Christmas with the Black Sheep by Natalie-Nicole Bates

Author:Natalie-Nicole Bates [Bates, Natalie-Nicole]
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Publisher: Books to Go Now
Published: 2014-11-16T16:00:00+00:00

“Eriah, how did your parents come up with your name? It’s so unique.”

“That’s easy,” he said placing a slice of pizza onto another plate, and sitting beside her on the sofa. It’s a family name of sorts. One grandfather was named Eric, the other, Josiah. It’s a combination of both names.”

She was enthralled by his explanation. “Wow, I love that. A family name. That is truly something special.” She paused, and wondered if she could ask him a question that truly puzzled her. “So, why would you allow your girlfriend to call you Riley?”

“Ex-girlfriend,” he gently corrected. “She hated the name Eriah. Said it reminded her of Uriah Heep.”

Her brows drew together. “From David Copperfield?” She was surprised his ex-girlfriend even read. “Or from the band?”

“That novel, I believe.”

She shook her head. “I’m sorry, but that’s just…wrong. I don’t think anyone has the right to change someone else’s name. It’s such a basic part of every human being.”

He lifted his slice of pizza. “I agree with you, Aylin, but sometimes it was easier to go along, rather than cause an argument. Not anymore though. By moving back to Barrow Haven, I made the commitment to become a better citizen than when I left. Taking back my name is the first step. She couldn’t accept that.” He paused then added, “She couldn’t accept a lot of things, like moving here permanently.”

“I think she was wicked to ask you to change your name, and just from a few brief interactions with her, I think she has a horrible attitude. Also, when you love someone, you do what is right for both of you, no matter the sacrifice. Barrow Haven isn’t skid row. It’s a lovely, safe town, with truly nice people.”

He chuckled. “You’re right, Aylin. I put up with it for too long.” He placed the pizza back onto the plate, and wiped his fingers with a paper towel. “Besides, she and I don’t have the same goals, the same outlook, and at this point in my life, I’m not willing to just settle, or compromise.”

This intrigued her. “What do you hope to accomplish? Besides reopening the business, of course.”

“A family—a wife and child. Someone who will love me, and show support, not try to tear me down, or change my mind.” He looked directly at her. “I think what I want isn’t asking for much. In return, I offer my love, loyalty, commitment, and security. Does that sound nutty?”

He wanted exactly what she did— a family. Maybe they had a lot more in common than she first thought. If this was the true Eriah Jameson, some woman might gain a very wonderful husband someday. “No, Eriah, I think that sounds nice. Really, really nice. Perfect, really.”

Then he did something completely unexpected. He kissed her, and continued to kiss her until she nearly swooned. Finally, she gently pulled back. There was something else she needed to know, before this went any further.

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