Read Online New Beginnings by Charlotte Carter - Free Book Online

already fallen for both of the youngsters and was more than eager to step into the role of grandmother. If that was all right with Maureen, of course.
    Cam threaded his fingers through his hair. He hadn’t shaved yet, and gray whiskers roughened his cheeks. “Look at it this way: There aren’t any stores open today. Even if you wanted to, there’s nowhere you could buy the children an extra present.”
    “I suppose you’re right.” Puffing out her cheeks, she blew out a sigh. “Maybe I ought to put a few of Lindsay Belle’s presents away and give them to her another day. Then it wouldn’t look like she was getting so much.”
    Cam rolled his eyes up at the ceiling and shook his head. “Do whatever you want, luv. I’m going to shave and get ready for company.”
    Exasperated with her husband, Anabelle got down on her knees to rearrange the presents. She really should have gotten Maureen’s children more than two little gifts.
    Watching Evan and Maureen work through the crisis of the fire at the nursery, Anabelle had been convinced there was a wedding in their future. But so far, Evan hadn’t said much. He’d learned from his father to be closed mouthed about the things that counted. At least around her.
    By two o’clock, the family began to arrive. First Kirstie came in the door with a dish of cranberry relish and homemade muffins. A fancy gift bag hung over her wrist.
    “You look lovely, dear,” Anabelle said, giving Kirstie a kiss. Her daughter wore a bright blue knit top and a long black skirt with tiny blue floral print that matched the top.
    “I had to splurge for the holidays. There was a teachers’ party last weekend, and I wanted them to see me in something other than my teacher grungies.”
    Cam stepped into the living room. “Hey, how’s my best girl?”
    “Hi, Pop. You’re looking very Santa Clausy in your red shirt.”
    “Ho-ho-ho!” He lowered the pitch of his voice to that of a jolly old St. Nick and gave her a hug.
    A few minutes later, Anabelle saw Doug and Ainslee’s car pull up out front. Eager to get her hands on Lindsay Belle, and anticipating the sweet smell of baby powder and shampoo, she went to the door to let them in.
    Doug released Lindsay Belle from her car seat and placed her on her feet. “Go find Nana,” Doug instructed.
    Dressed in a bright red cape with matching leotards and cap, Lindsay Belle came running toward Anabelle. “
Nanananana!
” she squealed.
    Her heart overflowing with love, Anabelle bent down to scoop up the child. She kissed the fine auburn curls that peeked out from beneath the red cap. “Merry Christmas, Lindsay Belle. You look like a Christmas bell today.”
    In response, Lindsay Belle patted Anabelle’s cheek. “Nananana!”
    “Yes, sweetie. I’m your Nana.”
    Carrying their contributions for dinner as well as gifts for Anabelle and Cam, Ainslee and Doug paused long enough at the door to give Anabelle a hug and kiss before they all stepped inside. Anabelle closed the door behind them. The more her family filled up the house, the happier she was.
    Bouncing in Anabelle’s arms, Lindsay Belle pointed. “Goggie! Goggie! Me want goggie!”
    “Yes, a doggie. That’s Sarge. He’s a nice doggie.” Anabelle set Lindsay Belle down, and she toddled right up to Sarge and hugged him. Tall wagging, Sarge licked her face and the child giggled.
    “Oh, Sarge.” Ainslee laughed. “I guess there’s no way to stop him from licking her.”
    “I’m afraid not, dear,” Anabelle said. “Lindsay Belle is right at his nose level.”
    Doug added their presents to the pile under the tree. “I don’t think she minds getting licked. It must tickle the way she giggles.”
    Cam took orders for eggnog and sparkling apple cider, and Anabelle brought out a tray of appetizers she’d made earlier in the day. The fire burned brightly in the fireplace, the shiny ornaments on the tree reflected the lights, and wood smoke mixed with the scent of evergreens, making