She’d given up on having a family...

until he made her feel right at home.

First-grade teacher Joy Kelliher has two new students—twin boys who belong to her high school sweetheart. If teaching Nick Capello’s sons wasn’t difficult enough, the widower’s also her neighbor…and competing for the principal job she wants. Now with little matchmakers drawing Joy and Nick together, can they overcome a painful past to build the family Joy’s always wanted?

Weekdays, JILL WEATHERHOLT works for the City of Charlotte. On the weekend, she writes contemporary stories about love, faith and forgiveness. Raised in the suburbs of Washington, DC, she now resides in North Carolina. She holds a degree in psychology from George Mason University and a paralegal studies certification from Duke University. She shares her life with her real-life hero and number one supporter. Jill loves connecting with readers at jillweatherholt.com.

Also By Jill Weatherholt

Second Chance Romance

A Father for Bella

A Mother for His Twins

Discover more at millsandboon.co.uk

A Mother for His Twins

Jill Weatherholt

www.millsandboon.co.uk

ISBN: 978-1-474-09733-8

A MOTHER FOR HIS TWINS

© 2019 Jill Weatherholt

Published in Great Bri tain 2019

by Mills & Boon, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers 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.

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“This is our new home.”

Nick placed his hands on his sons’ shoulders. “We’re renting now, but the owners are thinking about selling.”

This was getting more unbelievable by the second.

“Mrs. Buser mentioned yesterday that we’d be neighbors. I guess it’s true what they say about it being a small world.” He scratched the side of his head and crinkled his brow.

Neighbors? What was that old saying Joy had heard? Good fences make good neighbors—or something like that. That was it—she’d build a fence as high as her homeowners’ association would allow. She was president; she should know the restrictions. She’d have to check the covenants. Even still, building a wall around her property wouldn’t keep Nick out of her heart. “But this is my neighborhood. I moved here after college.”

“She lives right over there, Daddy,” Tyler announced, pointing in the direction of Joy’s one-story ranch home. “Isn’t that cool? Maybe she’ll invite us over for dinner sometime.”

This definitely wasn’t cool. Dinner? Absolutely not. How would she avoid Nick when he’d be just outside her door?

Dear Reader,

Thank you for once again paying a visit to Whispering Slopes...my favorite fictional town nestled in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. I hope you enjoyed reading the reunion story of Nick and Joy. Two wounded hearts who struggled with the “if only” when it came to their pasts.

If and only—two words that can start a person down the road of self-doubt. Questioning things we should have done, or something we shouldn’t have done. Choices. We all make them each day of our life. Some take us down the right path while others might send us spiraling into a world of regret.

But what is past is done. We don’t get a redo, but we don’t have to let our past define who we are today. That was the challenge both Nick and Joy faced, but thankfully they realized God’s forgiveness isn’t only available to a selected few. It’s there for the taking, if we step out in faith and ask.

Remember, nothing surprises God, so let it go! Don’t live a life burdened with guilt and regret. He has bigger plans for you, so don’t waste another minute.

I love connecting with readers and getting to know you. Please visit my website, jillweatherholt.com, and follow my blog. You can also find me at www.facebook.com/jillweatherholtauthor or email me at authorjillweatherholt@gmail.com. I’d love to chat with you.

Jill

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

—2 Corinthians 5:17

To my beautiful mother.

Your support, encouragement and constant love have sustained me throughout my life.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

About the Author

Booklist

Title Page

Copyright

Note to Readers

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

Chapter Fourteen

Epilogue

Extract

About the Publisher

Chapter One

If the rancid coffee was an indication of the day ahead, perhaps Joy Kelliher should have stayed in bed. Settling into her favorite leather chair in the teachers’ lounge at Whispering Slopes K-12, she leaned toward the frosty window, pushing her thick brunette hair away from her face. She treasured the early morning hours before the school bustled with children. It was the second week in January, and the Virginia mountain community, nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, had yet to experience their first major snowfall of the season. Smiling, Joy eyed a white-tailed deer as it meandered across the playground, leaving its footprints in the dusting of snow that had fallen overnight. Spooked, it raced off into the forest that lined the school grounds. Fear. She knew it well.

A knock at the open door jarred the first-grade teacher before her mind spiraled down that dark road.

“Joy, I’d like to introduce you to your two new students.”

Mr. Jacobson stood in the doorway. A small, thick man with thinning gray hair, he’d taken over as principal after her father passed away when she was only two years old. With his retirement date nearing, her dream to work with and protect all of the children in the school, not just those in her classroom, could finally come true. She’d begun preparing for an interview the moment Mr. Jacobson had announced his retirement.

“This is Jordan and Tyler Capello,” he said, guiding two brown-haired, rosy-cheeked boys into the room.

Capello. No, it can’t be. Joy rubbed her eyes. The wood chair screeched as she pushed her slender frame from her seat. Was she seeing double?

The principal chuckled. “Yes, they’re twins. Identical. You’ll have your hands full.” He turned toward the door. “I believe you know their father.” He extended his right arm. “Nick, don’t be shy. Come on in, son.”

Heat prickled the back of her neck. She gripped the edge of the chair to steady herself. Nick Capello. This couldn’t be happening. Not after fourteen years of silence—of heartache.

Her heart pummeled against her rib cage as he slowly approached her—all six feet five inches of him. No longer the boy she remembered. With his Italian good looks, he’d grown into a strikingly handsome man who could still make her knees wobble like a newborn colt’s.

“Hello, Joy.” He reached for one of her hands, which she kept fisted at the sides of her thighs.

She swallowed once and then again before risking another glance in his direction. The lump lodged in her throat didn’t budge. “What...? Why...? What are you doing here?”

The once extended hand raked through his dark hair. His piercing blue eyes locked with hers. “This is my home. It’s always been. My boys are going to experience the joys of growing up in a small town, just like I did. I want that sense of community for them.”

His home? How could he call Whispering Slopes home? He and his family had moved in the dark of night, leaving a small town asking questions and her heart smashed in a million tiny pieces.

Her shoulders squared. “This isn’t your home.” Once it had been, but that was a lifetime ago.

One of the twins with a slightly larger frame stepped forward and flashed a smile that revealed two missing front teeth. “I’m Tyler, and this is my brother, Jordan. He might not talk much, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t like you—he’s just shy, that’s all.”

Her heart squeezed as she studied the boy with freckles that dotted his nose. He was the spitting image of his father at that age. She would know. She’d known Nick all of her life. They’d grown up together and had fallen in love. During their senior year of high school they’d made a plan. After graduation, they’d marry and have a house full of children. Joy had never been happier...and then it was all stripped away.

Nick placed his hands on Tyler’s shoulders and eyed Joy. “I’m sorry if I’ve caught you off guard. Maybe I should have called first.”

In order to maintain her professionalism, she drew in a slow and steady breath. She’d worked too hard to establish her reputation at this school. She forced a smile as she glanced at the twins. “Welcome to Whispering Slopes, boys.”

Mr. Jacobson cleared his throat. “Nick, why don’t we leave the boys here to get better acquainted with Miss Kelliher? We’ll go down to the office and get them registered. Then we can get your paperwork taken care of so you can start subbing on Monday.”

Joy’s head spun toward the principal. “Excuse me?”

“Nick’s going to take over Mrs. Murray’s classroom while she’s out on maternity leave.” Mr. Jacobson smiled at Joy. “I can’t tell you how thrilled I am to have former students teaching at the school. You two will be right across the hallway from each other.”

Nick’s gaze burned the side of her face. She couldn’t look at him. Not now. The pain from the past bubbled to the surface like cooking oil poured into a pot of boiling water. No. She wouldn’t cry in front of him. Too many tears had been shed over this man.

Nick knelt in front of his boys. “Are you two going to be okay?”

“Sure, Daddy,” they replied in unison as their father stood.

Jordan didn’t look as certain as his brother. Tyler had spoken the truth. He appeared to be more timid than his twin.

“Okay, then. I’ll be back to pick you up at three o’clock. We’ll go out for ice cream and you can tell me all about your first day.”

