Back to December

By Heather McCoubrey

Thanks to an abusive mother and an absent father, Anna Blackhurst has only known the love of two people: her Gram and her best friend, Niki.

When Anna meets Cooper Reed in a smoky club, she's immediately drawn to his good looks but isn't prepared to open herself up to a relationship. As time passes, Anna finds herself falling in love with Cooper and she begins to rethink her future. Maybe, despite her childhood, she can have a happy-ever-after.

But when her mother is in a terrible accident, she again sinks her claws into Anna and Anna's world is thrown upside down. Despite Cooper's unwavering support, Anna walks away only to regret it immediately. In order to heal, not only herself - but also her broken relationship, Anna must stand up for herself and accept that the only way she's going to be happy is if she grabs hold of it herself.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Dragonfly Publishing, LLC
• Release date: Jun 15, 2014
• ISBN: 9781958973035

Heather McCoubrey

Heather McCoubrey is a native of Maine but having moved all over the U.S. as a child, she doesn't sound like one. She's been writing since middle school when a teacher taught her she could create her own stories instead of just reading them. That year she had some of her first poems published in the school magazine and from there she graduated to writing a full-length novel in high school.She is the self-published author of TO LOVE TWICE, BACK TO DECEMBER, and the novel that she wrote in high school, renamed EMILY'S CHOICE. Her latest novel, TRUE LOVE'S KISS will be released in Fall 2022. She is currently working on her next novel.Heather resides in Pennsylvania with her children and their menagerie of pets. Even though she is hard at work on her next novel, she makes time to daydream about living on a tropical island year-round, practice her (terrible) British accent, and uses her supermom powers for good.Visit Heather on her website at http://heathermccoubrey.com and sign up for her newsletter at http://eepurl.com/baUScb.

Book preview

Prologue

December 2011

The sunset was starting to paint the sky with dark reds and oranges. The snow on the beach was now a pinkish color, reflecting the gorgeous rays of the setting sun. Cooper threw open the curtains to take advantage of the beautiful view, and even though it was winter in Maine, he opened the balcony door a bit to allow the fresh, salty ocean breeze to flow through the room.

Wiping damp palms on his pants, he turned toward the table. Room service had done an amazing job bringing romance to the room, and most especially the table. Perfectly centered on the table was a clear crystal vase of deep-red roses, with some rose petals sprinkled between the place settings. Cooper reached over and turned the vase so the bow would face Anna’s place. The tray of food was off to the side, and a bottle of chilled champagne sat in a bucket of ice next to it. He walked over to the stereo and turned it on. The soft, jazzy sound of Sade, Anna's favorite, drifted through the room. Everything was ready.

His heart jumped into his throat when he heard the bathroom door open.

I think I’m ready, Anna said as she walked into the suite. She was looking at her skirt, smoothing the wrinkle-free garment down her legs. Looking up, her chocolate-brown eyes widened. Oh, Cooper.

Anna, you look amazing, Cooper said as he walked over and gently took her hand in his. Leaning down, he brushed a kiss across her lips. He rested his forehead on hers. You take my breath away, he whispered.

Anna raised her free hand and wrapped it around the back of his neck. Playing with his hair, she closed her eyes. You spoil me, she said quietly.

You deserve it. Cooper lifted his head and led her over to the table. Pulling out her chair, he helped her sit and then pushed her chair in. He took the champagne out of the ice-filled bucket, expertly popped the cork, and filled their glasses. He took a rose out of the vase and offered it to her. For you, my love.

Thank you, she replied softly.

The way he handled the rest of the night would determine the outcome. He decided to serve dinner first—best to get her relaxed—then get into the real reason for the evening. He lifted the lid on the tray and pushed it closer to the table. For my lady, we have grilled lobster tails, filet mignon, asparagus with a creamy hollandaise sauce and fresh dinner rolls, Cooper gestured extravagantly.

It looks delicious, Cooper.

They’d met six months ago. Cooper Reed had fallen hard and fast for Anna Blackhurst. She took his breath away, rocked his foundation, and made him dream. He hadn’t been on steady ground since, but he didn’t care. She was his complete opposite, and everything he wanted for the rest of his life.

Her tiny, slender frame made her look fragile, but Anna was as tough as steel when the occasion called for it. It always startled him when she would stand up to him, her slight frame quivering with emotion. Her eyes, a dark brown and too big for her face, would inevitably do him in.

He’d always been a long hair guy, but hers was short—styled in a trendy pixie cut. The sleek, dark-auburn hair shone in the candlelight, and he knew from experience how silky soft it was. He longed to reach out and stroke it, to pull her closer and dine on her lips instead of the food in front of them.

