‡‡
Mika stared out the kitchen window that overlooked the backyard and said one more prayer of thanks. Alex was outside in the morning sunshine playing with Henry, his face wreathed in smiles.
It turned out after a meal and bath the dog was actually quite cute, although it was a mystery what breed he was. From the size of his paws he was going to be big but she didn’t mind. Alex could play rough now and then and it was good that the canine was of sturdy construction.
A pair of strong warm arms wrapped around her from behind and she leaned back, luxuriating in the knowledge that she was loved and cared for, her son was safe at home, and all was right in her world.
“I put the breakfast dishes in the dishwasher and folded the towels in the dryer.” Cal’s sexy voice crooned in her ear, and although the words were quite mundane her body responded as if he’d paid her the most extravagant compliment. “Is there anything else I can do to help?”
She’d had an emotional night, barely able to sleep after what had happened, so he was spoiling her today which really wasn’t fair. He had held her all night long so he hadn’t rested much either.
“You’ve done more than your share. I really appreciate it. I’m just going to sit here all day and watch Alex play. I suppose you think that’s silly.”
“I don’t in the least. In fact, I might join you.”
She twisted in his arms so she could look up at him. “What were you and Sheriff Dan talking about last night? You two looked deep in conversation.”
Cal’s smile grew and her heart skipped a beat in her chest. “He offered me a job.”
“A job,” she gasped, hugging him tightly. “Cal, that’s wonderful. What kind of job?”
“His job. He wants to retire. He has for a long time but he hadn’t found the right person to turn Applewood over to. He thinks I’m the one.”
Cal would make an excellent sheriff. He was good with people and he handled a crisis like a pro – which of course he was. He was just what Applewood needed.
“That’s wonderful. Are you going to take it?” Mika didn’t want to push but she hoped he would. This was the perfect opportunity for him.
“There’s some details to iron out but I think I will. Are you okay with that?”
“Very okay. I love the idea. But as I said before I just want you to be happy.”
“I’m happier than I’ve ever been. I have you, Alex, Henry, and now a new job. Things are looking up.”
Mika blinked back a few tears, her throat clogging with emotion. “I’m happy you’re home. I never wanted to admit it but I missed you. I always hoped you’d be back someday. Here you are.”
“Here I am,” he agreed with a laugh and she couldn’t stop smiling back at him. She was filled with life and pure unadulterated joy. “Loving you. The rest of our life starts now and that’s what I want with you. A future.”
For so long Mika thought love had passed her by and that she’d lost her chance to have the kind of life she’d always dreamed about. Now here it was all gift wrapped in passion and happiness and it was almost too good to be true.
But it was true. And it was all hers.
Thank you for reading Unwanted Danger
Sign up to be notified of Olivia’s new releases: