Can new love spring from old pain?

Hope lives in Mississippi Hearts

To keep her new inheritance, single mom Annie Shepherd must uphold an old court ruling imposed on Jake Langford, who’s still paying for the tragic accident from his youth. But as Annie and her twin boys get to know the grade school teacher, she discovers a kind, generous man beneath the past mistakes. Can Annie and Jake create a family through forgiveness?

LORRAINE BEATTY was raised in Columbus, Ohio, but now calls Mississippi home. She and her husband, Joe, have two sons and five grandchildren. Lorraine started writing in junior high and is a member of RWA and ACFW, and is a charter member and past president of Magnolia State Romance Writers. In her spare time she likes to work in her garden, travel and spend time with her family.

Also By Lorraine Beatty

Mississippi Hearts

Her Fresh Start Family

Their Family Legacy

Home to Dover

Protecting the Widow’s Heart

His Small-Town Family

Bachelor to the Rescue

Her Christmas Hero

The Nanny’s Secret Child

A Mom for Christmas

The Lawman’s Secret Son

Her Handyman Hero

Discover more at millsandboon.co.uk

Their Family Legacy

Lorraine Beatty

www.millsandboon.co.uk

ISBN: 978-1-474-08623-3

THEIR FAMILY LEGACY

© 2018 Lorraine Beatty

Published in Great Britain 2018

by Mills & Boon, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF

All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form. This edition is published by arrangement with Harlequin Books S.A.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, locations and incidents are purely fictional and bear no relationship to any real life individuals, living or dead, or to any actual places, business establishments, locations, events or incidents. Any resemblance is entirely coincidental.

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www.millsandboon.co.uk

“Jake the handyman to the rescue.”

He smiled and came toward Annie, causing a blip in her pulse. “What do you need repaired?”

His smile lit up his eyes and added another layer of attractiveness. He looked good in cargo shorts and a T-shirt that emphasized the breadth of his chest. She glanced away.

“It’s the twins. They want to build a doghouse for Sam.”

“An admirable goal.”

“Yes, but they have no idea how to go about it. I hope you don’t mind me calling you.”

“I don’t mind. I’ve been wanting you to ask for my help for a long time.” He grinned again and headed out to the yard. “Hey, fellas, what are you working on?”

What had he meant by that? Why did he want to help her? Annie watched as he spoke to the boys. The scene warmed her heart. She longed for a strong father figure to teach and guide her sons.

She couldn’t help but wonder how it would be if Jake were their father.

But that could never happen.

Dear Reader,

I hope you enjoyed meeting Annie, another member of the Widow’s Walk group. Telling Annie and Jake’s story was one of the most difficult books I’ve ever written. It was also one of the most satisfying. Both of them are dealing with very real fears and painful pasts that keep colliding and complicating their relationship. Despite that, their attraction and respect for one another grows. But how do you forgive someone for a deadly mistake? How do you learn to trust someone who suffers from an addiction that will never be completely cured?

Annie discovers that the strings attached to her inheritance come at too great a cost. Jake realizes that he must stand up and fight for what he wants. Before they can find their happily-ever-after, they both must learn to forgive and allow each other a second chance to get things right.

I’m a big believer in second chances. A mistake, a failure or a bad decision can happen to any of us, anytime. Our job is to learn from it and move forward—not sit down and wallow in the pain. The only answer is forgiveness—of others and of ourselves. It’s the only path to love and peace.

I love to hear from readers, so feel free to contact me at my website, lorrainebeatty.com, or like my author page on Facebook, Lorraine Beatty Author, or follow me @LorraineBeatty on Twitter.

Lorraine

Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.

—Proverbs 3:27

To my grandchildren—Casie, Chey, Drew, Anna and Addie. Love the Lord, follow your dreams and never forget we love you.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

About the Author

Booklist

Title Page

Copyright

Introduction

Dear Reader

Bible Verse

Dedication

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Epilogue

Extract

About the Publisher

Chapter One

He’d be here today.

A nervous knot formed in Annelle Shepard’s chest. In just a couple of hours she’d have to confront the man who killed her cousin and best friend fifteen years ago, Jacob Langford. She had no desire to meet him face-to-face. Ever. But if she wanted to keep her aunt’s estate, this beautiful old home and the financial bequest that would give her room to breathe after years of living pillar to post, then she had to fulfill the terms of the will. Every year on the anniversary of her cousin’s death she had to accept a dollar from Langford until either of them died.

The whole concept left a bad taste in her mouth. No amount of penance could bring back her cousin. Her aunt’s persistence in making this man pay for his crime bordered on insanity and she resented being forced into participating.

But the bottom line was she needed a home for her boys. One that no one could gamble away, or foreclose for failure to pay the mortgage. Aunt Margaret’s house provided a safe and permanent place to raise her ten-year-old twin boys, Tyler and Ryan. Here they could put down roots and live a quiet, normal life without the constant tension and chaos of a drunken husband and father.

A knock sounded on her front door and she inhaled sharply, glancing at the clock. It was too soon for the man to be here. He’d agreed to come by sometime early in the afternoon. This was probably her neighbor Denise coming to get her boys. She’d offered to take them to the splash park for the afternoon so Annie could deal with the official meeting without interruption.

Denise Sanderson was an added blessing in her move back to Hastings. She lived next door, and Annie’s twins and Denise’s three children—Steve, Johnny and Tina—were close in age and played well together. Denise had been a huge help in recommending doctors, a good church and putting her in touch with a widow’s support group that Denise said had helped her sister move forward with her life. It had been two years since Annie’s husband Rick’s death and she still struggled with certain aspects of widowhood.

She opened the door with a smile.

“Are they ready?” Denise stepped into the hall just as the boys raced down the stairs.

“Bye, Mom.” Two voices spoke as one.

“Hold up there, fellas. You behave for Miss Denise. Do you hear me? And watch out for each other.”

“We will.” They answered in unison.

Denise ushered the boys out onto the porch. “Are you sure you’re going to be okay for this meeting?”

Annie appreciated her friend’s concern. She’d been battling life on her own for so long, it was nice to have someone who cared. “Absolutely. Thanks for watching them for me.”

Denise chuckled. “I’ll get you back—don’t worry.”

Annie waved goodbye as the boys climbed into Denise’s car, and then she went back inside and glanced at the clock. She rubbed her upper arms as she paced the outdated kitchen in the old house, a nervous knot bouncing around in her chest. Maybe she should have demanded a specific time for the meeting. The waiting was unbearable.

Her gaze landed on the clock again. Once she got past this obligatory meeting she could put it behind her for a year and get on with her life. Denise had expressed concern for her safety meeting a stranger. She couldn’t deny a certain amount of apprehension. Annie had a mental image of Langford in her mind of a bad-boy foster kid, driving drunk, raising cane. He’d be a big man, built like a wrestler, with tattoos covering his arms and neck and maybe even his face. He’d have black eyes beneath a protruding brow and a hard, unforgiving mouth held in a permanent sneer.

Would she be safe? A resolve born from years of standing up to a drunken husband infused her with courage. How hard could this meeting be? If he failed to show up then he’d be sent to jail. If he did, then he was here to meet his obligation and he would leave. Then she could get back to making this place a real home. The old 1920s brick foursquare house might be old and cluttered and in need of love, but it was hers and she could make it the home she’d always dreamed about. This would be her forever home and the place her boys would come back to with their families someday.

A loud knock on the door froze her in her tracks, forcing her to question her resolve. She closed her eyes and prayed for courage. She’d do whatever was necessary to make a safe home for her boys. Even meeting a murderer face-to-face and accepting his one-dollar penance.

* * *

Jake knocked firmly on the front door of Mrs. Owen’s house, his insides twisted into a knot. He’d hoped to never have to perform this distasteful ritual again. But here he was. His fingers closed around the dollar bill in his pocket. Lord, give me peace and strength to face this woman. Fifteen times he’d made this pilgrimage. How many more would there be before he was set free?

