going to have a baby.
There was nothing he could tell her now that she wanted to hear. She had nothing to say to him. Period. This should be a very short meeting. But she would feel a lot more confident if she could stop the butterflies in her stomach or the trembling in her hands.
She opened the door as he strode up the walkway. He smiled at her. Hello, Kelly.
Doug. She motioned him inside.
He had the lanky good looks of a male model in a pin-striped suit. The red tie he wore was perfectly knotted at the collar of his crisp white shirt. His sandy hair was slightly mussed, and his hazel eyes held an expression that said he was glad to see her. She didnt believe it
She frowned at him. What do you want?
Thats pretty cold, he said, raising an eyebrow.
The last time we spoke, you made it clear that you wanted nothing to do with the baby or me. I have no reason to think that the situations changed. So Id like to know what you want.
Doug looked sheepish. Im sorry about that, Kel
Dont call me that, she snapped.
All right. I just wanted you to know that Im sorry about the things I said. The situation caught me off guard and II suppose I sort of panicked.
You? Kelly shook her head at his smoothness. He was as cool as they came. She had found out the hard way how he could lie without batting an eye. Panicked?
Believe it or not, he said in that affable, self-effacing way that had charmed her once. You dont know what its like to hear that youre going to be a father.
Thats typical, Doug. Its always about you. Did you stop to think how I felt finding out I was going to be a mother?
Thats why Im here now.
Her eyes widened and she wanted to laugh in his face, or slap it. Im six months pregnant. Took you long enough. Her chest tightened with anger. During all that time did you think about what would happen to me? Whether or not this would affect my life, my job?
Has it?
You bet it has, buster. I dont have a job as of June.
His eyebrows pulled together and, if she didnt know better, she would have thought he was genuinely sorry.
Then its fortunate Im here.
Why?
Kelly, I want you to marry me. I want to be a father to our child.
Kellys jaw dropped. She didnt know what she had expected him to say, but it certainly wasnt this.
Her reaction was knee-jerk, and she should have put it exactly where Mike and her brother had taught her. Instead, she clasped her shaking hands together and tried to control her astonishment, then the surge of anger that followed.
I wouldnt marry you if you were the last man on earth.
There was no reaction on his face, no indication whether her words had hurt him or not. Think about this carefully. You just said youll be out of a job come June. How are you going to support yourself, let alone a kid?
A kid? The baby was just an impersonal, nuisance kid as far as he was concerned. She didnt want him anywhere near her child, not to mention raising him. Ill work it out. Alone, she added firmly.
If you marry me, I can take care of you both. Im up for a partnership in the law firm
I smell a rat, she said, her eyes narrowing. With time and distance, she had realized Doug never did anything for anyone else unless there was something in it for him. Besides, hed never said a word about loving her. If she hadnt been so upset, it would have been funny. Two proposals in two days. Must be some kind of record for a pregnant lady. Shed been tempted to take Mike up on his offer, but Dougs left her cold.
He looked down for a moment, then met her suspicious gaze. You know the firm is very conservative and traditional. I dont want to say that Im not concerned about my success. But thats not the reason I asked you
Stuff a sock in it, Doug. Of course thats the reason. She took a deep breath. Now I want you to listen, because Im only going to say this once. I should have known that a lawyer who would sleep with his client couldnt be trusted. Youre a liar and Id be a fool to ever trust you again. Theres nothing you could say that would persuade me to marry you.
.
.
, (https://www.litres.ru/teresa-southwick/wedding-rings-and-baby-things/) .
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Teresa Southwick
I'M YOUR GROOMDEBUT AUTHORBABY ON THE WAYEveryone in town was talking about the pregnant and unmarried teacher. Kelly's conditionnot to mention swelling bellywere a source of good gossip and great concern. For her baby's sake, Kelly knew escaping scandal meant finding an instant dad.Mike Cameron was not the father of Kelly's child, though everyone thought he was. So he did the honorable thing and proposed marriage. Now she could have the family she'd always dreamed of. If only their marriage vows of love, honor and cherish were not just for convenience's sake.Five irresistible heroes say "I DO" for a lifetime of love. I'M YOUR GROOM.
Table of Contents
Cover Page (#u90cc5159-651b-5bd2-a211-9a9f86fc58ed)
Excerpt (#u5220e552-3fef-56bd-9f34-cd2fbf040e6d)
Dear Reader (#ub2316f1a-113e-5943-9b3c-f97f4fed0631)
Title Page (#u3918131b-8dc9-5276-b73d-e58e521e7780)
Dedication (#u790f23d2-797f-5aad-ac42-4609c99e238b)
About the Author (#u4ccb6ab7-a8a5-554a-8da6-c1ad34b83769)
Chapter One (#u2ddd35b0-e25e-52d9-a94d-be5870695f6a)
Chapter Two (#u412267be-3f9e-53a8-83e1-c47184f67cb1)
Chapter Three (#u8a3052fe-043c-5030-ab60-bc6673d82463)
Chapter Four (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Five (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Six (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Seven (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Eight (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Nine (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Ten (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Eleven (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Twelve (#litres_trial_promo)
Preview (#litres_trial_promo)
Copyright (#litres_trial_promo)
Kelly, theres no such thing as true love
She turned away so that he wouldnt see her hurt. I think it exists. I dont want to settle for less. Now, if youll excuse me, Ive got a lot to do. Good night, Mike. She held the door open.
The sight of him walking away, then the sound of the front door closing, were just about the loneliest things Kelly could imagine. Mike Cameron had just asked her to marry him, and he was serious. Not only that, he was angry that shed refused his proposal.
She was pregnant She was unemployed. She was moving. She was probably crazy. What woman in her right mind would say no to a handsome hunk like Mike? She reminded herself that she was doing this to protect him.
But if she was doing the right thing, why did it feel so wrong and awful?
Dear Reader,
Happy Valentines Dayl Silhouette Romances Valentine to you is our special lineup this month, starting with Daddy by Decision by bestselling, award-winning author Lindsay Longford. When rugged cowboy Buck Riley sees his estranged ex with a child who looks just like him, he believes the little boy is his son. True or not, that belief in his heartand his love for mother and childis all he needs to be a FABULOUS FATHER.
And were celebrating love and marriage with IM YOUR GROOM, a five-book promotion about five irresistible heroes who say I do for a lifetime of love. In Carolyn Zanes Its Raining Grooms, a preachers daughter prays for a husband and suddenly finds herself engaged to her gorgeous childhood nemesis. To Wed Again? by DeAnna Talcott tells the story of a divorced couple who are blessed with a second chance at marriage when they become instant parents. Next, in Judith Janeways An Accidental Marriage, the maid of honor and the best man are forced to act like the eloped newly weds when the brides parents arrive!
