FREE AUDIOBOOK! Popular Contemporary Romance Series. (One More Chance) #freeaudiobooks

one more chance Romeo family romance book 11 written by Jennifer Youngblood narrated by Lisa valdini dedicated with love to Shelby Sophia and mea there are friendships that are born out of circumstance and then there are those rare exceptional occurrences where if you put two people in a room with a thousand other people they will inevitably find one another every time Shelby is one of those such friends God put her in my path many years ago and I will be forever grateful she is truly my angel on Earth thank you shell for all of our wonderful madcap adventures for listening and caring but most of all for allowing me to be me and you to be you chapter one it was one of those conversations that birdie had never wanted to have with with her kids she'd had the same conversation with her mama and sister deep down a part of Birdie had feared this for years the shadow of what might happen looming large and terrible over her like a storm cloud waiting to spill Jackson's hearty laughter pulled her out of her Gloom hey little bro you'd better take it down a notch you're slathering it on a bit thick even for you it makes you sound desperate Mason scoffed desperate my eye I'm just speaking the truth he slid his arm around Selma's shoulders and pulled her close as he zeroed in on cash when you hear this woman sing you're going to beg her to go on tour with you he boasted Selma's cheeks went pink Mason she sighed in exasperation as she threw cash a nervous look don't force the issue cash chuckled easily not the slightest bit put out by Mason's pestering what happens if I decide that I want Selma and not you there was a teasing glint in his eyes Ava grinned shaking her head as she put a hand on Cash's arm quit razing your brother she admonished that's the thing Mason drawled the two of us are a package deal he gave Selma an adoring look right babe right she responded with a soft smile the two seemed to get lost in one another's eyes birdie couldn't help but Smile as she watched them a lot had changed in Mason's life recently he just signed with a professional football team as their kicker but his plans drastically shifted when he crossed paths with Selma birdie had nearly flipped out when she learned that Mason had almost been killed by Selma's psychotic boyfriend who was trying to coerce her into marrying him thankfully everything had turned out okay in the end and he was sitting in the den fully intact a prayer of gratitude flitted through her mind thank you for keeping Mason safe and for setting him on the right path with a good woman who knows how to keep his feet moving the right direction Mason's in love Ramsey taunted yes I am Mason proclaimed loudly to the entire room this woman right here has stolen my heart his voice turned gooey like warm caramel as he peered into Selma's eyes isn't she the most beautiful thing y'all have ever seen Milo sniggered and placed a hand over his mouth as he looked at his mom Zoe just shook her head grinning Mason s blustered with a shaky chuckle her face turning cherry red delighted laughter G L from Mason's throat he enjoyed making Selma squirm for all of his Cockiness it was obvious that Mason was over the moon for Selma birdie was glad that he'd finally met his match she suspected it wouldn't be long before Mason and Selma announced their engagement and then all of her children would be married at least I will have lived long enough to meet all of my children's spouses but what about all the grandchildren that that were sure to come she wanted to get to know them she had so much to live for a cold sweat broke over her body her throat thickened as she swallowed she couldn't lose it here in front of the family she had to be strong at birdie and knox's request all of the family had gathered together this evening for dinner they'd feasted on chicken fingers mashed potatoes gravy biscuits and all the fixings compliments of Gina knox's housekeeper and cook Gina and her husband Hank were practically family and had wanted to join them tonight but Knox diplomatically suggested that they come another time birdie and I want to spend some time alone with the kids and grandkids Knox had said Lively chatter and laughter pinged around the den it was good to see the entire family together Noah and Piper's photography took them around the world cash and ramsy along with their wives Ava and heartley were often away on a tour it hadn't been easy for the two couples to break away from their work to come home birdie and Knox were seated side by side on the sofa KNX reached for Birdie's hand when he cast her a concerned look it dinged through her brain that her hand was ice cold are you doing okay he asked quietly she forced a smile I'm fine she said turly just ready to get this over with he nodded in understanding as he pulled in a long breath can I have everyone's attention he said in a commanding tone a few seconds later the chatter ceased as all eyes turned to knocks he glanced at birdie your mama and I have something that we need to say about time you put a ring on Mama's finger Mason piped in with a cheeky grin hey now don't steal their Thunder jackon countered I'm not stealing anything Mason argued birdie jerked as she turned to Knox he looked as surprised as she felt tears Rose in her eyes and she blinked fast to stay them oh how she wished that they were announcing happy news such as an engagement she and Knox had been dancing around the topic of their relationship for quite some time while birdie had hoped several times that Knox might propose he hadn't right now a wedding proposal was the farthest thing from her mind a wedding signified longevity and expectations for a future her gaze moved over the room of hopeful faces settling on Zoe was her daughter's body harboring those fateful genes that could one day lead to her demise or maybe Madison was first her mother her sister and now birdie a shiver ran down her spine she couldn't think that way she had to think positively what's the good word Noah prompted with a large Smile as he looked expectantly from birdie to KNX birdie removed her hand from knox's and clasped her hands together tightly she sucked in a deep breath preparing to speak Madison jumped to her feet before you make your announcement she blurted there's something you need to hear here 10 years old Madison had shot up in height and was on the gangly side with her dark hair and eyes she was sure to be a beauty like Zoe she Twisted the ball of her foot into the floor as she looked at Zoe for approval Zoe nodded my mama's having a baby Madison exclaimed exuberantly tears sprang to Bird's eyes as she looked at Zoe whose grin stretched from here to Texas oh it made sense birdie could see it now that quiet Exquisite Cape of motherhood nestled around her daughter Zoe was resting her hands protectively over her flat stomach Briggs had a proud glow over his face it's the best of times and the worst of times life moves on how far along are you lemon Jackson's wife asked with a trace of longing lemon had Rec recently had a miscarriage birdie could tell that lemon was putting on a brave face but Zoe's news had to cut at her insides hopefully it wouldn't be too long before lemon and Jackson would get the opportunity to announce happy news of their own Jackson draped an arm around lemon and pulled her close the tenderness of his Embrace caused More Tears to moisten Bird's eyes life was interesting everyone had their own share of Trials that were specific to them four weeks Zoe answered that's fantastic Piper said as she and Noah shared a look something in their expressions made birdie wonder if they were considering starting their family Zoe's Brothers offered their hearty congratulations as they hugged her and gave Briggs hearty pats on the back I thought you were looking a little pudgy Mason teased Zoe gave him a look that could kill Selma just shook her head sorry I can't take him anywhere that's wonderful news knock said in a ponderous tone as he turned to birdie she got the feeling that he was wondering the same thing as her did they dare break the bad news to the family and ruin Zoe's moment maybe if birdie just kept everything to herself then it would somehow go away she'd wanted to call all the kids and tell them her news but Knox insisted that it would be better to tell everyone in person he was probably right it was just so hard to talk about it once the words left her mouth it would all be out in the open it would be painfully real okay now tell us your news Zoe prompted birdie swallowed she got The Uncanny feeling that time was frozen once she unleashed the words there would be no calling them back she couldn't stop more wretched tears from filling her eyes go ahead KNX prompted gently as he draped a protective arm around her shoulder she was grateful for Knox and his strength when she'd first told him the news they'd cried together KNX kept telling her that everything would be okay but she got the feeling that he was trying to reassure himself the mood in the room immediately shifted from joyous to tense what's going on Jackson asked he gave lemon a nervous glance before turning his attention back to birdie I have breast cancer birdie croaked a stunned silence fell over the group birdie couldn't stop hot tears from trailing down her cheeks tell them the rest Knox prompted my prognosis is good we caught it early and and it's a very small cluster her voice trembled as she took in a breath trying to get ah hold of her emotions she could feel her children's fear oozing out and mixing with her own I've already had a biopsy and an MRI down on both breasts the cancer hasn't spread the relief in the room was palpable as birdie continued my oncologist says that I won't have to do chemotherapy just radiation the thought of possibly losing her hair had filled her with Dread she was so relieved that she wouldn't have to go down that path her voice sounded unnaturally high-pitched to her own ears my doctor expects me to make a full recovery all in all I'm really very lucky an image of Bird's mother and sister flashed through her mind both of them had died from ovarian cancer realizing she was at risk birdie Ed to have a hysterctomy a few months after her sister Jolie died what birdie hadn't counted on was getting breast cancer even though they'd caught her cancer early and her doctor was optimistic about her treatment birdie was still petrified the nights were the worst when she'd wake up bathed in a sickly sweat Terror overtaking her all sorts of terrible thoughts assaulted her mind such as what if the doctors were wrong what if the cancer had spread doctors were fallible they didn't always catch everything would the cancer come back again and again until it destroyed her during those times all she could do was pray for strength Ramsay was the first to Pepper her with questions when are you going in for surgery next week will it be impatient or outpatient outpatient when will you start the radiation s soon after the surgery I'll go every weekday for 6 weeks birdie caught eyes with Selma her expression was one of pure sympathy Selma's mother had overcome cancer Selma above anyone knew the fear that came from hearing the word cancer Selma's mother had beaten the odds when the traditional treatments failed to work she'd opted for nontraditional treatments that cured her birdie felt a blip of Envy for Selma's mom she'd faced the monster and had come off Victorious birdie was hoping and praying that her do Christopher's optimistic prognosis would prove to be right she didn't want to have to go through chemotherapy radiation would be bad enough her cancer was slow progressing that was the good news the bad news was that because of where the cancer was located one of her lungs would be exposed to radiation the radi ation would most likely reduce her lung capacity by 2% while it was a small number it was her lungs they were talking about birdie was still finding it hard to wrap her mind around the situation life was sailing along like normal until she got that phone call telling her that her mamogram had turned up something concerning are you going to be okay Mama Madison asked her voice tremulous yes yes I am birdie answered with all the confidence she could summon she offered her granddaughter a confident smile I have the best doctors on my side she glanced at Knox hoping he'd back her up mama's going to be just fine KNX asserted winking at Madison seeing the worry on her grandkids faces was the worst she'd wanted to break the news to the children when Milo and Madison weren't around but Knox and said Ed that it was better to tell everyone at the same time Milo and Madison are mature for their ages they can handle it besides if you have to have cancer it's a good one to have you'll make a complete recovery her head kept assuring her of that but the sick fear in the pit of her stomach spoke otherwise birdie was sure she was freaking out because she'd lost her mother and sister to cancer her mother's death was what spiraled her into the dark depression that caused her marriage to fail well that and knox's affair she pushed aside the despondent thoughts birdie couldn't let herself go down that path again she had to remain positive so she could fight this illness she'd have to take things one step at a time fight the monster in front of her before seeking out the others lurking in the shadows I'm not sure about the doctor thing KNX grumbled what do you mean cash frowned irritation trapes through birdie under different circumstances she might have been flattered by knox's disgruntled attitude but right now he was getting on her nerves my oncologist is Christopher Wallace Zoe's jaw dropped your boyfriend from high school yep birdie snipped Christopher happens to be one of the top oncologist in the nation he's the leading physician at the Hopewell Cancer Treatment Center in Nashville I'm very fortunate that he's overseeing my treatment she cut her eyes at Knox daring him to disagree I'd rather have someone who knows me personally instead of being just another number Christopher Wallace would like nothing better than to get his hooks into you Knox muttered he's probably glad you have cancer so he can swoop in on a white horse and Save you Fury burned through Bird's veins causing her body to tremble are you listening to yourself her voice went shrill I have cancer and all you can think about is Christopher trying to make a move on me seriously Knox held up a hand you're right I'm sorry his pained expression caused Bird's anger to dissolve like her KNX was scared aside from their divorce they'd lived Charmed lives in many ways all of their children were healthy and successful she and Knox had always been healthy they had prosperous businesses and nice homes maybe fate was claiming its dues there were so many people who were worse off yes she had cancer but the doctors had caught it early thanks to a routine mamogram she had so much to be thankful for she just needed to hold on to all of the good things in her life would you like me to take old Christopher out for you ramsy asked dry now's not the time for jokes his wife heartly cautioned giving him a swift jab in the ribs with her elbow she offered birdie an apologetic look ouch ramsy howled you're vicious red that's what they tell me heartley smirked she threw Ramsay a saucy grin better not forget it super man Mason turned to Selma hey babe why don't you ever call me Superman his voice was petulant wounded laughter exploded amongst the brothers even the women in the room looked at one another grinning birdie was grateful for the levity it helped to ease some of her tension this was familiar the light-hearted banter that had always been an integral part of their family you're such a wher Jackson taunted you already have a nickname one kick Wonder Mason made a face not B again I don't even play football anymore he gave cash a meaningful look I'm in the music business now okay cash relented you don't have to beat a dead horse you and Selma should stop by the house tomorrow and I'll listen to you sing yes Mason said as he punched a victory fist into the air it'll be a pleasure to have you over Ava said to Selma Milo shot Ramsay a speculative glance hey superman I've got a couple of dudes at school you can take out for me 14 years old Milo was Zoe's oldest son and Bird's oldest grandchild Milo Zoe reprimanded Briggs chuckled a now he's just teasing he shot Milo a piercing look aren't you son yes sir mil Milo said dutifully lowering his head Briggs was Milo's stepfather while the two of them had gotten off to a rocky start they were super close now Briggs Couldn't Love Milo and Madison anymore if they were his own flesh and blood children Brigg slid an arm around Zoe's shoulders as if trying to soothe her ruffled feathers it worked she gave him an affectionate smile there will be no talk of taking anyone out birdie gave Ramsay a sharp look yes ma'am Ramsay replied with a sheepish grin he threw Milo a wink let's talk about those dudes at your school I can show you a way to take care of them sounds good Milo beamed Zoe rolled her eyes at ramsy stop egging him on she gave heartly a pleading look help me out here Harley chuckled I wish I could but you and I both know that I can't do a dang thing about your brother he's going to do exactly as he pleases she cut her eyes at ramsy Harley and ramsy had a fiery relationship they fought hard and loved hard hey now Ramsay countered it can't hurt to teach Milo how to defend himself can you teach me too Madison asked with bright eager eyes Zoe looked at Briggs for help but he shrugged your brother has a point the kids do need need to learn how to defend themselves we'll talk about this later Zoe said giving Milo a motherly scowl when the conversation lapsed birdie took in a long breath before looking around the room I'm sorry that we had to gather you all here for this Tears bubbled In Her Eyes those dang tears she wished she could keep them at Bay she smiled trying to sound braver than she felt I'll get through this she wished she could snap her fingers and then it would all be over she wanted to go back to when she was perfectly healthy she'd been excited to see where her and knox's relationship would go now everything was dead in the water she had to focus on getting over the cancer before she could think of anything else she felt a deep sadness as she mourned the deficiency in her body it would be hard for her to submit herself to the will of the doctors to trust that the treatments they recommended would cure her cancer we know you will Noah stood and went to her side I love you mama he said gruffly and folding her in a tight hug I love you too birdie replied with throaty emotion a few seconds later the rest of the family took turns hugging her birdie had no idea what the next few weeks and even months would hold but the one thing she was grateful for was that she had her family by her side chapter 2 Bird's heels clipped a Brisk Rhythm against the sidewalk as she walked toward her boutique she glanced up the warmth of the sun felt good on her face she took in a deep breath before her gaze fell on a patch of daffodils poking their JY heads through the ground evidence that spring was just around the corner her heart felt light enough to fly this spring would be unique in that it signified a fresh new beginning for birdie passing a familiar face birdie nodded and smiled at the attractive brunette around her same age with honey blonde highlights hello Melissa Wilson responded with a congenial Smile as she stopped birdie pointed at the red gift bag with the gold tissue paper that Melissa had draped over her arm I see you've been doing some shopping thanks for supporting the cause the bag was from Birdie's Boutique you bet I just love Effie Melissa gushed she was so helpful she helped me find the perfect dress for Walter's birthday party you've got yourself a fine employee she arched a sculpted eyebrow much better than Katie who was more worried about talking to her boyfriend on the phone than helping customers a Ry grin pulled at Bird's lips she and Melissa went way back to high school when they'd been cheerleaders while Melissa's cander tended to great on Bird's nerves from time to time Melissa was spoton she'd had to let her former sales clerk go because Katie was worthless she'd hired Effie Smith a few weeks ago and she was working out wonderfully Effie was a newcomer to Franklin birdie could only hope she could convince Effie to stick around for the long term Effie was the kind of employee that birdie could train to one day manage the store how old is Walter birdie asked 63 tell him I said happy birthday birdie clucked her tongue Walter's getting up there I know Melissa laughed I keep telling him that I'm not sure how I feel being married to a 60-year-old it's a good thing you and I are still in our 50s birdie joked Melissa gave her a conspiratorial look I've decided to stay 59 forever me too birdie grinned Walter keeps waiting for me to get some gray hairs Melissa patted her Flawless Hair her hazel eyes dancing with mirth as she batted her artificially enhanced eyelashes thanks to Noel's capable hands I don't think that'll happen anytime soon amen Noel Bird's niece owned an operated a hair salon just a few blocks away from the town's main Square where they were standing Noel was a master at color her business was booming Noel looks like she's about to pop when is she do any day now well she and Holden certainly seem happy I'm so glad me too berdie was grateful that her niece had been able to reconnect with Holden her former boyfriend and the love of her life she'd never seen Noel or her son Aiden so content a Pang tugged at birdie as she thought of her older sister Jolie who'd passed away Noel was expecting a girl Jolie had gotten to know Aiden but she would never know her granddaughter birdie and Knox had done their best to help fill the void in Noel's life but there was no way anyone could truly fill Julie's shoes Knox owned the building where Noel's Salon was located he'd purchased it to help Noel also he'd given her seed money to start her business how's your new grandbaby Zoe's little one Melissa asked a smile curved Birdie's lips great it was a girl right yep how old is she 3 months old I bet she's a cutie oh she is she rules the roost birdie retrieved her phone from her purse and showed Melissa a picture Milo and Madison do on her look at all of that dark hair Melissa CED She's a Beauty like her mama yes she is birdie agreed with a touch of Pride what's her name mea that's a beautiful name I'm so happy for you birdie Melissa gave her a searching look concern passing over her features how's your health birdie couldn't stop a gargantuan smile from filling her face fit as a fiddle I just got the results of my mamogram no cancer Elation ran through her veins it had been 10 months since she first learned that she had cancer her body had responded well to the treatments while she wouldn't be considered officially cured for 5 years in her mind she was good she wanted to put the ordeal behind her for so long she'd been so sick with fear that cancer would do her in like it did her mother and sister she was so grateful to the good Lord above that she'd been spared and had a new lease on life every clear mamogram that she got signaled that she was moving in the right direction Christopher had called to to tell her the news himself and he'd asked her to dinner birdie had reluctantly agreed mostly because she didn't know how to tell him no Knox wouldn't like it but he'd just have to get over it after all it wasn't as if Knox had asked her out recently the minute she got cancer Knox backed off presumably because he was petrified that she would slip into another dark depression maybe he was afraid to put himself out there again for fear that birdie would go off her rocker it was hard to know what was going on in knox's head birdie wasn't sure what to think about their relationship things were so confusing right now especially with Christopher in the picture on some level birdie could understand knox's reservations about her mental health at first she'd also been concerned that her cancer might set her down the dark path of depression but it hadn't by the grace of God and and through the help of Christopher Knox and her kids birdie had come through the ordeal emotionally and mentally sound she was ready to get on with her life and was tired of waiting around for Knox to make a decision she'd learned that life was Fragile with no guarantees Knox was either going to have to step up to the plate or she was going to have to move on so Melissa began in a juicy tone as she stepped closer closer to birdie and touched her arm are the rumors true birdie tensed what rumors did Christopher Wallace move back to Franklin because of you the two of you were thick ass thieves in high school she trilled out a velvety chuckle I'll bet Knox isn't too happy about Christopher being in the picture birdie was no dummy Melissa was baiting her to see how she would react she ignored the comment Melissa's voice bubbled that's such an interesting turn of events that Christopher is your oncologist Bird's spine went stiff how did you know that it's a small town W gets around how did you find out birdie pressed giving her the stink eye she wasn't going to let Melissa weasle her way out of this one Melissa let out a long Huff as she made a flourish with her hand if you must know doy Craven is a nurse at the clinic yeah I saw doy a few times during my treatments doy had been so kind and considerate it irked birdie to know that doy was gossiping about her she told Susie Hoffman who told Lisa Phillips that Dr Wallace made a point of coming into the clinic to see you and Dr Wallace told all the nurses that they were to take extra good care of you or else a grin played over Melissa's lips sounds like somebody's still carrying a torch for you Christopher's a very handsome man don't you agree heat crept up birdie's neck she hoped Knox hadn't gotten wind of the gossip otherwise he'd be furious Melissa's eyes zinged with interest is there anything going on between you and the do are you rekindling the old FL flame that flame has been dead since high school birdie harped although she could tell from the way Melissa's eyebrows shot up clear into her bangs that she wasn't convinced we're good friends birdie continued carefully berdie could tell that Christopher was developing feelings for her she wasn't sure how she felt about that Christopher was a very handsome man in a distinguished doctorly way Christopher was her first love she'd been crazy about him in high school but then she and Knox started dating and nox had stolen her heart showing her what love truly was her stomach clutched how different her and knox's lives might have been had Bird's mama not gotten sick those were Dark Times birdie had been so overwhelmed trying to be a good mother and wife she couldn't cope with the trauma of losing her mama and then Naomi stepped in and made a play for Knox she scoured inwardly thinking about the woman Knox had the affair with Naomi had capitalized on Bird's depression and had gotten to Knox when he was weak still the circumstances didn't excuse Knox for having the affair the older birdie got with more wisdom under her belt she could see how her depression and Naomi moving in was the Perfect Storm she and Knox had not stood a chance with so much water under the bridge some good and some bad she wondered what their future would hold could they move past the hurts of the past and build something new or would the scars forever Mar them how does Knox feel about Christopher buying one of the houses in his development birdie ran her words through her brain to make sure they wouldn't do either her or KNX any harm before releasing them Knox is a businessman he was grateful for the sale in all actuality Knox had intended to refuse to sell Christopher the house until birdie talked him into it Christoper is devastated by the loss of his wife birdie had argued he's trying to put his life back together the best way he can the least we can do is to help him out after all Christopher has been so good to me the past few months it had taken some convincing but finally Knox listened to birdie and agreed to sell Christopher the house birdie wasn't about to tell Melissa all of this no sense in airing dirty laundry and giving Melissa more fodder for her gossip they chatted a few more minutes before giving one another a hug and parting ways the bells over the door of Birdie's Boutique sang out a welcome jingle as birdie stepped inside The Familiar scent of lavender filled her senses the boutique with its racks of beautiful clothes shelves loaded with designer shoes purses and other accessories was Birdie's Haven she loved every aspect of her business as she stepped up to the checkout counter the soft lavender scent gave way to the pungent smell of flowers Birdie's gaze took in the large impressive bouquet she looked at Effie wow someone must like you a lot to send these with her terrific figure dark curly hair and golden brown eyes fringed with thick Sy lashes Effie was a beauty she would no doubt have plenty of admirers birdie rubbed her thumb over the silky petal of one of the lies as she leaned in and inhaled those aren't for me they're for you birdie Drew back in surprise her hand going over her chest for me her heart leapt with anticipation was Knox finally making his move he was coming here in a few minutes to take her to lunch birdie couldn't wait to give him the fantastic news about her mamogram and her clean bill of health she wanted to tell KNX first and then she'd call the children Effie shook her head no not from Knox she said in a sing song voice as she flashed birdie an insinuating grin here's the card she handed it over Bird's eyes widened when she realized it was from Christopher it read hello beautiful lady congratulations on your wonderful news that was one phone call that I was happy to make I can't wait for tomorrow night what's happening tomorrow night Effie pointed to the card as she wrinkled her nose sorry I didn't mean to be nosy but it didn't come in an EMP velope birdie placed the card on the counter before putting down her purse no worries she sighed I'm going to dinner with Christopher oh wow I didn't realize that two of you were involved we're not birdie countered a little too sharply Christopher's a friend she added when she saw Effie's surprised expression Effie made a point of cutting her eyes toward the flowers maybe you should tell him that yeah maybe so birdie changed the subject how's it going good Effie's voice became businesslike I got all of the new inventory keyed into the system and put on the racks and shelves we've had a steady stream of customers this morning now that the weather is warming up people are starting to get out birdie jutted her thumb toward the door I just ran into Melissa Wilson on the sidewalk she was singing your praises Effie's face brightened oh thanks she seems like a nice lady Effie tipped her head as she pursed her lips a bit gossipy but nice birdie chuckled impressed at how spot-on Effie's assessment was yep she chimed if you don't want the world to know your business then don't tell Melissa bless her heart Melissa's a good friend but you have to watch what you say around her good to know he grinned birdie walked over to one of the racks and reached for the dress on the front holding it out for inspection is this one from the New Windsor collection it was canary yellow with large white flowers outlined in thin gold lines yep sure is it looks great better than it did online she traced her fingers over the neat stitching the cotton fabric was light and Airy maybe we should have ordered more than just five styles I agree that's the style dress that Melissa purchased she went Gaga over it I can see why the door chimed as two women in their early 20s came in chattering and laughing draping on a friendly smile eff he went to help them birdie stepped behind the counter and began tapping away on the keyboard of the computer checking all of the new inventory she halfway listened as Effie waited on the girls birdie glanced at the flowers they were Exquisite Christopher was turning up the heat it was starting to concern her a little and yet she couldn't deny that she was flattered by his attention it felt good to be doed on she often felt like KNX took her for granted maybe that was to be expected considering their long history together her thoughts turned back to eie she was a pro offering the girls the help they needed without hovering Effie had away with people and that was a skill which couldn't be taught by the time the girls left their arms were loaded down with two large bags each as they happily assured Effie they would tell all of their friends about the new inventory that had just arrived you're really good at this birdie assessed thanks Effie tucked a curl behind her ear as she looked down at the floor in an attempt to deflect the praise Effie was a a good listener and had a knack for fitting into the environment quickly but she'd not told birdie much about her past all birdie knew was that she was an only child from somewhere in Louisiana while Effie was always friendly and upbeat birdie sensed that there was a sadness about her making her wonder what had happened in her past maybe with time Effie would open up more hey I've got something for you Effie looked surprised really yep let me get it I'll be right back birdie went into the store room and pulled a box from the Shelf she went over to where Effie was standing here you go she sang a bamus smile tipped Effie's lips what is it shoes she'd frowned as if she'd just thought of something did I forget to put something out no birdie chuckled just open it Effie lifted the lid her eyes rounding with shock shade of lemon she sputtered she reached into the box and retrieved one of the sandals it's my gift to you birdie proclaimed you've been working so hard that I wanted to do something to show my appreciation 7 and a half my size how did you know birdie grinned I've been doing retail a long time I can spot a size 7 and a half a mile away how did you know that I wanted wanted these I saw you admire in the last pair of size nine sandals we had in the store I asked lemon to get another pair one of the perks of having a daughter-in-law who was a highly sought-after designer of purses and shoes was being able to carry several lines of lemon's products in the boutique lemon's products were so popular however that they sold almost as fast as birdie put them out thank you Effie breathed her eyes glistening with moisture this means a lot as if on impulse she bounded around the counter and threw her arms around birdie I really appreciate this you're very welcome birdie was glad that her gift was so well received from the way Effie was acting birdie suspected that Effie must not have had many people do kind things for her in the past it felt good to do something nice for someone especially someone who was so well-deserving I think I'll put them on now Effie said eagerly go ahead that way you can get them good and broken in a large smile broke over Birdie's features I have some good news I got a call from my oncologist today Effie's eyes sparkled with Amusement from Christopher Wallace Bird's cheeks went warm yep she worked with Effie on a daily basis and felt so comfortable around her that she was easy to confide in however with the gossip flying around as Melissa so aptly pointed out and in light of the enormous bouquet of flowers birdie briefly wondered if she'd said too much not that there was anything to say mind you she considered Christopher a friend but he obviously wanted more or maybe he was just being kind that was possible Right birdie realized that Effie was waiting for her to deliver the news my mamogram came up clean no cancer that's great Effie said but it was hard to get a read on her expression was it Nostalgia or wistfulness that birdie detected what's wrong she asked touching Effie's hand tears gathered in Effie's eyes as she smiled I'm happy for you truly she hesitated it's just that I lost someone very close to me to cancer it's still fresh sympathy welled in Birdie's chest I totally understand I lost my mother and sister to cancer Effie blinked really birdie nodded yeah even though my cancer has been a best case scenario it has been grueling on my nerves I can imagine ruminating over the Whata if is the worst they shared an understanding look as birdie swallowed down her emotion I'm glad you're doing well Effie uttered softly it's a blessing yes it is birdie said emphatically and she meant every word she glanced at the clock on the wall I wonder where Knox is he should have been here by now her stomach growled reminding her that she was hungry Effie held up a finger oh I forgot to tell you Knox is running a little late something about having trouble with a tractor at the ranch I wonder why he called the boutique instead of my cell phone he said he tried but couldn't get you really birdie pulled her phone out of her purse sure enough she'd missed a call from Knox a half hour ago she felt a whisper of relief it was with a jolt that she realized a part of