She watched as the boys’ eyes lit up, shaking off the memory of how Nick’s eyes had done the same whenever she’d entered a room. They’d been so in love. She almost smiled at the memory.

“See you later, Daddy.”

Nick turned to Joy. “Right across the hall, so I guess we’ll be seeing a lot of each other.” He flashed a crooked smile.

She remained silent. Fourteen years had passed and Nick had been silent, too. He’d never once called or even sent a letter to explain why one minute he’d been in her life and then he’d vanished. It took years for her to get past the pain. But really, had she ever stopped hurting? Did the constant yearning to feel his arms around her one more time ever really go away? Seeing Nick now, she realized the wounds remained fresh.

He dropped his gaze to the ground. With his shoulders slumped, he left the room.

Painful memories surged like a massive lightning bolt on a steamy August afternoon. Lord, how can You let this happen? I can’t teach these boys. Is this some sort of punishment? Didn’t I suffer enough on that night fourteen years ago?

She watched as the twins peered out the window toward the playground, chattering in whispered tones. I can do this. She exhaled. “So, would you like to go outside and play for a while?”

They both turned and eagerly nodded their heads.

“We’ve got half an hour before class starts.” The sun had already begun to melt the dusting of snow. “Make sure you zip up your coats.”

Outside on the playground, Joy used a paper towel to wipe off the bench closest to the swings and took a seat. Tyler took the towels she’d given them and cleared the teeter-totter before helping his brother climb aboard. She smiled. He definitely was his brother’s protector.

Inhaling the brisk mountain air, she pulled her phone from the pocket of her jacket to call her twin sister, Faith. Having lost their parents at a young age, they leaned on each other in difficult times. Throughout their lives, Faith had served as Joy’s lighthouse, guiding her through every storm, especially after that horrible night. Her twin was the only one who knew about the attack, but nothing more. Before that evening, Joy had always shared everything with Faith, but what happened weeks later was something she couldn’t bear to tell anyone—not even her closest confidante. As she punched the number for the resort, she kept a close eye on the boys.

“Thank you for calling the Black Bear Resort. This is Faith.”

What was formerly a small inn had grown into a larger resort. Her sister was living her dream, running the business along with a wonderful man, Joshua. They’d married last year and now they were expecting twins. Bella—Faith’s daughter from her first husband, who’d died tragically fighting a fire—was thrilled to know two babies would soon join their family.

“Hey, can you talk?”

“What’s up, sis?”

“Well, I’m sitting here on the playground watching my two newest students... Twins.” Joy pressed her palm into the arm of the cedar bench. “They’re Nick’s kids.” Saying it out loud made it more real.

“Oh, my. I always knew he’d come back, but I didn’t expect him to return with children.”

Joy hadn’t anticipated either scenario. “Why did you think he’d return to Whispering Slopes?”

Faith laughed. “Because of you, of course.”

“That’s crazy. He’s got children, so he must have a wife. Besides, he’s come back to teach.” The thought of working so closely with him seemed like a bad dream. “I can’t believe this is happening. His presence makes everything feel like it just happened yesterday.” Her words sparked a shiver.

“You need to talk with him and tell him what happened to you, Joy.”

Her stomach rolled over at the thought. How could she ever talk to him about that night she’d been waiting for him at the pond? “I don’t think I can. Besides, what’s the point?”

“Talking about it might help with the healing process. It’s been fourteen years... You’ve got to let it go.”

Sprigs of partially frozen fescue flattened underneath her feet. “I don’t think I can. I’m too ashamed. Besides, it won’t change the past. Can we move on to another subject? I want to forget about Nick Capello.”

“That’s going to be a little hard given the fact that you’ll be teaching his kids and working together.”

“I’ll just treat him like any other parent or coworker.” Joy knew convincing herself of that would be easier said than done.

“But he’s not.”

The truth in Faith’s words stung. “He’s a stranger to me now.” She spied the boys climbing off the teeter-totter. Once again, Tyler assisted Jordan. “I’ve got to go. Thanks for listening.”

“Are you sure you’re okay?”

“Yeah—I’ll be fine.” Joy ended the call just as the twins approached. The knot in her stomach squeezed a little tighter knowing she hadn’t been truthful with her sister. From now until the end of the school year, she’d have a constant reminder of a love lost. But it wasn’t fair to the boys for her to treat them differently. Despite the resemblance, somehow she’d have to forget their father was the love of her life. “It’s a little cold. Are you ready to go inside?”

They exchanged a quick glance with one another. Tyler spoke first. “We’d rather stay out here with you.”

She knew that look... Fear. “Don’t you want to meet your new classmates? I’m sure they’ll be excited to welcome you.”

Jordan kicked his tennis shoe into the wet ground. “They pwobably won’t like us.”

Joy noticed Jordan struggled with the letter r. She rested her hand on the boy’s shoulder. “What makes you say that?”

Tyler hopped up on the bench next to her. “The kids at our old school didn’t.”

What was not to love about these enchanting children? “Could it have been your imagination?”

Jordan took his brother’s lead and plopped on the other side of his teacher. “No, they didn’t.” He spoke softly.

Tyler glanced up toward the sky. “They said we were different because we looked alike.”

Kids could be so cruel sometimes. “You know what I think?” Joy stood and then knelt in front of the bench. “I think maybe they were jealous because they knew you were guaranteed to always have a best friend.”

Tyler’s eyebrow arched exactly how his father’s always had. “What do you mean?”

“When you’re a twin, you’ve got a best friend for life. You know someone who always has your back. I’m a twin. Not identical like the two of you, but I know what I’m talking about.”

Grins washed across their faces.

“If anyone ever teases you again you tell them you’re so special, God had to make two of you.”

In one swift movement, the twins wrapped their arms around her. She pulled back—frightened by the tug she felt on her heart. “So, you haven’t told me anything about yourselves. Where did you live before you came to Whispering Slopes?”

“In Chicago.” Jordan answered first.

“That’s where our mommy was born.” Tyler’s smile faded.

“She died there, too,” Jordan added.

Joy had wondered about their mother and why she hadn’t come with Nick to registration. Now she knew. The tear that puddled in the corner of sweet little Jordan’s eye caused her heart to squeeze. She knew the pain of losing a parent at a young age.

“We didn’t really want to move, but Daddy wants to teach where he grew up,” Tyler explained as he jumped off the bench at the sound of the school bell. “He’s going to be the new principal, too.” The child reached for her hand as they strolled toward the building.

What? That was impossible. The boys must have misunderstood. Nick couldn’t be here for that job. The knot in her stomach squeezed a little tighter. She’d been studying hard to obtain her master’s degree and had nearly completed the program. There was only one opening for a principal in Whispering Slopes—and it belonged to her.

* * *

“Here’s the list of school supplies we need. Miss Kelliher said to go to Buser’s General Store. They’ve got the best prices.” Tyler pulled the crinkled piece of paper from his superhero backpack and handed it to his father.

Nick smiled at his son. He always liked to be in charge, while Jordan seemed to follow his brother’s lead.

The twins’ half-eaten ice cream sundaes were turning into milky soup. Since they’d arrived at One More Scoop, they’d chattered nonstop about their first day of school.

Seeing his boys so excited helped to ease some of the painful memories and the guilt that haunted him. Nick smiled at the familiar chalkboard hanging on the wall behind the register. The menu listed all of the specialty flavors of ice cream. They still made Coke floats. Everything looked exactly how it had when he was a kid. It even smelled the same, like a sugary waffle cone on a boardwalk during the height of summer.

Jordan scooped a spoon of the melted dessert from his bowl and held it to his lips. “All of the kids wuh weally nice.”

Nick laughed as the treat dribbled down his chin. It made him happy to know his son had had a good day. Jordan struggled at times in social situations due to his speech impairment. Nick yanked a napkin from the holder and passed it to his son. “Here, I think you need this.”

“Yeah, and no one teased us about looking alike either,” Tyler added.

Jordan wiped his mouth as the whirl of a blender charged from behind the counter. “Even if they had, Miss Kellihuh told us what to say. She’s weally nice.”

