A Forever Family: Reunited By Their Baby

CHAPTER THREE

AFTER A PHONE CALL to the hospital in Athens, Nik showered and shaved. Once they’d eaten a good meal, he felt restored and imagined Mrs. Myers did, too. He’d almost slipped and called her Fran in front of the proprietor, but realized he needed to keep thinking of her as Mrs. Myers, a married woman.

En route to the hospital, he phoned Sandro who told him the doctor had moved Demi to her own room in the pediatric wing. They didn’t have to wear masks and gowns any longer and were able to hold her.

“That’s wonderful,” Fran declared when he’d conveyed the good news to her. “After what she’s been through, she needs to be cuddled.”

Nik’s thoughts exactly. He parked around the side entrance to the hospital with easier access to the pediatric unit.

On the drive over he’d inhaled his companion’s flowery fragrance. By the time they got out of the car and entered the hospital, he could hardly take his eyes off her stunning figure clothed in a summery print skirt and white blouse. She wore white leather sandals. With her hair flowing to her shoulders from a side part, she made an enticing vision of femininity he doubted she was aware of.

He thought about her being in Greece on her own. American women had a tendency to be independent. For her and Leandros’s wife to be traveling alone shouldn’t have surprised him. But he thought Fran’s husband a fool to let his attractive wife vacation in a foreign country without him.

He wondered how Leandros handled being apart from his wife, but he had no right to speculate. The media had painted Nik to be the most eligible playboy in Greece, a label he was forced to wear. But it would do as a cover to hide his real reason for not being married by now. Therefore he wasn’t in any position to judge what went on in another man’s life or marriage.

In truth he felt shame for having any of those thoughts where Mrs. Myers and Kellie Petralia were concerned. If the two women hadn’t been out together, Fran wouldn’t have spotted their precious Demi. That was a miracle in and of itself. So was her desire to make sure the baby hadn’t been left alone at the hospital.

Interesting that it had been Fran, not Kellie, who’d planted herself next to Demi in the ICU. He wondered why…

For a moment Nik’s thoughts flew to Lena, the last woman he’d dated. After two dates she’d suggested they move in together. She was a desirable woman, but he didn’t believe in living together. Because of a painful issue from his past that had prevented him from proposing to any woman yet, he didn’t want to encourage her. In order not to be cruel, he’d stopped seeing her.

In truth, none of his romantic relationships had ever gotten past the point where he’d felt he could take the next step. As for Lena, he couldn’t help wondering what would have happened if she’d been the one who found Demi. Would she have dropped everything and changed her plans in order to comfort the baby? Would she have shown such a strong maternal instinct?

He doubted it, yet the minute he’d posed those questions, he chastized himself. It wasn’t fair to compare any of the women in his past to Fran. The moment she’d discovered Demi in that garden, she’d felt a special responsibility to care for her. The whole situation was unlike any other. She was unique, but his thoughts had to stop there. She was another man’s wife. He needed to remember that before he got in real trouble.

What did he mean by before? He already was in trouble, because deep in his gut, he felt she was the kind of woman he might trust enough to reveal his painful secret to. Why her and why now?

Following his brothers’ directions, he found Demi’s room. When he walked inside with Fran, he saw an exhausted-looking Cosimo walking around holding the baby, but she was fussing. Sandro had passed out in an easy chair brought in for them.

Nik nodded to his brother and walked over to take the baby from him, needing to nestle her against his chest. He was still incredulous she was alive. She recognized him, but there was no accompanying smile because she wasn’t herself. Her world had literally been blown apart.

“It’s me, Demi, your Uncle Nikolos. I’m here.” He kissed her neck and cheeks, careful not to hurt the cuts that were already healing. “Where’s my little sunshine girl? Hmm?” But she still seemed restless, the way she’d been with Cosimo.

Fran walked up next to him and touched her black curls. “Hi, Demi. Do you remember me? It’s Fran.”

