Is There A Husband In The House?

By Lynn Miller

Women to Watch

Babies and Bachelors and Marriage, oh my!

What was a self–respecting single woman with a baby on the way to do? For small–town mom–to–be Dinah Lane, marriage seemed like the perfect solution. Then she started dating .

Bachelor #1: Clean–cut, reliable, but oh, so dull .

Bachelor #2: Okay if you like cavemen .

Bachelor #3: Next!

Then there was Will Dennison, the brawny hunk she'd hired to build her baby's nursery. Not that the sexy drifter had popped the question. But if Will didn't stop sending her heated looks over his workbench, she was going to make him an offer no red–blooded bachelor could refuse!

For a humorous very nineties look at love, exciting new talent Lynn Miller is one of our Women to Watch

• Language: English
• Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Australia
• Release date: Jul 1, 2012
• ISBN: 9781460876084

Book preview

1

Dinah Lane was just tidying up her already neat desktop when her stomach clenched convulsively.

She threw down the pages she’d been sorting and rose quickly from her desk. Dinah walked briskly across her spotless office, through the hushed quiet of the small-town bank to the employee’s rest room, where she checked to be certain she was alone, then promptly leaned over a commode and threw up. After rinsing her mouth, Dinah automatically glanced at her watch—3:10 on the dot.

"Why the hell do they call this morning sickness," she muttered.

The same scenario had happened every afternoon at the same time for the past week. As she had each day, Dinah realigned the neat bow at her neckline and adjusted the jacket of her conservative business suit before extracting a tissue from her pocket and methodically blotting her forehead and mouth. As she tossed the tissue into the wastebasket, the realization she’d tried to deny so far finally hit her.

Pregnant!

The truth slammed into her gut so suddenly she almost heaved again. She fought for control and grabbed the edge of the sink, her fingers turning white from her desperate attempt to keep herself upright.

Booties, bottles, baby—oh, my!

For a long moment, she studied the bare ring finger of her left hand before reluctantly meeting her own worried blue eyes in the mirror.

Dinah, you’re in big trouble here.

* * *

Dinah faced the nurse seated behind the cluttered desk at the Women’s Total Health Clinic. She clenched her hands in her lap as a practiced smile crept over the nurse’s face.

Well, you were right. You’re about ten weeks pregnant.

Dinah gulped. She’d been hoping the home pregnancy test was wrong. Her glance slid away to stare at the pale yellow walls for a moment, before reluctantly meeting the older woman’s eyes again. Are you sure it’s not just the flu?

The woman laughed sympathetically. I’m afraid not. Don’t worry though, it gets better. She reached into a drawer for a pad. Tearing off one sheet, she handed it to Dinah. This is a prescription for vitamins. I’ll give you some other information, too. Then we’ll see you next month.

Her mind whirling, Dinah slid the paper into her pocket, then turned to study the closed blinds shielding her from the outside world. How should she tell the baby’s father? Oh, by the way. now that you’re back in town and we started seeing each other again. Surprise, you’re going to be a dad! That was going to go over big. Responsibility wasn’t Jack’s strong suit, but he’d sworn he’d changed. Had he changed enough? What if he didn’t want the baby? What if he didn’t want her, now that she was pregnant?

Ms. Lane?

Dinah started and turned her head to regard the nurse. I’m not from Lexington. I’ll need to find a doctor near Maysville, Kentucky, unless… Dinah stumbled to a halt. He loved her. He’d told her so. He’d be happy about this, she was sure of it. Who wouldn’t want a baby? She closed her mind to the harsh voice that whispered, Your mother didn’t want you.

I can give you a list of doctors in that area who take referrals from this clinic if you’d like.

Uh, one more thing.

Sure.

Dinah took a deep breath. How long before anyone can tell?

The woman studied her. You’re so tiny you’ll probably show fast…probably three and a half months, or so. I’d be surprised if you could get to four without anyone noticing. Does the father know?

Not yet Gulping, Dinah stood to leave, suddenly feeling like a lost little girl.

The matronly woman rose and impulsively hugged her. Don’t worry It will all work out.

Dinah blinked, trying to clear her rapidly tearing eyes. I hope so. Her stomach turned over She tried to tell herself it was just morning sickness again, but—

Quick, where’s the bathroom? I think I’m going to throw up."