When Mrs. Owens had died, he’d expected his sentence would end. But then he’d been notified that the heir to her estate would be continuing his yearly obligation. Apparently Mrs. Owens wanted him to pay for the rest of his life. No doubt the woman would be a younger version of her aunt, a tight-lipped, scowling woman with cold, accusing eyes. The best he could hope for was that the niece would spare him the excessive humiliation her aunt enjoyed dispensing.

Jake rubbed the bridge of his nose. He’d been behind the wheel when the accident that killed his friend Bobby Lee Owens had occurred. They’d both been drinking when they started home from a party before losing control and hitting a tree.

Bobby Lee’s parents weren’t satisfied with Jake going to jail for a year for involuntary manslaughter. They wanted him to pay a bigger price. As mayor of Hastings and close friends with the local judge, Mr. Owens was able to concoct an unusual sentence. Once a year, on the day of Bobby Lee’s death, Jake would come to the Owens home and pay them a dollar. They wanted to make sure that he never forgot what he’d done.

At the time he’d agreed to the arrangement. It seemed a better choice than going to jail. Besides, he was the foster kid on the block. Bobby Lee was the town’s golden boy. What choice did he have?

The thing was, he didn’t need a court order to remember the date or what had happened. Being forced to confront the Owens each year only poured salt in his unhealed wounds.

The wide mahogany door swung open. He caught his breath. The woman standing there was no pinched-faced spinster with hate-filled eyes. Quite the opposite. She was blonde with wide blue eyes the color of chicory flowers, and hair the golden shade of early wheat. He guessed her age to be close to his own. There was a sweet freshness about her that brought a smile to his lips, which he quickly stopped. He was here to serve his sentence, not to charm a pretty lady.

He braced himself for the confrontation to come. She smiled, bringing a light into her blue eyes that captivated him. There was something lovely and appealing about her girl-next-door looks. She stood about five foot four, with a determined posture that said she was used to taking care of herself.

“Can I help you?”

The question threw him until he remembered she probably had no idea who he was. “I’m Jake Langford.”

The friendly smile quickly turned to a look of stunned shock. Her gaze made a quick survey of his frame and a frown creased her forehead. The light in her eyes darkened.

“Oh. Yes. I’ve been expecting you. I’m Annelle Shepard. Margaret Owens was my aunt.”

Her voice was rich and musical. He cleared his throat. “Yes, so I was told.” He stood stock still, waiting for her to make the next move. This was usually the point at which Mrs. Owens would hold out her hand for his payment, a sneer on her lips and fire in her eyes as she slowly took the bill from his hand. Then the diatribe would begin.

The niece took a deep breath and crossed her arms over her chest in the same manner as her aunt. Here it comes. He dreaded hearing angry words from this lovely woman. Her sunny looks suggested that she didn’t know the first thing about hate or revenge. But then he wasn’t a real good judge of character. He met her gaze and saw the blue eyes held puzzlement. She wasn’t what he’d expected. Maybe the same was true on her end.

She broke eye contact. “I think you have something for me?”

He drew the bill from his pocket, smoothed it out between his fingers and handed it to her. She stared at the money as if it was poison. He could read reluctance and perhaps distaste in her posture. Was it possible that she wasn’t as committed to punishing him forever as her aunt had been?

She took the dollar with one quick movement. “Thank you. I’ll inform the attorney that you’ve met your obligation.”

Jake nodded, unable to believe his ears. “There’s nothing else?”

“Such as?”

He debated whether to explain or simply turn and leave. No need to stir the pot, but he found himself rooted to the porch by a growing curiosity about the lovely niece. “Your aunt usually liked to expound on what happened that day.”

A faint rosy tinge stained her cheeks. “I’m sure she did. You did take the life of her only son and my best friend.”

He searched his memory for one of this pretty woman as a girl. “I don’t remember you.”

“We moved away when I was fourteen. I never saw Bobby Lee again. You’re responsible for that.”

Her words pierced like a knife. There was nothing he could say. “If that’s all, I need to be going.”

Mrs. Shepherd’s blue eyes searched his face. “Yes. We’re done. Until next year.”

Jake spoke before he could censor his words. “And the year after that, and the year after that.”

The pulse at the base of her neck throbbed rapidly. “I didn’t make this arrangement, Mr. Langford.”

“But you’re choosing to continue it.”

She squared her shoulders and lifted her chin. “I have my reasons.”

“I’m sure you do. Goodbye.” He pivoted and took the steps slowly, replaying the encounter in his mind, examining every moment. Today’s exchange was totally different from years past. Mrs. Owens had taken great pleasure in reminding him of all the joys of life her son would never know. College, marriage, children and whatever else she had dreamed up in her warped mind. The woman had been bitter and vindictive.

Annelle Shepherd on the other hand appeared to be the opposite. He hadn’t sensed any anger in her tone or attitude, only resolve. At the sidewalk he turned and glanced back at the house. Mrs. Shepherd was still standing in the door, studying him. She darted back inside quickly and shut the door.

For the first time in fifteen years, Jake wished he had to pay another dollar tomorrow. He definitely wanted to know more about his new warden.

* * *

Annie shut the door, blocking her view of the departing Jake Langford. She closed her eyes, taking a few deep breaths to try and calm her racing heart. Her anxiety over her first encounter with the man had been replaced by surprise and confusion.

He was nothing like she’d expected, and she was unsure how to deal with the discovery. In her mind she’d always seen him as hard and unfeeling, with no respect for anyone. But the man who’d come to her door dressed in neatly pressed khaki pants and a pale green polo shirt resembled more of a successful business man than a hardened criminal.

He’d stood a good six feet, maybe more, with broad shoulders, a lean physique and warm, intelligent brown eyes. His dark walnut-toned hair was thick and perfectly styled. The intriguing angle of his features cast interesting shadows on his high cheekbones and generous mouth. The deep creases at the corners of his mouth peeked out when he spoke and softened the sharp line of his jaw.

Annie stared at the dollar in her hand. What was she supposed to do with it? Save it? Spend it? First she had to report it. Reaching for her phone she opened her contacts list. Her aunt’s attorney, Dalton Hall, took her call immediately. “How did it go?”

“Fine. He handed me the money and left.”

“Really? He didn’t give you any trouble?”

Mr. Hall’s tone revealed his surprise. “No. He was polite and respectful.”

“He wasn’t upset that the sentence is continuing?”

Clearly this year’s meeting had not developed the same way in the past. “I think he probably was, but he didn’t say anything. In fact, I had the impression that he regretted what happened.” That was a surprise.

“Interesting. Your aunt usually reported extensive verbal confrontations.”

She found it hard to imagine the polite, soft-spoken man at her door becoming belligerent. “He didn’t do anything like that.” A wave of sympathy coursed through her. It seemed cruel to force a man to relive the worst day of his life year after year. But she didn’t know how she would react if she were in the same position and had lost her son to a drunk driver. “It seems odd to me that she’d insist on maintaining this arrangement.”

“Your aunt was a very unhappy woman, Mrs. Shepherd. I tried repeatedly to persuade her to let go of this arrangement, but she was adamant.”

“I guess I can’t blame her. Langford’s actions cost them their only child. Her grief must have been overwhelming.”

“I suppose so. Thank you for reporting.”

After promising to contact him if she needed anything, she ended the call and slipped the phone in her shorts pocket, breathing a deep sigh of relief. All in all, the whole encounter had gone quickly and with no conflict at all. If these yearly visits were as easy as today, then she could stop worrying about it. Though she was puzzled by the contradiction in what she’d been told and what had occurred just now. Her Aunt Margaret had always complained to Annie’s mother about how difficult the yearly meetings were, how the man showed no remorse or concern for the pain he had caused her family.

The whole arrangement with Langford made her uncomfortable. It seemed excessive, harsh and not at all like the sweet, fun-loving aunt she remembered from childhood. Since meeting him face-to-face, she found it hard to believe that he was so cold and hard-hearted that he didn’t regret what happened. Prolonging his sentence served no purpose.

