The Marine's Deadly Reunion by Loretta Eidson

Author:Loretta Eidson
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2023-10-17T19:48:30+00:00

NINE

Daria relaxed the moment she pulled into Robert and Gina’s driveway. Home away from home and filled with love. The moment they stepped out of the car, Alexa and Isaac met them. They’d been sliding in the snow and had already heard a baby was moving into the garage apartment. They were excited to see her, especially Alexa. She jumped up and down and clapped her gloved hands.

Robert opened the front door and greeted Jake with a handshake. “Hey, man, it’s great to see you after all these years. Come on in. Gina has lunch ready. She even had me get the high chair out of the attic for Emma.”

Daria made her way into the kitchen where Gina was pouring fresh glasses of iced tea. “We’re here. I have someone I want you to meet. Well, two someones.” She laughed. “This is the Jake Fisher you’ve already heard about. And this little doll is Emma.”

Gina held her hands out to Emma. She willingly fell into Gina’s arms, who turned and put her in the high chair with all kinds of snacks on the tray. Emma squealed and picked at her food.

Everyone sat at the table and talked about old times over a delicious pot roast lunch with all the fixings. Despite all the noise and conversation going on between Jake and Robert, Emma fell asleep. Daria’s eyes rolled as weariness caught up with her.

Gina placed her hand on Daria’s arm. “These guys can talk for hours. You look exhausted. Why don’t you go catch a nap on the couch? I’ll take care of Emma.”

Daria excused herself and moved to the living room. Her body seemed to understand it was going to rest in a safe place. The minute her head touched the cushion, everything went silent.

Laughter from the distance bolted her to her feet. She’d slept too long. The setting sun made the twinkling lights on Robert’s Christmas tree dance brighter, and the fragrance of his fresh tree reminded her it was the season she loved so much.

Daria followed the voices to the dim sunroom. Emma sat content in Jake’s lap. Robert and Gina sat on the sofa facing a foot of freshly fallen snow. The entire scene was a peaceful, heartwarming sight.

“I didn’t mean to sleep this late. My apologies.” Daria entered the room. “Have you shown Jake the garage apartment?”

“No. Thought we’d let you do the honors,” Robert said. “By the way, Jake, I figured you’d be about my size, so I set out some clean clothes for you. Hope they fit.”

Jake stood, holding Emma. “I’ve enjoyed catching up, and I appreciate having a place to stay.” He faced Daria. “Okay, show me my quarters.” He placed his hand on her back.

She drew in a breath at his touch. “Sure, but everyone still needs to put on their coats.”

In a matter of minutes, Daria unlocked the garage apartment. He roamed around, checking things out. Daria went into the spare room and turned down the cover on the toddler bed.

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