Lakeside Romance (11 page)

Had it really been only a week since they'd found her? Seemed longer. At least now she wasn't snapping every time he tried to pet her. Nor did she try to hide. How long should he keep looking for her owner before he called it good enough? He needed to make a vet appointment to get her vaccinated and microchipped. Plus, she needed a dog license, but he didn't want to do that if someone was going to come and claim her.

Did he want to risk getting attached only to lose her? The sweet girl needed to know someone cared for her. Someone was going to protect her and remind her she'd never be alone again.

Did that go for him, too?

For the first time since losing Christy, he was contemplating his future. A month ago, he wouldn't even consider it. Now every time he thought about it, Sarah kept coming to mind. Was it possible he wasn't destined to spend the rest of his life alone? Maybe it was okay for him to move on and find happiness again. Honestly, he didn't want to spend the rest of his life alone.

So where did he go from there? How did he put one foot in front of the other and start thinking about romance again? Maybe he could begin by asking Sarah out on a real date and go from there.

Now he just needed to work up the courage to do it.

A thump sounded on the porch.

Eliza's ears perked up. Her head swiveled toward the front porch. Then she jumped down, barked and raced across the room.

Alec pushed off the couch and made his way to the front door. He grabbed Eliza's leash and clipped it to her collar, then opened the door to find Sarah on her knees rounding up apples with one hand before they rolled off the edge of the porch.

Eliza pulled on her leash and barked at Sarah.

“Let me help you.” Still holding on to the dog's leash, Alec snatched a few and dropped them in one of the grocery bags. Grabbing the handles of the rest of the bags, he jerked his head toward her apartment. “If you get the doors, I'll carry these upstairs for you.”

“You don't have to do that. I can get them.” Fatigue threaded her words, which she punctuated with a yawn, as she scooped up the pup.

“I want to.” Should he be concerned that she didn't seem to meet his gaze? He tipped her chin up. Dark circles shaded her eyes. “You okay?”

She turned her face, but not before he caught the welling of tears. “Yes, just tired. Nancy Obenhaus, the boys' grandma, was admitted into the hospital again last night. She developed a blood clot in her leg. They wanted to visit with her while I ran a few errands. I need to head back there.”

“I'm sorry.” Alec set the bags by the door and touched her shoulder. “What can I do to help?”

“How do you feel about cloning? Another one of me would be great.” She dropped to sit on the top step and tucked Eliza in her lap. “For now, I'll snuggle with this little fur ball.”

Sitting next to her, he draped an arm around her shoulders and gave her a gentle squeeze. She sighed and rested her head on his shoulder. “I'm tired, Alec.”

“I can hear it in your voice.”

“I love those boys, and they're so great, you know, but balancing everything on my plate is a struggle, especially now that Nancy is back in the hospital. With working all day at the community center, spending a couple of hours in the evenings to finish up Emmett's house, visiting Nancy, trying to throw something edible together for dinner and then taking the boys back to their place to hang out for a bit...my day is shot. Then we get up the next morning, and it's wash, rinse, repeat. I don't know how single parents do it.”

“They do it because they have to. But you're trying to do too much. Part of that is my fault. Forget about Emmett's place.”

“No, the contractor comes in August, and I said I'd have everything done by then. I'm not going back on my word after you've given up a lot to help me with teaching the teens to cook at the center. No way is this going to be a one-sided arrangement. We'll be done in a couple of weeks anyway.”

“And in the meantime, you're running yourself ragged. Something needs to give before you're the one in the hospital. The rest of the sorting and organizing can wait.”

“Is it selfish to want a hot bath and a nap?” She blew out a long breath.

“Go for it. I can get the boys and take them back to their place or bring them here...whatever they need to do.” Anything to bring the spark back to her eyes.

“Thanks, but I'll manage. In a minute. Right now, I need to sit for two more minutes and snuggle this precious puppy.” Sarah buried her face in Eliza's fur. “Is she responding to her name yet?”

“Not yet, but she continues to make progress.”

“Of course she does. Soon she'll be a real lady.”

“You chose a good name for her.”

“I figured it was fitting after watching the movie, then seeing how darling she looked when she was cleaned up.”

“Seriously, Sarah, what can I do to help? And don't be stubborn by telling me ‘nothing.'”

Sarah stood, still holding on to Eliza in one arm, and shielded her eyes from the sun. “I don't even know right now. I need to get back to the hospital, check in with the doctor and then go from there.”