That weekend, Dinah sat on the front porch of her small home overlooking the Ohio River. She glanced at her friend Connie before resting her feet against the railing and studying the view. This whole thing’s so impossible.

Connie munched on a cookie as she considered that. "Well, I wouldn’t say impossible. No birth control method is foolproof, you know. Things happen. She swallowed And next thing you know— she clapped her hands —hello, mama!"

There was silence for a moment. Dinah’s breath caught as she considered the implication of Connie’s words. Mama. She folded her arms and studied the river again, exhaling, using the long breath to buy time before committing herself aloud to the decision she’d agonized over for the past few days. I should have known better. I get slammed every time I let my guard down and feel instead of think.

That’s what she’d done with Jack. He’d been her first and only love, her high-school sweetheart. He’d left home eight years ago, telling her he’d be back. She’d waited. He hadn’t come. Then a few months ago, he’d walked into her bank. Back for good, he’d said. Dinah had taken one look at his rakish good looks and devilmay-care smile and fallen in love all over again. She’d thought he’d felt the same.

What did Jack have to say?

He— Dinah was unable to continue for a moment. The pain of Jack’s rejection still stunned her.

You told him, didn’t you?

Dinah glanced at Connie’s worried expression. Oh, yes…I told him a few days ago. I blurted it out nght after he casually announced he’d gotten a new sales job and was leaving town the next day.

What about the baby?

Jack didn’t think he was cut out to be a father. He offered to send me some money each month, if I was determined to keep the baby. Or help pay if I wasn’t.

The bastard!

Yeah, but at least he was finally honest. Dinah shook her head. She tried to be fair, which she considered her stock-in-trade. Even when she wanted to throw a tantrum and slam-dunk everything in sight, she hid behind a reasonable facade. He’s just Jack, I guess. He’s not the type to settle down, not now.. maybe not ever. The mistake I made was thinking otherwise. If I hadn’t been blinded by old memories and emotions… Dinah glanced at her friend, knowing she would understand. I was like a senior in high school again, waiting for the quarterback in the backseat of his car Still amazed that he’d chosen me when he could have had anyone in school.

So that’s it? It’s over?

Dinah dropped her feet from the white spindles. No. I think it’s just beginning. Having someone else to tell was a bit of a relief, even though Connie probably wouldn’t approve of her final decision. Suddenly restless, she was unable to sit in the old Boston rocker any longer. She stood, turned and leaned back against the railing. Dinah sighed as she tucked her crisp camp shirt more firmly into her sharply pressed, plaid walking shorts. I considered adoption but…I just can’t do it. If I gave this child up, I’d never have a moment’s peace for the rest of my life.

Connie sighed patiently. Dinah, just because you were adopted—

Dinah nodded. That’s right, I was, but it’s not necessary for my child to deal with it, like I had to. She thrust her hands into her pockets. I can afford to support a baby all by myself, if necessary.

Unlike your mother, you mean?

Dinah stiffened and tossed her head, trying to hide her hurt with bravado. Who knows what my mother could do? After she dumped me, she dnfted off the face of the earth. Even the cops couldn’t track her down.

I know. Connie sympathized for a moment, then her face brightened. But Dinah, eventually adoption worked out for you. The Lanes loved you.

Dinah thought of the sweet, elderly couple who’d adopted her after she’d bounced around the system while the court tried to find her parents. For eight years, she was in and out of foster homes, in and out of trouble—a hard-luck story all the way Until the day the Lanes walked into her life and helped her turn it around. Dinah’s face softened. Mom and Dad Lane were wonderful people. I was lucky to have them.

Again, she stared at the river, drawing strength from the relentless flow of the current. Only those who’d been in her situation could understand her feelings. Her adopted parents had been wonderful but, much as she had loved them, they weren’t her own flesh and blood. Perhaps that wouldn’t have mattered if she’d been adopted when she was a baby; but for such a long time she didn’t have a permanent home—just a series of bedrooms and sofa beds. She’d had nothing to call her own. Every day, Dinah had been aware that she belonged to no one.that no one had wanted her. No. I’ll never consider adoption for my baby. Regardless of the cost, I’ll do whatever it takes to keep this little one.

I want my child to know me, Dinah finally said simply, pulling her hands from her pockets to cross them protectively over her abdomen.

But keeping a baby is a huge responsibility. You’re only twenty-six…there’s tons of time to have a child. Connie heaved herself to her feet. Meanwhile, you could have an open adoption and—

I’m keeping this baby. My mind’s made up, Connie.

