“I wonder how our girls would get along.” Ross’s eyes brightened.

“Hard to say. No one can force a friendship.”

He shrugged. “But Peyton could use a friend.”

Kelsey’s heart ached. “Kids like Lucy and Peyton have a hard time making friends.”

“Would you like to give it a try?”

His question sank into her mind. Lucy had made strides making friends over the year of her remission, but Peyton hadn’t succeeded. Yet it would mean spending more time with him. She lifted her gaze to his hopeful eyes. “I suppose they might meet … could meet someday.”

His face lit up. “Here’s an idea. Peyton’s birthday is February 14.”

“Valentine’s Day?” His eager expression wrapped around her heart.

He grinned. “Maybe we could plan something fun.”

Her brain and heart faced each other, her brain siding with Lexie’s concern while her heart offered hope. An interesting new friend for her, and maybe a new friend for Peyton. A new path for both of them. But a path with no decisive ending, only speculation. Get involved or not?

Dear Reader,

This series has been a challenge to bring you a story that you can enjoy with a happy ending and yet tell the story of parents dealing with seriously ill children. But this is life for many people who face each day with hope and fear. I decided to challenge both Kelsey and Ross with a romance that added another challenge—two children with debilitating diseases. I researched these serious illnesses and hope I have presented them accurately. If not, I apologize. Life often brings problems to each of us—illnesses, death and losses of all kinds in our distressed economy—but we have one constant assurance. We are never alone. The Lord is by our side with love and mercy, carrying our burdens when we ask and offering us life eternal. No matter how difficult our troubles are on earth, we have God at our side. We are forever blessed.

A Family of Their Own
Gail Gaymer Martin

www.millsandboon.co.uk

Thanks to Senior Editor Melissa Endlich, who inspired the idea for this series. I appreciate her support and the support of all the staff at Love Inspired who have allowed me to write stories that touch hearts and lives of so many people. As always, thanks and love to my husband, Bob, who understands the crazy life of a novelist and loves me anyway.

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

—Ecclesiastes 4:9–10A, 11 & 12

Chapter One

Kelsey Rhodes scanned her friend’s living room, her focus drawn to the lovely Christmas tree, its clear miniature lights radiated the same glow in Lexie’s eyes. On the mantel a row of white candles flickered in the dusky light. Romantic, for sure. Kelsey’s chest expanded, anticipating her friend’s wedding ceremony in the cozy setting.

The parents of the bride and groom buzzed with their own excitement, and her chest constricted, seeing Lexie’s son, Cooper, dressed in a dark suit, sitting near the window. He looked so cute. When he’d been released from the hospital a few weeks ago, allowing him to be home for Christmas and the January wedding, Kelsey had been relieved for Lexie. Her friend’s plight aroused thoughts of her own daughter’s illness, in remission for nearly a year. She prayed that Cooper’s struggle with leukemia would take the same turn as Lucy’s.

The succulent aroma of roast pork drifted into the room. But as delicious the scent was, Kelsey’s stomach knotted. The idea of meeting Ross Salburg, Ethan’s best man, had set her on edge, and nothing seemed to knock it out of her mind. If he recognized her name or who she was, she would be uncomfortable. Maybe she hadn’t tried hard enough to get Ross into the Mothers of Special Kids organization. She’d tried to explain that the group was only for mothers, but he didn’t care. Ethan mentioned that Ross had been disappointed. Facing him for the first time today put a damper on the celebration for her.

The doorbell rang, and Kelsey’s pulse soared. She worked a pleasant expression onto her face, knowing the bell offered three options—the groom, the pastor or Ross.

Swallowing her anxiety, she pinned her gaze to the door as Lexie opened it. Nippy air swished into the room along with a man she’d never seen before. His good looks stole her breath. She had no doubt about the stranger’s identity, and her stomach churned, facing their introduction.

Lexie steered him around the room, introducing him to the two sets of parents first. Ross leaned over to give Cooper a warm greeting, then faced her. She managed a smile.

“Kelsey, this is our best man, Ross.” Lexie grinned. “And this is my matron of honor, Kelsey Rhodes.”

Lexie’s knowing look set Kelsey on edge. He’d already been told who she was.

Ross extended his hand, an unreadable expression on his face, but Kelsey sat unmoving, captured by his brown eyes, like bittersweet chocolate, that seemed to penetrate her soul. Heat rolled up her chest until she lowered her gaze to his hand. “Nice to meet you, Ross.”

“Same here.” He gestured toward the empty seat beside her on the sofa. “Do you mind?”

She forced her mind around her response. “Not at all.” Her voice sounded pleasant. So far so good. But when he sank onto the cushion, the scent of a mountain woods wrapped around her, losing her in the image.

He looked around the room. “Ethan’s late, I assume.” He chuckled.

Ross’s voice jerked her from the mountain stream to the glow of the Christmas lights. Her out-of-control feelings confused her, as did Ross’s avoidance of the topic she dreaded.

“Are you all hungry? Mom prepared a great dinner.” Lexie’s voice penetrated Kelsey’s fog of preoccupation. “We’ll get started once our two key people arrive.”

Ross leaned forward. “Are you sure Ethan hasn’t left you standing at the altar?”

Lexie grinned. “He’ll be here. He loves pork roast.”

Everyone chuckled while Kelsey sank deeper into the cushion. At the moment, she felt uneasy, captured beside the best man. Relief would come once the ceremony began.

Ross’s arm brushed against hers, and her senses sharpened. She gazed around the room, hoping to cast off her giddy feeling. Using every ounce of concentration, she tuned into the mothers’ conversation about life in Florida until she sensed Ross’s eyes on her. Her stomach went into a downward spiral.

She turned to him, like a hound picking up the fox’s scent. Here it comes, she deduced from the look on his face.

“Are you aware that I’m the Ross you all voted not to include in your support group?”

Kelsey considered telling a lie, but that wasn’t her way, nor was it God’s way. “I realized who you were when I heard your name.” She sounded pathetic, and his pure innocent look made her feel even worse. “I’m sorry it turned out that way.”

He didn’t speak, though his eyes searched hers.

Feeling defensive, she wanted to explain. “I know I’m the moderator of the support group, but it went to a vote. It’s always been a women’s organization—you know, Mothers of Special Kids—and I’d hoped you could find another resource out of the ones that I suggested.”

Ross touched her arm. “Please. I wasn’t trying to embarrass you. I knew it was a long shot.” He lowered his eyes. “Ethan gave me the other support groups’ phone numbers, but—”

“We’d never thought of men joining our group.” Heat soared to her cheeks. “When we discussed it …” She captured his gaze. “And we did—all the women thought that men didn’t really like talking about their feelings.”

He flinched.

She wished she’d phrased it differently. “We thought men preferred to get things done, not talk about them.”

“But when a man has a seriously ill child, there’s little he can do.”

The comment twisted in her chest. Lucy’s operations for brain tumors tore into her memory. “I understand. I always felt so lonely before MOSK.”

With a slight nod, he lowered his head. “It’s hard to open up, but I think hearing about others struggling with similar problems would be helpful. I’m sure I would benefit from everyone’s experiences.”

“Ross, I’m really sorry.” She dragged in a breath. “Now that I’ve heard what you have to say, I could try again in a while.”

His gaze drifted to hers. “Thanks.” He wove his fingers together and dropped his clenched hands into his lap. “I did call the other agencies, but either the meeting times didn’t work for me or some of them had disbanded their groups.” He lifted his chin. “I’m Peyton’s only parent, and …”

“I understand.” Apologizing again offered little solace for the group’s rejection. It made sense at the time, but now … She evaded his eyes, and before she could rally, a noise from outside caught everyone’s attention.

Cooper’s excitement split the air. “It’s Ethan.”

The doorknob turned, and Ethan stepped into the foyer, snow drifting from his coat as he waved to everyone waiting. He slipped his arm around Lexie and gave her a fleeting kiss. The gesture triggered a flutter of envy in Kelsey. Years had passed since she’d been hugged by a man, let alone been kissed.

Ethan greeted each person, and when he stopped at the sofa, his eyes captured hers. “I see you’ve met Ross.” A grin flickered on his wind-flushed cheeks.

Guilt snaked through her. “Yes, and we’ve talked.”

He gave Ross a wink and shook his hand.

As he headed back to Lexie, the bell rang again. Ethan answered and welcomed their pastor inside, but when he turned toward the archway where Lexie had been standing, Ethan’s eyes widened. “Where’d she go?”

His mother laughed. “She’s getting ready for her wedding.” She shook her finger at him as if he were still her little boy. “You can’t see the bride in her finery before the ceremony. You know that.”

Ethan’s sheepish nod provided Kelsey with motivation to rise. “I’ll go check on her.” Escaping up the staircase, she reached the top, then slowed and drew in a deep breath. She needed to get her head untangled from Ross’s presence. She’d suspected that her concern had focused on Ross’s reaction to the MOSK group’s veto, but that wasn’t it. That would have been easier than the truth. She found him attractive in many ways. Besides his good looks, his vulnerability touched her and opened doors she thought had been closed.

