Read Online Breaking the Rules by Melinda Dozier - Free Book Online Page A

every line as if she had just made it up. Because when she actually said anything spontaneously, this is what happened. “I mean … ”
    Scott placed his cards down. “Yep. I like her already.”
    Kelly saved her then. “Let me show you the nursery.” She pulled Hope by the hand and dragged her to the end of the house.
    When they got to the baby’s room, Kelly stopped in front of her. “What the hell was that all about?”
    Hope took a deep breath and raised her face to the ceiling. “I know.” She slumped into the rocking chair next to her. “God, I’m such a dork.”
    â€œHoney, you’ve got it bad for Colin.” Kelly kneeled in front of her. “I had no idea.”
    â€œI already told him we can’t date.” When Kelly raised her eyebrows, she added, “He’s Jason’s dad. I’m Jason’s principal. Don’t you see anything wrong with that?”
    â€œWell, it’s unfortunate, but there has to be a way around it. We’ll go fix up a margarita, sit on the back porch, away from the source of this predicament, and figure out a plan.”
    Hope grabbed her friend’s hand. “Thanks. You know I love you, right?” She stood up and looked around. “Now let me see this nursery.”
    â€œHere’s the new quilt. I got it in baby green so it would work with either a boy or a girl.”
    Hope placed her hand on the soft fabric and caressed the intricate Winnie-the-Pooh designs. “It’s lovely, Kelly.” She faced her friend. “Any word from the adoption agency?”
    â€œStill waiting.” Kelly picked up the big teddy bear in the crib. “The agency is still having trouble with the Guatemalan ministry. It’s so frustrating, Hope. There are so many children there without homes, parents, even shoes to wear. Tim and I have been waiting for five months now.”
    â€œIt’ll happen soon. Aren’t you on top of the list?” Hope rubbed her friend’s arm.
    â€œWe’re on a list. But there’s a big list. The State Department has put a hold on all adoptions to Guatemala because of fraudulent cases. But those poor kids, you know?”
    Hope pulled her friend in for a hug. “Soon, Kelly. Have faith.” When Kelly pulled back, Hope smiled. “I love the nursery. It’s beautiful. What a lucky baby.”
    â€œSometimes I catch Tim in here at night, just staring at different things — the mobile or the diapers. God, I wish I could have his baby.”
    â€œHey now, you will have a baby. You just need patience. And you’ll be great parents.”
    After looking around the room with a big sigh, Kelly said, “Let’s go have those margaritas.”
    â€œI really need one.” Hope followed Kelly out to the lion’s den.
    â€¢ • •
    â€œWho’s in?” Colin said as he shuffled the cards. After Hope left the room, he couldn’t stop smiling. She was a nervous wreck when she walked in. In fact, it was adorable, because he knew she got nervous because of him. Scott and Tim kept poking fun at him, but he hadn’t really done anything. He only said hello. He’d like to talk more to her, if she would come out of that damn room in the back. He looked at his watch. How long did it take to see a new comforter?
    As if on cue, the ladies returned. Colin looked up and smiled at Hope. She seemed more comfortable, and smiled back at him.
    â€œThere’s my wife.” Tim pulled Kelly to his side. “How about making those famous nachos of yours, babe?”
    â€œOh, no, you didn’t.” She pointed her finger at her husband.
    â€œI told the guys about them. You gotta make them.” He slapped her butt.
    â€œOw! Yes, boss.” She looked at Hope. “Sorry, Hope, it’ll only take a minute.” She made her way to the kitchen, which sat openly to the side of the dining area.
    Hope watched