What kind of burden did the irrational sentence impose on him? Was he able to push it to the back of his mind for three hundred and sixty-four days or did it nag at him like a pebble in his shoe, never far from his thoughts? Annie shoved the encounter to the back of her mind. Accepting his money was a small price to pay for inheriting a home for her boys and financial security.

She folded the dollar bill in half and placed it in the desk drawer in the living room and turned her attention to her next task, getting her new home in order. The house had been closed up like a tomb for years and her aunt had buried herself inside with her possessions, which explained why the rooms had smelled musty when they’d first walked in. Even leaving the windows open for a few days hadn’t chased the smell away completely.

In the two weeks they’d been here, she only managed to clean out the bedrooms and the family room. Her next objective was to remove the excess furniture and then tackle the kitchen, which was overstuffed with enough food for a decade. She had big plans for this house. With a little paint, some updating and a lot of hard work it could be something special.

As she made her way to the stairs, her gaze drifted to the front door. For some reason she couldn’t get Jake Langford out of her mind. She had a feeling it would have been a lot easier to dismiss the meeting if he was more like the image in her mind, and not the attractive man he was.

She hated that she even noticed his good looks. There had been an aura of strength and control about him. His eyes were intelligent and thoughtful. If she’d met him under different circumstances she would have called him warm and friendly.

But the circumstances weren’t different. Besides, men had no place in her life. Ever again. Her only goal was to provide for her boys. Her new teaching position at Jefferson Elementary started soon and her first faculty meeting was this week.

Thankfully she’d be too preoccupied with work to think about Langford. She wouldn’t see him again for a year.

* * *

Jake finished tying his running shoes the next morning before grabbing his vibrating cell phone. His good friend Harley Evan’s name was displayed. “Hey. Make it quick. I’m going on a run.”

“Did you know that Coach Baker at Hillcrest High is retiring after this year?”

Not what he’d expected his friend to say. “No kidding. Is Dave Morrow taking over?”

“No. That’s why I’m calling. The athletic director is looking for someone younger to fill the spot. You need to put your application in before anyone else does.”

It was an opportunity he’d been hoping for. Moving back to Hastings had been a blessing, but it had dealt a blow to his long-term career goal of coaching at the college level. “Thanks for letting me know. I’ll check it out. I have to admit I miss real coaching. The junior high kids at Jefferson are great, but I can’t say it’s as rewarding as coaching real athletes.”

“I hear you, buddy. Don’t put this off. I think you have a real shot at this.”

“I won’t.”

“Good. So. How did it go yesterday?”

Jake rubbed his forehead. He didn’t really want to go over that again, but Harley deserved an answer. He’d been through all of this with him. “Better than I expected.”

“That’s good. What’s she like? A younger version of her aunt?”

“No, she’s a complete opposite. She’s pretty and very nice.” There was slight pause before his friend responded.

“So no angry rants or accusations?”

“None. She took the dollar and I left.”

“Interesting. So you’re okay?”

“Of course.” A bit confused but relieved he hadn’t had to withstand a barrage of hateful speech.

“Then I’ll see you later. Don’t forget about that application.”

Harley’s news churned in Jake’s mind, gaining speed as he went through his warmup routine. He needed to get on top of this. He’d go see the athletic director soon and pick up the application in person, show them that he was serious and demonstrate his interest.

The August weather was intolerable today. High heat and high humidity, but a great day to run. Running always cleared his head and put everything into perspective. After his encounter with Mrs. Shepherd yesterday, he’d spent a restless night, and he needed to sort things out.

Jake finished his five miles around the neighborhood in record time. He slowed his pace as he turned onto Birch Street, heading home. He saw Mrs. Shepherd coming down her front walkway as he approached her house. Avoiding her was his best option. She wouldn’t be glad to see him, but there was no time to stop and turn around or cross over to the other side without calling attention to himself and appearing rude.

He slowed to a walk, waiting for her to look up. When she did, her blue eyes widened in surprise and then darkened with the speed of a pop-up summer storm.

“What are you doing here?”

He wondered if all her emotions were so easily displayed. “Running. I run every day.”

“Why here?” She set her jaw and planted her hands on her hips. “Are you stalking me?”

He didn’t dignify that with a response. He’d expected her to think the worst of him. Everyone always did. “I live here.” He pointed to his Victorian home across the street. “Right there.”

The look of horror on her face stung. He’d never considered how she might feel about having the man responsible for her cousin’s death so close. Her aunt had been a hermit. He’d lived in the neighborhood for months before she’d realized he was there. He’d only seen her once after that when he’d paid his penance. Not long after, she’d moved to a nursing home and passed a short time later.

“No. You can’t live here.” She took her hair in her hands and pulled it behind her ears. “Why would you come back to Hastings after what you did? Why would you move into a house so close to my aunt?”

He squared his shoulders. He should have anticipated this. He took a second to get control. “I moved back because I got a job here, and I live in that house because it’s the only home I’ve ever known.”

Her eyes widened again but this time from surprise. Like many people, she hadn’t expected him to have feelings or a sentimental streak. After all, he was only a foster kid. He didn’t count. A shaft of cold shot through his chest. Some things never changed. The stigma of being a foster child would stain him forever.

“Have a good day.” He nodded and then turned and jogged across the street.

If nothing else, the incident had dampened his curiosity about Mrs. Owens’s lovely niece. As far as she was concerned, he was a pariah. He’d secretly hoped Mrs. Shepherd would be more understanding than her aunt. Apparently not. So be it.

He had an application to fill out and maybe a campaign to launch. He’d show the powers that be that he was the perfect one to fill the coaching job. In the meantime he’d be wise to mind his own business. As for Annelle Shepherd, he’d have to put her out of his mind until next year. Just because she lived across the street didn’t mean they had to interact. He’d stick to his side of the street and she to hers. Life would go on as usual.

As his friend liked to point out, he could only control his own reactions, not those of others. No matter how much he wanted to. Just like he could never escape the fact he was a murderer. Not until he met his maker.

Chapter Two

Discovering that Jake Langford lived across the street gnawed at Annie’s mind the rest of the morning. The stately Victorian house with its wide front lawn seemed an odd choice of residence for a rugged, athletic man like him. It was easier to imagine him in a contemporary ranch or a sturdy craftsman.

His words replayed in her mind. The only home I’ve ever known.

A swell of empathy and understanding rose inside. She knew that feeling all too well. As a foster kid, Langford must have lived with many different families in many different kinds of homes. At least all her moves had been with her mother. She’d never been alone. And she understood all too well the importance of having a real home.

She pivoted and hurried inside. None of that mattered. What was important was that Jake Langford lived in her neighborhood. Across the street, where she’d have to look at his house when she sat on the porch or drove down the street. He was a constant reminder of how her cousin had died. It was one thing to face the man once a year, but to encounter him on a daily basis was too much. How was she going to deal with this?

A throbbing pain formed at the base of her skull. She didn’t have time for a headache. The house needed at least a week more of purging all the old furniture and junk her aunt had accumulated, and her first faculty meeting was scheduled for tomorrow. She’d wanted the house in livable condition before school started since there’d be little time for DIY projects after that, but doing it alone was taking longer than she’d expected.

There was only one way to deal with Jake Langford. Ignore him. Keep her distance. It shouldn’t be too hard. She’d be working all day and too busy in the evening to notice him. But that didn’t mean she’d stop thinking about him. Her only option was to concentrate on her own life and let Jake do his own thing.

Her gaze traveled around the kitchen, from the oak cabinets, vinyl floors and outdated almond appliances. Besides, Jake wasn’t her problem. This house was. And it was time to get back to work.

“Boys.” She hurried up the stairs. “Let’s get started on Ryan’s room.”

Ryan popped his head out from the back bedroom he was sharing with his brother. “Really? Cool. I’m ready for my own space.”

Tyler came from the room more slowly. “I’ll get the trash bags.”