Dealing with her emotions, she knocked on Lexie’s bedroom door, and when Lexie told her to enter, Kelsey slipped inside and faltered. “Lexie, you look gorgeous.” Kelsey swept to her side and wrapped Lexie in her arms. “Just beautiful.” Though she’d seen her friend’s wedding dress on the hanger, she hadn’t seen it on Lexie. The white A-line satin gown featured a beaded bodice with a rounded neckline and cap sleeves. Lexie’s dark wavy hair hung below her shoulders and contrasted with the sparkling crystal beads. Words failed Kelsey.

Lexie’s mother wiped tears from her eyes. “I never thought I’d see this day. Never.”

The comment jolted Kelsey’s recollection. Lexie and her mother hadn’t been close in many years, but mending seemed to have occurred. Memories of Kelsey’s own lovely wedding came to mind, an amazing day that sadly ended years later when her husband had run off with her best friend. Lexie’s marriage, she believed, was made in heaven.

Could she ever dream of such a day? The question winged in her thoughts for a fleeting second to be replaced with Ross’s dark eyes. No. If she’d been foolish earlier, that speculation was the topper.

Lexie motioned to the table beneath the window. “Let’s not forget the flowers.”

Kelsey opened the box and drew out a bouquet of white orchids mingled with stephanotis and ivy. She handed it to Lexie. Corsages of orchids and ivy remained in the box, one for each mother and one for her. She pinned one on Mrs. Carlson, attached her own, then lifted the four boutonnieres from the florist’s box. “I’ll take these to the men.” She looked at Lexie’s mother. “Will you bring the other corsage?”

Mrs. Carlson nodded, and Kelsey slipped out the door with the stephanotis and sprigs of ivy, allowing mother and daughter a moment alone.

She descended the stairs and returned to the living room, where she attached the fathers’ and Ethan’s boutonnieres. When she faced Ross, her fingers trembled as she ran the long pin through his lapel.

“Thanks.” He gave her a warm smile.

Mrs. Carlson returned with the corsage for Ethan’s mother, and once she’d pinned it on her, she turned to Ethan. “It’s time.”

Ethan’s anxious gaze flew to the staircase as Pastor Tom motioned Ross and Kelsey to join him in front of the fire-place. The candles blurred as tears welled in Kelsey’s eyes. She bit the inside of her lip and turned to face the archway.

Lexie floated down the staircase, and Ethan’s eyes never left her as he moved toward her. They walked forward hand-in-hand, and the ceremony began.

Kelsey tuned in to the message, but the words took her back to her own marriage fourteen years earlier. The hurt and sadness of the bitter deceit, the loss of a friend and a husband swept over her. When she heard an amen, she forced her mind away from her dark thoughts.

Pastor Tom rested his palm on Lexie and Ethan’s entwined hands. “By their promises to God and to all of you present, Alexandria and Ethan have bound themselves to one another as husband and wife.” He looked from Ethan to Lexie and back, then grinned and shook his head. “What’s keeping you? Kiss your bride.”

Ethan drew Lexie into his arms, sealing their bond with a kiss, as chuckles and applause dotted the room, but Kelsey didn’t laugh. Her chest ached with a longing. The love in Ethan’s eyes and the glow in Lexie’s attested to the true meaning of marriage, the kind of marriage God wanted for His children. Her own marriage had missed the mark by miles.

Envy flickered through her when Ross’s palm touched her arm.

He tilted his head toward the dining room. “Want to?” Her heart rose to her throat as she tried to decipher his meaning.

He chuckled. “I’m hungry.”

She caught on. “You want to help get the meal ready?”

“Definitely.”

She moved to his side, and he placed his palm on her back as they strode through the archway. The warmth of his hand rifled down Kelsey’s spine. She pressed her lips together and gathered her wits. “Can you carve a pork roast?”

“Sure can. Let me show you what I can do.”

Kelsey already knew what he could do to her emotions, and she wasn’t ready for that. She hoped he was as deft cutting a roast.

Ross leaned back in his chair, barraged by multiple conversations surging around the dining-room table. But he wasn’t really listening. He’d been able to cover his addled thoughts as he and Kelsey worked in the kitchen for a few short minutes before Mrs. Carlson followed them to take over her job as chef for the celebration dinner.

Meeting Kelsey in person tossed his original concept out the window. He’d pictured her as a nose-in-the-air woman who ruled the Mothers of Special Kids with an iron hand, but he’d been very mistaken. He’d witnessed her uneasy apology attempts and realized that she’d tried to be fair by putting it to a vote.

What did bother him was the women’s attitude about men. Stereotypical attitude, he could add. Yes, some men couldn’t talk about their feelings. Some wanted to take care of things and not deal with emotions. But he’d learned that emotions were real whether he wanted to feel them or not, and when it came to his daughter, the pain of her struggle wrenched his heart. Why would mothers assume that fathers didn’t hurt and didn’t wrestle with decisions?

But today wasn’t the day to deal with that issue. Maybe no day was right. He had questions for Kelsey, but they were more personal. How was her daughter’s health now? Ethan had told him once that her daughter had a brain tumor, but what kind of tumor? Where was Kelsey’s husband? Gone, yes. She’d mentioned being alone, but had he died or walked out on her? Had the tension of their daughter’s illness caused the rift?

He sounded like a detective, and it unsettled him. Instead of brooding, Ross forced his mind to focus on the ensuing conversation about the upcoming Super Bowl. As he listened and tossed in a comment here and there, Kelsey’s presence invaded his space. Her sweet fragrance filtered past before being covered by the yeasty dinner rolls and succulent pork roast.

“Excuse me, please.”

Kelsey’s voice swept past him, and he gazed at her.

“I need to check on Lucy.” She pushed back her chair.

Concerned, Ross shifted and rose. “Is she okay?” He drew her chair aside so she could rise.

Kelsey stood, her body close to his. “She’s fine. My sitter isn’t the usual one I hire, so I’m always cautious.” She slipped past him, and he watched her slide a door aside behind them and enter a room.

He stood a moment, wondering if he should stand until she returned or settle back in his chair again. The time stretched, and his concern rose. Not comfortable nosing into her business, yet not at ease ignoring her absence, he strode toward the door, but as he approached, it slid open and Kelsey stepped out. A questioning look spread across her face.

His mind slowed down, and he could only mumble. “I wanted to make sure you were okay.”

A grin replaced her uncertainty. “You’re as bad as I am.”

He shrugged. “Not bad really. Alert.”

“So you’re a worrier, too.” She tilted her head toward the kitchen. “Should we help clear the dishes?”

“That’s a plan.” He followed her around the table, removing the soiled china and silverware. Though Mrs. Carlson offered to help, Kelsey suggested that she enjoy the company while they took care of the dishes.

Ross rinsed while Kelsey loaded the dishwasher, and as they worked, he caught her eyeing him on occasion as if she were weighing her feelings about him. When he was about to be blunt and ask, she closed the dishwasher door and rested her hip against the countertop. “Are you always this nice?”

The question caught him off guard. “You mean am I always helpful?”

“Nice. Helpful. I suppose they go hand in hand.”

He grinned, still wondering what had brought on that question. “I try to be. How about you?”

Her eyes widened as if surprised at his directness. “I try to calm storms, but sometimes I create new waves. I think being a peacemaker is a good attribute, but I don’t know other people’s take on me.”

He’d expected a playful response. Instead he’d gotten a truthful answer. Earlier when they talked, he’d witnessed her penchant for making peace when she’d offered to bring his name up before the MOSK organization again. “I suppose we never know what people think.” He turned off the tap water and rested against the countertop beside her. “I’d like to hear about Lucy.” Seeing her expression, he’d surprised her again.

“We’ve been very blessed. Lucy’s been in remission now for nearly a year, and I’m hopeful the last surgery was the end.”

“Last surgery?”

“Yes, over the past few years, she had multiple surgeries for brain tumors and—”

“Multiple tumors? I didn’t know.” His chest tightened.

“Are they—”

“Benign.”

The constriction in his chest eased, and he inhaled. “That’s a relief.”

She nodded, but no joy brightened her face. “The problem is the damage each surgery can cause. I fear that a tumor will infiltrate a major part of the brain that will make …” She closed her eyes.

Ross drew closer and rested his hand on her arm. “You’ve gone through a lot, Kelsey. Any type of tumor is awful.”

When she opened her eyes, his tenderness greeted her.

“Thanks. We’re so blessed to have things go this way. I wish it could happen to every sick child.” So did he.

He hadn’t meant for the conversation to take a dark turn. “You know Ethan’s involved with the Dreams Come True Foundation,” he noted.

Her eyes met his. “Yes.” She chuckled. “That’s where Lexie met Ethan. He did a presentation at our MOSK meeting.”

“I suppose I’d heard that.” Naturally she knew. He shrugged. “Since Lucy is doing so well, have you ever thought of letting her have a dream come true?”

