To A Macallister Born
To A Macallister Born
Joan Elliott Pickart
ANOTHER MACALLISTER BLESSING?He was just passing through town, when his life changed forever. Jack MacAllister, tried-and-true bachelor, suddenly found himself a little boy's #1 daddy pick. But the adorable tyke's single mom didn't seem as soldand Jack sensed she was keeping secrets. But something about Jennifer Mackane made him believe he could trust hercould even love herbut he'd learned never to trust a lady.Then he discovered that not all of Jennifer's secrets were old. One involved a baby, yet to be born.Jack's baby.Experience more laughter and love as the MacAllister family increases its fold!
Shed conceived Jacks child.
Jennifer sank back in the chair and splayed her hands on her flat stomach.
Jacks baby, her mind whispered. No, it was her baby. Her secret. She was not going to tell Jack about this child unless he came to her and asked her to marry him.
She wouldnt trap him into proposing to her, thus sentencing herself to a lifetime of wondering if he truly wished to be by her side.
If Jack went to California per his original plan, he would never, ever know that this child existed.
And the serious discussion shed scheduled for that evening? Oh, yes, theyd have that talk, but shed keep a tight rein on her emotions. Shed wait to hear what Jack had to say.
Waitwhile she hoped and prayed that hed ask her to be his wife.
Dear Reader,
Welcome to a spectacular month of great romances as we continue to celebrate Silhouettes 20th Anniversary all year long!
Beloved bestselling author Nora Roberts returns with Irish Rebel, a passionate sequel to her very first book, Irish Thoroughbred. Revisit the spirited Grant family as tempers flare, sparks fly and love ignites between the newest generation of Irish rebels!
Also featured this month is Christine Flynns poignant THATS MY BABY! story, The Baby Quilt, in which a disillusioned, high-powered attorney finds love and meaning in the arms of an innocent young mother.
Silhouette reader favorite Joan Elliott Pickart delights us with her secret baby story, To a MacAllister Born, adding to her heartwarming cross-line miniseries, THE BABY BET. And acclaimed author Ginna Gray delivers the first compelling story in her series, A FAMILY BOND, with A Man Apart, in which a wounded loner lawman is healed heart, body and soul by the nurturing touch of a beautiful, compassionate woman.
Rounding off the month are two more exciting ongoing miniseries. From longtime author Susan Mallery, we have a sizzling marriage-of-convenience story, The Sheiks Secret Bride, the third book in her DESERT ROGUES series. And Janis Reams Hudson once again shows her flair for Western themes and Native American heroes with The Price of Honor, a part of her miniseries, WILDERS OF WYATT COUNTY.
Its a terrific month of page-turning reading from Special Edition. Enjoy!
All the best,
Karen Taylor Richman
Senior Editor
To a MacAllister Born
Joan Elliott Pickart
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
For my daughter, Paige, my very own Tempe, Arizona, fire fighter
Im a proud mommy, Peep
Books by Joan Elliott Pickart
Silhouette Special Edition
* (#litres_trial_promo)Friends, Loversand Babies! #1011
* (#litres_trial_promo)The Father of Her Child #1025
(#litres_trial_promo)Texas Dawn #1100
(#litres_trial_promo)Texas Baby #1141
(#litres_trial_promo)Wife Most Wanted #1160
The Rancher and the Amnesiac Bride #1204
? (#litres_trial_promo)The Irresistible Mr. Sinclair #1256
? (#litres_trial_promo)The Most Eligible M.D. #1262
ManMercenaryMonarch #1303
* (#litres_trial_promo)To a MacAllister Born #1329
Silhouette Desire
* (#litres_trial_promo) Angels and Elves #961
Apache Dream Bride #999
(#litres_trial_promo)Texas Moon #1051
(#litres_trial_promo)Texas Glory #1088
Just My Joe #1202
? (#litres_trial_promo)Taming Tall, Dark Brandon #1223
Previously published under the pseudonym Robin Elliott
Silhouette Special Edition
Ranchers Heaven #909
Mother at Heart #968
Silhouette Intimate Moments
Gauntlet Run #206
Silhouette Desire
Call It Love #213
To Have It All #237
Picture of Love #261
Pennies in the Fountain #275
Dawns Gift #303
Brookes Chance #323
Betting Man #344
Silver Sands #362
Lost and Found #384
Out of the Cold #440
Sophies Attic #725
Not Just Another Perfect Wife #818
Havens Call #859
JOAN ELLIOTT PICKART
is the author of over seventy novels. When she isnt writing, she enjoys watching football, knitting, reading, gardening and attending craft shows on the town square. Joan has three all-grown-up daughters and a fantastic little grandson. In September of 1995, Joan traveled to China to adopt her fourth daughter, Autumn. Joan and Autumn have settled into their cozy cottage in a charming, small town in the high pine country of Arizona.
Contents
Chapter One (#ud6523812-732d-52e0-8cce-4617157fb07e)
Chapter Two (#u8d8d1e2b-dfae-5f59-b566-7e957670f7e2)
Chapter Three (#ufe9db341-fed6-5609-954b-5216dbc003e0)
Chapter Four (#ueef67e20-8cdc-545b-b2b0-31e3ba4d7708)
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)
Chapter Thirteen (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Fourteen (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Fifteen (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter One
Jennifer Mackane stretched leisurely, then snuggled deeper beneath the blankets on the bed with a sigh of contentment.
She wasnt scheduled to work today, or tonight, at Hamilton House, she mused, and would be able to spend the free hours with her precious Joey. Theyd straighten up around the house and run errands, then indulge in dinner at Joeys favorite fast-food restaurant.
Shed have the luxury of tucking a fresh-from-his-bath Joey into bed that night and reading him a story as he drifted off to sleep. Bliss. Sweet bliss.
A faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee reached Jennifer, and she knew the automatic timer on the machine had produced the hot, beckoning brew.
No, she thought. Shed stay in bed a while longer, be sinfully lazy. Then again, the coffee smelled so deliciously tempting.
Oh, who am I kidding? she said, laughing. That coffee is calling my name.
She threw back the blankets and left the bed, poking her feet into enormous yellow slippers that boasted the head of a smiling Big Bird.
Joey was so proud of those slippers hed given her for Christmas last year, she mused. Hed gone shopping with his Uncle Brandon and Uncle Ben, the outing producing the bizarre slippers as Joeys gift to his mom.
Jennifer had shot dagger-filled looks at Brandon Hamilton and Ben Rizzoli when shed opened her present, and had seen the merriment and mischief dancing in their dark eyes. But shed become accustomed to the pairs nonsense while the three of them had grown up together. Here in the pretty little town of Prescott, nestled high in the mountains a hundred miles above Phoenix, theyd enjoyed an idyllic childhood.
Jennifer thudded her way toward the kitchen as she smoothed her red flannel nightshirt down to her knees. Big Birds heads bobbed up and down with each step she took.
Joey would be checking to see that she was wearing these silly creations, she knew, despite the fact that it was nearly a year since hed given them to her.
In the large kitchen of the old, three-story Victorian house, Jennifer poured herself a mug of hot coffee, then opened the refrigerator to find the carton that would provide the splash of milk.
She hesitated and frowned, her gaze falling on the bridal bouquet on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. She added milk to the coffee, retrieved the bouquet, then settled at the kitchen table, staring at the lovely flowers as she took her first sip.
She could clearly recall the shock and dismay shed registered when the bouquet had come sailing through the air at Megan and Bens wedding reception yesterday and somehow landed in her hands. Shed stared at it in wide-eyed horror, as the other women in the assembled group cheered for her, telling her she was now officially destined to be the next bride.
No way, she had said, poking the flowers with one finger. Not a chance.
She had planned to quietly slide the bouquet behind the stack of wedding gifts on the table at the reception and forget it. But Joey had been jumping up and down with excitement, declaring his mom to be a great pass catcher, just like whomever he had said caught the football from some quarterback hed named. Joey had insisted on holding the touchdown bouquet all the way home.
Jennifer got to her feet, went to one of the cupboards and rummaged through it until she found a vase. She filled it halfway with water, then returned to the table and began to carefully dismantle the bouquet, sticking the flowers into the water.
They would now be just flowers in a vase, she decided, with no old wives tale connotations connected to them. Not that she actually believed in the whoever-caught-the-bouquet-is-the-next-bride theory, but why take unnecessary chances?
She had no intention of remarrying, and having the bridal bouquet take up residence in her refrigerator even overnight was long enough, thank you very much.
There, she said, admiring her work. Theyre flowers in a vase, nothing more. The spell is broken. End of story.
Hi, Mom, a sleepy Joey said, coming into the kitchen. He peered under the table at Jennifers feet.
Hello, sweetheart, Jennifer said, her heart warming at the sight of her sleep-rumpled, five-year-old son in his Rugrats pajamas. Hows my big boy this morning? Ready for some breakfast?
Guess so. Joey slid onto a chair opposite her, yawned, then frowned. Whatcha do to the flowers you caught?
They needed water to stay fresh so we could enjoy them, Jennifer said.
Oh. Well, you still get to be the next bride like everyone said. Can you have a chocolate wedding cake if you want to when youre the bride? Aunt Megan and Uncle Bens cake tasted kinda yucky. You should pick chocolate for yours.
Sweetheart, Jennifer said, Im not going to have a wedding cake because Im not getting married.
Yes, you are, Joey said, his voice rising. Everyone at the party said so after you caught the flowers. Youll be a bride like Aunt Megan was andwell, first you gotta find somebody to be the groom guy, then Ill have a daddy like Sammy. Thats how it works, Mom. It does.
Jennifer felt a chill sweep through her and tighten into a cold fist in her stomach.
Joey, she said gently, praying her voice was steady, youve never said you wanted a daddy. Were a team, you and me, the two of us. Were doing great together, dont you think?
Yeah, sure, Mom, but Joey shrugged. It would be nice to have a daddy like Sammy does. They do men stuff together.
Well, you domen stuff with Uncle Ben and Uncle Brandon, and even Uncle Taylor when he comes up from Phoenix. They take you fishing, camping, hikingall kinds of things.
Yes, but Joey sighed.
But what, sweetheart? Jennifer said, leaning toward him.
When Im done doing men stuff with Uncle Ben, and Uncle Brandon, and Uncle Taylor, I have to give them back. I dont get to keep them, Mom. I dont have a daddy all the time like Sammy does.
I see, Jennifer said softly, struggling against threatening tears. But you know thats because your daddy is in heaven with the angels, Joey. I cant change that, sweetheart.
You could be a bride like youre supposed to be cause you caught the flowers, Joey said, nearly yelling. All you need is a guy to wear a suit and tie and buy you a yellow ring like Uncle Ben got Aunt Megan. How come you wont do that, Mom?
Joey, I realize that you dont understand and that youre getting angry at me because you dont. When youre older, bigger, this will make sense to you.
Joey scowled and dropped his chin to his chest. No, it wont.
Jennifer stared at her son, her heart aching.
She had known, somewhere in the back of her mind, that this discussion would take place one day, she thought miserably.
When Joey was three years old, hed asked why he didnt have a daddy, but had readily accepted the explanation that his father was in heaven with the angels.
Now, at five years old, Joey was comparing his family to that of his best friend, Sammy, and deciding it came up very short.
Shed worked so hard at being both mother and father to her son, and was eternally grateful to Ben, Brandon and Taylor for stepping in as father figures for Joey whenever they could.
But now her little boy wanted his own daddy, just like Sammy had. His uncles just werent enough.
Oh, Joey, Im so sorry, Jennifer thought, blinking back tears. What he wanted, she would never give him. She could notwould notmarry again. All she could do was weather this emotional storm of Joeys and hope, pray, it would soon pass.
Added to that heartfelt prayer was the ongoing one that Joey would never learn the truth about his father. No one knew the true facts of her past with Joe Mackane, and, heaven help her, no one ever would.
Well, she said, forcing a cheerful tone into her voice, you must be a hungry boy. How would you like pancakes made in the shape of animals?
Joeys head popped up. Yeah. Cool. I want a horse and elephant and hippopotamus.
Jennifer laughed and got to her feet. A hippopotamus? Goodness, I dont know if Im that talented a pancake artist, my sweet, but Ill give it my best shot.
Joey slid off his chair. Ill pour my own milk into a glass. I need milk for my bones and teeth.
Indeed, you do, sir, Jennifer said, taking a bowl out of a cupboard. Youll grow up big and strong likelike your uncles.
And be a fine, upstanding man like your uncles, with no hint of the lack of morals and values of your father, she mentally tacked on, as she began to prepare the pancake batter.
Joey looked so much like herit was as though Joe had had nothing to do with the childs creation. Joey had her wavy, strawberry-blond hair and fair complexion. His eyes were a sparkling green, and his features resembled hers. Anyone could tell that he was her son.
No, there was no hint of Joe Mackane in Joey, thank God, and there never would be as she continued to teach him the important lessons of integrity and honesty. Ah, yes, honesty. That was definitely something Joe never possessed, nor knew the meaning of.
Joe had been killed in a construction accident a week before Joey was born. In heaven with the angels? Jennifer mused. No, not even close. He wouldnt have begun to qualify for admission. But that was something her son would never know.
After cleaning the kitchen after breakfast, during which shed received a passing grade for her pancake hippopotamus, Jennifer showered and dressed in jeans and a green sweater that matched her eyes.
While Joey was putting away scattered toys in his room, Jennifer opened the drapes on the windows in the living room, then frowned.
There was a man standing on the sidewalk in front of the house. He was tall, extremely handsome, with dark, auburn hair, rugged features, wide shoulders, and long, muscular jeans-clad legs. His hands were shoved into his jacket pockets, and he was staring at the top of the house, apparently unaware of her sudden appearance in the window.
What was he doing there? Jennifer wondered. Who was he? If he was a thief casing the place, he wasnt being very subtle about it.
All right, he had two minutes to be on his way, or she was going to march out there and confront him.
Jennifer narrowed her eyes.
Maybe that was dumb. Friendly, small-town Prescott or not, it was probably foolish to demand an explanation from a perfect stranger.
Perfect? Well, on a score of one to ten, the man was an eleven as far as looks and build wentbut that was beside the point. She was a woman alone with a small, vulnerable boy to protect.
No, shed give it another minute, then call Sheriff Montana and tell him about the stranger who was stilldarn himscrutinizing her home, her safe haven. He would handle this in the proper manner.
Okay, buddy, she thought, its now one minute and counting.
Jennifers breath caught as her gaze connected with the strangers. He smiled, sketched a salute, then spun around and walked down the sidewalk.
A frisson of heat coursed through her and settled low in her body. She wrapped her hands around her elbows, then moved to the edge of the window, watching until the man disappeared from view.
Dear heaven, she thought, that smile of his should be registered as a lethal weapon, along with the loose-limbed, oh-so-sexy way he walked.
It had been many years since shed had a sensual response to a member of the opposite sex. It was unsettling, to say the least, and very unwelcome.
It was also borderline crazy. Shed had a physical reaction to a man she didnt even know, and who might very well be a thief contemplating breaking into her house to steal her worldly goods, such as they were.
What on earth was the matter with her? she thought, shaking her head. On that horrifying day of Joes funeral, when shed learned the truths that had shattered her world, shed begun the process of building a wall around herself.
Never again, she had vowed, would a man awaken her sexuality. Never again would a man touch her heart or her body. Never again would she love someone who was capable of destroying her.
Mom, Joey yelled, running into the room, I found my favorite dinosaur. It was under my bed. Cool, huh?
Jennifer drew a steadying breath, then turned to smile at her son.
Very cool, she said. Oh, its very dusty, too. Lets wash it off in the kitchen sink. Theres nothing worse than a dusty dinosaur.
That evening, Jennifer settled onto the sofa in the living room in front of the crackling fire in the hearth, and picked up the mystery novel she was in the process of reading. Joey was fast asleep, having nodded off during the tale of Peter Pan.
She tucked her legs up close to her on the puffy cushion, spread an afghan she had knitted across her lap, and opened the book to the page that boasted a brightly colored bookmark Joey had made her for Mothers Day.
After reading one sentence, the image of the stranger who had stood in front of her house that morning superimposed itself over the words on the page.
Darn you, she said, snapping the book closed. Would you just go away and leave me alone?
She sighed and shook her head as she set the book next to her, then stared into the leaping flames of the fire.
