Read Online Taming Mad Max by Theresa Ragan - Free Book Online

on her by putting her in charge of his health. In a way, she held his future in her hands, since she could refuse to clear him as healthy, maybe even cause him to lose his job. But she knew she’d never do that...not unless his health was seriously at risk. Revenge wasn’t her style.
    And what about their daughter? Molly hadn’t asked about her father in years. If Molly knew Max was her father, and discovered Kari had kept that knowledge from her, she would be devastated. Keeping Max’s identity secret from her daughter hadn’t bothered her in years, since she felt as if she’d done her best to try and contact him. After receiving no response from Max, she had convinced herself she did all she could and left it at that.
    She certainly never expected to see Max face to face again.
    Kari climbed out of the jeep and gathered the groceries she picked up on the way to his house.
    After watching Max entertain the ladies last night, she wasn’t keen on seeing him this morning. But luck was on her side, she figured, when Max’s sister greeted her at the door.
    Breanne took one of the bags out of her hands. “Sorry about the scene with Joey yesterday. I really don’t know what’s gotten into him.”
    Kari followed Breanne to the kitchen. “Fatherhood is a big responsibility. I’m sure it will just take some time before he comes around.”
    “Joey wants me to consider giving the baby up for adoption. I could never do that.”
    “Do you have any idea why he might be so afraid?” Kari asked.
    “What do you mean?”
    “When it comes to the fears and expectations of new parenthood, men and women aren’t always on the same page. He’s probably afraid of what this baby will do to your relationship. He’s still in college, right?”
    Breanne nodded and set the bag of food on the granite counter. “He works during the day and takes classes at night.”
    “Maybe he’s worried about money. How will he provide for the baby and for you? Or maybe he’s wondering if he’ll have time for himself after the baby is born? If he hasn’t been around a lot of small children or babies, he might be wondering how he’s going to help. Babies are messy and they cry a lot.”
    Kari stopped when she saw the frown creasing Breanne’s forehead. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you. I was just trying to guess what might be going through Joey’s head.”
    “I never thought about all of that stuff before,” Breanne admitted. “Since I first learned I was pregnant, my focus has been on holding the baby in my arms. But you’re right, it makes sense that he might be scared.”
    Kari smiled. “I’ll bring you the names of a few good counselors who might be able to help. Communication between the two of you, getting all your worries and fears out on the table, would definitely be a great start.” She should practice what she preached, she thought.
    “Thanks. I appreciate your help.”
    Kari’s attention shifted toward the window where she could see Max in the pool, bronzed muscles rippling through the clear blue water.
    “He’s always been a great athlete,” Breanne said without prompt. “Swimming, water polo, and, of course, football.”
    Kari already knew where Molly got her athleticism. Her daughter excelled as a dancer, a basketball player, and a swimmer.
    “Do you think you’ll be able to help Max?” Breanne asked.
    “Dr. Stone is still running tests,” Kari said. “He’ll make the final decision about Max’s future in the NFL, but healthy eating and a good exercise program is a good start.”
    “I can’t imagine life without him. Since our father’s death, Max has been the backbone of our family. Financially, he’s helped our entire family, but more than that, he’s always been a positive role model for me and my sisters.”
    Breanne took a seat on a stool while Kari unloaded the groceries onto the center island.
    Kari put the blackberries, artichokes, and brussels sprouts in the refrigerator. “When did