Plus, two authors sure to become favorites make their Romance debuts this month. In Husband Next Door by Anne Ha, a very confirmed bachelor is reformed into marriage material, and in Wedding Rings and Baby Things by Teresa Southwick, an anyminute mom-to-be says I do to a marriage of convenience that leads to a lifetime of love.
I hope you enjoy all six of these wonderful books.
Warm wishes,
Melissa Senate,
Senior Editor
Silhouette Books
Please address questions and book requests to: Silhouette Reader Service
U.S.: 3010 Walden Ave., P.O. Box 1325, Buffalo, NY 14269
Canadian: P.O. Box 609, Fort Erie, Ont. L2A 5X3
Wedding Rings and Baby Things
Teresa Southwick
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
To Jim, my big brother and very own legal eagle. Thanks for giving me the words to make Mike a here. For always being there and understanding, you have my everlasting gratitude.
TERESA SOUTHWICK
is a native Californian with ties to each coast, since she was conceived in the East and born in the West. Living with her husband of twenty-five years and two handsome sons, she is surrounded by heroes. Reading has been her passion since she was a girl. She couldnt be more delighted that her dream of writing full-time has come true. Her favorite things include: holding a baby, the fragrance of jasmine, walks on the beach, the patter of rain on the roof, and above allhappy endings.
Teresa also writes historical romance novels under the same name.
Chapter One (#ulink_3fb924ec-53c6-5e23-ae61-bda30cd07236)
Shed picked a bad time to swear off men.
Not that it was a permanent situation, Kelly Walker amended. Besides, her condition wasnt exactly conducive to getting involved with men, and that was the way she wanted to keep it
On the other hand, her condition was probably the reason she had been summoned to the administration office in the high school where she taught. She stared at the wavy, light-and-dark wood grain in the door marked Principal. As much as she tried to tell herself differently, it wasnt likely that Mr. Bloomhurst had summoned her here to discuss her interpretation of Hamlet. He probably wanted to talk about the fact that she was six months pregnant, not marriedand not getting married.
Stevenson High School was located in Newhall, the small California town where shed grown up. No one knew better than she how people talked, how quickly gossip circulated. She had expected when this news got out it would spread like soft butter on a hot muffin.
Since she hadnt begun to really show until the last week or so, she had been able to keep her condition quiet. Only two people were supposed to know that she was going to have a baby. Susan Wishart, who taught in the classroom next to Kellys, and Mike Cameron, head of the math department, head football coach and her very best friend in the world. She had made them promise not to say anything until she could break the news to Mr. Bloomhurst herself. As many times as shed rehearsed everything in her mind, she still wasnt prepared for this chat with her boss.
She had figured on telling him at the end of the school year when the next term assignments were given out. It was now the beginning of May. In the Arizona school where shed taught before, teachers didnt find out until the last week before summer, vacation what they would be teaching in the fall. She was just finishing up her second year at Stevenson and was still getting used to how things were done here.
She had thought shed been able to camouflage her swelling body with loose clothes, but she had been getting some long, curious looks. First the eyebrows went up when someones eyes dropped to her midsection. Then the gaze lifted to see if her face had gotten rounder. Then the examination dropped below her belly to her legs to determine if she had put on weight everywhere. After all of this, which took about a second and a half, the person pretended she hadnt noticed a thing. So far everyone who was perceptive enough to give her the ritual once-over hadnt said anything.
Everyone, that is, except Elizabeth McCutcheon. Earlier today, she had asked Kelly point-blank if she was going to have a baby. Kelly had said yes. Mrs. McCutcheon hadnt let it drop there. She said she hadnt heard that Kelly had gotten married. Kelly told her she hadnt. Even in this small town, the majority of people wouldnt have pushed the issue, but Mrs. McCutcheon happened to be the president of the districts Parent Advisory Committee.
Hence Kellys summons to Mr. Bloomhurst after school.
She took a deep breath and knocked.
Come in, a voice called out.
She opened the door and walked inside.
Cliff Bloomhurst glanced up from the paperwork on his desk. Hi, Kelly.
Mr. Bloomhurst.
He smiled, looking at her over the half glasses he needed only for reading and now had balanced on the tip of his nose. The sleeves of his white shirt were rolled up to the elbow, and his red-and-blue-striped tie was loosened just enough to release the button at his neck. His thinning brown hair was peppered with gray and there was genuine warmth in his light blue eyes. She liked him a lot. He was a nice man.
Come on in. And shut the door, please. His voice was a sort of down-home drawl that normally put her completely at ease. But not today.
Kelly did as he asked, then perched on the edge of one of the green plastic chairs in front of his desk. Nervously she rested her elbows on the metal armrests and laced her fingers together.
I know what this is about, she said. Lets cut to the chase. Im going to have a baby.
So I heard.
I planned to tell you soon. The baby is due at the end of July or the beginning of August. I will be here on the first day of school in September.
I wish I didnt have to ask, butare you planning to marry the babys father?
No.
Even if Doug Hammond had proposed instead of telling her not to expect any support, she wouldnt tie herself to a man who was so underhanded and untrust-worthy. She was sorry she hadnt seen sooner what a jerk Doug was. After that conversation, she hadnt expected to hear from him again. But in the last couple weeks, he had left messages on her answering machine. She hadnt returned them and hoped he would get the hint that she wanted him out of her life forever. She couldnt stand the sight of the man, but she would never be sorry about the baby she now carried.
Mr. Bloomhurst looked genuinely sympathetic. Then my hands are tied, Kelly. Liz McCutcheon went to the school board after she spoke to you today. They called me with a decision. You wont be back in September.
Kellys heart sank. I dont understand.
Youre a fine teacher. No one knows that or appreciates the job you do more than me. But the school board wont permit a pregnant, unmarried teacher in the classroom. Theyre concerned about the example it sets for the students.
But this is the nineties, Mr. Bloomhurst.
He nodded grimly. I know. But this is Newhall, California, Small Town, U.S.A. Its a nice place to live. But that can be a double-edged sword.
I wont be pregnant in September.
Are you planning to keep the child?
Of course! Kelly was shocked that he would even ask. It would never occur to her to give away her child.
You wont be married, either, and youll still have a child out of wedlock. I did my best to change their minds, but they were adamant.
Kelly was numb. She knew that was a good thing. She didnt want to go hysterical in front of this man. I suppose theres nothing I can do?
He shook his head. If you had tenure, you could probably fight the ruling.
She stood up and gripped the back of the chair so tightly her knuckles turned white. Do you want me. to finish out the last four weeks?
Id appreciate it
But Im still pregnant. What about Mrs. McCutcheon?
Ill handle Liz. He looked down for a moment, then back up at her. I know this is hypocritical, but Id like to keep the news quiet and have you finish up. with your classes until the end of the year. It would be disruptive to the students to bring in a substitute now.