her had feared Knox was avoiding her he was so bent out of shape about Christopher for months now Knox had been insisting that Christopher was trying to make a move on her birdie had adamantly denied it but the Monstrous bouquet spoke otherwise as did Christopher buying a house in Franklin or maybe she was reading too much into things her emotions were so muddled and confused right now was it wrong to be flattered by Christopher's attention he was after all a very successful and handsome man now not to mention her childhood sweetheart Effie's phone dinged she reached for it her features tensing what's going on is everything okay it's my ex-boyfriend Travis Effie spouted he wants me to call him so we can talk a shadow crossed over her features things didn't end well between us when I left to come here is he harassing you Effie barked out a humorless laugh harass is Travis's middle name should you go to the police no Effie said offhandedly Travis isn't dangerous just a jerk gotcha the Bell jingled as the door opened and knock stepped in Bird's heart skipped a beat as he stroe up to the counter birdie marveled at how all the energy in the room seemed to gather around Knox his gate was so smooth and fluid that he might have been 30 years old he gave birdie a sheepish grin sorry I'm late the dadgum tractor went kaput I'm going to try and get it working again but I'm afraid it's a lost cause oh wow I'm sorry birdie said automatically it ain't no biggie Jackson's tickled pink he's been chomping at the bit to get a new tractor now he has a good excuse Knox went to Birdie's side and gave her a peck on the lips causing tingles to Circle through her she caught a spicy whiff of his cologne mixed with his own masculine scent evoking a longing that settled deep into her bones when she and Knox were younger his hair had been so black that it was nearly blue now it was mixed with silver particularly around his temples his golden skin had a Weathered Edge that added to his Rough and Tumble appearance Knox was a cowboy to to the core his denim shirt faded leave eyes and worn leather boots seemed to be an extension of him he'd always been a handsome man but maturity had enhanced his appeal While most men his age were getting soft around the middle and collecting extra flesh around their chins Knox was lean with chiseled strong features he'd been on the thin side when he was younger however he'd filled out his 6-ft frame well with li toned muscles indicative of one who'd spent a lifetime doing manual labor his teal eyes flicked with appreciation as he looked her up and down is that a new outfit it is she was surprised that he noticed maybe this was a good sign you look beautiful he murmured warmth simmered in her stomach thanks all Knox had to do was say the word and she'd marry him again in an instant a dazzling smile spread over knox's lips as he turned to Effie hello little darling he drawled as he perched his arm on the counter in a casual stance how are you doing today Effie's face turned redder than a sunburn fine she stammered birdie bit back a smile Knox was the quintessential silver tongue devil he could charm the scales off a snake the family used to tease Jackson about being a magnet for the ladies but he didn't have anything on his daddy Knox had a quick silver personality that Drew people to him had he chosen that path Knox could have been a country music Superstar like cash it was Knox who opened the doors for cash giving him his start the ladies still flocked after Knox which didn't sit well with birdie but that's how it was Knox let out a low whistle as he pointed to the bouquet nice flowers I'll bet those cost a pretty penny he looked at Effie are those for you sweetheart Panic fluttered in Bird's breast she tried to catch Effie's eyes so she could silently convey her wish for Effie not to rat her out but Effie wasn't looking in her Direction uh those aren't mine they're birdies she blurted a deep flush overtaking her face as she she cast birdie an apologetic look the corners of knox's lips turned down as he turned his Focus to birdie oh who sent them his voice was deceptively light but she caught the serious expression in his eyes she swallowed feeling like her tongue was tying a noose around her windpipe as her mind raced to articulate a response it was then that she remembered that she'd left Christopher's car laying on the counter thankfully it was tucked behind her purse so that Knox couldn't see it it's from one of my suppliers Knox immediately relaxed his expression becoming genial once more wow somebody's trying hard to earn your business yep they are birdie said casually she winced inwardly at her lie she cast a surreptitious glance at Effie who wore a shocked uncomfortable expression birdie felt like a louse for lying but she didn't want her lunch with Knox to be completely ruined it irked her that Knox was being so bullheaded about her friendship with Christopher if Knox was so worried about it then there was an easy solution put a ring on her finger in her weaker moments the thought had entered Bird's mind that she could use Christopher to make Knox jealous maybe prompt him to act she squelched the Renegade thoughts before they could take Route however birdie didn't want to play games with KNX because she didn't want to do anything to lose his trust they had enough heartache between them as it was she didn't intend to add more fuel to the fire furthermore she cared about Christopher he was a good kind man who'd helped her tremendously losing his wife had taken a large toll on him birdie didn't want to toy with his affections the door chimed as a guy in his mid 20s stepped into the boutique he had a bad boy troubled Edge certainly not the type of guy who would be shopping at a boutique Travis what are you doing here Effie gasped her hand going up around her neck he smirked I figured since you haven't been answering my calls or texts that I'd pay you a visit he pushed a hand through his hair to smooth it down Travis was a handsome guy the type who assumed that the world should roll out the red carpet for him this is not a good time Effie hissed her eyes darting nervously to birdie before going back to Travis Travis glanced at birdie and Knox sorry to interrupt folks he said in a Cavalier manner but me and my lady are going to have a little talk he stepped up to Effie and grabbed her arm let go of me she demanded I told you you we're through we're not through until I say we're through Travis grunted birdie took one look at KNX the Ironclad set of his jaw and the fire in his eyes and knew what was coming next son you need to leave Knox commanded in a non-nonsense takech charge tone that birdie had heard more times than she could count those who knew Knox had enough sense to recognize that KNX meant business while his bark was intimidating his bite was much worse unfortunately Travis didn't have enough sense to realize that he was about to tangle with a seasoned tiger that could lay Travis out flat without breaking a sweat he let out a derisive laugh stay out of this old man this is between me and my lady I'm not your lady Effie seed jerking her arm out of his grasp she pointed to the door her face fire engine red you need to leave now Travis let out a string of vile words Knox caught hold of his arm let's go he clipped Travis Drew back to Sock Knox it was almost comical how quickly Knox deflected the punch and pivoted Travis around so that his arm was pinned behind his back apologize to the lady nox ordered I don't think so Travis growled KNX put more pressure on Travis's arm as he yelped you're crazy man apologize Knox thundered a cornered look streaked through Travis's eyes I'm sorry he mumbled the door jingled as Samantha blanken ship stepped into the boutique she halted in her tracks her eyes going rounder than twin pancakes um what what's happening here just was teaching this scalawag some manners Knox muttered keeping Travis in a tight hold he pushed him forward this guy was just leaving Samantha stumbled back as Knox propelled Travis passed her and through the door is everything okay Samantha asked tightening her hold on her purse strap of all the people to waltz into the boutique Samantha blankin ship was the biggest gossip this side of the m and Dixon line she made Melissa Wilson look like Child's Play news of this would travel faster than the winning race car at the Talladega 500 birdie glanced at Effie who was pale as a ghost she plastered on a tight smile everything is fine she looked through the glass door to where Knox and Travis were Knox had released Travis and was talking to him his expression was controlled but serious Travis on the other hand looked like he was about to blow his cork rage twisted his face he lunged at KNX as they both went toppling oh my gosh Samantha exclaimed why is Knox fighting that kid she rushed to the door to watch the hair on the back of Bird's neck Rose her feet pushed her forward to the door also Knox didn't instigate a fight he was protecting Effie I'm so sorry Effie said birdie glanced back Effie was still standing beside the counter ringing her hands I had no idea that Travis would show up here it's okay birdie assured her her attention going back to the fight Travis was swinging like a wild man and Knox was doing his best to try and contain him birdie winced when Travis landed a blow to knox's jaw she saw the look of Fury on knox's face and knew the fight would be over soon cars were stopping to watch the spectacle and people were congregating Knox Drew back his fist and popped Travis in the jaw Travis went down like a rock Knox pulled him back up holding his shirt and his fists Samantha threw open the door and marched outside birdie followed Travis held up his hands whimpering don't hit me again please I wouldn't have hit you to begin with Knox roared until you hit me I had to do something to knock some sense in you he looked Travis in the eye you need to stay away from Effie you got that his voice was so Fierce and cutting that birdie was afraid Travis was going to quiver out of his skin I got it Travis stammered not meeting knox's gaze Knox released him get out of here he said with disgust and don't come back Travis scampered away Knox rubbed a hand across his forehead shows over folks he said wearily The Spectators looked at each other wordlessly as the crowd quickly dispersed birdie stepped up to Knox and gingerly touched his jaw are you okay I'll live he said with a Ry grin what happened Samantha perched a hand on her hip as she zeroed in on Knox Larry will need a full report Samantha's husband was the chief of police in Franklin Chief blankin ship was a close friend of ramsy and was about as level-headed as they came Samantha on the other hand felt like she Ruled The Roost because of her husband's position the kid came into the boutique trying to bully Effie Bird's employee KNX sounded tired and defeated I kindly asked him to leave and he went berserk as you saw we were lucky that Knox was here to diffuse the situation birdie interjected loudly so that anyone listening would hear otherwise the situation could have gone downhill fast the guy was threatening my employee Samantha seemed satisfied with that explanation she adjusted her sweater I'm glad you were able to take care of things she said to KNX she slid her bangs to the side with her index finger like she was brushing off the unpleasantness her voice brightened as she turned to birdie well I came to see the new dresses you have Melissa called and told me I just had to get down here before everything got picked over come on back inside and I'll get Effie to show you what we have as birdie LED Samantha back inside she shared a look with KNX he offered her a reassuring smile a red streak was spreading over his jaw where he'd been hit but birdie could tell that he wasn't overly concerned about it KNX was tough to the core birdie had always been grateful for that because it made her sons tough Knox Had a Heart of Gold but he also had a blazing hot temper Travis had gotten off easy had Knox wanted he could have wiped the floor with the kid birdie was grateful that Knox hadn't done any real damage to Travis especially with half the town watching she and Samantha stepped up to Effie are you okay honey Samantha asked her voice dripping syrup birdie told me what happened I'm so sorry Effie turned to birdie I'm the one who's sorry her head swung back and forth I can't believe Travis came here and acted like such a jerk I'm sorry she said to KNX KNX waved a hand don't worry your pretty little head about it I don't think that scoundrel will be bothering you anymore if he does you let me know or you can call my husband Samantha piped in the chief of police Effie looked like she might faint at that birdie touched her arm it's okay it's all over she nodded numbly as she clenched and unclenched her hands birdie figured the best way to get Effie's mind off the situation was to get her back to work would you mind showing Samantha our new arrivals and helping her find the right outfit you mean you still want me to work here after that tears gathered in Effie's eyes of course Bird's motherly sympathies came out full force she wanted to gather Effie into her arms and soothe away her fears as she would her own daughter Effie's shoulder sagged in relief as she gave bir birdie a weak smile thank you you're welcome birdie answered you poor dear Samantha CED she pressed her lips together shaking her head I can't believe that scoundrel came in and practically attacked you her eyes simmered with interest do you know him Effie gave birdie a hesitant look birdie could read her thoughts she was wondering if she should tell Samantha everything yeah she said in a flat tone he's my ex-boyfriend oh Samantha said wide-eyed would you like for Knox and me to bring you back something for lunch birdie asked changing the subject I hate to put you out Effie hedged it's no trouble birdie responded pleasantly what would you like maybe a turkey or ham sandwich whatever's easiest for you to get I can eat anything sounds good Samantha it's good to see you birdie said in the professional shopkeeper tone she'd perfected over the years when she needed to sever a conversation with a customer we've got lots of great new items I can't wait to see them Samantha chimed birdie went to get her purse discreetly she reached for the card Christopher had sent and dropped it into her purse she certainly didn't want Samantha to see it and blab to the entire tire town we'll see you ladies later she said in a cheerful tone that had a false ring in her own ears hopefully if she acted like everything was chill then everyone would believe it Knox opened the door for her as they stepped outside are you okay she asked quietly after the door had closed he touched his jaw yeah I just hate that the scuffle was so public she placed a hand on his arm you did the right thing I'm glad you are here his features relaxed me too I just hope the scalla doesn't come lurking back around me too where do you want to go for lunch he looked thoughtful how about mccc's Fish House you got it fish and chips klaa and hush puy sounded delicious KNX placed his hand on her spine navigating her in in that direction her senses swirled at being so close to him she loved knox's confident easy manner he was a Maverick for sure no wonder she'd not been able to move past Knox all other men paled in comparison did she dare broach the topic of the two of them maybe when he heard the news about her checkup it would prompt him to make a move she didn't want only a best friend she wanted so much more she wanted Knox to sweep her off her feet all over again she wanted a whirlwind romance she wanted to resurrect the fire and passion they'd had before she wanted to live each day to the fullest holding nothing back Birdie's phone rang she pulled it from her purse it's Zoe she said to noox he pulled a ruul smile I'm sure she's probably calling about the fight hello birdie answered Zoe launched in without Preamble what the heck happened at the boutique someone just came into the gallery telling me how daddy punched a guy chapter 3 aren't you going to eat the rest of that birdie sat back in her seat I'm stuffed I can't eat another bite her eyes were bigger than her stomach the fried fish was delicious but he heavy Knox reached for her plate placing it on top of his empty one I might as well finish it off so it won't go to waste she suppressed a smile birdie often teased him about having a Hollow Leg the truth was that KNX would go in spurts when it was something he liked he'd eat a lot then he might not hardly eat anything for the next 24 hours afterwards the fight must have increased your appetite a boyish grin stre AC cross his features as he held up his fists and thrust out his chin like he was ready to fight it's not hard to see why our boys are always Ru housing she teased I guess they come by it honestly Knox admitted as he reached for the ketchup and squeezed a quarter sized portion onto his plate before dipping a hush puppy into the sauce and plopping it into his mouth she glanced at the people sitting around them she didn't need to hear what they were saying to know that it was about Knox you're the Talk of the Town she felt like a monkey on display at the zoo she leaned in and whispered everyone's watching us he scowled shooting the man and woman closest to them a dark look Leroy KNX said by way of acknowledgment hey Knox how you doing Leroy answered his voice pitching high is there something that you need KNX eyed him in a challenge no birdie exclaimed under her breath as she placed a hand on his arm don't make a scene Leroy Martin was the bank manager of the largest bank in Franklin just eating my lunch Leroy responded in a crisp tone that suggested he didn't appreciate KNX calling him out even though birdie couldn't see Leroy's face from where she was sitting she could tell from the way the muscles in knox's jaw twitched that the men were staring one another down finally knox's jaw relaxed as he turned his attention back to the food he picked up the fish fillet and took a large bite Zoe asked if you and I could watch the kids tomorrow night she wants to take Briggs out to dinner in Nashville for his birthday bird's stomach dropped as her heart began to pound she was having dinner with Christopher tomorrow night I thought briggs' birthday wasn't until the end of the month why are they going going out so early KNX Shrugged I don't know Zoe called yesterday and asked if we could watch the kids I told her I'd talked to you about it I'm sure she'll probably call you today shoot I don't think that'll work I'm getting my hair done tomorrow afternoon and my appointment might run a little late I could watch them by myself until you get there Knox offered that might be tough with little mea she needs constant care knox's eyes rounded that's right I didn't think about that I'll call Zoe and see if she and Briggs can go out another night I suppose that would work he finished off the rest of the fish and then pushed the plate away before wiping his fingers and mouth on his napkin birdie took in a breath I've got some great news after that debacle earlier I could use some good news I got the results back from my mamogram it came back clean no cancer emotion Rose in her breast as she caught eyes with knocks his expression was one of joy and relief as his eyes grew moist that's fantastic he said in a husky tone yes it is she breathed I'll have to keep getting routine mammograms but I have a good feeling about things like I'm in the clear many times over the past several months birdie had found herself on her knees praying about her health after this recent mamogram it was like the dark clouds had cleared letting in the Blessed sunlight she felt peace flow into her mind and heart telling her that she would be okay all she had to do was hold on to those assurances that she'd received from Heaven Bird's mother had often told her that the greatest witness a person could ever receive was Heavenly peace spoken to the soul he reached across the table and caught hold of her hand sending a spark of awareness through her she liked the roughness of his callous hands and how her hand nestled so perfectly in his a resplendent smile overtook his features birdie got lost for a minute in the depth of his tender gaze I'm so glad he said softly in that melodic voice she loved B birie had always been wildly attracted to KNX it wasn't just his striking good looks that Drew her in but everything about him Knox never did anything halfway he had enough drive and ambition for 10 men she loved his unencumbered smile and the Deep laugh lines that fanned the edges of his eyes her feelings for KNX ran so much deeper than mere attraction she knew nox's frailties his hot temper that off got the best of him and how KNX could sometimes be rash charging full force without having all of the information beforehand she also knew his good heart and how he'd do anything for anyone including mopping the floor with Effie's bad boy ex-boyfriend even when it made Knox look like a loose cannon in front of fellow towns folk it was a good thing KNX didn't care a wit what people thought because he'd certainly not scored any brownie points today she met knox's gaze from across the table his teal eyes piercing her soul did she dare bring up the topic she was itching to discuss her heart drummed out a fast beat against her rib cage she swallowed the dryness in her throat as she tried to compile her thoughts I've been thinking a lot about the future and where we go from here surprise blipped over his features what do you mean the very air seemed to gather tension facing cancer has made me realize that life is fragile her voice cracked as she rushed on I'm glad that you and I are best friends but it's not enough I want more there it was she'd said it she'd thrown down the gauntlet and it was up to Knox to pick it up she could feel his reservations his nervousness it was frustrating she removed her hand from his I know this conversation makes you uncomfortable she snapped he held up a hand hold on don't jump to conclusions she sat back and folded her arms over her chest as she waited for him to continue his jaw worked birdie there's nothing that I want more than for us to be a real couple again her heart leapt with anticipation then what are you waiting for KNX didn't like to be pushed had the caner not come up she might have been willing to sit back and wait for KNX to make his move but things were different now she couldn't wait any longer to get on with her life his eyes deepened with doubt it's not just us that we have to think about what about the kids what about them they would be thrilled if if we got back together she didn't like how desperate she felt right now like she was dangling off the side of a cliff and hanging on to the Edge by her fingernails yeah he hedged providing that everything works out why wouldn't it work out she fired back a little too loud causing several people to glance in their Direction here is probably not the best place to discuss this he said meaningfully looking around she had to bite back the humorless laugh that issued from her throat Knox hadn't cared about causing a scene earlier either in front of the boutique or here in the restaurant with Leroy Martin Knox was avoiding the topic birdie leaned forward lowering her voice are you stalling because you're afraid that my depression might return she was tired of the white elephant between them it was time to get everything out in the open so they could deal with it for better or worse he reached for his napkin and began fiddling with it I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little concerned he gave her an apologetic look Cancer's not something that's easy to face especially when it took your mama and sister before she could launch a rebuttal he continued you need to know that I get it you have every right to be rattled by the cancer conviction sounded in his voice I know it rattled me I overcame my cancer her voice trembled I stared into the dark abyss and came out Victorious I've never been better emotionally or mentally Tears prickled In Her Eyes why can't you see that his expression grew agonized I can see it he said fiercely you're an incredible woman he paused several emotions that she couldn't read battling in his eyes I've held back because I wanted to give you adequate time to deal with the cancer I have dealt with it she cut in now I'm ready to move on her eyes pleaded with his we can't keep tiptoeing around our feelings for the rest of our lives I don't want to spend the rest of my life alone birdie was tired of going home to an empty house that was as silent as the morg what's the rush he asked smoothly things are good between us can't we just enjoy this time she gave him a Steely look I'm tired of waiting he swallowed his atam Apple zipping up and down in his throat if we get back together and it doesn't work out his voice faltered as he sucked in a breath it could rip our family apart when our marriage fell apart it nearly destroyed me his eyes clouded no matter how hard I tried I couldn't reach you I know she coked I was in a bad place but I'm not there now it was on the tip of her tongue to remind him that had he not had the affair she felt sure that they could have worked through her depression together however there was no sense in reopening Old Wounds his voice quivered with intensity I can't lose you again birdie I'd rather have you as a best friend than nothing at all her stomach balled into a hard knot it doesn't have to be one of the other we can have it all she wished he could see everything that was in her heart she'd give anything for Knox happiness is right in front of us she uttered hely all we have to do is reach out and grab it hello a cheerful cultured voice interrupted irritation flashed through birdie of all the times for someone to butt into the conversation she looked up as Christopher approached the table with a broad smile dressed in khaki pants a burgundy button-down shirt and loafers Christopher looked every bit the successful doctor that he was he had a thick head of blonde and silver hair that had just the right amount of wave to make it look perfect like he just stepped out of a photo shoot he was tanned a rarity for early spring in Tennessee Christopher loved to sail and had a boat that he kept docked in San Diego his Sparkling White teeth were so white they were almost blinding Christopher's appearance and demeanor were glossy and impeccable as opposed to Knox a rough Hune Cowboy that shouted raw masculinity any looking at Christopher would have been surprised to learn that he grew up in Franklin he exuded such a Cosmopolitan Vibe you look great Christopher said eyeing birdie with appreciation as he leaned in and gave her a PE on the cheek sheesh Christopher couldn't be any more overt right now birdie glanced at Knox not the least bit surprised by the irritation sparking like a Tinder Box in his eyes Christopher turned to Knox as if suddenly realizing he was there hello how are you he said with a polite reserved smile fair to midling Knox replied cooly an awkward silence passed Christopher had to know that Knox didn't much care for him it was painfully obvious to birdie why did Knox feel the need to be so belligerent to Christopher yes Christopher was developing a crush on her that was becoming obvious however Knox was holding all the cards all he had to do was say the word and birdie would gladly go running back into his arms I heard about the fight in front of the boutique Christopher began concerned touching his features as he turned his Focus to birdie is everything okay she forced a smile yes everything is fine a guy was harassing one of my employees Knox took care of the situation one of knox's greatest qualities was that he couldn't stand for Injustice in any form or fashion it was Noble of him to step up and so readily defend Effie Knox could be a prickly bear at times but he had a heart of gold that's what I heard Christopher replied throwing Knox a BL smile his head swung back and forth as he chuckled he balled his fist and held it up way to go Slugger he chanted the more things change the more they stay the same huh Knox always solving problems with those Iron Fists the words were spoken as a joke that fell miserably flat I do what's necessary knox's jaw went rock hard as he locked eyes with Christopher good thing they weren't Gunslingers at High Noon in the wild west else only one of them would be left standing the fight was over as fast as it began birdie inserted with a shaky laugh the last thing she wanted was for Knox to go on the Rampage in the restaurant Knox and his brother Dylan's real estate development company hinged on the brother's good reputation Knox had already beaten up one guy today and didn't need to add another to the list especially a prominent doctor also birdie didn't want Christopher to get pummeled he was her friend and she owed him a lot for helping her get through the cancer I still remember what it was like to be on the receiving end of those fists Christopher chuckled Knox just glared at him that was a long time ago birdie soothed with a tight smile we've all grown up since then haven't we right Christopher readily agreed Knox just cocked an eyebrow on graduation night from high school she and Christopher had attended a party Christopher had been drinking too much and tried to pressure birdie into sleeping with him to prove her love he got physical and they got into an argument Knox who was 3 years older was attending the University of Tennessee in Knoxville he'd come home for the weekend and was at the party when he realized what was happening between birdie and Christopher Knox came to Bird's Aid he and Christopher got into a fist fight which ended when Knox knocked Christopher out cold Christopher and birdie parted ways after that night and she and Knox started dating it was no wonder that Knox didn't like Christopher however the Christopher standing before her now was not the same man she dated in high school the grown-up Christopher was cultured distinguished the consummate gentleman it was time to let bygones be bygones she tried telling that to Knox but it fell on deaf ears Christopher laughed easily thank goodness for the wisdom that comes with age amen birdie boomed for the record KNX I don't blame you for punching me that night I deserved it Christopher gave birdie an apologetic look I'm only sorry that it ever came to that a contrite smile creased his lips I'm just glad that birdie gave me a second chance to prove that I'm not a complete loser that remains to be seen Knox muttered shock registered on Christopher's features but he was quick to recover I suppose you're right he said with a good-natured grin birdie shot KNX an exasperated look couldn't he see that Christopher was extending an olive branch here and Knox was splintering it into pieces with his belligerent tongue that was sharper than an axe blade what KNX grumbled she just rolled her eyes KNX knew exactly what he was doing Christopher cleared his throat as he turned to Knox did you get get my email about the list of final items that need to be fixed on my home yep Knox clipped drumming his fingers on the table the way he did when his mind was caught up in business I'll have one of my guys take care of it by the end of the week it was routine business for Knox to have a punch list of items a new homeowner wished to have fixed birdie was glad Knox was putting one of his workers on the task rather than doing it himself the less time Knox and Christopher bent around each other the better sounds great just have your guy text me before he comes that way I can make sure I'm home we'll do KNX looked Christopher in the eye was there something else that you needed birdie about died Knox was acting so rude the only indication of Christopher's discomfort was the slight redness of his face birdie shot knocks a warning look giving him the message to cut it out Christopher turned to birdie gracing her with a disarming smile did you get my flowers heat splashed over birdie as knox's face turned several Shades Darker she had to force the words from her throat yes thank you she gurgled she wished she could shrink down to a speck of dust and dissolve into nothing a few tense beats of Silence passed birdie Could Feel The Scorch of knox's hot eyes burning holes through her but she didn't dare look at him I'll see you tomorrow night at dinner then Christopher said with a hopeful expression as he touched her arm sounds good she said her voice sounding inestimably small and pathetic in her own ears until then Christopher responded giving KNX a Curt nod before striding away the fury burning in knox's eyes could have knocked down a dozen men his voice was soft and cutting the flowers were from one of your suppliers huh why did you lie to me Birdie's face was so hot that she feared it would burst into flames on the spot what do you think she snapped because I didn't want this to happen what he shot back I didn't want you to go nuts she gritted her teeth I wanted us to have a nice lunch so that I could tell you the good news about my mamogram you should have just told me the truth he said quietly she sucked in a quick breath I know she coked I should have she motioned at him it's just that I knew if I told you the truth you'd act exactly as you're acting now he rubbed a hand over his forehead his expression dripping with disgust you lied to me about tomorrow night about your hair appointment I do have a hair appointment tomorrow afternoon she squeaked and it probably will go a little later this had all gone so terribly wrong of all the rotten luck for Christopher to show up at the same restaurant where she and Knox were having lunch did Christopher have radar on her this was the third time she'd run into him this week before it had been at the grocery store and then the dry cleaners the town of Franklin had never felt so small or confining hurt simmered in knox's eyes is this how it's going to be between us lies and half truths he gave her an incriminating look were you planning on telling Zoe the truth or were you going to lie to her too about tomorrow night her throat felt thicker than cold syrup as she swallowed that's not fair you've put me between a rock and a hard place here indignation swell in her breast as she glared at him his eyes widened in disbelief so this is now my fault placing the flats of her Palms on the table she leaned forward lowering her voice Christopher and I are just friends she hissed enunciating every word in the hope that the message would get through nox's thick skull Christopher was there for me with the cancer why can't you understand that I his brittle laughter Cut Her Off short that scoundrel doesn't want you as a friend he growled drawing the attention from the people around them but it was obvious that Knox didn't care he's making a play for you birdie it's as plain as the nose on your face you just refuse to see it her back went ramrod straight As she met his glare full on just as you refuse to see that I'm tired of waiting around for you to make your move she'd learned over the years that the only way to deal with KNX was head on he had such a strong personality that she had to be strong and vocal otherwise she'd get completely mowed over is that what this is he growled some Twisted attempt to force my hand tears stung her eyes as she stumbled to her feet Knox Romeo you're a stubborn fool this isn't about Christopher it's about me and you she hissed if you can't understand how I feel then there's no use in me trying to explain it to you her heart felt like it was pressing in on itself don't do that he fired back do what you lie to me about the flowers and dinner with Christopher and now you're attacking me because I'm not ready to jump back into a tenuous relationship the minute you decide you're ready it's not fair she rocked back hurt pelting her like a thousand needles tenuous she stammered is that what we are her voice broke a shelf of Tears pressing behind her eyes she blinked trying to keep them at Bay would KNX always see her as a liability because of her past depression maybe there was no hope for them there was too much hurt and disappointment Knox Rose to his feet I'm sorry I didn't mean it like that he gave her a pleading look you just caught me off guard I need more time to process all of this she grunted a river of Rage running through her veins time you've had years she bent over and grabbed her purse tucking it underneath her arm before striding away wait Knox called after her she shook her head and kept going chapter 4 exerting all of his strength Knox wielded the sledgehammer hitting the tractor again and again sweat dripped from his forehead and his muscles achd from exertion but he kept pummeling the machine even the clinging of the metal couldn't drown out the Roar of the accusing voices in his head well it's official I think you've killed it Jackson said Dr Riley he's killed something lemon agreed with a hint of amusement KNX paused letting the weight of the sledgehammer fall to the ground as he kept hold of the handle mopping his forehead with the back of his free hand he turned to face Jackson and lemon what are y'all doing out here he