Her smile faded and she flicked a shoulder. “I suppose I’m silly, but it seems like tempting fate.”

“Tempting fate?”

“Like taking her health for granted. I’ve always felt having her well is dream enough.”

He didn’t know how to respond. She seemed too positive to step into such a dark thought. Silence smothered conversation.

“Ross.”

His heart kicked.

“Tell me about Peyton.” Interest brightened the mood.

Peyton. Even her name grabbed at his emotions. She’d been through so much. Kelsey would understand, but he wrestled with the ability to speak.

This time Kelsey touched his arm. “Another time, Ross. I didn’t mean to hit you with that question today.”

The reprieve relieved him. Talking about Peyton homed in on so many things that hurt. A wedding celebration didn’t seem like an appropriate place to open up those wounds. But she’d suggested another time, and the idea gave him hope.

“I’d like that.”

A frown settled on her face. “You’d like what?”

“To talk another time.” Making a date with a woman arose like a vague memory. “Maybe dinner sometime?”

An unreadable expression flashed across her face.

“With the girls, if you like.” He caught his error. “But then it would be too difficult to talk.”

Her features softened and a smile lit her eyes. “Dinner would be nice.”

As he was about to set a date, Lexie’s mother darted into the kitchen. He closed his mouth. Before the evening ended, Ross needed to ask for her telephone number, and he hoped by then that she hadn’t rethought his invitation and decided it wasn’t a good idea.

Kelsey stood in Lexie’s kitchen rinsing off the last dishes, her mind on Ross. Lexie had taken her mother upstairs to tell her what she needed to know about Cooper’s medicine. Mr. and Mrs. Carlson had offered to stay with Cooper for a week while Lexie and Ethan enjoyed a honeymoon cruise. Knowing Lexie’s past with her mother, Kelsey marveled at the reestablished relationship. God had shined on them during their time together.

The countertops were cleared and the food stashed away. Kelsey poured another cup of coffee, hoping it was decaf, and she sank onto the breakfast nook bench, not wanting to leave before saying goodbye to Lexie. Ross had suggested dinner, and she’d readily agreed. When he’d asked for her telephone number, she had given him her cell phone number, but then had second thoughts. She’d only met the man today and, the more she thought about it, accepting a dinner date seemed a little premature. Maybe a coffee date would have been better.

Still, Ross intrigued her. She’d never known a man so open about his emotions. His love for his daughter shone on his face, and yet she saw something else, an expression that aroused her attention. Ross had a story to tell, and she wanted to hear it. His behavior infiltrated her mind. So often she resisted talking about her problems, but with him it had been easy to be open.

“Kelsey.”

She jumped upon hearing her name and hurried to the head of the stairs. “I’m here.” “Come up.”

As she ascended the staircase, Mrs. Carlson came down. A pleasant look filled her face, and it triggered an unexpected joy in Kelsey’s heart. Forgiveness. Understanding. Whatever had happened between Lexie and her mother resulted in happiness for Lexie. At the top of the stairs, she faltered. “Where are you?”

“In here.”

The voice came from her bedroom, and Kelsey strode to the doorway and stopped. “Need help?”

Lexie turned to face her. “No. You’ve given me all the help I need.” She opened her arms and Kelsey walked into her embrace. “Thanks so much for being my matron of honor and for all your support. You’ve become a great friend.”

“You, too.” The words caught in her throat, thinking of all the dark times they’d shared with their children’s illnesses. “I can’t tell you how happy I am for you.”

“Ethan’s one in a million.” Lexie motioned for her to sit.

“He is.” She shifted to the only chair in the room and sank into the cushion. “But I’m not just referring to Ethan. I’m also talking about your mother.”

“It’s been amazing, hasn’t it?” Tears glinted in her eyes. “I never expected Mom to come around as she’s done, and it shows how good forgiveness can be.”

The comment pierced Kelsey. She could only nod. Forgiveness was something she’d never granted to her ex-husband and to her friend who’d betrayed her.

After shifting her suitcase to the side, Lexie sat on the edge of the bed and gazed at her. The look sent an uneasy feeling through Kelsey. She waited, trying to understand what had happened to their conversation. No doubt Lexie had something to say, and Kelsey couldn’t guess what it might be. The waiting made her raw. “What’s wrong?”

Lexie shook her head and lowered her eyes. “This is really none of my business.”

Kelsey froze. Business? “Did I do something wrong? If I did—”

“No. No. It’s only …” She drew in a lengthy breath. “I’m surprised that you and Ross hit it off so well.”

“Why?” She studied Lexie’s face. “He handled the MOSK rejection pretty well.”

She shrugged. “He seemed to.”

“Then what?”

“When you and Ross were flirting, I thought it was cute … at first, but—”

“Flirting?” She bristled that her response to Ross had been so obvious.

Lexie shook her head again. “Why don’t I shut up? It’s your life.”

“My life?” Her mind raced. Maybe Ross was married, and she didn’t realize it or maybe … Her confusion split the air. “Explain what you’re talking about. You can’t stop now.”

“I’m being silly.” Lexie closed her eyes and tilted her head back, filling her lungs. “I sound like a soap opera.” She lowered her chin. “It’s only that you and Ross both have kids who need so much. Yes, Lucy is doing well now, and we both hope that it’s forever, but from what I know Peyton has a long road ahead of her, and I wonder if you and Ross are wise to get involved. It seemed so obvious to me that—”

“Get involved? Lexie, we only met today. Yes, we were bonded by his name coming up at the MOSK meeting and he happened to be your best man. He’s very nice, and we have something in common, but we aren’t planning …” We’re having dinner. That fact raced through her mind, along with how interesting she found him. “We aren’t planning a life together.”

Lexie rose and approached her as she opened her arms. “But I’ve never seen you so animated with anyone. You’re a down-to-business person, and you’re a peacemaker. I’ve seen many sides of you, but I’d never seen you so alive. Maybe you didn’t sense what I did, but you and Ross … I don’t know. Maybe I’m delusional.”

Kelsey sat in the chair, staring at her open arms, an obvious invitation for a hug, but at the moment, she didn’t want to be hugged. Her chest ached and her head spun. What in the world had happened to stir Lexie’s imagination? It made no sense. Yes, she acknowledged her interest in Ross. Despite second-guessing herself, she’d enjoyed the conversation once she got over the uncomfortable introduction. Why would anyone, especially Lexie, see anything wrong with her friendship with Ross?

Lexie’s arms remained open, expectation on her face.

Forcing herself from the chair, Lexie stepped into her arms. “I will never do anything to hurt Lucy. Don’t ever worry about that. My happiness today was for you, dear friend.” She drew back and took her hands. “Now, go on your honeymoon and have a wonderful time. I’m a big girl, and I’ll use wisdom before jumping into anything.”

A faint smile crept onto Lexie’s face. “I shouldn’t have said anything. I’m being silly.”

Kelsey agreed, but she let it drop. She always used good judgment when it came to Lucy and sound thinking for her own life.

But today she felt different, almost as if her life had been on hold until now.

Chapter Two

Ross sat in the hospital waiting room while Peyton had a heart echo and an MRI. The clock hands inched around the face while his mind moved at the same pace. He stared at his cell phone, Kelsey’s phone number in his hand. He’d been adventurous enough to ask her to dinner, but today his enthusiasm faded. Her blunt responses and quick honesty challenged him to respond as she did—in an open and direct manner. He couldn’t.

On the other hand, he enjoyed her company and personal enjoyment was something he’d hooked to an anchor and dropped into Lake St. Clair. Boats disappeared in that lake, and their occupants were never located. He thought his anchor would never be found, but it rose to the surface five days ago when he laid eyes on Kelsey.

He glanced at the clock again. Peyton’s tests never took this long. The heel of his shoe tapped against the shining marble floor of the heart unit. He pressed his dry lips together and refocused on the cell phone. He needed a distraction. And good news. Checking the numbers she’d scribbled on the notepaper, he punched them in and waited.

Three rings. Four. Leave a message or not? His question vanished when he heard the connection. “Kelsey, this is Ross.” “Ross.”

He waited, the sound of her surprise ringing in his ears. “I called to set a date for dinner.” Maybe he should have suggested coffee. “Whatever time is best for you.”

Silence. Ross could almost feel the electrical current zinging in her brain.

“I—I’m not sure this is a good time to make plans.”

The muscles in his jaw tightened. “Is Lucy ill?”

“No. But things are hectic here.”

Hectic? He could read her thoughts as he listened to silence.

Kelsey cleared her throat. “Lucy’s decided to get more involved at school, and between my job, running her places and keeping an eye on her health, I—”

“You’re tired.” He knew the routine, and he didn’t want to hear her excuses. She’d done what he suspected and had second thoughts. “I’ve been sitting at the hospital for nearly two hours waiting while Peyton has some tests.”

“I hate waiting. Time drags horribly.” The tension in her tone had eased.

Ross shifted in the chair. “Magazines aren’t great company.”

“So true.”

