The Rebel's Return by Myra Johnson

Author:Myra Johnson
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2021-10-28T02:59:47+00:00

* * *

Seconds after Joella walked inside, Lindsey and Spencer ambushed her in the kitchen.

“What did you find out?” Lindsey pressed.

Spencer spoke over her. “Is Samuel okay?”

Joella held up both hands, palms outward. She’d anticipated this inquisition, so on the way home, she’d composed her response. “He’s fine. The phone call was from some guy he knew in Houston who used to date Sophie’s mother. He...he was saying some not-so-nice things, and Samuel got upset.”

Lindsey folded her arms and harrumphed. “How tacky. And after he’s worked so hard to turn his life around.”

“Maybe I should go over there,” Spencer said, starting for the door.

“Please don’t.” Snagging his arm, Joella shot him a pleading look. “He’s calmed down now, having some quiet time with Sophie. I’m sure he’ll be talking to you later.”

Spencer gave a reluctant nod, retreating to share a quick kiss with Lindsey before donning his hat and excusing himself to do some work in the barn.

Lindsey hadn’t given up so easily. She narrowed her eyes at Joella. “It’s just you and me now. Want to tell me what’s really going on?”

“I shouldn’t. Just let it blow over, okay?” Her phone rang, saving her from having to say more. “It’s the rental company. Probably confirming delivery for Arturo’s party.” Ducking around Lindsey, she headed for the study while pressing the answer button. “Hello, Joella James speaking.”

While on the phone with the rental company rep, she saw Lindsey ride out with Audra, most likely to check on the cattle. That would keep her friend busy and hopefully forestall further questions for the time being.

With no need to return to Samuel’s to watch Sophie, she spent the rest of the day working through her checklist for Arturo’s gala. She’d had years of experience organizing much larger events than this, but at her previous company, she’d had access to whatever staff and equipment the occasion required. She had none of that here, though, and for a guest list the size of Arturo’s, Holly couldn’t possibly do all the cooking on her own. They’d once again arranged to rent the church kitchen for food prep beginning Thursday and had hired even more local restaurant workers to assist. The rental company would supply tables, chairs, steam tables, beverage stations and serving ware, in addition to the canopy, band stage and dance floor.

With her head about to explode, Joella shut down the computer a few minutes before five o’clock. After downing two ibuprofen caplets, she kicked off her sneakers and stretched out across her bed. Five more days and this party would be behind them. And not long afterward, Lord willing, Samuel would have confirmation that Sophie truly was his daughter.

Please, God, let it be so!

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