Read Online No Breaking My Heart by Kate Angell - Free Book Online Page A

whole days.” Clearly, it sounded like forever to Danny. He turned to Halo. “Can Mommy and Alyn come, too?”
    â€œOnly one of us,” Alyn was quick to say. “Mom should chaperone.”
    â€œMe?” Surprise showed on Martha’s face. “I was thinking you, Alyn.”
    â€œYou go, Mom,” she insisted. “When was the last time you had a vacation?”
    Her mother looked thoughtful. “It’s been a few years.”
    â€œA lot of years,” Alyn reminded her. “Not since Danny was born.”
    Martha poured herself another cup of coffee. “I’m content at home. Truly, I am.”
    â€œYou’d make me happy if you went with Danny.” Alyn said, and meant it.
    Halo’s iPhone rang. Dun dun da-da da-da , the great white shark tone was realistic. Scary.
    â€œ Jaws ?” asked Danny.
    â€œNo, Jillian Mac-Cates,” Halo said. “She’s the team’s community liaison. Nice enough, when she’s not trying to take a bite out of me.”
    â€œDoes she bite hard?” From Danny.
    â€œHardest when I’m running late or not paying attention to her.”
    â€œThat happens how often?” Alyn wondered aloud, certain it was a regular occurrence.
    â€œOften enough.” Halo was truthful. He tapped the screen. “She has travel details. Hold on.” He dropped the chair back on four legs, rose, and took the call in the mirrored hallway.
    Alyn was sitting closest to the hall, and she could hear parts of his conversation.
    â€œBoy, age eight.” Pause, followed by a clearing of his throat. “Three instead of two.” Indistinguishable mumbling. “Give me a break.” Some male finagling. “An alternative. . .” Next, “I’ll take care of it.” His voice lowered even more. “I need you to do me a favor. . . .”
    He returned to the kitchen shortly thereafter. His expression was unreadable.
    Danny hopped off his chair, and met Halo by the refrigerator. Curiosity and anticipation had him bouncing on his toes. “My mommy or my sister? Who gets to go?” he rushed to ask. “When do we leave? Are we flying? I’ve never been on an airplane.”
    Alyn sat very still. If truth be told, she would’ve loved to make the trip. However, her mother was a priority. She was still grieving her husband’s death. She would for a long time to come. Alyn hoped the sunshine would lift her spirits. No one deserved it more.
    She glanced at Halo, who was eyeing her. Or evaluating her, she thought. His brow was creased and his lips were pursed. She had no idea why. He went on to pinch the bridge of his nose with his thumb and forefinger, then rub the back of his neck before saying, “All three of you can come to spring training.”
    Danny whooped, pumped his good arm.
    Grateful, Martha’s eyes watered; her smile was soft.
    Alyn contemplated his decision. When they’d spoken privately in the living room, Halo had indicated Danny and a chaperone would travel to Florida. Two people only. Yet now the entire family was headed south. How had he managed that?
    He hadn’t taken her dog into account. “I can’t leave Quigley,” she said.
    Danny jumped in with, “Cadbury and Merlin would have to come, too.”
    Halo looked uneasy. “They are . . . ?”
    â€œMy bunny and goldfish,” her brother was quick to say.
    One corner of Halo’s mouth tightened. Alyn figured he was getting in deeper than he’d expected with the trip. Family travel became a whole different ballgame with pets included. She cut him some slack. Gave him room to back out. “No worries. I’ll stay behind, feed Cads and Merlin.”
    Halo shook his head. “I want you with us,” ended their debate. He then took a moment and considered their options. “Airline won’t accept a bunny or fish. So . . .”
    â€œSo . . .” Danny echoed