The Surprise Holiday Dad by Jacqueline Diamond

Author:Jacqueline Diamond [Jacqueline Diamond]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781460324509
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2013-07-03T07:00:00+00:00

Chapter Ten

On Thursday night everything went well in Labor and Delivery. Babies were born quickly, the influx of laboring moms diminished and although Zack had a wife and two daughters at home, he stayed late to perform a C-section. “We had our holiday dinner last night,” he explained.

Adrienne managed to catch four hours’ sleep. Meanwhile, according to the weather report, the rain had not only passed out to sea but been replaced by a mild Santa Ana condition. That meant drying winds and warm temperatures, perfect for the wedding.

When Reggie announced that he’d put Wade’s belongings in Vicki’s room, Adrienne had nearly ordered him to move them to her old bedroom, which she’d vacated for the master suite. However, she was even less comfortable with the notion of the virile male sleeping in her bed than in her sister’s.

In the morning, Wade more than earned his keep. He helped arrange chairs and tables and set up the rented sound system. He tied yellow and red balloons to the front porch and posted neatly printed signs directing guests into the yard through an inconspicuous side gate.

Instead of growing impatient with having Reggie underfoot, Wade seized every opportunity to teach—how to hold a hammer and how to lift rather than drag the chairs. The boy complied willingly.

Adrienne retreated to the kitchen, where she found Peter’s mother, Kerry, a retired teacher, setting out plastic champagne glasses. “I’ll handle the food when the caterer arrives,” Kerry said. “I’m sure you and our new daughter-in-law have plenty of other things to do.”

“I appreciate that.”

“I prefer keeping busy.” The older woman brushed at her misty eyes. “Now shoo!”

With Stacy and Cole weaving chrysanthemums through the wedding arch and Harper’s brother, Jake, handling other tasks, Adrienne took a deep breath. Slow down. Everything’s under control.

She and Harper shepherded Mia upstairs to dress. The little girl twirled about in the master bedroom, her green-and-gold dress bringing out the green of her eyes. “After today Peter’s my daddy for real!” she cried. “Isn’t he, Mommy?”

“Yes, he is.” Tall and elegant in her scarf-hemmed cocktail dress, its colors coordinated with her daughter’s, Harper met Adrienne’s gaze over Mia’s head. “I’m glad the surrogate isn’t due to deliver the twins until June. Mia needs this time with her new father and me.”

“Can I go downstairs now?” her daughter begged.

Harper applied a brush to an errant tuft of the girl’s hair. “Now you’re ready. Help Grandma Kerry, okay? No playing in the yard.”

“Okay, Mommy.” Off she scampered.

“I’m so happy you’ve found love again.” Adrienne slipped on her own dress, which had a subtle autumn-leaf design.

“Thanks.” Harper took a seat at the vanity. “I just can’t help thinking about the people who aren’t here. Especially Vicki.”

“My sister would be thrilled for you,” Adrienne said. “But I miss her, too.”

“And my parents.” Harper adjusted a gauzy hat atop her smooth honey-colored hair.

“I’m sure they’re here in spirit.” Adrienne came over to place the hat at a more flattering angle.

“Perfect!” Harper grinned. “Now,

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