She nodded. I wouldnt do anything to hurt the kids. Some of them need these grades for college.
I appreciate that, Kelly. He folded his hands and looked at her a little uncomfortably. May I ask you a personal question? You dont have to answer if you dont want to.
I have nothing to hide.
Theres a rumor He cleared his throat. Is Mike the babys father?
No! Mike Cameron? The idea shocked her. Then she almost laughed out loud. Shed known Mike since she was a kid. Once shed had a crush on him, but shed gotten over that years ago. Were good friends, nothing more. I rent his guest house Aha, that was probably why someone, probably Mrs. Busybody McCutcheon, had jumped to some wild conclusions.
Im sorry. I had to ask. It was a stupid question. If he was the father we wouldnt be having this discussion. Mr. Bloomhurst took off his glasses. He stood up and held out his hand. If theres anything I can ever do, just let me know.
I will, Kelly said, putting her fingers in his palm. She knew he truly meant what he said, but she couldnt help being angry and upset As nice as he was, he was still a man. As much as she needed one right now, a. he was already married, and b. she had sworn off menmaybe forever.
Kelly drove into Mikes driveway, past his large Spanish-style home, then braked in front of the smaller guest house. She leaned to the left and pulled the lever to pop the trunk on her four-door car before getting out to remove the empty cardboard boxes. As she moved purposefully up the curved, brick walkway to her front porch, she tried to shake the fear she was feeling about finding a new job and a place to live.
After unlocking the heavy oak door, she clicked on the front porch light and tossed the boxes inside, then retrieved the rest from the car. When she was finished, she slung her purse on the parsons bench just beside the door of her two-bedroom apartment. With the flick of a switch on the wall, brass lamps illuminated the interior of her comfortable living room with the floral sofa and matching love seat. Oak tables sat on either end of the sofa with a coffee table in front. Her lowheeled shoes sank in the thick hunter green carpet. All the emotions she had been fending off all day gathered into a lump in her throat. How she was going to miss this place.
She recalled when Mike had insisted that her mother pick out the color of the rug, just before theyd moved in. Ill as she was, Margaret Walker had perked up visibly at the excitement of redecorating. Kelly would always be grateful for Mikes kindness to her mother.
Thats why she had to protect him now.
It was evening, after seven. She hadnt eaten, but she wasnt hungry. She had spent the time since leaving Mr. Bloomhurst making decisions about what to do. The first one was to move.
After kicking off her shoes, she took a box into the kitchen and started removing things that she hardly ever used from the topmost shelves of her cupboards.
The clatter she made nearly drowned out the doorbell, and she wasnt sure shed actually heard it. But a second later an insistent ringing told her loud and clear that pregnancy had not affected her ears.
In her bare feet she padded to the front door and opened it.
Where the hell have you been? Mike Cameron glared at her and barged through the doorway.
Hi, Mike. Im fine, thanks. How are you? Come on in, she said, closing the door. Turning her back on him, she headed through the dining room back to the kitchen. She squatted down and started putting dish towels and odds and ends into a box.
Mike was hot on her heels. She heard his athletic shoes squeak on the tile floor as he stopped short behind her. I was worried. When you didnt show up to tutor Jake, I was about to call the cops.
Kelly groaned and stood up. Im sorry, Mike. I completely forgot.
Whats wrong? he asked. His dark, almost black, eyes bored into her as if he could see every single secret she had.
What makes you think theres something wrong?
Because youre the most responsible, organized, punctual person I know.
Watch it. Youll turn my head with flattery like that.
Cut it out, Kelly. Whats going on? Where were you? Its not like you to forget about one of your students.
I had a bad day. Ill call Jake right now and see if hes available.
She started for the phone, which was right next to where Mike stood in the doorway. When she caught a glimpse of his face, she stopped. Every once in a while she was taken aback by his athletic good looks. His dark hair was cut short, and more often than not he wore a baseball cap that said Stevenson Football on it He was thirty-five years old, but still boyish looking in spite of the shadow of beard that darkened his jaw. She studied him critically and realized he appeared boyish only when he was smiling, which he was definitely not doing now. At the moment he glowered at her, and his eyes smoldered with anger.
That surprised her. She felt badly that she had missed her appointment, but she had a sneaking suspicion Jake Saterfield was relieved that she hadnt shown up. Mikes star running back put English composition in the same category that the average person put a root canal.
Mike seemed to fill the doorway of her kitchen. Dont bother calling him. He went to his girlfriends house to study.
Jessica is an honors student. If they actually get some work done, hell do fine on his test in Susans class tomorrow.
The hell with his test tomorrow.
I thought you were concerned about his grade and his eligibility to play in September.
I am. But right now Im more concerned about you. I asked you where you were. Hey, what are you doing with these boxes?
Im packing.
I can see that. Why are you packing? You shouldnt be doing that kind of stuff. Youre pregnant, for Gods sake. He crossed his arms over his chest and she couldnt help noticing how his red T-shirt pulled tight around his powerful bicep. He was in tiptop physical shape, and reminded Kelly just how ungainly she looked right now. His black shorts showed off his athletic build, right down to his narrow waist and muscular, well-formed thighs. Mike was enough to make a womans heart beat double-time. If that woman hadnt sworn off men, of course.
Kelly had always thought Mike was a hunk in stretch cotton, since the very first time shed seen him when her older brother Jim had brought him home after football practice. But there had never been anything of a romantic nature in her relationship with Mike. He had always treated her like a younger sister, and that had killed her crush pretty quickly. But that didnt mean she was deaf, dumb and blind. He was a good-looking man, too sexy for his own good, a fact proven by a string of broken female hearts over the years.
Since when has pregnancy been a debilitating disease? she asked snappishly.
Mikes eyebrows lifted at her tone, even though she hadnt meant to be sharp. Without a word, he walked over to her and gently held her upper arms, squeezing them reassuringly. As he scanned her face, concern replaced irritation.
Kelly, somethings happened. Tell me whats wrong.
She fixed her gaze on the tab collar of his shirt, dismayed that she felt very close to tears. That hadnt happened to her since getting the news. Why now, in front of Mike?
Ive been fired.
He frowned. Fired?
Yes, as in canned, sacked and let go. As of the end of the school year.
But youre one of the best teachers Cliff has. I dont understand.
Dont blame Mr. Bloomhurst. He didnt want to do it. The school board made the decision. Its because of the baby, she said, placing one hand protectively on her abdomen. Actually, thats not entirely true. Its because Im not married to the babys father.
Any woman who marries that jerk should have her head examined.
Dont start, Mike, or Ill be forced to bring up Bambi.
Her name was not Bambi. It was Jennifer.
