One Week in Your Arms: Lafayette Falls, #0

Chapter 1

He had been born down on his luck. A tiny baby, born too early. Unwanted, unnamed, and unloved until he’d been handed off to Dr. Aaron Kendall in the emergency department, and his luck changed. . .

You’re already a lady killer. All the nurses are in love with you, and me, too, Aaron said to the baby, safely enclosed in a lifesaving incubator. We were meant to be father and son.

Until ten days ago, Aaron had never considered becoming a single parent. But that changed when he walked into a small ER exam room where a young woman had given birth to a premature baby. She was in her early twenties, but her face showed no signs of youth.

A vagrant, she was with a friend, and she refused to stay at the hospital. I don’t wanna see it. I never wanted it, and I know there’s some kind of law where you can leave it at a hospital, and the cops won’t hassle you, right? she asked. I don’t have no family, and I don’t know who the daddy is. Can’t you find it a home?

I can give him a home. Aaron’s reply came straight from somewhere deep within his heart, setting him on an irreversible course of action.

That night, the baby, dubbed Baby John Doe by the nursing staff, became his second chance at being a dad. Now, Aaron was happier than he had been in four years.

Hello? The pull-around curtain that provided privacy to the NICU pod fluttered as Dr. Marla Grant held it aside and smiled. It’s the godparents.

Hey, guys. Aaron greeted two of his closest friends and colleagues, Marla and cardiologist Brett Harris. He had asked them to be John’s godparents, and they were both delighted to accept the honor.

Tell your husband I owe him big time, Aaron told Marla. The Lafayette Falls Medical Center now had a special care nursery and three NICU pods thanks to Marla and her billionaire husband, Carson. While Marla and Carson were expecting their son, there had been an issue with the baby not gaining weight. Carson, who wanted his son to get the proper treatment in the local hospital if need be, had paid for NICU pods to be added to the nursery.

I had no idea this nursery would become a personal blessing until the night John was born, Aaron said. The baby had been born almost six weeks premature, undernourished, and struggling to survive. Having specialized NICU equipment on hand allowed Aaron to save John’s life.

We heard you’d taken him off the ventilator. Brett looked through the transparent walls of the incubator at the baby. Various sensors were attached to John’s tiny body, and the monitors flanking the incubator displayed his vital signs.

Removed the vent two days ago and the CPAP this morning, Aaron answered. So far, he’s doing well on oxygen, and his lungs are continuing to grow stronger.

Look at that hair. He is so cute. Marla admired John’s wisps of dark hair. How much does he weigh now?

Three pounds and 4 ounces. He’s gaining steadily. Weight gain was one of the most important triumphs for preemies. But his X-ray this morning shows he still has left lower lobe pneumonia, and yesterday, he had an elevated white count.

He admitted to his friends the fear he carried in his heart. I worry about him all the time.

Don’t worry, Brett said. He couldn’t be in better hands than yours.

Yeah, Marla agreed. I can’t wait to see John and Brody on the T-ball field.

Aaron smiled. How’s Brody? he asked about Marla’s eight-month-old son. How does he like baby food?

He’s crazy about sweet potatoes. Carson was feeding him sweet potatoes, and he couldn’t get the spoon in Brody’s mouth fast enough this morning.

Aaron absently wondered what John’s favorite food would be. There were so many adventures ahead. He glanced at Brett. Now that Marla and I both have a baby, it’s your turn, Hot Rod. You and Natalie need some sleepless nights.

Not yet. We’ve put that on hold. Since he and Natalie had married last May, they were busy with their careers. The chief of cardiology position had added more work to his schedule, and Natalie’s photography studio kept her busy. But if you ever need a babysitter, we can use the practice.

Marla said, We’re here for you anytime, Aaron.

Thanks. He felt a deep sense of appreciation for the support his friends had shown him.

As they were leaving, Brett hesitated beside the curtain. He gave Aaron a mischievous grin. I heard there’s a wild party planned at your house tonight. You might wanna practice CPR before you go home.

True.

Aaron turned to John, who slept peacefully. Your grandpa is hosting a geriatric bachelor party. Ages seventy plus. What a way to spend a Friday night.

Three hours later, Aaron stood on the large redwood deck that spanned the back of his house. The summer breeze carried the scent of freshly cut grass.

He laughed as he watched his father, Frank, and Frank’s buddy, Ralph, using an air pump to inflate blow-up dolls for the party.

Here’s the perfect girlfriend. Frank handed Aaron a doll. Seventy-three-year-old Frank, a former police chief from North Carolina, had an ample waistline and the same short haircut he’d worn since he was a Marine fifty years ago.

The two of them posed for a selfie. With the afternoon sunlight warming the deck on a beautiful June day, Aaron, dressed in an Atlanta Braves jersey and navy shorts, stood beside his father. At 6 foot 2, Aaron was taller than Frank, and he stooped slightly so his face would be in the selfie alongside his dad’s and the blow-up doll.