Nick’s ears perked up at the mention of Joy’s name. There was a part of him that had hoped he’d run into Joy, but when he’d made the decision to move home, he never imagined his first love would end up teaching his sons. “What did she tell you?”

“She said if someone teased us to tell them we were so special God made two of us,” Tyler said, wearing a huge grin. “She’s really cool.”

He closed his eyes for a second and pictured Joy’s face. Her response to the boys was exactly what he’d expect. It’s what he’d loved most about her. She always knew what to say at the perfect time. “She’s right, you know.”

“She’s a twin, too.” Jordan picked up his bowl and started to drink the melted ice cream.

Nick reached for his arm. “Use your manners, son.”

“Sowwy.” He put the treat back onto the red-and-white-checkered tablecloth and fidgeted in his seat.

“Yeah, Daddy, Miss Kelliher has a twin sister.” Tyler took a sip of his water. “But they’re not identical like us.”

Growing up, Nick remembered Joy wishing she and Faith were identical. Her twin was good in math while Joy struggled. She always thought it would be nice if Faith could take her place on the days they had a test. “Yes, I know.”

The boys looked at each other with crinkled brows. “How?” they asked in unison.

Nick wasn’t ready to tell the boys that, once upon a time, he and their teacher had had plans to marry. “Miss Kelliher and I grew up running around in our diapers together.”

The twins covered their faces and giggled.

“That’s funny,” Jordan said. “I like huh.”

“She’s really pretty.” Tyler spoke up. “Don’t you think, Daddy?”

Nick hesitated.

“Yeah, Daddy, don’t you think so?” Jordan asked.

Nick’s heartbeat quickened. Their mother and Joy were both the most beautiful women he’d ever known. Different in their own ways, but the one common denominator was their loving and compassionate hearts. His stomach twisted at the thought of Michelle suffering in silence from complications of Crohn’s disease. He should have noticed. Since she’d passed away a year ago last November, the guilt had gnawed away at him each day, but more so at night.

Nick shook off the negative thoughts. “Come on now and finish up your ice cream so we can get your supplies.”

The boys exchanged a quick glance.

Nick watched Jordan as he pushed his bowl aside. He hoped bringing his boys back to Whispering Slopes wasn’t creating more anxiety over their mother’s death.

Thirty minutes later the bell on the door chimed as Nick and the boys entered Buser’s General Store. Nick’s heart warmed. Just like One More Scoop, it was as though time had stood still. The scent of cinnamon swirled in the air. He’d always loved the swizzle candy sticks sold in the giant jar. The sound system played a continuous playlist of songs from the 1950s. He smiled when he spotted a young boy and girl, probably in high school, sharing a cream soda at the counter. How many times had he and Joy sat in that same spot, excited about their future?

He turned when the door tinkled. The trip down memory lane came to a screeching halt.

“Miss Kelliher!” All smiles, Tyler and Jordan sprinted across the room.

Nick swallowed hard while he observed the obvious attachment budding between the boys and their teacher. This concerned him. What if he didn’t secure the job as principal? Would he once again uproot the twins? Could he stay in Whispering Slopes and be happy just teaching? He’d worked hard to obtain his master’s degree, at the expense of his family. Of course, he needed to focus on keeping his own attachments to Joy in check, too. But that could be difficult since their classrooms would be directly across the hall from each other. He’d never imagined when he’d applied for the open teaching position that she’d be working at the school they’d attended together. One thing he did know: she wasn’t going to be happy when she learned he’d be interviewing for the principal position. He couldn’t help but wonder if she’d be applying. After all, her father had held the job for most of his career.

“We came to get everything on your list,” Tyler called out. He flashed the sheet of paper as the group walked back toward Nick.

Her long brown tresses hung straight to the middle of her back. She quickly tucked a stray strand behind her ear. “I thought you’d stop by after your ice cream. That’s why I came.”

“You did?” Nick couldn’t imagine why she’d want to see him, especially after he’d surprised her earlier at the school. It was obvious she wasn’t thrilled to have him back or that she’d be teaching his children. Who could blame her? As far as she knew, he’d never tried to make contact after his father moved their family. But he had. She just didn’t know because, unbeknownst to him at the time, his letters had never been mailed. More than anything, he’d wanted to call Joy and explain, but his father didn’t want anyone in Whispering Slopes to know their dark secret. Although almost a man, Nick had been torn between his loyalty to his family and his hometown sweetheart. But earlier today, Joy had been a professional and kept her emotions in check in front of Mr. Jacobson. Now, when she looked in his direction, her brow arched, making her look tenser than earlier...if that were possible.

She reached into her camel tote bag and pulled out two red mittens.

“My mittens.” Jordan gave a questioning look. “Why do you have them?” He reached inside of his coat pockets.

“I found them on the floor of the coat closet in my classroom.”

Nick noticed the tears in his son’s eyes. “Are you okay, buddy?”

Jordan’s hand shook as he reached for the mittens. “My mommy made these for me,” he sniffled. “I’d be sad if I evuh lost them.”

“How did you know they belonged to Jordan?” Nick asked, but then he remembered.

“His name is sewn on the inside of each one.” Joy looked down at Jordan and smiled. “Obviously your mommy was smart. She knew how easy it is to lose track of these.”

Was. The boys had told Joy about their mother.

Jordan slipped his tiny hands inside each mitten. “I’ll nevuh forget them again. I pwomise.”

Nick rested his hand on his son’s shoulder. “I know you won’t, Jordan.” Although the boy had almost outgrown the garments, Nick knew how special they were to him.

“Let’s go check out the candy aisle, Jor!” Tyler motioned for his brother.

Jordan turned to Joy. “Thank you, Miss Kellihuh. I don’t know what I would have done if I’d lost these.” He gave his teacher a quick hug around the waist and took off toward the treats.

Nick’s heart squeezed as he turned to Joy. “Thank you for making a trip over here.”

Her smile was warm. “It’s on my way home. Besides, we can’t have his little fingers freezing. It can get really cold here, especially in the morning when they’re headed off for school.”

She seemed nervous. He remembered how she used to blink her eyes repeatedly when she was in an uncomfortable situation. “That’s thoughtful of you. Speaking of... The boys told me how you helped them get over their first-day-of-school jitters. I appreciate that,” he said with hopes of making their encounter a little more comfortable.

“It goes with the territory of being a teacher.”

“You’re obviously great with children.” He glanced at her ring finger, wondering if she’d gotten married, but it was bare. Still, he couldn’t help but ask, “No doubt you have several of your own by now?”

He watched as her shoulders stiffened and both brows crinkled.

“I’m sorry... That was rude,” he stuttered.

Joy’s gaze turned to the boys before looking back in his direction. “So, how are your parents?”

Heat prickled up the back of his neck. Now it was his turn to be uncomfortable. There was so much he wanted to tell her—needed to tell her. The reason for his sudden departure...and then the silence on his end. She deserved an explanation, but this wasn’t the place. Of course, he wondered if there would ever be the right time or place to tell her. How could he explain how quickly he’d moved on with a new life? “They’ve both passed on.” Nick swallowed hard, in need of a glass of water.

“I’m sorry to hear that—really, I am.” She placed her hand on his forearm.

Nick recalled his mother’s agonizing death. She’d fought a long battle with her addiction to painkillers—pills that her doctors handed out like candy following her back injury.

The cuckoo clock hanging behind the counter sounded.

“It was a rough period in my life—those years after my family left.” After his mother passed, it got even worse. Watching his father turn to alcohol to mask the pain of losing his partner had been overwhelming for Nick, but it made him realize he had to grow up fast.

“I suppose you have some peace knowing your parents are together with the Lord,” she said softly.

That was exactly what had carried him through the most difficult time of his life. Watching his father turn into someone he no longer knew was hard, but then the cancer was discovered in his father’s pancreas. It took him fast. He didn’t suffer, so that was a blessing. “You’re right. My parents are together again.”

Following a moment of silence, the twins ran toward the adults.

“Can we go back to the hotel, Daddy? I want to go swimming,” Tyler pleaded.

“Hotel?” Joy looked at Nick with an arched brow.