Same thing, Kelly said. Suddenly she was exhausted. Im going to sit down. If you can be supportive and appropriately sympathetic, youre welcome to join me in the living room. If not, go away.
Come on, he said, taking her hand and leading her to the sofa in front of the red brick fireplace.
Mike sat down beside her. He had been relieved when he heard Kellys car come up the drive and saw the lights go on in the guest house. As far as he knew, she hadnt missed an appointment for anything since he and her brother, Jim, had kidnapped her for breakfast on her eighteenth birthday and she hadnt shown up to get her hair cut
Mike half turned so he could see Kellys face, just as she tucked a dark strand of hair behind her ear. Over the years, hed seen her with long and short styles, but he decided he liked this sophisticated, page boy look best. Her thick mahogany hair hit her just about chin length and drew his attention to her face. Purple smudges darkened her skin, just below her green eyes. She looked delicate and fragile. He hated that she was losing her job, because she was a fine teacher, and she had a lot to offer her students. Mostly he hated it because of what it was doing to her.
He knew Kelly, and he would bet there was more to the story. She still hadnt explained to him about the boxes.
Why are you packing? he asked.
Thats usually what you do before you move.
His gut tightened. Move? Why? Especially now. Just a damn minute. Bloomhurst might be able to can you, which is an issue Ill get to in a minute, but he cant run you out of town.
Who said anything about leaving town? Im taking an apartment on Walnut Street, she said, looking down. She folded her hands in her lap.
The movement pulled her oversized navy blue top across her gently curved abdomen. She had no business moving in her condition.
I want the whole story, Kelly. This isnt like you. Youre not exactly a spontaneous person.
There you go with the flattery again
Dont change the subject. Spit it out.
You wont like it, she said, glancing at him.
I already dont. How much worse can it get?
Theres a rumor that youre the babys father.
What? He sat forward. Thats the dumbest thing I ever heard. Were just friends.
She nodded. I said you wouldnt like it. Im pretty sure Liz McCutcheon mentioned it to Mr. Bloomhurst, but I cant say I wouldnt jump to the same conclusion myself. After all, I live a stones throw from your front door.
But were just friends.
You said that already. She sighed. I know it and you know it, but think how the arrangement must look to everyone else. Thats why I have to move.
No, you dont. Mike was surprised at how angry he was; he didnt want Kelly to move. Not because she was pregnant and it would be hard on her and the baby, and not because he hated knuckling under to gossipmongers, but because he liked having her across the driveway from him.
Kelly and her mother had moved in about six weeks before Mrs. Walker had died of cancer. Several years before the woman he thought of as a second mother had refused Mikes offer of a loan to help her son, Jim, establish his accounting business in Phoenix. She had -mortgaged her home instead. When she had become ill, she hadnt wanted Kelly and Jim to have to deal with a large payment, and had sold her property. Kelly had moved back from Arizona to take care of her mother, and Mike had insisted the two of them live in his empty guest house. They had agreed, but only if he would let them pay rent. After her mother had passed away, Kelly stayed. She didnt know the money went into a bank account for her. If he couldnt talk her out of moving, she might need it sooner than hed expected.
Dont you see, Mike? I wont let any of this hurt you. If I move, the rumors will go away.
If people already think Im the father, your moving wont change anything. Mike stood up and started pacing. Im going to see Cliff in the morning and set him straight. Im going to get your job back and raise so much hell an 8.0 earthquake will look like a walk in the park.
Dont, Mike. First of all, Mr. Bloomhurst was told to fire me, and it was his job to do it. Besides, he didnt start the rumor. Second, his hands are tied and he doesnt deserve to have you come down on him. Id prefer to go quietly.
Mike saw the slight tremble of her lip, just before she caught it between her teeth. Then he saw red.
I may not be able to do any good, but hes sure as hell going to know how I feel, he said.
And what good will that do? What if you get fired, too?
I made enough money playing pro ball. I dont need their job. And I sure as hell dont need an ulcer. Someone needs to tell that uptight McCutcheon that she cant mess with peoples lives.
She can and she did. But thats my problem. If you get fired, whats going to happen to your football team in the fall? Youve been teaching and training your senior players since they were freshmen. That was your first year here. They have a chance at the league title for the first time in years. You cant abandon them.
And youre not abandoning your students?
I dont have a choice. You do.
Youre a gifted teacher, Kelly. You cant let a narrow-minded group of people run you off without a fight. The kids will be the real losers.
I havent got tenure. I have no weapons to fight with. And youre right about the kids being the losers. The football program brings in a lot of revenue. Just think what would happen if you give the community a championship.
As much as he hated to admit it, she was right. He had some talented young men who he had taken as skinny fourteen-year-olds and molded into fine players. If he left now and had to be replaced, this years football program would be sacked big-time. It could scrap the season for these guys, and more important than that, it would affect their chances to be looked at by colleges for athletic scholarships.
Okay, youve got a point. I wont give McCutcheon a piece of my mind. He stopped pacing and pointed at her. Dont you dare tell me I cant spare any to give her.
Everyone knows jocks have more muscles than brains.
For the first time since shed let him in, Kelly laughed. The worry and frown lines were gone for a moment and it was like the sun had come out after a storm. Mike found that he wanted to chase away her clouds so she would always look sunny.
He wouldnt go to the school board, but he would find a way to help her somehow. He hated seeing her lose her job. He knew how much she wanted the baby. There must be a way she could have both. And he had to convince her that she didnt have to protect him. He didnt give a damn what people said.
She sighed. If only I had tenure, it wouldnt be so easy to get rid of me.
What did Cliff say to you?
That the school board could not allow a woman in the classroom who was pregnant and unmarried.
Mike continued to pace in front of the fireplace. So the M word is the key factor here. How did you find out that people think Im juniors father?
Mr. Bloomhurst told me, then came right out and asked. After that he said it was a stupid question.
Why?
He said if you were the babys father, he and I wouldnt be having the discussion at all. What do you suppose he meant by that?
Mike knew exactly what Cliff had meant He was surprised he hadnt thought of it himself. He came to a halt and looked at her. It was brilliant. He liked her; she liked him; they both liked kids. Why not?
Mike, you have a strange look on your face. What are you thinking about?
I have it, Kelly. The perfect solution to our problem.
Its not our problem. Its my problem and Id appreciate it if you would
Id appreciate it if you would be quiet and listen to my ingenious solution.
All right. What is the magic answer?
Marry me.
Chapter Two (#ulink_4181b6ae-ef00-54d9-88d0-21b91d560584)
Kellys eyes widened. Marry you?
Yes.
This is not a joking matter, Mike. Like I said before, if you cant be supportive, then go away.
Im not kidding.
Then youve been tackled one too many times without a helmet.
Theres nothing wrong with my head, Kelly. This is the right thing to do.