The baby heard her voice and turned her head to focus on her. All of a sudden she started to cry and held out her arms to Fran, almost leaping to get to her. Nik couldn’t believe a bond had formed so fast that his niece would go to Fran with an eagerness that was astonishing. Even more amazing was the way Demi settled down and buried her face in Fran’s neck, reminding him of the way she always was with Melina.

Fran rocked her and sang a little song. Nik took advantage of the time to take Cosimo aside and talk to him. “I’ve got rooms for you and Sandro at the hotel where Fran found the baby.” He gave him the directions. “Take Sandro with you and get some sleep. Come back here tomorrow morning and we’ll use the hospital helicopter to get to Thessalonika before we fly home. The bodies should be loaded on the plane by then.”

Sadness filled Cosimo’s eyes. “You’re sure you won’t need help?”

“Positive. Fran and I will take turns tonight.”

“She’s willing to stay?”

Nik nodded. His brother looked relieved. “But you haven’t had any sleep.”

“I’ll get it now.”

“I’m afraid Demi hasn’t slept. She’s looking for Melina. I’ve never felt so helpless in my life.”

“I have a feeling she might get her rest now that Fran is here. You two go on.”

Cosimo nodded and woke up their brother. Nik walked them out of the room and down the hall. After saying goodnight, he went to the desk where he asked for a cot to be brought in.

Within a few minutes, housekeeping delivered one and left. Finally he was alone with Fran and turned off the light. Though he was beyond tired, he still wanted to talk to her before he got some sleep. Heaving a deep sigh, he sank down in one of the chairs and sat back, marveling over her rapport with his niece.

“I think you’ve gotten her to sleep.”

“Yes,” she whispered. “The dear little thing must be so tired and bewildered.”

“With you holding her, it’s apparent she’ll get the rest she needs. When you’re too tired, I’ll take over.”

“I’m not desperate for sleep like you. Kellie and I slept in until ten this morning. Why don’t you undo the cot and lie down? I’ll waken you when it’s your turn.”

“Promise?”

She gave him a half smile. “Believe it.”

In the semidarkness, her generous mouth drew his attention, spiking his guilt for having those kinds of thoughts about her. “Where did you come from?”

“Not from the whirlwind, if that’s what you mean,” she drawled.

He crossed his legs at the ankles. “You might as well have. Earlier today my brothers and I were combing through the pines behind the resort, dying a little with every step because there was no trace of Demi.

“Then the call came from Leandros telling us to get to the Leminos hospital as fast as possible because a miracle may have happened. Suddenly, out of nowhere, I find this American woman taking care of my niece as if she were her mother. I’m still not sure if I’m dreaming this or not.”

Fran kissed Demi’s curls before sitting down in the other chair. “Then we’re both having the same inexplicable dream. Day before yesterday I flew from Philadelphia to Athens to spend my vacation with Kellie. Leandros had already flown to Rhodes on business.

“At six yesterday morning, she and I left the city because we knew we had a long drive ahead of us. We’d planned to drive around new areas of Greece neither of us had visited before. She wanted me to see the Petralias’ latest resort, so we decided to stay a night at the Persphone before moving on.

“But by late afternoon a fierce storm arose and I suggested we pull off the highway in Leminos to find shelter. Kellie wanted to keep going because the resort was only twelve miles farther, but then the hail started, so we hurried inside the first hotel we came to.

“When we learned from the staff that a tornado had destroyed some suites at the Persephone, we both fell apart. Not only because we realized we might have been caught and lost our lives, too, but because she knew Leandros would be devastated to think such a thing had happened to the guests staying at the resort. He would take it very hard and he was so far away on business. There was no way to reach him by phone.”

Nik sat foward. “For a while it was chaos. Do you know about the other tornado?”

Her beautiful eyes widened. “What are you talking about?”

“There was one at the airport yesterday morning.”

“You’re kidding!”

He shook his head. “I came close to being affected. After seeing my sister and her family off around 6:30 a.m., I went over to the air cargo area to do business when a funnel cloud struck. No one was injured, but it was terrifying to see how much damage it did in the space of a short time.”