“Yeah, we get to live in a hotel with room service and everything. They even have an indoor pool,” Tyler said.

Nick turned at the sound of footsteps pecking across the hardwood floor.

“You can’t raise these boys in a hotel,” an elderly woman stated.

Sporting the same tight perm, although now snow-white, she looked exactly how he remembered. His heart warmed at the sight of the woman who’d watched him grow up. “Mrs. Buser, it’s so nice to see you.” He strolled toward her and hugged her tight.

She took a step back, gripping his arms. “Nick Capello, I knew you’d come back one day.” Glancing at the twins, she smiled then returned her attention to him. “Why are you and these cute youngins living in a hotel?”

Joy watched with her arms folded.

“It’s only temporary—until our furniture arrives.” The moving company had called the day he and the boys were leaving Chicago. They’d promised to have the delivery here in twenty-four hours... That was two days ago. Apparently a bad snowstorm had caused the delay. He made a mental note to call once they were back at the hotel. “I’m sorry—how rude of me. These are my sons, Tyler and Jordan.”

The freckled twins smiled at Mrs. Buser. “We like living in the hotel... We don’t have to make up the bed.” Jordan giggled as his cheeks flushed.

The adults broke out in laughter.

“Come to think of it, I could use a week or two in a hotel.” The elderly woman tightened the strings on her apron. “Ever since my dear husband passed, I haven’t had a moment’s rest. But really, I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

“You should hire some help, Mrs. Buser. At least you could take a day off now and then.” Joy voiced her concern.

“I rest on the day of the Lord—that’s enough. Besides, running this place has been one of my greatest joys.” She glanced at Nick and then Joy. “Seeing the two of you growing up and then falling in love—”

Nick looked toward the boys, relieved to see they had wandered over to the snack aisle.

The elderly woman’s face flushed. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make either of you uncomfortable.” She paused and placed her hand to her heart. “It’s just... I always thought you two would get married.”

Joy’s face reddened as she adjusted her purse strap on her slender shoulder. “Well, I’d better get going. Tell the boys I’ll see them in class on Monday.”

Before he had a chance to respond, she skidded out the door. Relief settled in when he heard her car pull away. He wanted to talk with her. She deserved an explanation as well as an apology. But not here—not now.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said anything.”

The guilt the woman wore on her face caused his heart to squeeze. “Please, don’t worry about it. I know people in this town will have a lot of questions about my family’s sudden departure and why I’ve returned,” Nick said.

Mrs. Buser rested her warm wrinkled hand on Nick’s arm. He turned to her. “Joy is the only person in this town who deserves an explanation. As for the rest of us, it’s really none of our business.”

Nick swallowed the lump in his throat. “My father loved this town. The hardest thing he ever had to do, apart from burying my mother, was to uproot me and my sister and leave a lot of unanswered questions. He’s gone now and it’s time for my family to start a new life.”

A silence lingered before Mrs. Buser cleared her throat. “So, where do you and the boys plan on living? And your wife?”

“My wife passed away. It’s just me and my sons now.”

“I’m so sorry.”

“I appreciate that. We’re doing okay. I found a quaint little house with a wonderful wraparound porch located in Whisper Hill.” Before leaving Chicago, Nick had searched available rentals online for several weeks.

He took note of the half smile that parted her lips. “What are you grinning about, Mrs. Buser?”

“Nothing, really—it’s just kind of a coincidence.”

He scratched his temple. “What is?”

She placed her hand on his forearm. “Why, that’s where Joy lives, dear.”

Nick couldn’t believe his ears. When he’d made the decision to move back to Whispering Slopes, he knew he’d see Joy. She loved this town and the chances of her ever moving away were slim, but never in his wildest of dreams would he have imagined he’d be living so close to his first love. He wanted a new life. It was just him and his boys now, and that was the way it had to remain. He’d had his chance to share his life with someone, but he’d blown it—big-time. He didn’t deserve another partner. But didn’t his boys deserve the opportunity to grow up with a mother? Should they suffer because of his past mistakes?

Chapter Two

Joy drummed her fingers against the granite countertop, willing her teakettle to hurry up and whistle already. It was Saturday morning and she’d been awake since four o’clock and had already completed her early run. Even a long, hot shower couldn’t clear the thoughts of Nick and his boys that had whirled through her head all night. It was bad enough that in two days she’d be working across the hall from Nick, but the news of her first and only love interviewing for the principal position drove her out of her down feather bed. Could Nick take away the only dream she had left, to sit behind the desk in the same office where her father once worked? But more important, a chance to fill the void of being told she’d never have biological children of her own. She’d gone into teaching to be near children—have an impact on their lives, but as principal, she’d have the opportunity to work with and protect all of the children in the school, not only those in her classroom.

The sound of the kettle’s whistle pulled her from her thoughts. She needed to keep her focus. Today she had planned to study for the online exam coming up later in the week. She also wanted to do some preparation for her interview. She’d worked hard to earn her master’s degree and she was getting closer to fulfilling that goal.

A diesel engine rumbled out front, rattling her porcelain salt and pepper shakers. Joy pushed herself up from the kitchen table and headed toward the bay window in the front of her house. She flipped open the plantation shutters to take a peek. Through the planks she spotted a large truck across the street. The logo that ran along the side of the vehicle read Cross Country Movers.

Moments later a Lexus SUV pulled into the driveway. That must be the new tenant. The Clarks’ rental property had been empty for the past six months. She kept her gaze on the vehicle.

Her stomach turned upside down when she spied two identical boys and a caramel-colored puppy bounding from the SUV.

Heat blanketed her face. She raced to her bedroom and yanked on a pair of faded jeans. Stripping off her pink terry cloth robe, she grabbed a wool sweater balled up in her favorite comfy chair. The cold wood floor reminded her she’d need to put on some shoes. Reaching for her running shoes, she jammed her feet inside. Once dressed, she ran a comb through her tangled locks and headed out the front door.

Outside, her feet crunched on the early morning frost as she inhaled the cold air deep into her lungs. She crossed the street and ran up the sidewalk toward the front porch, her heart pounding against her ribs as she took the steps two at a time. She found the front door slightly cracked open, but even in her frantic state, she thought best to knock. “Hello... Anyone in there?”

Giggles sounded through the doorway. “Miss Kelliher!”

Dressed in matching blue-and-white-striped polo sweaters and jeans, the twins skidded to a stop. “How did you know we live here?” Tyler asked as a smile blossomed.

She couldn’t have missed the huge truck that rumbled into the neighborhood. “I saw you pull up. My house is right over there.” She pointed over her shoulder.

Immediately the boys began to jump up and down, celebrating the fact that they were neighbors.

“This is so awesome! Our favorite teacher ever is right across the street. We can visit you every day!”

Her anger eased as Tyler’s words crept inside her wounded heart. But how could she ever live so close to Nick and his boys? A constant reminder of what could have been and what would never be because she was broken...unable to do what should come naturally to a woman—bring new life into the world.

“What’s all the commotion?” Nick came up behind his sons, dressed in black jeans and a Northwestern University sweatshirt. As always, he looked startlingly handsome.

Who looks that good when they’re moving? Joy’s heart fluttered for a split second, until she remembered the reason for her visit. She folded her arms across her chest. “What are you doing here?”

Nick placed his hands on his sons’ shoulders. “This is our new home. We’re renting now, but the owners are thinking about selling.”

This was getting more unbelievable by the second.

“Mrs. Buser mentioned yesterday that we’d be neighbors. I guess it’s true what they say about it being a small world.” He scratched the side of his head and crinkled his brow.

Neighbors? What was that old saying she’d heard? Good fences made good neighbors—or something like that. That was it... She’d build a fence as high as her homeowners association would allow. She was president—she should know the restrictions. She’d have to check the covenants. Even still, building a wall around her property wouldn’t keep Nick out of her heart. “But this is my neighborhood. I moved here after college.”

“She lives right over there, Daddy,” Tyler announced, pointing in the direction of Joy’s one-story ranch home. “Isn’t that cool? Maybe she’ll invite us over for dinner sometime.”