The anticipated, carefree day with Joey had been a disaster. Everywhere the two of them had gone, she found herself looking for that man, while at the same time registering excitement and fear.
The stranger had haunted her through the seemingly endless hours of the day. And with the thoughts of him came the disturbing remembrance of the rush of heated desire that had suffused her when hed smiled.
Oh-h-h, Im driving myself crazy, Jennifer said aloud, throwing up her hands.
Okay, enough of this, she admonished herself. She was getting a grip right now. Shed analyze this bizarre behavior of hers, figure out why she was acting so unlike her norm, then be done with it.
Fine, she said, tapping one fingertip against her chin. Waitaminute. Of course. Thats it.
She was the victim of a series of events that had taken place in rapid succession.
First, shed attended the beautiful wedding of her dear friends, Ben and Megan, who were obviously deeply in love.
While she had neither the intention nor the desire to remarry, the romantic event had no doubt poked a bit at her subconscious and emphasized the lack of a special man in her lifeeven though she didnt want one
Second, shed caught the wedding bouquet, and had been surrounded by people declaring over and over that she would soon fall in love and be the next bride.
Third, Joey had expressed his sadness over not having a father, which had made her heart ache for her son.
If one added up all those events that centered on romance, love, a husband, a daddy that Joey wouldnt have to give backwell, it was no wonder shed overreacted the very next time a handsome man directed a smile at her.
Thank goodness, shed figured it out. She felt so much better. It was amazing what a little inner dialogue could do to get a person squared away.
With a decisive nod, Jennifer picked up the book, found her place on the marked page and began to read.
Just before four oclock the next afternoon, Jennifer entered Hamilton House, the hotel where she was manager of the dining room.
The beautiful building had been completely restored by her childhood friend Brandon Hamilton, after hed dropped out of the fast lane in New York and returned to his roots in Prescott.
The large lobby was exquisite, transporting a person back to the turn of the 19th century. The Victorian furnishings, the original cabbage-rose carpeting, the gleaming piano by the front windowseverything was perfect.
Along the far wall was a simulated old-fashioned, cobblestone street, complete with lampposts to light the way. Open-fronted specialty shops beckoned to be explored.
One of the shops, Sleeping Beauty, offered feminine apparel and luscious bath accessories. The store was a smaller version of the one in Phoenix that was owned by Taylor Sinclairs wife, Janice.
Jennifer waved at Ryan, who was on duty behind the reception desk, then headed down the hallway that led to the dining room.
For the next hour, Jennifer was busy as she checked the reservation book for the evening ahead, spoke with the dinner and pastry chefs, reviewed and approved an order the wine steward wished to place, and conferred with the manager of housekeeping regarding the condition of the high-quality, linen tablecloths and napkins that were used in the dining room.
At five oclock she was at her post behind the podium by the doors, ready to welcome the first guests arriving for dinner.
The flow of patrons moving in and out kept her bustling back and forth as she sat the guests at their tables and presented them with oversize menus.
A little after seven oclock, Jennifer returned to the podium yet again, then smiled automatically as the doors to the dining room opened.
And then she stopped breathing.
Her smile disappeared, her eyes widened and her heart began to beat in a wild tattoo.
It was him, she thought frantically. The man. He was now beyond magnificent, in a dark blue sport coat over a white shirt and blue tie, and gray slacks. But it was most definitely him.
The stranger who had stood on the sidewalk in front of her house and might very well have decided on the best method to break in.
The man who had smiled at her, causing a desire to swirl within her, and who had haunted her thoughts ever since.
Dear heaven, what was he doing here? Had he followed her? Was she the reason he had studied her house? Was she being stalked by a raving lunatic?
Jennifer looked quickly around the room. What should she do? Scream at the top of her lungs? Grab the receiver to the telephone on the podium and call Sheriff Montana?
No, no, she had to calm down. She was surrounded by people, was safefor the moment, at least. Shed just bluff her way through this until she could formulate a sensible plan.
Good evening, she said to the man, unable to produce even the smallest smile. May I help you?
Jack MacAllister walked slowly toward the podium, his gaze riveted on the woman who had spoken to him.
It was her, he thought incredulously. The beautiful lady in the window of the intriguing Victorian house.
The woman who had not been far from his mental vision ever since hed seen her yesterday morning as hed stood on the sidewalk in front of her home.
She was even more lovely up close. Her eyes were greenincredibly green, and her hair was a silken tumble of strawberry-blond waves to just above her shoulders. Her features were delicate, her lips made for kissing. What he could see of the pale green dress she was wearing gave hint of lush breasts beneath the soft material.
And for some unknown reason, she was staring at him as though she expected him to leap over the podium and strangle her with his bare hands.
All he had done was walk into the dining room of the hotel, but, heaven only knew why, he was scaring this breathtaking feminine creature to death.
Hed never caused that kind of reaction in a woman before.
Good evening, he said, stopping in front of the podium and producing his best, hundred-watt smile. I apologize if I startled you when I opened the doors.
Startled me? she said, more in the form of a squeak.
Well, yesI mean, you look ratherfright-ened.
Frightened? She splayed one hand on her breasts. Me?
Look, Jack said, frowning as he extended one hand toward her, I dont know what I did to
She took a step backward. Dont come any closer. I might appear frightened, but Im not. No, sir, not one little bit. Im wise to you, mister. I have a great many friends in this town, including the sheriff, and youll never get away with itnot in a million years.
Huh?
She glanced quickly around the room. Justjust She flapped one hand at him. Shuffle off to Buffalo. Get out of Dodge. Give up on whatever your diabolical scheme is before you end up in the clink.
Huh? Jack said again, totally confused.
Hey, there you are, a deep voice said.
Brandon Jack and the woman said in unison.
Brandon Hamilton strode to the podium. Jennifer, Id like you to meet Jack MacAllister, a good buddy of mine. Jack, this lovely lady and I have been friends since before we could walk and talk. This is Jennifer Mackane.
Its a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Mackane, Jack said, grinning.
Chapter Two
Before Jennifer was forced to respond to Jack MacAllisters greeting, the dining room doors once again opened.
When she saw Brandons wife, Andrea, and his great-aunts, twin sisters Prudence and Charity, enter the room, she nearly flung herself at them for a group hug.
Hi, she said weakly, then snatched up a pile of menus. Your table is ready. Lets go. She shook her head slightly. I mean, would you follow me, please?
Rushing from behind the podium, she bumped smack-dab into Jack, and the menus went flying in all directions.
Oh, Im terribly sorry, Mr. MacAllister, Jennifer said, not looking directly at him. My, my, clumsy me. Ill just pick these up andBrandon, you have the corner table by the windows. Ill be with you in just a second.
Jennifer squatted to collect the scattered menus, only to have Jack hunker down next to her and retrieve two of them.
Ill give you a hand, he said.
Jennifers head snapped up, and she found herself only inches from Jack. He was looking directly at her, a small smile on his lips.
Chocolate fudge sauce, she thought. That was the color of Jack MacAllisters eyes. Delicious, chocolate fudge sauce. Good grief, he was handsomeso ruggedly male, as though his features had been chiseled from rough stone.
There were tiny lines by his eyes, and she guessed he was maybe thirty-five or thirty-six. His hair was thick, an auburn shade reminding her of a glossy Irish setter.
His nose was straight, his jaw square, his lips masculine but soft, as though waiting for a kiss.
Jennifer, get a grip, she ordered herself, averting her eyes from Jacks. There was that heat again, that damnable heat, swirling low within her, pulsing, causing a warm flush to stain her cheeks.
Jennifer stood, clutching the menus to her chest. Jack rose and offered two more to her.
Thank you, she said, nearly snatching them out of his hand. Brandon, why are you still here? I thought you were going over to your table.
We will, sweetie pie, Aunt Charity said, just as soon as we figure out what in the blue blazes is the matter with you.
Yes, dear, Aunt Prudence said. You do seem a teeny bit flustered this evening. Is something wrong?
Jennifer looked at the elderly aunts. Although they were twins, their mirror image was the only similar thing about them.
Aunt Prudence was wearing a sedate gray dress with a high neck and long sleeves. Aunt Charity was decked out in yards of royal blue taffeta, the dress reminiscent of a turn-of-the-19th-century dance hall costume.
Andrea was standing next to tall, dark and handsome Brandon. Her maternity dress was peach, which accentuated her lovely, silky dark hair. She had an expression of concern on her pretty face.
Im fine, Jennifer said, producing a passable smile. I just overreacted to something I shouldnt have overreacted to, thats all. My imagination got the better of me andIm fine now.
Hold it, Jack said, snapping his fingers. The lightbulb just went on over my head. You saw me on the sidewalk in front of your house yesterday morning. Staring at your home. Casing the place, one might think. Am I getting this straight? Then I showed up here, and that scared the bejesus out of you. Right?
Jennifer lifted her chin. Thats correct, Mr. MacAllister. Your behavior unsettled me. I apologize for She frowned. No, I dont. I had just cause to question your intentions.
You betcha, Aunt Charity said. There was a stranger gawking at your house, for mercys sake. That would shake up any single, unmarried, unattached, not-even-dating-anyone woman who has a little boy to protect.
Thank you for sharing, Aunt Charity, Jack said, smiling at her.
Just stating the facts, hotshot, Aunt Charity said, obviously pleased with herself.
Jennifer closed her eyes for a moment and squeezed the bridge of her nose as she drew a deep breath and let it out slowly. Then she raised her head and forced a smile into place.
Welcome to the dining room of Hamilton House, she said, looking at a spot above the assembled group. May I show you to your table?
Jack chuckled. Why certainly, Ms. Mackane. Do lead on.
Call her Jennifer, Aunt Charity said. Shes a member of our family, and so are you now, Jack. Jennifer, call JackJack.
Thats Jack MacAllister, he said, grinning at Jennifer. Not Jack the Ripper.
Mmm, she said, glaring at him.
Jennifer marched across the room to the designated table. When the others joined her, she shoved the stack of menus at Brandon, who grabbed them before they fell to the floor again.
Enjoy your dinner, Jennifer said, then hurried away.
Everyone settled into their chairs, and Brandon passed out the menus.
MacAllister, Brandon said, laughing, youve only been in town a couple of days and youve already caused trouble. New York City is probably celebrating your permanent departure, and the citizens of Ventura, California, are shaking in their shorts.
Hey, Im innocent, Jack said. All I was doing was admiring a dynamite example of historical architecturewhich is badly in need of some tender lovin care, by the way. I didnt intend to shake up the lovely Jennifer. She sure has a temper to go along with that red hair of hers.
Shes a handful, all right, Aunt Charity said, peering at her menu. Has been ever since she was a little girl. It would take a very special man to be a match for our Jennifer.
And a father for Joey, Aunt Prudence said.
I assume Jennifer is divorced, Jack said.
No, dear, Aunt Prudence said. Shes a widow. Her Joe was killed in a construction accident a week before Joey was born. Jennifer returned to Prescott to raise her son. Her parents relocated to Phoenix shortly thereafter due to Jennifers mother having severe arthritis. Jennifer is living in their family home.
Its a lovely house, Andrea said, but its an awful lot for Jennifer to keep up, Im afraid.
I see, Jack said slowly. How old is Joey?
Five, Aunt Charity said. Hes cute as a button. Looks just like his mama.
Jack frowned. Thats a good many years to mourn a man, no matter how great he might have been. Arent there any eligible bachelors in this town?
Oodles, Aunt Charity said. Jennifer seems determined never to remarry. Heaven knows, weve done our darndest to fix her up with the cream of the crop around here. She paused. Maybe we should leap into action again, Pru. After all, Jennifer did catch Megans bouquet at the wedding.
Indeed, she did, Pru said, smiling.
Oh, man, here we go again, Brandon said, chuckling. Poor Jennifer.
Sounds to me like the lady knows her own mind, Jack said. She likes being single. End of story. The same holds true of me. All the matchmaking in the world wouldnt get me to change my stand on the issue. Im a bachelor and intend to remain one.
Wanna bet, big boy? Aunt Charity said, leaning toward him.
Youd better shut up, MacAllister, Brandon said, shaking his head. Aunt Charity and Aunt Pru are pros at this matchmaking bit. I was a confirmed bachelor, too, remember?
And so was Ben, Andrea said, smiling. As well as Taylor.
Yep, Brandon said, nodding. And now were all married. Dont get too mouthy on the issue, Jack. You never know what the future holds.
I know what it holds for me on the subject of marriage, Jack said. It aint gonna happen.
Yes, dear, Aunt Pru said, patting his hand. We hear you.
Ah, how the mighty will fall, Andrea said, smiling. You did tell us the fascinating tale of the baby bet business that took place within the MacAllister clan, Jack. Your cousin, Forrest, was the reigning champion for eonsthen kaboom, he was dethroned, so to speak.
Yep, Brandon said. Thats how the story went. The same could hold true for the remaining eligible males in a bachelor bet. Look at how many of us have taken the fall. He glanced quickly at Andrea. And very happily so, my sweet.
Nice save, Hamilton, Andrea said, laughing.
Ill be pleased to take your money in a bachelor bet, Brandon. Jack leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest. So would my younger brother, Richard, I imagine. My sister is single, too, if you want to add bachelorettes to the soup.
I want a piece of this action, Aunt Charity said, rubbing her hands together.
I do believe, Andrea said thoughtfully, that our new sheriff, Cable Montana, would be in the camp with you and your brother, Jack.
The numbers grow, Jack said, nodding. There are simply men in this world who have no intention of marryingever.
I know, Brandon said, grinning at Jack. I was one of them.
Jack flattened his hands on the table and leaned toward Brandon.
The difference between us, buddy, Jack said, is that Ill never change my stand on the issue.
Yes, dear, Aunt Prudence said, smiling sweetly. So you said.
Jack chuckled, sat back again and shook his head.
Youre all smiling like Cheshire cats, he said. You obviously believe Im full of hot air. Oh, easy pickings, thats what you are. Money in my pocket. How long before I can collect this bachelor bet? Do I have to be a hundred and two and still single before you pay up?
Well work out the details of that part of the bachelor bet later, big boy, Aunt Charity said. Here comes our waitress. Lets eat. Im starving to death while Im sitting here.
So are we, Andrea said, patting her protruding stomach. Baby Hamilton is doing gymnastics to let me know shes hungry.
She? She? Brandon said, raising his eyebrows. Have you finally accepted the fact that Im right? That were having a girl? A daughter?
Sure, she has, Jack said. I told you that when Forrest finally lost the baby bet, the baton was passed to the daddy-to-be. The fathers have been right every time since. If you say its a girl, Brandon, then its a girl. Your wife is a smart lady, and realized that the baby bet has proven itself. Youre having a girl.
And smart person that I am, Andrea said, Im putting my money on your falling in love and losing the bachelor bet, Jack.
Over the next hour, Jennifer carried out her hostess duties by rote.
She was furious at herself. Shed behaved like an idiot in front of Brandons friend Jack MacAllister. Granted, she had just cause to have been frightened of Jack.
But then? Oh, good grief. Had she dismissed the incident as a misunderstanding, regained her composure and performed in a professional manner?
Oh, no, not her. Shed been caught up in a mish-mash of lingering anger, along with acute feminine awareness of Jacks blatant masculinity. Shed turned into Ms. Fumble Fingers, dropping the menus, then added Shrew-of-the-Year to her titles while showing the group to their table.
Jennifer stepped behind the podium and stared at the reservation book, not really seeing the schedule of diners yet to arrive.
Even now, she thought, Jack MacAllister seemed to be somehow reaching out and touching her from way across the room. He was just sothere, and just somale, and just so
Heat feathered down her back, then wove into her to pulse low in her body. She shook her head in self-disgust, then looked at Jack from beneath her lashes.
Why? she wondered frantically. Why did that man have such a powerful and unsettling impact on her? He was just an ordinary man, for Petes sake.
Well, no, that wasnt entirely true. Shed already conceded that Jack was an eleven on a scale of one to ten. He was so ruggedly handsome, so perfectly proportioned, and that thick, dark auburn hair of his was just begging to have feminine fingers sift through it.
And his eyes? Oh, those chocolate fudge sauce eyes mesmerized her and made it difficult to breathe.