“Thank you, sweetie. Bring the whole box. Most of the stuff in this room will go to the trash or to charity.” She stopped her youngest with her hand as he walked by. “Are you both happy about the room arrangements?”

Ryan nodded with a big grin. “I am ’cause I got the biggest room since I’m the oldest.”

Tyler made a face. “Only by four minutes. I like my room ’cause I can see the whole backyard. I can see the moon at night from my bed.”

“Good. Then let’s get the old junk cleared out of this other room so Ryan can move in.”

They worked into the afternoon, cleaning out Bobby Lee’s old room for Ryan. She’d been stunned to find her cousin’s room untouched since the day he had died. She’d known that her aunt and uncle had taken their son’s death hard, but she’d never dreamed they’d turn his room into a shrine.

The boys had run out of interest and gone back outside. It was nice to be able to let them play without constantly watching over them. Tyler and Ryan had hardly been in the house since they moved in. The large backyard with great climbing trees, wide grassy lawn and old shed had provided endless hours of entertainment and exploration. Their life up until now had been confined to small apartments and concrete playgrounds in not-so-safe neighborhoods, where she’d had to be with them all the time. This neighborhood was right out of a Norman Rockwell painting. Stately old homes with welcoming front porches lining the street and full-grown trees adding a sense of permanence and peace. It did her heart good to see them so carefree and happy.

Annie tied up the trash bag and then stood and surveyed the room. All evidence of her cousin had been removed, leaving a strange kind of sadness behind. She’d loved him, but from now on this room would belong to her son Ryan. A warm bubble of pleasure rose inside her chest. Finally she was able to give her sons their own rooms and the security they deserved.

Her next objective was to clean and paint the room and pull up the stinky old carpet. Not sure how she’d do that yet. But it had to go.

Pounding footsteps on the stairs alerted her to the approach of her boys. “What’s the matter?”

Ryan spoke up. “There’s a bunch of kids playing football across the street. They want us to play. Can we? Please?”

She found these requests difficult since her initial response was to say no. She’d spent most of the twins’ lives keeping them away from danger and away from other rougher kids. But this was a new neighborhood with kids to play with and safe streets to walk on. Ryan vibrated with excitement. Tyler stood perfectly still, only his dark eyes revealing his desire to join in. “All right. Go ahead but watch out for each other and be careful.”

Ryan rolled his eyes. “It’s football, Mom. You aren’t supposed to be careful. You’re supposed to be tough.”

There were times when she wished the Lord had given her girls. She felt so inadequate to raise two rough-and-tumble boys. There was so much she didn’t understand about them and so many things they were missing by not having a dad to teach them. Lately, she’d been praying for a male influence in their lives. Someone in this new neighborhood or at their new church who would stand in the gap left by their dad.

They needed someone to look up to and admire.

That would be the final touch to the perfect future she was going to create here in Hastings.

* * *

Jake drew back his arm and let the pigskin fly, watching as the half dozen neighborhood kids ran across the grass to try to catch it. He loved playing sports with these kids. It’s one of the reasons he’d wanted to be a coach. Two people in his life had set him on a path to becoming a productive member of society: his sixth-grade teacher, who’d seen ability and determination in him and encouraged him to pursue sports, and Mrs. Elliot, the foster mother he’d landed with the summer before his senior year in high school. She’d taught him about manners and responsibility, and brought him to the Lord. He’d backslid for a couple of years after the accident, but he’d eventually found his way again.

He’d started this game with the kids partly because he enjoyed it and partly because he hoped the physical activity would ease the tension from his encounter with Mrs. Shepherd this morning.

Joey Mitchell caught the ball and started to run. David Clements grabbed him and knocked him to the ground.

“David. No tackling, remember? Your parents would not be happy if anyone got hurt.”

“Hey, coach.” Steve and Johnny Sanderson ran across the lawn, stopping in front of him. “I got the two new kids to come. They’re twins.”

Jake stared at the boys. The Shepherd twins. He’d seen them coming and going from the Owens house. He had a sick feeling that this wouldn’t be a good arrangement. But he couldn’t turn them away. “Hey, fellas.” Maybe avoiding the niece wasn’t going to be as simple as he’d expected.

Steve’s brother Johnny spoke up. “This one’s Ryan and that’s Tyler. Most people can’t tell them apart, but I figured it out right away.”

“Welcome to the game. Glad you could join us.”

“What are the rules?”

Tyler met his gaze as he waited for the answer. His twin had already dashed off to join the others. “No tackling. Fair play and no calling names.” The boy considered that a moment and then nodded.

“Okay.”

Jake picked up the ball and strode across the lawn. He glanced at the Shepherd house but saw no sign of their mother. Did she know they were here? How did she feel about her boys playing ball with the enemy?

He felt sorry for the twins because once she found out he was involved, they’d probably be forbidden to come again. It was out of his hands, but he hoped she wouldn’t deny her boys some fun because of something that happened years ago. Harley was the only one who knew the whole truth about the accident and he’d take that to his grave.

“Okay, kids, we have enough now to make two teams. Let’s divide up.” He tossed the ball into the eager hands of the team.

Maybe, God willing, someday the truth would come out, and then he’d be able to forgive himself at last.

Until then, he’d stick with his plan and mind his own business. He had enough to keep him busy with teaching, coaching and working with the youth at church in hopes of keeping them from making the same dumb mistakes he had.

* * *

Annie straightened the collar of her blouse and inhaled a deep breath the next morning. Today was her first faculty meeting at her new school. She’d be teaching fifth grade and she’d made arrangements for the twins to attend the same school instead of the neighborhood school to which they’d normally be assigned. As a single mom, having the boys in the same building would simplify her life tremendously by cutting down on commute time and after-school care.

Downstairs she picked up her purse and keys, and then pulled the front door behind her as she left. The twins were staying with Denise today so she could concentrate on her meeting. Butterflies took flight in her stomach. Her career as a teacher had kept food on the table and a roof over their heads after her husband Rick had died, but starting a new job was always nerve-racking.

As she stepped onto the front porch she caught sight of Jake’s car backing out of his drive. She wondered where he was going so early and then quickly shut down that line of thought. Her mind had developed a nasty habit of presenting images of Jake Langford, accompanied with a growing list of questions. How long had he been in foster care? What happened to his parents? Why was he single? What had he been doing since the accident? What did he do for a living? There was no denying he was an attractive man. With his dark coloring and his athletically toned physique, he was the kind of man who turned women’s heads.

Annie slid behind the wheel of her car and started the engine. Thankfully, now that school was starting next week, she’d have too much on her mind to entertain thoughts of Jake. There’d be homework and chores in the evenings and earlier bedtimes. Weekends would be spent working on the house and maybe, now that she had a little extra money, she could take the twins to the zoo or to the beach. All the things they’d been unable to enjoy before.

Her spirits lifted as she drove across Hastings to Jefferson Elementary. Her gaze scanned the facility as she parked her car in a faculty slot. An old two-story brick building anchored the school, with two awkwardly placed additions jutting out behind. Despite the haphazard design, the structure had a certain charm about it.

Annie made her way to the principal’s office, her spirits rising. She was starting another new phase of her life today. It felt good. Principal Winters was a robust black man with a bright smile and a deep voice that rumbled when he spoke. He greeted her with a warm handshake, and then she sat down to go over last-minutes details.

“You’ll be in room 20C. That’s the last room at the end of the long corridor, where the fifth and sixth graders are located. You should have time to take a quick peek before the meeting starts. We’ll all meet in the library, which is right next door. I’d like to take you around myself but I’ve got some urgent things to do before the meeting.”

“I can wander around on my own.”

“But I don’t want you to get lost. It seems like a simple layout but it has some twists and turns that can be confusing.”

He looked up and smiled, waving to someone outside the room. “Come in here. I want you to meet someone.”

Annie glanced over her shoulder and froze. Jake Langford strode into the office. What was he doing here?