This definitely wasn’t cool. Dinner? Absolutely not. How would she avoid Nick when he’d be just outside her door? At that moment she’d give anything to have the old neighbors and their barking Jack Russell back in the house.

“I know I’m probably the last person you want as a neighbor, but we’ll just have to make the best of it. This was the only house available that was close to the school.”

Right...the school, where he’d be working. “Yes, I suppose the principal wants to be nearby, of course.”

Nick’s shoulders stiffened. “How did you know I was applying for the position?”

She tilted her head toward the boys. “They mentioned it yesterday while we were out on the playground.”

Joy felt a tug on her sweater and looked down at Jordan.

“I’m glad you live so close, Miss Kellihuh.” He blushed. “If I get stuck on my homework I can just come ovuh for your help.”

Her pulse relaxed when she looked into Jordan’s eyes. “You’re welcome anytime, sweetie.” She turned her attention to Nick. “I’m sorry I came charging over here. I guess I was kind of caught off guard...or maybe I’ve had too much coffee.”

Nick nodded and cleared his throat. “Speaking of coffee, I just started a pot. You must be freezing... Why don’t you come inside?”

Practically frozen and not wanting Jordan to think she was still upset, she ignored what her head was telling her and stepped inside. “So you’ve already unpacked your coffee maker?” She smiled.

“Of course. I have my priorities.” Nick winked.

As the two movers scurried past Joy, carrying boxes marked “boys’ room,” she scanned the open floor plan of the two-story home. She’d only been inside a few times when the previous owners had been out of town and she’d offered to care for their dog.

“Do you want to come see our room, Miss Kelliher?” Tyler reached for her hand. “Daddy bought us bunk beds that look like race cars. They got delivered yesterday while we were at school.”

“Let’s get that coffee first.” Nick headed toward the kitchen.

A whimper sounded behind the closed laundry room door as Joy and the boys trekked toward the aroma of the freshly brewed beverage. “Is that your puppy I hear?”

“How did you know about Maverick?” Jordan asked.

“I saw him when you got out of the car. That’s a great name.”

“It’s from a TV show back in the old days. My daddy likes to watch the reruns.” Tyler approached the door.

Joy had a vivid memory of her and Nick on his parents’ sectional sofa, watching old Western movies with an oversize bowl of popcorn sitting between them.

Tyler glanced toward his father. “Is it okay if I let him out, Daddy?”

“Sure—why not? But remember, the movers have the front door opened, so keep an eye on him. We don’t want him to run outside without his leash.”

Tyler pushed open the door and out sprang a tiny golden nugget of energy. Maverick raced straight to Joy’s feet and jumped up and down as though his big paws were springs.

Kneeling down, she extended her hand, which he immediately covered with sloppy, wet kisses. Her heart melted. “He’s adorable. What breed is Maverick?”

Nick reached down and stroked the puppy’s head. “A labradoodle, and, boy, is he ever a handful. The boys were a little apprehensive when I told them we were moving. I thought Mav would help with the transition.”

“He likes you, Miss Kellihuh.” Jordan smiled.

Growing up, Joy and Faith had always wanted a dog, but being raised by a grandfather with severe allergies had made that impossible. She scooped Maverick up in her arms and nuzzled his face against her own. “If you ever need a sitter, I’m definitely available.” Obviously the adorable fur ball had impaired her thinking. She couldn’t pet-sit for the animal. She needed to stay as far away from Nick as possible.

“Excuse me, Mr. Capello, but where would you like the piano?”

The group turned to the short, muscular man standing down the hall.

“How about underneath the window in the living room—is that okay, Jordan?”

The boy nodded. “That’s good.”

When the mover scurried out the door, Joy turned to Jordan, who seemed more quiet than usual. “Are you the piano player in the family?”

Jordan’s cheeks flushed. “Do you think it’s only for guls?”

When Tyler silenced a giggle, Joy knew that Jordan had probably been teased about playing the piano. “Of course it’s not. There are a lot of well-known pianists who are men. I actually play, too, and I give lessons.”

“Weally? My mommy used to play.” Jordan glanced at the hardwood floor, looking as if he’d lost his best friend.

Joy noticed Nick’s jaw tense. “Boys, we better put Maverick back in the laundry room. We don’t want him to get in the movers’ way.”

Her heart broke for Jordan and Tyler, but also for Nick. One day your life was perfect, complete with a family, and then it was taken from you. Although she wanted to keep her relationship with Nick strictly business, Jordan tugged on her heartstrings. “You just let me know if you’d like for me to give you some lessons.” She tipped her thumb under the boy’s chin. “I’d better get home. You all have a lot of unpacking to do. Besides, I’ve had enough coffee this morning. I’ll see you all on Monday.”

As she walked toward her empty home, thoughts of the two freckle-faced boys and the rambunctious puppy flooded her mind. Nick’s family. Her heart squeezed. It was as though she was seeing a flash of her life as it could have been. It would have been a wonderful life. When she reached for the icy doorknob on her empty home, she couldn’t help but wonder if it would be that easy to keep things on a professional level.

* * *

Nick watched Joy through the front window as she headed back to her home—directly across the street from his own. What were the odds? He should have found out where she lived in Whispering Slopes before making the move. Of course, it was too late now. For better or worse they were going to be neighbors and he’d just have to do the best he could to keep his distance. With the boys and Maverick it could prove to be a challenge, but he was determined to make a fresh start for his family.

He gazed around their new home and smiled. The oversize living room would serve as the family room, where they’d watch television, play games and enjoy being together. Something he hadn’t made much time for while living and teaching in Chicago. That would change. He might not deserve the opportunity to be a better husband, but he sure would be the best father for his boys.

Nick released a slow and easy breath. He’d made the right decision by moving here, hadn’t he? But one thing he hadn’t expected when he packed up their old house in Chicago was for all the guilt he carried about his wife to make the move with him. Silly. Why would he think a new location could erase the past?

“Daddy?”

Nick turned to see Jordan standing behind him. He reached for his son’s hand and guided him toward the sofa the movers had placed in the living room earlier. “What is it, son?” he asked, lifting his boy up on his lap. His stomach knotted realizing soon the time would come where moments like this would become a distant memory.

“Do you think it would be okay if I asked Miss Kellihuh to give me piano lessons?”

Nick couldn’t help but notice the hesitation in Jordan’s question. “Why do you think there’d be anything wrong with that?”

The little boy bit down on his quivering lower lip. “Well, since Mommy used to teach me, I didn’t know if she’d like that. I wouldn’t want to disappoint huh.”

Nick’s heart ached for his son. At the age of three, Jordan had been drawn to the piano like a hummingbird to fresh nectar. Whenever his mother had played, he’d toddle to her side. She’d lift him up on the bench and he’d listen while she played. He’d giggle when she played “Three Blind Mice” and get sleepy when she’d play the soothing sound of “Brahms’s Lullaby.” Although self-taught, his wife, Michelle, had a natural talent to create beautiful melodies.

“I think it would make your mother really proud to know you want to continue learning how to play her favorite instrument.”

Jordan squirmed in his father’s lap before resting his head against Nick’s chest. “I miss huh, Daddy.” He wiped away a stray tear that escaped from his sad eyes. “Will I always feel this way?”

The million-dollar question—Nick had asked himself this daily. Some days were tougher than others, but the sadness cast a shadow over his heart that never seemed to fade. “I think we’ll always miss her, but one day, it won’t hurt as much. Maybe we’ll be able to think of your mommy and smile as we remember the good times we had with her.” Nick wondered how soon that day would arrive.

* * *

Early Monday morning, Nick and the boys snaked their way through the line inside of the school’s cafeteria. A free breakfast was available to each student, if they didn’t have time to eat at home or if money was tight for the family. This was a program Nick fully endorsed. He firmly believed that students were more focused when they started their day with a healthy breakfast. He had to admit, though, there was something special about cooking the morning meal for his boys in the comfort of their home.

“Can I have a doughnut, Daddy?”

Not exactly the meal he wanted for his sons. “Yes, but I want you to eat some eggs and fruit first.”

Tyler crinkled his nose before scooping some scrambled eggs onto his plate.