demanded coming to check on you Jackson answered with a Ry grin we heard the commotion and figured we'd better come and see which of you would be left standing you or the tractor knock scowled I came out to see if I could get the dadgum thing started again he'd been working on the tractor before he broke away to have lunch with birdie after their argument he'd come back out to work on it then his temper took over here lemon held out a water bottle you look like you could use this thanks Knox released his hold on the handle of the sledgehammer letting it fall to the ground before taking the water bottle he popped the top and down the entire thing with a few swigs when he was done he wiped his mouth and crushed The Empty Bottle in his fist sweat stung his eyes he used his arm to wipe his brow before leaning back against the tractor you want to talk about it Jackson asked not really KNX said dowly Jackson pressed his lips together as he shoved his hands into his pockets I figured he paused is Mama okay knox's head snapped up what have you heard enough to know that you've had an eventful day first the fight in front of the boutique then the argument in mccc's Fish House how did you hear about the argument a look passed between Jackson and lemon before she spoke up Catherine Martin called asking if you and birdie were okay they were sitting near you at lunch KNX swore under his breath good gravy Leroy and Katherine need to mind their own business I should have cleaned Leroy Martin's clock when I had the chance Jackson arched an eyebrow are you going to fight the whole town or are you going to face what this is really about what are you talking about Knox growled Jackson's words were sounding suspiciously similar to what birdie had said his anger snarled like a rabid dog chewing at his insides he wanted to pound the tractor more or better yet he wanted to punch something Christopher Wallace flashed through his mind he wanted to knock that glitzy pretty boy into next week the trouble with birdie had started when Christopher wals back into her life Knox had known from day one that no good could come from Christopher's spearheading birdy's Cancer Treatments but she was determined to put the scallywag in the driver's seat it had been a long 10 months Knox had been worried sick about Bird's physical and emotional health while she wouldn't admit it she'd been in a tenuous situation emotionally when she first learned of her cancer it brought back all of the old demons about her losing her mom and sister Knox was relieved and elated that Bird's mamogram came up clean this time but what would happen the next time or the next he'd spoken the truth when he told birdie that he worried about how it would affect their kids if he and birdie resumed their relationship and then things were to go South all he was trying to do was give birdie enough time to come to grips with everything was that so bad it's not just birdie who needs to make peace with the past a cold shiver ran down his spine maybe we should go back to the house so we can talk about this Jackson suggested Knox dug his heels into the ground glaring at Jackson I'm not going anywhere Wild Horses couldn't drive him away from this spot simply because he was tired of other people trying to dictate his life he knew Jackson wasn't the enemy here but Jackson was determined to put himself in the line of fire Jackson didn't skip a beat the tone of his voice remaining amicable okay okay we'll have the conversation right here he looked Knox in the eye you want it straight here it is you're messing up big time with Mama the breath left knox's lungs as his eyes narrowed maybe you should mind your own business a smile crooked a corner of Jackson's mouth this is my business you do well to remember that I'm still your daddy Knox warned if anyone's going to do the lecture in here it's me the hair on the back of knox's neck Rose when Jackson and lemon looked at one another in Amusement while a part of him knew that he was being irrational he was so fighting mad that it was hard to see reason he didn't appreciate birdie backing him into a corner with her talk of not being willing to wait any longer Jackson scuffed his boots in the dirt before locking eyes with KNX just answer me one question Knox fenced a trap what's that do you love Mama the words rushed out of his mouth in a ball of frustration what kind of cocka M question is that of course I love her his voice quivered with ferocity I've always loved her Jackson gave him a Vindicated look then what are you waiting for put a ring on her finger and be done with it it's not that easy lemon protested that's right knock scumbled giving lemon an appraising look he eyed Jackson son there are things at play here that you know nothing about you should listen to your little lady lemon's eyes sparked what I meant by my comment was that you need to woo birdie she wants romance not just for you to slap a ring on her finger she cut her eyes at Jackson yeah wooing her is good too Jackson amended giving lemon a sheepish look Knox didn't like being called out on the carpet by his son and daughter-in-law what are you so afraid of Jack's impressed that Mama's cancer will come back while Knox and Birdie's kids had lived with the Fallout of their divorce there was no way for them to truly understand the depth of everything that happened and the emotional scars that it had left knock squeezed the crushed water bottle with one hand balling it in his fist while rubbing his neck with the other your mama got the results of her mamogram KNX saw the raw worry on Jackson and lemon's faces it came back clean he added quickly that's fantastic Jackson beamed with a large smile yes it is lemon agreed her voice going soft our prayers are being answered more reason for you and Mama to move forward with your plans Jackson urged KNX swallowed trying to find the right words to explain the situation without delving into the ugliness of it all when your grandma Sally died it put your mama in a dark place mild annoyance flickered over Jackson's face I know he sigh Grandma's death sent Mama spiraling into a dark depression I was there remember sympathy welled in knox's chest the divorce had hit Zoe and Jackson in the hardest the two of them being the oldest it hurts me to think of all the pain that your mama and I caused you kids that's why I want to be extra careful now regret Twisted knox's stomach into a hard knot he'd give anything to go back and change the past of course hindsight was 2020 Jackson came back with a surly we're grown now we can handle it I know y'all are tough but I don't want to reopen old cans of worms if we don't have to he clenched his jaw now's not the best time for me and birdie to start something up again she needs more time to deal with the cancer you just told us that the Cancer's gone Jackson piped in it is KNX flung back Jackson just wasn't getting it okay then what's the problem I had everything under control before that that slick Willie Walts back into Birdie's life trying to schmoo her I should have never let birdie talk me into selling a house to him I can't believe that dipwad is living in my development knock seeed I just wish that birdie could see that now's not the right time to start something up again maybe in a few more months his voice trailed off I get it lemon interjected you're scared Knox made a face h wash I'm not scared of anything he jutted out his jaw daring her to disagree her crystal blue eyes radiated compassion I totally understand where you're coming from when I found myself back in Franklin and reconnected with Jackson I was petrified a chuckle rumbled in her throat trust me when I say that falling back in love with Jackson was the furthest thing for my mind the timing was rotten my mind was a g in black hole not the most opportune time for romance she gave Jackson a radiant look and yet when love came knocking I had to answer the door a pleased as punch smile spread over Jackson's lips I'm eternally grateful that you did he slid an arm around her shoulders pulling her clothes Jackson took a big risk on Me Lemon continued giving Knox a pointed look as you know my Amnesia is hereditary her features tightened we hope it'll never come back but there are no guarantees your Amnesia was triggered by extenuating circumstances Knox argued brought on by the distress of learning that your mother had been murdered by a Madman Bingo Jackson asserted with a Checkmate look just as Mama's Depression was triggered by Grandma Sally's death m M also lost Jolie to cancer and yet she did okay when she was faced with it you have to give her credit where credit is due Knox pushed out a long breath this thing with your mama is different he blustered actually it's not lemon countered sassily her brows knitting it's very similar you love birdie and she loves you yeah the timing might stink but so what that's life May baby birdie would be better off with her Hot Shot doctor KNX sneered the more he was around Christopher Wallace the more he detested the guy knox's Instinct screamed that the man was a phony underneath his expensive clothes and fancy medical degree he was the same scumbag who tried to force birdie into a physical relationship to prove her Fidelity had Christopher been a real man and stated his intention to pursue birdie Knox would have still been ticked but at least he would have had a smidgen of respect for the man however to pray on birdie when she was most vulnerable to use her cancer as a way to get close to her was reprehensible lemon Shrugged indifferently well maybe she would be it's not every day that a woman's ex-boyfriend turns out to be a world-renowned doctor who helps her overcome cancer knock saw red as he swore he threw the plastic water bottle as hard as he could Christopher didn't help her overcome cancer the good Lord above did that and he's the one who should get the credit not that pompous crink puff who's got his nose stuck so far up in the air that he'll drown if it rains Christopher Wallace did his job plain and simple I don't see anyone giving me accolades for building a house or taking care of the ranch A sly smile stole over lemon's lips aha you do care she and Jack said and shared a knowing smile okay you've got me Knox admitted I care and I don't trust Christopher Wallace any further than I can throw the man there's something about him that screams foul maybe you should call Ramsay and have him look into Christopher Jackson suggested Knox was sorely tempted a former Navy SEAL Ramsay now headed up the security for Cash's Music Tour it was wonderful having having a son with such vast connections but Knox didn't want to take advantage of him nah I'd better not do that your mama would flip her gourd if she knew I was having Christopher checked out she'd chalk it up to me being a jealous Maniac good point Jackson agreed I'll call Ramsey and ask him to look into Christopher Wallace he flashed a nervy grin there's more than one way to skin a cat I'm not sure that's a good idea birdie was mad enough already Knox didn't want to add fuel to the fire Jackson Shrugged look at it this way if the good doc has nothing to hide then he'll be in the clear no harm no foul he paused if on the other hand he's a scoundrel mama will be glad that she knows the truth good point all right do it just keep me out of it we'll do now that knox's anger had drained he was getting chilled from the sweat he'd stormed out of the house without a jacket his anger fueling him now he wished he'd worn one while it was bright and sunny it was still cold outside spring might be coming soon but winter wasn't ready to relinquish her frigid hold on the land just yet the forecast was calling for several inches of snow this weekend and it just might happen the weather was so unpredictable this time of the year much like his life of late KNX thought gloomily Jackson raised an eyebrow his eyes sparking with Amusement okay now that we've gotten the business of Christopher out of the way the real question is what are you going to do about your feelings for Mama well I don't like being backed in a corner Knox grumbled why did Birdie have to draw a d Line in the Sand Knox would have worked his way into making a move eventually he was getting close to that point when the cancer came into play then he got spooked and started second guessing everything Old Demon surfaced bringing back all of The Angst his stomach nodded he didn't want to go back to that terrible time of uncertainty and yet he couldn't stand the thought of losing birdie he had to fight for her show her that he cared lemon gave him a wise look no one's backing you in a corner you're orx Romeo she let out a deviant chuckle use your charm to win birdie back she threw Jackson a playful grin we all know where Mr player here got all of his moves she nudged Jackson with her elbow that's all in the past jackon countered with a ruul grin I'm a changed man I know lemon said in the matter of fact tone of one who knew that Jackson was crazy about her she zeroed in on Knox the point I'm trying to make here is that you've got what it takes to win birdie back misgivings battled inside knocks churning his gut I don't know there was more to this than he wanted to divulge it bothered him that birdie had lied about the flowers and dinner his gut squeezed he couldn't stand the thought of Birdie having dinner with Christopher in a house that he'd built the irony Knox didn't want there to ever be any more secrets between him and birdie it was a slippery slope that he knew all too well from sad experience lemon blew out a frustrated breath have you not heard a word I've said you need to have faith in birdie I have no doubt that she'll beat the cancer you can't spend the rest of your life worrying about all of the Terrible Things That Could Happen she finished Jackson gave Knox an astute look he's not worried about what could happen he's worried about what did happen lemon rolled her eyes as she began talking with her hands I know that's what I've been trying to tell him at the risk of repeating myself he needs to have faith in birdie she's not the same person she was before Bird's one of the strongest people I know I don't believe for one minute that she'll slip into another depression and if she does well they can work through it together the same as you and I are working through our problems her voice hitched as she sucked in a breath her expression going rigid like she'd said too much what problems KNX asked carefully his gaze moving between them Jackson what's going on he demanded when they remained silent a look passed between Jackson and lemon finally lemon gave him a slight nod of approval lemon has had several miscarriages Jackson said with a Pang of sadness I knew you had one miscarriage but I didn't realize you'd had several I'm so sorry have you seen a doctor no sooner had the words left his mouth than Knox realized the irony here he was asking lemon if she'd seen a doctor while he just raked Christopher over the coals still the situation was different Knox didn't have anything against doctors just Christopher Wallace we have an appointment with the specialist next week good knock said heartily I'm sure you'll get to the bottom of it I hope so lemon side Jackson reached for her hand and squeezed it the gesture spoke volumes Jackson and lemon were a fantastic team even in the midst of lemon managing her shoe and accessories company it was impressive to watch how she and Jackson worked to build lemon's horse therapy business for youth it was going great guns now with them routinely booking up months in advance lemon had a keen sense for business as did Jackson back to birdie lemon began you need to forgive her for whatever happened in the past and move forward Jackson size knocks up with wise perceptive eyes it's not Mama that Daddy can't forgive it's himself the comment was a punch in the gut that knocked the wind clear out of him his eyes missed it as he swallowed Jackson was right on the money how had he discerned the true root of the problem Knox felt exposed like he was standing buck naked in a room full of people I don't understand lemon said dubiously looking to Jackson to explain daddy you goofed but you're not the same man you were before you've got to forgive yourself for the affair Jackson said gently tears burned knox's eyes one slipped from the rim of his eye and dribbled down his cheek hastily he wiped it away I hurt your mama bad his voice trembled I should have been there for her I was weak foolish anguish stabbed through his heart maybe I don't deserve another chance that's not true you're a great man KNX you can't keep beating yourself up for something that happened eons ago lemon gave him a censoring look you're a man of Faith do you not believe that the Lord died for your sins of course I do KNX shot back she arched an eyebrow well you're not acting like it Knox knew analytically that what lemon said was true it was his heart that was having a hard time getting the message he'd spent years trying to atone for what he' done he was ashamed that he'd not stood by birdie when she sped old into her depression KNX had taken her depression and inability to open up to him as a personal affront he started ruminating over his lost music career and how he'd given up everything for birdie and his family only to have Birdie turn away from him then Naomi stepped back into the picture Knox and Naomi had dated off and on in high school for Knox it was more of a casual thing but evidently Naomi was heartbroken when they broke up she took the opportunity to come into knox's life when he was at his lowest as easy as it would be to lay all the blame for the affair at Naomi's feet Knox had to own up to his part of the treachery the bottom line was that he'd messed up and he'd go to his grave regretting what he'd done lemon seemed to be reading his thoughts you've carried the burden of your sins long enough don't you think it's time to hand it over to the Lord listen to the the woman and quit wallowing in self-pity Jackson shot back with a grin suck it up you mamby pambi nox laughed in Surprise hey that's my line trust me I know I've heard it enough times in my life he pulled in a long breath lemon and Jackson had given him a lot to think about he was a God-fearing man he wanted to feel the lightness of having his affair forgiven he just couldn't shake the feeling that fate wasn't through with with him yet his turmoil had been worse ever since birdie got cancer a cold fear had been eating away at him he wondered if God was punishing him for his past mistakes he couldn't bear the thought of losing birtie she was his Rock his everything he was grateful that her mamogram had come up clean it cut him to know that birdie didn't feel that she could tell him the truth about the flowers or dinner admittedly he didn't take the news well but that was beside the point it didn't help that Christopher had sailed up to them at lunch and boasted about the flowers and birdie having dinner with him tomorrow night his thoughts went back to Naomi several months ago he'd gotten word from a former schoolmate that Naomi was sick a few weeks later she'd passed away hearing the news about Naomi brought back all of the old ghosts the last time he'd seen Naomi she'd been nearly inconsolable when he told her that it wouldn't work between them he confessed that he loved birdie and that he'd spend the rest of his days if necessary trying to win her back for him it had always been birdie he'd fallen in love with her on the spot that night at the graduation party when he came to her Aid and that love had grown by Leaps and Bounds over the years now it was a lifeblood that sustained him I recognized that look look Jackson drawled he met knox's gaze now go get your woman back Knox shook his head contemplating how it could be done your mama's a hard woman she's matter than a wet cat in a bucket of ice water I'm not sure how to get through to her Jackson's eyes sparkled in Amusement his voice ringing with full confidence you'll think of something you are Knox Romeo after all he was partially amused by Jackson's comment a corner of his mouth lifted yep for better or worse that I am chapter 5 hey there it's so good to see you Noel said as she caught birdie in a tight hug good to see you too birdie Drew back studying her niece who looked like she had a beach ball tucked under underneath her shirt how you doing Noel cradled her hands over her stomach I'm still here she chuckled the doctor says if I don't go into labor by next Tuesday he'll induce me I'm miserable and can't sleep a wink this one is active she's been kicking like crazy you be sure and have hold and call me the minute you go into labor birdie admonished I want to be there you'll be the first one we notify Noel assured her she pointed to the chair in her station have a seat birdie complied as Noel draped a cape arounder I assumed you wanted the usual right I've already got everything mixed yep birdie chimed you know me I love what you do to my hair if it ain't broke don't fix it amen Noel grin I'm glad I'm getting in before you have the baby thanks for working me in b bir's official appointment wasn't until next week but when birdie realized how close Noel was to her due date she asked if she could come in a few days early of course Noel answered nonchalantly it couldn't have been easy for Noel to work her in the salon was bustling with women chattering and laughing business looks like it's going well birdie observed it is I had to hire two new stylists to keep up Noel reached for a brush and began pulling it through Birdie's hair in Adept Strokes what'll happen when you have the baby Judy's going to handle the day-to-day operations of the salon I figure I'll be able to come back after a week to check on things I'll be in and out for a few weeks until I can officially get back on my feet birdie glanced over at the heavy set hair stylist with long curly blonde hair a station over Judy was tipping her head back and laughing heartily at something her client had said Judy worked with Noel at another Salon in town and had moved with Noel when she opened her own Salon Judy was one of Noel's closest friends birdie was glad her niece had a Dependable friend who could hold down the fort While She Was Out how's Aiden doing is he ready for his little sister to get here Noel laughed as she reached for a foil and began wrapping Bird's hair he still peeved that he's not getting a brother she brushed color onto the layer of hair before reaching for another sheet of foil I'll bet Noel's son Aiden was a Livewire he was so darn cute but he kept Noel hopping Aiden was from Noel's first marriage from what Noel had said Aiden seemed to be getting along well with his stepfather Holden have you decided on a name we have Noel gave birdie a tender smile Jolie a gush of emotion Rose inside of Birdie making her go teary eyed that's fantastic my sister would love that yes she would Noel agreed Noel looked at birtie through the mirror how are you doing she hesitated how's your health great my mamogram came up clean a large smile filled her face I found out yesterday I almost called you but thought I'd wait and tell you the news in person tears Rose in Noel's eyes that's fantastic news she put down the bundle of foils and draped her arms around birdy shoulders we've been praying for you Aiden won't let Holden or me utter a single prayer without remembering you I felt the power of those prayers birdie murmured patting Noel's hand she and Noel had always had a good relationship but they'd gotten super close when Noel moved back to Franklin a few years ago after her div Noel and Aiden lived with birdie up until Noel married Holden birdie missed having other people in her home her stomach tightened bringing back the realization that it was time for her to make some changes in her life Noel dabbed at her eyes before reaching for the foils and resuming her work hey is everything okay with Knox concern wrapped Noel's voice you heard about the fight yesterday birdie said flatly she nodded sorry to be a busy body but you know how fast news travels in here she twirled her hand encompassing the salon you know Effie my new employee that I told you about yeah the Superstar who's doing such a phenominal job Effie's ex-boyfriend came into the boutique causing a ruckus thank goodness Knox was there he kindly asked the guy to leave but when he didn't a giggle bubbled in Noel's throat oh no I see where this is going I heard that Knox pummeled some teenager but I knew there had to be more to the story she looked birdie in the eye that's why I called you last night to find out what was going on sorry I didn't answer birdie sighed heavily it was a rough day she was still so fighting mad at Knox he was a stubborn mule she'd thought he might call to apologize or stop by her house but he hadn't Christopher on the other hand had called to check on her he was kind solicitous asking if she was okay I could tell that I put you in an uncomfortable position when I asked you about the flowers and dinner he'd said that wasn't my intent I'm sorry birdie played it off like it was no big deal not wanting to discuss KNX with Christopher Noel frowned giving birdie a searching look what's going going on birdie tried to hold back the tears but she couldn't they burned in her eyes blurring her vision the last thing birdie wanted was to break down in the salon and have even more people gossiping about her and Knox Noel touched her shoulder tell me what's happening she prompted get a grip birdie commanded herself as she sucked in a deep breath trying to R in her emotions she waited until she was more in control R to speak I'm sorry I don't mean to put this on you a tear escaped and rolled down her cheek things are a mess right now with me and Knox we got into an argument yesterday she chuckled dryly as fast as news travels in this town I'm surprised you didn't hear about that too one look at Noel's expression told birdie that Noel had heard she scowled is nothing private in Franklin you know how it is here Noel Shrugged the good news is that people care the bad news is that people care birdie acknowledged the comment with a brief nod realizing that she wasn't as much upset about the gossip as she was with Knox whatever's going on you can work it out birdie pressed her lips together I'm not so sure hey this doesn't sound like the fearlessly optimistic birdie Romeo that I know weren't you the one who urged me to give hold in a second chance you should do the same for Knox I am birdie said hoarsely the difference here is that Holden wanted you back she paused trying to contain her emotion her lower lip trembled as she tried again Knox doesn't want me back Noel's face fell what that's the most absurd thing I've ever heard Knox is crazy about you anyone can see that Bird's voice went devoid of emotion as she gave Noel the highlights of yesterday's argument now that my cancer is gone I'm ready to start fresh I told Knox that I was tired of waiting around for him to act that I'm ready to move forward with my life she looked at Noel the gist of the situation is I want to start over with Knox but he's not ready she Shrugged a deep sadness overtaking her there you have it she said forcing her tone to go light does this have anything to do with Christopher Wallace birdie waved a hand in frustration yeah it does Knox can't stand Christopher and he resents me being friends with him Knox about came unglued yesterday when he realized that Christopher sent me flowers and that I'm having dinner at his place tonight Noel's eyes rounded what Christopher's my friend birdie said defensively he helped me through the cancer I owe him a lot yeah I get that but dinner and flowers Noel perched a hand on her hip as she leted out a low whistle wow no wonder Knox was ticked Knox is being an idiot about the whole thing birdie spouted Noel tipped her head thoughtfully what you and Knox have pretty much been in the same state as far as your relationship goes for years I know birdie shot back I'm ready to have something more than a close friendship and a mild flirtation also I want more than a dinner date and someone to go to family events with she bald her hand I want a husband I want someone to share everything with emotionally mentally and physically fresh anger torpedoed through her and she was about to launch into another tirade before Noel interrupted her does your sudden desire to get on with your life have anything to do with Christopher moving back to town of course not birdie snapped Noel gave her a doubtful look you sure about that Bird's cheeks warmed she looked down at her pants and flicked away an imaginary Speck of dust I'll admit it was nice to get a beautiful bouquet of flowers uh-huh that's what I thought bird's head shot up what Christopher's confusing things making you question your place with KNX it scares you so you're trying to force knox's hand Birdie's heart began to pound are you saying that I have feelings for Christopher she felt sweltering hot all of a sudden Noel raised an eyebrow do you a shaky laugh left Bird's throat as she clenched her hands Christopher's a kind and patient man Noel rolled her eyes yeah I get it he's a nice guy birdie rushed on is it wrong for me to want to be romanced Christopher's handsome successful he's been trying to talk me into going sailing with him in San Diego Noel's eyebrows Rose as friends of course she blustered Noel gave birdie a pointed look have you looked in the mirror lately what do you mean this conversation was making birdie intensely uncomfortable you're a beautiful woman birdie chuckled spoken by someone who could be my twin Noel flipped the ends of her hair well you know I just love giving myself compliments she said sweetly as she fluttered her eyelashes her expression grew serious as she punched out her words words for emphasis Christopher does not want a friendship with you he's pursuing you I don't blame Knox for being upset her voice hardened Christopher is your doctor you feel beholden to him and he's playing on those emotions that's not right Noel's mouth tightened for the record I don't appreciate him moving in on Uncle Knox all Knox would have to do is step up to the plate and this whole thing could be solved I'm sure he will you just have to give him time Birdie's eyes flew open wide time for what for me to grow older than Methuselah she gritted her teeth keeping her voice low so the people around them wouldn't over here I'm tired of waiting so you're going to settle for the wrong guy just because the right one's not ready Noel gave her a penetrating look take it from me that never works Works she wiped her hands on a nearby towel we're ready to put you under the dryer birdie moved to stand but Noel stopped her look I don't pretend to understand what you've gone through with the cancer I can understand you wanting to get on with your life just promise me one thing what's that don't make any rash decisions where Christopher Wallace is concerned I won't birdie said irritation stirring inside her Noel arched an eyebrow do you think it's wise to have dinner with Christopher tonight birdie wasn't sure what to think about anything anymore I don't know she admitted feeling weary to the Bone she'd slept poorly the night before tossing and turning as she fretted about Knox just when she nearly drifted off to sleep she'd heard a noise that startled her back awake she'd gotten up and checked house relieved that everything was in order she wondered if maybe a tree branch broke and hit the roof normally she would have called KNX to come and check out the noise but she couldn't very well do that now maybe she should just swear off men altogether and resolve herself to spending the rest of her life alone she had the boutique her kids and grandkids her thoughts went to something that Zoe had told her Jackson and L were going through a tough time birdie knew about lemon's one miscarriage but she hadn't realized that lemon had several a twinge of guilt went through her she prided herself on being close to all of her kids and yet Jackson hadn't told her about the miscarriages maybe he didn't want to add any stress due to her cancer that was understandable and yet she couldn't help but feel left out Zoe had told her that Knox knew about the miscarriages having just learned about it yesterday birdie felt an overwhelming longing to talk to Knox about it so they could decide how to best support Jackson and lemon herein was the problem Knox was her best friend no more than that he was the father of her children their lives were so intertwined already that she didn't understand why he was so hesitant to make it official was it the physical relationship part that Knox was worried about she went Stone Cold as a sudden thought struck her maybe Knox wasn't attracted to her anymore she tried to push the intrusive thoughts away as she turned her Focus to what Noel was saying just be careful Noel warned I don't trust Christopher Wallace he seems sneaky like he's hiding something not you to birdie moaned Zoe had called just before birdie stepped into the salon she and lemon had been talking Zoe knew all about the flowers and dinner with Christopher I don't trust him Zoe had said be careful I'm a big girl I think I can handle dinner birdie snapped Jiminy Cricket sometimes she felt like she was living in a fishbowl do yourself a favor don't wait too long to make up with Knox yall belong together I would wish somebody would tell him that indignation burned through Birdie's veins that man makes me mad enough to chew Nails Noel's eyes danced see he elicits strong emotion that's good he elicit something birdie huffed I'll bet you've never had such strong feelings for Mr smooth talker no well quipped no one gets my goat like Knox he could make a preacher cuss exactly Noel's hands went into the air that means he's the one a begrudging smile tipped Bird's lips I'm not sure how sound your logic is but okay Noel laughed just wait you'll see that I'm right her voice quivered with emotion I've never seen any two people who were more right for one another than you and Knox promise me that you'll give him another chance okay birie relented I'll give him another chance she said dutifully she held up a finger but I'm still going to Christopher's house tonight for dinner she'd already cancelled with Zoe and she had no intention of sitting home alone pining away for Knox chapter six her heart in her throat birdie punched the doorbell waiting for Christopher to answer after leaving the hair salon she'd gone home to change clothes and freshen up her makeup several times she'd almost called Christopher to cancel all the while she was getting ready she kept hoping she'd hear from Knox but no such luck birdie and Knox communicated on a regular basis she couldn't remember the last time she'd gone a day without hearing from him if he didn't contact her by tomorrow she supposed she'd have to swallow her pride and call him she'd use Jackson and lemon as an excuse after all she and Knox needed to figure out how to help them she glanced down at her green sweater and beige slacks she'd chosen her outfit carefully making sure that she looked nice but not overdressed Christopher opened the door with a large smile hello his gaze flickered over her you look beautiful thanks thanks she murmured for some reason a scene from the day before flashed through her mind and she saw nox telling her she was beautiful at the boutique a Pang of longing ran through her why had KNX not called or texted Christopher ushered her in the aroma of cooking food tingled birdie senses something smells good I hope it tastes good did you cook I did I'm impressed she smiled inwardly thinking of how helpless Knox was in the kitchen it was a good thing that he had Gino working for him or else he would starve let me take your coat Christopher reached to help her out of it in the process his hand brushed against her hair the close contact felt awkward discreetly birdie moved away from him as she stepped from the foyer into the spacious living room your place is looking great it's starting to come together Bird's gaze took in the tall ceiling with the open beams and the stacked stone fireplace that went to the ceiling there were handsome built-in bookcases on either side of it the five-piece crown molding framing the top of the wall and the intricate details on the bookshelves were evidence that no expense had been spared this development was the crown jewel of all the developments that Knox and Dylan had built birdie stepped over to get a better look at the framed pictures on the mantle there were several pictures of a dark-haired Beauty with big brown eyes one photo was of her skiing she was at the beach in one and what looked to be a cabin in another Christopher stepped up beside her pointing that's my daughter Cassie the younger one Alice doesn't like having her picture taken Natalia was Christopher's late wife a Pang of sympathy went through birdie while birdie hadn't outright asked Christopher about his marriage she knew Through the Grapevine that Christopher was Natalia's second husband Cassie and Alice weren't Christopher's actual daughters but it was obvious that he was fond of them not every man would display photos of his stepdaughter on the mantle interesting