Silence.

“Ross, I’m sorry we didn’t finish our conversation about Peyton. I don’t even know what kind of illness she has.”

The word stuck in his throat. He sucked in air. “Cardiomyopathy.”

A gasp echoed into the receiver. “I’m so very sorry. How bad is she?”

“I try to be hopeful.” He’d been optimistic during his wife’s illness, too. Ruthie had been so sure she would live to be a mother to her daughter. “These tests will let me know how she’s progressing.” “More waiting.”

The line hummed with silence, and he lifted his shoulders, knowing he needed to say goodbye.

“Let me know what the doctors say, okay?” Her voice breezed from the line, a different spirit than he’d heard earlier.

“Sure.” He’d have Ethan tell her. “I need to—” “Ross.”

His flesh prickled. “Yes.”

“About dinner. I can get a sitter for Friday, I think, if that works for you.”

He stopped breathing. “Friday?” Confusion skittered along his frame, but he gathered his wits. “Works for me. How about if I pick you up at six?”

“Six is good.” She gave him her address.

His gaze drifted to the clock. “I’ll see you then.”

She said goodbye, and he tucked his cell phone into his pocket as he rose. The wait addled him, but not as much as it did Kelsey. He lifted his shoulders and eyed the volunteer at the desk. Maybe she’d have some information on Peyton’s status. As he strode toward her, a nurse called his name from the doorway. When he turned, she beckoned him to follow.

Though relief washed over him, he also succumbed to dread. He followed the young woman, knowing he could hear good news or bad from the doctor, or maybe today nothing at all. Life seemed like one long delay.

The nurse paused outside a consultation room. “You can wait in here with Peyton. The doctor will see you soon.”

He thanked her and stepped inside.

Peyton sat in a chair, looking so young despite her constant reminders. “I’m almost twelve, Dad. I’m not a baby anymore.”

To him, she’d always be his baby. But he knew better than to say that to her. “How did it go?”

“Same thing every time. Don’t move. Hold my breath.” She shrugged. “You know the drill.”

He nodded and sat in the only other chair in the room. “But you’ve been doing well, right?”

She shrugged again. “I guess.”

Attitude grew with age. He realized that. His daughter was on the cusp of her teens and nearly a woman in so many ways.

“Mr. Salburg.”

He looked up as Dr. Timmons stepped through the doorway. The doctor closed the door and leaned against it. “We’ll need to read the results more thoroughly, but for now, things look pretty much status quo.”

Ross’s pulse skipped. Status quo was better than a decline in her health, but he so longed to hear the word improvement. “That means no real changes.”

“My main concern is Peyton’s recurring arrhythmia. She is taking her blood thinner as directed, right?”

Ross nodded.

“Once we read the tests, we’ll know if we have to up her blood thinner. I hate to do it because that will restrict her physical activities a little more.”

Peyton groaned. “I don’t want restrictions.”

His gaze shifted to her. “I know you don’t like that, but it’s for your safety. Blood thinners prevent blood clots, and that can happen when the heart gets out of rhythm. We’ve talked about this before.”

They had, and while Peyton would say nothing more in front of the physician, Ross would hear her complaints on the way home. Physical restriction upset her, because she felt different than the other kids. Peyton wanted to be normal, like everyone else. She wasn’t.

Dr. Timmons pulled his back from the door. “But the good news is, from what I see, your heart looks about the same. No new dilation, and that’s great.”

“So what’s next?” Ross rose from the chair, his focus on Peyton.

“When I receive the full report, I’ll give you a call. For now, follow the same medication protocol.” He stepped aside and pulled open the door. “I’ll see you again, Peyton.”

She gave a nod, and when Dr. Timmons’s back was turned, she rolled her eyes.

“I know, honey, but the medication is keeping you safe.”

“Right.” Another eye roll.

Frustration coiled through Ross. He longed to have the right words to offer her hope, but she had to grasp that herself. When it came from him, he received eye rolls and nasty looks. He’d do anything to take away her illness. His thoughts diverged from the stress. It’s the only way he could deal with it all. The phone call came to mind and then Kelsey’s plight. How did she handle the situation with her daughter?

Kelsey gazed at the barnlike structure of Peabody’s Restaurant, one of her favorites. Ross had suggested a few places for dinner, and she appreciated his thoughtfulness. Besides delicious food, the restaurant had reasonable prices.

Ross walked beside her and pulled open one of the double doors at the entrance. They climbed the few stairs and turned into the dining area. Once seated in a cozy nook on the second floor, Kelsey focused on the man who’d tried to be so kind—the first man who’d tugged at her heart since her husband. Her stomach knotted as she tried to cope with the new emotion.

“Kelsey, I hope your accepting this invitation isn’t because you feel sorry for me. That’s something I don’t want from any—”

“Ross, no. Not at all.” As she pled innocence, her mind shot back to the call and what had triggered her acceptance.

His loneliness. The waiting. Was that pity? She struggled for an explanation. “Yes, it had to do with the long wait and wondering, but it’s not pity. It’s different. It’s mutual understanding. I need someone to talk with about those things, and I have the mother’s group. MOSK has been a relief for me. It’s a place where I don’t burden others with my woes because they understand.” She looked into his questioning eyes. “I relate to your situation. I’ve been there.”

He looked down at the table and then up again. “I guess that’s why I was disappointed when your group said no. The time and place are so convenient for me. It fits my schedule, but maybe you’re right. Maybe a man sitting with all those women would put a damper on their openness. I don’t want to do that.”

Her chest ached for him while her mind flipped to a new awareness. “I don’t think we thought of you as an individual, Ross.”

Confusion filled his face.

“We thought of you as a gender. Man or woman—some of us need support, and we weren’t thinking along those lines. I’ll pursue this topic with them. You need people dealing with the same problem you’re struggling with. A child with a serious illness. Our vote seems selfish, now that I think about it.”

“Not selfish. I think you were being protective.” He’d hit it on the head.

Ross reached across the table and touched her hand. “I only want you to do what’s best for the group. I’ll survive. I always have.”

And so had she. Alone. Miserable at times. Afraid. Hopeful. That had become her life. She nodded. “So tell me about Peyton. You said she has cardiomyopathy.”

“Dilated cardiomyopathy.”

“I didn’t know there were different types.”

He shook his head. “It’s the most common. The heart enlarges and stretches because it’s weak and can’t pump normally to move blood through the chambers. The problem can lead to arrhythmia and issues with the heart’s electrical system.”

And death. The thought chilled her. Kelsey studied his face as he talked about Peyton’s treatments and medication. How did he cope with it all and with such patience? She’d gone through many things with Lucy’s brain tumors but, praise God, they were benign and since the last surgery, they’d seemed to lick it. “It’s too much for a child. How old is she?”

“Peyton will celebrate her twelfth birthday next month.”

“Lucy’s almost eleven. That’s sure something we have in common.”

She grinned. “You mean the ‘attitude.'”

“You got it.”

They both grew silent. Ross’s hand rested near hers, and she longed to reach out and hold it against her heart. The man had gone through too much without a partner, and though she wanted to know about that, too, she held back. One step at a time.

Yet Lexie’s concern still rang in her ears. I wonder if you and Ross are wise to get involved. A friendship wasn’t really getting involved. Yes, she found Ross attractive, and attraction could grow. But she didn’t have time for involvement. For romance. The whole idea threw her off balance. She needed to stick to her friends.

“Are you ready to order?”

Kelsey’s head jerked up and gazed at the waitress. “Sorry. I haven’t even looked at the menu.”

“Could we have a few more minutes?” Ross winked at the young woman.

“Certainly. Take your time, unless you’d like to order drinks now.”

They placed their drink orders, and when the waitress left, they pored over the menu. But Kelsey’s concentration drifted to their girls. Both struggled to fit into a normal world, and that wasn’t always possible. If the girls met, it might be good for them. Lucy connected with Cooper because he had a serious illness. Scenarios rolled through her mind, envisioning Lucy and Peyton together. Obviously, a friendship with Ross without the girls’ involvement would be impossible. Their daughters took priority in their lives. Maybe the friendship could be a good thing.

“Penny for your thoughts.”

Ross’s voice startled her.

“Or should I offer five bucks. You look mighty serious.”

“Sorry, I was thinking of our girls.” Honesty without details. She hated her urge to hide her thoughts. Conjecture didn’t make sense at this point. “Have you heard anything about her recent tests?”

He drew in a lengthy breath. “Probably next week.”

“Please let me know how it goes.” She almost wished she hadn’t asked, but she cared. Not even knowing the child, she cared.

“I will. And thanks for being concerned.”

“Hopeful is more like it.”

He rested his hand on hers. “I like your attitude.”

The word attitude gave them a chuckle. Lucy had developed one recently that Kelsey wanted to nip in the bud, as her mother used to say.

Ross looked thoughtful. “I wonder how our girls would get along.” His eyes brightened.

“Hard to say. No one can force a friendship.”

He shrugged. “But Peyton could use a friend.”