Jennifer, stop it, she ordered herself, shifting her gaze back to the book. She was getting a gripright now. All she had to do was bid Jack a pleasant goodbye as he left the dining room, and that would be that. Shed never see him again.
She frowned.
Wait a minute. Was he a guest at Hamilton House? If so, how long would he be staying in Prescott? Would he be popping into the dining room for dinner night after night? It stood to reason hed be registered at his friends hotel, but for how many days?
It didnt matter, she thought, lifting her chin. Shed been thrown off-kilter by Jack MacAllister for reasons she couldnt begin to fathom. But she was on full-alert now, her protective walls firmly in place. She was hereby immune to the spell-weaving Mr. MacAllister, even if he smiled that knock-emdead smile of his.
And the minute she got home tonight she was throwing away the flowers from Megans bridal bouquet. Unsuperstitious or not, she wasnt taking any more chances.
Very good. She was back in control. Everything was fine. Thank heavens all of this ridiculous nonsense was at an end.
Jack listened absently as Aunt Charity related a tale of Brandon, Ben, Taylor and Jennifers mischievous deeds when they were children growing up together in Prescott.
Ah, here we go, he thought. Some people had just entered the dining room, which meantyes, there it wasJennifers smile. It lit up her face and caused those marvelous green eyes of hers to sparkle to the point where he was dazzled from across the room.
Hed watched her move through the tables with elegant, natural grace. She was femininity personified, and the heat throbbing low in his body told him that he was very aware of that fact, both mentally and physically. The fascinating Ms. Mackane was turning him inside out.
Which didnt make one bit of sense.
Jennifer was the type of woman he steered clear of, big time. She was, as the saying went, encumberedwith a five-year-old son, a home, a life-style that virtually shouted that the missing ingredients were a husband and father. No way. That was not his scene, not even close.
Hed also learned that Jennifer wasnt seeing anyone, wasnt into the singles dating scene. She did not, therefore, know how to play the no-strings, no-commitment game.
Jennifer didnt wish to remarry, which was a point in her favor. A shaky point. Hed heard that bit before, but when a guy came along who collected a hefty paycheck, lo and behold, how quickly that tune could change.
Nope, he wanted no part of the lovely Jennifer. She was more than a pleasure to look at, was feisty and funny, and dynamite when she got her temper in a roar, but he would cut a wide path around her during the remainder of his stay in Prescott.
Jack watched as Jennifer led a couple to a small table in the center of the room. The man spoke to her, and Jennifer laughed as she handed the pair their menus.
A flash of heat rocketed through him as he heard the lilting sound of Jennifers laughter. He shifted slightly in his chair and frowned.
Damn, he thought. Jennifer was pushing his libido buttons again. Why was she capable of doing that?
He controlled his actions and reactions toward women. He set the tempo, called the shots, and exited stage left at the first hint of possessiveness on the part of the woman in question.
He treated women with respect, showed them a good time, but he didnt particularly trust them.
He sure didnt know why Jennifer Mackane was able to hang him out to dry, but hed had enough of it. She was upsetting his peace of mind and driving his raging body over the edge.
Why the hell was this happening to him?
Right, Jack? Brandon said, snapping Jack back to attention.
What? Jack said. Oh, sorry. I was off somewhere, I guess.
Shes thirty-three, Aunt Charity said, but she looks younger, dont you think?
Who? Jack said, an expression of pure innocence on his face.
Give it up, hotshot, Aunt Charity said. Ive been sitting here watching you watching Jennifer through this entire meal.
Me? Jack said, raising his eyebrows. Well, I may have glanced at her a time or two, but theres no harm in looking at the scenery, Aunt Charity.
Thats true, dear, Aunt Prudence said, but you need to do more than look at our Jennifer. You should, as the gentleman Im certain you are, speak with Jennifer privately and sincerely apologize for frightening her while you studied her home.
I thoroughly agree, Andrea said decisively.
Buy her some candy from the snazzy shop in the lobby, Aunt Charity said, then paused. On second thought, buy me some, too. I love the stuff.
Hey, I didnt scare Jennifer intentionally, Jack said. It was a simple misunderstanding, thats all.
Which needs to be put to rest properly, Aunt Prudence said.
Youre dead meat, buddy, Brandon said, smiling. Dont argue the point any further, because youd be wasting your breath. Apologize to Jennifer when you get the chance, and be done with it.
Mmm, Jack said, glaring at Brandon.
What I was saying to you when you were daydreaming, Brandon went on, is that youre going to design our house while youre in Prescott. I was bringing the aunts up to date on that.
Oh. Sure. Right, Jack said, nodding. Thats what Im going to do, fantastic architect that I am. Ill have those plans to you and Andrea before I head to Ventura for the MacAllister reunion. Man, Christmas is going to be a zoo with the whole clan together.
It sounds like fun, Andrea said.
I think the kids outnumber the adults by now, Jack said. The MacAllisters are into having babies, thats for sure. Ill have to learn how to talk to munchkin-type people, since Im going to be part of the MacAllister architectural firm in Ventura. No more New York City rat race and brutal winters. Maybe Ill even learn how to surf.
You did the smart thing by leaving New York, Brandon said. Ive never been sorry I dropped out of the fast lane. He smiled warmly at Andrea. Coming home to Prescott was the best thing I ever did.
Thank you, love, Andrea said, matching his smile.
Jennifers hair is naturally curly, Aunt Charity said. No fancy perms or globby makeup for our girl.
Aunt Charity, would you cut it out? Jack said. Im not interested in all the little details about your Jennifer. She has an interesting house that Id love to do some restoration work on, and thats it. Period.
Im just chatting, Aunt Charity said, batting her eyelashes at him.
Jack shook his head and laughed.
Maybe flowers would be a better gift of apology for Jennifer, Aunt Prudence said, pressing one fingertip to her chin. Mmm. No, the chocolates are best, because Jennifer has fresh flowers at the moment. She caught the bridal bouquet at Megan and Bens wedding.
So you said, Jack said, rolling his eyes heavenward. Which means Jennifer is to be the next bride and blah, blah, blah. I hope shell be very happy with whatever guy she snags.
Thats the problem, Aunt Charity said. We cant get Jennifer into snagging mode. Been working on that for years.
So, its settled, then? Aunt Prudence said, leaning toward Jack. Youll purchase some dainty chocolates for Jennifer?
Jack raised both hands in a gesture of defeat. Yes, Ill do it. Ill buy the bribe and humbly apologize to Ms. Mackane. Can we change the subject now?
Yep, Aunt Charity said. Im ready for a sinful dessert. Bring it on.
The dining room at Hamilton House closed at eleven oclock, then preparations were made for breakfast the next morning.
Just before midnight, Jennifer turned off the lights, locked the doors to the dining room, then walked along the hallway to the quiet lobby of the hotel.
She waved goodbye to the clerk on duty behind the registration desk, then headed toward the front doors, buttoning her coat as she went.
As she passed one of the high-back chairs, a figure rose, startling her and causing her to gasp and stumble a bit.
Im sorry, Jack said. I didnt mean to frighten you.
Jennifer frowned. Oh? You seem to be making it your lifes work as far as I can tell.
Jack closed the distance between them and extended a gold foil covered box toward Jennifer.
My peace offering, he said, smiling. A token of sincere apology for upsetting you by staring at your house. Sweets for the sweet, and all that.
Jennifer looked at the box, Jacks face, the box, then narrowed her eyes as she met Jacks gaze again.
Aunt Pru and Aunt Charity put you up to this, didnt they? she said.
Well Jack said slowly.
Jennifer sighed and took the offered box of chocolates. All right. So be it. I accept your apology, and the whole business is forgotten. You didnt have to stay up until midnight to do this.
Jack shrugged. Im a night owl. He paused. May I walk you to your car? What? he thought incredulously. Where did that come from? His intention had been to hand over the dumb candy, then head to his room and the soft bed that was waiting for him.
Jennifer laughed, and a bolt of heat shot through his body, causing him to frown at his now-familiar reaction to the lilting sound.
You really dont want to volunteer to walk me to my car, MrJack, Jennifer said. Its parked in the driveway at my house. Thank you for the candy. My son, Joey, and I will enjoy it. Good night.
Wait a minute, Jack said, as Jennifer started to move around him. How are you getting home if you didnt drive to work?
I walked. Since youre so familiar with the location of my house, you know its only a few blocks away, and the weather is surprisingly mild for mid-November in Prescott. Jennifer shrugged. So, I walked.
Are you nuts? Jack said, his voice rising. You cant stroll along the sidewalk at midnight. Youll get mugged before you go ten feet.
I certainly will not, Jennifer said, matching his volume. This is Prescott, Arizona, notwherever it is youre from.
New York City, and I dont care if this is cute little Prescott. Youve got no business walking home alone at this hour.
I do it all the time.
Well, youre not doing it tonight, Jack said, taking her elbow. Lets go.
Jennifer jerked her arm free of Jacks grasp.
You are, without a doubt, one of the pushiest, rudest men I have ever met, she said. You may be Brandons friend, but that doesnt mean that I have to like youwhich I dont. Good night, Mr. MacAllister.
Jennifer marched toward the front doors of the hotel. Jack fell in step beside her, causing her to stop as she placed one hand on the door latch.
Now what? she said.
Im going for a midnight walk, thats all, Jack said, smiling at her. If I happen to meander in the direction of your housesue me.
Youre really exasperating, do you know that? Jennifer said. Fine. Whatever. Im not wasting any more of my time arguing with you. Your death, however, will not be on my conscience.
What death? I thought you said it was safe out there on the streets.
Oh, it is. However, youre not even wearing the sport coat you had on at dinner. This is not shirtsleeve weather. If you get pneumonia and croak, it will serve you right.
Jack chuckled. A shiver slithered down Jennifers back as she heard the sexy, male rumble.
I dont suppose, he said, that youd wait while I went to my room for a jacket, would you?
Not a chance.
Didnt think so.
End of story, Jennifer said, lifting her chin. Goodbye.
Jennifer pushed open one of the doors and left the hotel.
Jack followed right behind her.
Chapter Three
The night was clear, crisp and incredibly quiet.
A million stars twinkled in the black-velvet sky, creating a silvery beacon to show the way as Jennifer and Jack turned the corner and left the lights of downtown Prescott behind.
Jack shoved his hands into his trouser pockets and hunched his shoulders against the chill as he matched Jennifers long-legged stride along the sidewalk.
He was out of his tiny mind, he thought, mentally shaking his head. He probably would catch pneumonia and croak, which would be his just desserts for this ridiculous performance.
There he was, slowly freezing to death, as he escorted a womanone who didnt wish to be escorted home at midnight. Yep, he was definitely certifiably insane.
Butwell, what could he say? A foreign sense of protectiveness had consumed him when Jennifer had announced she was about to walk home alone. There was no way he could just stand in the warmth of the hotel lobby and watch her set out on her own.
Oh, man, he was cold. He needed to do something to shift his attention from the fact that the blood was freezing in his veins. So, MacAllister, talk to Jennifer.
Well, here we are, he said.
Mmm, Jennifer said.
Sure is quiet.
Mmm.
Im used to New York, you know, the city that never sleeps.
Mmm, Jennifer said again.
Jack sighed in defeat and trudged on.
Jennifer slid a glance at Jack, then looked quickly back down at her feet. She was being rude, she knew, by refusing to engage in the simplest conversation. But she just couldnt chatter like a magpie. Not yet. Not until she regained at least a modicum of control over her raging emotions.
She was acutely awareagainthat Jacks powerful male presence was causing heat to thrum within her despite the chill of the night.
But something more unsettling her now. When shed realized that Jack intended to see her safely to her door even though he didnt have a jacket to wear, shed had to struggle against very unwelcome tears.
Dear heaven, how long had it beenif eversince shed felt protected and watched over by a man?
How long had it beenif eversince she had been made to feel special and important due to the actions of a man?
How long had it beenif eversince shed been able to relax and just be, because someone else had stepped in and taken charge?
Jacks stubborn insistence on walking her safely home had touched a place deep within her, and shed been nearly overwhelmed by the emotions that gesture had evoked.
Oh, Jennifer, stop, she ordered herself.
Jack MacAllister wasnt Prince Charming riding to the rescue of a damsel in distress. He was a smooth operator who was accustomed to having his way with women, a man who rarely heard no, she figured, from a member of the opposite sex.
They had engaged in a battle of wills of sorts, on the subject of her going home alone, and Jack obviously couldnt deal with losing the war. So there he was, freezing his tush off in order to proclaim himself the victor. What a dunce.
Cold? Jennifer said, glancing over at Jack.
He chuckled. Youd better believe it. This was a pretty dumb thing to do, but my big-city instincts kicked in andWell, I was obviously wrong. This town is buttoned down so tight, we havent even seen a stray dog.
Youre admitting that I was right? Jennifer said, surprise evident in her voice.
Yep.
Oh. She smiled. Fancy that.
What did you think? That I was on a big macho trip here? Its hard to be a hero when there arent any dragons to slay. Jack laughed. What I am is a six-foot popsicle.
Jennifer stopped walking, and Jack skidded to a halt.
Jack, this is silly, she said, smiling. Why dont you turn around and head back to the hotel. Jog or something to get there as quickly as possible. I appreciate your gentlemanly gesture here, but as you can see, it really isnt necessary.
Hey, were almost to your house, he said, matching her smile. A jacket of Joeys obviously wouldnt fit me, but if I beg, maybe youll loan me a blanket for my return journey in the wilds.
Id be happy to.
Jack nodded as he continued to look directly into Jennifers eyes, now clearly visible in the silvery glow of the stars.
Neither of them moved. They hardly breathed. Time lost meaning. Heat began to curl and swirl within them, gaining force, pulsing low.
A sudden chill coursed through Jennifer, a wave of fear, of knowing she was losing control of the very essence of herself.
No, she whispered, then spun around and hurried down the sidewalk.
Jack shook his head slightly to shake off the strange, sensuous spell that had been woven over him. Man, he said, then took a much-needed deep breath.
He glanced quickly in the direction Jennifer had gone, then sprinted after her, catching up as she turned onto the cobblestone walk leading to her house. She was fumbling in her purse for her key while holding the box of chocolates in her other hand.
Jennifer Jack started.
No, she said, going up the steps of the wide front porch.
She unlocked the door and entered the house with Jack right behind her. Ill get you a blanket, she said, her back to him as he entered the house and shut the door behind him.
Jennifer, wait a minute, he said. We need to talk about what happened a minute ago.
She spun around, her green eyes flashing. No, we do not, she said, her voice not quite steady. Theres nothing to talk about.
But you felt it, I know you did. The heat, the pull, the
Lust, she said, lifting her chin. Lets give it the tacky title it deserves, shall we? Thats what it waslust. And as far as Im concerned, the incident is forgotten. I certainly dont wish to discuss it.
Jack frowned, then shook his head slowly. No, that wasnt lust, he said thoughtfully. Nope. No way. I know lust when Im caught up in it and thatwhatever it was that took place between us was something very, very different.
Jennifer dropped her purse and the candy box onto the sofa facing the fireplace, where embers of a dying fire still glowed. Her coat joined the lot moments later.
Whatever, she said, looking at Jack again. You have your opinion. I have mine. It really doesnt matter because the subject is closed.
What are you afraid of? Jack said, studying her intently. I mean, hey, Im a tad shook up myself here, because Ive never experienced anything quite like that before. But Im not afraid of it. I want to know what it was.
Well, I dont, she said, wrapping her hands around her elbows. Jack, please, let it go. Its late, Im tired, and I have to be up early in the morning to get Joey ready for kindergarten.
Jack swept his gaze over the large room that was furnished with worn but comfortable chairs and a sofa. The tables were oak and had seen better days.
Wheres your baby-sitter? he said.
When Im on this shift at the hotel, Joey sleeps at Mildred Clarks house next door. Mildred is a wonderful woman who is like a grandmother to Joey. In fact, he calls her Grandma Clark andOh, forget it. Why am I explaining all this to you?
Jack smiled. Because I asked?
Dont smile, she said, nearly yelling. Dont you dare smile that smile at me.
Huh? he said, definitely no longer smiling.
Jennifer pressed one hand to her forehead for a moment. Im losing it. I really am. This is insane. I dont behave this way. What on earth is the matter with me?
Gotcha, Jack said, pointing at her. See? You do want to know what that strange spell was that came over us out there in the cold, dark night. Whatever it was is what on earth is the matter with you. Get it?
