Pawfect Christmas Hearts by Josie Riviera

Author:Josie Riviera
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Josie Riviera

Relieved that the power to the toy shop had been restored, Penelope hummed the melody of “Angels We Have Heard on High.” A tabernacle choir belted the carol from her truck’s radio as she headed back toward Hilton Head. The manager had phoned, and everything was under control.

As she stepped into the houseboat, she was still humming the carol. “Surprise! I’m back!” she called out.

Hmm. Her smile turned to a frown of dismay when no male voices greeted her. A quick search indicated that Evan had headed to the beach and Jacob had accompanied him.

As she swapped her shoes for a pair of beach flats, her mood elevated again. A rush of happiness spread through her at her son’s decision to swim. He seemed to be gaining confidence and self-assurance, and she attributed both to Jacob’s excellent influence.

Jacob was responsible and caring, intent on building a careful and considerate rapport with Evan. He clearly enjoyed the boy’s company, communicating and focusing on him.

She closed the distance on the short path to Pelican Beach, following sandy footprints. She paused and shaded her eyes. Head down, Jacob stood talking on his cell phone.

Her gaze riveted on Evan poised at the top of a rocky ledge.

A wave of icy, stark fear flowed through her, and her blood froze.

Her son was a good swimmer. But—

Without warning, Evan lost his balance on the rocks.

“Evan, be careful!” She trembled. Her pulse skittered.

He righted himself and stretched out his arms.

Unease spun up her spine. She broke into a run at the sight of him diving into the water and heard herself scream. A lead weight took up residence in her stomach.

From her peripheral vision, she noticed Jacob. He’d clicked off his cell phone and stood motionless for a split-second. His failure to act didn’t escape her.

“Jacob!” She caught up with him and grabbed his arm as he lunged toward the water with her. “What are you waiting for?”

A roll of waves washed up to the shore, as Evan broke the water’s surface.

Penelope reached him first. “Have you lost all your common sense?” Her speech was mumbled, echoing in her ears. Her mouth was dry.

Evan’s wet swimming trunks were plastered to his legs. He was drenched.

“Don’t have a fit, Mom. I didn’t fall in if that’s what you’re upset about.”

Despite the coolness in the air, she was sweating. “Think about how high the ledge is. What you did was nothing short of reckless.” She glared at Jacob as she wrenched a towel from him. Her hands shook as she wrapped the towel around her shivering son.

The threesome returned to the houseboat without speaking, their footfalls heavy in the sand. Evan pleaded tiredness, grabbed a protein bar from the kitchen, and headed to his bedroom.

Jacob walked with her to the living room.

“Wanna talk about this?” He crossed his arms, his hip perched on the side of the sofa.

Still fuming, she snapped, “No!”

“Okay. I understand.” He gazed at her, waiting several seconds. “Are you certain?”

“More than certain.”

“Right. Sure.” Soundlessly, he strode from the room.

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