Principal Winters shook hands with Jake and then turned to her. “Annie, I’d like you to meet Coach Langford. Jake, this is our newest faculty member, Annie Shepherd. She’ll be teaching fifth grade in your part of the school.”

Stunned, she could only offer a slight nod. It was clear from the tight expression on his face that Langford was none too pleased to see her here either.

“Jake, why don’t you give Mrs. Shepherd a tour, then show her to her room while I get ready for the meeting? In fact, why don’t you be her partner for the year? Show her the ropes. Mrs. Shepherd, we’re glad you’re with us. I hope you’ll be happy here.”

She muttered an appropriate response and then followed him out into the hall. “Why didn’t you tell me you were a coach here?”

“Why would I? I didn’t know you’d be teaching here.” He started down the hall, forcing her to catch up. “The cafeteria is down that way. The gym is at the end of the south corridor over there.”

She grabbed his arm, forcing him to stop. “What are we going to do about this?”

“Nothing.”

He stopped and opened a door to one of the classrooms. “This is your room. I’m right across the hall in 18C. If you need anything just ask. Mary Gayton is in room 19C. She’ll be glad to help too.”

Annie stepped inside her new classroom. It was large with lots of windows overlooking the playing field. The desks were old-style but still serviceable. Her desk was large and positioned at the front with file cabinets nearby. And on two walls, large blackboards took up most of the space. It was going to be nice working here. With the exception of Langford.

“I’ll see you at the meeting.”

He started to leave but she hurried forward. She hadn’t been paying attention to where they were going. She’d been too distracted by the shock of finding him here. “Wait. Mr. Langford, I don’t think I can find my way back.”

He held her gaze. “Jake.”

She swallowed past the sudden lump in her throat. “Annie.” He closed the door to her room and started walking.

She tried to pay attention to the turns he made on the way, but lost track after the third one. His silence was wearing on her nerves. “You don’t have a problem working together?” The look he gave her left her puzzled. She couldn’t tell if he was incredulous, irritated or just plain angry.

“Do you?”

Oh, she most definitely did. It was a matter of common sense. Mingling with the man who’d killed her cousin, the man who was still serving a sentence—albeit perhaps an unfairly extended one—was awkward to say the least. Not to mention she was already more curious about him than she should be. Now she’d be exposed to him around the clock. The whole thing was too unsettling for her liking.

“Hey, Jake.”

A very attractive African American woman hurried toward them as they neared the library, throwing her arms around Jake’s neck and giving him a big hug.

“Hey, Sharee. Good to see you. Annie, this is Sharee DeMarco, our school counselor. Sharee, this is our new fifth-grade teacher, Annelle Shepherd.”

The woman quickly transferred the hug to her, wrapping her in warmth and a scent of spearmint. “Welcome to Jefferson. I’m so glad to meet you. It’s always so nice to have new faces around.” She turned back to Jake. “How was Belize?”

“Hot but rewarding.”

“Amen to that. You two had better scoot. The meeting starts in a few minutes.” She winked, waved and sauntered down the hall, toward the office.

Annie frowned as she looked at Jake. “Belize?”

“A mission trip. I just got back a few days ago.”

She followed Jake into the library, struggling to process the discovery that he’d gone on a mission trip. The more she learned about him, the less it added up. He introduced her to the fourth-grade teacher, Linda Bain, and then walked off to join the other male teachers. Despite his words that working together wasn’t a problem, she suspected he didn’t like it any more than she did.

She turned her attention to Linda, who welcomed her warmly, introducing her to a couple of other faculty members before they took their seats.

“So, you know Jake already?”

Annie searched for an appropriate response. “We’ve met.”

“He’s a great guy. And a great sixth-grade teacher. He coaches junior high football and baseball too.”

Her heart sank into her stomach. Jake was the sixth-grade teacher? The twins were in the sixth grade. That meant they’d have Jake as their teacher. This whole situation was getting more and more complicated. She didn’t think she wanted her sons being taught by a man with his background. The people here didn’t appear to have any issues, but then they probably didn’t know about the accident. Maybe she should switch the twins back to their normal school. Annie muttered a polite response. “He sounds very dedicated.”

“Totally. There are a few female teachers here who’d like him to dedicate some personal time to them.” She grinned and chuckled. “He is a good-looking rascal, but he’s quiet and mysterious. It’s like he has some deep dark secret. I can’t help but wonder what it is.”

Annie didn’t have to speculate. She knew his secret.

Thankfully the meeting started and she put her full attention on the principal and the information she would need to do her job. With so much to go over, she was able to keep thoughts of Jake in the recesses of her mind. She caught sight of him briefly during the lunch break, and he appeared to be avoiding her the way she was avoiding him. If that were the case, then working at the same school might actually be tolerable.

It was mid-afternoon when Principal Winters concluded the business portion of the meeting. “The last thing on the agenda is our fall carnival. Y’all know what a significant event this is for the school and the community, so I know you’ll make it a success. Sharee has agreed to serve as the carnival chairman and she’s assigned everyone to a team.”

He stepped aside and Sharee took over. She spoke of the importance of the event in providing necessary equipment to the school, and reminded them that there was a lot to do before the end of October, when the event would be held. “Be sure and pick up your committee packets in my office.” She began calling out names and their committee assignments. “Jake and Annie, you’re the publicity and advertising team.”

Laughter rippled through the room. Someone spoke up. “Oh, no. Jake, buddy, what did you do to deserve that?”

Annie didn’t hear anything after that. Principal Winters dismissed them and Annie found herself unable to move from her chair. Why was this happening? She had expected to face Jake once a year, and now he was living across the street, working at the same school and teaching her sons every day. She could avoid him during the school day, but how in the world was she supposed to work with the man on a committee? Simple. She couldn’t. She would remove herself from this situation. Let someone else work with him.

Her ingrained sense of responsibility swelled. She’d never shirked her duties, but sometimes things just couldn’t be helped. She’d be happy to serve on any committee, just not the one with Jake.

She gathered up her belongings, her decision wavering. What would she give as her excuse? That she didn’t want to work with him because he killed her cousin, or because he makes her feel uneasy. Not in a threatening way, but in a way that reminded her she was a woman.

Where had that thought come from? She slammed a lid on that and stood. Why had her sweet, perfect new life turned into a minefield of roadblocks? Great, now she was mixing her metaphors. She’d put an end to this assignment, and then she could reclaim her nice peaceful life with a little less Jake Langford.

She looked up to see Jake standing across from her. Her heart sank.

Or not.

Chapter Three

Jake stole a glance at Annie and she lingered at her table. Apparently there was no way to avoid Annie Shepherd. Truth was he didn’t want to avoid her. Despite his best efforts to put her out of his mind, she kept slipping back in. He wanted to know more about her. His biggest question was why was she continuing his sentence?

Jake had kept an eye on Annie throughout the meeting, but particularly when Sharee announced the committee teams. The look on Annie’s face had said it all. She was not happy about the assignment. It bothered him more than he wanted to admit that she was uncomfortable around him. He wasn’t the monster she probably had imagined him to be. He hated to think what her aunt had said about him. Unfortunately, they were now neighbors and colleagues. For whatever reason, they’d been thrown together, and the only way to deal with that was to get along.

He approached her as she was gathering up her things. “Looks like we’re partners.”

She shook her head. “This isn’t going to work. We can’t be on a committee together when we have this... I mean, since you’re...because of...”

Jake knew what she was trying to say. She couldn’t see past the accident. “If this is too uncomfortable for you, I’ll speak to Sharee and have her put you on another committee.”

Annie touched her temple as if trying to sooth a headache. “No. That would only create questions neither one of us want to answer.” Her eyes held confusion and doubt. “How much work will this committee require? I have two boys to take care of and a house full of clutter that’ll take a year to clear out.”

Jake sympathized, but working on the carnival was something expected of all the teachers and staff. “This carnival is a big deal around here. Everyone pulls their weight. Unfortunately, the publicity committee is one of the most important and takes the most time. There are permits to acquire, flyers and banners to design, and then we’ll have to canvas local businesses for donations and sell ads.”