Connie rolled her eyes. Aren’t you forgetting something? Like a husband? Especially if Jack’s out of the picture.

Dinah firmed her lips. Nowadays, you don’t need a husband to have a baby.

You do if you work for the McAllister Family bank.

Dinah slowly levered herself from the porch railing. Her brief spurt of defiance died. Unfortunately, Connie was right. She’d already come to that conclusion after she’d spoken with Jack, but hated to admit it.

Maysville may be a little city now, but it’s still a small town at heart, Di—

Whose conservative attitudes are more in tune with the ‘50s. I know. And that was unfortunate, because Dinah loved her career. She loved helping people reach their dreams, but the McAllisters had very definite ideas about the behavior of their employees—especially about their managers’ An unmarried, pregnant loan officer wouldn’t send the right image to the public. With the baby coming, Dinah couldn’t risk losing her job because of the stigma her stuffy boss attached to unwed motherhood. Besides, she felt a strong commitment to her adopted community. She loved it here. It was home.

1 was hoping… She exhaled, blowing her bangs off her forehead. Connie, I’ve come to a decision. I need a husband for my career, and to give my baby a legitimate name. Dinah stared at the river and took a deep breath. So, I’ve decided to advertise for one.

Connie squealed with excitement. You’re going to run a personal ad? I’ve always wanted to do that.

Dinah turned and extended her arms along the rail. I thought I should run it in the business section.

No. You need to place it in the personals. That’s where you look for dates.

This isn’t a date. It’s a short-term business deal, complete with a one-year contract and corresponding fee.

Doesn’t matter. Connie bit her finger as she considered Dinah. You wouldn’t find any romantic men in the business section. They’ll think it’s a joke.

I’m not looking for romance. I’m looking for someone upright, quiet and restrained who won’t draw attention to himselfor me.

Oh

Dinah could see from Connie’s face that she considered that the most boring answer she’d ever heard, but Dinah didn’t care. Somewhere out there had to be a stable, reasonable man who could temporarily lend her some of his respectability.

I still think—

Okay, I’ll put it in the personals. Dinah pulled a folded paper from the pocket of her shorts. I wrote the ad this afternoon. Want to hear? I wasn’t sure how to— She unfolded the paper and held it before her like a woman reading her last will and testament.

Single, White, Professional Female needs Single—

Connie tossed her a knowing look. You mean—SWPF needs SWPM. It’s easier.

Dinah frowned and started over. SWPF must hire SWPM for temporary position— She jerked to a stop at the distasteful look on Connie’s face. What?

Connie wrinkled her nose. That’s it?

I think it comes right to the point.

That’s the problem. There’s no pizzazz. No reason for a guy to buckle on the old spurs and jump in the saddle.

Dinah balled her fist onto her hips. I don’t want anyone to jump in the saddle!

Connie’s brows drew together into one big slash of black as she applied herself to the problem. To get a response, you need something like—’I’m looking for an intelligent man who’s willing to spoil me—I’m a platinum blonde, five foot one and one hundred pounds of cuddly cuteness just waiting for.’ Connie waved her arms in the air. Et cetera, et cetera.

I don’t want someone to spoil me. I want someone to marry me so I can keep my baby without losing my job.

Okay. Connie giggled. How about—’Attractive chick seeks a sensational stud for a temporary personal merger at your place or mine.’

Dinah rubbed her fingers across her brow. Suddenly she had the most awful headache. Will you get senous? I don’t intend to get involved with this guy. It’s business. A quick ceremony, then a year later he’s out of my life.

Professional woman and man? How’s that?

Removing the ballpoint pen clipped inside her pocket, Dinah bit her lip for a moment, then scribbled—

New Position

Attractive Professional Woman seeks Attractive Professional Man for temporary personal merger. No long-term obligations.

Enjoyable rewards for right person.

Written response please. #2675

When she finished, Dinah showed it to Connie. I know it’s not up to your salacious standards, but I think it’s a bit…mysterious, yet appropriate. I think it’ll be effective, don’t you?

You won’t know until you buy some ad space.

Dinah shook her head. "No, we’re buying ad space."

Who’s we?