“You promise to call me if you need anything?”

“Yes, I promise.” She handed the dog back to Alec, then reached down to pick up her grocery bags. “I'll stop by later with an update.”

She headed up to her apartment as if putting one foot in front of the other was a chore. He wanted to rush after her, pull her into his arms and let her know everything was going to be okay. But he couldn't make that promise because he knew from experience life threw curveballs. He also knew, however, he could help her catch them.

Right now, she needed to know someone cared and she didn't have to go at it alone.

He headed back into his apartment and released Eliza from her leash. She scampered over to her bed and curled up on the pink cushion.

He pulled out his laptop, an idea forming. While they were at the Celebrate the Lake event, she mentioned loving blueberry cheesecake. In fact, she'd wavered between that and the salted-caramel hot chocolate when it came to the ice cream flavors.

He searched online for a recipe and then typed a grocery list into his phone. He'd make a simple dinner for her and the boys to eat whenever they made it back.

And flowers. Just because. Something to make her smile.

With his plan in place, he crated Eliza—not ready to let her roam freely in the house yet—and then grabbed his keys off the side table before heading out the door.

He didn't even try to convince himself he was only helping a friend. No, he was ready to show Sarah he could take the next step...whatever that was.

Chapter Eleven

A
ny other time Sarah would've jumped at the incredible opportunity her friend Jonah had just presented her, but at the moment, the job offer weighed her down. One more decision to make.

Mission coordinator for Proclaim Missions. It would be so perfect for her—traveling internationally and coordinating work teams. If she accepted the position, though, it would mean moving closer to Proclaim Missions headquarters in Virginia.

Was she ready to make such a commitment? Leave everything behind again to start fresh?

So much had changed since she'd applied for it a year ago. Her life had been mapped out. Adam had encouraged her to go for it after they'd organized a work team to Swaziland. She and Jonah had continued to stay in touch even after Adam ended their engagement.

He was the one who'd told her about it, but he hadn't expected the opening until the end of the season, which would've given her time to finish the summer outreach program. But the post had just become available, and she wasn't sure if she was ready.

Funny how much her life had changed in the past two months.

Now, entering August, she needed to choose between a full-time dream job that would give her life direction—or her newfound responsibilities.

What about Daniel? Toby? The other teens she'd been mentoring. Not to mention her family. And Alec.

Oh, boy. He was making it so hard to keep her distance, especially when he made amazing cheesecake and had a beautiful basket of wildflowers delivered with a card that read,
Just a little something to make you smile.

Yes, Jonah's phone call complicated things. She'd told him she needed time to consider the offer, and he'd understood but mentioned he'd need an answer soon.

She'd talk it over with Caleb and Zoe later. Sarah knew they'd help her make the right decision. Now, though, she needed to hustle, or she'd be late for work. As it was, she'd sent the boys ahead and asked them to tell Alec she might be running behind.

With one minute to spare, she walked into the community center.

Instead of the usual chaos, the teens were gathered around the large worktable in the kitchen with their focus intently on Alec. She couldn't hear his words, but the way he gestured with his hands brought a huge smile to her face.

As she approached, she realized he was sharing the story about the liquid nitrogen ice cream. Judging by the teens' expressions and enthusiasm, having Chef Scott and Chef Mitchell come in to demonstrate would be well received. And, seriously, how could they go wrong with N'ice Cream?

Alec caught her gaze and gave her a little wave. “Okay, guys, time to get to work now that the boss is here.”

She tried to ignore the way her heart somersaulted.
Get a grip, girl.

While the teens tied on their aprons, gathered the ingredients for today's recipes and washed their hands, Alec came over and handed her an apron. “Everything okay? Boys said you had an important call.”

She slipped it over her head and nodded. “Yes.”

He looked at her with questions in his eyes but refrained from asking.

She didn't elaborate. This wasn't the time or place for a discussion of that depth. Besides, she needed to get her thoughts in order before she could convey them to someone else. She'd set them aside and focus on what she was getting paid to do.

The teens had a final week of cooking before they moved on to the other segments of the program.

It wouldn't be the same without Alec here every day. Even though he could commit only to the two hours they'd agreed upon, his presence gave her motivation to improve her own skills and assist the teens to do better.

But maybe it was for the best, as this would help her to put distance between them.