Her heart ached. “Kids like Lucy and Peyton have a hard time making friends.”

“Would you like to give it a try?”

His question sank into her mind. Lucy had made strides making friends over the year of her remission, but Peyton hadn’t succeeded. Yet it would mean spending more time with Ross. She lifted her gaze to his hopeful eyes. “I suppose they might meet … could meet someday.”

His face lit up. “Here’s an idea. Peyton’s birthday is February 14.”

“Valentine’s Day?” His eager expression wrapped around her heart.

He grinned. “Maybe we could plan something fun.”

“Are you sure Peyton would like that?”

His grin faded. “I would hope so.”

“Well, I’d have to check with Lucy.” Her brain and heart faced each other, her brain siding with Lexie’s concern while her heart offered hope. An interesting new friend for her, and maybe a new friend for Peyton. A new path for both of them. But a path with no decisive ending, only speculation. Get involved or not?

A Robert Frost poem slipped into her mind, one of her favorites, “The Road Not Taken.” Two paths. One decision. And, as the poem said, which path she chose would make all the difference.

Ross sat in his recliner, watching the six o’clock news, while his mind skipped above the latest world disasters to his dinner with Kelsey. She ran hot and cold. It confused him. Their conversations were good—meaty sometimes—and other times, they were both chuckling at commonalities between the girls or situations in their lives. But the next minute, she drifted off to another planet. One that seemed so distant and dark.

He’d sensed that she liked him. At least enjoyed his company, but her hesitation drove him crazy. Point blank, he needed to ask her what was up. Yet as soon as the thought hit his mind, the possibility of her honest answer discouraged him. Maybe it wasn’t what he wanted to hear.

He clenched his teeth. Why look for problems? She’d more or less agreed to celebrate Peyton’s birthday and bring Lucy along. He could only pray that the girls liked each other.

Peyton’s negativity had gotten under his skin. Still, the poor kid had gone through so much that he avoided nagging her about it. She’d been brave for the past years dealing with that horrible illness. God had spared her thus far. Much longer than her mom had survived once diagnosed with the disease. That gave him prayerful hope.

“Peyton.” He leaned forward and looked toward the doorway.

No response.

“Peyton?” But this time he flipped the footrest down and rose. No sense in calling like a truck driver. He wandered across the room and through the archway to her bedroom door. “Peyton, are you in there?” He heard a thump followed by her footsteps.

She pulled open the door. “What?”

Ross pursed his lips, holding back a comment that circled in his mind. “Can we talk a few minutes?” He looked past her into the wonderful sitting area that had once been his. He’d made a true sacrifice giving her the master-bedroom suite, but other than the small guestroom where he slept, the other bedrooms were upstairs. His shoulders dropped as he drew his attention back to Peyton. “Your birthday is coming up, and I thought we should talk about it.”

“Dad, I don’t want a party. I’m—”

“No party. I understand.” She’d missed so much school over the last years that friendships weren’t easy for her. The kids treated her like someone too delicate to befriend. It hurt him to see her in that situation.

“Then what?” She raised her round hazel eyes, so like her mother’s.

“Can I come into your room?” He motioned toward the two chairs in the sitting area, matching recliners Ruthie had picked out for them.

She stepped into the hallway and closed the door.

He stood back and followed her into the family room. She sank onto the couch as he settled back into his recliner. If he could figure out Peyton’s moods, it would certainly help. “What would you like to do?”

“I’d like to read my book.” She motioned toward her bedroom.

He bit back his frustration. “I mean for your birthday.” He’d given it thought but telling her what he had in mind would put an end to that.

“Could we just go out to dinner?”

Dinner. He could do that. “Mexican? I know you like Azteca.”

Her nose curled. “Japanese.”

He grinned. “Benihana’s?” She loved the chefs entertaining the guests with their cooking prowess. But Kelsey and Lucy? He hoped they like Japanese food. “Benihana’s is fine.” The muscles in his stomach contracted. “I have another idea, too. It’ll make it more like a party.”

A scowl settled on her face as she tilted her head. “I told you I don’t want a party.”

“Not a real party, but a celebration.”

Her eyes probed his.

“I know a lady who has a daughter your age. She’s been sick, too, and I thought maybe we could invite them. Her mother thought it would be nice.”

Her scowl deepened. “Can’t it just be us?”

The conversation with Kelsey marched through his mind. “I sort of invited them already. I thought you’d be happy.” That wasn’t exactly the truth. “I hoped you’d be happy.”

“Dad.” She bolted up from the sofa. “Do whatever.” She marched through the archway.

So much for beginning the birthday celebration on a high note. Now what? Should he call Kelsey and cancel? Kelsey’s face filled his mind, her sapphire-blue eyes, her blond hair combed back with its stubborn part. He pictured her running her long fingers through the strands as if the action would ban the part from appearing. It never did.

He loved her smile—though rarer than her serious look—her full lips curved at the ends and smile lines like parentheses, as if the smile were an afterthought. If he called and canceled, that could end everything.

Chapter Three

“Touchdown!”

Kelsey jumped at Bill Rueben’s outburst. Noise reached its pitch as the touchdown tied the score. Kelsey didn’t care if anyone won, but she wouldn’t admit that to a soul. Two things had motivated her to come to Lexie and Ethan’s Super Bowl party. First, Lexie had invited her to see her honeymoon photos. Seven days on a Caribbean cruise sounded wonderful, especially living in Michigan with only graying snow piled along the curbs outside the window. But most of all, she knew that Ross had been invited.

“Grab food when you want it.” Lexie stood in the archway to the living room. “Chips and dip, salsa and sub sandwiches.” She stepped back and then peeked around the corner. “And cookies. Homemade.”

Kelsey wriggled free from her seat on the sofa and rose. She ambled to the doorway and stood a moment, taking a furtive peek at Ross in a chair near the window. He’d said hello and asked about Lucy. She’d asked about Peyton, but with so many people watching them, she hadn’t prolonged the conversation. In the light through the window, his dark hair shone with glints of mahogany. He wore it thick, with a slight widow’s peak that most women would envy. He had a great smile, but he wasn’t Adonis. His sensitivity captured her more. And she liked his appealing ways.

Today he’d worn jeans and a teal-colored sweater. His shoulders looked as wide as an ocean—maybe a Great Lake. She snickered to herself. Whenever Ross came to mind, a giddy feeling rustled through her. When she was near him, her pulse raced.

She studied him for a moment, and before turning away, he glanced up and saw her gazing at him. She flinched when he grinned. She managed a pleasant expression before she strutted into the dining room, forcing her attention on the food spread across the table. But a noise in the kitchen drew her toward Lexie, who stood behind the island, preparing coffee. Kelsey sank a chip into the dip, popped it in her mouth and headed her way. “Where are your honeymoon photos?”

“On the computer in the den.” She motioned toward the sliding door off the dining room. “There’s an icon on the desktop. Click on it, and it will take you right to the photos. I put captions under the pictures so in a couple years I’ll remember where I was.” Though she behaved lighthearted, her expression said she had something on her mind.

Kelsey strode deeper into the kitchen, drawn by curiosity as much as the scent of the brewing coffee. “Cooper’s with Ethan’s mom?”

She nodded. “You want to grab some food?” She motioned to the breakfast nook and headed that way, a cookie in her hand.

Food didn’t arouse Kelsey’s interest at that moment, nor did the coffee. She followed Lexie and slipped onto the bench across from her. They sat, eyeing each other as if words had taken a vacation. Kelsey’s mind skipped around possibilities of what Lexie wanted. It couldn’t be marital problems, but what about Cooper’s health? “You have something on your mind.”

She looked down. “You know, I was really weird with you a few weeks ago. About Ross and you. I don’t know what got into me.”

“Forget it. On your wedding day, you’re allowed to do and say whatever you like. All is forgiven.”

“But it’s not like me to butt into someone’s life. I told Ethan what I’d done, and he wasn’t happy. He told me Ross is a great guy, and he deserved a little pleasure in life, just as you do.”

A knot formed in Kelsey’s throat. She cleared it. “Hey, it’s no big deal.”

Lexie grasped her hand. “Everyone needs friends, and for some reason, my mind jumped to romance. I suppose I could blame that on my wedding day.” She gave a feeble chuckle.

“Wedding days can arouse all kinds of emotions. Think of the brides who run away and the grooms who don’t show up.” She squeezed Lexie’s hand. “Really. Forget it.”

Lexie lowered her head, then lifted it again with a grin. “Have you two seen each other?”

Kelsey gave a toss of her head. “He’s in the living room.” She liked the sneaky way she avoided the question.

“You know what I mean. A date? A … coffee or lunch? Maybe a movie and dinner?” Lexie searched her face and arched an eyebrow. “Nothing?”

This question she couldn’t sidestep. “We went to dinner. At Peabody’s. We talked about the kids and he took me home.”

“And that’s it?” She drew back, a look of disbelief on her face. “I haven’t brought him up to you on the phone because I wanted to apologize in person, and you didn’t say anything to me.” She shook her head again. “I thought there would be more. You both seemed so taken with each other that day.”