Annie sighed, her shoulders sagging. “I had no idea.”

“That’s why everyone laughed when we were put on the committee. We drew the short straw.”

She crossed her arms over her chest. “When do we have to start?”

“Right away. We have to have the permits in place sixty days before the event. That means we’re already pushing the clock.”

She pressed her lips together in a tight line. “All right. Where do we have to go?”

Even irritated to the max, she was a very attractive woman. “The courthouse, and it closes at 4:30 p.m. It’s already three.”

She frowned. “Can’t you take care of that and we’ll tackle the other things in a day or so?”

She really didn’t want to spend time with him. “Afraid not. It takes two signatures on the applications.”

“Fine. But I can’t be late getting home.”

“No problem. It won’t take long. I’ll get the list of the necessary permits from Sharee, then we can get started.” Sharee had everything lying on the edge of her desk. He picked it up and joined Annie in the hall. She stared at the thick stack of papers he held.

“Do we need that many permits?”

He shook his head. “No. These are our committee packets. All the things we need to do our job. You ready?”

“Do I have a choice?”

“Yes, Annie, you do. I told you I can get you onto another committee.” He watched her mull over the idea. Would she seize the opportunity to walk away? The defiant lift of her chin was his answer.

“No. It’s fine. I don’t want to be seen as the new teacher who couldn’t be a team player. Besides, I never walk away from my responsibilities.” She turned and walked ahead of him and out of the building.

This was the second time he’d given her an out and she hadn’t taken it. Why?

Jake walked to his SUV, unlocking the door with his key fob as they approached. He opened the driver’s side door, but Annie had stopped a few feet away, her blue eyes wary.

He stared at her, puzzled. “Something wrong?” It hit him then. She was afraid to get in the car with him. He set his jaw. “We can take your car if you’d rather drive.”

A look of chagrin passed over her face. “No. You know your way around town. I don’t.” Reluctantly she climbed into the passenger seat and buckled up.

Settled in behind the wheel, he cranked the engine, suddenly aware of her sweet fragrance permeating the air. He stole a quick glance. Annie sat pressed against the passenger-side door as if ready to jump out at any moment. He set his jaw. Her aunt had painted him with a very black brush. Suddenly it became important to prove her wrong.

“I won’t bite you. I promise.” Her cheeks turned a very pretty shade of pink and she quickly looked away, though she kept stealing quick peeks at him as he drove. “Go ahead.”

“What?”

“I can practically hear the questions rattling around in your head. Go ahead and ask them before you burst.”

She took her time replying. “You’re not what I expected.”

He uttered a small grunt of amusement. “Let me guess. You expected a tattooed, earring-wearing biker dude with a chip on his shoulder.”

She looked away.

“Don’t feel bad. It’s what everyone expects of a foster kid.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to appear so unfeeling,”

The pity in her tone scraped across every nerve. He gripped the wheel a little tighter. “No need.” Jake pulled to a stop in the parking lot of the county courthouse and got out.

Annie joined him, walking stiffly at his side. He pulled open the large wooden door and they stepped from the humid August air into the cool interior. After checking the directory, they took the stairs to the office on the second floor.

Jake requested the permits and took the applications to a nearby table. “How’s your handwriting? Mine isn’t so hot. You should probably fill them out.”

“Okay, but you’ll have to tell me what to put down.”

Jake pulled up a chair as close to hers as he could, leaning toward her so he could give her the information she needed. Too late he realized his mistake. His closeness made him acutely aware of her silky hair brushing her shoulders. Everything about her screamed femininity. Even her handwriting as she wrote was filled with curvy, ladylike strokes. He had a hard time believing she was as vindictive as her aunt. No one who looked like a fresh spring day could have a black heart.

Paperwork complete, Jake returned it to the desk. “Next up, utility permits.”

“Where’s that?”

“Down the hall.” Annie stepped over to the water fountain while he continued on. He inhaled a deep breath, welcoming the brief separation. Being close to her did strange things to his senses, and he didn’t welcome the feelings that stirred up. Women hadn’t played a part in his life since Crystal had canceled their wedding a week before the ceremony.

A man approached him as he neared the office door.

“Jake. Good to see you.”

Jake grinned and grasped his hand. “Same here, Judge.”

“I was sorry to hear your sentence was extended. I’d hoped with Mrs. Owens passing that would all end. I’ve always regretted that arrangement but at the time, well...” He patted Jake on the shoulder. “I’ll keep you in my prayers, son.”

“Thank you, sir.”

Annie met Jake’s gaze and then quickly looked away, but not before he saw the questions flare up in her blue eyes. He pushed open the office door and took care of the permits.

Back in the SUV Annie fell silent again and he noticed her rubbing her thumbnail, a gesture he suspected meant she was either stressed or confused. “I feel more questions coming on.”

“How do you know that?”

“Because you get all quiet and tense and you worry your thumb.” She quickly clasped her hands in her lap.

She was silent a long moment before speaking. “The man you spoke with.”

“Judge Rankin. He worked out my sentence with your aunt and uncle.”

“He sounded like he regretted it. Do you?”

The muscle in his jaw flexed as he tried to form a response. He regretted everything about that night. “It was better than prison.” It was time to turn the tables. He had a few questions of his own. “You’re not what I expected either.”

“Oh. In what way?”

“You’re not like your aunt.” The two women were like darkness and light. Ice and sunshine.

“I’m nothing like her.”

There was an edge to her words. Had he insulted her? “Then why are you continuing her retaliation?”

“I’m not. I’m honoring her wishes. Big difference.”

“Not to me. Do you agree with this arrangement?”

She kept her face averted. “It doesn’t matter if I agree or not. It has to be this way. It’s about family.”

What did she mean by that? Was she saying she’d do whatever her aunt asked regardless of the circumstances? Jake pulled into the school parking lot, stopping near her car. Annie immediately opened her door.

“Wait. I have your committee packet.”

“I’ll get it later. I’ve got to get home to the twins.” She shut the door, not waiting for him to reply.

He watched her hurry to her car like someone was chasing her. Did she fear him that much? What had she meant about it having to be this way? Did she mean his sentence? Or something else?

He waited for her to drive off and then let his foot off the brake. So much had happened today and he had no idea how to deal with it all.

Maybe she was right. Maybe working together wasn’t a good idea. It definitely would create a lot of tension unless they found some common ground. For reasons he didn’t quite understand, he wanted her to see the man he was now—a responsible adult, a productive member of society—but maybe she’d never be able to see beyond the accident.

What would she do if he told her the truth about that night? Would she believe him? Probably not. He doubted anyone would. It’s why he’d kept silent about the accident all these years.

An accident that didn’t happen the way people believed.

* * *

Annie watched her sons enjoying their meal that evening with gusto. Their appetites were growing as fast as they were. Listening to them talk about playing with Denise’s kids helped relieve her stress over the unsettling events of the day. Sharing quiet time with them was a blessing. There’d been precious few of those when their father was alive.

Her conscience rose up and stung her. It wasn’t as if she were glad that their father was gone, but life was so much more peaceful without his drunken rages.

Ryan took a sip of his sweet tea. “I’m glad we moved here, Mom. There’s lots of kids to play with and Coach is awesome.”

Her heart warmed at seeing her boys so happy. Life here was so much better than the harshness of before. They’d talked often of the coach who played sports with the neighborhood kids. She’d been too preoccupied with the house to watch them playing. “He is, huh? Why’s that?”

Tyler nodded in agreement. “He teaches us stuff. He showed me how to hold the football a special way to make it spin when I throw it.”

Ryan giggled. “He’s awesome ’cause he got Tyler interested in sports.”

“I’ve always liked sports.” Tyler glared at his brother.

“Next time we’re going to play basketball. Coach has a goal in his driveway. Can we get one? That would be so cool.”

“We’ll see. So, who is this coach?”

Ryan shrugged. “One of the dads, I guess.”