that he referred to the girls as his daughters rather than stepdaughters she looked for a photo of Natalia but there wasn't one maybe it was too painful for him to have her picture displayed some people dealt with grief by surrounding themselves with memorabilia of their loved ones While others banished all traces of them in Bird's case she made sure to put up lots of pictures of her mother and sister in her home where are Cassie and Alice now Cassie's at NYU studying anthropology Alice is in Naples Florida attending Walden University she's studying to be a dental hygienist I'll bet you miss them I do his face lit up they're coming for a visit on Easter that's wonderful she wondered what type of relationship Cassie and Alice had with their actual father but she didn't dare ask Christopher motioned come into the kitchen she followed him into a large area painted a creamy white Christopher went over to the stove and stirred something in a pot I hope you like chicken marsala I do birdie was impressed that Christopher would make something so complex can I do anything to help nope it's almost done he pointed to the bar stools around the island have a seat The Fragrant scent of baking bread wafted through the room when he opened the oven and removed a crusty loaf of garlic bread the kitchen was an open floor plan that flowed into a dining area a modern fireplace that was open on two sides divided the space a neat row of orange and blue flames flickered amidst smooth black rocks Knox had spoken of his desire to create a space that was both modern and homey he'd done it the home was incredible the table was expertly set with play settings and all the trappings two tall silver candlesticks holding cream colored candles flanked a large glass vase of red roses soft music played in the background Christopher had certainly pulled out all the stops he was dressed in black trousers and a button-down black silk shirt birdie couldn't help but notice the contrast between Christopher and Knox if Knox could see Christopher now he'd certainly think he was a cream puff she stifled the giggle that Rose in her throat when he'd finished the dinner preparations Christopher stepped over and peered into her eyes the only way she could describe his expression was was worshipful she had to fight the urge to draw back and put space between them he reached for her hands cupping them in his his skin was so soft and smooth that it wigged her out a little she was used to knox's Working Man Hands thanks so much for coming to my humble abode the open pride in his voice was so in congruent with his words that she couldn't help but chuckle if this is a humble abode I'd hate to see a mansion a deep flush crept into Christopher's cheeks making her regret her words she was so used to bantering with knocks and speaking her mind that she hadn't thought twice about doing the same with Christopher obviously he was more sensitive I'm just teasing she said trying to ease his tension he smiled but it seemed forced I'm just glad you're here he pushed back a lock of her hair that had fallen across her face you are so beautiful he uttered she blinked in Surprise as a jolt of panic surged through her should she take this opportunity to set things straight and lay down firm lines of friendship as Furious as she was with Knox there was no way she could jump into a relationship with another man she wouldn't even know where to start Knox the kids and grandkids were her world ever since leaving the salon birdie had been mulling over something Noel said was Christopher taking unfair advantage of her as her doctor he wielded a sense of authority it was only natural that she would be in awe of him birdie didn't like thinking of herself as a victim her thoughts took another Direction Christopher was so different now that she could hardly believe he was the same person she dated in high school maybe she should open up a conversation about their former classmates so they could reestablish some form of familiarity right now he felt more like a stranger than her former boyfriend why had she agreed to come here tonight why he searched her face is everything okay she offered a tight smile of course he frowned you seem a little tense she pushed out a breath no sense in postponing the inevitable Christopher I appreciate apprciate everything you've done for me she glanced at the elaborately set table the flowers yesterday dinner tonight everything was so perfectly put together she couldn't have done a better job herself she paused searching for the right words it's all just a bit much right now my life is so complicated his features tensed with KNX yes she said simply a shadow crossed his features I get it you have a long history with Knox he's a large part of your past I want to be your future his eyes had a dreamy quality he gazed at her like she was the greatest thing since buttered biscuits birdie didn't know if she should be worried or flattered Christopher was such a handsome man his nose was thinner and more sculpted than she remembered also he had a stronger jaw his teeth hadn't been as white or so perfectly straight in high school she wondered if he'd had plastic surgery it was plausible especially in his field you're a wonderful friend birdie began is this the part where you tell me that we can never be anything but friends he gave her a pained smile yes she admitted wincing at the disappointment emanating from his hazel eyes it was better to tell it to himself straight that way there would be no misunderstandings or hurt feelings she braced herself waiting for his reaction to his credit he took her rejection and stride as a pleasant smile nestled like a soft cotton blanket over his lips you don't have to reach any conclusions tonight let's just have dinner she relaxed okay she could see the congenial doctor coming out in Christopher he'd probably had to talk many a patient down off the ledge especially when it came to cancer the Christopher in high school had a short fuse but the new and improved Christopher seemed to have the patience of Job his bedside manner was impeccable dinner was excellent the conversation drifted from people they knew in high school to Christopher's profession he grew animated when he talked about his work and she could tell that he derived much satisfaction from helping his patients are your parents still in Florida the last she'd heard they retired there my mom is my dad passed away six years ago from a massive stroke I didn't realize her voice faltered I'm so sorry it's been tough on Mom sadness washed over his handsome face Christopher's features were almost too perfect they had to be surgically altered he looked like a walking kend doall do you get down to see her often I'm planning a trip to Tampa this summer he motioned at her empty plate can I get you anything else no I'm good you're quite the chef that's some of the best chicken marsala I've ever had if you get tired of being a doctor you could always trade your stethoscope for a spatula she expected him to at least give her a courtesy smile for her joke but it seemed to go over his head thank you he said with a magnanimous nod I'm glad you enjoyed it there was a formality about Christopher that kept Birdie on pins and needles she wondered if Christopher ever allowed himself to just kick back and relax his house was spotless from what she could see on the main level there wasn't so much as a toss pillow or picture frame out of place she didn't want to make Christopher uncomfortable but she wanted to know more about his deceased wife Natalia tonight was as good of a time as any she supposed to ask Christopher sat back in his seat the flicker of the candles washed the room in a mellow glow tell me about Natalia birdie implored if her memory served her correctly it had been a couple of years since Natalia passed Christopher's jaw tightened a fraction like he was uncomfortable then his eyes took on a far away look she was an angel the most Exquisite woman I've ever seen he jerked as if realizing what he just said no offense to you he added none taken it was an odd thing to say why would she be offended I think it's wonderful that you loved your wife she said with conviction I feel the same way about Knox her mind inserted she grinned inwardly KNX would be appalled if he heard her tagging him as Exquisite maybe that wasn't a good word for him Cowboy Maverick impulsive short-tempered irritating and thrilling were the first words that came to mind she realized that Christopher was watching her with a strange expression almost as if he knew she was thinking about KNX her mind scrambled to find the point in conversation where they were what happened to Natalia she blurted he gave her a funny look a car accident I thought you knew she she waved a hand I know she had a car accident but what happened she paused giving him a tentative look if you don't mind me asking the change in him was instantaneous his eyes glistened as he shifted in his seat he brought his fist to his mouth birdie could tell that he was wrestling with some tough emotions she felt guilty for bringing up something that would upset him I'm sorry I shouldn't be asking you this no it's okay he let out a breath I want you to understand what happened the way he spoke the words made her feel like he was trying to tell her that she was significant in his life tight cords of unease wrapped around her chest Christopher wasn't getting the message that she just wanted to be friends tonight would be the last time she had dinner with him from now on she would keep her distance so she could put him in the friend zone once and for all are you familiar with the town of Signal Mountain outside of Chattanooga I am that's a beautiful area it is he sighed but the roads leading up to it are treacherous he paused his features pulling tot Natalia was going down the W Road a winding road that cuts down the backside of the mountain the road got its name because the hair pin curves at the top form the shape of a W his voice hitched it was dark and sleeting Natalia was going too fast her car went off the side of the mountain a sense of horror overtook birdie that's terrible I'm so sorry her words sounded empty in her ears she wished there was more she could do or say anguish twisted over his face I still can't believe she's gone he put his fist to his mouth again a second later he removed it as he continued the hardest part was telling Cassie and Alice that their mother was gone tears slipped down his cheeks I'm so sorry birdie said again sympathy W in her breast she couldn't imagine all of the pain and suffering Christopher had endured if anything ever happened to Knox she didn't know what she would do he reached for his napkin and used it to wipe away his teeth tears I'm sorry he took in a quick breath as a regretful smile touched his lips life can be a real kick in the pants sometimes laughter gurgled in her throat it was the most downto Earth genuine comment Christopher had made all evening he cocked his head his eyes taking on a peculiar light you hear that Frank Sinatra she realized that he was referring to the song playing in the background he scooted back his chair stood and went around the table holding out his hand may I have this dance now she coked she was still too caught up in the sadness of him losing Natalia to dance he'd certainly shifted gears fast his expression remained congenial but she sensed a trace of impatience in him as he waited for her to answer okay she relented as she stood he pulled her into his arms and began twirling her around the room Knox was the only other man she'd ever danced with it was strange dancing with Christopher his movements were forceful and jerky whereas Knox moved with such an easy Grace that she felt like she was gliding when she was in his arms Christopher pulled her close and hummed softly in her ear the moisture of his breath against her skin repelled her she couldn't take this anymore she had to get out of here she Drew back Christopher I need to be getting home he acted as if he didn't hear her her stomach about dropped through her rib cage when he dipped her back sending blood rushing to her head finally he stood her back on her feet okay that's enough she said forcefully as she extricated herself from his arms his face fell what's wrong nothing a tight smile wrapped her lips it has been a wonderful evening I just need to get home I have to be at the boutique early tomorrow I'm sure you have an early morning also with your work the doorbell rang Christopher frowned I wonder who that could be hold on I'll be right back birdie felt a sense of relief when he left the room Christopher was way too controlling for her taste also his behavior was strange one minute he was talking about Natalia like he was about to break down crying and the next he was up dancing she went to the bar stool and retrieved her purse now would be a good time to make her departure while Christopher was occupied she heard Christopher's angry voice first this is outrageous he asserted you pick tonight at 8:30 in the evening to come here and fix things yep that's how it worked out another man responded pleasantly Bird's heart skipped a beat as she shook her head a grin moving over her lips she'd recognized that melodic voice anywhere Knox had come here tonight to take care of Christopher's punch list she should have been irate at Knox for intentionally wrecking dinner but knowing that he cared enough to come sent ribbons of pleasure streaming through her you'll have to come back later Christopher said in a clipped tone now is not a good time time she hurried out of the kitchen and to the foyer hello she said as she stepped up to the two men hey KNX said with a boyish grin that made her heart sputter birdie felt wildly happy that he was here the Romantic in her pictured him as her hero coming to rescue her from the awkward evening Christopher's face looked like a ripe tomato about to explode birdie turned her attention to Knox what are you doing here she asked even though she already knew the answer it was all she could do to contain her smile her heart was light enough to sprout wings and fly Rainey mlan was supposed to come out here today and knock out the punch list but Clara's down with the flu oh wow Clara is rainey's wife she explained to Christopher in a bubbly tone Rainey couldn't leave Clara at home with the kids Knox continued so I came out a good-natured grin slid over his lips you know the old saying the best way to get the job done is to do it yourself I never got a text from anyone saying they'd be out today Christopher protested his voice stiff with suspicion knox's brows Drew together really well Shucks somebody's falling down on the job you should have he pointed I'll just get started in the kitchen Christopher held out a hand no you won't knox's voice took on an edge your email requested that the items be done immediately Christopher pushed a hand through his hair during normal business hours not when I'm in the middle of dinner he gave birdie a frustrated look as if he expected her to do something it's okay she said smoothly I was just leaving I have an early morning at the boutique you don't have to leave because of him he shot KNX a scathing look I'm not she said firmly Christopher's eyes widened but you haven't had dessert his voice had a whiny pleading Edge ever since Christopher had re-entered her life she'd only been around him in short spurts until tonight maybe it was a good thing she'd had dinner with Christopher so she could realize how incompatible they were even if Knox never came around she could never be with a man like Christopher while he was a good guy he was laced up too tight for her also something about him was off she couldn't put her finger on what it was birdie recognized the pleased look on nox's face as they caught eyes she felt a rush of tender awareness as tangible as electricity that's how it was with her and noox merely being in his presence titilated her senses you know what KNX began speaking to Christopher I owe you an apology for what Christopher asked wearily I shouldn't have come out this late I'll come back at a more reasonable time you're unbelievable Christopher seeded Knox jutted his thumb toward the door as he gave birdie a lopsided grin if you're leaving now I can walk you out I'll walk her out Christopher interjected she's my date birdie br whistled at the same time she saw Fury streak across knox's face we're just friends she reminded Christopher yeah that's what I meant he said lamely KNX motion toward the door with his head happy to leave birdie propelled her feet forward Knox placed a hand on her back leading her out the gesture felt so natural that it nearly moved her to tears she and Knox certainly had their share of problems but they belonged to together she threw Christopher a glance over her shoulder thanks again for dinner he just shook his head and closed the door when they reached her car KNX turned to face her a smile stole over her lips seriously a punch list at 8:30 at night I had to do something to get your attention she laughed well you got it he gave her a wey look are you ticked at me for interrupting your dinner I should be she soaked in the lines of his rugged features nox's nose had been broken several times he joked that it gave him character his teeth were more of a bone white tone rather than sparkling in other words he was real she loved that he wasn't Picture Perfect he was rough around the edges and distinctly masculine he excited every inch of her but I'm not I'm relieved actually surprise flitted over his features really really she grimaced remind me to never do that again Christopher's a nice guy but dinner was awkward a pleased smile spread over his face you have no idea how much I love here and that laughter spread through her like warm sunshine as if it had a mind of its own her hand went up to touch his hair here you're still not off the hook Mister the edges of his eyes tightened I know about what I said at the restaurant I'm sorry the sincerity of his words wrapped her in warmth as she took a step closer to him her cells swirling with a heady attraction there was just enough light from the fingernail Moon above for her to see the flicker of desire in his eyes it sang sweetness to her soul her lips parted on instinct as his arm encircled her waist Knox was all she had time to utter as his lips took hers he pushed her up against the car keeping her purse tucked beneath her arm she clung to him her hands clutching his soft flannel shirt Sparks exploded through her as their lips moved together in a practiced dance of fire memories from before flooded over her melding with the present she'd been hungry for KN for so long his fresh clean scent enveloped her sending her spirit soaring to the heavens above the kiss was everything she'd been hoping for and more when they pulled apart her chest rose up and down as she gasped for air I've missed this so have I his eyes roved over her face as he cued her cheeks in the palms of his hands you are everything to me he said fiercely tears sprang to her eyes as you are to me we'll work everything out he promised that's all she'd been wanting to hear she nodded resting her forehead against his I love you for so long she'd wanted to say those words I love you too she closed her eyes reving in the moment then it occurred to her where they were she glanced back at Christopher's house the door was closed and thankfully the front lights were turned off still it was bad form to be out here kissing KNX we should go KNX said reading her thoughts he gave her another soft kiss she melted into the tender warmth of his lips tomorrow night let's talk my house sounds great 7:00 he helped her into the car before he closed the door she placed her hand on his arm Knox yeah I'm Glad You Came tonight he gave her that lopsided grin that she so loved me too she sighed content in the knowledge that everything was finally coming together as it should chapter 7 how you doing little darling KNX said with a nod as he stroe up to the counter where Effie was standing he scowled at the Monstrous bouquet of flowers that Christopher had gotten birdie good she replied blinking several times her cheeks going pink birdie was always singing Effie's Praises saying that she was hands down the best employee she'd ever had Effie seemed like a good kid from what Knox could tell but she was cagier than a cornered Goose his jaw tightened is that scoundrel of a weasel leaving you alone so far so good I'm glad to hear it tightening his hold on the bundle of flowers tied with a pink ribbon he glanced around looking for birdie where's my beautiful lady she went up to Zoe's Gallery Zoe has the baby with her Knox grinned ah makes sense Zoe's Gallery was only a few doors away from the boutique Knox wasn't the least bit surprised that birdie was visiting mea Birdie doed on her grandkids he looked at Christopher's Flowers an idea taking shape the face was nice placing his flowers on the counter he pulled the bouquet close before grabbing the flowers with both hands he walked a couple of steps depositing them in the garbage Effie's jaw hit the floor what are you doing a nervous laugh skittered from her throat as her hand encircled her neck um birdie might not be happy with you oh I don't think she'll mind he placed the bundle of yellow tulips into the vase and adjusted the ribbon a second later he stepped back to admire his handiwork much better KNX hadn't told birdie he was stopping by she was planning on them getting together tonight but he couldn't resist coming by earlier his heart expanded 10 sizes thinking about their kisses the night before the passion was still alive and well burning just as bright as it always had tonight was the night he was going to make things right with birdie he'd been walking on air all day the Tulips are beautiful Effie observed they're bird's favorite she reached out and rubbed her thumb over the pink ribbon this is a nice touch Knox perched his elbow on the counter as he crossed one leg over the other the night I fell for birdie she was wearing a pink ribbon in her hair his mind drifted back to the past I was home from college it was graduation night for the high school a buddy of mine talked me into going to a party I went outside by the pool I looked over and saw birdie he smiled remembering the last time I'd seen her she was practically a kid but that night I realized she'd grown up she was incredible her blonde hair flying and green eyes flashing fire you mean flashing fire as in upset he nodded why his eyes narrowed Christopher was trying to get fresh with her the look of shock on Effie's face caused KNX to chuckle yep good old Christopher and I have a long sorted history we had a few words before coming to an understanding he balled his fist holding it up Effie sniggered in understanding before tucking a lock of hair behind her ear are you and birdie back together yes ma'am he piped with a large grin last night had been revolutionary kissing birdie had rolled back time revving up his desire for her even more she gave him a hesitant look is that wise for a second he wondered if he'd heard her correctly I beg your pardon his insides pulled tot as he locked eyes with her why would you say that she began blinking fast her face flaming I'm sorry she stammered I meant no disrespect I just know that y all have a crazy history he frowned his senses going on full alert what are you getting at this was a strange conversation what dog could Effie possibly have in this fight she looked down never mind she mumbled I'd like to hear what you have to say her behavior rankled him if she was determined to poke The Hornet's Nest then then she was going to have to face the repercussions her eyes lifted as she searched his face really yeah he was taken back by The Faint challenge in her expression did Effie have some sort of allegiance to Christopher she sucked in a deep breath birdie told me about the affair with your childhood sweetheart Naomi the breath gushed out of knox's lungs what he felt like he'd been sucker punched why would birdie tell her employee about something so personal he felt naked and exposed her head swung back and forth I shouldn't have said anything why did you he fired back she gave him an accusing look because berd's a good person and I don't want to see her get hurt a hard Amusement simmered in his gut was this a case of females banding together to wage a crusade against villainous men he grunted I get it you've been hurt by that nitwit ex-boyfriend of yours who couldn't punch his way out of a wet paper bag but that doesn't mean that all men are bad her brows furrowed that's not what I'm saying at all he fought to keep his voice even why don't you quit beating around the bush and tell me what's on your mind her eyes sparked as she lifted her chin what happened to Naomi he wondered if he should just turn around and leave he didn't owe this girl an explanation and he certainly didn't like discussing something so personal with a stranger Naomi and I parted ways after the affair she moved away and I never saw her again where is she now dead he said flatly she passed away a few months ago he cocked an eyebrow while I appreciate your loyalty to birdie this is none of your business she shouldn't have said anything to you he'd been flying high when he came into the boutique now he felt like he had a block of cement in his gut the chime over the door sounded Knox turned his jaw clenching as Christopher strolled in wearing a friendly expression hello he began Knox nodded in response his temperature ratcheting up several notches the man was relentless in his pursuit of Birdie what are you doing here KNX growled don't you have some important doctorly work to do Christopher's eyes hardened but his voice remained Pleasant I'm on my way to the clinic now by the way I got a call from your employee he's coming out tomorrow afternoon good Knox clipped I'm glad yall connected Knox was ready to get the infernal punch list done so he could be done with Christopher Wallace once and for all how you doing Christopher said to Effie is birdie here no she's not Knox answered not offering any further explanation Christopher cleared his throat and then an awkward silence passed about last night I saw you and birdie kissing by her car a hard Amusement circled knox's throat as he folded his arms over his chest waiting to see what else Christopher would say the audacity of this man was a sounding as if Knox had to explain himself for kissing birdie what he and birdie did had nothing to do with Christopher no hard feelings I guess the better man won KNX straightened his spine there has to be a competition for someone to win Knox countered birdie belongs with me the certainty of his words sank deep into his bones like life sustaining marrow if Christopher Wallace knew what was good for him he'd cut bait and move on if not KNX had no DRS about facing him head on come what may color seeped into Christopher's face as a cordial smile creased his lips the reason I came by is because I'm having a little housewarming party on Saturday and I wanted to invite birdie and you of course he looked at Effie you should come too really she asked in Surprise yes I'd love to have you it starts at 7:00 p.m. not the best night to have a party Knox retorted it's supposed to snow Christopher blinked as if just now noticing the yellow tulips Knox felt a ping of satisfaction wondering if Christopher realized that his flowers had been replaced Christopher shot Knox an exasperated look I'm trying to bury the hatchet but you're not making it easy Knox chuckled surprised by Christopher's cander I suppose I'm not he settled down a fraction KNX appreciated plain talk much more than Christopher's usual squirly subterfuge I hope you all will come Christopher said with a nod as he turned on his heel and left that went well Effie said cheerfully KNX stroked his chin yeah I reckon it did a little too well he frowned I wonder what that that sneaky snake is up to Effie Shrugged he seems sincere I don't trust that man he muttered mostly to himself a second later he turned eyeing Effie you were pretty quick to defend Christopher what's your connection with him her eyes flew open wide I don't have any connection with him she said indignantly shooting him a scalding look and I don't appreciate you insinuating that I do he chuckled L impressed to see the girl had some fire in her belly all right he said easily don't get your pants in a wad I was just checking to make sure just because I'm concerned about Bird's well-being does not mean that I'm championing Christopher Effie snipped I think Christopher's a twit birdie deserves better than him also her use of the word also let him know that she still disapproved of him well he could live with that there were plenty of other people who probably disapproved too birdie was the only one who mattered I'll be the first to admit that I've made lots of mistakes his stomach tightened I'll spend the rest of my days regretting my Affair he locked eyes with Effie birdie is a part of me his voice hitched I love her and I need her he swallowed as he shoved his hands into his pockets I'll spend the rest of my days doing my darnest to prove it to her Effie's jaw worked as she nodded before looking away he grunted I don't know why I'm even explaining myself you don't have a dog in this fight his eyes narrowed don't think for one minute that because birdie told you about my Affair that you know everything about me or birdie he sucked in a breath more than done with this conversation tell birdie that I'll see her tonight he said as he stroe out of the boutique by the time the evening rolled around knox's nerves were jumping like a bucket of crickets birdie had sent him a text an hour ago telling him that she couldn't wait to see him he tightened his hold on the steering wheel his mind running through all of the things he wanted to talk about with birdie first of all he wanted her to understand that yes he had been concerned about what her having cancer could potentially do to her emotional state however the root of the problem was him and his struggle to forgive himself for the affair Knox didn't go in for the touchy feely crap where people sat in a circle and discussed their emotions he'd fa down a dozen foes using his fists rather than talking about his inner feelings however tonight he was going to have to open up he grimaced at the thought he just had to keep the end goal in mind if it got him birdie in the end then the sole bearing would be worth it the pickup truck in front of him was creeping along at 30 m an hour the tag was from Illinois it was dark and the driver probably wasn't familiar with the winding roads knox's impatience mounted when the truck slowed down to 25 M an hour seriously he muttered he eased off not wanting to ride the GU tail finally after what seemed like forever they reached a straight section of Highway where Knox could pass pass as he went to do so the guy swerved into the middle of the road blocking his way KNX swore as he gripped the steering wheel and clamped down on his brakes to keep from barreling into the pickup blinding lights flashed in his rear view mirror before the vehicle behind whipped around driving beside him Knox was pinned in the truck in front slowed as the two vehicles coralled Knox off to the side of the road knox's temper ignited in a Flash like a match touching dry grass he threw open the door of his truck and got out the guy in front did the same he was a medium height Burly guy wearing a ski mask and a ball cap his hair was long and unruly beneath the cap what's the problem Knox demanded they weren't 5 miles from the ranch Knox had driven these roads all his life so he hadn't thought twice about jumping out to confront the issue he thought of his pistol in the glove box he should have thought to grab it before jumping out his anger had gotten the better of him he glanced back to see where the other guy was he was still sitting in his truck it was with a sinking heart that Knox realized that he was also wearing a mask the Burly guy spit on the ground before tugging at his jeans to pull them up over his large belly you think you can go around pushing people around and get away with it he sneered I'll show you old man he charged toward Knox and threw his fist for a punch but Knox easily deflected the attempt the guy was clumsy Knox wondered if the guys were trying to get retribution for him fighting Effie's ex-friend the man let out a cry and charged full on into Knox slamming him back against the grill on the front of his truck he punched Knox in the eye pain streak through Knox as a head lobbed back from the force the guy was strong Knox had to give him that Fury took hold burning adrenaline through knocks as he gave the guy a right hook hitting him in the bread basket with his left fist the guy stumbled back grunting in Surprise on Instinct Knox gave him a series of more rapid punches he heard movement as the other guy came up from behind and grabbed Knox in a choke hold Knox elbowed the guy in the ribs as he tried to extricate himself from the grasp the guy was choking off his air KNX struggled and had just broken free when the ball cap stepped up to help his buddy he popped Knox hard in the stomach knocking the wind out of him he doubled over as the guy from behind clocked him in the kidney the blows were Relentless as they came at knocks from both directions exerting all the torque he could muster Knox kicked and fought for all it was worth He was holding holding his own until a blinding pain shot through the back of his head and then everything went black chapter 8 applying Two Strokes of blush one to each cheek birdie dabbed powder on her face and stepped back to check her appearance in the mirror she smoothed a hand over her blouse and then fluffed her hair she'd selected one of knox's favorite outfits a shimmery gold top that hugged her figure black tailored slacks and gold platform sandals with blocky heels it was the first time she'd worn sandals this season so she even went to the trouble of painting her nails not much for cooking birdie had called her friend deian Armstrong who ran a catering business she bought a pan of lasagna a loaf of garlic bread and a deluxe salad with pomegranate seeds pears berries and toasted peans for dessert there were Dean's famous Walnut brownies an interesting thing happened when birdie stopped by deanne's house to pick up the food birdie asked Deanne how her business was going it was slow over the winter Deanne confided but it's starting to pick up this Saturday I'm catering a housewarming party hosted by Dr Christopher Wallace he got me to audition for the job by preparing dinner for him last night I tried out a new chicken marsala recipe he must have liked it because he called this morning telling me that I got the job for Saturday Birdie's expression never changed but inside she was miffed and very disappointed in Christopher if he lied about making the dinner she wondered what else he might be lying about she sighed oh well it really didn't matter because from now on she planned to keep her distance from him it seemed that Knox was a better judge of character than she gave him credit for the doorbell rang flapping butterflies in her stomach she chuckled at herself for getting so worked up she relished the delicious thrill that ran through her she wanted romance to be swept off her feet she was certainly getting her wish heat Rose in her cheeks as she thought about those kisses wow Knox was incredible the chemistry between them was off the charts a large smile spread over her face as she answered the door come in she said grandly as she made a wide Sweep with her arm she stopped cold when she realized who was at the door her smile vanished Christopher what are you doing here his expression was the Paramount of politeness sorry to stop by unannounced um it's not a good time his gaze flickered over her you look fantastic thank thanks she said automatically I'll only take a few minutes of your time she glanced past him looking for KNX it wouldn't end well if KNX found Christopher here she wrinkled her nose it's really not a good time she said firmly he stepped inside the foyer something smells good irritation boiled over her as her hand went to her hip did you not hear what I said a wounded look touched his eyes I presumed Knox is coming over her silence was her admission I see you got dressed up for him whereas you dressed down for me last night what I do with Knox is none of your business she hated to be rude but maybe that's the only thing Christopher understood he went over to the table in the foyer and picked up a framed photo of her and KNX they were in their mids birdie was looking up and smiling at Knox with such adoration that it was obvious she was madly in love with him they'd been so idealistic with such big dreams never Imagining the trials that awaited them a few short years later and yet they'd weathered the storm and were stronger because of it they had six exemplary children and three grandchildren God willing it wouldn't be long before they had more grandchildren she looked toward the door which was standing wide open where was Knox Christopher placed the photo back down I'm sorry to be taking up your time he