What Im going to get, mister, she said, is a blanket for you. Then you are marching yourself out of here. Get it?
Got it.
Good.
Jennifer nodded decisively, then left the room, returning minutes later with a blanket.
Jack burst into laughter. Youre kidding, he said. Youre sending me packing wrapped in a Winnie-the-Pooh blanket?
Youll be cute as a button, she said, shoving the brightly colored blanket at him. Goodbye.
Jack tucked the blanket under one arm. Okay. Im gone. Lock up behind me.
At the door, Jack hesitated and turned. Jennifer was right behind him; their toes were nearly touching.
I think he said quietly. I truly believethat you have the same questions and want the same answers that I do. Its all very confusing, dont you think?
I
Shh.
Jack slid his free hand to the nape of Jennifers neck, lowered his head and claimed her mouth with his.
Jennifers eyes flew wide open in shock, but in the next instant her lashes drifted down as heat suffused her. Of their own volition her arms floated upward, then her hands encircled Jacks neck.
She savored the feel, the taste, the wondrous sensation of Jacks lips on hers, and offered no resistance as his tongue slipped into her mouth to seek and find her tongue.
Jack dropped the bulky blanket and gathered Jennifer close to his body, deepening the kiss as desire rocketed through him. He raised his head a fraction of an inch, then slanted his mouth in the opposite direction, drinking in the tantalizingly sweet taste of Jennifer. Heat coiled low and tight within him, arousing him almost to the point of pain.
Jennifer, his mind hummed. Hed known, just somehow known that it would be far, far more than just a simple kiss. It would be ecstasy.
Jennifer was responding to him, holding nothing back, returning his kiss with total abandon. He felt ten feet tall because Jennifer was, in this moment stolen out of time, his.
Jack groaned in pure male pleasure as he pressed Jennifer even more tightly against him, relishing the feel of her lush breasts being crushed to his chest.
Oh, his mind thundered, how he wanted her, wanted to make love with Jennifer Mackane through the remaining hours of the night.
The rumbling sound of Jacks sensual moan penetrated the mist encasing Jennifer, bringing her back to reality with a thud, jarring her from the rosy, sensuous place shed floated to.
She broke the kiss, jerked out of Jacks embrace, then took a shaky step backward as she drew a steadying breath.
Jack shook his head slightly. Whew. That wasYou areWhew.
That was, Jennifer said, hearing the thread of breathlessness in her voice, a mistake, should never have happened.
Why not? Jack said, frowning. It was sensational and equally shared.
I Jennifer started, then threw up her hands. Yes, all right, I cant deny that Itook part in that kiss.
Jack smiled. Kisses. Plural.
Whatever, she said, hugging herself. The fact remains that itthey, those kisseswere a mistake. I dont behave like thisever. I dont know what came over me, but Id appreciate it if youd forget that this incident ever took place.
Incident? he said, raising his eyebrows. Lady, it was a happening, an event, that defies description. Forget it? No way. Are you telling me that you can honestly forget how you felt, how you responded to me?
Yes. No. IJack, please, just go. Im embarrassed and upset andJust leave.
Hey, he said gently, dont be so hard on yourself. Youre a young, healthy, beautiful woman, with wants and needs that are nothing to be ashamed of. We felt itboth of us. The desirenot lust, desire. Theres nothing wrong with that.
Yes, there is, she said, her voice rising, because I dont want any part of feeling that heat, that need, thatNo. I have no room for all that in my lifenot anymore. Not now. Not ever again.
Why are you doing this to yourself? Jack said, matching her volume. So, okay, you loved your husband, but, my God, Jennifer, its been five years since that man died. He wouldnt want you to grieve for a lifetime, to cease to exist as a woman. You cant mourn him forever.
You dont understand.
No, I sure as hell dont, he said, restlessly raking a hand through his hair. What I do understandwhat I knowis that you want me as much as I want you.
No, she whispered, shaking her head.
Jack sighed in exasperation, then leaned down and grabbed the blanket from the floor. Im leaving now, Jennifer, he said, but this discussion isnt over. Theres something happening between us, and I want to know what it is. Ill be back.
Jack turned and left the house, closing the door with a tad more force than was necessary.
Jennifer walked to the door on trembling legs, snapped the lock into place, then rested her heated forehead on the cool, smooth wood.
Dear heaven, she thought frantically, what had she done? Shed responded to Jacks kisses like some wanton hussy, had pressed her body to his, had felt his arousal surging full and heavy against her and had inwardly rejoiced in the knowledge that such a magnificent man wanted her. Her.
Sensuous images had flitted through her passion-laden mind of clothes disappearing by magic, of tumbling naked onto her bed and reaching eagerly for Jack, bringing him to her to fill her emptiness, to awaken her sleeping femininity with glorious lovemaking.
Ill be back.
Jacks fiercely spoken words echoed in her head, and she spun around, her eyes darting across the room in a near-hysterical search for somewhere to hide.
To hide from Jack? she said aloud, as tears stung her eyes. No, heaven help me, to hide from myself.
This was her fault. She wasnt who she really was when she was with Jack. She didnt know whyjust did not know why, but she did know she would be certain never to be alone with Jack MacAllister again.
Exhaustion swept over her like a heavy curtain, and she stumbled across the room, turning off the lights as she went. A short time later she slipped into bed, a weary sigh escaping from her lips as her head touched the soft, welcoming pillow.
Sleep. She needed to sleep, to escape from the turmoil in her mind, to put hours of distance between herself and what had transpired with Jack in her living room.
Sleep, she thought foggily. Then morning would come and everything would be fine in the light of the new day.
When sunlight tiptoed into Jennifers bedroom the next morning and nudged her awake, she stirred, opened her eyes slowlyand thought of Jack.
With a muttered Damn him, she threw back the blankets on the bed and stomped into the bathroom for her shower.
Dressed in jeans, a navy-blue sweatshirt and her Big Bird slippers, she entered the kitchen twenty minutes later in a less-than-chipper mood. With a mug of hot coffee in one hand, she began to assemble Joeys breakfast with the other, a frown on her face.
Mom, Joey said, coming into the kitchen.
What! Jennifer snapped. Then her shoulders slumped. Oh, Joey, Im sorry. I sound like a grumpy bear. Good morning, sweetheart. Did you sleep well? She paused. How did you get into the house?
You didnt answer my knock at the front door, and the doorbells broke, and I had to use the key from under the mat to get in.
Jennifer set her mug on the counter and lifted Joey into her arms. I apologize, she said, then kissed him on the nose. I didnt start my day with my best foot forward, but Im fine now. Ill fix you breakfast, then walk you to school.
Kay, he said, wiggling to get down.
Jennifer set him on his feet.
But dont hold my hand when we turn the corner by the school, Mom, Joey said, sliding onto his chair at the table. Thats baby stuff, and Im big now.
Yes, you certainly are getting big, she said quietly. Very quickly, too. Youll be grown and gone before I know it.
Joey frowned. Gone where? I belong here with you. Im never going to leave you, Mommy. Never, ever, never. Cause if I did, youd be all alone. He straightened in his chair and smiled. No, you wouldnt. Not if you were the next bride cause you caught the flowers. Then youd have a groom guy and you wouldnt be alone at all.
To Jennifers dismay she was assaulted by the memory of being held so tightly in Jacks embrace, wrapped in the safe, strong cocoon of his arms as he kissed her.
Dont start that again, Joey. I am not going to be the next bride. Ill be just fine when Im alone after youre grown up. Clear?
No, he said, sticking out his bottom lip in a pout. Im going to talk to Uncle Ben and Uncle Brandon about this. Im going to tell them that youre breaking the rules about catching Aunt Megans flowers. You told me I should never break rules, Mom.
Oh, my stars, Jennifer said, rolling her eyes heavenward. I dont believe this. We are now changing the subject. What do you want for breakfast? Cereal? Toast? Eggs?
Hot dog with mustard.
Why not? she said, throwing up her hands.
And potato chips, Joey added.
Dont push your luck, sir. Ill trade you potato chips for a banana.
And orange soda.
Milk.
Joey sighed. Kay.
Jennifer began to prepare the agreed-upon breakfast as Joey chattered about beating Grandma Clark at Candy Land the previous evening.
Jennifer laughed. Poor Grandma Clark. You played Candy Land again? She can probably do it in her sleep by now.
Huh?
Never mind.
Guess what, Mom. Its my turn to feed the gerbil at school today. That is so cool. Can I have a gerbil of my own? Ill keep it in my bedroom.
Oh, ugh, no, Jennifer said, smiling. Those things remind me of mice. Just enjoy the one at school.
Can I have a dog? Know what? Sheriff Montana told me he might get a dog. If I had a dog, then my dog and Sheriff Montanas dog could be friends. Wouldnt that be really great?
One hot dog with mustard, plus a banana, Jennifer said, placing a plate in front of Joey. Thereyou have a dog.
Thats a hot dog, Joey said, giggling.
A dog is a dog. Ill get your milk.
Jennifer crossed the room and took a carton of milk from the refrigerator. As she turned again, she saw Joey jump from his chair. Where are you going? she said.
Somebody is knocking at the front door, he said, running from the room.
So early? she said, frowning. Wait, Joey. Dont open thedarn it.
Jennifer hurried after Joey as quickly as her Big Bird slippers would allow, the carton of milk still in one hand. Joey flung open the door, and Jennifer stumbled slightly before coming to a halt behind him.
Hi, Joey said.
Hi. Im Jack MacAllister, a friend of your moms. You must be Joey. I borrowed your blanket last night and I came to return it. I also brought some fresh cinnamon rolls from Hamilton House as a thank-you gift for allowing me to use your Pooh bear.
Jack shifted his gaze slowly to look at Jennifer. Good morning, Jennifer, he said, smiling. May I come in?
Sure, Joey said, stepping back and bumping into his mother.
Jack entered the house, and Joey slammed the door.
Jack swept his gaze over Jennifer, chuckling as he gave special attention to her feet. Love the slippers, he said, grinning at her. Milk? Great, he added, nodding toward the carton in her hand. That will hit the spot with these cinnamon rolls. Come on, Joey. Lets dig into these goodies while theyre still warm. He dropped the blanket onto the sofa.
As Joey and Jack headed for the kitchen, Jennifer just stood where she was, Big Bird slippers on her feet, a carton of milk in her hand.
My life, she said, a rather bemused tone to her voice as she stared into space, is suddenly out of control.
Chapter Four
Jennifer headed toward the kitchen, then stopped, staring down at her silly slippers.
She should make a detour to her bedroom, she thought, and change into her tennis shoes. No, forget it. Jack had already seen her funny feet, and besides, shed never do anything to hurt Joeys feelings.
Joey, she thought, starting toward the kitchen again. He shouldnt eat one of those enormous cinnamon rolls from Hamilton House. Hed be on such a sugar rush, hed be bouncing off the walls the entire morning at school.
New York City, Jack was saying when Jennifer entered the kitchen.
Wow. Cool, Joey said. They have big apples there, or something.
Jack laughed. Or something. But Im moving to Ventura, California. I just stopped off in Prescott to visit my buddy Brandon. Im going to be a member of MacAllister Architects, Incorporated.
Why? Joey said, then took a bite of the gooey roll.
Why? Jack frowned. Well, because I was ready for a change, and it will be nice to be working with family.
Whoa, Joey, Jennifer said, bringing a knife to the table where the pair sat. Half a cinnamon roll for breakfast. You can have the rest later.
Kay, Joey said, as Jennifer cut the roll in two.
Youll join us, wont you, Jennifer? Jack said.
I dont eat breakfast, she said, not looking at him. A cup of coffee is all I have.
Then bring your cup and sit down, Jack said.
Yeah, Mom, Joey said. You should do that because we have company.
Mmm. She glared at Jack. Very early company. She paused. Oh, all right. Would you like some coffee, Jack?
Yes, thank you, he said, smiling. Sounds great. I take it black.
Dandy, she said, spinning around and nearly falling over her slippers.
Dont think, she ordered herself as she went to the coffeemaker. She would not entertain any thoughts, any memoriesabsolutely noneabout what had happened between her and Jack the previous night.
She would not allow her bones to dissolve when Jack MacAllister smiled at her.
She would pay no attention to the flutter of heat that was now swirling and pulsing through her body.
She couldnt care less if Jack had removed his jacket to reveal a sweater that was the exact shade of his chocolate fudge sauce eyes.
She could handle this. No problem. Jack was just a man, who was sitting at her table stuffing his face with a cinnamon roll. A gorgeous man. A man whose shoulders looked a mile wide in that sweater. A sweater that encased strong arms that had held her so tightly, so safely in his embrace. An embrace that had included kisses that were ecstasy in its purest form and
Thats enough, she ordered herself. Get a grip.
She plunked a mug of coffee in front of Jack, retrieved her own from the counter, then poured a glass of milk for Joey. She sat down next to her son at the table and put the glass in front of him.
Every drop, sweetie, she said.
Kay, Joey said, then looked at Jack again. How come you had my Pooh blanket? Did you leave yours in New York City?
Something like that, he said, smiling. I used your blanket like a coat, because I wasnt wearing mine and it was cold.
Oh, Joey said, nodding. Do you have a dog?
No, Jack said, then took a bite of roll. Mmm. Delicious.
Do you have a little boy? Joey asked.
No, Jack said.
Do you have a wife lady?
No, Jack said.
Joey leaned forward. Do you have a suit and tie?
Joey, Jennifer said quickly, feeling a flush of embarrassment heat her cheeks, eat your breakfast. Its getting late.
I have a suit and tie, Jack said. Why did you ask me that?
Well, because you need to have a suit and tie if youre going to be a
Time to go, Jennifer said, getting to her feet.
Joey glanced at the clock on the wall. No, its not. The big hand isnt at the top, Mom.
Oh. Jennifer sighed and sank back into her chair.
Back up, Joey, Jack said. Im definitely missing something here. I need to have a suit and tie to be awhat?
A groom guy, Joey said.
Oh, good grief, Jennifer muttered.
See, my mom caught Aunt Megans wedding flowers and that means my mom is going to be the next bride, but she needs a groom guy if shes going to be a bride. Then Id have a daddy I dont have to give back. Joey paused. Just like Sammy has. See?
More coffee, Jack? Jennifer said, looking at a spot about four inches above his head.
No, Im fine, Jack said, his gaze riveted on Joey. Let me make certain I understand this, Joey.
Oh, lets not, Jennifer said.
Jack ignored her comment. He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest.
I think I get the picture, Joey, he said, except for the part where you have to give the daddy back.
Oh, Joey said. Thats Uncle Ben, Uncle Brandon and Uncle Taylor. We do men stuff together, but He shrugged. When were done doing men stuff, I have to give them back.
Ah, Jack said, nodding slowly.
Sheriff Montana might be a good groom guy cause hes thinking about getting a dog, Joey went on. But I dont know if Sheriff Montana has a suit and tie. He frowned. The thing is, though, my mom doesnt want to be the next bride.
Ah, Jack said again.
Thats breaking the rules of catching the flowers, Joey said.
Indeed, Jack said.
I cant break rules, so I dont think my mom should get to. Do you?
My, my, look at that big hand on the clock, Joey, Jennifer said. Run and brush your teeth and get your jacket. Then Ill walk you to school.
Kay.
Joey hopped from the room on both feet, announcing that he was Tigger. As he exited, the coffee mugs jiggled and clinked on the table.
That is one terrific kid, Jack said, smiling at Jennifer. Man, hes neat.
Yes, well, I think hes pretty special, she said, tracing the rim of her coffee mug with one fingertip. Hes all boy, thats for sure. Full of energyOf course, as a typical five year old, he has definite opinions about things, and doesnt hesitate to express them. You have to discount a great deal of what he says because he has a tendency to blither on and on, whether he knows what hes talking about or not. Therefore
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, (https://www.litres.ru/joan-elliott-pickart-3/to-a-macallister-born/) .
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Joan Elliott Pickart
ANOTHER MACALLISTER BLESSING?He was just passing through town, when his life changed forever. Jack MacAllister, tried-and-true bachelor, suddenly found himself a little boy's #1 daddy pick. But the adorable tyke's single mom didn't seem as soldand Jack sensed she was keeping secrets. But something about Jennifer Mackane made him believe he could trust hercould even love herbut he'd learned never to trust a lady.Then he discovered that not all of Jennifer's secrets were old. One involved a baby, yet to be born.Jack's baby.Experience more laughter and love as the MacAllister family increases its fold!
