The Apple Orchard by Linda Barrett

Author:Linda Barrett
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2002-10-15T00:00:00+00:00

BUT STACEY would have been more gorgeous if she had chosen colors other than black, charcoal gray or dark brown. Abby said nothing, but was secretly glad when one navy-blue fleece top showed off the little girl’s eyes and saved the day. Everyone in the family cheered and clapped as Stacey appeared in each outfit, no matter what the color.

Jake sang “Thank Heaven for Little Girls”—offkey—every time she walked down the stairs. Stacey giggled, and for a half an hour or so, smiled and basked in the approval of her family.

Abby relaxed and joined in, exclaiming over the new brand-name sneakers and boots. Jake had spared no expense. The boots were lined for warmth, and the lining was removable for ease of drying.

“I’ve never really been up close and personal to winter clothes,” said Abby. “Real winter clothes for a real long winter.” She turned to Stacey. “How about trying on the new snowsuit for me. I’d love to see it.”

“Okay,” said Stacey as she ran upstairs. Abby flashed a look at Jake. “Doesn’t seem to mind the snowsuit now.”

“It’s been a good evening so far,” he said, happiness in his voice. “What a difference from this morning.”

He was as gorgeous as his daughter. Blue eyes twinkling under thick dark lashes, head thrown back, relaxed, confident. She hadn’t seen this side of him very much here in Sturbridge, but she’d bet that confidence was one of his biggest assets at the hospital. Amazing how a child could overturn an adult’s world.

“Enjoy the moment,” she said philosophically.

Jake raised an eyebrow, then burst into song once more as Stacey reentered the room attired in her new snowsuit.

“Beautiful,” exclaimed Abby.

“Perfect,” said Susan.

“Oh, Stacey,” continued Abby. “You look terrific in that. The colors, the pattern. Your whole face is bright and light. Let me see how the pants are done.”

Stacey walked toward her and unzipped the pink jacket. Bib-style purple overalls with pink appliqué flowers on the legs were underneath.

“Very clever, very nice,” said Abby.

“But I still don’t want to go to school on Wednesday.” Although her words were directed to the room in general, Stacey looked at Abby.

Abby truly hoped Jake had enjoyed his moment because it was now over. She glanced at him, but he said nothing, a sadness in his eyes. Then, from her seat on the couch, Abby reached for Stacey’s hands. The girl gazed at her with curiosity.

“I know, Stacey. I know you don’t want to go to school,” Abby confirmed. “I know you’re frightened.”

Tears instantly sprang into Stacey’s eyes, and Abby’s heart dropped. Was she going too fast? Would Jake interfere?

“So, let’s play a little game. Your cousins can play, too.” That last was an inspired suggestion, as she saw Stacey’s tears dissipate. Her mind raced thinking of the “game” they’d play. Something that could chip away, just chip away at the mountain in front of Stacey.

“First, we need a pretend magic wand,” said Abby.

“We got a real magic wand in our room,” answered the boys. They both

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