I can’t do this without you, Connie. You have to place the ad. I can’t You know how word gets around in this town. Dinah put all of her sales skills to work on convincing her friend. It’ll only run for a week, so I think we can get away with it without anyone knowing. And if anyone finds out, well…you’re rather unconventional.

Connie stared at her for a moment, as if she’d lost her mind.

We’ll get a post-office box. You can pick up the letters and we can look at them together. Dinah bit her lip, applying herself to the problem. Of course, we’ll have to come up with a plan to screen these guys first. There are a lot of kooks out there, you know.

What kooks would look for a personal ad like that?

Bankrupt ones?

Chuckling, Connie agreed. You can always meet them for coffee first. Somewhere public, you know? She rubbed her hands together, ready for action. Okay, here’s the plan First we’ll find the man, then we’ll start buying baby clothes and filling the nursery.

Once again, Dinah felt her purposefully calm demeanor slip. She’d been so careful since she discovered the pregnancy, trying to consider the situation logically and unemotionally. She’d almost managed to convince herself that keeping this child was as much a business decision as a temporary husband was. But Connie’s words suddenly made her realize otherwise. This is a baby I’m talking about. A child who’ll laugh, cry and need me for the rest of my life. What if I can’t handle it? My mother couldn’t.

God, what am I doing?

Suddenly overwhelmed, Dinah sank to the floor and drew her knees up close to her chest She blinked back the tears that were dangerously close to overflowing and looked up at her concerned friend bending over her. She smffed How can I have a baby? I don’t know anything about babies.

So you’ll learn the hard way. Other people do.

Dinah sniffed again, then the words tumbled out. I don’t even have a nursery. I only have one bedroom since the upstairs bathroom was added, and that tiny alcove that’s barely large enough for a desk.

Connie patted Dinah’s knee. You’ve been talking about remodeling for the past few months anyway.

Trying to keep her emotions under control, Dinah whispered, That was in case Jack and I—

Connie waved away Dinah’s comment. Now you definitely need to, so go ahead and add a room. Isn’t that what the previous owner was going to do, anyway?

Dinah brightened and rubbed her cheeks, her natural optimism reinforced by Connie’s encouraging words. That’s right. He had the plans drawn and everything ready to go. He’d started his material estimates and done everything but apply for the building permit before his company transferred him to Paris. I didn’t need the extra space, so I put all of it in a file box and stuck it in the closet.

She tapped her finger against her lip as she considered her one extravagance, the charming old house she’d used almost all of her savings to buy a year ago. She’d fallen in love with the Victorian cottage with ornately carved wood details surrounding the porch, the eaves and windows. It would be an investment in the future, wouldn’t it?

Feeling a bit steadier, she stood up to ponder the matter. I’ll write an ad for a carpenter, too. We can place it in next week’s classifieds. Dinah gazed at her small house, then toward the river, imagining her baby loving both as much as she did. I want a very special room for this little one.

A week later, Will Dennison paused inside the door and glanced around the sparsely populated room. Mom’s Diner looked like a hundred others he’d eaten in over the years, a bit cleaner than most perhaps, but just another place on the road with worn gray tables and red vinyl booths. He wiped a bead of sweat from his brow. He’d climbed into his truck at dawn and suddenly felt like he’d spent damn near half his life on the road to nowhere. He wondered briefly if it might be time to stop.

The saucy waitress giving him the eye was also familiar, reminding minding him of the other women he’d flirted with to pass the time since he’d started traveling. There’d been more than a few. Remembering that made him feel a bit better.admiration was addictive when you had nothing else. Will hooked his left thumb into his belt, grinned and winked at her. That’s more like it, boy, he told himself as he got a glimpse of his profile in the mirror behind the cash register. It’s way too early to settle down. You’re only twenty-nine. Haven’t even hit your prime yet.

Under her admiring gaze, Will cocked his hat a bit lower over his right eye and sauntered across the dull linoleum in his trademark style, boot heels clicking on the floor in a cross between a stroll and a strut. He adjusted the hammered-silver belt buckle and slid onto a stool. Resting his elbows on the Formica counter, he let his grin broaden as the waitress tossed him another admiring look over her shoulder.

Hey there, honey. Whaddaya’ll suggest for a hungry man?

The woman, who looked like she’d been around the block a time or two before, turned around and put her hand on her hip. She sent him a saucy smile, the type only an older, experienced woman could give. Well now, cowboy, that depends on what you’re hungry for.

Will removed his hat, placing