Shed conceived Jacks child.
Jennifer sank back in the chair and splayed her hands on her flat stomach.
Jacks baby, her mind whispered. No, it was her baby. Her secret. She was not going to tell Jack about this child unless he came to her and asked her to marry him.
She wouldnt trap him into proposing to her, thus sentencing herself to a lifetime of wondering if he truly wished to be by her side.
If Jack went to California per his original plan, he would never, ever know that this child existed.
And the serious discussion shed scheduled for that evening? Oh, yes, theyd have that talk, but shed keep a tight rein on her emotions. Shed wait to hear what Jack had to say.
Waitwhile she hoped and prayed that hed ask her to be his wife.
Dear Reader,
Welcome to a spectacular month of great romances as we continue to celebrate Silhouettes 20th Anniversary all year long!
Beloved bestselling author Nora Roberts returns with Irish Rebel, a passionate sequel to her very first book, Irish Thoroughbred. Revisit the spirited Grant family as tempers flare, sparks fly and love ignites between the newest generation of Irish rebels!
Also featured this month is Christine Flynns poignant THATS MY BABY! story, The Baby Quilt, in which a disillusioned, high-powered attorney finds love and meaning in the arms of an innocent young mother.
Silhouette reader favorite Joan Elliott Pickart delights us with her secret baby story, To a MacAllister Born, adding to her heartwarming cross-line miniseries, THE BABY BET. And acclaimed author Ginna Gray delivers the first compelling story in her series, A FAMILY BOND, with A Man Apart, in which a wounded loner lawman is healed heart, body and soul by the nurturing touch of a beautiful, compassionate woman.
Rounding off the month are two more exciting ongoing miniseries. From longtime author Susan Mallery, we have a sizzling marriage-of-convenience story, The Sheiks Secret Bride, the third book in her DESERT ROGUES series. And Janis Reams Hudson once again shows her flair for Western themes and Native American heroes with The Price of Honor, a part of her miniseries, WILDERS OF WYATT COUNTY.
Its a terrific month of page-turning reading from Special Edition. Enjoy!
All the best,
Karen Taylor Richman
Senior Editor
To a MacAllister Born
Joan Elliott Pickart
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
For my daughter, Paige, my very own Tempe, Arizona, fire fighter
Im a proud mommy, Peep
Books by Joan Elliott Pickart
Silhouette Special Edition
* (#litres_trial_promo)Friends, Loversand Babies! #1011
* (#litres_trial_promo)The Father of Her Child #1025
(#litres_trial_promo)Texas Dawn #1100
(#litres_trial_promo)Texas Baby #1141
(#litres_trial_promo)Wife Most Wanted #1160
The Rancher and the Amnesiac Bride #1204
? (#litres_trial_promo)The Irresistible Mr. Sinclair #1256
? (#litres_trial_promo)The Most Eligible M.D. #1262
ManMercenaryMonarch #1303
* (#litres_trial_promo)To a MacAllister Born #1329
Silhouette Desire
* (#litres_trial_promo) Angels and Elves #961
Apache Dream Bride #999
(#litres_trial_promo)Texas Moon #1051
(#litres_trial_promo)Texas Glory #1088
Just My Joe #1202
? (#litres_trial_promo)Taming Tall, Dark Brandon #1223
Previously published under the pseudonym Robin Elliott
Silhouette Special Edition
Ranchers Heaven #909
Mother at Heart #968
Silhouette Intimate Moments
Gauntlet Run #206
Silhouette Desire
Call It Love #213
To Have It All #237
Picture of Love #261
Pennies in the Fountain #275
Dawns Gift #303
Brookes Chance #323
Betting Man #344
Silver Sands #362
Lost and Found #384
Out of the Cold #440
Sophies Attic #725
Not Just Another Perfect Wife #818
Havens Call #859
JOAN ELLIOTT PICKART
is the author of over seventy novels. When she isnt writing, she enjoys watching football, knitting, reading, gardening and attending craft shows on the town square. Joan has three all-grown-up daughters and a fantastic little grandson. In September of 1995, Joan traveled to China to adopt her fourth daughter, Autumn. Joan and Autumn have settled into their cozy cottage in a charming, small town in the high pine country of Arizona.
Contents
Chapter One (#ud6523812-732d-52e0-8cce-4617157fb07e)
Chapter Two (#u8d8d1e2b-dfae-5f59-b566-7e957670f7e2)
Chapter Three (#ufe9db341-fed6-5609-954b-5216dbc003e0)
Chapter Four (#ueef67e20-8cdc-545b-b2b0-31e3ba4d7708)
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)
Chapter Thirteen (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Fourteen (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Fifteen (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter One
Jennifer Mackane stretched leisurely, then snuggled deeper beneath the blankets on the bed with a sigh of contentment.
She wasnt scheduled to work today, or tonight, at Hamilton House, she mused, and would be able to spend the free hours with her precious Joey. Theyd straighten up around the house and run errands, then indulge in dinner at Joeys favorite fast-food restaurant.
Shed have the luxury of tucking a fresh-from-his-bath Joey into bed that night and reading him a story as he drifted off to sleep. Bliss. Sweet bliss.
A faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee reached Jennifer, and she knew the automatic timer on the machine had produced the hot, beckoning brew.
No, she thought. Shed stay in bed a while longer, be sinfully lazy. Then again, the coffee smelled so deliciously tempting.
Oh, who am I kidding? she said, laughing. That coffee is calling my name.
She threw back the blankets and left the bed, poking her feet into enormous yellow slippers that boasted the head of a smiling Big Bird.
Joey was so proud of those slippers hed given her for Christmas last year, she mused. Hed gone shopping with his Uncle Brandon and Uncle Ben, the outing producing the bizarre slippers as Joeys gift to his mom.
Jennifer had shot dagger-filled looks at Brandon Hamilton and Ben Rizzoli when shed opened her present, and had seen the merriment and mischief dancing in their dark eyes. But shed become accustomed to the pairs nonsense while the three of them had grown up together. Here in the pretty little town of Prescott, nestled high in the mountains a hundred miles above Phoenix, theyd enjoyed an idyllic childhood.
Jennifer thudded her way toward the kitchen as she smoothed her red flannel nightshirt down to her knees. Big Birds heads bobbed up and down with each step she took.
Joey would be checking to see that she was wearing these silly creations, she knew, despite the fact that it was nearly a year since hed given them to her.
In the large kitchen of the old, three-story Victorian house, Jennifer poured herself a mug of hot coffee, then opened the refrigerator to find the carton that would provide the splash of milk.
She hesitated and frowned, her gaze falling on the bridal bouquet on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. She added milk to the coffee, retrieved the bouquet, then settled at the kitchen table, staring at the lovely flowers as she took her first sip.
She could clearly recall the shock and dismay shed registered when the bouquet had come sailing through the air at Megan and Bens wedding reception yesterday and somehow landed in her hands. Shed stared at it in wide-eyed horror, as the other women in the assembled group cheered for her, telling her she was now officially destined to be the next bride.
No way, she had said, poking the flowers with one finger. Not a chance.
She had planned to quietly slide the bouquet behind the stack of wedding gifts on the table at the reception and forget it. But Joey had been jumping up and down with excitement, declaring his mom to be a great pass catcher, just like whomever he had said caught the football from some quarterback hed named. Joey had insisted on holding the touchdown bouquet all the way home.
Jennifer got to her feet, went to one of the cupboards and rummaged through it until she found a vase. She filled it halfway with water, then returned to the table and began to carefully dismantle the bouquet, sticking the flowers into the water.
They would now be just flowers in a vase, she decided, with no old wives tale connotations connected to them. Not that she actually believed in the whoever-caught-the-bouquet-is-the-next-bride theory, but why take unnecessary chances?
She had no intention of remarrying, and having the bridal bouquet take up residence in her refrigerator even overnight was long enough, thank you very much.
There, she said, admiring her work. Theyre flowers in a vase, nothing more. The spell is broken. End of story.
Hi, Mom, a sleepy Joey said, coming into the kitchen. He peered under the table at Jennifers feet.
Hello, sweetheart, Jennifer said, her heart warming at the sight of her sleep-rumpled, five-year-old son in his Rugrats pajamas. Hows my big boy this morning? Ready for some breakfast?
Guess so. Joey slid onto a chair opposite her, yawned, then frowned. Whatcha do to the flowers you caught?
They needed water to stay fresh so we could enjoy them, Jennifer said.
Oh. Well, you still get to be the next bride like everyone said. Can you have a chocolate wedding cake if you want to when youre the bride? Aunt Megan and Uncle Bens cake tasted kinda yucky. You should pick chocolate for yours.
Sweetheart, Jennifer said, Im not going to have a wedding cake because Im not getting married.
Yes, you are, Joey said, his voice rising. Everyone at the party said so after you caught the flowers. Youll be a bride like Aunt Megan was andwell, first you gotta find somebody to be the groom guy, then Ill have a daddy like Sammy. Thats how it works, Mom. It does.
Jennifer felt a chill sweep through her and tighten into a cold fist in her stomach.
Joey, she said gently, praying her voice was steady, youve never said you wanted a daddy. Were a team, you and me, the two of us. Were doing great together, dont you think?
Yeah, sure, Mom, but Joey shrugged. It would be nice to have a daddy like Sammy does. They do men stuff together.
Well, you domen stuff with Uncle Ben and Uncle Brandon, and even Uncle Taylor when he comes up from Phoenix. They take you fishing, camping, hikingall kinds of things.
Yes, but Joey sighed.
But what, sweetheart? Jennifer said, leaning toward him.
When Im done doing men stuff with Uncle Ben, and Uncle Brandon, and Uncle Taylor, I have to give them back. I dont get to keep them, Mom. I dont have a daddy all the time like Sammy does.
I see, Jennifer said softly, struggling against threatening tears. But you know thats because your daddy is in heaven with the angels, Joey. I cant change that, sweetheart.
You could be a bride like youre supposed to be cause you caught the flowers, Joey said, nearly yelling. All you need is a guy to wear a suit and tie and buy you a yellow ring like Uncle Ben got Aunt Megan. How come you wont do that, Mom?
Joey, I realize that you dont understand and that youre getting angry at me because you dont. When youre older, bigger, this will make sense to you.
Joey scowled and dropped his chin to his chest. No, it wont.
Jennifer stared at her son, her heart aching.
She had known, somewhere in the back of her mind, that this discussion would take place one day, she thought miserably.
When Joey was three years old, hed asked why he didnt have a daddy, but had readily accepted the explanation that his father was in heaven with the angels.
Now, at five years old, Joey was comparing his family to that of his best friend, Sammy, and deciding it came up very short.
Shed worked so hard at being both mother and father to her son, and was eternally grateful to Ben, Brandon and Taylor for stepping in as father figures for Joey whenever they could.
But now her little boy wanted his own daddy, just like Sammy had. His uncles just werent enough.
Oh, Joey, Im so sorry, Jennifer thought, blinking back tears. What he wanted, she would never give him. She could notwould notmarry again. All she could do was weather this emotional storm of Joeys and hope, pray, it would soon pass.
Added to that heartfelt prayer was the ongoing one that Joey would never learn the truth about his father. No one knew the true facts of her past with Joe Mackane, and, heaven help her, no one ever would.
Well, she said, forcing a cheerful tone into her voice, you must be a hungry boy. How would you like pancakes made in the shape of animals?
Joeys head popped up. Yeah. Cool. I want a horse and elephant and hippopotamus.
Jennifer laughed and got to her feet. A hippopotamus? Goodness, I dont know if Im that talented a pancake artist, my sweet, but Ill give it my best shot.
Joey slid off his chair. Ill pour my own milk into a glass. I need milk for my bones and teeth.
Indeed, you do, sir, Jennifer said, taking a bowl out of a cupboard. Youll grow up big and strong likelike your uncles.
And be a fine, upstanding man like your uncles, with no hint of the lack of morals and values of your father, she mentally tacked on, as she began to prepare the pancake batter.
Joey looked so much like herit was as though Joe had had nothing to do with the childs creation. Joey had her wavy, strawberry-blond hair and fair complexion. His eyes were a sparkling green, and his features resembled hers. Anyone could tell that he was her son.
No, there was no hint of Joe Mackane in Joey, thank God, and there never would be as she continued to teach him the important lessons of integrity and honesty. Ah, yes, honesty. That was definitely something Joe never possessed, nor knew the meaning of.
Joe had been killed in a construction accident a week before Joey was born. In heaven with the angels? Jennifer mused. No, not even close. He wouldnt have begun to qualify for admission. But that was something her son would never know.
After cleaning the kitchen after breakfast, during which shed received a passing grade for her pancake hippopotamus, Jennifer showered and dressed in jeans and a green sweater that matched her eyes.
While Joey was putting away scattered toys in his room, Jennifer opened the drapes on the windows in the living room, then frowned.
There was a man standing on the sidewalk in front of the house. He was tall, extremely handsome, with dark, auburn hair, rugged features, wide shoulders, and long, muscular jeans-clad legs. His hands were shoved into his jacket pockets, and he was staring at the top of the house, apparently unaware of her sudden appearance in the window.
What was he doing there? Jennifer wondered. Who was he? If he was a thief casing the place, he wasnt being very subtle about it.
All right, he had two minutes to be on his way, or she was going to march out there and confront him.
Jennifer narrowed her eyes.
Maybe that was dumb. Friendly, small-town Prescott or not, it was probably foolish to demand an explanation from a perfect stranger.
Perfect? Well, on a score of one to ten, the man was an eleven as far as looks and build wentbut that was beside the point. She was a woman alone with a small, vulnerable boy to protect.
No, shed give it another minute, then call Sheriff Montana and tell him about the stranger who was stilldarn himscrutinizing her home, her safe haven. He would handle this in the proper manner.
Okay, buddy, she thought, its now one minute and counting.
Jennifers breath caught as her gaze connected with the strangers. He smiled, sketched a salute, then spun around and walked down the sidewalk.
A frisson of heat coursed through her and settled low in her body. She wrapped her hands around her elbows, then moved to the edge of the window, watching until the man disappeared from view.
Dear heaven, she thought, that smile of his should be registered as a lethal weapon, along with the loose-limbed, oh-so-sexy way he walked.
It had been many years since shed had a sensual response to a member of the opposite sex. It was unsettling, to say the least, and very unwelcome.
It was also borderline crazy. Shed had a physical reaction to a man she didnt even know, and who might very well be a thief contemplating breaking into her house to steal her worldly goods, such as they were.
What on earth was the matter with her? she thought, shaking her head. On that horrifying day of Joes funeral, when shed learned the truths that had shattered her world, shed begun the process of building a wall around herself.
Never again, she had vowed, would a man awaken her sexuality. Never again would a man touch her heart or her body. Never again would she love someone who was capable of destroying her.
Mom, Joey yelled, running into the room, I found my favorite dinosaur. It was under my bed. Cool, huh?
Jennifer drew a steadying breath, then turned to smile at her son.
Very cool, she said. Oh, its very dusty, too. Lets wash it off in the kitchen sink. Theres nothing worse than a dusty dinosaur.
That evening, Jennifer settled onto the sofa in the living room in front of the crackling fire in the hearth, and picked up the mystery novel she was in the process of reading. Joey was fast asleep, having nodded off during the tale of Peter Pan.
She tucked her legs up close to her on the puffy cushion, spread an afghan she had knitted across her lap, and opened the book to the page that boasted a brightly colored bookmark Joey had made her for Mothers Day.
After reading one sentence, the image of the stranger who had stood in front of her house that morning superimposed itself over the words on the page.
Darn you, she said, snapping the book closed. Would you just go away and leave me alone?
She sighed and shook her head as she set the book next to her, then stared into the leaping flames of the fire.
The anticipated, carefree day with Joey had been a disaster. Everywhere the two of them had gone, she found herself looking for that man, while at the same time registering excitement and fear.
The stranger had haunted her through the seemingly endless hours of the day. And with the thoughts of him came the disturbing remembrance of the rush of heated desire that had suffused her when hed smiled.