After clearing the table, the boys went off to the family room. Annie opened her new laptop and clicked on her student roster. She was looking forward to the new job even with Jake across the hall. Logically, there was little reason for them to interact during the day, and after school he’d be busy coaching. When they were at home she simply would keep her distance. The only glitch in her plan was the publicity committee for the carnival. There was no way out of that.

The doorbell chimed and Annie shoved back from the table and walked to the door, anticipating finding Denise on the other side, but Jake stood on her porch with a folder in his hand.

“Sorry to bother you but you left before I could give you the committee information you’ll need.”

She took the folder, a rush of shame warming her veins. She had bolted from his car when he dropped her off without even a thank you. Jake had been nothing but kind and helpful and she’d behaved poorly. “I was in a hurry to get home for the boys.”

His expression showed his skepticism. “I understand.” He pointed to the folder. “Look that over. If you have any questions, just ask. We’ll need to get together soon and design a flyer, but it can wait until after school starts.”

She nodded. “Good. I have a lot to do before then.”

Ryan came up behind her. “Hey, it’s Coach. Tyler, Coach is here.”

The boys crowded around her, smiling up at Jake.

“Hey, fellas.” He smiled at the twins but it vanished when he looked at her.

Annie stared at him. “You’re the coach they’ve been talking about? I thought it was one of the dads from the neighborhood.”

Tyler pushed forward. “We’re going to play basketball soon, right, Coach?”

She saw Jake wince. “Why don’t you two go back inside. I need to talk to Coach for a minute.”

They waved and went back into the house. Jake spoke before she could.

“Sorry. I thought you knew. I hope you won’t let the past prevent you from letting the boys play in the games. They seemed to enjoy it, and I make sure it’s safe.”

What did she do now? The boys knew nothing about the sentence imposed on Jake. If she made too big a fuss about them playing ball in his front yard, they’d want to know why and that would require an explanation she wasn’t willing to give.

“My heart wants to say no, but my head says it’s why I brought the boys here. I wanted them to have the freedom to play they’ve never had.” She shifted her weight. “Since my husband died I tend to be overly protective of the boys.”

“Sorry to hear about your husband. What happened?”

“He was killed in a drunk-driving accident.” Jake’s eyes darkened and his expression turned to stone. Too late she realized that he must have interpreted her remark as a dig about Bobby Lee. She extended her hand to apologize but he stepped back.

“I’d better go. If you have any questions about the committee, just let me know.” He pivoted and hurried down the porch steps and down the side walk.

She hadn’t meant to taunt him. She took a deep breath. It had been a very emotional day with too many adjustments on the fly. She went inside and closed the door. He’d been attempting to reassure her about the boys playing ball games and she’d responded with an unintentional slap in the face. Not her finest moment.

Maybe it was time to let go. Accept that Jake was in her life and deal with it the best she could. She couldn’t continue to live with the tension every time she was around him. Just because he wasn’t what she’d expected didn’t mean he was a bad guy. He’d been kind, helpful and the neighborhood kids adored him. He was well respected at school. Shouldn’t that be a trustworthy endorsement?

But technically Jake was a criminal. Wasn’t he? And what would her aunt think of the boys befriending the enemy? As she walked down the hall toward the kitchen, she passed a large mirror on the wall and glanced at her reflection. Be honest, Annelle. You’re feeling guilty about agreeing to your aunt’s terms. The truth was she was ashamed of her part in the arrangement, but she had to think of her children’s future. They deserved a home and a life without chaos and uncertainty. Didn’t they?

She exhaled a loud exasperated sigh and strode into the kitchen.

Thankfully tomorrow night was her widow’s therapy session. She needed all the advice and support she could get because she had no idea how to proceed from here.

* * *

Jake jogged across the street, his mind choking on the news Annie had revealed. Her husband was killed in a drunk-driving accident. No wonder she had issues with him. Every time she looked at him, she either saw her cousin or her husband.

Annie’s revelation rocked him, unleashing a long-buried need to forget and escape. He needed to get some perspective before he made a very bad decision. Pulling out his cell, he placed a call to Harley. “I’m going to be late getting there tonight. I have a meeting to go to.”

“You okay? You sound strange.”

Harley was not only his friend but his foster brother and his pastor. He knew him better than anyone. Most times that was a blessing, but sometimes it was a nuisance. At the moment he wasn’t sure which was which.

Jake ran a hand through his hair. “Ever have a day when you were blitzed on all sides?”

“Many. What’s going on?”

“We have a new teacher at the school. Annie Shepherd.”

“Whoa. That’s going to be interesting.”

“It gets worse. Her boys are in my class.” Harley made a sympathetic sound. “And we’re teamed up on the same committee for the carnival.”

“Oh man. What are you going to do?”

“Nothing I can do. I’m more worried about what she’ll do.”

“Such as?”

“Tell everyone how we’re connected, for one thing.”

“Would she do that?”

Even in the short time he’d been around her, he knew Annie would never do that. “I don’t think so, but she could say something inadvertently that could jeopardize my job, not to mention my hopes of snagging that high school coaching position.”

“I doubt that. Your records were sealed, and that was a long time ago. We talked about this when you decided to move back here. It’s sad to say few people remember Bobby Lee or how he died.”

“And what if the athletic director at Heritage High learns that the guy wanting to coach the students was driving drunk and killed his friend? How’s that going to look as a job reference?”

“You’re letting Annie’s presence get to you. Or is it more than that?”

He hesitated. “She made a comment today about family and how important it was to honor her aunt’s wishes.”

“Understandable. Family ties are strong.”

Jake pinched the bridge of his nose. “I suppose. I’m probably worrying for nothing. I’ve got to go. See you later.”

He ended the call just as an email popped up on his phone. It was a notice from the Heritage High administration office letting him know his application had been received and was being processed. He wanted that job. It was the next rung on his way to achieving his goal. He only hoped that Annie’s presence at his school wouldn’t put his future plans at risk.

The knot in his chest tightened as he drove to his meeting. The look on her face when she told him about how her husband died was burned into his mind. Was her husband’s death the reason she’d agreed to continue his sentence? Did she believe he should pay forever the way her aunt did? If she didn’t, then why wouldn’t she simply cut him loose? He parked his car and got out. How deep did her animosity run?

Jake strode down the narrow hallway to the small room at the back of the old storefront in downtown Hastings. A dozen or so people were already there, milling around, and a few had already taken a seat in the rows of folding chairs. At the front of the room a man stood at a rickety lectern. He didn’t know anyone at this location but he knew their situation and he knew the routine.

The man at the front called the meeting to order. After a few opening words, he asked if anyone would like to speak. Jake stood and squared his shoulders.

“My name is Jake and I’m an alcoholic.”

Chapter Four

School had been in session for a couple of weeks and Annie had yet to find an opportunity to talk to Jake. Getting her classroom ready for the new school year and starting classes had kept them both busy. With his classroom across the hall she’d expected to see him frequently, but it hadn’t happened that way. She suspected Jake was avoiding her.

Today she’d arrived early at the school determined to find a moment to talk to him. The twins hurried off to join their friends and Annie made her way to Jake’s classroom. She had to set things straight if she didn’t want Jake thinking she was deliberately trying to poke his wound.

She peeked into room 18C but Jake had a student seated near his desk. He glanced up and the slight smile on his face faded. “Hey. Do you need to see me?”

“Yes, but it can wait. I’ll catch you later.” He started to speak but she ducked away, grateful for the postponement. She wasn’t as ready to explain to him as she’d thought. She didn’t have another opportunity to approach him until the end of the day, when he exited the front door as she and the boys were leaving. She hurried to catch up.

“Jake.” He stopped and turned to face her and her heart rolled over in her chest. His serious expression punctured her resolve. Would he accept her apology? Would he understand?

“Boys, get in the car. I need to talk to Coach a minute.” She walked toward him, keenly aware of how imposing he could be with his height and his probing brown eyes, which made you feel as though he could see deep into who you really were. She inhaled a fortifying breath. “I wanted to apologize for the way I told you about Rick, my husband. It might have sounded like I was trying to subtly remind you about...the accident. I wasn’t.” He held her gaze a long moment, raising her discomfort and concern.