turned to face her shoving his hands into his pockets I just wanted to make sure that you got my message about the housewarming party I'm hosting on Saturday yes Effie gave me the message she rushed on I'm not sure that I'll be able to make it he held up a hand Knox was at the boutique when I stopped by her eyes widened oh she'd seen the flowers Knox had brought her when she returned from visiting with Zoey and mea at the gallery she got a chuckle when she realized that Knox had dumped Christopher's Flowers into the garbage before placing his in the vase yep that was her Knox a fireball to the core Effie said that Knox and Christopher were at the boutique at the same time it was a miracle that Christopher was still standing Left To Tell the tale no hard feelings about the two of you getting back together she rocked back in Surprise as he continued I invited Knox and your employee to come to my party it would mean a lot if you came too he gave her a wistful smile what I need more than anything right now is a friend I'll talk to Knox she said evasively it was the best she could promise right now birdie a female voice called loudly as a woman sidled up the front porch hey Viola birdie said stepping through the door to greet her neighbor who lived across the street planting her feet in a wide stance Biola perched her hands on her bony hips giving birdie a searching look are you okay she asked in a low tone her disapproving gaze went past birdie and into the house where Christopher was standing I'm fine why in her mid 70s Biola hul was a 5 foot1 petite woman with Snow White hair and sharp Lively black eyes she'd outlived two husbands and could probably outlive a third were one to come along she was spry with a keen wit and dry sense of humor many of the newcomers in the neighborhood pegged Viola as a busy body who spied on her neighbors however she and birdie had become good friends over the years Viola's pecan pie was second to none she always made a point of baking one for Birdie on her birthday while some people got annoyed with Viola's intrusiveness birdie understood why Viola occupied herself with the comings and goings of the neighborhood her kids all lived out of state and she was lonely Biola stepped closer and glanced at the street where Christopher's Black Range Rover was parked she touched Bird's arm lowering her voice I keep seeing that vehicle lurking around the neighborhood a shiver snaked down Birdie's spine are you sure Viola's eyesight had been getting worse the past few years Christopher's SUV was black maybe she'd seen several vehicles and mistook them for the same one Viola nodded vigorously as she bit down on her lower lip her eyes were large and wey as she leaned closer who is it Christopher Wallace her razor thin penciled brows shot up clear into her straight line of bangs the doctor who moved into knox's development yes maybe it's you he's stalking Viola whispered a shaky laugh left Bird's throat I don't think anyone is being stalked last month Viola had called birdie in a panic because she thought the Swanson's home was being robbed the culprit turned out to be Bob and Carol's oldest son who was checking on the house while his parents were out of town maybe you should call KNX or the police it's fine birdie assured her Christopher is a good friend you know he's my oncologist right she could tell from Viola's expression that she didn't know what an oncologist was my cancer doctor she explained oh viola frowned I'd still be careful if I were you thank you I will a gritty determination lit Viola's features would you like for me to come in birdie considered the offer sure it would be better for viola to be here when KNX arrived she was eager to get back in and check her phone to see if she'd missed a call or text from him come on in and I'll introduce you to Christopher Viola straightened to her full height fireballs blitzing from her eyes yes I would like to meet him be nice birdie warned Christopher's new in town and could use friends Viola just har rumped and rolled her eyes Christopher this is my neighbor Viola hul she lives across the street hello Christopher offered a cordial Smile as he held out his hand for an instant birdie wondered if Iola might refuse to shake it but finally she thrust out her hand grasping his birdie tells me that you're her cancer doctor guilty is charged he replied in a jovial tone like they were old friends Viola wasn't amused she pinned him with a Beady glare that could quell a room of Rowdy fifth graders in an instant Viola had been a school teacher her entire career in fact she held the record in Franklin for teaching the longest number of years why have you been skul looking around the neighborhood she demanded Christopher's eyes bulged as he sputtered out an incredulous laugh what he threw birdie a look that said this woman is off her rocker no she's quite Lucid I can assure you Bird's mind answered as she spread her hands Biola has seen an SUV like yours several times in the neighborhood more than several times Viola cut in and you think it was me Christopher's face turned beat red it certainly looks like your vehicle Viola accused her voice raspy with age Christopher rubbed his neck and ducked into himself slightly as if he wished he could somehow Escape Viola's glare it wasn't me his voice dripped with a frigid condescension I would hardly think I have time to drive around in your neighborhood when I have a practice to run birdie could tell from the way Viola's jaw dropped that Christopher had hurt her feelings irritation trapes down her spine Viola might occasionally overstep her bounds but she meant well I'm sure it's a simple mistake at any rate I appreciate you looking out for me thank you Biola snipped lifting her chin in the air I'm sorry I meant no disrespect he gave Viola a contrite smile so you live across the street he asked lamely for 56 years Viola boasted I make it my business to know what's going on in my neighborhood she kept studying him until recognition lit her eyes she held up a finger ah I knew you looked familiar you're Teresa and Sam's Boy Yes Christopher answered with a pleased smile like they'd finally established a connection biola's expression grew sour as she turned to birdie I never did care for Teresa she was always a bit too hoyy toyy in my opinion remember that year her apple pie took first place at the fair well she never let anyone forget it from the way Teresa carried on one would think that Paula Dean herself was tutored by Teresa Christopher looked like he might fall out on the floor from shock as birdie stifled a giggle she knew she shouldn't laugh but she couldn't help it she could tell from the twinkle in Viola's eyes that she was having fun needling Christopher well good for viola Christopher deserved to be put in his place for treating Viola with such disrespect her cell phone rang I'd better get that excuse me she hurried into the kitchen to grab it hello she said breathlessly disappointed that it was a number she didn't recognize she'd hoped it would be Knox birdie yes this is sherff blankin ship his voice was solemn I've got some bad news he paused a fraction of a second making birdie want to pull the words from him KNX has been in an accident tears sprang to her eyes oh no she cried her hand going over her chest is he okay a thousand thoughts assaulted her at once threatening to pull her into a tunnel of black yeah he 'll be fine just banged up the gush of relief that swept through her made her dizzy she closed her eyes sucking in a quick breath what happened her knees were wobbling like Jello-O she rested her hand on the counter to brace herself he was forced off the road by two men from out of state they beat him up pretty good they might have done some real damage had a family in a minivan not pulled up on the scene and scared them off a prayer of gratitude raced through her mind Knox was okay where is he the hospital he would have called you himself but a nurse is stitching him up a hot anger seared through her who would do something like this we're not sure Knox thinks it might be related to the fight he had with your employees ex-boyfriend she put a shaky hand to her mouth oh no no good deed goes unpunished she thought Darkly I tried calling Ramsay to let him know what's going on but it went to voicemail I was hoping that with Ramsay's connections maybe he can do some digging I'm sure when he gets my message Ramsay will call me back her mind raced are you at the hospital now yep sure am tell Knox that I'm on my way she thought of something else what's section of the hospital is he in the ER thanks for calling she said in a rush of emotion as she ended the call the desire to get to Knox was overwhelming she went to the oven and turned it off not bothering to remove the lasagna she hurried back into the foyer I've got to go her voice caught as she tried to Tamp down her emotions KNX has been in an accident is he okay Biola asked apprehensively yes he's going to be fine he's at the ER what happened Viola wanted to know Birdie's words gushed out tumbling over themselves before landing in a heap he was forced off the road by two men from out of town who beat him up the look of horror on Viola's face mirrored Bird's feelings I'll take you to the ER Christopher offered no birdie blurted it's best if I go alone she said forcing a Kinder more diplomatic tone into her voice he gave her a hurt look I'm only trying to help it might help to have a doctor on the scene she didn't bother trying to pacify Christopher but ignored the remark as she ushered him and Viola out the second they were through the door she locked it behind them and went to grab her purse after rushing to the ER and getting directed to knox's room birdie knocked once before pushing open the door and stepping inside the sight of Knox bruised and battered moved her to tears his right eye was swollen and purple a thin line of stitches went from the corner of his eye up to his eyebrow his lip was swollen and cut she ran and flung her arms around him careful my ribs are bruised I'm so glad you're okay her eyes filled with tears if anything had happened to you she let the words hang in the air I'm okay he said in the off-handed tough guy manner he used when he didn't want to worry her he cued her cheek giving her a tender smile you look like a gazillion bucks she laughed thank you always the charmer I guess this evening didn't go as planned huh a sardonic grin tugged at a corner of his lips I'm just glad that you're okay she repeated after Knox was discharged birdie took him home to the ranch the doctor tried to give him pain medicine but Knox insisted that he'd be okay with a couple of ibuprofen capsules she teased Knox about it saying lemon told me that when Jackson busted his ankle in the car accident he refused to take any pain meds except for ibuprofen or Tylenol now I know who he gets that stubborn streak from from your side of the family he quipped with a dry G in she helped him get situated on the couch in the den and went to turn on the gas fireplace it lit with a hoosh as blue flames began flickering a taunting smile tipped Bird's mouth see aren't you glad I talked you into getting a gas fireplace instead of wood birdie and Knox had designed the renovations to the ranch house together years ago when the kids were little at that time she and Knox had been as happy as clam assuming they would always live here together his Azure eyes sparkled with Amusement yep you were right and it's like I said then you'll never let me forget it she laughed I suppose you're right she liked the banter floating between them it helped take her mind off the turmoil she'd experienced when she got the phone call from Chief blanken ship she just had to keep reminding herself that Knox was okay he looked like death warmed over but his cuts and bruises would heal birdie marveled at how tough Knox truly was he held out his hand come here he murmured she sat down beside him and scooted close as he draped his arm around her it felt so good to be here snuggled up beside KNX I'm not hurting you am I nah I'm good I hope they find the criminals that attacked you she said vehemently me too he agreed do you think it was connected to Effie's ex-boyfriend could be one of the guys said something about me thinking I can get away with pushing people around she shook her head in disgust they were cowards she spat ganging up on you birdie thought of the pan of lasagna she'd left in the oven Knox had been on his way to see her when he was attacked are you hungry as carefully as she could so as not to hurt him she angled to see his face he gave her a lopsided grin I could eat of course you can she chuckled your Knox Romeo Mr Hollow Leg she moved to stand I'll make you something I can't promise anything fancy like what Gina makes but I'm sure I can whip something up just a minute he caught hold of her arm let's talk first she studied his face you sure you're up to it tonight yeah he exhaled it's long overdue it hurt to look at his swollen eye and busted lip do I look that bad he asked with a Ry grin she inspected his stitches it looks like the doctor did a good job yeah penry does pretty good work so Henry Jepson was the doctor in the ER he was Henry said he getting used to patching up Romeos she made a face why would he say that it's been a few years since Jackson had his car accident oh I don't know I reckon Henry was just trying to find something to R me about he paused as if collecting his thoughts I'm sorry for how things went down at the restaurant I shouldn't have pressed you so hard she cut in yeah you should have I've been dragging my feet she clasped her hands together in her lap I can understand your reservations she said numbly looking down he placed a hand over hers that's the thing it's not what you think her head lifted huh the problem was me his jaw worked eyes going moist I deserted you when you needed me the most a ball of emotion lodged in in her throat as she swallowed to clear it I pushed you away she uttered a tear rolling down her cheek I was in such bad shape I'm so sorry he sucked in a ragged breath I've got to forgive myself for the affair remorse simmered in his Azure eyes not a day goes by that I don't regret what I did his jaw tightened I was hurt and angry I should have never let myself wallow in self-pity dwelling on the music career I gave up a corner of his lip lifted in a partial smile now that I have some wisdom under my belt I realize that no career or worldly success can take the place of you our kids and grandkids he chuckled dryly I think the good Lord has been trying to drill that into my hard old head for years he's probably glad I finally got the message tears pressed against Bird's eyes she let them flow freely down her cheeks it felt good to release the tension a few seconds later she smiled you know what I think we've spent enough time dwelling on mistakes of the past her voice quivered with intensity as she continued despite it all we're still here together she lifted her hand cupping his jaw as much as I Loved You When We Were Young I love you infinitely more now her words got choked as she swallowed trying to reel in her emotions enough to talk tonight when I got that call from Chief blankin ship my heart sank I can't imagine not having you here with me they shared a long look his eyes held such a tender expression of love that she thought her heart would melt from the sweetness of it she squared her jaw a fire of determination smoldering through her let's make a pack right now from here on out whatever challenges life throws at us we'll face them together deal his voice rang with conviction birdie Romeo you're one in a million to say I love you doesn't even begin to cover the depth of my feelings you're the greatest song of my heart he folded her hands in his and kissed the tips of her fingers a smile moved over her lips as a ray of pure undiluted Sunshine shot straight into the center of her heart that sounds like the beginnings of a song careful or cash and AAL will be wanting to record it as long as they give me royalties he shot back with a twinkle in his eye she shook her head only you she said with tender admiration his eyes lit with Mischief so miss Romeo he drawled you're ready to go to the courthouse tomorrow and tie the knot her voice shot up an octave is this your idea of a proposal why not he Shrugged I figured I'd better get the goose while the getting is good me and you babe we'll March down to the courthouse first thing in the morning and get her done first of all I am not a goose she retorted enunciating every word second we're not just going to get her done her head moved in syn with her wagging finger I've waited this long for you to muster up the courage to get back up on the horse I'm not going to settle for a thrown together proposal from a scalawag with a black eye and Frankenstein stitches I want the works roses chocolates maybe even wine a low mellow chuckle rumbled in his throat you don't even drink wine maybe I should start after all the stress I've been through tonight she retorted his eyes deepened as he gave her a look that caused her blood to run faster nah we don't need wine he leaned forward his voice husky all we need is this his arms en circled her as his lips touched hers ouch he winced as he pulled back giving her a ruul grin I guess we should take it easy you know the last time I got caught smooching on the couch I got grounded they pulled back to see Jackson leaning against the door frame that led into the den Knox didn't skip a beat the difference is that you were 12 14 Jackson quipped with a sirly grin better not let lemon hear you bragging about your exploits birdie teased I heard that Jackson agreed as he went over and sat down across from them he grimaced when he saw nox's face you look like you came out on the wrong side of a kicking mule you should see the other guy Knox responded Jackson's head swung back and forth are you okay I'll live Chief blank and ship called and told me what happened he said it might be a good idea to check on you the chief said they suspect that the attack was retribution for the fight you had the other day at the boutique that seems to be the case I guess we'll know for sure when the rascals are caught Knox and birdie were sitting close with knox's arm slung around her shoulders A sly grin spread over Jackson's lips so I take it y'all are finally back together bird reached up and linked her fingers through nox's yep she sang your daddy finally mustered up the courage to get back up on the horse Knox grunted but birdie could tell he was amused about dang time Jackson said heartily that's fantastic news the glow that touched his features caused Bird's heart to swell everything was coming full circle hey did y'all get an invite to Christopher Wallace's housewarming party on Saturday we did Knox answered lemon and I got invited we were thinking about going if y'all go he gave them questioning looks I'm not sure that's a good idea with your daddy in such rough shape birdie began nonsense Knox cut in we'll be there birdie turned to him in Surprise really I figured you'd be jumping for joy that we weren't going and missed the opportunity to show off the house that I built his eyes zinged with mischief and to show off my woman ah the truth comes out you want Christopher to know that I'm with you Bingo A Satisfied smile stole over his lips birdie arched an eyebrow oh don't worry Christopher got the message loud and clear this evening when I rushed out to check on you in the e r Knox frowned an edge slipping into his voice what Christopher was at your house he stopped by to make sure that I knew that you and I were invited to his party she giggled he met Viola Jackson's eyes widened I'm sure that was interesting it was especially when Viola accused Christopher of skullking around the neighborhood she felt knock tense as he turned to her what evidently Viola has been seeing an SUV that looks like Christopher's prowling the neighborhood I'm sure Viola's just confused you know how she is a look passed between KNX and Jackson as the mood in the room shifted from light-hearted to Serious have you heard anything from Ramsay Jackson shook his head not yet what's going on she could tell from Jackson guilty expression that something was up Knox she fixed him with a Steely look Knox took in a breath the corners of his jaw twitching don't be mad mad about what she flung back bracing herself for whatever he was about to tell her it's my fault Jackson cut in what's your fault birdie pressed Jackson shot her a sheepish look I asked Ramsay to look into Christopher what what birdie exploded why Knox patted her shoulder don't get your drawers in a wad babe if Christopher is the saint he pretends to be then nothing will come of it he quirked a frown has he really been stalking your neighborhood or stalking her Jackson said cutting his eyes at birdie a shiver ran down her spine surely not she rewound her brain back through the past several weeks she'd run into Christopher at the grocery store and the dry cleaners then he showed up at mccc's fish house while she and Knox were at lunch was it possible that he was stalking her Christopher was so professional had been so kind to her during her cancer several times she'd called him in tears and he'd comforted her then he moved back to Franklin her thoughts went to Christopher's elaborate dinner and how he'd lied about making the chicken marsala then there was his strange shift in behavior from when he was talking about the loss of his wife to him jumping up so suddenly ready to dance there were certainly things about Christopher that weren't adding up Knox touched her hair what's going on in that pretty little head of yours she bit down on her lower lip I guess I was just trying to figure out if Viola's accusation has any Merit the fact that you're questioning the situ ation speaks volumes knock said astutely the night's events were starting to catch up with birdie she suddenly felt exhausted and very hungry I guess it couldn't hurt to check him out she met eyes with Jackson discretly Ramsay is the king of discreet he assured her she pushed out a heavy sigh Ramsay has so much to deal with already with Cash's tour and keeping everybody safe I just hate that we're dragging him into our drama she looked at Jackson I hate that we're drawing you into it also you didn't Jackson grinned I volunteered a determined glint lit his eyes as a matter of fact I'm looking forward to the party so I can observe Christopher Wallace firsthand and draw my own conclusions like father like son birdie sighed she'd never been able to do anything with Knox Jackson or any of her sons for that matter they were all stubborn Mavericks like their daddy she admired them for their grit and determination but their Do or Die approach to life often got them in tricky situations they lived by a strict code of honor and expected everyone else to do the same she sat up I'm going to make us something to eat do you want anything she asked Jackson n I'm good I need to be getting home how's lemon doing she asked good Jackson replied a wave of sympathy went through birdie I'm so sorry for all of the trouble y'all are going through with the miscarriages she wished she could Shield her children from all the hurt and disappointment life thre their way but that's not how it worked everyone had to fight their own battles the best birdie could hope for was that she could be there to offer comfort and support gratit ude flowed through her she would get the opportunity now that her cancer was gone she'd been given one of the greatest Gifts of all more time Jackson's lips pulled into taut lines as he nodded it's been rough on Lemon pain darted through his eyes letting birdie know that it had been just as tough on him please know that we're here for you Bird's throat thickened yall are in our thoughts and prayers yes you are Knox piped in heartily as birdie Rose to her feet Jackson did so also she crossed the distance between them with quick steps and infolded him in a tight hug I love you she breathed going teary eyed I love you too she smiled tenderly hearing the catch in his voice for all of her and knox's shortcomings they'd raised outstanding children well Jackson said a minute later as a slow grin stole over his lips I guess I'd better get out of here I've got some phone calls to make he rubbed his hands together everybody's going to love this the two of y'all are finally back together he pumped his eyebrows and I get to be the one to deliver the news you're just an old gossip birdie joked careful or we'll have to start lumping you in with Viola hul Knox Jered be nice nice birdie warned but she couldn't help but grin as she and Jackson caught eyes and shared their Amusement she was elated that Knox was doing so well considering the circumstance he dodged a bullet for sure she felt so blessed and so incredibly happy she didn't know when or where but she and Knox would get remarried and this time she had no intention of ever letting him go chapter nine good morning Birdie sang as she strolled into the boutique normally she didn't come into the Boutique on Saturday but she wanted to grab something to wear tonight to Christopher's housewarming party while she wouldn't admit this to Knox she was actually looking forward to getting dressed up and going only because Knox was her date his eye was still purple but his lip was no longer swollen Knox kept teasing her asking if she was sure she wanted to go with someone as ugly as him it'll be tough she replied straight-faced as she pushed out a putout sigh but somebody's got to do it good one he drawled giving her an appraising look Olivia one of Bird's part-time sales clerks was standing behind the counter hello she said when she saw birdie how's Knox doing she gave birdie a tentative look I heard about the attack he's doing much better did the police ever find the men who jumped him not yet do you think the attack is connected with the fight Knox had with Effie's ex-boyfriend Olivia's eyes were wide with interest that's the angle the police are looking into Effie's really torn up about it she feels so guilty over the situation I know but it's not her fault the day following the attack birdie had seen F at the boutique Effie had broken down crying apologizing profusely and telling birdie how sorry she was about knox's attack birdie soothed Effie by telling her that everything would be okay we're not sure yet if The Men Who attack knocks are even connected to your ex-boyfriend and even if they are you couldn't help it birdie pulled herself out of her own thoughts and focused on what Olivia was saying I hope they catch the guys who did it Olivia said fiercely through narrowed eyes me too tired of dwelling on all the unpleasantness birdie changed the subject how's it been going today busy Olivia sighed that's good to hear the door chimed as a woman stepped in birdie didn't recognize her Franklin had become a popular tourist location also there were lots of newcomers who were attracted by the town's charm it was getting so that there were more and more people didn't know Hello Olivia said brightly is there anything I can help you find I'm just browsing the woman replied Olivia stepped around the counter and began telling the woman about the sale items birdie stepped over to the stack of mail on the counter and thumbed through it she stopped when she came to a medium-sized vanilla colored envelope addressed to KNX no return address frowning she turned it over to see if the return address was on the back she turned it back over the address was printed on a label the postmark was from Marshall Texas interesting Knox had never before received any mail at the boutique curiosity stirred inside her she thought about ripping it open to see what was inside but decided to get knox's okay first she retrieved her phone from her purse and called him it went to voicemail so she left him a message telling him about the envelope she dropped Dred it into her purse and turned her attention to finding the perfect outfit for tonight an hour later birdie had just gotten home and was depositing everything on the island in the kitchen when KNX called hey she answered with a smile ah you beautiful he drawled what are you up to oh how she loved the melodic tone of his tender voice the very sound of it sent tantalizing Shivers circling through her I just got back from the Boutique and running errands how about you she didn't want to admit that she'd gone to the boutique for the express purpose of finding a knock your socks off dress for tonight Jackson and I repaired one of the fences in the northwest corner out by the bluff area I figured you'd be taking it easy and resting up for tonight she teased knowing full well that KNX wasn't one to just sit back and put his feet up he had to stay busy 24/7 even though she knew her advice would fall on deaf ears she couldn't resist giving it anyway you should rest so that you'll heal faster I'll rest when I'm dead he grumbled a smile played over her lips yep that was her knocks always going full force hey A letter came for you at the boutique surprise coded his voice really who's it from I'm not sure there was no return address she grabbed it out of her purse the postmark is from Marshall Texas his audible intake of breath caused her insides to freeze who do you know in Marshall Texas open it tension crackled in his voice what is this about it was crazy how fast misgivings title waved over her when he remained silent she slid her finger along the top Edge ripping open the envelope she slipped her fingers in and removed a folded white paper she opened it there was a single sentence in the center of an otherwise blank page the font was black and nondescript birdie guessed that the sentence had been typed on a computer and then printed what is it Knox demanded she read the sentence aloud her brain processing the words as she went the flowers were a nice touch at Naomi's funeral but you should have been there her stomach felt like it was being turned inside out as she gasped is this the Naomi I think it is she tried to think Naomi moved to Texas a few months after her affair with Knox but birdie hadn't kept up with the woman she hadn't wanted to know where Naomi was or anything about her life Knox she prompted when he didn't answer yes he answered tonelessly an acrid anger whooshed up Suddenly burning through her like an inferno as her brain tried to fit the pieces together Naomi had died and KNX sent flowers why would you send flowers to that woman hot tears rushed to her eyes as she blinked to stay them had Knox kept up with Naomi obviously he knew that she'd passed away and where she lived a ruthless fist gripped her lungs making it hard to breathe just when she thought they were home free they were thrust back to the very point where they'd begun would there ever be any hope of escaping the past I did it out of responsibility guilt his voice was weary and defeated her words rushed out hitting the floor like Boulders you must have kept up with Naomi if you knew she'd passed away I ran into Richard Coulter he told me that Naomi had terminal cancer silent descended between them like a dense fog until finally birdie spoke I just wish you would have told me yeah you're right I should have he paused but I didn't want to add insult to injury he rushed on while we're airing our grievances I've got a bone to pick with you with me she narrowed Her Eyes by all means don't hold back her voice dripped Venom why in the Sam Hill did you tell your worker about my Affair what are you talking about she fired back Effie said that you told her about my Affair I most certainly did not her face was hot enough to Burn Rubber why would Effie tell you that now she was ticked at Effie as well as Knox I have no idea she told me that she didn't want to see you get hurt again with the direct inference that I would do just that Bird's thoughts were swirling faster than a flock of birds caught in a tornado Why would Effie be concerned about me or you that's what I asked her what did she say she ham hauled around the topic I asked her if she had some sort of allegiance to Christopher but she denied it an incredulous laugh Rose in Bird's throat why would she have an allegiance to Christopher none of this was making any sense birdie really liked Effie and wanted to think the best of her she'd hoped that maybe Effie would stay at the boutique for the Long Haul now she was second guessing everything I was just trying to figure out her angle and why she felt the need to lecture me about you what do you know about iy birdie rubbed her forehead as she began pacing back and forth she's from somewhere in Louisiana I can't remember the town but I'm sure sure it was on her application which I kept in her file she wrinkled her nose do you think she somehow connected to Christopher why would she say that I told her about your affair she gritted her teeth feeling the urge to scream at the top of her lungs if you didn't tell her then how did Effie find out about the affair it's Franklin remember gossip flows like water she finished tartly good point let's think this through someone sent the note about Naomi's funeral but they didn't send it to me they sent it to you through me birdie inserted exactly someone wanted you to know that I sent flowers to Naomi's funeral because someone is trying to break us apart she said aloud as her brain tried to come to grips with what was happening bird's stomach was balled into a hard knot making her feel like she might vomit do you think Effie sent the note she was still pacing four steps forward four steps back around and around she went it was like her feet thought they could outwalk her problems if only Knox pushed out a hard breath I don't know you said it was sent from Marshall Texas yep Effie must be a Houdini to send a note from Texas when she's been here the entire time time birdie said not trying to hide her sarcasm her Instinct wanted to reject the idea that Effie was out to get her Effie was a good person birdie had felt a kinship with her from the moment she walked into the boutique to interview for the sales clerk position she could have gotten someone to send it Bird's voice Rose as she balled her fist what would be her motive to get you and Christopher together but why maybe because it's what Christopher wants Christopher could be paying her handsomely to do his bidding or maybe he has some hold over her knox's voice hardened I suspect that you came back on Christopher's radar when you had the cancer he moved to Franklin because of you what if Viola hul is right what if Christopher has been hanging around your neighborhood and stalking you disgust sat heavily in his voice Goosebumps Rose over Bird's arms I don't think Christopher's a dangerous person a shaky laugh left her mouth I'll admit that he has a crush on me but now that he's realized you and I are back together I'm sure he'll move on so we're still back together the vulnerability in nox's voice tugged at her heartstrings the Moment of Truth was upon her were those just empty words that she'd spoken the night before for or was she willing to stand by her promise to never let anything come between them again of course we're still together she harped don't think for one minute that you're getting out of remarrying me tears blurred her eyes knowing that Knox had sent flowers to Naomi's funeral had rattled her however now that she'd calmed down she could understand why he had and as much as she hated to admit it his gesture was the right thing to do while birdie had no love lost for Naomi Smith she didn't wish her dead I love you birdie it has always been you the sincerity of knox's words helped soothe her angst I love you too she lifted her chin I meant what I said about not letting anything or anyone ever come between us again no matter what happened from here on out she was determined to stand by now amen KNX boomed birdie pushed a hand through her hair I still don't see any possible connection between Effie and Christopher she stopped in her tracks as her eyes flew open unless her heart began to pound unless what Knox pressed the night I had dinner at Christopher's house I saw a photo of his stepdaughter she made a face I can't remember the girl's name she twirled her hand anyway the point is that Christopher has two stepdaughters but the younger one doesn't like having her picture taken so there were no photos of her on the mantle at least that's the excuse Christopher gave for not having any pictures of her she muttered with an eye roll could Effie be the younger daughter she looked similar to the photo I saw of the older girl Christopher said that she's in Florida at a dental school school but what if that's not true she threw up her hand or maybe I'm grasping its straws just because Effie has dark hair like the girl in the picture doesn't mean that she's Christopher's stepdaughter look how similar Zoe and Effie look there are lots of girls who share a general resemblance yeah I suppose that's true however it's certainly something to consider I keep thinking about Effie's ex-boyfriend the two men who attacked me Christopher moving back to town Viola seeing Christopher lurking around the neighborhood there has to be a connection I can feel it have you