“Now I understand why it was so windy when we left, but we haven’t had any news here.”

“That’s not surprising. I was just leaving my office at the end of the day when my brother phoned and told me about a second tornado.”

“We get so many in the States, but I didn’t realize you got them, too.”

“Once in a while,” he murmured, “but yesterday’s phenomena probably won’t happen for another couple of decades or more.”

“Let’s pray not.”

“When I turned on the TV, what I heard was enough to make my blood run cold.” Just the way he said it made her chill. “My brothers and I took off in the plane for Thessalonika. By the time we reached the resort, we learned that Melina and Stavros were two of the victims. To our horror, there was no sign of Demi.”

“I don’t know how any of you are holding up.” The sadness in her voice touched him to the core.

“It’s our parents we’re worried about. That’s why it’s so important you come to the villa with me tomorrow. They love their grandchildren, but Demi has a special place in their hearts because she’s the only girl.”

“I can understand that.” Fran looked down at Demi who was cuddled in her arms, fast asleep. “This little child is too precious for words. She’ll always be a special joy to them.”

“And to me.”

A tremor rocked his body. On Melina’s birthday, she’d taken Nik aside and asked him to be Demi’s guardian if anything ever happened to her and Stavros. Without hesitation he’d told her yes, but he was unable to entertain the thought of anything ever happening to his sister and her husband. Remembering her request, the hairs lifted on the back of his neck. Had she asked him because of a premonition?

“Demi’s blessed to have such loving family.”

Nik eyed Fran speculatively. “Since you’re married and have such a close rapport with my niece, I’m wondering if you have children.”

She didn’t meet his eyes. “No.”

No?

“How does your husband let you leave him for such a long time?” The question he’d sworn not to ask left his lips before he could stop it.

“We’re divorced.”

His thoughts reeled. “How long ago?”

“A year.”

What husband in his right mind wouldn’t have held on to a woman like her? Nik sensed he’d be wandering into forbidden territory with more questions, yet he was intrigued by her. Now that he knew those pertinent facts, he was determined to learn more and no longer felt guilty about it. With time and patience, he’d get his answers. “Are you ready to let me hold her now?”

“I’m fine. I was going to suggest you go to sleep.”

“Maybe I will for a little while.”

He got to his feet to undo the cot. After taking off his shoes, he stretched out. Another heavy sigh escaped him. “This feels so good, I fear I might never get up again. You’re sure you don’t mind?”

“Positive. Holding this angel is a joy. You need sleep or you won’t be any good to your family tomorrow.”

“You’re right. If I haven’t said it already, I’m grateful you’re here for Demi.”

“I’m the one who’s grateful.”

His instincts told him those weren’t empty words. He needed to find out what emotions were driving them, but before he could ask, oblivion took over.

The next time he was aware of his surroundings, it was morning.

Nik sat up and got to his feet, removing the blanket Fran must have thrown over him. His gaze shot to her. She was asleep in the easy chair while Demi slept in the hospital crib.

He had no idea how long Fran had stayed awake, but she’d chosen not to disturb him for any reason. Unable to help himself, he looked down, studying her facial features. With no makeup and her dark blond hair somewhat disheveled, she was lovelier than most women who worked at it all day.

Since Demi was still asleep, he tiptoed out to the hall to phone his brothers. They were on their way over with a new outfit for the baby. As he talked with them, the doctor slipped inside the room. By the time Nik hung up and returned, he discovered Fran standing by the crib talking to the doctor. She’d brushed her hair and applied lipstick, looking amazingly fresh for someone who’d probably been up most of the night.

The doctor turned to him with a smile. “The lab has confirmed she’s your niece. I’m happy to say her cuts are starting to heal. She’s doing fine in every regard and can be released. Keep her hydrated. What she needs now is the love of her family which I can see isn’t going to be a problem. Just so you know, the media has been inundating the hospital for information.

