A Family of Their Own - By Gail Gaymer Martin Page 0,18
but nothing challenging. No need for a lot of conversation.”
Ross chuckled. “Unless it’s picking out a movie.”
“Okay, but you can always put ideas in a hat and let them draw. Then it’s no one’s idea.”
Ethan’s good humor gave Ross hope. He grinned as he rose. “Great idea. Thanks.”
“Anytime.” Ethan slippedd from the desk and slid his arm around Ross’s shoulders. “I suppose Kelsey told you I was irked at Lexie when she advised her not to get too involved with you.”
His back tightened. “No, she didn’t.”
“Oops.” His arm dropped to his side. “I assumed she did. Lexie feared exactly what you’re talking about. How can two people with sick kids find time for another person?”
Ross nodded his head. At least he wasn’t the only one to question the situation.
“But I saw it differently. I think the two of you deserve some fun and companionship other than with your kids.” He squeezed Ross’s shoulder. “For the reasons I mentioned.”
“Thanks for the vote of confidence.” He extended his hand and Ethan gave it a squeeze.
When he stepped into the hallway, though a weight remained on his shoulders, his step felt lighter.
“What do you think about the movie idea?”
Kelsey gazed at Ross’s eyes filled with hope. Her chest constricted, thinking of the pleading she would have to do. “Let me check with Lucy, okay?”
His head lowered as if studying the carpet of her living room. “I understand. If I were Lucy, I wouldn’t want to spend time with Peyton, either.”
“Ross.” She reached across the space and grasped his hand. “Peyton’s a sweet girl, but she’s been rejected so often she’s put up barriers. Even adults do that.”
He nodded, but the discouraged look remained on his face. “I’m baffled.” His pleading gaze searched hers. “I’ve talked with her and tried to explain that she has to reach out to people. She can’t.”
“She can. It takes time. Everything’s in God’s time. I’ve heard you say that yourself.”
A grin crept to his lips. “Easy to say but hard to follow.”
“I know, but trust. Friendships take time to build.” Her pulse skipped. Some friendships never happened. They both knew that. “Let me see what Lucy says.”
She strode to the doorway and down the short hallway to Lucy’s bedroom. “Can I come in?” She tapped on the door.
The door swung open. “I’m doing homework.”
She rested her hand on Lucy’s shoulder and kissed her cheek. “You’re my A-1 daughter.”
Lucy rolled her eyes. “I’m your only daughter, Mom.”
“But if I had two, you’d be my A-1.”
Her nose wrinkled but a grin appeared. “Is Ross here?”
“He is.” She motioned toward the room, and Lucy stepped aside for her to enter. When Lucy faced her, Kelsey closed the door. “Ross wondered if you’d be willing to go to a movie with them.”
“Them meaning him and Peyton?”
“No, all of us. A movie and maybe ice cream after?” Kelsey managed not to smile when Lucy’s face lit up. Ice cream was her favorite treat. “Which movie?”
Kelsey stared at the ceiling. “It’s…the one with Emma Roberts. You should enjoy it. I think it’s a suspense or something.”
Lucy shrugged. “You really want me to do this?”
She nodded. “Peyton needs approval.” She raised her hand to stop Lucy’s comment. “I know it’s not easy, but be compassionate. She has a very nice dad so I’m sure she’s a nice girl.”
Lucy raised her eyebrows.
“With a few problems.”
Eyebrows lowering, Lucy gave a nod. “I know.” She drew up her shoulders. “When?”
“Tonight. It’s Friday. No school tomorrow. And remember. Ice cream.”
“Okay, Mom. But that wasn’t fair.”
Kelsey chuckled. “I know. But the ice cream was Ross’s idea not mine.” She headed for the door and pulled it open. “Finish what you’re doing and get ready. I’ll tell Ross.”
After she closed the bedroom door, she leaned against the wall, hoping to discard the random thoughts charging through her head. All of them involved Ross. Where could this relationship lead? And what kind of relationship did Ross intend? Since Lexie’s wedding, their meetings had been like playdates—parents taking their kids to the local park to ride the slides and swings. Is that all it was? If so, did she want that kind of acquaintance?
Sometimes her heart skipped a beat when she pictured Ross. The idea added excitement to her life and stirred her awareness to realize that romance might feel good in her life if she could learn to trust again. Ross had become a faithful friend. His devotion to Peyton, even the love he still held for his wife, registered a good