Oh-h-h, Im driving myself crazy, Jennifer said aloud, throwing up her hands.
Okay, enough of this, she admonished herself. She was getting a grip right now. Shed analyze this bizarre behavior of hers, figure out why she was acting so unlike her norm, then be done with it.
Fine, she said, tapping one fingertip against her chin. Waitaminute. Of course. Thats it.
She was the victim of a series of events that had taken place in rapid succession.
First, shed attended the beautiful wedding of her dear friends, Ben and Megan, who were obviously deeply in love.
While she had neither the intention nor the desire to remarry, the romantic event had no doubt poked a bit at her subconscious and emphasized the lack of a special man in her lifeeven though she didnt want one
Second, shed caught the wedding bouquet, and had been surrounded by people declaring over and over that she would soon fall in love and be the next bride.
Third, Joey had expressed his sadness over not having a father, which had made her heart ache for her son.
If one added up all those events that centered on romance, love, a husband, a daddy that Joey wouldnt have to give backwell, it was no wonder shed overreacted the very next time a handsome man directed a smile at her.
Thank goodness, shed figured it out. She felt so much better. It was amazing what a little inner dialogue could do to get a person squared away.
With a decisive nod, Jennifer picked up the book, found her place on the marked page and began to read.
Just before four oclock the next afternoon, Jennifer entered Hamilton House, the hotel where she was manager of the dining room.
The beautiful building had been completely restored by her childhood friend Brandon Hamilton, after hed dropped out of the fast lane in New York and returned to his roots in Prescott.
The large lobby was exquisite, transporting a person back to the turn of the 19th century. The Victorian furnishings, the original cabbage-rose carpeting, the gleaming piano by the front windowseverything was perfect.
Along the far wall was a simulated old-fashioned, cobblestone street, complete with lampposts to light the way. Open-fronted specialty shops beckoned to be explored.
One of the shops, Sleeping Beauty, offered feminine apparel and luscious bath accessories. The store was a smaller version of the one in Phoenix that was owned by Taylor Sinclairs wife, Janice.
Jennifer waved at Ryan, who was on duty behind the reception desk, then headed down the hallway that led to the dining room.
For the next hour, Jennifer was busy as she checked the reservation book for the evening ahead, spoke with the dinner and pastry chefs, reviewed and approved an order the wine steward wished to place, and conferred with the manager of housekeeping regarding the condition of the high-quality, linen tablecloths and napkins that were used in the dining room.
At five oclock she was at her post behind the podium by the doors, ready to welcome the first guests arriving for dinner.
The flow of patrons moving in and out kept her bustling back and forth as she sat the guests at their tables and presented them with oversize menus.
A little after seven oclock, Jennifer returned to the podium yet again, then smiled automatically as the doors to the dining room opened.
And then she stopped breathing.
Her smile disappeared, her eyes widened and her heart began to beat in a wild tattoo.
It was him, she thought frantically. The man. He was now beyond magnificent, in a dark blue sport coat over a white shirt and blue tie, and gray slacks. But it was most definitely him.
The stranger who had stood on the sidewalk in front of her house and might very well have decided on the best method to break in.
The man who had smiled at her, causing a desire to swirl within her, and who had haunted her thoughts ever since.
Dear heaven, what was he doing here? Had he followed her? Was she the reason he had studied her house? Was she being stalked by a raving lunatic?
Jennifer looked quickly around the room. What should she do? Scream at the top of her lungs? Grab the receiver to the telephone on the podium and call Sheriff Montana?
No, no, she had to calm down. She was surrounded by people, was safefor the moment, at least. Shed just bluff her way through this until she could formulate a sensible plan.
Good evening, she said to the man, unable to produce even the smallest smile. May I help you?
Jack MacAllister walked slowly toward the podium, his gaze riveted on the woman who had spoken to him.
It was her, he thought incredulously. The beautiful lady in the window of the intriguing Victorian house.
The woman who had not been far from his mental vision ever since hed seen her yesterday morning as hed stood on the sidewalk in front of her home.
She was even more lovely up close. Her eyes were greenincredibly green, and her hair was a silken tumble of strawberry-blond waves to just above her shoulders. Her features were delicate, her lips made for kissing. What he could see of the pale green dress she was wearing gave hint of lush breasts beneath the soft material.
And for some unknown reason, she was staring at him as though she expected him to leap over the podium and strangle her with his bare hands.
All he had done was walk into the dining room of the hotel, but, heaven only knew why, he was scaring this breathtaking feminine creature to death.
Hed never caused that kind of reaction in a woman before.
Good evening, he said, stopping in front of the podium and producing his best, hundred-watt smile. I apologize if I startled you when I opened the doors.
Startled me? she said, more in the form of a squeak.
Well, yesI mean, you look ratherfright-ened.
Frightened? She splayed one hand on her breasts. Me?
Look, Jack said, frowning as he extended one hand toward her, I dont know what I did to
She took a step backward. Dont come any closer. I might appear frightened, but Im not. No, sir, not one little bit. Im wise to you, mister. I have a great many friends in this town, including the sheriff, and youll never get away with itnot in a million years.
Huh?
She glanced quickly around the room. Justjust She flapped one hand at him. Shuffle off to Buffalo. Get out of Dodge. Give up on whatever your diabolical scheme is before you end up in the clink.
Huh? Jack said again, totally confused.
Hey, there you are, a deep voice said.
Brandon Jack and the woman said in unison.
Brandon Hamilton strode to the podium. Jennifer, Id like you to meet Jack MacAllister, a good buddy of mine. Jack, this lovely lady and I have been friends since before we could walk and talk. This is Jennifer Mackane.
Its a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Mackane, Jack said, grinning.
Chapter Two
Before Jennifer was forced to respond to Jack MacAllisters greeting, the dining room doors once again opened.
When she saw Brandons wife, Andrea, and his great-aunts, twin sisters Prudence and Charity, enter the room, she nearly flung herself at them for a group hug.
Hi, she said weakly, then snatched up a pile of menus. Your table is ready. Lets go. She shook her head slightly. I mean, would you follow me, please?
Rushing from behind the podium, she bumped smack-dab into Jack, and the menus went flying in all directions.
Oh, Im terribly sorry, Mr. MacAllister, Jennifer said, not looking directly at him. My, my, clumsy me. Ill just pick these up andBrandon, you have the corner table by the windows. Ill be with you in just a second.
Jennifer squatted to collect the scattered menus, only to have Jack hunker down next to her and retrieve two of them.
Ill give you a hand, he said.
Jennifers head snapped up, and she found herself only inches from Jack. He was looking directly at her, a small smile on his lips.
Chocolate fudge sauce, she thought. That was the color of Jack MacAllisters eyes. Delicious, chocolate fudge sauce. Good grief, he was handsomeso ruggedly male, as though his features had been chiseled from rough stone.
There were tiny lines by his eyes, and she guessed he was maybe thirty-five or thirty-six. His hair was thick, an auburn shade reminding her of a glossy Irish setter.
His nose was straight, his jaw square, his lips masculine but soft, as though waiting for a kiss.
Jennifer, get a grip, she ordered herself, averting her eyes from Jacks. There was that heat again, that damnable heat, swirling low within her, pulsing, causing a warm flush to stain her cheeks.
Jennifer stood, clutching the menus to her chest. Jack rose and offered two more to her.
Thank you, she said, nearly snatching them out of his hand. Brandon, why are you still here? I thought you were going over to your table.
We will, sweetie pie, Aunt Charity said, just as soon as we figure out what in the blue blazes is the matter with you.
Yes, dear, Aunt Prudence said. You do seem a teeny bit flustered this evening. Is something wrong?
Jennifer looked at the elderly aunts. Although they were twins, their mirror image was the only similar thing about them.
Aunt Prudence was wearing a sedate gray dress with a high neck and long sleeves. Aunt Charity was decked out in yards of royal blue taffeta, the dress reminiscent of a turn-of-the-19th-century dance hall costume.
Andrea was standing next to tall, dark and handsome Brandon. Her maternity dress was peach, which accentuated her lovely, silky dark hair. She had an expression of concern on her pretty face.
Im fine, Jennifer said, producing a passable smile. I just overreacted to something I shouldnt have overreacted to, thats all. My imagination got the better of me andIm fine now.
Hold it, Jack said, snapping his fingers. The lightbulb just went on over my head. You saw me on the sidewalk in front of your house yesterday morning. Staring at your home. Casing the place, one might think. Am I getting this straight? Then I showed up here, and that scared the bejesus out of you. Right?
Jennifer lifted her chin. Thats correct, Mr. MacAllister. Your behavior unsettled me. I apologize for She frowned. No, I dont. I had just cause to question your intentions.
You betcha, Aunt Charity said. There was a stranger gawking at your house, for mercys sake. That would shake up any single, unmarried, unattached, not-even-dating-anyone woman who has a little boy to protect.
Thank you for sharing, Aunt Charity, Jack said, smiling at her.
Just stating the facts, hotshot, Aunt Charity said, obviously pleased with herself.
Jennifer closed her eyes for a moment and squeezed the bridge of her nose as she drew a deep breath and let it out slowly. Then she raised her head and forced a smile into place.
Welcome to the dining room of Hamilton House, she said, looking at a spot above the assembled group. May I show you to your table?
Jack chuckled. Why certainly, Ms. Mackane. Do lead on.
Call her Jennifer, Aunt Charity said. Shes a member of our family, and so are you now, Jack. Jennifer, call JackJack.
Thats Jack MacAllister, he said, grinning at Jennifer. Not Jack the Ripper.
Mmm, she said, glaring at him.
Jennifer marched across the room to the designated table. When the others joined her, she shoved the stack of menus at Brandon, who grabbed them before they fell to the floor again.
Enjoy your dinner, Jennifer said, then hurried away.
Everyone settled into their chairs, and Brandon passed out the menus.
MacAllister, Brandon said, laughing, youve only been in town a couple of days and youve already caused trouble. New York City is probably celebrating your permanent departure, and the citizens of Ventura, California, are shaking in their shorts.
Hey, Im innocent, Jack said. All I was doing was admiring a dynamite example of historical architecturewhich is badly in need of some tender lovin care, by the way. I didnt intend to shake up the lovely Jennifer. She sure has a temper to go along with that red hair of hers.
Shes a handful, all right, Aunt Charity said, peering at her menu. Has been ever since she was a little girl. It would take a very special man to be a match for our Jennifer.
And a father for Joey, Aunt Prudence said.
I assume Jennifer is divorced, Jack said.
No, dear, Aunt Prudence said. Shes a widow. Her Joe was killed in a construction accident a week before Joey was born. Jennifer returned to Prescott to raise her son. Her parents relocated to Phoenix shortly thereafter due to Jennifers mother having severe arthritis. Jennifer is living in their family home.
Its a lovely house, Andrea said, but its an awful lot for Jennifer to keep up, Im afraid.
I see, Jack said slowly. How old is Joey?
Five, Aunt Charity said. Hes cute as a button. Looks just like his mama.
Jack frowned. Thats a good many years to mourn a man, no matter how great he might have been. Arent there any eligible bachelors in this town?
Oodles, Aunt Charity said. Jennifer seems determined never to remarry. Heaven knows, weve done our darndest to fix her up with the cream of the crop around here. She paused. Maybe we should leap into action again, Pru. After all, Jennifer did catch Megans bouquet at the wedding.
Indeed, she did, Pru said, smiling.
Oh, man, here we go again, Brandon said, chuckling. Poor Jennifer.
Sounds to me like the lady knows her own mind, Jack said. She likes being single. End of story. The same holds true of me. All the matchmaking in the world wouldnt get me to change my stand on the issue. Im a bachelor and intend to remain one.
Wanna bet, big boy? Aunt Charity said, leaning toward him.
Youd better shut up, MacAllister, Brandon said, shaking his head. Aunt Charity and Aunt Pru are pros at this matchmaking bit. I was a confirmed bachelor, too, remember?
And so was Ben, Andrea said, smiling. As well as Taylor.
Yep, Brandon said, nodding. And now were all married. Dont get too mouthy on the issue, Jack. You never know what the future holds.
I know what it holds for me on the subject of marriage, Jack said. It aint gonna happen.
Yes, dear, Aunt Pru said, patting his hand. We hear you.
Ah, how the mighty will fall, Andrea said, smiling. You did tell us the fascinating tale of the baby bet business that took place within the MacAllister clan, Jack. Your cousin, Forrest, was the reigning champion for eonsthen kaboom, he was dethroned, so to speak.
Yep, Brandon said. Thats how the story went. The same could hold true for the remaining eligible males in a bachelor bet. Look at how many of us have taken the fall. He glanced quickly at Andrea. And very happily so, my sweet.
Nice save, Hamilton, Andrea said, laughing.
Ill be pleased to take your money in a bachelor bet, Brandon. Jack leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest. So would my younger brother, Richard, I imagine. My sister is single, too, if you want to add bachelorettes to the soup.
I want a piece of this action, Aunt Charity said, rubbing her hands together.
I do believe, Andrea said thoughtfully, that our new sheriff, Cable Montana, would be in the camp with you and your brother, Jack.
The numbers grow, Jack said, nodding. There are simply men in this world who have no intention of marryingever.
I know, Brandon said, grinning at Jack. I was one of them.
Jack flattened his hands on the table and leaned toward Brandon.
The difference between us, buddy, Jack said, is that Ill never change my stand on the issue.
Yes, dear, Aunt Prudence said, smiling sweetly. So you said.
Jack chuckled, sat back again and shook his head.
Youre all smiling like Cheshire cats, he said. You obviously believe Im full of hot air. Oh, easy pickings, thats what you are. Money in my pocket. How long before I can collect this bachelor bet? Do I have to be a hundred and two and still single before you pay up?
Well work out the details of that part of the bachelor bet later, big boy, Aunt Charity said. Here comes our waitress. Lets eat. Im starving to death while Im sitting here.
So are we, Andrea said, patting her protruding stomach. Baby Hamilton is doing gymnastics to let me know shes hungry.
She? She? Brandon said, raising his eyebrows. Have you finally accepted the fact that Im right? That were having a girl? A daughter?
Sure, she has, Jack said. I told you that when Forrest finally lost the baby bet, the baton was passed to the daddy-to-be. The fathers have been right every time since. If you say its a girl, Brandon, then its a girl. Your wife is a smart lady, and realized that the baby bet has proven itself. Youre having a girl.
And smart person that I am, Andrea said, Im putting my money on your falling in love and losing the bachelor bet, Jack.
Over the next hour, Jennifer carried out her hostess duties by rote.
She was furious at herself. Shed behaved like an idiot in front of Brandons friend Jack MacAllister. Granted, she had just cause to have been frightened of Jack.
But then? Oh, good grief. Had she dismissed the incident as a misunderstanding, regained her composure and performed in a professional manner?
Oh, no, not her. Shed been caught up in a mish-mash of lingering anger, along with acute feminine awareness of Jacks blatant masculinity. Shed turned into Ms. Fumble Fingers, dropping the menus, then added Shrew-of-the-Year to her titles while showing the group to their table.
Jennifer stepped behind the podium and stared at the reservation book, not really seeing the schedule of diners yet to arrive.
Even now, she thought, Jack MacAllister seemed to be somehow reaching out and touching her from way across the room. He was just sothere, and just somale, and just so
Heat feathered down her back, then wove into her to pulse low in her body. She shook her head in self-disgust, then looked at Jack from beneath her lashes.
Why? she wondered frantically. Why did that man have such a powerful and unsettling impact on her? He was just an ordinary man, for Petes sake.
Well, no, that wasnt entirely true. Shed already conceded that Jack was an eleven on a scale of one to ten. He was so ruggedly handsome, so perfectly proportioned, and that thick, dark auburn hair of his was just begging to have feminine fingers sift through it.
And his eyes? Oh, those chocolate fudge sauce eyes mesmerized her and made it difficult to breathe.
Jennifer, stop it, she ordered herself, shifting her gaze back to the book. She was getting a gripright now. All she had to do was bid Jack a pleasant goodbye as he left the dining room, and that would be that. Shed never see him again.
She frowned.
Wait a minute. Was he a guest at Hamilton House? If so, how long would he be staying in Prescott? Would he be popping into the dining room for dinner night after night? It stood to reason hed be registered at his friends hotel, but for how many days?