Aaron had inherited his mother’s striking features, including her Irish ancestors’ vivid blue eyes and black hair. Frank often said that whenever he looked at Aaron, he was reminded of his beloved Nancy, whose memory lived on in their son’s eyes and his smile.

This is gonna be the best bachelor party ever! Ralph said as he pumped air into the last doll.

Aaron was happy that his widowed father was doing well, and he didn’t regret letting Frank move in with him. His spacious house was big enough for the two of them and the baby.

He had bought the five-bedroom country home, believing it would be the perfect place to raise a family. The charming log and fieldstone house came with a fantastic tree house nestled in the branches of a hundred-year-old oak tree. Plus, there was a small basketball court in the backyard. He envisioned playing ball with his kids there someday.

Sadly, the house became a large, lonely dwelling after his marriage fell apart.

Despite that, he held onto it because he needed a place to live, and there were aspects of the property that he loved. Located a few miles from downtown Lafayette Falls, the house sat on a three-acre lot bordered by tall hardwoods, cedars, and pines. Aaron cherished how each season brought a unique beauty to the woodlands.

Thanks to his father, the lawn was perfection. Frank loved doing yard work and gardening. He meticulously mowed the lawn weekly and attended to his flowers and vegetable gardens. The property was a testament to Frank’s green thumb.

After tonight, things have to change. Leaning against the deck railing, Aaron gave his father a pointed look. We’ve got to get it together, Dad, before I bring the baby home from the hospital. The monthly cleaning service isn’t enough. We have to do more.

The lawn might be pristine, but inside, the house was the opposite. The place reflected the living habits of two men who were definitely not housekeepers.

We have to make an effort to get the dishes in the dishwasher and take out the trash each day. We can’t leave stuff lying around everywhere, Aaron said. I talked to Maury yesterday.

Aaron referred to his attorney, who was handling the adoption. The home study provider will be here next month for the assessment. This place has got to be spotless. Inside and out.

I know somebody you could get to do a home inspection, Ralph said.

It’s not a home inspection. It’s a home study required by the state. Aaron explained that the home study was an imperative part of the adoption process, and it would include an evaluation of his house being a safe and appropriate environment for a baby. Also, he would be evaluated to determine whether he would be a suitable parent who could care for the child, both emotionally and financially.

Everything had to be perfect.

Frank and Ralph gathered up the blow-up dolls and headed indoors.

An old black pickup truck veered off the driveway, drove across the lawn, and wheeled to a stop beside the deck.

TGIF! The life of the party has arrived, Stevie shouted out the truck window. His broad smile created dimples. He’d been considered cute all his life, and he’d gotten away with murder because of it. Wearing a ball cap turned backward, a sleeveless hoodie, denim shorts, and sandals, Stevie bailed out of the truck. He waved a porn DVD in the air. Girls Gone Wild!

At twenty-one, Stevie had never gotten beyond his sophomore year at college. He insisted he wasn’t college material, which was true.

Man, I’ll owe you forever. I’ve found my calling. When Stevie had shown up in Lafayette Falls looking for a job, Aaron talked to Brett about Stevie working at the Thunderbird Bar and Grill. Brett owned a major stake in the Thunderbird and helped Stevie get a bartending job, which suited his outgoing personality. He’d held the job for almost fifteen months. A record for him. I was born to be a bartender. I’m a natural at mixing drinks and giving advice.

Giving advice. Aaron grinned at the thought. As long as you love your work, that’s the most important thing.

Yeah. Stevie cleared his throat. I need a favor.

Stevie had messaged him earlier about wanting to talk. Over time, Aaron had done a lot of favors for Stevie, who seemed like a kid brother to him. What kind of favor?

I need to crash here for a few weeks until I find a place. Allie dumped me, Stevie answered with a shrug. Misunderstanding. You know how chicks are. My stuff’s in my truck.

Aaron didn’t comment or ask about the misunderstanding because, with Stevie, it was best not to know. Come to think of it, I could use some help around the house.

Sure thing, bro. Whatever you need, he said as he followed Aaron indoors.

He and Aaron stepped into the centerpiece of the house, a three-hundred-square-foot den. Golden oak beams crisscrossed the lofty ceiling, and plate-glass windows offered a breathtaking view of the woodlands bordering the backyard. The room featured a grand stone fireplace, rustic brass chandeliers, and hardwood flooring.

Unfortunately, mismatched furniture and a worn area rug undermined the room’s grandeur. Shortly after Aaron had purchased the house, his divorce happened. He’d never bought new furniture except for a state-of-the-art eighty-inch television and a top-notch sound system, much to Frank’s delight—ideal for enjoying sports on ESPN. The impressive setup now hung above a cluttered entertainment center, awaiting an upgrade, along with most of the stuff in the house.