heard anything from ramsy not yet but I hope too soon maybe you should ask ramsy to look into Effie fresh anger pulsed through her veins or better yet maybe I'll call Effie up right now and demand that she tell me the truth I have a better idea what's that isn't Dey going to the party tonight she said she was ask her in person tonight that way you can see her expression good idea hold on to that note and envelope would you I'd like to see them we'll do her brain rewound everything that she and Knox had just discussed as a trickle of unease ran through her do you really think that Christopher is behind all of these seemingly random events you know how Viola is she sits at home alone and watches too many crime shows she thinks everyone is a villain her head swiveled back and forth I still have a hard time believing that Effie is connected to Christopher Effie was so responsible and conscientious she earned Birdie's trust so quickly had birdie been duped maybe she was a terrible judge of character the thought sent ribbons of melan hlly quivering through her someone sent those guys to attack me and someone sent that note about Naomi's funeral and the flowers an icy fear twisted around Birdie's throat you think someone is targeting us it certainly looks that way KNX said grimly I don't think I can go through this again birdie said hoarsely remembering the terrible ordeal when she and the family were targeted by Ellis Livingston a really estate Tycoon who was out for Revenge because ramsy had shot his son Wesley while protecting lemon Ellis hired men to storm into the ranch house on Christmas Eve intent on killing birdie in front of Knox and the family to get retribution thankfully Ellis's dastardly plan was thwarted however Noel's son Aiden got shot mercifully Aiden healed from the wound and had no lasting effects it took birdie a while to recover from the emotional trauma the event caused she was in a good place now and didn't want to relive those dark fears her breath came in fast spurts as she willed herself to calm down breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth she commanded herself don't worry Knox assured her we'll get to the bottom of this I'll call ramsy and see if he's learned anything tonight you can question Effie if she's involved then you'll know it especially if you catch her by surprise maybe we're looking too deeply into this her words came out fast the men who attacked you could have been sent by Effie's ex-boyfriend Biola could be mistaken about seeing Christopher's SUV in the neighborhood she chewed on her inner cheek of course there's also the part about me bumping into Christopher at the dry cleaners and grocery store in a matter of a few days and then he showed up at the same restaurant where we were eating lunch also he lied about making the chicken marsala knox's voice pitched High what you never told me that what happened about the chicken marsala she told him about how Christopher had taken credit for deanne's cooking that's a small thing I probably shouldn't rake Christopher over the coals for that he was trying to impress me and this point in the game every little detail matters often times the Small Things give the greatest insight into the character of a person or lack thereof his voice was Flint hard and she could imagine that his brows were furrowed his rugged face set in concentration I learned a long time ago to trust my instincts he paused right now my instincts are screaming that Christopher Wallace is a phony he's been after you from the time you got cancer and I wouldn't put it past him to do anything to keep us apart now I just need to prove it birdie didn't want Christopher to be a phony nor did she want Effie to be in cahoots with him she wanted Christopher to go on being the brilliant doctor that he was she wanted him to find someone who adored him someone he could build a life with someone who could help heal his Broken Heart from losing Natalia birdie wanted Effie to be the competent trustworthy employee she deemed her to be most of all birdie wanted all of the craziness to stop so she could finally put the past behind her and live her life with Knox was that too much to ask chapter 10 Knox leted out a low whistle as he looked birdie up and down she liked the heat of his bold gaze and how it Unleashed a legion of butterflies in her stomach wow he uttered you look like a walking felony a giggle Rose in her throat thanks I think you look great too Knox was dressed in a charcoal gray sport coat white dress shirt and black trousers to say that Knox was merely handsome would have been a gross understatement Knox exuded a viral energy that shouted masculinity the bruise on his eye was darkening making it even more not noticeable however the swelling had gone down his mouth was almost completely back to normal the only evidence of the beating a faint pink line from the cut Knox was a fast healer his Olive toned skin was Supple and resilient his liquid teal eyes took on a smoldering glint that Lit every fiber of her body on fire come here he uttered as he encircled her waist with his arm and pulled her roughly to him you are incredible he murmured as he leaned in and nuzzled the sensitive spot behind her earlobe dizzying currants buzzed through her as his mouth moved to her neck and trailed a string of feathery light kisses down her skin she closed her eyes thrilling at his touch for so long she dreamed of being in knox's arms and resuming her physical relationship with a man whom she loved so fiercely and completely that it nearly consumed her to be in his arms now felt almost surreal she could hardly believe that her deepest yearnings were finally becoming a reality he pulled back studying her face as if drinking in her features she loved the depth of intensity emanating from his piercing eyes she loved that the memory of his touch was already imprinted so deeply in her heart that it was a part of her a wicked glint lit his eyes as he homed in on her lips you and those perfect kissable lips he quirked a grin too bad you already put your lipstick on yeah too bad she smiled a reckless streak blazed across his features before his eyes deepened with desire hang the lipstick no she uttered in Surprise you'll smudge my lipstick she was about to say but her protest got drowned out in the tumult of emotions that cascaded through her as his mouth crushed hers they were standing in her foyer with the front door standing wide open for the entire neighborhood to see but Knox didn't care nor did he seem the least bit bothered by the intermittent gusts of cold wind mixed with bits of snow her spirit soared high on wings of euphoria as he kissed her long and hard holding nothing back it was a good thing that Knox didn't realize the power he wielded over her her entire body trembled at being so close to him when he pulled back a quirky grin touched his lips we've still got it laughter bubbled in her throat did you ever have any doubt oh how she loved this audacious thrilling man a boyish grin tugged at his lips not for a second he leaned close giving her a meaningful look so miss Romeo he drawled slathering on his Southern twang thick as molasses if we were married right now we wouldn't have to stop at the kissing her cheeks flamed as she swatted his chest KNX she blustered and could tell that he loved making her squirm she glanced past him to the house across the street I'm sure Viola is getting an eye full we can fix that he turned and in a quick fluid motion slid the door closed with his foot there he said with a note of satisfaction where were we he took her lips again stoking the growing fire inside her until she was weak in the knees we should probably leave for the party birdie said several minutes later he let out a heavy sigh I guess you're right he made a point of looking outside the window as he scowled what kind of a [ __ ] plans a party when the forecast is calling for a snow storm maybe we'll just get a few flurries birdie said optimistically he raised an eyebrow does that look like flurries to you we don't have to stay long just long enough for me to question Effie are Jackson and lemon still going yep they'll be there after birdie grabbed her coat and purse they headed out thankfully the roads were still clear knox's truck was a four-wheel drive and he was an excellent driver they drove through the impressive stacked stone and iron gated entrance of swallows Creek subdivision the neighborhood spoke of a stately Grandeur with the large trees and mix of Greek Revival and Plantation architectural Styles you and Dylan outdid yourselves birdie murmured as they drove past several palacial houses to get to the culdesac where Christopher's home was located a dozen or more cars lined the street in front of Christopher's home the lights flickering from the large Windows radiated a cheerful warmth I guess the weather wasn't much of a deterrent birdie observed she turned to Knox I wonder how many people came tonight just so they could see the inside of the house a few I suspect KNX said nonchalantly birdie bit back back a smile Knox wasn't big on accolades he always claimed that he preferred to stay behind the scenes and yet his very nature made him a power player to the core people saw Knox as a leader the fact that he didn't care what people thought about him made him even more attractive and likable Knox pointed at a Dodge Ram truck Dylan and Lila are here oh good birdie was close friends with knox's brother Dylan and his wife Lila Knox and Dylan had developed swallows Creek together although Knox was the brains and driving force behind the operation I wonder if Jackson and lemon are here yet she looked for Jackson's truck but didn't see it Knox pulled over and parked before turning to face her you ready for this her stomach fluttered with apprehension as she gave him a tight Smile as ready as I'll ever be with all of the suspicions surrounding Christopher and then her need to question Effie it was bound to be a tense evening snowflakes were steadily falling against the windshield like the heavens were shaking a pillow and emptying an endless supply of feathers I wish you had been able to get in touch with Ramsay so we could get some answers me too knock sighed I reckon he's tied up with the tour or he hasn't learned anything yet and he's waiting until he has more information you're probably right okay let's do this knock said stealing his jaw with determination he got out of the truck came around and opened her door Knox was a gentleman through and through birdie was grateful for that he always opened doors for women he taught their sons to do the same the cold hair sliced through Bird's coat as they walked to the door she leaned close to Knox grateful for his warmth they pressed the doorbell and waited surprised when an older woman with silver hair Dawning a black and white maid uniform opened the door good evening she said ceremoniously with a slight nod and cordial smile welcome she stepped back and motioned for them to enter birdie looked at Knox whose expression broadcasted Amusement over the fact that Christopher had hired a maid to answer the door and greet his guests wow talk about preach ense may I take your coat the woman offered sure thank you birdie said as Knox helped her out of it and handed it to the woman laughter and the Lively murmur of conversation drifted from the living room as they stepped into the cavernous room birdie grinned inwardly when Knox immediately began scoping the room with a Keen Eye not the people but the structure the room was teeming with people most of whom birdie recognized her gaze settled on the mayor and his wife Chief blanken ship and his wife Samantha were talking to Dylan and Lila Samantha swatted Lila's arm and laughed heartily Chief blankin ship and Samantha were holding glasses of wine whereas Dylan and Lila were holding bottles of perier two waiters guys in their early 20s were threading through the crowd carrying platters of appetizers birdie figured that deian was in the kitchen preparing food and Bar out orders to her staff that's quite the Shiner there Joe Nelson said as he stepped up to Knox and gave his hand a hearty shake before patting Knox on the back Joe Nelson was one of knox's longtime friends and their insurance agent I heard about the attack I'm so sorry I'm glad you're okay did they catch the Scoundrels who did it as Knox and Joe talked birdie surveyed the room looking for Effie she spotted Christopher instead when he saw her he flashed a large glowing smile he turned to the tall willowy red head beside him and touched her arm saying something in her ear she smiled warmly as she looked in Birdie's Direction a couple of seconds later Christopher hooked his arm in the woman's and led her over to birdie hello he said giving her a hug and peck on the cheek he turned to the woman this is Sonia Jenning Sonia was holding a glass of red wine in one hand she extended her other as she and birdie shook hello it's nice to meet you birdie and I go way back to high school Christopher said as he caught gazes with birdie the flicker of longing in his eyes prickled her with uneasiness then as quickly as the expression came it vanished under a polite veneer making her wonder if she'd only imagined it Christopher was so polished and sophisticated she was finding it hard to believe that he could be in any way involved with the men who attacked Knox also she was having a hard time picturing him skullking around her neighborhood and again she had been awakened by that noise a few nights ago she brushed off the intrusive thought realizing that anything could have made the noise a squirrel tree branch the wind the list went on and on Christopher had certainly adapted did quickly Sonia was a beautiful woman birdie assumed from the way Christopher kept placing a hand on the small of her back that she was his date Sonia is a pediatric hospitalist Christopher began meaning that I work with children in a hospital setting Sonia explained Christopher turned to Sonia birdie owns a clothing boutique in town interest lit Sonia's emerald eyes really what brands do you carry they chatted for a few minutes but Bird's mind was elsewhere she glanced at the photos on the mantle making a mental note to work her way over to them so that she could study them she wanted to see if Christopher's oldest stepdaughter actually resembled Effie as much as she remembered birdie wondered if Effie was coming tonight she looked through the wall of Windows and French doors snow was still falling steadily coating the deck in a blanket of white Joe lumbered away to join another conversation as Knox stepped up beside birtie and placed his arm around her waist Birdie cast a furtive glance at Christopher noticing the subtle change in him his jaw tightened and she thought but couldn't be sure that she saw a flash of malice in his eyes or maybe she was reading too much into things KNX acknowledged Christopher with a Curt nod thanks for coming tonight Christopher said with the Finesse of a seasoned host he turned his attention to Sonia gracing her with such an adoring smile that birdie would have thought Christopher was smitten Knox and his brother Dylan built my house it's beautiful you did a fantastic job thanks I'm Sonia Jennings she said by way of introduction to Knox Knox Romeo he replied as he threw birdie a doting grin Bird's fiance Christopher's face registered shock but he recovered quickly offering a benign smile it would seem that congratulations are in order thank you knock said heartily his phone rang as he fished it from his front pocket he blinked looking at birdie it's ramsy her pulse jumped into high gear you'd better take it she swallowed trying to keep her composure excuse me knock said as he moved away from them everything okay Christopher asked uh-huh it's good birdie chimed why do you ask your cheeks are flushed are they great just what she needed right now she could feel the blood rushing to her face she forced a laugh Knox and I have been trying to get in touch with our son she explained to Sonia you're telling too much her mind shouted button your lips when birdie got nervous she tended to babble Sonia looked confused you and Knox have a son together a tight smile wound over Bird's lips yep actually we have one daughter and five Sons the way Sonia's mouth dropped was almost comical in fact my oldest son and his wife should be here any minute Knox and I were married before birdie continued we're getting remarried she glanced at Christopher to see if there was any change in him but his expression remained Placid either Christopher really had moved on or he was one heck of an actor he'd certainly moved on quickly maybe he'd not been as enamored with birdie as she thought the notion brought her a sense of relief oh Sonia exclaimed in understanding her lips curved into a bright smile that's awesome that the two of you are getting back together I think so a dart of Happiness shot through birdie isn't that wonderful Sonia asked looking at Christopher yes it is his eyes locked with birdies more than anything I just want you to be happy thanks she murmured genuinely touched maybe she and noox were barking up the wrong tree Christopher seemed above reproach it was a stretch to think that he had any connection to Effie her heart skipped de beat when she spotted Effie by the fireplace that was fortuitous the pictures and Effie in the same spot birdie glanced around looking for Knox but he was nowhere to be found she assumed that he'd stepped outside to take ramy's call now was the perfect time to question Effie excuse me she said to Christopher and Sonia as she made a beline for Effie chapter 11 hardly noticing the cold Knox left the sidewalk leading up to the front entrance of the house and stepped over in the grass so he could talk to Ramsay without fear of being overheard by the steady line of guests trickling into Christopher's home sorry it took me so long to get back to you ramsy began I wanted to get as much information as possible before calling your mama and I I figured that was the case are you where you can talk yeah I'm at Christopher Wallace's little shindig he spouted I stepped outside so we can talk privately how's that for timing Ramsey mused just promise me one thing what's that when you hear what I'm about to tell you don't go all Rambo and do something stupid the last thing you need is to get into another fight and get yourself arrested or or pummeled speaking of which how you doing concern sounded in Ramsay's voice are you healing up from the attack I'm fit as a fiddle Knox clipped ready to get to the meat of the conversation what you got Ramsay launched in Christopher has an exemplary work record and is heralded by his peers as one of the top oncologists in the country in fact he's up for an award next month by one of the leading cancer associations no surprise there knock shot back the last thing that pompous jerk needs are more accolades feeding his ego I hear you Ramsay agreed dryly while Christopher may look like a saint on paper it's his personal life that gets interesting knox's ears perked up how so Christopher was married to a woman named Natalia they were raising her two daughters from her previous marriage Knox nodded yep I knew all that the detective interviewed Natalia's oldest daughter Cassie she thinks Christopher's the greatest thing ever figures he scoffed Christopher was such a charlatan Knox could see right through his sheep's clothing straight to the wolf within it was too bad that other people couldn't what about the younger daughter the detective is still trying to get in touch with her Christopher told birdie that the younger one is in Florida attending dental school how hard could it be to get in touch with her he grumbled actually Alice flunked out of dentl school in his touring Europe with friends guess who's footing the bill before Knox could respond ramsy answered his own question Christopher interesting Knox murmured that bit of information was sinking with Bird's Theory with Alice supposedly in Europe it would be harder to track her down what Ramsey asked do you have some additional information maybe tell me all that you know first and then I'll share my thoughts Ramsay's voice picked up its Pace Natalia first met Christopher when he was her doctor treating her for uterin cancer KNX felt the breath leave his lungs what isn't there some rule against doctors pursuing their patients it's unethical Christopher covered his bases Natalia made a complete recovery by the time he and Natalia got involved he'd already referred her to another doctor Knox rubbed a hand across his forehead what a SAS he growled I knew he was after your mama from the get-go a feeling of vindication swept over Knox he was grateful that he'd listened to his instincts Ramsay's voice hardened I believe you're right it's a good thing you got me to check into him because there's more Natalia's first husband Doug was killed in a boating accident when he was on vacation in New Zealand and Natalia was killed in a car accident Knox interjected two accidents to two people closely related a strange coincidence wouldn't you say yeah two coincidental Natalia's autopsy showed prescription drugs in her body but they were at therapeutic levels the accident took place at night on a treacherous road it was sleeing and Natalya was driving above the speed limit her death was ruled accidental at face value it's an open and shut case however the private investigator interviewed Natalia sister Ramsay's voice grew Punchy and pointed according to Stephanie Natalia was very unhappy in her marriage Christopher was super controlling and manipulative no surprise there KNX seeded a tap on his shoulder sent him whirling around ready to fight someone gotcha jackon grinned his fingers forming guns as he pointed them at Knox hey KNX said settling down Jackson and lemon just arrived at the party oh tell them I said hello Knox removed mouth from the receiver ramsy says hello Jackson's eyes rounded as he lowered his voice did he get some dirt on the dock he's giving it to me now is Mama here Jackson glanced around inside lemon was hugging her arms shivering Jackson slid his arm around her shoulders and pulled her close we'll go on in see you soon he glanced up at the falling snow don't stay out too long it's getting bad out here kn nodded as he put the phone back up to his ear turning his full attention back to ramsy sorry about that where were we he sifted it through the pages of his brain you were telling me how Natalia thought Christopher was controlling and manipulative Natalia felt that Christopher had turned her girls against her she was planning on divorcing him Stephanie's not sure how Christopher pulled it off but she believes that Natalia's death wasn't an accident not clenched his jaw so Christopher gets off scott-free and plays the part of the mour and husband yep ramsy paused everything we have on Christopher is based on assumption Natalia's sister could hate him and be trying to slander his name what are your thoughts about the man Knox tightened his jaw waiting his gut told him that Christopher was a scumbag but maybe he was too close to the situation to see it clearly ramsy on the other hand would be able to assess the situation more dispassionately I think your instincts are right on the money his voice gathered intensity based on what I'm learning about Christopher Wallace I'd say there's a good chance that he was the one who's behind your attack I don't doubt it Knox growled balling his fist everything in him wanted to March right into the house drag Christopher out by the hair of his head and pound him senseless however he couldn't let his temper get the best of him Christopher was a crafty Fox there had to be some way to expose him for what he was can you do some more digging into the death of Natalia's first husband you bet Ramsay took in a deep breath okay that's all I have now tell me your thoughts this is going to sound far-fetched but just hear me out before you reach any conclusions oh okay ramsy said wearily Knox told him about Viola hul and how she'd seen Christopher's SUV several times in the neighborhood and felt like he might be stalking birdie then he launched into the part about Effie and how he and birdie wondered if she might be Alice Christopher's youngest stepdaughter all of the trouble started when Effie's ex-boyfriend came into the boutique later Effie lectured me about birdie saying that she didn't want want to see her get hurt by getting back together with me Effie claimed that birdie told her about my affair with Naomi but that's not true birdie never told her a thing okay let's say your hunch is correct what reason could Alice or Effie have for wanting to keep you and Mama apart Christopher has had his sights on your mama from the minute she got cancer and he became her doctor his stomach nodded with indignation it's possible that Effie is simply doing his bidding if he's footing the bill for Alice's travels or lifestyle then she would have a vested interest in keeping Christopher happy before Ramsay could object Knox rushed on by working at the boutique Alice could have a direct line into mine and Birdie's lives that's true ramsy conceded there's also the note that came to the the boutique addressed to me what note after Knox told him about it there was a long pause it certainly sounds like someone's trying to keep you and Mama apart Ramsay finally said Knox drew his brows together it won't work he thundered I looked on social media trying to find information on Alice but there was nothing what are Cassie and Alice's last names Wallace ch Christopher adopted them KNX could hardly believe what he was hearing so the guy kills their father and then adopts them unbelievable remember all we have at this point our suspicions ramsy cautioned the fastest way for me to find out what Alice looks like is to contact Natalia's sister I would hope that she would have a photo of her niece have you or Mama by chance looked up eie on social media no we didn't even think to do that Knox lamented snow was still falling the cold was getting to Knox sending Shivers through his body his hair was wet and plastered down from the snowflakes I'll look her up as soon as we get off the phone what's her last name Smith Effie Smith is that correct yep that's it ramsy grunted well if Alice is pretending to be Effie then she chose her last name well there's little hope of tracking down anyone with the name Smith through social media where does e he claimed to be from KNX searched his memory somewhere in Louisiana I believe ramsy's voice grew brisk like he was ready to wrap up the conversation I'll get in touch with Natalia's sister and see if she can get me a photo sounds good thanks for looking into this I'm happy to do it a smile sounded in ramsy's tone well despite all the craziness you and Mama are going through I hear congratulations are in order Knox felt a momentary burst of pleasure yep we're officially back together when's the wedding I don't know he chuckled your mama wants the works a big proposal flowers the whole enchilada ramsy chuckled after all she's been through I'd say she deserves it that she does Knox agreed a corner of his lip lifted in partial Amusement as soon as I get my ducks in a row you'll be the first to hear about it how's the tour good we're leaving New York Monday morning for La after that concert we'll head to Berlin Germany y'all be safe you he we will you be safe too tell Hartley cash and AA that we love y'all I will remember what I said as far as Christopher Wallace is concerned proceed with caution knox's muscles tightened as he turned and glared at the house don't do anything stupid Rams he added when KNX remained silent I won't Knox grumbled as much as he'd like to knock Christopher's block off he'd refrain however he was going to have a long open discussion with him as soon as he got off the phone with Ramsay no sense in dancing around the topic any longer time to peel back the glitzy layer of professionalism and culture that Christopher had wrapped around himself to reveal the rotten scoundrel within the question was how chapter 12 nice dress Effie said said appraisingly with a large Smile as birdie stepped up to her she was holding a platter of appetizers she selected a cracker topped with a thin strip of smoked salmon and sprinkled with dill delicately she took a small bite and placed it back on her plate after chewing and swallowing she motioned at Birdie's dress I almost bought that one myself I'm glad I didn't or we would have been twinners besides it looks better on you anyway she sighed Effie was stunningly beautiful in a shimmery red dress that accentuated her slender curvy figure she'd straightened her dark hair tonight so that it gleamed like glass her eye makeup was more dramatic than usual giving her a sultry more illustrious appearance birdie could understand why she'd felt such a kinship with Effie she bore a striking resemblance to Zoe especially with her hair straight she glanced at the pictures of Cassie on the mantle Effie resembled her too birdie decided to skip the pleasantries and go straight for the jugular vein why did you tell Knox that I told you about his affair Effie's eyes bulged she made a choking sound as she lurched forward coughing to clear her throat I beg your pardon she placed her hand over her chest her cheeks flamed bright red I never told you about Naomi birdie pressed her lips together I would would have it's too painful and too personal a naked Panic blitzed across Effie's expression birdie leaned closer locking eyes with her who are you she hissed you know who I am Effie Smith she stammered birdie arched an eyebrow are you sure about that Alice a bewildered expression fanned over Effie's features who birdie motioned at the pictures I know about you she seed Cassie's your older sister and Christopher's your stepfather Effie looked like she might pass out I don't know what you're talking about she began blinking so fast that birdie got the impression her eyelashes were about to take flight Effie certainly seemed shocked by the assertion but that didn't mean anything she was probably one heck of an actress did you send the note to KNX about the flowers and Naomi's funeral tears pulled in Effie's eyes it's not what you think she uttered hely you've been in cahoots with Christopher this entire time birdie hissed as hurt battered her insides I trusted you please you don't understand Effie shook her head tears dribbling down her cheeks she bit down on her lower lip sucking in a labored breath excuse me she moved to rush past birdie but birdie caught hold of her arm she pushed out her words through clenched teeth you're not going anywhere until you tell me the truth is everything okay Samantha blankin ship asked as she stepped up to them with inquisitive eyes everything is fine birdie clipped in annoyance if you don't mind eie and I are in the middle of a private conversation she kept her hold on Effie's arm so the girl couldn't escape normally birdie went to Great Lengths to avoid causing a scene but the time for decorum had passed she needed answers and she needed them now okay Samantha harped rolling her eyes she made a point of catching eyes with Effie her voice oozing sweetness if you need anything just say the word she threw birdie a disgruntled look before saching away who are you birdie demanded are you and Christopher responsible for the attack on Knox no Effie blurted I would never do anything to hurt KNX or you her voice broke you have to believe me you've been so kind and generous to me I consider you a friend she looked at birdie with pleading eyes Bird's mind Whirled trying to make sense of Effie's reaction you said things weren't what I thought she eyed Effie willing her to speak the truth okay then tell me how things really are now's your chance to clear yourself a commotion from behind caught Bird's attention releasing Effie's arm she turned and saw Knox and Christopher facing off in what looked to be a brawl her breath froze in her throat her heart drumming out a fast beat Knox what have you done he hit me Christopher squeaked pointing an accusing finger at Knox he was holding his for head a trickle of blood running down the side of his face I didn't hit him Knox roared he did that to himself forgetting about Effie birdie moved closer to the unfolding scene she spotted Jackson and lemon amongst the group of onlookers they looked as shocked as birdie felt Jackson left lemon and went to stand beside Knox is everything okay knox's body was drawn up tight with the Precision of one who knew how to handle himself in a fight he looked as though he could pounce on Christopher any minute the vein in his neck was throbbing his jaw hard as Flint he spoke in a loud tone choosing his words deliberately I asked Christopher if I could have a word Christopher suggested that we go to his study birdie wished that Knox would have come to get her before he went rogue she'd been so caught up in her conversation with Effie that she hadn't even realized he'd gotten off the phone with Ramsay and approached Christopher he attacked me Christopher yelled his face was blood red eyes crazed as he lasered in on Chief blankin ship aren't you going to arrest him his voice had a whiny edge knox's face darkened you lion dog he seeed balling his fists I ought to knock you into next week for all of your lies he looked at Chief BL ship when I confronted Christopher about the things I found out he rammed into the corner of a shelving unit and injured himself then he ran out here claiming that I hit him bird's stomach nodded when she saw the indecision on Chief blanken ship's face he looked from Knox to Christopher as if trying to decide what to do birdie could almost read the thoughts swirling in the heads of the shocked guests first Knox had the fight in front of the boutique and then he was attacked on the side of the road by two thugs his black eye was further incriminating evidence she could tell that everyone was deeming Knox guilty a hot anger boiled inside her one thing she knew about nox was that he was honest to a fault all of those years ago when she confronted Knox about Naomi he admitted that he was having an affair Knox was a straight shooter to the core yes he may avoid telling something that he should but he wouldn't outright lie arrest him Christopher demanded birdie pushed her way through the tight cluster of people and up to Chief blankin ship knox's word is his bond if he says he didn't hit Christopher then you can be darn toot and sure that he didn't she threw Christopher a scathing look he was really starting to tick her off his face paled with shock how could you turn on me his voice trembled after all I've done for you you gave me great medical care which I appreciate I would have expected nothing less considering your reputation as a topnotch doctor she hoped The Bite in her voice would get her message across she was done with Christopher Wallace she turned her Focus to KN tell us everything that happened he took in a deep breath as if composed opposing his thoughts as you all know my son Ramsay is a retired Navy SEAL who now specializes in private security Ramsay's a good friend of mine Chief blankin ship piped in as if to say if Ramsay endorses this then so do I I asked him to do some digging into Christopher's past because some things weren't adding up birdie could feel the balance shifting as inquisitive eyes turned to Christopher this is outrageous Christopher spat I will not be castigated in my own home his words were spoken with outrage but birdie could tell from the high-pitched Edge in his voice and the way his eyes were darting back and forth that he was nervous I'd like to hear what Knox has to say this came from Joe Nelson so would I another person chimed in Chief blankin ship nodded for Knox to continue Christopher seems to make a habit of Falling in Love with his patience his late wife Natalia came to him when she had uterine cancer Christopher treated her birdie heard a harsh intake of breath and realized it had come from her own throat she'd been targeted by Christopher because of her cancer this was insane Natalia died in a car accident but her sister Stephanie suspects Foul Play She said that Natalia was planning to divorce Christopher according to Steph Steph Christopher was controlling and manipulative turning her own daughters against her Christopher shook his head in disgust these are just empty accusations Stephanie is unwell her distress over losing her sister has warped her mind he makes a good point Chief blanken ship said reluctantly you haven't given any concrete proof do you have anything else Knox rushed on Natalia's first husband was killed in a mysterious boating accident in New Zealand his tone was Heavy with disgust first he kills off his stepdaughter's natural father and then he adopts them Christopher barked out a laugh there again you have no proof technically Christopher was right there was no proof however birdie could feel that Knox was correct in his assessment she felt her own outrage mingling with the people around her what kind of Mo moner would do something so terrible and he was praying on his patience she felt sick to her stomach Christopher had prayed on her when she was most vulnerable he'd used her