Air bottled in Kelsey’s lungs. She released it. “He mentioned getting the girls together for Peyton’s birthday. It’s coming up.”

“So this is where you’re hiding.”

Kelsey jumped as Ross’s voice sailed past. He stood at the island, a sub sandwich resting on a paper plate in his hand. She searched his face, wondering if he’d heard their conversation.

“Girl talk.” Lexie gave her a pat and rose. “Help yourself to some coffee. I just made it.”

His gaze slipped to Kelsey. “Did I interrupt something?”

Ignoring his question, Kelsey scooted from the bench. “I came in to ask Lexie about looking at the honeymoon photos.” She strutted to the island and leaned forward, trying to see through the dining-room archway. “The game’s not over, is it?”

He grinned. “It’s just about halftime.” He set his plate on the island counter and wandered over to the coffeepot.

“Cups?”

Lexie pulled a few mugs from an overhead cabinet. “Milk?

Sugar?”

“Black?” He turned to Kelsey. “Coffee?”

She nodded and ambled his way. “Thanks.”

“Can guys see the photos, too?” He looked over his shoulder and gave a wink.

Lexie chuckled. “They’re in the den. Kelsey knows where they are.”

Kelsey’s pulse tripped.

“Do you mind?” He faced her and offered her the coffee mug he’d filled for her.

“Not at all.” She took the mug, the aroma drifting around her, though she could still catch the scent of Ross’s aftershave.

She led the way but stopped when he paused to pile a few chips on his plate before following her. When he came into the room, he slid the door closed behind him. He grinned and slipped past her.

She swiveled in the desk chair and watched him set his mug and plate on the lamp table before he sank into the love seat. “Are you ready for the photos?”

He put the end of the sub into his mouth and took a bite. “I can eat and do anything.” He grinned again and dug a paper napkin from his pocket to wipe his mouth. “My mother taught me not to talk with my mouth full.”

She couldn’t hold back a chuckle. “I think your mother failed.” She motioned to the monitor. “Can you see?”

He set the sandwich back onto the plate. “If you turn the monitor a little, I can see fine.”

She tilted the screen and rolled her chair back as she hit the button for the slide show. The photographs began—luscious blue skies, golden sand, palm trees and sugarcane plants. So many lovely photos slid past while she longed to be somewhere beneath that glinting sunshine, but not alone. Her mind replaced the faces in the photos. All the pictures of Lexie and Ethan grinning at the camera at dinner, walking the beach, sitting in an aerial tram surrounded by jungle became Ross and her. Kelsey released a shuddered breath and jerked her wayward thoughts back. “What I wouldn’t give for a trip like that.”

Ross rose and moved beside her, closer to the monitor. “It does make me envious.” He motioned to the lovely landscape photo. “Look at that sunlight. Now look out the window.” He crouched beside her, resting his hand on the chair arm and leaning closer to the photos.

Though she knew the view out the window, her gaze was drawn to the snow-covered shrubs and tree limbs in Lexie’s backyard. When she looked back, their eyes met. Blood pounded through her veins, a ridiculous reaction to looking at photos. She struggled to pull her gaze away and sought a new topic. “Are Lexie and Ethan going to stay in this house? I thought Ethan had a nice place, too.”

“He does, but I heard they’re thinking of Cooper. He loves it here, and for now, I think they’re staying with what’s familiar for him.”

“That’s really considerate.” And no surprise. That’s the kind of man Ethan was.

Ross looked thoughtful. “I’d do that, too, I think.”

Her stomach tightened. They both would, so where did that leave them? “We give a lot when our kids are sick.” She clicked off the photographs and leaned back in the chair.

He gazed at her. “And it’s not always easy, is it?” He pushed himself up, hands against his thighs and stretched. “Before we join the others, I wanted to check with you about Peyton’s birthday.” He resettled on the love seat. “Did you talk with Lucy?”

Something about his expression didn’t sit well with her. “She’s fine with it.” She guessed.

Ross’s problem. “What about Peyton? What does she want? It’s her birthday.”

He lowered his head and leaned forward, elbows on his knees, hands folded. “I did have to deal with a little attitude.”

The change of plans she’d anticipated. A blend of relief and disappointment swirled through her.

He raised his head, a slight grin on his lips. “But she ended the conversation by leaving it up to me.”

A similar situation with Lucy plodded into her mind. She rose. “I think we should drop it. It’s Peyton’s birthday, and it should be her decision.”

A frown conquered his faint grin. “No, please. Let me explain.” He patted the seat beside him.

Kelsey eyed the empty cushion, weighing her emotions. She felt safer in the chair, but he looked forlorn. The moment called for listening. She rolled the chair back to the desk, and sat beside him.

“Here’s the thing.” Ross caught her gaze. “Peyton often feels rejected by other kids. She’s missed a lot of school, and she doesn’t feel like part of her class most of the time. The kids aren’t mean or anything, but you know kids. The boys are boys at that age, and the girls have their little cliques. Peyton doesn’t seem to fit into any of them.”

Her heart squeezed, remembering. “Lucy missed school, too, but she’s doing okay. It takes time, Ross. Encourage Peyton to be patient.”

“I tell her that, but she’s not willing to wait. She wants things when she wants them, and when they don’t happen, she rejects them. I’m afraid that’s what she’s done with the kids at school. I asked her teacher, and she said Peyton is rather standoffish.”

Kelsey pressed her lips together to hold back her comment. Her life revolved around helping people solve problems, and sometimes keeping her mouth closed was the best choice.

“I think that having a friend would help her, and since Lucy doesn’t go to Peyton’s school, it might work. Maybe they’ll click. Maybe—”

“And maybe not, Ross. Don’t count on anything when it comes to preteen girls. They’re at that almost-grown-up stage. Their hormones are raging, and you never know what you’ll get.” So much for keeping her mouth shut.

Ross studied her in silence. “You’re right.”

She relaxed her shoulders. “It’s hard not having a wife who’s gone through all the puberty stuff making it easier to talk with Peyton. Now it’s something you’ll have to do, I’m afraid.”

“I know. I dread it.”

She reached over and rested her hand on his. “Let’s do this. Make plans with her, and then let me know how she’s accepting the idea. Any thought about how you’ll celebrate?”

“She wants to have dinner at Benihana.” He angled his head. “Been there?”

“No, but I’ve heard of it. Lucy would enjoy it. All the knife tricks and watching the chefs cook. Plus she loves shrimp.”

“Then that settles it.”

His silly expression lightened their previous conversation, but what he said hadn’t. Too many things were left unsettled. The more Kelsey thought about Lexie’s concern, the more real it became. She didn’t need reality. Kelsey longed for a bit of fantasy in her life.

Ross’s attention slid from the chef’s flashing knife to Lucy’s gleeful applause. Peyton had quieted as she sized up their guests. He had no idea what she had on her mind. The girls were opposites. Peyton’s dark hair, the color of his and usually tied back in a ponytail, today hung in curls around her shoulders. Lucy’s shorter blond waves bounced with her animation. She spoke well and directly, not afraid to show her enthusiasm while Peyton’s personality had slipped into a bottle with a tight cork. The situation disappointed him.

Peyton’s attitude didn’t help her relationship with Lucy, either. He overheard Lucy ask her mother why Peyton was so unfriendly. Ross slithered into silence, his frustration roping him in knots. Before he sank deeper, he refocused on the chef as he set out the sauces for the meat and shrimp.

Frustration turned to guilt. He’d noticed Peyton watching Lucy and her mother with longing written on her face. She missed her mom. She’d been six, and the loss had overwhelmed them both. How could he be a mother, too? He leaned closer to Peyton. “Did you like the soup and salad?”

She shrugged. “It was good.”

“Look there.” He motioned to the grill. “Here comes your favorite.”

She eyed the shrimp. “I like steak better.”

Pressing his lips closed, Ross gave up. When she was in a snit, nothing pleased her.

The chef stood over the scorching griddle, juggling his spatulas, flipping severed shrimp tails into his tall hat, then flicking a grilled shrimp onto Lucy’s plate. Her eyes as blue as her mother’s opened wide while she giggled and attempted to pick up the shrimp with chopsticks. It fell, but she only laughed and tried again.

The chef glided past them, mounding the shrimp appetizer onto each attractive dish before he pulled out a knife the size of a machete and chopped and grilled zucchini and bean sprouts.

“Dad, why didn’t he flick a shrimp onto my plate?” Ross’s heart constricted, hearing Peyton’s disappointed voice. “We’re not finished eating yet, sweetie, and Lucy is clapping and showing her appreciation. Maybe that’s why he picked her.”

“But it’s my birthday.” She lifted her shoulders up to her ears and let them fall.

His frustration and guilt multiplied. Despite her illness, Peyton had to learn that she still had to deal with people of all kinds. He’d tried to teach her that showing appreciation encouraged people to respond in a positive way. Sometimes he even cringed at her lack of gratitude when he went out of his way to show her his love in a special way. Weighted with helplessness, Ross wondered if Peyton would have been different if Ruthie had lived.