“I didn’t think that. I was surprised—that’s all. Losing two family members in the same way must be painful. And unfair.”

The quiet understanding in his deep voice touched her heart. “You and I both know life is never fair.”

He nodded, his eyes locked with hers. “Yes, we do.”

Her conscience burned again. No matter how she looked at things, under it all was her agreement with her aunt’s request, which made her both guilty and ashamed. Why didn’t he get mad or rant about the injustice? It would make things easier for her, but he was stoic and accepting, and that didn’t match her expectations.

The awkward silence lingered. She searched for something neutral to say. “I guess we should get started on making those flyers.”

“We should. When would you like to get together?”

“I’ll let you know. Soon.” Annie hurried to her car. She wasn’t sure she’d settled things with Jake or not. He’d still been cool and aloof. It’s what she’d wanted, wasn’t it? A nice wide emotional distance between them? It was safer that way.

So why didn’t it feel safe? Her encounters with Jake always left her feeling like she was standing on the edge of a cliff. It was scary and exciting at the same time and it made no sense at all.

* * *

Annie gripped the large box with both hands, trying to keep a firm hold on her side. The twins were struggling to control their side. She knew she was overloading the cardboard container, but she’d felt certain with the boys’ help they could carry it to the street for the trash men to pick up later today. The more trash she got rid of from the old house, the better she felt.

Using her foot she pushed the front door open, being careful to watch her step.

“Mom. It’s heavy,” Ryan whined.

“Can we set it down?” Tyler grunted.

Annie ignored the moaning and groaning as they struggled to hold on to the box. “Let’s get it down the steps. Then we can shove it toward the street.”

Slowly she found the top step with her foot. “Be careful on the—”

The weight in her hands suddenly shifted as the boys dropped their end, sending her hard against the brick porch post. The box tumbled down the steps and split open on one side, spilling the contents all over the sidewalk.

Tyler looked at her with apologetic eyes. “Sorry, Mom. It got heavy.”

Ryan stared at the mess and grinned. “Cool.”

Annie sighed and checked the scrape on her arm.

“Everyone okay over here? I tried to get here before you dropped the box.”

Jake.

Before she could speak, he took her forearm in his hand and examined the long scratch from the brick post. His touch was gentle and warm, and she couldn’t take her eyes from the sight of his strong tanned hand resting against her pale skin. Her senses reacted to being so close. Her throat went dry, her palms dampened and her pulse beat erratically as she noticed his intense gaze.

“You okay? It doesn’t look too bad.” He pulled out a handkerchief and lightly dabbed at the scrape.

She looked up into his eyes, caught off guard by the concern in the brown depths. A long-forgotten warmth encircled her heart. How long had it been since anyone had considered her wellbeing and tended to her wounds?

“I’m fine. Thank you. I shouldn’t have packed the box so full. I was in a hurry to get all the junk out of the house.”

The twins looked at each other and nodded. “It was heavy.”

“Well, here’s a thought. Why not call upon a friend and neighbor to help with the heavy stuff?”

A curt reply was on the tip of her tongue, but she clamped her mouth shut when she saw the teasing glint in his eyes.

“Mom, can we go now? You said if we helped with the box, we could go to Steve and Johnny’s.”

There was no reason to prolong their agony. “Yes. Fine. I’ll clean this up.”

The twins ran off and Annie realized Jake still held her arm in his hand. The current coursing through her veins at his touch alarmed her, and she tugged her arm free and took a step backward. “I’ll be fine. I’ve had worse.”

He gave her an indulgent smile, though she didn’t know why.

“Let’s get this mess cleaned up. Do you have another box?”

She nodded, using the opportunity to escape his presence and regain her equilibrium. When she returned with two more boxes, Jake was hunkered down, looking at the papers that had been in the container. He glanced up at her, his brows knitted together. “What is this stuff?”

Annie set the boxes down and then sat on the steps. “It’s all the pictures and drawings my aunt had on her bedroom walls.”

“All of this? It must be everything Bobby Lee ever did since kindergarten.”

She sighed. “Probably. His room hadn’t been touched since he died.”

Jake lowered his head. “I guess I shouldn’t be surprised.”

The odd tone in his voice pricked her irritation. Was he judging? He had no right. “Bobby Lee was Aunt Margaret’s whole life and he was my best friend growing up. We did everything together. He was smart, funny, athletic and a born leader. Aunt Margaret would tell my mom about all his accomplishments. President of his class, football hero, valedictorian. Everyone loved him. I can understand how losing him must have been crippling. My mom was afraid her sister would never recover.” It struck her that her mother had been right. Judging from the things she was discovering in this house, her aunt had never accepted her son’s death.

Annie faced Jake, expecting to find a look of remorse, guilt or sorrow. What she saw was an expression of puzzlement and concern, which didn’t make any sense. What had she expected? A spiritual confession or for him to fall on his knees, begging for her forgiveness?

“Any more boxes you need hauled away?”

“No. I can handle the rest. But thank you.”

Jake quickly loaded the boxes, secured the flaps and placed them at the curb before facing her. “If you have any more heavy lifting to do, call me. I don’t mind.”

She nodded. Fat chance. She’d needed him today, but she could have done it without him. She watched him walk across the street before going back inside. A pile of boxes and bags stared her in the face. It was going to take weeks to clear out the junk and the furniture. Not to mention pulling up the old carpet and refinishing the floors and taking down the old wallpaper.

Suddenly updating the house felt like an impossible task. She was used to doing things on her own and never asking for help. But Jake was right about one thing. She couldn’t do it alone. The boys weren’t strong enough and she lacked the skills. She could afford to hire someone to redo the entire house, but she couldn’t bring herself to spend money on such things even when there was more than enough.

She picked up another box and took it out to the street. Denise crossed the lawn as she was returning to the porch.

“Hey, was that Jake I saw over here a few minutes ago?”

Annie nodded. She’d only told her friend the bare minimum about her relationship with Jake. That they worked at the same school and were on a committee together. The rest was private matter between the two of them. Not for public consumption. “He helped me clean up a mess.”

“That was nice of him.”

“Yes. I guess.”

Denise studied her. “Do you have something against him? You always act weird whenever he’s mentioned.”

Had her feelings been so apparent? “No. Of course not. It’s just that I don’t know him very well.”

“I can assure you, he’s a great guy and a good role model for the kids. You’ve seen how much they all love playing games with him this summer. Most of the parents on the street think he’s a godsend. He keeps the kids entertained and outside instead of holed up inside, playing video games.”

She couldn’t argue with that. “I know.”

“Did I mention he’s also very involved with the youth at our church? Speaking of which, I’m hoping you’ll attend with us this Sunday.”

“Yes. We will. I want the twins to get involved again.”

“Great. The kids will be happy to hear that. I’ll see you then.” Denise started to leave but then glanced back. “Cut Jake some slack, okay? He’s a great guy when you get to know him.”

Annie nodded, unable to speak around the lump in her throat. To everyone else, Jake was a person to admire. They didn’t know what she knew.

How would they feel if they knew the truth? No. She couldn’t do that. Ever. If Jake had been a hardened criminal, she could have explained and everyone would understand her concern. But Jake was the hero of the neighborhood, a good guy with a heart for kids and helping others. She didn’t want to ruin that for him. She might not be able to end his sentence, but she could keep the accident and his part in it to herself. Jake didn’t deserve to have his past dug up and put on display. He’s paid long enough. She tried to imagine being forced to pay a debt over and over for the rest of your life. Her issues with him were her own.

What if she discovered Jake was a good guy? If the man had gotten his life together, made a contribution to society and became an upstanding citizen, then what purpose did the sentence serve? Did her aunt have any idea about Jake the man? Or had she only wanted to see the young man he’d been when he’d made a very bad decision?

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