appreciation and respect for his position to make her feel beholden to him thankfully his plan had failed for birdie never really saw him as anything more than a friend but what if her ties to Knox hadn't been as strong Christopher would have come between between them a shiver ran down her spine she could have become his next victim had he actually killed Natalia and her ex-husband that night over dinner Christopher had acted so distraught over Natalia's death and then his demeanor shifted so quickly as he jumped up wanting them to dance maybe his sorrow over Natalia's death was all an act Christopher banged himself into the bookshelf before I could deliver the most damaging evidence against him Knox looked around searching the room before his gaze settled on someone his Liquid Blue Eyes burned with the wrath of a thousand poison tipped arrows birdie followed his line of vision not surprised to discover that Effie was his intended target Christopher coerced his stepdaughter Alice in deposing as one Effie Smith she took a job at Bird's boot so that she could get the inside track into me and birdie Christopher let out a cackle you're insane that's not Alice she's in Europe Knox talked over him it is my firm belief that Christopher and Alice devised a plan to come between me and birdie so that Christopher could seduce her Alice's supposed ex-boyfriend came into the boutique and picked a fight with me then I was attacked by two men from out of town someone either Christopher or Alice mailed a note addressed to me but they sent it to bir's Boutique knowing that she would get it what did the note say Chief blankin ship asked Knox looked at birdie she felt his pain and embarrassment as his eyes questioned if she'd be okay with him telling all birdie hugged her arms nodding for him to continue it wasn't as if the entire town didn't already know about the affair still at this moment the humiliation was as fresh and painful as it had been all those years ago knox's voice was devoid of emotion the note said the flowers were a nice touch at Naomi's funeral but you should have been there birdie heard Samantha blanken ship gasp beside her then Samantha threw birdie a Pious look even though birdie wanted to wither away from the embarrassment she lifted her chin enduring the scrutiny with as much class as she could muster she caught Jackson's eye and could tell that he was also humiliated what do you have to say for yourself Chief blankin ship asked pinning Effie with a penetrating look Effie clasped her hands together in a tight grip her face was Ashen her lips pinched birdie could tell from the way her jaw worked and her shoulders heaved that she was trying hard to control her emotions she sucked in a deep breath and let it out slowly I am not Alice see I told you that she wasn't my daughter Christopher sneered as he flashed KNX a triumphant grin he removed his hand from his forehead and used the back of it to swipe at the blood on his face everything that knocks Romeo just said is a bald-faced lie he said loudly murmurs ran through the crowd as people began talking excitedly amongst themselves Chief blanken ship held up his hand for everyone to quiet down he trained his eyes on Effie so you're asserting that you are not Alice that is correct my name is Effie Smith she spoke the words with a clear note of Pride I'm the one responsible for sending the note to the boutique her eyes sparked fire as she stared straight at Knox with her man of dark hair haloed around her and the stubborn set of her jaw she reminded birdie of a sad lone Warrior facing down a legion of foes Effie's voice cracked through the room like a whip as she kept her gaze fixed on KNX Naomi Smith was my mother I'm your daughter a cry ripped through Bird's throat the floor gave way beneath her and she felt herself fall chapter 13 birdie was only out for what felt like a few seconds that was a new one she'd never passed out before she realized she was lying on the floor Knox was kneeling beside her holding her hand the anguish on his face ripped her insides to shreds I'm so sorry his voice hitched eyes shining with unshed tears as she moved to sit up he helped pull her up she looked around trying to get her bearings are you okay Jackson asked he and lemon were standing beside KNX I'm fine she answered not wanting to worry them the heat of embarrassment overtook her as she glanced around at all of the people staring Jackson noticed Bird's discomfort and jumped into action okay folks he said in a friendly but firm tone move along and give her some space thankfully the crowd dispersed after that Christopher's raised voice Drew her attention she glanced over to where he was arguing with Chief Blankenship I want that man arrested I'll sue him for slandering my name take it easy the chief urged holding up his hands it sounds to me like it was a simple misunderstanding you ran into the bookshelf and KNX was mistaken about Effie's identity if I were you I'd drop the whole thing and hope that Ramsay doesn't decide to keep digging into the death of Natalia's first husband the warning in Chief blankin ship's voice was unmistakable you'll be hearing from my attorney Christopher seeed as he turned on his heel and stormed out of the room Chief blankin ship grinned in Amusement well it looks like the doc ran out on his own party he thrust his thumbs into his belt loops and rocked forward on the balls of his feet how about that he looked at birdie are you okay yeah she sighed a second later she pulled her hand from nox's grasp and rubbed her forehead trying to think I can't believe Effie is your daughter a humorless laugh scratched her throat we didn't see that one coming no we didn't knox's lips turned down as he shook his head I've caused so much pain and suffering a shadow moved over his features as he swore under his breath I was so selfish and stupid he seeed it never even occurred to me that Effie belonged to Naomi I guess I should have connected that they both had the same last name but Smith is so common Effie has always reminded me of Zoe now I know why Knox gave her a searching look where does this leave us her head swung back and forth this is a doozy for sure she was still trying to come to grips with the reality of it all an affair was one thing KNX having another daughter was something else altogether she looked around where's Effie she fled at the same time you passed out birdie frowned where did she go I don't know birdie looked through the wall of Windows apprehension tugging at her it's bad out there and Effie's upset as distraught as she was about the whole thing birdie didn't want Effie to get hurt I don't know how to fix this sorrow coated knox's voice as tears slipped down his cheeks it amazed birdie at how quickly she reached her decision you have to go after her an unexpected shaft of warmth went through her bringing a measure of inexplicable peace all birdie could think was that it was a gift sent Straight from Heaven Effie was a good person birdie had felt that she was glad that Effie wasn't in collusion with Christopher birdie couldn't begin to imagine the pain and suffering Effie had been through through she wished Effie would have been straight with them from the beginning but she really couldn't cast judgment considering the circumstances do you really mean that cautious hope simmered in knox's eyes she caught hold of his hands yes Effie needs you she gave him a meaningful look and you and I don't need any more regrets he smiled through his tears you're one in a million his voice caught what did I ever do to deserve you I love you birdie Romeo I love you too she said softly go she urged he gave her a hesitant look how will you get home I'll get a ride with Jackson and lemon she looked at them for approval of course lemon smiled Knox Rose to his feet as he patted Jackson on the shoulder and offered a GM smile thanks for taking your mama home he said gruffly a long look passed between Knox and Jackson Knox was Jackson's hero no son had ever loved his father more but right now Jackson's expression was rigid with disappointment and hurt birdie could tell that Knox wanted to say something to Jackson to make amends but he didn't know how go on Jackson said motioning with his head with that Knox took a couple of quick steps and then stopped turning back around I don't even know what Effie drives or where she lives a burgundy Toyota Corolla birdie answered she lives in the Caldwell apartment complex over by Carrington Hill she's in Building B the bottom one on the right hand side if you're facing the building I can't remember the apartment number got it he said holding up a finger as he ran off Jackson helped birdie to her feet and gave her a searching look are you okay tears gathered in her eyes it took a superhuman effort to keep them at Bay as she swallowed I'm okay she said weakly let's get you home birdie felt all the eyes in the room on her as she walked out making sure to hold her head high it wasn't until she got to Jackson and lemon's King cab truck and sat down in the back that she let the tears flow freely her hand shook as she brought it to her mouth trying to gain control of her emotions Jackson pounded the steering wheel with the palm of his hand I can't believe Daddy has an illegitimate daughter the pain in his voice tore at Bird's insides lemon placed a hand on his arm to comfort him Jackson sat staring straight ahead for several seconds before turning to face birdie you're the one he hurt the most rage twisted his features Bird's tears subsided as she took in a heavy breath yes she admitted it hurts the mother in her took over her desire to soothe her son trumping her own pain but I know one thing her voice rang with conviction I'm tired of dwelling on the injustices of the past knox's Affair was a long time ago he had no idea that he had a daughter her voice broke More Tears falling as she wiped them away using the palms of her hands Effie's a good person she forced to smile what's one more person to love right compassion stirred in lemon's eyes as she caught hold of Bird's hand and squeezed it you're a good woman one of the best I know Knox is a good man also Jackson grunted he is lemon countered he made a mistake a long time ago and he spent a lot of years paying for it she gave Jackson a pointed look he who is without sin Let Him cast the first stone silence descended over them like a dense black fog that they could never seem to escape finally Jackson sighed you're right right he conceded birdie touched his shoulder we'll get through this she assured him with more certainty than she felt he nodded curtly as he started the engine and pulled onto the street snow was bombing the windshield like meteorites as the wipers worked methodically to Wick it away Jackson drove slowly so he could maintain traction with the road a few times the tires slipped causing Birdie's stomach to lur chch a prayer formed in her mind she prayed that they would make it home safely and she prayed that Knox would be able to work things out with Effie do you want me to take you to the ranch or to your house Jackson asked would you mind taking me to my house Bird's nerves were shot she needed to get a good night's rest and she needed some time to come to grips with this new reality she sat back in her seat her mind spinning as she stared unseeingly out the window Knox had a daughter with another woman the hurt churned acid in her stomach dear Lord she prayed as she balled her hand her fingernails digging into her Palm please give me the strength to come to terms with this situation please help me to be able to fully forgive KNX please help me to be strong for my children and please help me to be kind and loving to Effie chapter 14 it was with a sigh of relief that KNX saw Effie's Toyota Corolla parked in one of the spaces near Building B his brain had concocted all sorts of terrible scenarios of all the ways that Effie could get into an accident as he rushed here as fast as he dared in the Hazardous conditions he felt like none of this was real like he was in the middle of a nightmare that he needed to wake up from when birdie mentioned her theory about Effie being Christopher's stepdaughter Knox had felt like it was a stretch then when ramsy told him that Alice had flunked out of dental school and was gallivanting around Europe with friends Knox felt certain that he and birdie had solved the puzzle he wouldn't have dreamt in a million years that Effie was his daughter she did Bear a slight resemblance to Zoe but as birdie pointed out lots of girls shared similar looks he did a mental calculation Mason was a year old when he'd had the affair he was 25 years old now that would make Fe 24 Knox went hot all over and then Stone Cold his hands were oozing sticky sweat he rubbed them on his pants sucking in a long breath an image of Bird's anguish expression just before She fainted flashed through his mind in all the years he'd known birdie she'd never passed out then there was the hurt and disappointment on Jackson's face Jackson's reaction was indicative of how all of the rest of the kids would react he sat back and rubbed a hand over his forehead as he closed his eyes Jackson had given him that spiel about forgiving himself and handing his burdens over to the Lord Knox was trying but he certainly hadn't counted on this and yet he had no one to blame but himself his selfishness had caused so much pain and suffering it gutted his insides to know that he had a daughter whom he knew nothing about family Birdie the kids and grandkids was knox's entire world he wasn't an emotional guy but right now he either wanted to break down blubbering or punch a hole through a wall he forced his mind onto the Practical details of the situation so he wouldn't completely lose it a thick layer of snow and ice covered the asphalt Effie must be a good driver to have made it home safely he'd slid coming into the parking lot and he was in a four-wheel drive truck he sucked in a long breath and offered a prayer begging for help and forgiveness he asked for help to know what to to say to Effie tears wet his eyes as he jammed a fist in his mouth trying to Tamp down his emotions it boggled his mind that birdie was still speaking to him right now he was in awe of her longstanding patience where he was concerned he knew he was a hard old cuss with a hot temper birdie made him a better man he'd made so many mistakes tonight birdie and Jackson had relived the humiliation of his sins and poor Effie he'd accused her of being in cahoots with Christopher a dark anger cut through him how could Naomi not have told him that he had a daughter why had Effie not come looking for him sooner the whole situation was a tangled mess of ropes with no ends the best that he could hope for right now was to make amends with all of his children and to prove to birdie that he wasn't a total failure he got out of the truck and picked his way across the icy asphalt and sidewalk to get to Effie's apartment birdie had said her apartment was on the bottom right hand side his pulse pumped out a fast beat against his temples as he balled his fist and wrapped on the door no response he knocked again this time louder still nothing he placed a hand on the door a sense of futility Rising inside him were there any words that could fix this situation Effie had grown up without a father his heart groaned in agony please God help me he prayed he created this horrible situation but he didn't have the power to get himself or those he loved out of it only God above could help him now open the door Effie his voice broke please we need to talk the cold seeped into his bones making him feel weary to the core he held his breath waiting 1 second passed 2 3 finally the knob turned as Effie opened the door birdie had only been home 40 minutes or so when her doorbell rang her heart picked up its Pace was it Knox if so it had been a short visit with Effie she went to the door and looked through the people a blend of surprise and irritation Rose in her chest when she realized it was Christopher she made a face what in the heck was he doing here did he actually think she'd let him come into her house if so then he was more delusional than she thought she couldn't believe he'd injured himself and then tried to act as though KNX had punched him her thoughts went to Natalia and her ex-husband who was killed in the the boating accident a shiver tapped down her spine Christopher rang the doorbell again birdie stood by the door frozen her heart pounding out a fast beat against her rib cage she felt so vulnerable here alone Christopher had braved the icy roads to get here what about the people at his party had he asked them to leave or were they still at his home she about jumped out of her skin when he wrapped on the door with his knuckles birdie he called it's me the familiarity in his tone was as irksome as it was concerning I know you're home his voice had a pleasant sing song tone a second later he started whistling a tune it was such an odd thing to do birdie wasn't sure what to think about his behavior especially in consideration of all that had happened during the past few hours also snow was still falling in buckets and it was biting cold Christopher was a strange one birdie was beginning to think that he had a few screws loose in the head he might be a brilliant doctor but he was turning out to be less than impressive as a man I guess I'll catch up with you in several days he said loud enough for the entire neighborhood to hear birdie hardly dared breathe for fear of him hearing her she could sense that he knew she was just on the other side of the door her skin crawled with unease she wished Knox were here birdie was starting to regret allowing Christopher to re-enter her life Knox was right it had been a mistake to let him be her doctor finally he walked off the porch down the walkway through the gate and back to his car whistling as he went his hands were in his pockets and he walked with a slow Meandering gate as if he had all the time in the world relief swept through her when he got into his SUV and drove away for one terrible second all of her confidence was stripped away she hated being afraid in her own home she was starting to feel intimidated by Christopher maybe that was his intent suddenly her load felt too heavy to carry her shoulder sagged as she rested her back against the front door and placed a hand over her chest what a night a s broke through her throat as her shoulders began to shake she slid down to a sitting position and Drew her legs to her chest as she wrapped her arms around her knees the dam broke loose as she allowed the emotion to overtake her she didn't know how long she sat there and cried finally when her tears were spent she wiped her nose and sniffled her eyes were big and swollen she should have never made the vow about how she would never allow any anything or anyone to ever come between her and Knox again she'd been so sure of her resolve almost prideful about it well she was certainly eating Humble Pie now she raked her hair away from her face as she bowed her head and said a prayer she prayed for clarity and for understanding mostly she prayed for peace and comfort in that moment she despised Naomi Smith for the affair then she felt instantly guilty Naomi was dead and it wasn't healthy or productive to have such animosity for The Departed birdie thought of something that Effie had said how she'd lost someone close to her to cancer it must have been tough for Effie to know that birdie had overcome her cancer when her own mother hadn't mechanically birdie got up off the floor her muscles were stiff she went into her bathroom and peeled off her dress leaving it in a heap on the floor the hot water from the shower Felt Good On Birdie's skin helping to release the knots of tension between her shoulder blades her mind was a hot pot of teeming thoughts coming at her faster than she could process them Myriad emotions flooded birdie anger sadness confusion the only thing she could do was to keep repeating to herself that there was always room in her heart and in the family to love another person when Noel first came back to Franklin and was questioning whether she should give Holden a second chance birdie encouraged her to forgive him for his past mistakes she told Noel that Holden was a different person than he'd been before all of that was true Noel and Holden were gloriously happy now with a baby on the way Zoe had been at her wits end when she moved back to Franklin she was able to work things out with Briggs the love of her life the only life that birdie could imagine the only life that she'd ever wanted was with Knox she' just never imagined all of the trials and roadblocks that would be thrown at them she wanted to break free from the past she wanted to be able to freely forgive Knox she wanted to be able to accept Effie into their lives she just didn't know how she was supposed to do all of those things right now everything was so muddled the only sliver of sunlight that birdie could see through the dark suffocating clouds was that she'd felt a kinship with Effie from the very beginning maybe it was because on some level birdie had picked up on similarities between Effie and Zoe and perhaps Effie and Knox or maybe the closeness she felt to Effie was a gift from Heaven given to birdie so that she'd be able to navigate her way through this tricky and heart-wrenching situation ation the kids would need birdie to be strong also KNX needed her she startled when she heard a noise she cocked her ears as prickles of apprehension broke over her skin her heart in her throat she turned off the water and listened nothing maybe she was imagining things her body went weak with relief as she turned back on the water and finished washing her hair for weeks after the attack on Christmas Eve that had taken place several years prior birdie had been frightened by her own shadow it had taken a superhuman mental effort for her to move past the fear she didn't want to go back to that again hearing the bit about Christopher allegedly causing Natalia and her ex-husband's death had triggered some of the old apprehension also it didn't help that Christopher had come here tonight and then he'd whistled that tune for the life of her birdie couldn't imagine what Christopher thought he could possibly say to mend their friendship the time for that was long P at least he'd left without incident hopefully Christopher would get the message soon that she no longer wanted any association with him a new thought occurred to her nodding her stomach she'd have to find another oncologist her cancer was gone and she hoped with all her heart that it would stay gone however she'd still need to have routine checkup and mammograms hot needles pelted over her Christopher had been a huge help to her in her time of need regardless of what happened from here on out she would always be grateful that he'd helped her through the cancer she swallowed commanding herself to get a grip all she could do was to take things one step at a time there were plenty of other capable doctors out there hopefully she was in the clear and would no longer need a close association with an oncologist when she got out of the shower she towel dried off and put on her pajamas a cup of herbal tea would help soothe her nerves and then she was going to bed hopefully she'd be able to sleep instead of tossing and turning all night long she wondered if she'd hear from Knox tonight she hoped he could reach some form of understanding with Effie the heart was an interesting thing even now as torn up and as confused as she was about all of this she still longed longed for KNX she wanted to feel his strong arms around her and bury her head against his chest she wanted him to tell her that everything would be okay her cell phone was on the nightstand beside her bed maybe Knox had called or texted when she was in the shower she was padding across the carpet to get her phone when she caught movement out of the corner of her eye gasping she Whirled around and saw a dark shape looming in the doorway ch Christopher her hand went to her chest a white hot anger scorching through her what are you doing here the next second fear lodged a cold cylinder down her throat as she swallowed her brain processing the full scope of the situation Christopher had broken into her home shakes ran through her body as she glanced at her phone on the nightstand she wondered if she could somehow get to it and press 911 before Christopher forgot to her I just want to talk he gave her a reproving look as he pressed his lips together shaking his head all of this could have been avoided if you just opened the door earlier I knew you were right there watching me his expression grew ponderous I told myself before coming over here tonight that I would give you one more chance to prove your loyalty to me he clicked his tongue then when you refused to answer the door well I knew our time together was officially over he gave her a wounded look you need to leave she forced her voice to sound commanding a white square bandage was neatly taped over his forehead he changed from his tailored suit into jeans a black hoodie and Tennis Shoes birdie had never seen Christopher dressed so casually his eyes held A peculiar glint and she could sense a feel feverish excitement about him don't be scared he spoke the words softly placatingly as if speaking to a child I'm not going to hurt you her senses went on full alert was he saying that because he was going to hurt her he pulled something from out of the front pocket of the hoodie Terror froze her heart when she realized two things he was holding a gun and wearing nital gloves chapter 15 may I come in Knox motioned for a second Effie looked like she might refuse but finally she nodded and stepped back to let him Enter he stepped inside and glanced around the apartment was neatly kept and well decorated in a style similar to Bird's he wondered how much Effie had been influenced by birdie quite a lot it seemed Effie LED him into the tiny living room have a seat he sat down on the couch as she folded into the chair across from him Effie was still wearing the dress she'd had on earlier but she'd removed her shoes making her look younger than her 24 years now that he knew Effie's origin it wasn't hard to see traces of Naomi in her Naomi's hair had been curly while Effie had worn it straight tonight Knox remembered it being curly the other times he'd seen her if his memory served him correctly the color of her golden brown eyes was similar to Naomi's and she had Naomi's pointy chin her coloring was similar to Zoe's with her dark glossy hair and thick lashes also she had high cheekbones like Zoe no question about it Effie was a beautiful girl her expression was one of hard Amusement as she endured his scrutiny Knox tried to collect his thoughts I'm so sorry I didn't know his voice dribbled off to silence as he scooted to the edge of the couch and clasped his hands together why didn't you come and find me sooner because I didn't know she fired back my mother didn't tell me who you were until shortly before she passed away his anger returned with a Vengeance engulfing him in a hot tunnel of flames it was wrong of Naomi to keep that from you her eyes blazed turning them several Shades Darker you have no right to cast judgment on my mother she seeed Knox was taken back by her Outburst there it was that torque that let him know that she was indeed his daughter he held up a hand keeping his voice even I meant no disrespect she studied him for a minute as if she weren't sure that he was on the level before settling down my mother loved you her eyes narrowed to slits you broke her heart there was nothing he could say I'm sorry seemed like such a lame response he couldn't lie to Effie and tell her that he'd loved Naomi while he cared about her he'd never been in love with her like he was with birie I regret what happened he said hely it was a mistake seeing the distraught look on Effie's face he quickly backpedal I don't mean that you are a mistake her eyes reigned the wrath of a judge jury and executioner all rolled into one Knox didn't blame Effie for her anger had he been in her shoes he'd feel the same way do you know what it's like to grow up without a father to have a piece of you that's missing her voice trembled with indignation to have a mother whose heart was broken to Smither she loved you knock sucked in a breath I know he felt like a 100 lbs of stones had been heaped at top his heart he'd always known that Naomi loved him she'd taken the opportunity to re-enter his life when he was at his lowest and on the outs with birdie even then he'd made no promises to Naomi however Naomi was determined determined to win him back at all costs he should have been stronger and resisted her advances his weakness disgusted him I'll tell you what I told birdie I don't know how to fix this she grunted in disgust as she clamped her arms tightly over her chest and looked away his life was a shattered sheet of glass and he was trying to sift through the fragments without getting sliced to pieces granted Knox knew he deserved every ounce of the Wrath e he was aiming at him still it didn't make it any easier to know how to deal with the situation why did you come to Franklin and why did you take a job working for birdie at the boutique her voice took on a shrill Edge as her words gushed out when I found out who you were I was livid her features Twisted to a rigid mask I wanted to see what kind of man could desert his own daughter and the mother of his child one who never knew that child existed sadness washed over him he debated if he should speak his next words but he wanted to be straight with Effie he took in a quick breath and one who had a responsibility to another woman after birdie had asked Knox to move out to give her some space he'd fought off Naomi's advances for several weeks until one night she showed up on his doorstep wearing a trench coat he told her it wasn't a good time but she just laughed and pushed her way into the house anyway a few minutes later she dropped the coat and he realized she wasn't wearing anything underneath it he then caved after that his marriage imploded oh how he wished he could go back and relive that one moment again he wished he'd had the strength like the bibl un Joseph to flee from pti's wife but he couldn't tell Effie any of this no way could he shed a negative light on her mother also KNX was a firm believer in owning up to his mistakes more than anything right now he wished that he could soothe away Effie's hurt expression it was astounding how quickly he was starting to care about her when I first came to Franklin I hated birdie she paused as tears Rose in her eyes then I realized what a good person she is so I started hating you understanding registered which is why you were trying to warn me away from birdie Vindication flashed in her eyes exactly that's why you sent the note to the boutique about me sending flowers to the funeral Knox wondered on some level if Effie knew that her mother was partly responsible for the affair however it would be easier for her to shift the blame onto the father whom she'd never met I had a friend mail it from Marshall Texas where are you from after graduating from high school I took a job at a blinds and drapery shop in shreport Louisiana makes sense he did a quick mental calculation shreport is what 40 or 50 minutes from Marshall she nodded his next question was tough to get out but he knew he had to know or else it would eat away at him did your mama ever find anyone else she pinched her lips together no a Hot River of guilt ran through Knox do you know the history behind mine and your mama's Affair not really she retorted he stared unseeingly into the distance as the memories rushed back he'd have to give Effie the edited version so he wouldn't make Naomi look bad your mama and I dated off and on in high school birdie and I started having problems after Mason was born birdie suffered from postpartum depression but she was working her way through it then her mama died of ovarian cancer and it sent birdie over the edge she pushed me away his voice caught as he took in a breath to gain control of his emotions it was a tough time time I had given up my music career a few years earlier because I didn't want to be away from birdie or the kids I started to resent that decision I was angry lonely Naomi stepped back into the picture our Affair was brief lasting only a few weeks regret tightened his stomach in a Relentless fist in the end I hurt birdie and Naomi he gave her a grim smile and you birdie forgave you for the affair her voice was devoid of emotion making it impossible to get a read on her demeanor yes it took several years but eventually she did his eyes grew moist Bird's a remarkable woman tonight after learning who you were birdie encouraged me to come here and work things out Effie's face fell I thought you came here of your own accord I did did he assured her there was nothing that I wanted more in the entire world than to come here and talk to you I was just grateful that birdie was supportive that speaks to the kind of woman she is you don't deserve her Effie spouted no I don't but I'm glad she's in my corner Jackson hates me hurt tinged her features I saw his expression when he realized that I'm your daughter Knox raised an eyebrow and his half sister you're no longer an only child you now have six siblings he gave her a pointed look one thing you'll learn about being a Romeo is that we take care of our own the longing in her expression nearly moved him to tears for all her fire and brimstone wrath Effie was hurting his gut was telling him that she'd come to Franklin searching for her family a cautious hope settled into her eyes I don't know if they'll accept me he smiled oh they will I can guarantee you that he chuckled I'm not sure how Zoe will feel about not being the only girl anymore but she'll get over it I like Zoe she said frankly I admire her for pursuing her passion in her career yes it took her a while to find her way but she's definitely on the right path now nox's thoughts took another Direction I still have a couple more questions weariness seeped into her eyes as she nodded was your ex-boyfriend a set up to make me look bad in front of the town no she blurted eyes bulging her words Spilled Out in a breathless jumble everything with Travis was just as it seemed I had no idea that he would show up at the boutique I was mortified and humiliated color rushed to her cheeks I should have never gotten involved with Travis she muttered he caught me at a weak moment he threw her a sage look yep that's what happened to me with the affair she blinked in Surprise and he could tell that she was trying to process it maybe she'd file it away so that in time she could come to terms with it he went to his other question are the two men who attacked me associated with Travis her head swung back and forth I don't think so but I'm not sure I haven't heard a peep from Travis since you had the fight with him for what it's worth I'm sorry about the attack I hope that Travis didn't have anything to do with it I suspect that it was Christopher Wallace his insides tightened Effie wrinkled her nose do you really think that Christopher killed his wife and her first husband I'd say it's a definite possibility he fired back she gave him an incredulous look did he really run into the corner of a bookshelf yep sure did wow she uttered I thought Christopher was the real deal not hardly KNX scoffed his phone rang he fished it out of his pocket and then silenced it not recognizing the number you can get that if you want nah if it's important they'll call back how would you like to come for dinner tomorrow night at the ranch Gina's making a huge spread who's Gina my cook and housekeeper Amusement colored her features wow to be such a tough Cowboy you're sort of pampered the comment came at him like a sucker punch he was about to defend himself until he saw the teasing glint in her eyes he tipped his head a smile tugging at his lips you know what he mused I reckon you're going to fit into the family just fine she blinked in surprise but looked pleased Knox had to fight the urge to Spring from his seat and throw his arms around her but he knew that wouldn't end well he'd have to take baby steps where Effie was concerned he thought of something else what's your middle name Lynn Effie Lynn Romeo I like it Smith she corrected Effie Lynn Smith she gave him a challenging look a corner of his lip tugged up Effie Lynn Romeo Smith she laughed in Surprise we'll see about that his phone buzzed again it was the same Tennessee number answer it Effie encouraged with the sigh of acquiescence he slid his finger across the screen the voice on the phone was near yelling Knox held up a hand wait a minute slow down I can't understand a word you're saying who is this a second later his eyes shot open wide as his lungs squeezed oh no he ran a hand over his forehead I'll be right there call 911 chapter 16 no sudden moves Christopher barked as he pointed the gun at birdie Talons of alarm clawed at the base of Birdie's skull why are you doing this tears rushed to her eyes hands up she did as he demanded her body trembling all over her pulse