She couldn't ignore that little piece of her heart that reminded her about the way he'd changed around the teens. Since the day she'd sprained her wrist, he'd been different. More open and much less on the defensive with them.

But then her head butted in and she was reminded that he was still closed off when it came to his faith.

Focus.

She had cooking to teach.

“Listen, guys, this is our last week of cooking. Next week Josie and Nick Brennan will be coming to teach you about résumé writing and job interviewing in the mornings. Then Chloe Seaver, who happens to be Alec's sister and the owner of Shining Stars Early Learning Center, will be here in the afternoons helping you learn about child care. Plus, James Butler, one of Shelby Lake's paramedics, will be teaching basic first aid and CPR.”

Garrett jerked his head to fling his hair out of his eyes and crossed his arms over his chest. “I'd rather cook than learn that boring stuff. At least this is fun.”

Sarah laughed. “Sorry, dude, life isn't all fun and games.”

“Hey, guys, before we get started, I have something for you.” Alec pulled an envelope out of his back pocket and tapped it against his palm. “I, uh, have to be honest and say I wasn't crazy about helping you guys cook when Sarah first asked me. But I'm glad we had the opportunity to work together. You've done a great job.” He pulled a stack of cards out of the envelope and handed one to each of the teens. “I know money's tight these days, but you've been learning how to buy decent food on a budget. Maybe this will help.”

“Whoa. Is this like for real?” Amber looked at him with widened eyes, a smile brightening her face.

Alec nodded. “One hundred percent legit.”

“Awesomesauce.” She threw her arms around his neck and hugged him. “Thank you.”

Sarah peeked over Daniel's shoulder and nearly choked. Alec had handed out eighteen gift cards worth $100 each at the local grocery store. She shot him a quizzical look.

He leaned against the edge of the sink and shrugged.

She walked over to him. “What an incredibly generous gift, Alec.”

“Figured it would help their families.”

Sarah wanted to wrap her arms around his neck just as Amber had done and lay her head on his chest, but she couldn't do that in front of the kids. Or ever.

Garrett ambled over to them and extended his hand to Alec. “Hey, man, thanks for the gift card. That was pretty cool.”

Alec shook his hand and clapped the kid on the shoulder. “No problem.”

“Hey, um, you don't have to say yes, and I totally get it if you don't want to, but the thing is I'll be a senior when school starts.” Garrett stuffed his hands in his pockets and kicked the toe of his Converses into the chipped linoleum. A red flush crawled up his neck. “Ma keeps naggin' me to start thinking about my future and all that. So I was wondering, would you guys maybe be willing to write me letters of recommendation I could submit with my application to culinary school?”

Sarah smiled and wrapped an arm around his shoulders. “That's great, G. I'd be honored.”

“Really? Awesome.” He grinned.

“Me, too, man. You'll make a great chef.” Alec held out a fist.

Garrett bumped knuckles, his grin growing wider. “Thanks, dude. Maybe I'll study the molecular gastronomy you told us about.”

Sarah's chest ballooned with pride. Even if the board chose not to continue the outreach program, she'd consider Garrett's announcement a measurement of success.

A quick glance at the clock showed they had less than an hour left of Alec's time. Since this week was all about desserts, he'd agreed to help them make a basic cheesecake with their choice of toppings. She had Cindy, the church secretary, put out a plea for springform pans in the church bulletin. Of course, now they had more than they needed.

Before Sarah could get them started mixing the cream cheese with the sugar, her phone buzzed in her pocket. She pulled it out and read the number on the screen. Her heart slammed against her rib cage. She shot Alec a sharp look. “Start without me. I need to take this.”

She hurried out of the kitchen and answered as she pushed through the side door. She gripped the railing as the caller relayed the news she was so hoping not to hear. She replied to questions through the thickening in her throat. Tears slipped down her cheeks as her chest shuddered. She ended the call and clutched her phone so tightly that if she let go, surely she'd fall apart.

The door opened behind her. She brushed the heel of her hand over her eyes.

“Sarah?” Alec's quiet voice snipped the thin thread seaming her composure.

She whirled around and buried her face into his chest as sobs erupted from her.

His arms slid around her and held her close. He kissed the top of her head and murmured words she couldn't make out.

She struggled to catch her breath and regain her composure, but the doctor's words echoed in her ears, causing fresh tears to cascade down her face.

“Sarah, what's wrong?”

Sarah looked up at Alec, his face blurring in her watery gaze. “That was Dr. Nobles, Nancy's doctor. She passed away about fifteen minutes ago.”