The evening hadn’t started out well. When the hostess seated them, he had tried to manipulate Peyton in the middle beside Lucy, but she withdrew and sat beside him on the end. Kelsey took the seat next to him while Lucy sat on the other end—two girls like bookends. He hoped Peyton would brighten at their next stop, a surprise he thought she’d enjoy.

Having Kelsey beside him reminded him how nice it was to be a couple. They laughed and chatted like old friends, and he had a difficult time realizing they’d only met a short time ago. She fit into his life, and if the girls became friends, she could likely become a good friend. When he gazed at her profile, his pulse tripped. Connecting with a woman in such a natural way turned his life around. Ross spent his days concentrating on and worrying about Peyton, and Kelsey had become a needed distraction. A beautiful and amazing distraction.

She angled his way, her eyes catching his, and his pulse did more than trip. He hoped nothing went wrong with their friendship, but he’d prayed for his wife and for Peyton, too. God seemed to pick and choose which prayers He would answer.

The chef’s eyes caught his, and he leaned closer. “Is this the birthday girl?”

Ross nodded, and the man gave him a subtle wink.

Along with the other vegetables, the chef had placed thick slices of onion on the huge griddle, and while he chopped some of them, he allowed a few to grill. Within moments, he began selecting the onion rings from large to smaller, forming a cone. Lucy craned her neck to watch, and he nudged Peyton. “I think he’s doing this for you.”

She gazed up at him, her hazel eyes brighter than they’d been.

They watched him pour a liquid into the center of the rings and then turn to Peyton. “We don’t have birthday candles, but I’ve made you a birthday volcano.” He struck a match, held it over the center of the cone and a large flame shot from the top. Everyone at the table oohed, and Kelsey broke into the happy-birthday song. He and Lucy joined in, along with the chef and strangers sitting at their table surrounding the grill. Peyton beamed at the special attention, and it did his heart good.

She hadn’t said thank you, but she’d smiled, and the chef smiled back as he went from plate to plate with the vegetables before he prepared the meat.

Lucy leaned across her mother. “That was neat. Better than a birthday cake, right, Peyton?”

Peyton only nodded.

Lucy settled back in her chair, and Ross sent up a prayer that the Lord intervene in a big way as the evening went on, or tonight could be a total bust.

Kelsey watched the girls moving from exhibit to exhibit, delving into every hands-on physics experiment they ran across. Never having visited the Cranbrook Institute of Science, now she wished she’d brought Lucy here before. The place amazed her and delighted Lucy.

As the girls examined the equipment, learning how matter works, she’d found a bench and rested her feet. For some dumb reason, she’d worn pumps. But then dinner meant sitting. She grinned, recalling that Ross had stressed that the evening wouldn’t end with their meal.

As always, Lucy’s curiosity whetted her appetite not to miss a thing. She’d taken in all of the Cape Farewell exhibit, and wherever they went, Lucy had tried to engage Peyton, but the girl who rarely smiled seemed to withdraw into herself the more Lucy tried. Lucy’s disappointment showed, and Kelsey’s heart wrenched for Peyton as well as Ross. He’d tried so hard to engross her in conversation with Lucy numerous times without success.

Though the evening hadn’t been a disaster, Ross had obviously hoped for much more. Kelsey beckoned to him, seeing stress growing on his face.

He sidled next to her and released a lengthy sigh. “Sorry about the evening. As I said, Peyton has her moody times, and today seems to be one of them.”

“You’ve given her a great birthday celebration so don’t beat yourself up.”

“I know, but—”

She touched his arm. “Was it us? Is she distant because we’re here?”

He patted the back of her hand. “I really don’t think so. At home she’s often the same way. She stays in her room.” He pursed his lips, as if trying to bottle his emotions. “I don’t know what to do anymore.”

She lifted her other hand and covered his, wishing she had Solomon’s wisdom. “Have you discussed Peyton’s behavior with her? You said some very meaningful things when you told me about her problems.” She lifted her hand and pressed it against his cheek, seeing his good looks tense with disappointment. “Think of times you’ve been rebuffed or you felt out of it in a crowd. It’s so easy to step back so you won’t experience those feelings again. We protect ourselves that way.” She lowered her hand. “Maybe Peyton doesn’t understand why she feels the way she does.”

“It’s a defense mechanism, one we all use at times.” He rubbed his temple. “But if she never tries, she’ll never realize that she can make friends.”

His eyes captured hers with a desperate look that tore at her heart.

“She needs a woman’s love, and though my mom is so good to Peyton, that’s about all the female contact she has. I have no siblings, so Peyton has no aunts or cousins. It’s tragic in a way.”

Her mind spun. “I see why you’re frustrated.”

“If she’d give you and Lucy a chance, you could make a difference for her.” He closed his eyes and shook his head.

His comment jolted her. Was that what the friendship meant to him? She tried to let the thought slip from her mind but couldn’t. “I’m not sure I like—”

Ross’s eyes bolted open. “What I said was crude. Please don’t think that I’m befriending you only because of Peyton.”

Though she weighed her words, Kelsey let them fly. “I wondered.” Better to end the friendship now, than to be hurt.

He shifted on the bench to face her. “Can I be honest?”

“I’d like that more than anything.”

“I’m not good at this, but I’ll try to explain. I like you. Really like you. You’re a beautiful woman, but you mean more to me than what’s on the outside. I like your common sense. I like your bravery. When we’re not stressed, you make me laugh.”

“You’ve given me a few chuckles, too.” A strong need to lighten the moment struck Kelsey. He’d been through enough today.

“Let me finish. I haven’t had a social life since Ruthie died. First I wasn’t ready, and then Peyton was diagnosed—” “What happened to your wife? Are you divor—” “She died.”

Died. The word sank to Kelsey’s stomach.

“She died from cardiomyopathy. The same disease Peyton has.”

She gasped. The news struck her hard. “Ross, that’s too much for anyone. No wonder you’re struggling.”

“Peyton’s illness was caught sooner. I recognized the symptoms, and though I tried to pretend they weren’t there, I faced it. We have hope with Peyton. God willing, lots of hope.”

Kelsey captured his hands in hers. “I’ll pray for you and Peyton every day. I realize we’re new friends, but I’m sick at heart learning this.”

“To be honest, I hate to tell people. I don’t want sympathy or pity. I’m strong and capable.”

“You are. I can see that, but you can accept people’s understanding.”

His head bobbed in agreement. “That’s important.”

“Mom, did you see what I did with that ball?” Lucy bounded to their sides, pointing at one of the experiments.

“No, I’m sorry. I missed what you did.” She glanced at Ross, sensing that their conversation had stopped at a bad time.

Lucy beckoned to her. “I’ll show you.” Ross rose as he checked his watch. “I have one more surprise for you girls.”

Lucy bounced on her toes. “Another surprise?”

His valiant effort to stay positive warmed Kelsey’s heart.

“We’re going to see a show called Space Park in the planetarium. It’s 3-D projections choreographed to music.” He rose and swiveled around, searching for Peyton. When she glanced his way, he waved to her. “We should get in line or we’ll miss it.”

“Speaking of missing it …” Kelsey opened her purse. “We have a present for Peyton.”

Peyton arrived in time to hear her, and a glint of interest flashed in her eyes. “A present?”

“Yes, a birthday present.” Kelsey eyed Ross. “Do we have one minute?”

He nodded as she dug into her bag and pulled out a small, gift-wrapped box. She handed it to Peyton. “Happy birthday.”

Lucy snuggled in beside her. “I hope you like it.”

Peyton tore off the paper, and Kelsey stooped and cleared it from the floor, along with the ribbon, while Peyton opened the lid and looked inside. “Daddy.” She held it up.

He grasped the box and looked inside. “That’s your birthstone. Amethyst. It’s beautiful.”

He returned it to her. “Would you like to wear it?”

She nodded, and he unhooked the heart-shaped pendant from the flaps and fastened it around her neck. “It’s a heart for Valentine’s day.”

Lucy peered at it. “It’s pretty.” She eyed Kelsey. “I’d like a birthstone, too.”

“Yours would be different, though.”

Peyton’s comment surprised Kelsey. “She’s right, Lucy. Your birthstone is sapphire.”

Lucy looked puzzled.

“That’s a bright blue.” Kelsey looked around the room for something that color.

“Sapphire like your eyes.” Ross tilted Lucy’s chin and grinned. “The same as your mom’s.”

Kelsey’s pulse fluttered.

“Sapphire.” Lucy peered into her mother’s eyes. “I love blue.”

Peyton fingered her necklace. “I like purple.”

Ross jumped in. “Well, I like purple and blue.”

Kelsey gave him a poke, hearing sarcasm in his voice. She feared that he had had enough. “What did your daddy give you for your birthday?” A new topic was in order.