Right for whom? I dont need a man to rescue me.
You need to be married. And how youre going to do that without a man is beyond me. Mike started pacing again.
Ive sworn off men.
Have you sworn off friends, too, Kelly? He stopped and folded his arms over his chest. I want to help.
I appreciate that, Mike. But marriage? She looked at him helplessly. Friends change your flat tire. They loan you five dollars to tide you over until payday. They tell you when theres lipstick on your teeth. They dont marry you because youre going to have a baby.
Why not? The way he was looking at her, Kelly could swear he was dead serious.
She was truly touched by Mikes gesture, but it was out of the question. Before I try to beat some sense into you, I have a why of my own.
Shoot, he said, and braced himself.
Why would you want to get married again? Since your divorce youve been swearing that no woman would drag you down ball-and-chain lane again. So why would you do this?
Why should I marry thee, let me count the whys.
Youre not a poet, Mike. And youre not funny.
Im not trying to be funny. He put his hands on his hips. Ive got a proposition for you.
Is this one going to be more outrageous than the last one? She rolled her eyes, but couldnt help laughing.
Im going to ignore your sarcasm, Ms. Walker. How about this? If I can come up with ten good reasons why we should get married, youll say yes to my proposal.
Kelly had him now. There was no way he could come up with one really good reason, let alone ten. All right. Youre on. Is there a time limit?
He looked offended. This isnt Jeopardy.
That all depends on your point of view. She settled herself comfortably against the cushions of the couch and looked at him, waiting for him to start. Any time youre ready. Reason number one.
He leaned a shoulder against the oak mantel and thought for a minute. You dont hate football. My first wife couldnt stand it, except for the so-called celebrity perks.
Remember, these have to be good reasons.
Whats better than football? But if you dont think thats good enough, Ive got nine more. He started walking back and forth in front of her. Then he stopped and said, Okay, Ive got it. If Im married, women will leave me alone, and I wont have to beat them off with a stick. And we could use two-for-one coupons at restaurants.
Will you stop being ridiculous? Marriage is not a prerequisite for a dinner date. And dont forget I live across the driveway. I havent seen more than a babe or two beating a path to your door. That doesnt seem like a problem that requires this drastic a solution. She folded her arms and looked at him sternly. I need serious, personal reasons.
All right. What about repaying your family for taking me in as a kid when I needed discipline and guidance? What about the fact that the night before she died, I promised your mother Id look out for you? And the fact that I didnt keep that promise or you wouldnt be in this situation now?
His commitment to that vow touched her deeply. He was a wonderful guy and it was comforting to know she had someone like him in her corner. But she had to convince him that he wasnt to blame for everything that happened to her.
My.parents wanted you to live with us because they cared about kids and you were in trouble. They knew youd turn out all right, all you needed was a firm hand. They were absolutely right. She placed her palm on her stomach. My mother didnt expect you to be my keeper. Im not your responsibility, Mike.
Yeah? Then why do I still feel responsible? You called me the night after the funeral, right after your brother went back to Phoenix. I wasnt here.
And I called Doug because I needed someone to talk to. What I didnt know was that he didnt have talking in mind when he came over.
Id still like to break his neck for taking advantage of you the way he did. Mike looked angry, furious in fact She was surprised that he still felt that strongly after all these months.
What would he do if he knew Doug was trying to get in touch with her? Hed left messages at school and on the answering machine at home, but she hadnt returned any of his calls. For Mikes sake she decided it would be best not to tell him.
Guilt is not a good reason to marry, Mike. Lets go at this from a different angle. What would I get from marrying you? Besides the obvious reason, she said looking at her stomach.
He thought for a minute. Joint tax return. You could be the official team tutor.
Im that, anyway. Why would anything change?
Then what about a name for the baby? he asked.
Ill pick out names. I dont need help for that.
No. I mean a last name.
Kellys gaze met his, and she knew what he was thinking. Mikes mother had never married his father. In school he had gotten into fights because of what the kids had called him. Bastard. A dirty, filthy name. All the more hurtful because it was true. He was politely telling her that if she wasnt married when her baby was born, the child would be a bastard. She felt a tightness in her chest, a small pain around her heart
That was hitting below the belt, Mike.
You dont have a belt anymore, Kel.
She blinked and looked away. Youve gone from ridiculous to the Dark Ages. This is the nineties. A lot of women are choosing single parenthood.
I may be old, but I can still remember how it feels to be different from the other kids. That hasnt changed.
I dont want to play this game anymore. Kelly stood up and started toward the kitchen.
Mike took her arm to stop her, then turned her to him. Im not trying to hurt you, but there are some things you should think about. Ive given you a lot of outstanding reasons why marriage is a practical solution to your situation.
You havent given me one thats good for you. And dont tell me about running interference for Bambi and Fawn, or the guilt factor or football. Why in the world would you want to get married?
He sighed and dropped his hand from her arm. As you pointed out, Im old. Old men get tired of living alone.
Mr. Bachelor Mike Cameron tired of living alone? For just an instant she saw a trace of loneliness on his face. Shed never seen him this way and it warmed her heart that he would share that with her.
I didnt say you were old. I said you were living in the Dark Ages.
Means the same thing.
All right, youre ancient and you want someone to share the rocking chair with. Why me, Mike? Im going to have a baby. Doesnt that make you want to kick that rocker into high gear and run the other way?
No. You want to know why? He looked into her eyes and she nodded. His expression told her he was being completely serious now, and that got her attention in a big way.
Were friends, Kelly. The best. Thats more than most people ever have. You know what else? She shook her head. Its all. I ever expect to have. So that makes it pretty good.
But its not all I ever expect to have.
You said youve sworn off men.
Not forever. Someday I want to find real love, romantic love. She walked back into the kitchen to continue dismantling her personal possessions. She climbed onto a chair and reached for her cow picture with the words Feeding Time.
What are you doing on that chair? Mike took her elbow and helped her down. Dont ever do that again. Ill get that stuff for you.
He reached the things she couldntthe clock her mother had made, the brass plaque that said, On this spot in 1897, nothing happened, and the picture of her newest words to live by, Success is the intelligent use of mistakes.
Youre holding out for something that doesnt exist, Kelly. Theres no such thing as true love.
Her eyes filled and she turned away so that he wouldnt see. I think it exists. My parents had it. I dont want to settle for less. Thank you, Mike. Someday Ill probably kick myself for being a stupid fool. But I have to say no to your proposal.
He let out a long breath. If you change your mind, the offers open.
I cant think of anything that would make me change my mind. But I appreciate it. Now, if youll excuse me, Ive got a lot to do. The apartment management company is going to check out my application and let me know in a day or two if I have the apartment.
He stacked the things hed taken down. Youre determined to move out?