“In order to make them go away, I gave a statement that I hope will satisfy them and give your family a chance to breathe before they descend on you. When you’re ready to leave, come to the desk and someone will escort you to the roof where the helicopter is waiting.”

Nik shook his hand. “Thank you for everything you’ve done, doctor. The Angelis family is indebted to you.”

The older man’s eyes flashed. “And no doubt to Kyria Myers who made the baby feel safe and loved until you arrived. We could use more like her around the ICU.” He eyed Fran. “Are you a nurse?”

“No. But I work in a hospital for patients’ rights and make certain they get the follow up care they need after they go home.”

“You wouldn’t like a job with us, would you?” he threw out.

“I’ve already got a position in mind for her,” Nik inserted, flashing her a glance. She looked at him in confusion. “Of course I haven’t discussed it with her yet.”

The thought had been percolating in his mind since yesterday, but until he knew she was divorced, he’d kept it at bay. Before he could explain more, the doctor said, “I’ll be at the desk. When you’re ready to leave, I’ll escort you to the private elevator that will take you to the roof.” He left as Nik’s brothers arrived with a new quilt and stretchy suit they’d purchased.

All the talking woke up Demi who turned to the bars and tried to get up. She babbled and looked longingly at Fran, asking to be rescued. Everyone chuckled as Fran leaned over and plucked her from her prison. Giving her a kiss on both cheeks she was rewarded with a smile on Demi’s face that had been missing until now. That happy countenance cemented the idea Nik planned to propose to Fran when the time was right.

She spoke to the baby. “Look who’s here—your favorite uncles!”

He was witnessing another kind of miracle, one of communication despite the fact that Fran didn’t understand Greek, nor did the baby comprehend English.

Nik and his brothers took turns kissing her, but the baby clung to Fran. The nurse came in with a bag of diapers and enough formula to satisfy the baby until they reached home. Fran changed her and put on the new pink outfit, then looked around. “Who wants to feed her?”

Sandro took Demi from her arms, but the baby wanted none of it. “Well, that settles it.” He kissed her curls before returning her to Fran’s arms. “I’m afraid you’re stuck, Kyria Myers.”

“Call me Fran, and I don’t mind at all.”

The nurse handed her a bottle. Soon Demi had settled down to drink, content for the moment. She eventually burped a couple of times, announcing she’d drained it. More chuckles ensued from everyone. Despite the sadness ahead when they returned to Mykonos, Demi was the bright light that kept them all from sinking right now.

Nik walked over to Fran. “We’re ready to go. I’ll carry Demi to the helicopter. After we’re onboard the plane, we’ll eat breakfast.” He relieved her of the baby and wrapped her in the quilt.

“Come on, Demitza. We’re going for a ride.”

Fran followed him from the room with his brothers. Once they rode the elevator to the roof, they helped her into the helicopter while he climbed in with Demi. He handed her over to Cosimo who strapped her in the infant seat next to Fran. His brothers sat on the opposite side.

When everyone was settled in, Nik noticed Fran reach for Demi’s little hand before he took his place in the copilot’s seat. The gesture touched him and told him even more about the compassionate woman who’d put her vacation plans aside to make Demi secure. Again he wondered how many other women he’d known would have done that.

In a few minutes they lifted off and made a beeline for the airport. He heard his brothers talking to Fran. “We want to thank you again for all your help so far. Demi hasn’t been around other people besides family, so it’s a real surprise that she’s taken to you.”

“I’m sure it’s because I was the one who found her in the garden. She’d been lying there helpless all night.”

“I think it’s more than that,” Sandro confided. “You have a loving way with her like our sister.”

“Well, thank you. It’s been my pleasure to stay with her, believe me.”

“How long will you be in Greece?”

“I fly home in less than two weeks.”

Maybe not, Nik mused. Before he introduced Fran to his parents, he needed to have a private talk with her. The best place to do that would be aboard the jet in the compartment he used for his office.

“I guess you know our parents would like you to stay with us on Mykonos for part of the time.”