thrashed wildly against her temples as her throat closed up a wave of dizziness assaulted her as she fought to get a grip her brain was finding it difficult to merge the cultured solicitous doctor with the crazed man holding holding her at gunpoint don't move a muscle or you're dead he ordered with a Savage expression she shrank back when he stalked towards her for one terrible second she wondered if he would rape her where are your medicines I I don't understand he rattled off the medications she was taking they're in the cabinet in the bathroom get them he ordered motioning with his gun why are you doing this her voice broke Christopher please shut up he screamed shocking her into silence move he motioned with the gun a curious numbness settled over her as she went into the bathroom to get the meds a prayer wrenched through her mind please help me images of Knox the kids and grandkids flashed through her mind her heart crushed in despair it was ironic that she'd been so terrified of dying from cancer and now her life would be snuffed out by a cruel act of violence she gathered the bottles of pills and was about to place them on the counter but he stopped her let's go to the kitchen she forced her feet to move in that direction all the while her brain was frantically working trying to figure out how to get away from him she could dash out the front door but she couldn't outrun a bullet still that might be better than whatever evil plan Christopher had in store for her put the meds on the table he commanded when they got to the kitchen the second she put the bottles down he shoved her into a chair her anger crowded out the fear you won't get away with this he sat down across from her keeping the gun trained on her as he rifled through the bottles of medicine yes this will do nicely he remarked in a giddy tone nicely for What Fear iced through her making her feel numb and Powerless to act she needed to keep her anger blazing so it could Stoke her courage another prayer ran through her mind he glanced at the kettle on the stove you're going to make a nice little cocktail he dipped his head thoughtfully as his voice took on a detached recitative tone you came home from the party reeling from the news about knox's illegitimate daughter that coupled with the news that your cancer has returned was too much for you her lungs squeezed like an anaconda had her in its grip choking off her air my Cancer's not back you said my mamogram was clear her head began to spin it was he said pleasantly as he gave her an affectionate look don't worry beautiful your cancer is gone her throat mercifully opened allowing her to draw in a sliver of air her anger returned full force shooting heat through her veins are you saying that you're going to falsify my medical record so that it looks as though my caner has returned it won't be easy but there are ways to pull it off her brain Whirled like I said you won't get away with this you came to my door earlier people in the neighborhood would have seen you he grinned in Amusement you mean that nosy twit who lives across the street his expression hardened I'm sure she was watching me if you'll remember that's why I spoke so loudly the woman would have seen me leaving how did you break into my house she glanced at the back door leading off from the kitchen you came in through there right it will show a forced entry I picked the lock didn't see that one coming did you see I have skills that you didn't know about his voice had a teasing sing song Ring to it Bird's alarm system had been on the brink Knox had been after her to get it fixed but with so much going on she'd not gotten around to it I've thought of everything he continued smugly I always do he was so pompous and arrogant no wonder Knox detested him what about the guests at your party he laughed in Amusement as if they were playing a game due to the trauma of KNX punching me in the forehead I asked everyone to leave he lifted an eyebrow well almost everyone Knox didn't punch you her acrid anger Rose a sour taste in her throat you rammed yourself into a bookshelf just like he said a hard smile smile curved his lips KNX will get exactly what he deserves horror overtook her meaning what Christopher gave her a funny look like she was slow to understand he'll have to live with the knowledge that his affair and illegitimate daughter contributed to your suicide chills ran through her body birie decided right then and there that if she must die tonight it wouldn't be dosy she would fight tooth and nail getting shot before she would take any pills you're responsible for those men attacking knocks aren't you she could tell from Christopher's self-satisfied expression that he was she went back to something he'd said you said almost everyone had left your party what did you mean by that oh yes he gave her an appraising look I'm glad you asked I have an airtight Alibi for this evening he leaned forward Amusement simmering in his eyes you ready for this Dr Sonia Jennings the redhead who was your date for the party she's the one he sang as we speak Sonia is sleeping peaceably in my bed when she awakes in the morning groggy and disoriented she'll find me cuddled up next to her you drugged her birdie surmised disgust turning her stomach sour Sonia will realize that you weren't with her the entire night and then your Alibi will be shot she'd never felt like she hated anyone as much as Christopher Wallace not even Naomi how could she not have seen the monster behind the polished mask he looked at her in jeering Amusement I don't think so Sonia has an affinity for wine beer whiskey and any other form of alcohol she can get her hands on she has gone to Great Lengths to cover up her drinking problem she won't put up a fuss also she's been after me for months she'll be overjoyed when she wakes up to learn that she finally snagged me his eyes snapped with anger see birdie plenty of other women desire me well they can have you she retorted on a silver platter he pushed out a long put out sigh as much as I hate it I'll have to lower my standards and Fain attraction for Sonia at least until things settle down his eyes flickered with yearning it should be you in my bed Over My Dead Body she hissed then realized the gravity of her current situation she wanted to curl up in a ball and break down into tears but that wouldn't do her any good right now she had to fight we could have been so happy he gave her a wistful look I moved back to Franklin because of you his jaw tightened I'm just sorry that you didn't have enough fortitude to break free from KNX as I was saying news of knox's illegitimate daughter was too much for you to take his expression turned sorrowful his voice rolling with pity birdie got the feeling Christopher was putting on a performance for some unknown audience then it hit her causing her stomach to Roy he was practicing for how he would react to the police after she was gone I'm so sorry noox was such a terrible husband he betrayed you birdie with another woman and yet after all I've done to help you you were still going to take him back rage boiled over his features turning his complexion and ugly red Knox is a better man than you'll ever be she heaved through gritted teeth he grunted in disgust you're a stupid woman just like Natalia what happened to Natalia you killed her didn't you Natalia was planning to leave me he sneered when Natalia first came to my clinic she was at an emotional low just as you were his voice grew fervent I knew that Natalia had been sent to me for a higher purpose his brows Drew together she was a fragile bird with broken wings I picked her up and put her back together his face darkened I fought off the angel of death gave her another chance at life his voice grew whiny with disbelief his eyes going glassy and yet she was so ungrateful he focused on birdie as if coming back to the present and reality just like you that's not true I've always been grateful for you and your friendship Christopher think of all the good that you do in the world you've helped so many of your patients you don't have to do this terrible thing her stomach churned she glanced around the kitchen looking for something she could use as a weapon the knives were in a holder on the counter did she dare try to grab one while she knew that she couldn't fight off a gun with a knife she had to try and think of some way to survive I hold life and death in my hands every day he roared I gave your life back to you why is it so hard for you to show me some gratitude gratitude is not the same as love she fired back Knox and I have a long history together he's the father of my children of course I would choose him she looked Christopher in the eye I will always choose him you're just like Natalia he screamed wielding the gun wildly did you kill Natalia's ex-husband Christopher was coming unglued if she could somehow manage to get the gun out of his hand she might have a Fighting Chance Doug was a putts he grumbled he deserved to die Cassie and Alice are much better off with me than they ever were with him he bragged did Natalia realize that you had Doug killed his expression turned sour she hired an investigator to look into Doug's accident she just couldn't let it go she said she was going to the police his lower lip trembled I didn't want Natalia to die tears glistened in his eyes as he gave birdie a pleading look you understand don't you I do she said smoothly recognizing that Christopher was going in and out of Lucidity his voice broke as he put a hand to his mouth the night of Natalia's accident we argued I told her that if she went to the police it would be her word against mine he let out a cackle a macabra smile spreading over his lips I reminded her that a doctor's word carries a lot lot more clout than the Babbling of a housewife Cassie and Alice love me more than they ever loved Natalia she would have lost them both had she divorced me so you didn't cause Natalia's accident no Natalia was driving too fast her car went off the road a sob broke through his lips I would give anything to have her back birdie thought he was going to break into tears but like the night he'd asked her to dance his demeanor immediately shifted this time his expression was filled with malice time for you to make that herbal tea you're so fond of he gave her a conspiratorial look remember that birdie how you told me that herbal tea helps you relax see I remember the small details because I care he giggled it's too bad that Knox and I are on such poor terms otherwise he might have let me give your eulogy he pursed his lips I would have given you one heck of a eulogy birdie excitement coated his voice think of the unique perspective I could have offered the former boy friend turned doctor his eyes roved over her with a flame of Desire that turned her stomach Golden Hair Jade eyes a figure as fit as any 30-year-old the epitome of Southern Grace and charm his voice took on a lofty Lil as he went an octave deeper like he was digging into his chest as Physicians we work so hard to treat the body that we often Overlook the turmoil taking place in the mind she could tell from the way he was looking past her that he was again delivering an oration to his imaginary audience Bird's heart Twisted time was counting down she had to act fast he sighed impatiently as he glanced at the clock on the microwave it's getting late and I'm tired his eyes hardened time to make your tea no sudden movements he warned as birdie stood and walked to the stove an idea began to take shape she reached for the kettle filling it with water she placed it on a burner and turned the knob on high get a mug out of the cupboard and a bag of tea Christopher directed she made a point of keeping her movements slow and controlled all the while her skin crawled with the knowledge that a gun was aimed at her when she was done she turned to face him resting her back against the counter with any luck you'll go right to sleep and won't feel a thing he said kindly with any luck you'll feel the pain every ounce of the pain mean I'm about to deliver you her brain shouted when the kettle whistled she reached for it and poured the water into the mug before adding the tea bag her heart pounded with the knowledge of what she was about to do as she carried the mug to the table this has to be right Christopher said speaking more to himself than her these capsules will work nicely he pushed three bottles at her open each one and remove at least 10 capsules from each bottle it's now or never her mind screamed as she reached for the mug and sosed the water into his face she dropped the mug turned and ran for the back door he shrieked in pain and cursed just as Bird's hand grasped the door Christopher yanked her hair jerking her back stupid move he hissed into her ear as his arm encircled her neck stop it or I'll shoot you right now she felt the cold press of metal against her Temple but instead of rening her powerless it fueled her anger she fought and clawed with all of her might but she was no match for his strength he threw her to the floor she looked up to see him standing over her the gun pointed at her head just like Natalia he seeed always have to do things the hard way he cocked the pistol as she braced for the impact I'm sorry were the two words that ran through her mind she was sorry for Knox and the kids for the terrible sadness her death would cause them she was sorry that she'd miss out on seeing and knowing all of her grandkids she was sorry that she'd not listen to Knox from the very beginning when he told her that something was off about Christopher most of all she was sorry that she wouldn't get to be with Knox now that the two of them had finally come full circle KNX having a daughter from the affair had seemed like such an insurmountable obstacle a short while ago now birdie would give anything for the chance to get to know Effie for who she truly was nox's daughter she hoped her death would be quick then came the banging birdie are you there open up an incredulous laugh rippled through Bird's throat it was VI don't say a word Christopher muttered I can see someone in the kitchen Viola grumbled open the door or I'm calling the police indecision washed over Christopher's features the left side of his face was Lobster red and starting to swell from the boiling water I'll open the door and tell her to go away birdie Viola yelled impatiently if I don't she'll wake up the whole neighbor neighorhood fine he tightened his hold on the gun but no funny business or the old broad gets it too birdie Rose to her feet her Shin was stinging making her realize she'd scraped it on the cabinet when she fell she smoothed down her hair which was still wet from the shower as she went to the door and opened it hey Christopher was standing just out of view the gun trained on her Viola assessed her a deep frown deepening the lines around her eyes and mouth are you okay I'm fine she offered a won smile just tired Viola looked past her may I come in she locked gazes with birdie her eyes trying to convey some sort of information I came to get the casserole dish I lent you Viola was leaning against a cane birdie had never seen Viola with a cane before and one wondered if she'd used it to Trek across the snow without falling Viola never came to the back door she had to know that Christopher was here go home and call the police birdie shouted with her mind now's not a good time birdie protested before she could say anything else Viola pushed her way into the kitchen forcing birdie to step back with a speed that birdie didn't know Viola possessed she used her cane to whack back Christopher's arm knocking the gun out of his hand get the gun Viola screamed as birdie scrambled to retrieve it Christopher was faster however he grabbed it and pointed it at Viola Fury twisted his red blotched face making him look more creature than human she gets it first he screamed as Viola stumbled back her eyes large with fear as she clutched her cane with her bony fingers there was a flash of movement behind Christopher the instant before Knox tackled him the gun went skidding across the floor birdie dashed to retrieve it Knox and Christopher rolled on the floor each trying to get the upper hand but the fight was shortlived Knox ended up on top pinning Christopher with his weight Christopher wed trying to escape but Knox held him fast an image flashed through Bird's mind of Knox and Christopher fighting out by the pool all those years ago history repeated itself as Knox Drew back his fist and struck for the second time he knocked Christopher out cold with a single punch that'll teach him Viola cheered lifting her cane in the air KNX Rose to his feet and went to Birdie's side are you okay tears bubbled in her eyes as she nodded I'm good she breathed a feeling of gratitude gushing over her I'm so sorry I didn't listen to you about that monster she muttered he's moving Viola warned pointing at Christopher who groaned I can guarantee you that he won't get far Knox promised his voice sharper than the blade of a knife siren sounded in the distance about time Viola muttered I didn't think they'd ever get here a person could grow fingernails in the time it takes for the police to answer an emergency call the roads are a solid sheet of ice and it's still snowing like crazy I'm sure that's why their response time is slower KNX said practically a little snow shouldn't keep people from doing their job Viola retorted when I was teaching school I never missed a day of work due to inclement weather giddy laughter bubbled in Bird's throat as she and Knox shared a look she was so happy to be alive she looked at Christopher who was still down on the floor as a shiver ran through her she hoped he'd be put away for a long long time Viola's voice grew contemplative you know my sons have been bugging the Poo out of me telling me how I shouldn't go anywhere without my cane a Ry grin slipped over her lips I suppose it comes in handy every once in a while thank you birdie turned to viola and flung her arms around her you saved me emotion Rose in her throat I was praying so hard for a miracle a smile tugged at her lips I never imagined that my prayers would be answered by a 90 lb woman with one heck of a lethal cane 97b thank you very much Viola clipped lifting her chin you're my hero birdie uttered Biola just beamed after after the police rushed in and hauled Christopher away in handcuffs birdie Knox and Viola gave their reports to the police before retiring to the living room how did you know I was in trouble birdie asked directing her question to both Knox and Viola KNX spoke first I was at Effie's apartment when Viola called me twice Viola cut in giving Knox a censoring look you answered the second time birdie thought viola might ask who eie was but she didn't news traveled so fast through the Great Vine in Franklin that birdie wondered if Biola had already heard what happened at the party and realized that Effie was knox's daughter I'm so glad I did Knox answered as he turned to birdie Viola told me that she'd seen Christopher go around to the back of the house and feared you might be in trouble I told her to call 911 and then rushed over here the roads are so bad that it took me a while to get here birdie turned her Focus to Viola thank you a lump of emotion formed in her throat I will be forever in your debt talk about Brave Viola was a Wonder Viola waved a hand it's no big deal she chuckled her eyes flashing Christopher thought he was so smart with his dog and pony show what do you mean birdie asked dubiously all of that idiotic whistling and then his talk of coming back to check on you in a few days I knew it was a bunch of baloney her voice quivered with intensity so I kept watching out the window sure enough I saw his SUV crawl back by with the headlights off I went to the other side of the house and looked out my bedroom window he parked in the driveway of the griggsby's house you know the one that's for sale when he went around the back of your house I called Knox and then the police she frowned of course I never dreamt that it would take a Month of Sundays for the police to get here that's when I knew I had to act or you'd be dead by the time they arrived tears Rose in Bird's eyes you saved my life she turned to Knox who was sitting beside her his arm draped around her shoulders as did you and over whelming feeling of Love Rose in her breast as they shared a tender smile Viola cleared her throat well I'd best be getting home I recognize that look I take it you kiddos could use some alone time heat Rose in Birdie's cheeks as Viola chuckled eyes sparkling with mirth I remember how it is I may be old but I'm not dead Viola chided I'll walk you back back to your house Knox offered I've got it Viola countered a large satisfied smile curved her lips I figure if I can face down some crazed lunatic I can get myself back across the street in one piece my kids are always telling me to keep my nose out of other people's business her face lit with Amusement I wonder what they'll say about this you can stick your nose in my business any any time birdie said with conviction be careful what you say Knox teased or you'll create a monster hey Viola countered with a frown but her eyes were dancing when it was just the two of them birdie and Knox went back to the couch and sat down Knox gathered her hands in his I almost lost you he said hely he sucked in a breath I keep thinking what if I had not gotten here in time time but you did she reminded him gently she understood what Knox was experiencing because it was happening to her too the wh ifs kept eating away at her what if Viola hadn't shown up when she did what if she'd not called Knox there were so many miracles that had taken place tonight birdie knew in an up close and personal way that the Lord really was in the details of her life tonight at the party I couldn't believe that you were so understanding about Effie I was she compressed her lips as she cleared the frog in her throat on the outside his expression was both surprised and concerned as she continued however it was ripping me apart on the inside her voice hitched I was praying that I'd be able to forgive you and accept Effie into our lives I understand he uttered pain and disappointment streaking over his features she removed her hands from his and touched his jaw however it's funny how staring death in the face makes everything suddenly become crystal clear a smile tipped her lips I realize that I can't keep punishing you for something that happened years ago Effie's a fine person and there's always room for one more she's living proof that good can come from our mistakes Effie is a fine person we had a good talk it won't be easy but I think we'll be able to work everything out one small step at a time I'm so glad he rewarded her with a glowing smile his eyes shining with moisture you're one in a million so are you I love you Knox Romeo right here right now she felt like the luckiest woman on the planet I love you he peered deeply into her eyes thanks for giving me another chance a tear slipped from the corner of her eye and dribbled down her cheek I guess we're both being given another chance to love and to live she paused enunciating her next words not just for his benefit but for hers too let let's do ourselves a favor and not waste this one laughter rumbled in his throat amen he boomed as he sealed his promise with a long demanding kiss that sizzled through her blood and caused her spirit to soar epilogue one month later dad G I forgot my reading glasses Knocks grimaced as he shook his head we can go back and get them birdie suggested are you sure you don't mind not at all she answered breezily as she threw him a teasing grin I know how bent out of shape you get when you have to hold the menu a mile away to see it he chuckled dry problems not my eyes I just need a longer arm the corner of her mouth twitched in Amusement yep that's it Knox had just picked her up from her house they were heading to Atlanta to watch a private pre-concert that cash AA and Hartley were putting on this one was different from the norm because Mason and Selma were joining them as special guests tomorrow night would be the official concert Knox and birdie planned to stay the entire weekend in Atlanta also Jackson lemon Zoe Briggs and the kids were driving down for the concert even Noah and Piper were flying into Atlanta it would be wonderful to see the whole family were you able to talk Effie into going to the concert I tried but she says she's not ready to be around the entire family at once she is an only child birdie pointed out the Romeos can be a lot to take in hey Knox protested what are you saying birdie laughed I'm saying that I'm glad you're giving Effie plenty of space to work things out ah I know how how you operate that's your polite way of reminding me not to push her too hard exactly e he was still working at the boutique she and birdie had been able to have lots of good conversations over the past several weeks the work Dynamic had turned out to be a tremendous blessing for both birdie and Effie little by little the two of them were working past the awkwardness of the situation as Knox turned the truck around to head to the ranch birdie angled in her seat towards him has Effie mentioned anything to you about her plans for the future he frowned I thought she was going to stay in Franklin birdie bit back a smile Knox was fiercely protective over Effie but in his Zeal to bring her into the family he was smothering her a bit birdie knew this because Effie had confided it to her she is for a while but she wants to pursue her educational goals what goals his brows knitted together if he hasn't talked to me about any goals he pouted birdie placed a hand on his arm you have to remember that Effie grew up with only a mother she feels more comfortable talking to females meaning you yes and Zoe it was impressive how Zoe had taken Effie under her Wing birtie couldn't have been any prouder of Zoe as the oldest child her opinion carried a lot of weight in the family once her brothers realized that she'd accepted Effie as a sister it didn't take them long to follow suit he relaxed his grip on the steering wheel I can live with that he threw her a grin I'm glad you Effie and Zoe are getting along so well me too as you know Effie has a knack for decorating she wants to become an Interior Designer oh wow that's great I'll support her in whatever she decides to do fantastic she punched with a bright smile I knew that would be the case which is why I told Effie you'd pay for her to attend Savannah College of Art and Design it's one of the best colleges in the country for design a lopsided grin pulled at knox's mouth a I see what's going on here this is a setup birdie didn't skip a pretty much mellow laughter rumbled in his throat I see how you operate he drawled he reached for her hand and linked his fingers through hers she sighed in contentment as she relaxed back in her seat birdie looked out the window at the passing landscape her mind rolling back through the past several weeks things were finally starting to settle back down to normal of course there was still Christopher's looming trial where birdie would have to testify if y an official date had not been set but birdie figured it would take place in a month or two thankfully Christopher was being held without bail knowing that he was behind bars was a huge Comfort to her especially on those nights when Every Little Creek in the house sent her heart racing she'd had several nightmares about Christopher where he was either trying to force liquid down her throat or shoot her birdie hoped that with the passage of time the trauma of the ordeal would Fade Into the background she had so much to live for holding Noel's beautiful baby girl in her arms was a testament of that as birdie had peered down into baby Jolie's fresh pink face she'd hardly been able to contain her emotion she'd felt a whisper of her sister in the room with her and knew that Jolie was smiling down from heaven grateful that Bird's life had been extended so she could be there not only for Noel but also for her own kids and grandkids birdie looked at Knox drinking in the clean hard line of his jaw he was so rugged and masculine her blood warmed as she looked at his lips thinking of the fire and passion his very touch elicited in her what he murmured with a lopsided Smile as he felt her gaze she Shrugged her voice musing I was just thinking about the kids and all of the questions will have to answer this weekend questions about what it was cute how quickly the corners of his lips turned down in mild annoyance KNX didn't like having to explain himself to anyone not even his kids they'll be wondering about us what about us he grumbled she kept her voice light and nonchalant trying hard to suppress her smile they'll be wondering if their daddy will ever get the courage to take take the plunge his eyes flew open wide this hasn't got a dad blasted thing to do with courage it's about timing you want a perfect proposal that takes time to pull together uhhuh she drawled a knowing smile tipping her lips you keep telling yourself that several times throughout the past month when Knox had taken her to dinner she'd expected a proposal but it hadn't happened she was starting to get ansy and it didn't help that Zoe Jackson lemon and even Effie had been pestering her about it at this point birdie knew that she and Knox would get remarried while she was ready for Knox to step up to the plate she was no longer peeved with him mostly she just enjoyed razing him about it he pulled up to the ranch house and got out of the truck I'll be right back sounds good she sat back in her seat to relax he got to the door before holding up a finger and turning back around he trotted back to her door and opened it is everything okay yeah everything's good he gave her an apologetic smile would you mind coming in for a second you know the new bronze sculpture that Zoe made the one of the horses he nodded I put it on the mantle but I'm not sure if it looks good there can you give me your opinion sure she released her seat belt and he helped her out of the truck you know in the near future you'll be able to get Effie to give you decorating advice also good point he mused he placed his hand on the small of her back and led her inside birdie loved the protective feel of his hand she was surprised when KNX steered her toward the kitchen instead of the den what is this he only grinned in response her breath caught hand going over her chest when she saw the formal table setting on the back section of the long farm table it was complete with a white tablecloth wine glasses candles and a monstrous bouquet of red roses tears Rose in her eyes as she walked over chuckling softly at the bottle of sparkling cider in the silver bucket of ice she turned to face Knox hardly daring to Hope is this what I think it is his Azure eyes brimmed with a combination of joy and amusement as he held out his hands what can I say I'm taking the plunge laughter bubbled in her throat it's about time he stepped up to her and got down on one knee as he caught hold of her hands his jaw worked as he cleared his throat trying to contain his emotion birdie he began in a low urgent tone tears glistened in his eyes I wish there were enough words in the world to tell you how much I love you his voice quivered with intensity you are my everything will you marry me he flashed a boyish grin that turned her heart over in response again this time for Keeps no words had ever sounded sweeter to her ears yes birdie exclaimed tears filling her eyes as she pulled him to his feet and flung her arms around him pressing her lips to his an instant later she realized KNX was waving his arm then she heard the strumming of a guitar she turned to see cash striding into the kitchen laughter gurgled in her throat what is this Knox grinned the pre-concert a second later the rest of the family burst into the kitchen grandkids and all birdie laughed through her tears as she mopped her her eyes she gave Knox a soft nudge on the arm you got me I never expected this see Knox bragged I told you I'd make it right Joy percolated in her chest that you did she uttered softly all the kids and grandkids stepped up one by one to hug birdie and Knox birdie was surprised to see Effie amongst the group congratulations Effie said as she hugged birdie you deserve to be happy thank you birdie responded I'm so glad you're here we're glad she's here too Zoe asserted as she slipped an arm around Effie and pulled her close Effie's cheeks redened slightly but birdie could tell that Zoe's gesture meant the world to Effie Zoe shot Mason a snarky grin we're just glad to have a sibling younger than Mason now he can no longer claim special privileges for being the baby Mason's jaw dropped that was a cheap shot I don't claim special privileges you keep telling yourself that little brother ramsy hooted as Mason shot him a dark look Selma sniggered beside Mason not you to he bellowed as he caught her in a tight hug great proposal I knew you had it in you Jackson winked at Knox so did I lemon chimed in she gave Knox a meaningful look to forgive oneself is the most powerful gift of all Knox nodded as his Adams Apple slid up and down birdie could tell that he was fighting back his emotions she gave lemon a tender smile her and Jackson's meeting with the specialist had gone well they were hopeful that the specialist would discover why she kept miscarrying lemon had wisdom Beyond her years from all of the trauma that she'd been through birdie knew she would one day make a terrific mom Mason let out a low whistle as he went over to the table wow daddy I'm impressed you did it up big what's for dinner ramsy gave Mason a shove in the arm hold your horses no dinner yet Mr one kick Wonder it's time for The Grand Event Grand Event birdie asked looking around the group for an explanation a secret smile passed between Hartley and Ava birdie tipped her head what what's going on here she homed in on Noah and Piper but they only grinned daddy you better start talking cash drawled or mama's going to start spewing Steam from her ears everyone laughed even Milo and Madison Bird's hand went to her hip as a suspicious smile slipped over her lips what are you little stinkers up to she wagged a finger encompassing the group that goes for you older stinkers as well she said in in her motherly scolding tone KNX slipped his arm around her shoulders and pulled her close well we figured you figured Jackson corrected I figured Knox continued easily that since everyone's here we might as well tie the knot and make it official birdie could hardly believe her ears now she squeaked yep knock grinned from ear to ear where birdie had wanted this for so long if her heart could have broken free from her chest it would have done a thousand cartwheels leave it to Knox to catch her totally off guard she'd suspected something when he led her into the kitchen rather than the den but she'd never dreamt that he'd propose and marry her on the same day at the church knox's eyes twinkled with Adventure what do you say her head was spinning so fast it was hard to process everything now she knew how heartly must have felt when Ramsay sprung her wedding on her last minute she looked down at her clothes but I don't have a dress oh but you do an impish smile curved Harley's lips Ava and I did a little shopping earlier today she looked at lemon and Effie you even have a pair of designer pumps compliments of shade of lemon and hand selected by Effie from this fabulous Boutique that we know well everything's arranged Noah interjected right down to the pictures that Piper and I will take don't forget the fabulous cake and finger foods for the reception afterwards Zoe added trust me they're delicious Briggs cast Zoe a cheeky grin I may or may not have sampled a few Zoe raised an eyebrow more than a few she retorted Briggs chuckled loving getting a rise out of Zoe he looked at Milo and Madison well I might have had a little help guilt splashed over their faces as they ducked their heads slightly laughing KNX turned to face birdie Miss Romeo he asked grandly are you ready to do this thing they call marriage Bird's chest expanded with so much love that she could hardly contain it moisture blurred her eyes as she looked at the Larger than Life man she knew so well she'd followed Knox down many a rocky road through sunshine and Rain God willing they'd have many more roads to travel down yet he was hers and she was his always and forever it was about time they made it official an exuberant smile crossed her lips I've never been more ready for anything in my life let's do it lemon looked at Jackson in Amusement there you have it Miss birdie Romeo will now become Mrs birdie Romeo yes ma'am Jackson quipped exactly how it should be Romeo's Till the End closing credits this has been one more chance Romeo family romance book 11 written by Jennifer Youngblood narrated by Lisa valdini copyright 2021 by Jennifer Youngblood All Rights Reserved no part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means including information storage and retrieval systems without written permission from the author except for the use of brief quotations in a book review