I think its for the best.
He shook his head, and she expected an argument But all he said was, See you later, Kel.
Good night, Mike.
The sight of him walking away, then the sound of the front door closing behind him were just about the loneliest things Kelly could imagine. She slumped into a chair and stared at nothing in particular. Mike Cameron had just asked her to marry him, and he was serious. Not only that, he was angry that shed refused his proposal. His kindness made her heart ache. A tangle of emotion tightened her chest and clogged her throat.
She was pregnant. She was unemployed. She was moving. She was probably crazy to boot. What woman in her right mind would say no to a hunky, handsome sweetheart like Mike? Tears gathered in her eyes and she sniffled. She reminded herself that she was doing this to protect him. But she couldnt stop the single teardrop that slipped from the corner of her eye, rolled down her cheek and plopped on her chest.
If she was doing the right thing, why did it feel so wrong and so awful?
Mike was in a bad mood the next day. At football practice the players couldnt do anything right. In his office afterward, he sat behind his desk and tried to figure out why. It didnt take him long to realize that it was him, not them. He was tired. Thanks to Kelly he hadnt slept well. She had made him mad as hell. Partly because she was moving out, but mostly because she had refused to marry him.
Once the idea had taken hold, hed really warmed to it. He wasnt quite sure why he wanted it so much until he glanced around his office. Everywhere he looked were reminders that without the Walker family, he wouldnt be where he was today. In the glass trophy case across from the door were high school, college and professional awards. There was a photograph of the football banquet during his senior year in high school when Frank Walker had insisted on giving Mike the most valuable player award. Even though the man had suffered a heart attack shortly after that night, Mike had tried never to let Frank Walker down. That had to be the reason why he wanted to marry Kelly and why he was so ticked off that she wouldnt.
Maybe his ego was bruised. But he had thought about that and was pretty sure that wasnt the case. Glancing at the wall again, he spotted a picture of him after college graduation. Kelly had talked him into attending the ceremony which he had thought a waste of time. Kelly had asked him why he didnt want to show off how smart he was. She had blitzed his cockiness when she had told him she couldnt stand guys whose IQ matched the circumference of their biceps. He respected her for that. Unfortunately he had married a woman who wasnt so discriminating.
The elbow injury that had ended his football career ended his marriage, too. The saying that things come in threes had never been more true. For him it was surprises. The first was that he hadnt really missed Carol after she left The second was the realization that he was happier without her. The third that he hadnt liked her much.
That wasnt the case with Kelly.
He knew he would miss her if she moved. He liked having her around. He just plain liked her. The more he had thought about it the more he was convinced that marrying her would be good for both of them. He just didnt think he could make Kelly see that
A knock on his office door interrupted his thoughts.
Its open, he said.
Jake Saterfield, a blond, blue-eyed, husky seventeenyear-old, walked in. He handed Mike a piece of paper. There was only one message in your box in the office, Coach. The look on his face said he expected to be chewed out for that fact. Mike felt bad about taking out his problems on the players.
Thanks for picking this up, Jake. The boy nodded and started to turn away. That was a good run you had today. Keep it up and youve got a shot at breaking the school record for yards rushing.
Jake grinned. You got it, Coach.
Howd English go today?
Mrs. Wishart said shed let me know my test grade, first, thing tomorrow.
How do you think you did?
He shrugged. I knew most of the answers.
Good. Hey, see you tomorrow.
Right
After the boy had gone, Mike checked the message. It was from the Southern California Real Estate Management Co.
He dialed the number and a womans voice came on the line. Miss Anderson.
He leaned back in his chair. This is Mike Cameron. You left a message for me. Im assuming this is about my tenant Kelly Walker?
Thats right, Mr. Cameron. She listed you as a reference on her application for an apartment.
Mike wasnt quite sure when the idea hit him, he only knew that it seemed like a good one. If Kelly didnt have a place to go, she couldnt move.
How long has Miss Walker been a tenant of yours, Mr. Cameron?
Not long. He put just a hint of disapproval in his voice.
Oh? He heard a hundred questions in that one syllable.
I guess youd like me to be specific. Shes rented from me for just under eight months.
And youve had problems with her? The tone was definitely suspicious.
Mike reminded himself that he owed it to her family to watch out for her. He could do that better if she stayed in the guest house. He propped his feet up on his desk. He didnt like doing this to Kelly, but there were times when she was too stubborn for her own good. I wouldnt say problems, he said, putting just a hint of hesitation in his voice. Did you know shes pregnant?
Yes, she gave us that information. The building accepts children, so thats not an obstacle. Is there anything else we should know about Miss Walker?
Mike winced, but he had to do it. Shes unemployed.
She put on her application that shes a teacher with the Newhall High School District
She is, but just until the end of the school year.
Does she have another position lined up?
Not that Im aware of.
Is there anything else that you think I should know? she asked.
No. I think Ive said enough.
Yes, I think you have Mr. Cameron. I appreciate your candor.
Glad to help, Miss Anderson.
Mike hung up the phone and couldnt help feeling like hed drop-kicked a kitten. It had been a splitsecond decision. He hadnt said anything that wasnt the truth. She didnt need to move out; he was doing this for her. His mouth pulled tight as he shook his head. No matter how he tried to whitewash it, he was a little surprised at how low hed sunk. Still, a little guilt was a small price to pay. He wasnt sorry hed sabotaged her.
Kelly carried another batch of boxes from her car into her bedroom, then went to the kitchen. The red light on her answering machine blinked twice. She pushed the button and after rewinding, a male voice came on. Kelly? If youre there, pick up the phone. Its Doug. Either youre not there, or youre not talking to me. Probably the latter. I dont blame you, but I need to speak with you. Since you wont return my calls, Im going to drop by. See you later.
Kelly groaned. Great. What else could go wrong?
Then she heard the second message. Miss Walker, this is Leigh Anderson. I wanted to let you know the apartment you looked at has been rented, and Im sorry to say there are no other vacancies. Give me a call if you have any questions.
The machine clicked off and Kelly slapped the ceramic tile counter. Double whammy.
Now she would have to hunt for another apartment. That would set her back, and she didnt have time to waste. She had to move, unpack and settle, and get a nursery ready for the baby before she was too far along in her pregnancy to do it.
And as for Dougshe did not want to see him, later or ever again in her lifetime.
She looked at her kitchen, the boxes stacked up and empty walls where her pictures had been. What am I going to do? she asked.
The answer came instantly. She would do what she always did. She would go talk to Mike. He was her friend, and no matter what he thought about her decisions, he would always stand by her.
That was what she would miss most when she moved.. She liked being able to talk to him. With a face like he had, what was not to like? But there was more to him than that or he wouldnt be her friend.
