The Christmas Baby by Lisa Carter

Author:Lisa Carter
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin Enterprises, Australia Pty Ltd
Published: 2017-01-10T05:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twelve

A few days later, Mr. Carden caught Anna on her way to the after-school program. “A moment, Mrs. Reyes?”

Teacher or not, a visit by the principal provoked anxiety. She racked her brain for anything she’d done to deserve a reprimand. One week before break, surely he hadn’t come to fire her?

She needed this job and the paycheck for every day remaining on her interim contract. As to what she’d be doing after Ruby was born? She sighed. One obstacle at a time. God would provide as He always had.

Mr. Carden’s expression softened. “Nothing to worry about, Mrs. Reyes. On the contrary. I think I have good news for you.”

Good news she could use.

He smiled. “I’ve received nothing but glowing reports regarding your performance here.”

“Thank you, Mr. Carden. I hope you will consider including that in my personnel file.”

“Of course, I’d be happy to provide any references you require, but I hope it won’t be necessary.”

She frowned. “I don’t understand.”

“Mrs. Thompson telephoned today.”

Her mouth went dry. Was Mrs. Thompson returning from maternity leave early?

“She’s decided to remain at home with her baby for the rest of the school year. And I’d like to offer you the teaching position on a semi-permanent basis.” He inclined his head. “After you finish your own maternity leave, of course.”

Anna stared, not sure she’d heard him correctly. “For the rest of the year?”

“I can’t promise the same kindergarten position next year, but I’m pretty confident I’ll have a position for you in the fall, too.”

Thank You, God.

She threw her arms around the slightly rotund principal. His eyes bulged as her belly bumped into him. She let go. “Oh, I’m sorry.”

But Mr. Carden smiled as he straightened his tie. “I am delighted we will have you on board.”

That night, she and Ryan decorated her Christmas tree with handmade ornaments her kindergarten class made for her. It was maybe the best Christmas tree ever. Even Ryan gave his grudging approval.

When she told him about her news, he congratulated her. But there was something in his eyes she couldn’t decipher. Regret?

“Everything’s working out for you.” He glanced around the trailer. “And I hope as soon as your budget allows, you’ll find a better place to live, closer to town.”

She threw him a grin, hoping to make him smile. “And aren’t you thrilled you won’t be around to haul the boxes?”

He didn’t smile. “There is that.”

Anna’s smile faded. What had she wanted him to say? But she knew. She wanted him to say that once he took the new job off-Shore, he’d miss her as much as she’d miss him.

She tried again. “I guess you’ve started packing.”

He shrugged. “I’ll get to it.” And adjusted one of the seashell ornaments on the tree.

“Aren’t you eager to shake the Kiptohanock sand off your feet for bigger and better things?”

He shrugged. “Kiptohanock has a lot to recommend it, too.”

She tilted her head. “Like me.”

He exhaled. “It will be hard to say goodbye to my students.” Still he didn’t look at her.

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