Read Online Texas Heat by Fern Michaels - Free Book Online Page A

Sunbridge!” This time the responses were more subdued. Only Riley beamed from ear to ear, and it was his echoing toast that could be clearly heard.
    In deference to the huge Texas-style barbecue that would be offered later that evening when the other guests arrived, Maggie’s luncheon menu was purposely light: salad in aspic, which she noticed the men refused, baked lemon sole fillets, and asparagus tips. For the heartier appetite, a rich fish chowder was served, complete with thick slices of French bread and crumbled bacon. And, for dessert, coffee, pie and ice cream.
    â€œStill watching your weight, Susan?” Maggie asked as she dug into her apple pie.
    â€œIn a way. At our age it’s difficult to take it off. Besides, I’m looking forward to those barbecued ribs.”
    Jerome, mining his way through a second piece of pie with double ice cream, glanced at his wife. “I don’t want you to overdo tonight. Remember your diet.” Then, looking around at the others, he said, “Susan has to be careful. It’s critically important how she looks onstage. She’s been admired for her angelic, ethereal appearance when she sits before the piano. One bulge and it’s all ruined.”
    â€œSusan has always been a disciplined person,” Billie said. “I quite admire you, darling. And as for your figure, you have nothing to worry about. Whatever do you do when you want to binge? What’s your secret?”
    â€œI look at Jerome, Mam,” Susan said coolly. An uneasy silence shrouded the table.
    â€œI think you need a good, long rest, Susan,” said Amelia. “You’re looking a bit peaked,” she added bluntly.
    â€œThere’s nothing wrong with Susan,” Jerome said sharply. “It was the trip, coming off the tour and getting ready for the next one. Susan is fine.”
    Thad whispered to Billie, “Methinks he doth protest too much. Follow your instincts, darling. She’s your daughter.”
    â€œI’ll talk with her later, Thad. She looks miserable enough now; I don’t want to add to it.”
    There was a lump growing in Susan’s throat. All her family was here, and if there was ever a time to make an announcement, this was it. Damn Jerome and his career. Damn the tour and damn the critics. First she looked at Amelia, and then at Billie, who nodded slightly to show she understood. Susan had something to say, and this was as good a time as any to say it.
    The knife was in Susan’s hand before she could think, and she was tapping lightly on her water glass. “Listen, everybody, I have an announcement.” She carefully avoided looking at her husband.
    â€œSusan! We’ve discussed this,” Jerome hissed at her across the table. “Not now, for God’s sake!”
    â€œNow!” she said. “Everybody...” She took a deep breath. “Everybody, I’m pregnant! Isn’t it wonderful?”
    Maggie was off her chair and took her sister into her embrace. “Suse! How wonderful! I’m so happy for you! This calls for another toast!”
    â€œThere hasn’t been a baby in the family since Coleman.” Billie laughed. “When is this wonderful new addition to arrive?”
    â€œIn time for my birthday. February.” Susan was brightening before Billie’s eyes. Already there was more color in her cheeks, and her eyes were glowing.
    â€œThat’s if all goes well,” Jerome said.
    â€œWhy shouldn’t it?” Amelia asked. “Our Susan’s a strong, healthy woman. Or is there something you’re not telling us, Jerome?”
    He was saved from having to reply by Sawyer, who had left her place at the table and stood behind Susan’s chair. “If you’re in the market for a godmother, I volunteer. How lucky you are, Susan! So very lucky.” She squeezed Susan in a hug.
    Rand’s pulses were pounding. The naked want on Sawyer’s face