The sounds of children chattering filled the room. Nick had missed being in a school. After his wife passed away, he’d taken a leave of absence from his teaching position. It felt good to be back in this environment. This was where he belonged.

With their trays loaded, Nick and the twins headed toward an empty table next to a window. The bright sunlight beamed across the room, providing some added warmth—a perfect winter day.

Jordan took a bite of his banana and his eyes popped. “Look—there’s Miss Kellihuh!”

“Who’s that with her, Daddy?” Tyler eyed the little girl holding Joy’s hand.

“I’m not sure.” Nick turned and watched Joy glide across the room. She smiled, stopping at each table to greet the children.

“Miss Kellihuh! Come sit with us,” Jordan shouted.

Nick took note of Jordan’s uncharacteristic outburst. It was unusual for him to want to draw attention to himself. His face exploded with happiness as he bounced up and down in his chair.

Dressed in black pants and a white angora sweater, Joy approached their table. Her hair was twisted into a bun with a few loose tendrils framing her face. “Good morning, boys. This is my niece, Bella Carlson.” She turned to the twins. “Bella, this is Jordan and Tyler.”

“Twins—cool!” Bella stepped closer. “My mommy and Aunt Joy are twins.”

“That’s cool, too,” Tyler said.

“Bella, this is Mr. Capello. He’ll be your new teacher, since he’s taking over Mrs. Murray’s class while she’s out on maternity leave.”

Nick extended his hand. “It’s nice to meet you, Bella.”

“You’re tall.” Bella giggled.

Joy glanced at the twins’ plates. “Are you both eating a nice healthy breakfast?”

“I’m having eggs and a doughnut for dessert,” Tyler answered before taking another bite.

“Can you guys come and sit with us?” Jordan asked in a hushed tone. “I wanted to ask you something, Miss Kellihuh.”

Joy glanced toward Nick as if to seek his approval.

Nick stood and pulled out the empty chair. “Yes, please, join us.”

Bella took the vacant seat next to Tyler. Joy settled in the chair next to Nick and folded her hands together before placing them on the table. A sweet fragrance tickled his nose.

Joy leaned toward Jordan. “What is it you wanted to ask me, sweetie?”

Nick watched as his son’s cheeks flushed before he glanced down toward the ground and then quickly looked at his teacher. “Do you think you could give me piano lessons?”

“Well... I suppose that would be okay.” She turned to Nick. “Would it be all right with you?”

Until he received an offer for the principal position, he’d prefer for his boys to have as little interaction with Joy as possible outside of school, but he knew how happy it would make Jordan. Although both boys missed their mother, Jordan seemed to be having a more difficult time coping with her death. It was no wonder he’d become attached to Joy so quickly. And why wouldn’t he? She was compassionate and she obviously loved the children. He couldn’t help but wonder if she wanted children of her own one day.

Nick nodded. “Yes. We discussed it already. We will certainly work around your schedule, and of course, you’ll be compensated fairly.” He’d keep it strictly a business relationship and somehow find a way to make himself scarce while she gave Jordan his lessons.

“Yippee! Thank you, Miss Kellihuh.” Jordan jumped from his chair and hugged Joy around her waist.

Nick’s heart tightened. His son longed for a mother figure. But Jordan’s father had failed once at being a husband. Did he deserve a second chance?

Three hours later, Nick had completed his morning lessons. While his class was outside for recess, he headed to the teachers’ lounge for a much-needed cup of coffee.

The accent lamps on each round table provided a warm glow, rather than the bright fluorescent lighting that filled the school. It was an inviting atmosphere. Two teachers occupied a table in the corner but neither looked up as he stepped inside, so he strolled in silence to the coffee bar.

Normally, he’d stop to talk with his fellow coworkers, but the twosome appeared to be involved in a heated political discussion. That was a topic he avoided talking about with friends and fellow teachers. He filled a large mug with the piping hot brew before adding a splash of cream. Giving it three quick stirs, he scanned the room and decided to take the table near the window that looked out onto the playground.

He settled into the chair and reached for his backpack. He planned to use his break to do some preparing for his upcoming interview. Glancing out the window, he smiled when he saw his boys taking turns pushing Bella on the swing. She was a sweet little girl who he believed would have a positive influence on Jordan and Tyler.

Moments later, the sound of footsteps tapping along the tiled floor took his attention from his notes. Joy made eye contact, gave a half smile, but then quickly looked away and headed to an empty table across from where he sat.

Nick wasn’t surprised by her reaction. The circumstances surrounding his sudden departure had upset her. He got that, but they still had to work together. Plus, she’d be giving Jordan piano lessons. He owed her an explanation so they could try to move forward and put the past behind them.

He exhaled a deep breath and pushed away from the table. As he approached Joy, she never looked his way. Maybe she thought he was going back for more coffee.

“Joy?”

She flinched, appearing startled by his presence. “I’m sorry. I didn’t know you were standing there.” She closed the notebook resting on the table.

“You saw me when you came in. Why didn’t you come over?”

“I apologize. I’ve got a lot on my mind.”

“I’m sure you do, and no doubt a lot of it has to do with my return to town.” The last thing in the world he wanted to do was to cause her more pain. “With us teaching across the hall from each other and living in the same neighborhood, it’s obvious we’re going to be seeing a lot of each other.”

Joy looked up and caught his gaze. “Don’t forget I’ll be teaching your son how to play the piano, too.”

Nick pulled out a chair. “Do you mind if I sit for a minute?”

She shrugged her shoulders.

Since her shrug was more than she’d given him earlier, he took a seat. “I wanted to thank you for agreeing to teach Jordan. He’s really excited.”

A smile parted her lips. “He’s a sweet boy, Nick. He’ll do well with lessons. He’s the perfect student—eager to learn.”

“The piano is special to him for many reasons, so thanks.” He started to get up from the table, but then slid back into the chair. “For what it’s worth, I wanted to call you after my family left. You might not believe me, but it’s the truth. My father didn’t want me to have any contact with friends from Whispering Slopes. It’s a long story and one I hope to share with you, but he did it to protect my mother. I wrote to you. But when you didn’t answer, I assumed you were too upset with me and had moved on. Years later, I learned from my father that he’d intercepted all of my letters from the mailbox, so they were never delivered to you.”

Joy slid her notebook into her bag. “I can’t talk about this here, Nick. Please, let’s forget everything that happened in the past. It will make things much easier.”

The pain in her eyes was more than he could bear. “Will it? Do you really think pretending we don’t have a history will make things right again?” He ran his hand down the side of his cleanly shaven face.

“No, but if we’re going to maintain our professionalism, I don’t think we have a choice.” She stood from her chair and reached for her bag. “Oh, I almost forgot. Rehearsal will begin tomorrow afternoon. We’ll practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays.”

His left brow arched. “What are we rehearsing?”

“Didn’t Mr. Jacobson talk with you earlier?”

Nick shook his head. “I haven’t seen him this morning.”

“He wants the first-and second-grade classes to perform a play together for the school’s talent week—Little Red Riding Hood.” She turned on her heel and glided out the door as a soft floral fragrance trailed behind her.

Nick took note of the time and headed to his table to grab his things. A play—with her class? Unbelievable. It was as though God was doing everything in His power to throw them together. Had He orchestrated this second chance for Nick and Joy?

Chapter Three

Tuesday afternoon, Joy sat in the third row of the school’s auditorium. The students had been released from school and those participating in the play were outside enjoying a brief recess with the teaching assistants before rehearsal. Earlier in the day, she’d received an email from Nick requesting they meet privately before the first rehearsal. Her stomach fluttered as she wondered what he wanted to talk about. Of course, in her heart she knew. The past. Something she’d like to bury deep inside the earth’s core. Until his return to Whispering Slopes, she’d done a pretty good job at covering up her secret, but that hadn’t kept it from festering like a cut that wouldn’t heal.

Decisions have consequences. Growing up, that was what her grandmother always told her. Her decision the night she waited for Nick by the pond had forever changed her as a person. How could she ever share this with Nick?