She slipped on her sneakers and walked across the driveway to his house. It was six oclock and still light out, but there was a chill in the evening air. In another month, it would be hot, and the baby would be bigger. Everyone said summer was the worst time to give birth. As far as she was concerned, her timing on that was the only thing that had gone right. School was out and she could resume teaching in September. She was sorry she wouldnt be at Stevenson, but she thought maybe a private school would hire her. She planned to submit applications in the next day or so.
She stood on Mikes brick porch and rang the bell. While she waited for him to answer, she straightened her floral maternity top over the matching stretch pants.
A second before Mike opened the door, a shadow on the beveled glass told her he was there. Then the flesh-and-blood man filled the doorway. Kellys heart skipped a little at the sight of him. The feeling was happening with more frequency, but she chalked it up to hormones. Pregnancy wreaked havoc on a womans body. Why couldnt she have a normal, physical reaction to a good-looking man? When her hormones settled down, so would the feeling.
Kelly, what are you doing here? Whats wrong?
What makes you think theres something wrong?
One of Mikes dark eyebrows lifted and there was a strange look on his face. If she didnt know better, she would have sworn he was expecting her.
You just look funny, he said.
That made sense. She felt funny, too. I just wanted to talk to you. May I come in?
Sure. He opened the door wider and stepped back to allow her inside.
Kelly loved his house. She knew he had hired a decorator, but his touch was there, too. The hardwood floor in the entryway where she stood, the oak-trimmed doorways around the kitchen straight ahead and the beige carpet in the living room to her left, he had insisted on those touches. There was a masculine air to the place mainly because of the lack of frills, flowers and froo-froo. It had a tangible solidness, like Mike. He was forthright and honest; he would never do anything shady or underhanded.
Have you eaten dinner yet? he asked.
She shook her head. Do you have an extra frozen dinner?
Yup. Hungry man size. Think you can handle it? One corner of his mouth lifted in a smile that was guaranteed to affect female hearts on the spot. Hers was no exception.
I think so. After all, Im eating for two.
She followed him into the kitchen and sat on one of the tall stools at the bar that separated the work area from the breakfast nook behind her.
Mike opened the freezer and pulled out a couple of dinners. Chicken and mashed potatoes all right? When she nodded, he read the directions and popped it into the microwave. What did you want to talk to me about?
They rented my apartment to someone else.
Really? he said, his back to her.
Yeah. Its not the only place in town, but two-bedroom units arent that easy to find in a security building that takes children and has an enclosed yard.
He punched some buttons, and the oven began to hum. He turned around. You look puzzled.
Theres a good reason for that. I dont understand what happened.
What do you mean?
When I looked at the apartment, Miss Anderson acted as if the place was already mine, and the background check was merely a formality. Today her manner was definitely cooler. Did she call you?
As a matter of fact, she did, he admitted.
What did she say?
She asked how long you had been my tenant and I told her. She said she knew about the baby.
Kelly nodded. I wanted to be up-front about that It didnt seem to be a problem.
Youre taking this too personally. They probably had more than one application. Id bet the other was from dinks.
She frowned. Thats not a very nice thing to say.
D.I.N.K.double income no kids.
Oh. She thought about that for a moment. Someone like that would be a better risk than a Q.I.B.O.W. Questionable income, baby on way. Maybe youre right.
Im sure I am. You want something to drink?
She nodded. I want a glass of wine.
He frowned. No alcohol for pregnant ladies.
I know that. I just said I wanted it. What have you got that I can have?
Mike turned away and looked in the refrigerator. I have milk, apple juice, soda or water.
Juice please, she said.
Kelly wondered if this was what it would feel like to be married. Eating dinner together, relating the events of the day, not being alone. It was nice. Mikes concern about her condition touched her, too, and a sense of wistfulness washed over her. To have someone to share things withthe babys movement, the results of her monthly doctor visits, heartburn, her fears about the birth, her fears about a roof over her head. But it was a fantasy.
At least for now. Someday she would find a man who would sweep her off her feet, and she would have all the love shed dreamed about. That goal was merely delayed, not unobtainable.
Mike set a glass of apple juice in front of her. He leaned his forearms on the cream-colored tiles and met her gaze. You know, Kel, you dont have to move.
Yes, I do. Its not fair that you be dragged into this situation.
Whether you like it or not, Im in it because Im your friend.
She put her hand on his arm. The little jolt she got from the contact with his warm skin surprised her. The slight flicker she saw in Mikes eyes made her wonder if hed felt something, too. She glanced down at her fingers on his forearm. Why had she never noticed before how tan he was compared to her? How wide and strong his wrists were? Must be that hormone thing again. Maybe it made a womans powers of observation more acute. Whatever the side effects, it would be best to ignore the sensation. She took her hand away and curled her fingers around her glass.
Mike, I dont want to argue with you. Ive made up my mind to move. Cant we just drop it?
He nodded. We can if youll promise not to make a hasty decision. Youve got a home as long as you want one. Dont do anything stupid.
Me? she said, pressing her palm to her chest in mock amazement. However can you say that? Just because Im pregnant
That sorry son of a bitch took advantage of you. Mike stood up straight and his dark eyes smoldered with anger.
Its not all his fault.
If he was any kind of man, he would never have pressed you under the circumstances. Good God, youd just buried your mother.
Dont forget I called him, she said.
Why are you defending him?
Im not. Im trying to be fair. She looked down into the golden liquid in her glass.
Theres something else, isnt there? What is it, Kelly?
She glanced up quickly. How do you always know?
Ive known you a long time. Tell me whats going on.
Dougs been calling me for the last couple weeks.
Mike tensed. What does he want?
I havent talked to him. Hes just left messages. I got another one today.
What did he say?
Hes coming over tonight.
Chapter Three (#ulink_64f380b5-3aee-5cf9-bcc1-d55970d7fa7c)
For Gods sake, Kelly, why didnt you say so before?
The microwave beeped loudly, and Mike took out the dinner. He pulled back the plastic and felt as hot as the steam escaping. He couldnt believe she had waited this long to tell him that the guy was harassing her.
As his anger grew, adrenaline pumped through him. He hadnt liked Doug the first time hed met him. After what hed done to Kelly, he promised himself if he ever saw the jerk again, he would make him wish hed never been born.
As if sensing his mood, Kelly shifted on the bar stool. I didnt tell you sooner because I hadnt planned to tell you at all. Forget it Ill handle Doug.
If theres anything left of him when I get through, youre welcome to it.
Kellys eyes widened. When did you develop these Neanderthal tendencies? This is a side of you Ive never seen before.
Mike wasnt sure himself why he felt this way. He hadnt wanted to deck a guy over a girl since high school. But the fact was Kelly was going through hell because of Doug Hammond and Mike wanted his pound of fleshor to pound Dougs flesh. He didnt much care which. When will he be here?