“Three books to add to my Nancy Drew collection and a gift card for Macy’s for some new clothes.”

Lucy leaned against Kelsey. “Mom, I need some new clothes.”

Her expression disappointed Kelsey. Lucy rarely showed envy as she did tonight. Instead of a comment, she gazed at her watch.

“We’d better get in line or we’ll miss the show,” Ross said.

She followed Ross, but her mind stayed with her worry—the girls’ competition. Purple. Blue. Maybe rivalry was natural. Lucy sometimes butted heads with Cooper, but two girls the same age should have a few things in common. These two seemed to be at opposite ends of the spectrum.

Ross would do anything for Peyton. She would do anything for Lucy. So where did that leave her and Ross? At opposite ends, too?

Chapter Four

Kelsey’s spine knotted with anticipation, waiting to open the MOSK meeting. She pushed back her shoulders and pulled them forward, hoping to relieve the stress. Despite reservations, she’d settled her mind to her mission. She had to, now that she’d met Ross and understood his need.

Her gaze drifted over the women, recalculating a way to approach the topic without laying too much out in the open. She’d almost hoped Lexie wouldn’t attend, because she knew too much about the situation, and Kelsey knew she’d feel guilty if she didn’t put everything on the table. Facts, feelings and familiarity. Maybe that was the problem. Being too close to Ross and her roiling emotions may have undermined her wisdom and skewed her ability to see all sides of the issue.

The clock hand ticked past the hour, and a couple of women eyed their watches. She had to begin. The agenda gave her time to think through her points, and she hoped by the end of their sharing time, she would have the right words.

Kelsey clapped her hands together and managed a grin. “I’m glad to see so many of you here today. We have some things to talk about, but first, we begin by sharing.” She shifted her gaze to the back of the room. “I see a couple of visitors with us. Welcome. If you have questions, please ask.

We’re here to support each other in any way we can. Now—” she gestured toward the seating arrangement “—let’s scoot our chairs around to form a circle today. It’s nice when we can see everyone.”

The women shifted—some standing and moving their seats and others wiggling their chairs into position. When they’d formed a ragged circle, she turned to Ava.

“Ava, why don’t you start? Tell us about your week, and introduce yourself to our guests.”

Ava raised her hand with a wave, as if wanting to make sure everyone knew who she was, and began. “I’m Ava Darnell, a single mom. My son, Brandon, has Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He’s fourteen.” She gazed at the women in the back of the room as muffled sounds of compassion rippled toward her. “We had good news this week. This round, we had an excellent report. His blood tests showed a little improvement, and he has more energy than he’s had in a long time.”

Words of assurance echoed through the room before the next mom began her news, but Kelsey’s attention slipped into her thoughts and the voices faded. Though she tried to focus, she was concentrating on her goal for the meeting.

Ross’s image had rattled through her mind since Peyton’s birthday. He wanted so much for his daughter, but until Peyton was willing to give and take a chance, Ross’s hopes would never come to fruition. Ideas kept coming, but how could she step in and influence changes? Her actions would result in resentment from Peyton and Ross. She would make Ross feel like a failure as a dad, and he wasn’t. Ross gave so much. She saw it in his face and his actions. He tried so hard it broke her heart.

Lucy’s disappointment made her sad, too. She’d wanted her to be friends with Peyton, but the girl didn’t budge toward acceptance at all. She’d reacted the opposite and thwarted everyone’s efforts to extend her a happy birthday. Kelsey refused to put Lucy through that again.

But then she envisioned Peyton. Lonely. Lost. Forlorn. An ache flared in Kelsey’s chest. She would talk with Lucy and explain. Lucy could take it. She was strong and kind.

Kelsey’s attention snapped back to the women. She’d missed the guests’ introductions, and guilt assailed her. A moderator needed to focus and be on top of things. She rose and managed a pleasant smile. “Thanks everyone for sharing from your heart, especially our visitors.” She scanned the faces. “Did we miss anyone?” She would have known had she paid attention.

Blank looks stared back. She’d goofed. “I mean, do we have any other thoughts?”

Some heads nodded no. Others swiveled to scan the room.

“Then, it’s time to move on. We have two topics today. One has to do with a fundraiser we’d like to sponsor to help our members who are having financial problems. The other is one I’d like to bring up … again.”

Expressions changed when she added again.

“So let me offer this now as food for thought.” She lifted her shoulders and dragged in a lengthy breath. “A while ago we voted on whether we should allow men to join this organization. Most of us are single parents, but some are married. The consensus was that men want to ‘do’ rather than ‘talk.’ Most of us agreed.”

Heads nodded and rumblings of examples buzzed among them.

“That’s why I’m here,” one of the guests said. “My husband puts his head in the sand. He doesn’t want to face what our daughter is going through. He deals with the information but not the pain we’re all feeling.”

Kelsey nodded, wishing someone would come up with an illustration to support a man’s need to be open. “That’s what we agreed on.” Ross’s words filled her mind. “But recently I’ve met a man who is interested in a support group, and ours fits his time, schedule and location. I challenged him with the same things you’re saying. Men don’t want to talk about their feelings. They want action. They want to do something. And his response took the wind out of me.” She surveyed the room, hoping her next words would touch them as they had her. “He said that when a man has a sick child there’s little he can do.”

An intake of breath dotted the room. Some women squirmed, gazing at the ceiling or the floor, anywhere but at each other. “He said more. He said it’s hard to open up, but he thought he would benefit from hearing others’ struggles and knowing he’s not alone. And he thought he could learn from others’ experiences.”

Ava jumped in. “We do learn from each other’s situations. It’s taught me how to handle my grief and what to be grateful for. It’s easy to forget the good when we’re dealing with so much bad.”

Kelsey wanted to hug Ava. “I voted against men, too, but I’ve seen a different side of it now, and I realize that many single men have no one to talk with. They can’t show their feelings to their friends or coworkers because they don’t want to look weak. Where can they turn?”

“To groups like this.”

Lexie’s voice surprised her.

“Sorry, I’m late.” She pulled her shoulder from the doorframe and stepped into the room. “I’ve thought about this lately, too. Originally I was against it, but my feelings have changed since I met the man Kelsey’s talking about. And I’m sure he’s not the only one. We’re all parents. We love our kids whether we’re fathers or mothers. We all need support.”

“Thanks, Lexie.” Kelsey’s heart surged with her friend’s encouragement. “I’m not asking you to vote today. But I’m asking you to think about it during the week. Put yourself in a father’s position, and we’ll vote on it next week. Decide with your heart what’s best for all of us dealing with seriously ill children.”

Her hands trembled as she lowered them to her sides. “Now, let’s hear about the fundraiser idea.” She slipped into a chair, waiting for the tension to fade. Nothing would please her more than to tell Ross the group had opened the door to him and other men who loved their sick kids and needed support. Lord, please, give us an answer. If it’s not our door, open another one. Help us to show compassion.

Ross stood outside Ethan’s office door, grasping for courage to open it and talk. He liked Kelsey more than he wanted to admit, but his brain told him he was heading for trouble. But how could he explain it to Ethan and make sense? Ethan’s situation was different. Lexie’s boy had been fighting leukemia. Ethan supported her and Cooper without shortchanging his own child, since he had none. No conflict of interest there.

Ethan’s telephone receiver clicked as he hung up, and Ross stepped forward. Ethan’s back was to the door, but when he heard Ross’s steps, he swiveled around. “Hey, how’s it going?”

“Fine.” Not fine, but no one expected a truthful answer. “Am I interrupting?”

He brushed his hand in the air. “No. I have to make changes to some plans. The family can’t afford everything they want.” He shrugged. “We’ll do it in stages, I guess.”

Ross understood that problem. “Do you mind if I sit?”

Ethan’s eyebrows raised. “Not at all.” He tilted back in his chair. “Something wrong?”

Ross flicked his head, looking for words.

“Job or personal life?”

“Personal?”

The word caused Ethan to lean forward, placing his folded hands on his desk. “I hope you and Kelsey haven’t—”

“Nothing quite like that. We get along great.” He pressed his dry lips together. “It’s …”

“Have you seen her?”

“Yes.” The memory sank to the pit of his stomach. “I mean on a date?”

“Sort of. We went out for Peyton’s birthday. Lucy and Kelsey. Dinner and we went to the Cranbrook Institute of Science. They have all kinds of hands-on things for kids, plus a laser show.”

Ethan studied his face. “It didn’t go well? I mean with the girls?”

“Not as well as I’d hoped. Peyton wasn’t receptive. Things were tense.” Things were horrible.

“Peyton’s relationships have been limited, Ross. You can’t expect wonders. At least not that fast.”

“I know. I hoped. But I’m thinking and …” Ethan’s serious expression motivated him to spit out his concern. “I really like Kelsey. A lot. But my life belongs to Peyton, and I—”

“Ethan, your life doesn’t belong to Peyton. It’s yours. You give her your full attention because you love her. But you’re good at multitasking. You have to be as a contractor. Find ways to split your time, and you’ll be better for it.”

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