The squeak of the door from the back of the room announced his arrival. She swallowed hard and turned. He strolled down the aisle of the auditorium dressed in khaki relaxed-fit pants and a red pullover sweater. That was always his color. It looked great with his close-cut dark hair. She pushed out of the wooden chair and braced herself.

“Thanks for meeting me.” He shoved his hands into his pockets. “Since we’re going to be working so closely together on the play, I thought it would be a good idea to clear the air.”

“That’s an interesting metaphor. From what I recall of the night, you didn’t show up. There’s no misunderstanding in that.”

“You’re right.” He motioned toward the chairs. “Can we sit down and talk?”

She sounded defensive—she knew that—but what choice did she have? If she let down her guard, he’d find out everything. She couldn’t allow that to happen. “I’m listening.”

Nick leaned back in the chair and crossed his right leg over his left knee. “Do you remember when my mother fell down the stairs and injured her back?” he asked with his hands clasped together.

Joy’s thoughts drifted to that late autumn afternoon. The two of them had been studying at the dining room table when they heard a thumping sound and then cries for help. They’d raced into the foyer and had discovered his mother at the bottom of the stairs, the contents of the laundry basket strewn all over the pinewood floor. She couldn’t move.

“Yes, I remember. She went to the hospital for several weeks. Didn’t she have two or three surgeries?”

“Yes, three.” He nodded. “Unfortunately, the surgeries didn’t give her any relief from the excruciating pain she lived with on a daily basis.”

Last year, while lifting some heavy boxes in her classroom, Joy had strained her back. The pain she’d experienced lasted for several days. She couldn’t imagine the ongoing pain Mrs. Capello must have dealt with. “That’s terrible... I had no idea.”

“No one really did. She stayed isolated in her room for months. Although she was the one in tremendous pain, it also took a heavy toll on my father and their marriage.”

“I’m sure it was hard on everyone...including yourself.”

Nick nodded. “Her doctor kept prescribing higher doses of pain medications. The more she took, the more she needed. One night, I was in bed and I heard her crying through the wall. My father had been out of town on business, so I got up to check on her. I’ll never forget the look of despair blanketing her face.” He paused and raked his hand across the back of his neck. “When I asked her if she needed anything she told me she wanted it all to end.”

Her stomach twisted. Mrs. Capello was such a sweet and loving woman. She’d opened her home to Joy and treated her like a daughter. Joy had grown up without a mother of her own, and the woman’s kindness had always meant so much to her.

“I’m so sorry, Nick. I wish you’d told me how bad things were.”

“I almost did—a couple of times. But in a way, spending time with you was an escape from the trouble at home. I wanted to keep it that way and not bring my problems into our relationship.”

“Yes, but healthy relationships involve sharing problems with each other.” Of course, she could never reveal the events that occurred after he’d left.

He leaned forward and turned toward her. “Believe me, that’s a lesson I’ve learned much too late in life.”

Joy’s eyebrows arched. It sounded as though there was more about his past she didn’t know—just like he didn’t know about her own. Perhaps that was all for the best.

“Anyway, that’s the reason why he moved us—to protect my mother. The abuse of painkillers got more out of control and she’d threatened to hurt herself several times. My father reached out to a friend of his from college who worked as an addiction specialist practicing in Chicago. He offered to accept my mother into a new study program. It started the following week. We left on a Friday night and she was admitted on Monday. She stayed at the facility for six months.”

How could she be upset? His father had loved his mother and had no other options. Still, Nick never came back for her—the wound was still raw.

He reached for her hand. “Once I found out the letters had never been sent, it was too late. My circumstances had changed.”

All she could do was nod and pull her hand away. Let him talk, but keep your distance. She couldn’t allow herself to get close to him again. He was back to steal her dream. Besides, everything had changed and she’d never want him to know that she wasn’t like most women.

“My father’s reputation in the community was important to him. He cared what people thought about him and his family. He didn’t want others to look down on his wife or him.”

“You could have trusted me. I wouldn’t have said anything to anyone.” Even as she spoke the words, an understanding of Mr. Capello’s reasons settled in. She had secrets of her own she wanted to keep buried.

“I know, but my father didn’t. His mind wasn’t in the right place back then, and he wanted to protect her privacy.”

“After the six months, did your mother recover?” He could have come back to her then.

He ran his hand down the side of his face. “You’re wondering why I didn’t return after she finished rehab, aren’t you?”

Her left brow arched.

“In the beginning, since I didn’t know my letters were never mailed, I assumed you never wanted to talk to me again. I was afraid to come back and discover that you’d moved on—maybe married and started a family with someone else...someone other than me.” He pulled his eyes off her and stared at the ground. “After I promised to spend my life with you, I abandoned you. You had every right to move on, but I guess I just didn’t want to know if you had. Then I met the boys’ mother, and, well...too much time passed.”

If only he knew. Any chance of a relationship with anyone had ended that night. She’d been betrayed on so many different levels. How could she ever trust another man? But really, what did it matter? No man would ever want her now.

She swallowed to loosen the lump lodged in her throat. “I appreciate you telling me why you left. If you don’t want to talk about it anymore, I understand.”

Sadness pooled in his eyes. “No, you asked about her recovery. After the treatment, she was good for a year or so. When her back problems returned, she went to a new doctor. Just like the others, he overprescribed pills. Once again, she was in and out of rehab. I was relieved to be away at college, although I felt bad I wasn’t there to support my father and my sister, Janie. It was just too hard. I had to get out of that house and build a life for myself with Michelle. That’s her name—was her name. I tried to come home from school as much as I could, but it was too painful to see what had happened to my family. Janie tried to help our dad, but she really struggled after our mother passed. Then my father slipped into a deep depression.” He paused and exhaled a heavy breath. “I suggested counseling, but he didn’t see the point. When my mother’s kidneys started to fail due to the years of drug abuse, I actually prayed for God to take her. She’d given up on life years before. The only hope my father had of salvaging his life was if he no longer felt responsible for her.”

Joy had no words. She wished she’d known. Perhaps there would have been something she could have done to help the Capello family. If she had, would both of their lives have turned out differently?

He ran his hand through his hair. “It’s hard to believe. Sometimes it feels like a lifetime ago, but other times, if feels like yesterday.”

“The pain still feels new,” Joy added.

He caught her gaze and held it. “Exactly. I suppose that’s how it feels for you.”

She remained silent.

“After my mother died, things got worse for my father. He started to drink heavily. Then he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and passed away within a few months.”

“I’m sorry, Nick...really, I am. He was a good man.”

The two sat in silence for the next five minutes. “I need a little air before the children come inside from recess,” she said.

He nodded. “I think I’ll go and grab a quick cup of coffee.”

Once outside, her thoughts drifted to Nick’s father. The poor man had lived a life full of constant heartache and pain. She couldn’t help but wonder if she was headed down that same road.

* * *

After sipping his beverage in the teachers’ lounge and receiving a phone call from a friend in Chicago, Nick inhaled a deep breath before entering the school’s auditorium. Part of him was relieved he’d spoken to Joy and told her why his family had left town, but something told him she had secrets she was holding on to as well. Her eyes had a sadness that didn’t exist when they were younger.

“Daddy! We’ve been waiting for you.” Tyler raced to the door and flung his arms around Nick’s waist.

He spotted Joy up on the stage, laughing with a group of children. She looked radiant.

“I’m sorry—I got held up on a call.” He took his son’s hand and strolled down the aisle.

“I sure hope I get picked to play the Big Bad Wolf,” Tyler declared.

Nick stepped up on the stage. “I’m late—sorry,” he said to Joy, who appeared busy scribbling notes on a clipboard. With her hair now pulled back in a ponytail, she reminded him of the young girl he’d fallen in love with. He shook off the thought. Their relationship was anything but the same. It could never be more. Besides, now they were just rivals.

“No worries. I was letting the kids know there are many other parts besides the leads. We need to cast the animals, trees, mushrooms, and we’ll also need help with costumes and lighting.”

Tyler stepped forward. “What about the wolf, Miss Kelliher? You forgot about that.”

Nick couldn’t help but notice Joy’s smile fading.

“What’s wrong, Joy?”