He didnt say. She took a sip of her juice.
Doesnt matter. Ill just hang around and take care of him.
Kelly put down the glass, and when she looked at him irritation was written all over her face.
This is my problem, Mike. I appreciate your friendship more than youll ever know, but its not a license to butt into my life. When he gets here, Ill listen to what he has to say, then Ill send him on his way.
Mike understood her wanting to do this on her own; that was the kind of woman Kelly was. He just couldnt get over the feeling that it would be like leaving a defenseless lamb to the big bad wolf.
Can I just be there when you see him? he asked.
No.
What if I promise not to say anything?
She snorted. Fat chance of that.
What if
No. You cant stay. Besides, dont you have a football meeting tonight?
He started to shake his head, then stopped when he realized she was right. Geez, with all this other stuff going on, I forgot. Its meet the coaches night. He folded his arms across his chest and looked at her. Ill just have to miss it.
You cant. This is when you take advantage of parental enthusiasm. Dean cant pull the volunteers out of the crowd the way you can.
Dean Thompson, his assistant coach, was a gifted tactician and terrific with the players. But Kelly was right. When it came to the parents, Mike was better at getting them to become involved. The program depended heavily on that. He couldnt miss the meeting.
Mike, dont worry about me. Im a big girl. I can take care of myself.
I dont like it, he grumbled, as he put the other dinner in the microwave. But I guess theres nothing I can do.
Youre sweet to worry about me.
He turned back to her. Ill tell you whats sweet. Remember that move Jim and I taught you before your very first date?
She grinned. Remember it? I got to use it that night. Do you remember who fixed me up with that octopus?
Everyones entitled to a minor error in judgment.
Minor?
He was here for the weekend. He was lonely. It was supposed to be dinner and a movie. How did I know he was going to come on to you? He looked at her. Just promise me one thing
What?
Before the jerk gets here, practice that move.
I will, she said, laughing.
The sound surrounded him and he grinned, surprised at how contagious her laughter was. As ticked off as hed been a minute before, he was sure no one but Kelly could have made him smile.
When Kelly had first found out about the baby, shed misplaced her smile for a while. Recently shed found it, and if Hammond did anything, to make her lose it again, Mike would hunt him down and take his pound of flesh. The man would never hurt Kelly again.
Kelly tensed when she heard the car pull up in front of her house. She knew the sound. It brought back painful memories of all the nights shed expected to hear it, then waited in vain for Doug to show up. She remembered the flimsy excuses shed believed because shed desperately wanted to. She would never forget the disillusionment of learning about his lies, his other women, after she found out she was going to have a baby.
There was nothing he could tell her now that she wanted to hear. She had nothing to say to him. Period. This should be a very short meeting. But she would feel a lot more confident if she could stop the butterflies in her stomach or the trembling in her hands.
She opened the door as he strode up the walkway. He smiled at her. Hello, Kelly.
Doug. She motioned him inside.
He had the lanky good looks of a male model in a pin-striped suit. The red tie he wore was perfectly knotted at the collar of his crisp white shirt. His sandy hair was slightly mussed, and his hazel eyes held an expression that said he was glad to see her. She didnt believe it
She frowned at him. What do you want?
Thats pretty cold, he said, raising an eyebrow.
The last time we spoke, you made it clear that you wanted nothing to do with the baby or me. I have no reason to think that the situations changed. So Id like to know what you want.
Doug looked sheepish. Im sorry about that, Kel
Dont call me that, she snapped.
All right. I just wanted you to know that Im sorry about the things I said. The situation caught me off guard and II suppose I sort of panicked.
You? Kelly shook her head at his smoothness. He was as cool as they came. She had found out the hard way how he could lie without batting an eye. Panicked?
Believe it or not, he said in that affable, self-effacing way that had charmed her once. You dont know what its like to hear that youre going to be a father.
Thats typical, Doug. Its always about you. Did you stop to think how I felt finding out I was going to be a mother?
Thats why Im here now.
Her eyes widened and she wanted to laugh in his face, or slap it. Im six months pregnant. Took you long enough. Her chest tightened with anger. During all that time did you think about what would happen to me? Whether or not this would affect my life, my job?
Has it?
You bet it has, buster. I dont have a job as of June.
His eyebrows pulled together and, if she didnt know better, she would have thought he was genuinely sorry.
Then its fortunate Im here.
Why?
Kelly, I want you to marry me. I want to be a father to our child.
Kellys jaw dropped. She didnt know what she had expected him to say, but it certainly wasnt this.
Her reaction was knee-jerk, and she should have put it exactly where Mike and her brother had taught her. Instead, she clasped her shaking hands together and tried to control her astonishment, then the surge of anger that followed.
I wouldnt marry you if you were the last man on earth.
There was no reaction on his face, no indication whether her words had hurt him or not. Think about this carefully. You just said youll be out of a job come June. How are you going to support yourself, let alone a kid?
A kid? The baby was just an impersonal, nuisance kid as far as he was concerned. She didnt want him anywhere near her child, not to mention raising him. Ill work it out. Alone, she added firmly.
If you marry me, I can take care of you both. Im up for a partnership in the law firm
I smell a rat, she said, her eyes narrowing. With time and distance, she had realized Doug never did anything for anyone else unless there was something in it for him. Besides, hed never said a word about loving her. If she hadnt been so upset, it would have been funny. Two proposals in two days. Must be some kind of record for a pregnant lady. Shed been tempted to take Mike up on his offer, but Dougs left her cold.
He looked down for a moment, then met her suspicious gaze. You know the firm is very conservative and traditional. I dont want to say that Im not concerned about my success. But thats not the reason I asked you
Stuff a sock in it, Doug. Of course thats the reason. She took a deep breath. Now I want you to listen, because Im only going to say this once. I should have known that a lawyer who would sleep with his client couldnt be trusted. Youre a liar and Id be a fool to ever trust you again. Theres nothing you could say that would persuade me to marry you.
.
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Teresa Southwick
Тип: электронная книга
Жанр: Современные любовные романы
Язык: на английском языке
Издательство: HarperCollins
Дата публикации: 16.04.2024
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О книге: I′M YOUR GROOMDEBUT AUTHORBABY ON THE WAYEveryone in town was talking about the pregnant and unmarried teacher. Kelly′s condition–not to mention swelling belly–were a source of good gossip and great concern. For her baby′s sake, Kelly knew escaping scandal meant finding an instant dad.Mike Cameron was not the father of Kelly′s child, though everyone thought he was. So he did the honorable thing and proposed marriage. Now she could have the family she′d always dreamed of. If only their marriage vows of love, honor and cherish were not just for convenience′s sake.Five irresistible heroes say «I DO» for a lifetime of love. I′M YOUR GROOM.