Read Online Protecting Her Child by Debby Giusti - Free Book Online

escaped. Forced to act because of her adoptive father’s rage.
    Not that she could tell Pete what had happened that night. Not that she could tell anyone.
    That phase of her life was over. At least, she prayed it was.
    Meredith peered outside again, her eyes drawn to Pete. Gratitude swept over her.
    Savannah was far from Refuge Bay. The men would never search for her in such elegant surroundings.
    She glanced around the room, unaccustomed to so many comforts. Her fingers touched the thick terry cloth towel set Sheila had placed on the dresser. She smiled. Sometimes it was nice to be spoiled.
    Once Meredith was out of the shower and had changed into a comfortable pantsuit with an elastic waist that provided ample room for her growing baby, she gathered her personal items and returned them to her tote.
    Picking up her cell, she tapped in the mechanic’s number and left another message concerning her car.
    When the repairs were completed, Meredith would make a quick trip back to Refuge Bay to pick up her automobile. Surely the thugs would have given up their search for her by then.
    What did they want from her? To ensure that she wouldn’t go to the police? But she had nothing to tell them.
    She tucked the knife and her cell phone in her pocket and shoved her purse into her overnight bag, then zipped it shut.
    Meredith planned to stash her bag downstairs by the front door. If an opportunity arose, she could slip out of the house without having to run back upstairs to retrieve her things.
    A sense of optimism settled over her. Maybe it was the sunshine or the new buds bursting forth on the trees. Flowering Bradford pear trees, cherry blossoms and redbuds heralded spring and filled her with hope.
    That’s what Pete had provided. Hope that things would get better.
    Despite Ben’s murder. Despite the men who continued to surface. Despite a disease she may have inherited.
    Grabbing her bag, she walked downstairs, the smooth mahogany banister cool to her touch.
    She left her tote by the door, then wove her way through the perfectly decorated home until she found the open French doors that led to the well-manicured backyard.
    â€œI’m afraid I overslept,” she said, stepping into the sunlight.
    Pete looked up. A smile spread across his face, causing a warm glow of acceptance to swell within her. How long had it been since anyone had greeted her with such a sincere look of welcome?
    â€œI hope you slept well.” Sheila rose from her chair. “There’s juice and fresh fruit on the table. Sitnext to Pete, and I’ll bring out a plate of cold cuts and cheese, along with some French bread and condiments.” She reached for Pete’s cup. “Can I pour you a refill?”
    â€œThanks, Sheila, but I can get it. And don’t feel you need to feed us. Meredith and I can grab lunch at one of the local restaurants.”
    â€œDon’t be silly,” Sheila said. “In fact, why don’t you stay another night?”
    Brow raised, he looked at Meredith. “Do you need more time to rest?”
    â€œActually, I feel great.” She smiled at Sheila. “I deeply appreciate all you’ve done for us.”
    â€œNonsense, it’s nothing. Besides, I’m thrilled to be able to meet you at long last. You two chat while I get lunch ready.”
    Meredith poured juice and placed two slices of melon on a plate.
    Pete helped her with her chair, then waited as she bowed her head and offered thanks. At the conclusion of the prayer, she raised her eyes to find him staring at her.
    Her cheeks warmed, and she reached for her glass of orange juice to cover the unexpected flip-flop of her heart.
    Pete sat back in his chair. “You look like you got a good night’s sleep.”
    â€œThat’s because I did. You and Sheila have been so kind.”
    â€œI think Sheila enjoys having someone in the house. If we take her up on another night, we could tour the city and the