Read Online A Valentine for Kayla by Kimberly Rose Johnson - Free Book Online Page A

Estelle’s true character with her, but it really didn’t matter, at least not right now. Estelle would be here only a short time—not nearly enough time to snare his mother in her web of deceit and lies.
    Mom held a small casserole dish in one hand. “Dinner is ready.” She pointed to the table, which was set for two.
    Derek quickly set another place and helped get the food on the table. “Estelle needs a place to stay for a few nights. Do you mind if she sleeps in the guestroom? I will move back into the guesthouse.” Since his mom’s stroke he felt more comfortable being under the same roof, but as long as Estelle was here…
    â€œShe’s welcome to stay…as long as…she’d like.”
    Derek stifled a groan and offered a blessing for the food, then passed the meat loaf to Estelle.
    â€œThanks.” She cut a piece in half and placed it on her plate.
    â€œWhat brings…you here, Estelle?” Mom asked.
    â€œYour son. I want him to come back to LA with me.”
    Mom nodded but didn’t respond. She’d always excelled at hiding her thoughts when she wanted to.
    What was he going to do? He knew his ex-girlfriend well enough to know she meant it when she said she wouldn’t leave without him, but there was no way that would happen. His life was here—at least for now. His mother needed him. Plus he’d said he’d help Kayla with her float, and he intended to keep his word. That is, if she’d let him. After the look of disappointment he’d seen on her face as she ran away, he had doubts.

Chapter 7
    K ayla sat on the couch and stared at the television. A photo of Estelle Rogers and Derek played on the screen. The hosts declared the duo had been spotted together and speculated they were an item once again.
    She pushed the power button.
    Her mom walked into the room holding a plate. “I made dinner. Better grab some while it’s hot.”
    â€œThanks, but I’m not hungry.”
    â€œI don’t suppose your loss of appetite has anything to do with what happened outside Java World this evening?”
    Her gaze shot to her mother’s. “You know about Derek?”
    Mom nodded. “I think the whole town is talking about it. Those photographers were asking all sorts of questions about Derek after he drove off with the movie star. One even went so far as to offer money to anyone who would give him the address of where Derek is staying. But no one would tell him.” She smiled smugly. “Helen doesn’t need all that craziness at her house. Poor woman has had enough trouble of late. I still can’t believe she had a stroke.”
    Her mom’s words rang true. Helen absolutely couldn’t deal with all the attention that her son’s fame could bring to her doorstep. She studied her mother’s serene face. She wanted that kind of contentment, but turmoil and anger ran rampant through Kayla. “How could I have been so naive?”
    â€œWhat do you mean?”
    â€œI knew Derek looked like DJ Parker, yet I talked myself out of believing there was a connection. I never imagined a famous singer would live here. I feel so stupid.” She rested her chin on her tucked knees. “Estelle and Derek are probably having a good laugh at my expense right now.” Her stomach knotted even tighter.
    â€œI love you with all my heart, Kayla, but the world does not revolve around you. Derek seemed like a very nice man to me, and I think it’s safe to say he is not laughing at your expense. Have you asked him about it?”
    Her mom’s words stung. “No, and I don’t plan to, either.” Mom was supposed to be on her side. Why was she defending Derek?
    â€œYou may want to reconsider. I know his fame took you by surprise, honey, but I’ve never seen you take to a man like you did him. I think the two of you have a connection. If I were you, I wouldn’t toss that away so