It didnt matter, she thought, lifting her chin. Shed been thrown off-kilter by Jack MacAllister for reasons she couldnt begin to fathom. But she was on full-alert now, her protective walls firmly in place. She was hereby immune to the spell-weaving Mr. MacAllister, even if he smiled that knock-emdead smile of his.
And the minute she got home tonight she was throwing away the flowers from Megans bridal bouquet. Unsuperstitious or not, she wasnt taking any more chances.
Very good. She was back in control. Everything was fine. Thank heavens all of this ridiculous nonsense was at an end.
Jack listened absently as Aunt Charity related a tale of Brandon, Ben, Taylor and Jennifers mischievous deeds when they were children growing up together in Prescott.
Ah, here we go, he thought. Some people had just entered the dining room, which meantyes, there it wasJennifers smile. It lit up her face and caused those marvelous green eyes of hers to sparkle to the point where he was dazzled from across the room.
Hed watched her move through the tables with elegant, natural grace. She was femininity personified, and the heat throbbing low in his body told him that he was very aware of that fact, both mentally and physically. The fascinating Ms. Mackane was turning him inside out.
Which didnt make one bit of sense.
Jennifer was the type of woman he steered clear of, big time. She was, as the saying went, encumberedwith a five-year-old son, a home, a life-style that virtually shouted that the missing ingredients were a husband and father. No way. That was not his scene, not even close.
Hed also learned that Jennifer wasnt seeing anyone, wasnt into the singles dating scene. She did not, therefore, know how to play the no-strings, no-commitment game.
Jennifer didnt wish to remarry, which was a point in her favor. A shaky point. Hed heard that bit before, but when a guy came along who collected a hefty paycheck, lo and behold, how quickly that tune could change.
Nope, he wanted no part of the lovely Jennifer. She was more than a pleasure to look at, was feisty and funny, and dynamite when she got her temper in a roar, but he would cut a wide path around her during the remainder of his stay in Prescott.
Jack watched as Jennifer led a couple to a small table in the center of the room. The man spoke to her, and Jennifer laughed as she handed the pair their menus.
A flash of heat rocketed through him as he heard the lilting sound of Jennifers laughter. He shifted slightly in his chair and frowned.
Damn, he thought. Jennifer was pushing his libido buttons again. Why was she capable of doing that?
He controlled his actions and reactions toward women. He set the tempo, called the shots, and exited stage left at the first hint of possessiveness on the part of the woman in question.
He treated women with respect, showed them a good time, but he didnt particularly trust them.
He sure didnt know why Jennifer Mackane was able to hang him out to dry, but hed had enough of it. She was upsetting his peace of mind and driving his raging body over the edge.
Why the hell was this happening to him?
Right, Jack? Brandon said, snapping Jack back to attention.
What? Jack said. Oh, sorry. I was off somewhere, I guess.
Shes thirty-three, Aunt Charity said, but she looks younger, dont you think?
Who? Jack said, an expression of pure innocence on his face.
Give it up, hotshot, Aunt Charity said. Ive been sitting here watching you watching Jennifer through this entire meal.
Me? Jack said, raising his eyebrows. Well, I may have glanced at her a time or two, but theres no harm in looking at the scenery, Aunt Charity.
Thats true, dear, Aunt Prudence said, but you need to do more than look at our Jennifer. You should, as the gentleman Im certain you are, speak with Jennifer privately and sincerely apologize for frightening her while you studied her home.
I thoroughly agree, Andrea said decisively.
Buy her some candy from the snazzy shop in the lobby, Aunt Charity said, then paused. On second thought, buy me some, too. I love the stuff.
Hey, I didnt scare Jennifer intentionally, Jack said. It was a simple misunderstanding, thats all.
Which needs to be put to rest properly, Aunt Prudence said.
Youre dead meat, buddy, Brandon said, smiling. Dont argue the point any further, because youd be wasting your breath. Apologize to Jennifer when you get the chance, and be done with it.
Mmm, Jack said, glaring at Brandon.
What I was saying to you when you were daydreaming, Brandon went on, is that youre going to design our house while youre in Prescott. I was bringing the aunts up to date on that.
Oh. Sure. Right, Jack said, nodding. Thats what Im going to do, fantastic architect that I am. Ill have those plans to you and Andrea before I head to Ventura for the MacAllister reunion. Man, Christmas is going to be a zoo with the whole clan together.
It sounds like fun, Andrea said.
I think the kids outnumber the adults by now, Jack said. The MacAllisters are into having babies, thats for sure. Ill have to learn how to talk to munchkin-type people, since Im going to be part of the MacAllister architectural firm in Ventura. No more New York City rat race and brutal winters. Maybe Ill even learn how to surf.
You did the smart thing by leaving New York, Brandon said. Ive never been sorry I dropped out of the fast lane. He smiled warmly at Andrea. Coming home to Prescott was the best thing I ever did.
Thank you, love, Andrea said, matching his smile.
Jennifers hair is naturally curly, Aunt Charity said. No fancy perms or globby makeup for our girl.
Aunt Charity, would you cut it out? Jack said. Im not interested in all the little details about your Jennifer. She has an interesting house that Id love to do some restoration work on, and thats it. Period.
Im just chatting, Aunt Charity said, batting her eyelashes at him.
Jack shook his head and laughed.
Maybe flowers would be a better gift of apology for Jennifer, Aunt Prudence said, pressing one fingertip to her chin. Mmm. No, the chocolates are best, because Jennifer has fresh flowers at the moment. She caught the bridal bouquet at Megan and Bens wedding.
So you said, Jack said, rolling his eyes heavenward. Which means Jennifer is to be the next bride and blah, blah, blah. I hope shell be very happy with whatever guy she snags.
Thats the problem, Aunt Charity said. We cant get Jennifer into snagging mode. Been working on that for years.
So, its settled, then? Aunt Prudence said, leaning toward Jack. Youll purchase some dainty chocolates for Jennifer?
Jack raised both hands in a gesture of defeat. Yes, Ill do it. Ill buy the bribe and humbly apologize to Ms. Mackane. Can we change the subject now?
Yep, Aunt Charity said. Im ready for a sinful dessert. Bring it on.
The dining room at Hamilton House closed at eleven oclock, then preparations were made for breakfast the next morning.
Just before midnight, Jennifer turned off the lights, locked the doors to the dining room, then walked along the hallway to the quiet lobby of the hotel.
She waved goodbye to the clerk on duty behind the registration desk, then headed toward the front doors, buttoning her coat as she went.
As she passed one of the high-back chairs, a figure rose, startling her and causing her to gasp and stumble a bit.
Im sorry, Jack said. I didnt mean to frighten you.
Jennifer frowned. Oh? You seem to be making it your lifes work as far as I can tell.
Jack closed the distance between them and extended a gold foil covered box toward Jennifer.
My peace offering, he said, smiling. A token of sincere apology for upsetting you by staring at your house. Sweets for the sweet, and all that.
Jennifer looked at the box, Jacks face, the box, then narrowed her eyes as she met Jacks gaze again.
Aunt Pru and Aunt Charity put you up to this, didnt they? she said.
Well Jack said slowly.
Jennifer sighed and took the offered box of chocolates. All right. So be it. I accept your apology, and the whole business is forgotten. You didnt have to stay up until midnight to do this.
Jack shrugged. Im a night owl. He paused. May I walk you to your car? What? he thought incredulously. Where did that come from? His intention had been to hand over the dumb candy, then head to his room and the soft bed that was waiting for him.
Jennifer laughed, and a bolt of heat shot through his body, causing him to frown at his now-familiar reaction to the lilting sound.
You really dont want to volunteer to walk me to my car, MrJack, Jennifer said. Its parked in the driveway at my house. Thank you for the candy. My son, Joey, and I will enjoy it. Good night.
Wait a minute, Jack said, as Jennifer started to move around him. How are you getting home if you didnt drive to work?
I walked. Since youre so familiar with the location of my house, you know its only a few blocks away, and the weather is surprisingly mild for mid-November in Prescott. Jennifer shrugged. So, I walked.
Are you nuts? Jack said, his voice rising. You cant stroll along the sidewalk at midnight. Youll get mugged before you go ten feet.
I certainly will not, Jennifer said, matching his volume. This is Prescott, Arizona, notwherever it is youre from.
New York City, and I dont care if this is cute little Prescott. Youve got no business walking home alone at this hour.
I do it all the time.
Well, youre not doing it tonight, Jack said, taking her elbow. Lets go.
Jennifer jerked her arm free of Jacks grasp.
You are, without a doubt, one of the pushiest, rudest men I have ever met, she said. You may be Brandons friend, but that doesnt mean that I have to like youwhich I dont. Good night, Mr. MacAllister.
Jennifer marched toward the front doors of the hotel. Jack fell in step beside her, causing her to stop as she placed one hand on the door latch.
Now what? she said.
Im going for a midnight walk, thats all, Jack said, smiling at her. If I happen to meander in the direction of your housesue me.
Youre really exasperating, do you know that? Jennifer said. Fine. Whatever. Im not wasting any more of my time arguing with you. Your death, however, will not be on my conscience.
What death? I thought you said it was safe out there on the streets.
Oh, it is. However, youre not even wearing the sport coat you had on at dinner. This is not shirtsleeve weather. If you get pneumonia and croak, it will serve you right.
Jack chuckled. A shiver slithered down Jennifers back as she heard the sexy, male rumble.
I dont suppose, he said, that youd wait while I went to my room for a jacket, would you?
Not a chance.
Didnt think so.
End of story, Jennifer said, lifting her chin. Goodbye.
Jennifer pushed open one of the doors and left the hotel.
Jack followed right behind her.
Chapter Three
The night was clear, crisp and incredibly quiet.
A million stars twinkled in the black-velvet sky, creating a silvery beacon to show the way as Jennifer and Jack turned the corner and left the lights of downtown Prescott behind.
Jack shoved his hands into his trouser pockets and hunched his shoulders against the chill as he matched Jennifers long-legged stride along the sidewalk.
He was out of his tiny mind, he thought, mentally shaking his head. He probably would catch pneumonia and croak, which would be his just desserts for this ridiculous performance.
There he was, slowly freezing to death, as he escorted a womanone who didnt wish to be escorted home at midnight. Yep, he was definitely certifiably insane.
Butwell, what could he say? A foreign sense of protectiveness had consumed him when Jennifer had announced she was about to walk home alone. There was no way he could just stand in the warmth of the hotel lobby and watch her set out on her own.
Oh, man, he was cold. He needed to do something to shift his attention from the fact that the blood was freezing in his veins. So, MacAllister, talk to Jennifer.
Well, here we are, he said.
Mmm, Jennifer said.
Sure is quiet.
Mmm.
Im used to New York, you know, the city that never sleeps.
Mmm, Jennifer said again.
Jack sighed in defeat and trudged on.
Jennifer slid a glance at Jack, then looked quickly back down at her feet. She was being rude, she knew, by refusing to engage in the simplest conversation. But she just couldnt chatter like a magpie. Not yet. Not until she regained at least a modicum of control over her raging emotions.
She was acutely awareagainthat Jacks powerful male presence was causing heat to thrum within her despite the chill of the night.
But something more unsettling her now. When shed realized that Jack intended to see her safely to her door even though he didnt have a jacket to wear, shed had to struggle against very unwelcome tears.
Dear heaven, how long had it beenif eversince shed felt protected and watched over by a man?
How long had it beenif eversince she had been made to feel special and important due to the actions of a man?
How long had it beenif eversince shed been able to relax and just be, because someone else had stepped in and taken charge?
Jacks stubborn insistence on walking her safely home had touched a place deep within her, and shed been nearly overwhelmed by the emotions that gesture had evoked.
Oh, Jennifer, stop, she ordered herself.
Jack MacAllister wasnt Prince Charming riding to the rescue of a damsel in distress. He was a smooth operator who was accustomed to having his way with women, a man who rarely heard no, she figured, from a member of the opposite sex.
They had engaged in a battle of wills of sorts, on the subject of her going home alone, and Jack obviously couldnt deal with losing the war. So there he was, freezing his tush off in order to proclaim himself the victor. What a dunce.
Cold? Jennifer said, glancing over at Jack.
He chuckled. Youd better believe it. This was a pretty dumb thing to do, but my big-city instincts kicked in andWell, I was obviously wrong. This town is buttoned down so tight, we havent even seen a stray dog.
Youre admitting that I was right? Jennifer said, surprise evident in her voice.
Yep.
Oh. She smiled. Fancy that.
What did you think? That I was on a big macho trip here? Its hard to be a hero when there arent any dragons to slay. Jack laughed. What I am is a six-foot popsicle.
Jennifer stopped walking, and Jack skidded to a halt.
Jack, this is silly, she said, smiling. Why dont you turn around and head back to the hotel. Jog or something to get there as quickly as possible. I appreciate your gentlemanly gesture here, but as you can see, it really isnt necessary.
Hey, were almost to your house, he said, matching her smile. A jacket of Joeys obviously wouldnt fit me, but if I beg, maybe youll loan me a blanket for my return journey in the wilds.
Id be happy to.
Jack nodded as he continued to look directly into Jennifers eyes, now clearly visible in the silvery glow of the stars.
Neither of them moved. They hardly breathed. Time lost meaning. Heat began to curl and swirl within them, gaining force, pulsing low.
A sudden chill coursed through Jennifer, a wave of fear, of knowing she was losing control of the very essence of herself.
No, she whispered, then spun around and hurried down the sidewalk.
Jack shook his head slightly to shake off the strange, sensuous spell that had been woven over him. Man, he said, then took a much-needed deep breath.
He glanced quickly in the direction Jennifer had gone, then sprinted after her, catching up as she turned onto the cobblestone walk leading to her house. She was fumbling in her purse for her key while holding the box of chocolates in her other hand.
Jennifer Jack started.
No, she said, going up the steps of the wide front porch.
She unlocked the door and entered the house with Jack right behind her. Ill get you a blanket, she said, her back to him as he entered the house and shut the door behind him.
Jennifer, wait a minute, he said. We need to talk about what happened a minute ago.
She spun around, her green eyes flashing. No, we do not, she said, her voice not quite steady. Theres nothing to talk about.
But you felt it, I know you did. The heat, the pull, the
Lust, she said, lifting her chin. Lets give it the tacky title it deserves, shall we? Thats what it waslust. And as far as Im concerned, the incident is forgotten. I certainly dont wish to discuss it.
Jack frowned, then shook his head slowly. No, that wasnt lust, he said thoughtfully. Nope. No way. I know lust when Im caught up in it and thatwhatever it was that took place between us was something very, very different.
Jennifer dropped her purse and the candy box onto the sofa facing the fireplace, where embers of a dying fire still glowed. Her coat joined the lot moments later.
Whatever, she said, looking at Jack again. You have your opinion. I have mine. It really doesnt matter because the subject is closed.
What are you afraid of? Jack said, studying her intently. I mean, hey, Im a tad shook up myself here, because Ive never experienced anything quite like that before. But Im not afraid of it. I want to know what it was.
Well, I dont, she said, wrapping her hands around her elbows. Jack, please, let it go. Its late, Im tired, and I have to be up early in the morning to get Joey ready for kindergarten.
Jack swept his gaze over the large room that was furnished with worn but comfortable chairs and a sofa. The tables were oak and had seen better days.
Wheres your baby-sitter? he said.
When Im on this shift at the hotel, Joey sleeps at Mildred Clarks house next door. Mildred is a wonderful woman who is like a grandmother to Joey. In fact, he calls her Grandma Clark andOh, forget it. Why am I explaining all this to you?
Jack smiled. Because I asked?
Dont smile, she said, nearly yelling. Dont you dare smile that smile at me.
Huh? he said, definitely no longer smiling.
Jennifer pressed one hand to her forehead for a moment. Im losing it. I really am. This is insane. I dont behave this way. What on earth is the matter with me?
Gotcha, Jack said, pointing at her. See? You do want to know what that strange spell was that came over us out there in the cold, dark night. Whatever it was is what on earth is the matter with you. Get it?
What Im going to get, mister, she said, is a blanket for you. Then you are marching yourself out of here. Get it?
Got it.
Good.
Jennifer nodded decisively, then left the room, returning minutes later with a blanket.
Jack burst into laughter. Youre kidding, he said. Youre sending me packing wrapped in a Winnie-the-Pooh blanket?