“Nothing. I’m fine.”

She didn’t look fine. Her voice shook and she appeared pale.

“So, raise your hand if you’d like to play the wolf,” Nick called, scanning the group for volunteers.

“First, we have to cast the lead,” Joy said.

He didn’t want to argue with her. “Okay, so who wants to play Little Red Riding Hood?”

When no hands went up, Nick looked at Bella. “I think you’d be perfect in the role.”

Her cheeks flushed. “Are you sure?” Bella asked in a less-than-confident tone.

“I’m positive. What about you, Miss Kelliher? Don’t you agree?”

Joy smiled. “I think she’d be perfect.”

Bella kicked her tennis shoe against the wooden stage. “What if I can’t learn all my lines?”

“I can help you.” Tyler stepped forward.

Nick smiled at his son. He always liked to help others. “I think that’s a good idea, Tyler.” He glanced at Bella. “You’ll do great, so don’t worry.”

“Can I play the wolf, Daddy?” Tyler tugged on Nick’s arm.

“We have to give everyone an opportunity, son. If there are others interested we’ll have to conduct some tryouts. Do you agree, Mrs. Kelliher?”

Joy nodded. “It only seems fair,” she answered before turning her attention back to the clipboard.

Nick couldn’t help wondering why Joy seemed so disengaged. He knew she loved the children, but something told him she wasn’t into this play. He pointed to the far side of the stage. “Anyone who’d like the role of the wolf, please step over there.”

Tyler skipped across the floor, making it clear he was interested, but he was the only one.

Nick glanced over the group of children, all of whom stared at the ground, unresponsive. “Okay, then. Tyler, by default, it looks like you’ve got the part.”

“Yippee!” His son ran toward Joy. “Did you hear, Miss Kelliher? I get to be the wolf.”

“Yes, I heard... Congratulations.” She quickly turned her attention to her clipboard again.

An hour and a half later the children had been picked up by their parents. While the twins and Bella acted out various routines on the stage, Nick was alone with Joy for the second time this afternoon. Sitting in the middle of the auditorium, they mapped out their rehearsal calendar for the next week.

“With the play scheduled in a few weeks, Mr. Jacobson isn’t giving us much time to practice, is he?” Nick glanced at Joy, who only nodded. She’d said very little to him since the children had gone home. He’d noticed she’d been less than enthusiastic about Tyler’s part in the play.

“So, I take it you’re not really an admirer of the Big Bad Wolf.” He turned in her direction. “I don’t really remember you being afraid when we were kids,” he joked.

Her shoulders stiffened. “What makes you say that?” She fingered her gold chain.

“I don’t know. It seems like you got a little tense earlier whenever he was mentioned.”

“I just wish Mr. Jacobson would have picked another fairy tale, that’s all.” She stared toward the stage.

Nick thought best to change the subject. For some reason she wasn’t a fan of “Little Red Riding Hood,” but hey, he never cared for “Rapunzel.”

“I wanted to apologize if Jordan put you in an uncomfortable position yesterday by asking about the piano lessons.”

“Of course he didn’t. I had offered, remember?” Joy removed her reading glasses and placed them on top of her head. “Are you okay with it?”

Nick worked his jaw back and forth. “I want Jordan to be happy.”

“You seemed somewhat agitated the other morning when he brought up his mother and the lessons. Do you ever talk to the boys about her?”

He knew he hadn’t been a good husband, but now he was a bad father. Was that what she was implying?

Nick squirmed in his seat. “I don’t want to talk about this now.”

Joy blew out a breath. “That could be a big part of your problem.”

What? Did he have a problem when it came to his boys? He didn’t think so. “I’m not understanding, Joy.”

“Your son needs to express his feelings. You need to open the door for conversations with Jordan and Tyler. It’s important they’re allowed to talk about their mother.”

Nick felt cornered. She did think he was a bad father. “The last time I looked, you weren’t a parent, Joy. So please, don’t lecture me on how to talk with my sons.”

The murmurs of the children on stage seeped into Nick’s ears as Joy remained silent. As soon as he’d spoken the words, regret washed over him. “I’m sorry... That was a low blow.”

Joy folded her arms tight around her body. “No, you’re right. I don’t have children of my own, but I do have experience with those who have had tragedy in their life. Any professional will tell you that brushing it under the rug and ignoring the incident won’t make it go away. It’s not too late, Nick—trust me.”

“But what if it is?” It was certainly too late for him and his wife. How would Joy react if she found out the truth...that his own children had known their mother was sick, but he hadn’t? Or had he chosen to ignore it? How pathetic.

Nick flinched when he felt the tender touch of her hand on his own.

“Please, don’t do this to yourself, Nick. You can’t change the past, but moving forward, you can do things differently.”

He fought back the tears attempting to release. “I don’t even know where to begin. Sometimes when I see the boys watching their friends with their mothers, the pain in their eyes makes me feel like the worst father in the world.” This was exactly the reason why he had to get the job of principal—all of his time invested back in Chicago, studying and pushing himself at the expense of his family, would have been for nothing if he couldn’t advance his career.

“You can begin by just talking to them and reminiscing about your wife. When I was their age, I loved when my grandmother and grandfather would tell me and Faith stories about our parents. It made the pain of losing them more bearable. Plus, since we’d been so young when they died, hearing about them made my mother and father more real...if that makes sense.”

The two sat in silence for a few minutes as they watched Bella and the boys dancing around on the stage.

“Yes, it does.” Nick cleared his throat and turned toward Joy. “I apologize for dumping all of that on you, but I think I’m beginning to see your point.”

“And what’s that?”

“Well, I feel a little better talking with you, so maybe if I try it with Jordan and Tyler, they’ll start to feel good, too.”

Joy laughed. “I promise you, it will help, but as for an apology, it’s not necessary. You’ve suffered a tremendous loss and raising children on your own can’t be easy.”

It was the hardest thing he’d ever done apart from burying his wife. “Well, I won’t lie—it’s not, but having good friends helps. Jordan and I would really like for you to go ahead with the lessons.”

A smile parted her lips. “I’d like that, too. It’s nice to see a child interested in music at such a young age.”

“His interest is all Michelle’s doing. She loved the piano and encouraged both boys to play. Tyler just didn’t have any interest. He prefers any sport that involves a ball over music.” Nick smiled.

“When I become principal, I’d really like to expand the music department,” Joy said. “I think it supports all learning. I’ve read studies that indicate musical training can physically develop the left portion of the brain. That’s the side involved with processing language.” She removed her glasses from her head and slid them on when her phone pinged.

Nick wasn’t sure if he’d heard her clearly or not. “What? You’re interviewing for the position?”

Joy forced a laughed. “Of course I am. I had assumed you already knew. In fact, according to Mr. Jacobson, I’m your only competition. It’s been my dream to fill my father’s shoes by becoming principal. I’ve been preparing for this job for years. Plus, it won’t be long before I have my master’s degree.”

“Well, I already have a master’s.” Nick pushed his shoulders back.

“That’s a nonissue.”

He shook his head. “Probably not to the school board when they’re determining who is better qualified to hold the job.”

“I’ll have it before the end of May,” she declared as she sprang to her feet with a face the color of a summertime cherry. “I think we’re done here. I’ve got to get Bella home for dinner.” She hugged her purse close to her stomach.

Nick sat in the chair as he watched Joy march down the aisle of the auditorium. Taking the steps two at a time, she reached for Bella’s hand and exited the platform faster than an actor with stage fright.

He shook his head. He should have known better and kept his mouth shut. A few minutes earlier, he thought maybe they could be friends again and move on from the past. If he was honest with himself, there was nothing he wanted more. But that ship had sailed long ago. Actually...sunk was more like it. But he’d come back to Whispering Slopes for a new start for him and his boys. One way or another, he’d eventually right this ship, but in the meantime, he knew there’d be plenty of choppy waters ahead, especially with both competing for the principal position. One thing he knew for sure: he was determined to get this job. Otherwise, all of the long hours and hard work he’d put into obtaining his advanced degree would have been for nothing. But then again, getting this job wouldn’t change the past and bring back Michelle.

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