“Oh, honey, I'm so sorry. What happened?”

“They're not certain, but they suspect it had something to do with the blood clot in her leg. I have to tell Daniel and Toby.” The thought flooded her eyes with fresh tears. “This is going to wreck them.”

“Want me to get them for you?”

“Yes, please.”

While Alec went back inside, Sarah wiped her eyes with the hem of her fitted T-shirt and struggled to pull herself together.

Alec returned a moment later. Daniel and Toby looked at her with alarm. “What's going on, Sarah?”

“Guys, there's no easy way to say this... Your grandma passed away about twenty minutes ago.”

“What? No! That can't be. She was getting better. She was coming home.” Toby glared at her as his eyes filled.

“I know, honey. I'm so sorry.” She pulled him into her arms, his head brushing her chin. He tightened his grip around her waist.

Daniel ground his jaw, his lips tight as he struggled with the news. “What now, Sarah? What about us? We've got nobody.”

Moving Toby to her left side, she grabbed Daniel and pulled him to her and wrapped her arm around his waist. “You've got me. I promise nothing's going to happen to you.”

The three of them stood on the concrete steps of the community center, clinging to one another and sobbing as their broken hearts collected on the sidewalk. In an instant, their lives had just changed forever. God only knew where they'd go from here.

* * *

Alec hated funeral homes, but he needed to be there for Sarah, Daniel and Toby.

Rows of chairs lined the side of the viewing room at Lakeside Funeral Home. Pale pink walls, plush rose-colored carpet, music playing softly in the background from a piped-in system, and bookcases filled with stacks of books, landscape photos and artificial flower arrangements tried to give the visitors a welcoming feel as if they were stepping into someone's living room. But the open casket was a reminder of their purpose for being there.

Visitors spoke in hushed tones punctuated by sniffling and muffled sobs. Daniel and Toby stood side by side accepting sympathies from those who came to pay their respects. The guys wore dark suits, polished shoes and coordinating blue patterned ties they probably wouldn't want to wear again—anything to separate them from any reminder of the day. Or at least that was how Alec had felt the day his dad had been laid to rest with full military honors.

When Christy was killed, they'd had a memorial service—a so-called celebration of her life—as they had no body to bury. At that time, Alec hadn't felt like celebrating her life. All he knew was his own existence wouldn't be the same again.

Overwhelming fragrance from the sprays of fresh flowers sitting on pedestals around the room mingled with various perfumes and colognes, giving him a headache and clogging his sinuses.

He needed some fresh air, but he hated to leave in case Sarah or one of the boys needed him. They hadn't asked him to stay, but he knew what it was like having familiar support. He'd caught Sarah's eye on more than one occasion as she'd searched the room and found him. Her tired smile kept him in the room.

He glanced at the grandfather clock in the corner. Ten more minutes. Then visitation would be over. The boys could shed their suits and polite smiles and chill out for a while.

Sarah had been right—they were good kids. He'd judged all of them based on the actions of one broken kid a long time ago.

What if he hadn't reported Justin's bruises? Or if Justin hadn't learned of his mother's actions? Then what? Would the kid have turned out differently? Would Christy still be alive?

The last of the visitors left. Sally, the funeral director, spoke to Sarah, Daniel and Toby in hushed tones. Alec couldn't make out their words, nor did he want to intrude on a private conversation, but he saw her give each of them a hug.

The boys looked at Sarah as if to ask “Now what?”

She put an arm around each of them and drew them close. He saw her blink back tears as she comforted them.

“Let's get out of here and get something to eat,” Alec said as he moved over to them and placed his hands on the boys' shoulders. Daniel stiffened and remained stoic.

“I'm not hungry.” The boy jerked away from Alec and flopped onto one of the chairs.

Sarah sat next to him and wrapped an arm around him. “You need to eat.”

Jumping to his feet, Daniel clenched his fists and glared at Sarah, his voice rising. “Don't tell me what I need. You promised nothing was going to happen to us, but then suddenly we were shipped off to stay with total strangers.”

“It was only for one day. Because your grandma didn't have an appointed legal guardian, and I had only her verbal permission to keep you while she was in the hospital. Children and Youth Services had to get involved. I have my emergency certification now, so you can come back with me. Ian and Agnes James are licensed foster parents. Besides, they're good friends and related to my brother through marriage, so they're practically family.”