Stevie handed the porn DVD to Ralph. Wait until you see this on that screen, dude.

Aaron kicked a sneaker out of his way. The sneaker landed in a pile of newspapers beside Frank’s recliner.

I’ve got a lot of work to do. He told Stevie about the upcoming home study in a few weeks. The home study has to be completed before a judge will sign off on the adoption. I need you to help me get this place ready.

He stressed the significance of the home study, which required an inspection from a child welfare rep. I need rooms painted and all the junk and the old furniture cleared out. I’m buying new furniture and making the house a safe space for a baby. If the house doesn’t pass the assessment, the adoption is off.

Stevie grinned. Don’t worry. I’ve gotcha covered. In a rare moment of contemplation, he said, I understand how much the baby means to you, and I’m happy for you. I promise I’m awesome with a mop or a paintbrush.

Hey, guys, we’ve got plenty of pizzas and beer, Ralph said as partygoers arrived.

Larry Nash, the groom-to-be, was escorted into the den by retired fire chief Gerald Shelby, who announced, Cameron messaged me. He’s on his way with Dad.

The Over-the-Hill bachelor party began with toasts to Larry, and Aaron hoped he wouldn’t have to perform CPR on any of his father’s guests. He got a fresh beer, along with a piece of loaded deep-dish pizza, and sat on an end table, eating pizza as the two girls in the porn movie got it on, and the guests relived their teenage years.

Outside, Stevie reached into the back of his pickup for his duffel bag full of clothes. He didn’t bother with the duffel bag when he saw a shiny red Jaguar sports coupe pull into the driveway. His jaw dropped. Talk about one fine car! Whoa!

He headed down the drive to get a better look at the sleek, low-slung Jag. Just looking at it can give you an orgasm. He took a photo of the car with his phone. The Jag probably belonged to one of Aaron’s doctor buddies. The driver’s side door opened, and Stevie straightened as a dazzling brunette emerged.

A gleaming silver clasp fastened her long, dark hair at the nape of her neck. Arched brows and long lashes accented her deep green eyes. A navy linen jacket, a pearl gray top, and a slim skirt created her stylish ensemble. A cluster of diamonds was perched on her ring finger. Polished to perfection, she seemed poised for a corporate boardroom meeting rather than the festivities of a bachelor party.

She glanced around the place, taking in the house and the well-kept lawn.

Stevie was no expert on people, but she didn’t look like a stripper to him. Way too high-class for this party. Hi there, he spoke to her, and she gave him one of those uncertain smiles women use for guys they don’t know.

If you put her in a pair of short shorts and a bikini top, she’d be smoking hot. Almost as hot as the red Jag she’s driving.

She gave him a troubled look. Are you Doctor Kendall?

Me? No. Stevie held up his palms. No way. Taking care of sick babies ain’t my thing.

Oh. She nodded coolly. But this is his residence, correct?

Yeah. Stevie’s mind toyed with possibilities.

Is Doctor Kendall or his wife home?

Stevie blinked. Aaron’s here, but there’s no wife. His old lady dumped him a few years ago.

No wife? the brunette repeated, her bewildered expression deepening. He’s not married? she asked in disbelief.

Divorced. For a while now. Stevie considered the brunette was above his pay grade, but Aaron had status. Aaron is as available as they come. So this could be your lucky day. Nothing like helping a bro out.

She squared her shoulders. I’m not here to get lucky. Suddenly, she was all about the attitude. I need to speak to Doctor Kendall regarding the baby he’s planning to adopt.

Stevie thought about the conversation he and Aaron had about the baby and the adoption. He recalled what Aaron had told him about a welfare inspection, how the house had to be spotless, and everything had to be perfect. He studied the frowning brunette, who was dressed like a somebody with a totally important job title.

Oh, shit! Stevie cleared his throat. Just a minute. I’ll be right back. Uh, wait here. He broke into a run toward the rear deck.

Aaron, you are so screwed, bro!

Chapter 2

In the den, Aaron sat in an armchair, eating his third slice of pizza. Ralph had propped a blow-up doll beside him because he needed company.

Frank and Larry, the guest of honor, sang along with Three Dog Night on Mama Told Me Not to Come while the rest watched the action on the TV screen. The sound system speakers broadcast a symphony of moans and groans.

Stevie skidded into the den. Turn off the TV! Hide the dolls! he cried. The welfare lady is here! I thought she might be a stripper, but she’s not!

Frank glanced at Aaron. What the hell is he talking about?

Aaron had no idea about Stevie. He’d always been unpredictable, to say the least. You want some pizza? It’s good.

The doorbell rang, and Gerald said, That must be Cameron and Dad. I’ll get it.

Stevie kept on. Aaron, the welfare lady’s here! I promise. Ralph, turn off the TV! The request was met with groans of protest.