Youll be cute as a button, she said, shoving the brightly colored blanket at him. Goodbye.
Jack tucked the blanket under one arm. Okay. Im gone. Lock up behind me.
At the door, Jack hesitated and turned. Jennifer was right behind him; their toes were nearly touching.
I think he said quietly. I truly believethat you have the same questions and want the same answers that I do. Its all very confusing, dont you think?
I
Shh.
Jack slid his free hand to the nape of Jennifers neck, lowered his head and claimed her mouth with his.
Jennifers eyes flew wide open in shock, but in the next instant her lashes drifted down as heat suffused her. Of their own volition her arms floated upward, then her hands encircled Jacks neck.
She savored the feel, the taste, the wondrous sensation of Jacks lips on hers, and offered no resistance as his tongue slipped into her mouth to seek and find her tongue.
Jack dropped the bulky blanket and gathered Jennifer close to his body, deepening the kiss as desire rocketed through him. He raised his head a fraction of an inch, then slanted his mouth in the opposite direction, drinking in the tantalizingly sweet taste of Jennifer. Heat coiled low and tight within him, arousing him almost to the point of pain.
Jennifer, his mind hummed. Hed known, just somehow known that it would be far, far more than just a simple kiss. It would be ecstasy.
Jennifer was responding to him, holding nothing back, returning his kiss with total abandon. He felt ten feet tall because Jennifer was, in this moment stolen out of time, his.
Jack groaned in pure male pleasure as he pressed Jennifer even more tightly against him, relishing the feel of her lush breasts being crushed to his chest.
Oh, his mind thundered, how he wanted her, wanted to make love with Jennifer Mackane through the remaining hours of the night.
The rumbling sound of Jacks sensual moan penetrated the mist encasing Jennifer, bringing her back to reality with a thud, jarring her from the rosy, sensuous place shed floated to.
She broke the kiss, jerked out of Jacks embrace, then took a shaky step backward as she drew a steadying breath.
Jack shook his head slightly. Whew. That wasYou areWhew.
That was, Jennifer said, hearing the thread of breathlessness in her voice, a mistake, should never have happened.
Why not? Jack said, frowning. It was sensational and equally shared.
I Jennifer started, then threw up her hands. Yes, all right, I cant deny that Itook part in that kiss.
Jack smiled. Kisses. Plural.
Whatever, she said, hugging herself. The fact remains that itthey, those kisseswere a mistake. I dont behave like thisever. I dont know what came over me, but Id appreciate it if youd forget that this incident ever took place.
Incident? he said, raising his eyebrows. Lady, it was a happening, an event, that defies description. Forget it? No way. Are you telling me that you can honestly forget how you felt, how you responded to me?
Yes. No. IJack, please, just go. Im embarrassed and upset andJust leave.
Hey, he said gently, dont be so hard on yourself. Youre a young, healthy, beautiful woman, with wants and needs that are nothing to be ashamed of. We felt itboth of us. The desirenot lust, desire. Theres nothing wrong with that.
Yes, there is, she said, her voice rising, because I dont want any part of feeling that heat, that need, thatNo. I have no room for all that in my lifenot anymore. Not now. Not ever again.
Why are you doing this to yourself? Jack said, matching her volume. So, okay, you loved your husband, but, my God, Jennifer, its been five years since that man died. He wouldnt want you to grieve for a lifetime, to cease to exist as a woman. You cant mourn him forever.
You dont understand.
No, I sure as hell dont, he said, restlessly raking a hand through his hair. What I do understandwhat I knowis that you want me as much as I want you.
No, she whispered, shaking her head.
Jack sighed in exasperation, then leaned down and grabbed the blanket from the floor. Im leaving now, Jennifer, he said, but this discussion isnt over. Theres something happening between us, and I want to know what it is. Ill be back.
Jack turned and left the house, closing the door with a tad more force than was necessary.
Jennifer walked to the door on trembling legs, snapped the lock into place, then rested her heated forehead on the cool, smooth wood.
Dear heaven, she thought frantically, what had she done? Shed responded to Jacks kisses like some wanton hussy, had pressed her body to his, had felt his arousal surging full and heavy against her and had inwardly rejoiced in the knowledge that such a magnificent man wanted her. Her.
Sensuous images had flitted through her passion-laden mind of clothes disappearing by magic, of tumbling naked onto her bed and reaching eagerly for Jack, bringing him to her to fill her emptiness, to awaken her sleeping femininity with glorious lovemaking.
Ill be back.
Jacks fiercely spoken words echoed in her head, and she spun around, her eyes darting across the room in a near-hysterical search for somewhere to hide.
To hide from Jack? she said aloud, as tears stung her eyes. No, heaven help me, to hide from myself.
This was her fault. She wasnt who she really was when she was with Jack. She didnt know whyjust did not know why, but she did know she would be certain never to be alone with Jack MacAllister again.
Exhaustion swept over her like a heavy curtain, and she stumbled across the room, turning off the lights as she went. A short time later she slipped into bed, a weary sigh escaping from her lips as her head touched the soft, welcoming pillow.
Sleep. She needed to sleep, to escape from the turmoil in her mind, to put hours of distance between herself and what had transpired with Jack in her living room.
Sleep, she thought foggily. Then morning would come and everything would be fine in the light of the new day.
When sunlight tiptoed into Jennifers bedroom the next morning and nudged her awake, she stirred, opened her eyes slowlyand thought of Jack.
With a muttered Damn him, she threw back the blankets on the bed and stomped into the bathroom for her shower.
Dressed in jeans, a navy-blue sweatshirt and her Big Bird slippers, she entered the kitchen twenty minutes later in a less-than-chipper mood. With a mug of hot coffee in one hand, she began to assemble Joeys breakfast with the other, a frown on her face.
Mom, Joey said, coming into the kitchen.
What! Jennifer snapped. Then her shoulders slumped. Oh, Joey, Im sorry. I sound like a grumpy bear. Good morning, sweetheart. Did you sleep well? She paused. How did you get into the house?
You didnt answer my knock at the front door, and the doorbells broke, and I had to use the key from under the mat to get in.
Jennifer set her mug on the counter and lifted Joey into her arms. I apologize, she said, then kissed him on the nose. I didnt start my day with my best foot forward, but Im fine now. Ill fix you breakfast, then walk you to school.
Kay, he said, wiggling to get down.
Jennifer set him on his feet.
But dont hold my hand when we turn the corner by the school, Mom, Joey said, sliding onto his chair at the table. Thats baby stuff, and Im big now.
Yes, you certainly are getting big, she said quietly. Very quickly, too. Youll be grown and gone before I know it.
Joey frowned. Gone where? I belong here with you. Im never going to leave you, Mommy. Never, ever, never. Cause if I did, youd be all alone. He straightened in his chair and smiled. No, you wouldnt. Not if you were the next bride cause you caught the flowers. Then youd have a groom guy and you wouldnt be alone at all.
To Jennifers dismay she was assaulted by the memory of being held so tightly in Jacks embrace, wrapped in the safe, strong cocoon of his arms as he kissed her.
Dont start that again, Joey. I am not going to be the next bride. Ill be just fine when Im alone after youre grown up. Clear?
No, he said, sticking out his bottom lip in a pout. Im going to talk to Uncle Ben and Uncle Brandon about this. Im going to tell them that youre breaking the rules about catching Aunt Megans flowers. You told me I should never break rules, Mom.
Oh, my stars, Jennifer said, rolling her eyes heavenward. I dont believe this. We are now changing the subject. What do you want for breakfast? Cereal? Toast? Eggs?
Hot dog with mustard.
Why not? she said, throwing up her hands.
And potato chips, Joey added.
Dont push your luck, sir. Ill trade you potato chips for a banana.
And orange soda.
Milk.
Joey sighed. Kay.
Jennifer began to prepare the agreed-upon breakfast as Joey chattered about beating Grandma Clark at Candy Land the previous evening.
Jennifer laughed. Poor Grandma Clark. You played Candy Land again? She can probably do it in her sleep by now.
Huh?
Never mind.
Guess what, Mom. Its my turn to feed the gerbil at school today. That is so cool. Can I have a gerbil of my own? Ill keep it in my bedroom.
Oh, ugh, no, Jennifer said, smiling. Those things remind me of mice. Just enjoy the one at school.
Can I have a dog? Know what? Sheriff Montana told me he might get a dog. If I had a dog, then my dog and Sheriff Montanas dog could be friends. Wouldnt that be really great?
One hot dog with mustard, plus a banana, Jennifer said, placing a plate in front of Joey. Thereyou have a dog.
Thats a hot dog, Joey said, giggling.
A dog is a dog. Ill get your milk.
Jennifer crossed the room and took a carton of milk from the refrigerator. As she turned again, she saw Joey jump from his chair. Where are you going? she said.
Somebody is knocking at the front door, he said, running from the room.
So early? she said, frowning. Wait, Joey. Dont open thedarn it.
Jennifer hurried after Joey as quickly as her Big Bird slippers would allow, the carton of milk still in one hand. Joey flung open the door, and Jennifer stumbled slightly before coming to a halt behind him.
Hi, Joey said.
Hi. Im Jack MacAllister, a friend of your moms. You must be Joey. I borrowed your blanket last night and I came to return it. I also brought some fresh cinnamon rolls from Hamilton House as a thank-you gift for allowing me to use your Pooh bear.
Jack shifted his gaze slowly to look at Jennifer. Good morning, Jennifer, he said, smiling. May I come in?
Sure, Joey said, stepping back and bumping into his mother.
Jack entered the house, and Joey slammed the door.
Jack swept his gaze over Jennifer, chuckling as he gave special attention to her feet. Love the slippers, he said, grinning at her. Milk? Great, he added, nodding toward the carton in her hand. That will hit the spot with these cinnamon rolls. Come on, Joey. Lets dig into these goodies while theyre still warm. He dropped the blanket onto the sofa.
As Joey and Jack headed for the kitchen, Jennifer just stood where she was, Big Bird slippers on her feet, a carton of milk in her hand.
My life, she said, a rather bemused tone to her voice as she stared into space, is suddenly out of control.
Chapter Four
Jennifer headed toward the kitchen, then stopped, staring down at her silly slippers.
She should make a detour to her bedroom, she thought, and change into her tennis shoes. No, forget it. Jack had already seen her funny feet, and besides, shed never do anything to hurt Joeys feelings.
Joey, she thought, starting toward the kitchen again. He shouldnt eat one of those enormous cinnamon rolls from Hamilton House. Hed be on such a sugar rush, hed be bouncing off the walls the entire morning at school.
New York City, Jack was saying when Jennifer entered the kitchen.
Wow. Cool, Joey said. They have big apples there, or something.
Jack laughed. Or something. But Im moving to Ventura, California. I just stopped off in Prescott to visit my buddy Brandon. Im going to be a member of MacAllister Architects, Incorporated.
Why? Joey said, then took a bite of the gooey roll.
Why? Jack frowned. Well, because I was ready for a change, and it will be nice to be working with family.
Whoa, Joey, Jennifer said, bringing a knife to the table where the pair sat. Half a cinnamon roll for breakfast. You can have the rest later.
Kay, Joey said, as Jennifer cut the roll in two.
Youll join us, wont you, Jennifer? Jack said.
I dont eat breakfast, she said, not looking at him. A cup of coffee is all I have.
Then bring your cup and sit down, Jack said.
Yeah, Mom, Joey said. You should do that because we have company.
Mmm. She glared at Jack. Very early company. She paused. Oh, all right. Would you like some coffee, Jack?
Yes, thank you, he said, smiling. Sounds great. I take it black.
Dandy, she said, spinning around and nearly falling over her slippers.
Dont think, she ordered herself as she went to the coffeemaker. She would not entertain any thoughts, any memoriesabsolutely noneabout what had happened between her and Jack the previous night.
She would not allow her bones to dissolve when Jack MacAllister smiled at her.
She would pay no attention to the flutter of heat that was now swirling and pulsing through her body.
She couldnt care less if Jack had removed his jacket to reveal a sweater that was the exact shade of his chocolate fudge sauce eyes.
She could handle this. No problem. Jack was just a man, who was sitting at her table stuffing his face with a cinnamon roll. A gorgeous man. A man whose shoulders looked a mile wide in that sweater. A sweater that encased strong arms that had held her so tightly, so safely in his embrace. An embrace that had included kisses that were ecstasy in its purest form and
Thats enough, she ordered herself. Get a grip.
She plunked a mug of coffee in front of Jack, retrieved her own from the counter, then poured a glass of milk for Joey. She sat down next to her son at the table and put the glass in front of him.
Every drop, sweetie, she said.
Kay, Joey said, then looked at Jack again. How come you had my Pooh blanket? Did you leave yours in New York City?
Something like that, he said, smiling. I used your blanket like a coat, because I wasnt wearing mine and it was cold.
Oh, Joey said, nodding. Do you have a dog?
No, Jack said, then took a bite of roll. Mmm. Delicious.
Do you have a little boy? Joey asked.
No, Jack said.
Do you have a wife lady?
No, Jack said.
Joey leaned forward. Do you have a suit and tie?
Joey, Jennifer said quickly, feeling a flush of embarrassment heat her cheeks, eat your breakfast. Its getting late.
I have a suit and tie, Jack said. Why did you ask me that?
Well, because you need to have a suit and tie if youre going to be a
Time to go, Jennifer said, getting to her feet.
Joey glanced at the clock on the wall. No, its not. The big hand isnt at the top, Mom.
Oh. Jennifer sighed and sank back into her chair.
Back up, Joey, Jack said. Im definitely missing something here. I need to have a suit and tie to be awhat?
A groom guy, Joey said.
Oh, good grief, Jennifer muttered.
See, my mom caught Aunt Megans wedding flowers and that means my mom is going to be the next bride, but she needs a groom guy if shes going to be a bride. Then Id have a daddy I dont have to give back. Joey paused. Just like Sammy has. See?
More coffee, Jack? Jennifer said, looking at a spot about four inches above his head.
No, Im fine, Jack said, his gaze riveted on Joey. Let me make certain I understand this, Joey.
Oh, lets not, Jennifer said.
Jack ignored her comment. He leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms over his chest.
I think I get the picture, Joey, he said, except for the part where you have to give the daddy back.
Oh, Joey said. Thats Uncle Ben, Uncle Brandon and Uncle Taylor. We do men stuff together, but He shrugged. When were done doing men stuff, I have to give them back.
Ah, Jack said, nodding slowly.
Sheriff Montana might be a good groom guy cause hes thinking about getting a dog, Joey went on. But I dont know if Sheriff Montana has a suit and tie. He frowned. The thing is, though, my mom doesnt want to be the next bride.
Ah, Jack said again.
Thats breaking the rules of catching the flowers, Joey said.
Indeed, Jack said.
I cant break rules, so I dont think my mom should get to. Do you?
My, my, look at that big hand on the clock, Joey, Jennifer said. Run and brush your teeth and get your jacket. Then Ill walk you to school.
Kay.
Joey hopped from the room on both feet, announcing that he was Tigger. As he exited, the coffee mugs jiggled and clinked on the table.
That is one terrific kid, Jack said, smiling at Jennifer. Man, hes neat.
Yes, well, I think hes pretty special, she said, tracing the rim of her coffee mug with one fingertip. Hes all boy, thats for sure. Full of energyOf course, as a typical five year old, he has definite opinions about things, and doesnt hesitate to express them. You have to discount a great deal of what he says because he has a tendency to blither on and on, whether he knows what hes talking about or not. Therefore
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Joan Pickart
Тип: электронная книга
Жанр: Современные любовные романы
Язык: на английском языке
Издательство: HarperCollins
Дата публикации: 16.04.2024
Отзывы: Пока нет Добавить отзыв
О книге: ANOTHER MACALLISTER BLESSING?He was just passing through town, when his life changed forever. Jack MacAllister, tried-and-true bachelor, suddenly found himself a little boy′s #1 daddy pick. But the adorable tyke′s single mom didn′t seem as sold…and Jack sensed she was keeping secrets. But something about Jennifer Mackane made him believe he could trust her–could even love her–but he′d learned never to trust a lady.Then he discovered that not all of Jennifer′s secrets were old. One involved a baby, yet to be born.Jack′s baby.Experience more laughter and love as the MacAllister family increases its fold!