The Cowboy's Return by Linda Warren

Author:Linda Warren [Warren, Linda]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin American Romance
Published: 2010-10-18T07:00:00+00:00

Chapter Ten

“It’s cool Benita’s home, don’t you think, Mama?” Jilly leaned against the headboard in a big T-shirt and pink flannel pajama bottoms, cuddling Button.

“Benita and I have a different relationship than you.” Camila answered truthfully, like she always tried to do.

“But you love her.”

Did she? At ten, when Benita had left, she’d hated her for not fighting to take Camila. She’d wanted to be with her mother. After that, their relationship had been strained and they’d never talked about that time. Maybe now that they were older they should.

She glanced at Jilly’s expectant face. “Yes. I love her, but sometimes she makes me very angry.”

“Do I make you angry?”

“No.” Camila brushed Jilly’s hair back. “You never make me angry.”

Jilly fidgeted in the bed. “When you found out you were pregnant and my daddy was dead, were you angry you were going to have a baby?”

Her heart took a nosedive and it was a moment before she could answer. How could she tell her daughter about that awful time, the insecurities, the heartache and the pain? Camila kissed Jilly’s cheek, still wanting to be truthful. “I can honestly say I was never angry at you, just overwhelmed with grief and worry. I didn’t know how I was going to raise you, care for you.”

“But you did good. You’re the best mama in Bramble.”

“That’s because I have this wonderful daughter who’s an absolute joy.”

Jilly giggled and slid beneath the covers. “I love you, Mama.”

Camila straightened the blanket. Hearing those words made everything she went through worthwhile. Jilly made everything worthwhile.

“I love you, too, baby.”

She fiddled with the blanket knowing she had to tell Jilly about her talk with Tripp.

“I spoke with Tripp today.”

Jilly’s eyes sparkled. “You did? Is he okay?”

“Yes, and the Danielses would like to see you again.”

“Really?” Her eyes grew brighter. “I can go tomorrow.”

“You have basketball practice and you promised to help Mrs. Haskell.”

“Oh.” Jilly pleated the sheet. “Then I’ll go on Friday. I’ll leave right after school and take Button. Is that okay, Mama?”

Button, hearing her name, poked her head from beneath the covers and barked. Jilly gathered her close and Camila patted Button’s head.

“Yes. That’s okay, but I’ll drive you. I don’t like you going that far on your bicycle.”

“Okay, Mama. Good night.” Jilly gave her a quick kiss.

“Good night, baby.”

♦ ♦ ♦

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