The welfare lady? Aaron had no idea what Stevie meant.

I don’t know where the remote is, and it’s just getting good. Ralph hunted in the crack between the sofa cushions for the missing remote.

Stevie told Aaron, She said she was here to meet with you about adopting the baby. She is like all business. No smiling or flirting. No personality. And that’s sad because she’s driving a hot car, and she has potential, bro.

You’re not making any sense. The home study isn’t until next month, Aaron reassured his hysterical cousin as he stood. He set his empty beer bottle on the table.

Frank tossed a blow-up doll at them, and Aaron caught it. He held it by its ankles while Stevie shook his head.

Dammit, I’m telling you, bro, she’s here early. Like now, and you are screwed!

Red-faced Gerald Shelby reappeared, followed by a classy brunette with a willowy figure clad in an elegant navy linen suit.

Her fingers were pressed against the bottom of her nose, and her deep green eyes widened in horror as she took in the scene: a pool table in the dining area, a Playboy calendar on the wall, and men with blow-up dolls clustered around a television displaying high-definition porn. The room fell silent. Every man froze in place, except for Ralph, who scrambled for the remote control and quickly shut off the TV.

Miss Montgomery is here to see Doctor Kendall about the baby in the hospital, Gerald announced stiffly as if he’d suddenly become a British butler.

Every eye in the room was directed at Aaron.

Stevie was right. I’m so screwed.

He shoved the blow-up doll into Stevie’s arms and straightened his spine. The stunning brunette looked him squarely in the face. Her humorless expression gave weight to Stevie’s description of her. Another adjective, seductive, raced through Aaron’s mind as her mouth drew into an unhappy pout. Hello, he managed to say.

I’m assuming you are Doctor Kendall, she said in a no-nonsense tone. He nodded, and she glanced at the stunned older men staring at her. Let’s step outside.

Considering the circumstances, going outside was an excellent idea.

This way. He opened one of the French doors that led onto the deck. As she walked past him, he noticed she was wearing a subtle, enticing fragrance, and she had shapely legs. He was no expert on women’s clothes, but he would bet her well-fitting suit and heels were designer brands. Stevie was right about her. She had plenty of potential.

Outside on the deck, he gathered his wits and appreciated his father’s yard work. At least the setting was fragrant and idyllic.

He introduced himself. I’m Doctor Aaron Kendall. I apologize for the craziness this afternoon and what was happening inside. I’m sorry about that, he added graciously. My dad is hosting a bachelor party tonight for his friend, and you know how that is.

No, not really, she answered, her frown reflecting her disapproval of the situation.

He needed to do damage control fast. I’m very sorry I wasn’t prepared for your visit. My attorney may have gotten the appointment time wrong because I didn’t expect you until next month. I’m not ready to have the home study done today. I have a list of improvements I plan to make inside the house during the next few weeks. I don’t even have the nursery set up yet.

She let out a pent-up breath like someone who was troubled, miserable, and disgusted. Then she pressed her hand to her lips as if she might throw up or cry.

Was the house that bad? Again, I’m sorry, he insisted. About the bachelor party and all—but I wasn’t expecting the home study to be done today. I had no idea it would be a surprise visit. Nor that it would be this soon. Let’s reschedule for next week or whenever it’s convenient for you.

He would have to work night and day, but he could get the house ready, plus the nursery and the nanny. Please. For John, he would beg. I’ll do whatever is necessary. I can work around your schedule. Whatever you want me to do, I’ll do.

She blinked, looking a bit sympathetic and bewildered.

She did have a soft spot, after all. He ran with it. I promise you won’t know this place when you see it again. It’ll be totally refurbished and spotless. The nursery will be amazing. And I do plan to hire a nanny before I bring the baby home, he added quickly, hoping that would score a few points.

A sigh eluded her heart-shaped lips, which he considered perfect for kissing. She wasn’t frowning any longer, and he took that as a positive sign. He noticed her glance at the sprawling tree house built on tall wooden piers that lifted it into the branches of a massive oak tree.

Some people call it a tree fort. He tried to establish a friendly rapport. It was here when I bought the place. As you can see, the lawn is huge. This is a three-acre lot. I plan to add a playground and, eventually, a pool.

She turned to him, and a little of her haughty attitude had disappeared. He couldn’t deny he found her way too attractive. Still, because of the circumstances, he would keep that to himself. No crossing lines with her.

What about next week? Next Friday? He paused, and she didn’t reply. Is that satisfactory?

She turned away as if to weigh his words. He remained muted. He wondered what her smile would look like. Her shiny dark hair, almond-shaped green eyes, and creamy complexion were a potent combination. For him, she checked a lot of boxes. He stared at the deck floor and shut down those thoughts. There was too much at stake.

Finally, she spoke, None of this is satisfactory, Doctor Kendall.

An ache filled