“That’s kind of them, Cosimo, but it’s really up to my friend Kellie Petralia who invited me here. She’d planned this time for us to be together.”

“She and her husband are welcome to stay with us, too,” Sandro chimed in.

“Your parents told me as much on the phone.”

“That’s because we’re all grateful to you.”

Grateful didn’t exactly cover Fran’s deepest feelings. She’d been empty for too long. To suddenly be taking care of a baby who was content to be in her arms made her feel whole for the first time in years. Even though she would have to relinquish Demi tomorrow, she would savor this sweet time with her today and tonight.

In her teens she’d been told she couldn’t have children. It had been like a light going out, but over the years she’d come around to the idea of adoption.

During the short flight to Thessalonika, Fran looked out the helicopter window at the sparkling blue Aegean below, wishing she could concentrate on the spectacular panorama. Instead she found herself reliving the painful moment when Rob had shattered her dreams of being a mother.

Even if it were possible to love another man again, the idea of meeting one who said he’d be willing to adopt wasn’t an option for her. Maybe one day she might meet and fall in love with a widower who had a child or children. At least then she could take over the mother role to help fill that empty space in her heart.

She simply couldn’t see it happening, but Kellie wouldn’t let her think that way. Dear Kellie…Her friend was in turmoil right now.

Her eyes strayed to Demi who was wide awake for the trip. She made sounds and was growing restless at being confined. In order to placate her, Fran got out another bottle of formula to keep her happy. Demi held it and mostly played with it, only sucking on the nipple without absorbing a lot of liquid. Her two bottom teeth had come in, helping her to tug on it.

Fran was amused to see the funny behavior coming from this child who could win the most beautiful baby of the year award. That was because she had the classic features of her mother and glossy black hair like Nik’s…and his brothers, Fran hastened to remind herself.

But Nik possessed an unconscious sensuality and sophistication that stood out from his siblings. She put her head back for a minute and closed her eyes so she wouldn’t keep staring at the back of his head where a few tendrils of black hair lay curled against his neck. Once in a while he turned to say something to his brothers and she glimpsed his striking male profile and chiseled jaw.

Dressed in the light brown sport shirt and dark trousers he’d changed into at the hotel last night, there was no man to match him. The celebrated bachelor’s appeal went far beyond the physical. He was warm and generous. She doubted he had a selfish bone in his body. Nik was so different from Rob… .

Before long the helicopter landed, and they were driven to the Angelis Corporation jet, the size of a 727, waiting on the tarmac. While Sandro and Cosimo helped her and Demi onboard, Nik excused himself to talk to the people who’d taken care of putting his family’s bodies in the cargo area.

A few minutes later he walked down the aisle toward her. After speaking to his brothers on the way, he came to sit on the other side of her and Demi. His half smile turned her heart over.

“The flight to Mykonos won’t take too long. Then it’s just another short helicopter ride to the villa. After we reach cruising speed, we’ll eat breakfast, then I’d like to have a private talk with you in the compartment behind the galley. My brothers will entertain Demi.”

She nodded, but couldn’t help but wonder what was on his mind. He’d said something about a position in front of the doctor. What exactly had he meant?

She strapped herself in, and the jet took off. Like clockwork, the minute the Fasten Seat Belt light went off, the steward started serving their food. Fran needed a good meal, if only to brace herself for their talk.

Once the steward removed their trays, she undid Demi long enough to change her diaper. Nik got up from his seat and reached for another bottle in the hospital diaper bag. Once Demi was strapped in again, he kissed her and gave her the bottle to keep her occupied.

Touching Fran’s elbow he whispered, “Follow me.”

She did his bidding, but it was but a few seconds before they could hear Demi cry. Fran felt like the biggest meanie on earth, but she kept going. Once inside the compartment set up as a den with a computer, Nik closed the door and invited her to sit in one of the club seats opposite him. They could still hear Demi’s cries though they sounded fainter. Fran knew the baby’s uncles would take care of her, but the sound of her distress tugged at her.