He couldn't wait a minute longer. Pushing his plate away, he reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a black velvet box.

Closing his eyes briefly, he exhaled and stood up. Taking three steps over to Anna, he got down on one knee.

Cooper? Anna asked uneasily.

He took her hand and placed a kiss on her knuckles. Anna, my world changed the night I met you. You bring light into my life, you make me laugh, and you make me want to be a better man. You make me understand, for the first time, what love really means. You are the light of my life and I never want that light to go out. I want to spend the rest of my life loving you, Cooper opened the box and showed her what was inside. I love you, Anna. Will you marry me?

Anna closed her eyes and slowly shook her head. Pushing her chair back, she stood up. She placed her fingers on his cheek, tears flowing down hers. I’m sorry, Cooper. No.

He watched her gather up her purse and walk over to the door.

I'm so sorry, Cooper, she whispered.

And taking his heart with her, she walked out.

Chapter 1

May 2012

Five months later . . .

Cooper's heart stopped. She was here, standing in front of him. He thought he'd never see her again, had at times even wished he wouldn't. His eyes, thirsty for the sight of her, drank in her appearance. Her once shiny, auburn hair was now dull and lifeless. Her face was gaunt, making the dark circles under her eyes more pronounced. Her clothing hung on her tiny frame, doing nothing to hide the obvious weight loss. Tears were shimmering in her eyes, and panic was etched on her face.

He wanted to reach out and pull her to him. To hold her tight and make sure she never left him again.

That was his heart speaking.

His brain made him step back from the door and eye her warily. He clenched his fists by his side and stared hard at her.

Anna. Cooper nodded his head.

He watched as she pulled her lower lip between her teeth. Her hands were shaking and she clasped them together tightly in front of her. His heart broke for her nerves and her fear of him. His brain, well, it had other thoughts. Thoughts that were better kept to himself.

Why are you here, Anna? he asked.

Oh God, this is so hard. I can't do it.

She turned away and his hand snaked out, grabbing her upper arm. Where are you going?

I don't know. I-I'm just scared.

Why are you here, Anna? Cooper stared into her eyes, looking for some sign of why she was on his doorstep. He had an idea of why, hoped it was what he thought, but he needed her to say it. He wasn't going to help her. Why?

Anna looked away. I miss you, she admitted. I miss you so much; it's physical pain. Every day, since I walked out of that hotel room, I've regretted it.

It's been five months, Anna.

I know.

Why now?

Dad, Niki, even Gram to some extent. I had to come, beg for another chance. Even if you say no, at least I’ll have closure. But I can’t go on the way I was anymore. I had to come.

He thrust his hand through his hair. Five months is a long time, Anna.

Cooper watched as Anna nodded her head. Tears streamed down her cheeks. I know, and I’m so sorry for causing you pain. I’d go back and make it all right if I could. God, I screwed up, but I understand what you’re saying. I’m too late.

She turned and walked away. Panic shot through his system. Could he let her walk away again? Could he stand there and let his life crumble? Could he let the woman of his dreams disappear?

Anna wanted to double over and collapse on the floor in a heap of tears and pain. Heart breaking, tears streaming, she instead raced down the hall and through the lobby. She needed to be alone; she had to get out of the building, into the fresh air and away from all things Cooper. She'd die if he came after her, she wouldn't be able to stand the pity and anger she knew she'd see in his eyes. God. Why had she come? Why had she reopened the wound? She should have known, had known, that it was too late. But Niki lit a candle of hope, and Anna had desperately wanted to believe he still wanted her.

Bursting out onto the sidewalk, she was blind and deaf to everything around her, lost in her broken heart. She kept running, across the busy street. Her destination was the park across the street. She'd be able to get herself under control before too long, if she could just make it to her bench under the tree by the pond. It would be dark soon, and she had to be okay by then. Cooper always said the park was spooky after dark, and she didn't want to find herself spooked and upset.

Fresh tears flowed down her face at the memory of Cooper's words. Screeching tires and honking horns invaded her thoughts, and she screamed as she looked up into the terrified eyes of a cabbie. She froze in front of the cab, unable to move or breathe. He stopped a foot from her and the driver jumped out of the cab, stomping over to her.

Are you crazy lady? I almost ran you over.

Anna stared at him, barely able to comprehend his words. I'm sorry, she whispered and then darted across the street, disappearing into the park.

Anna sank onto the bench, pain ripping her heart in two. She was so stupid. Five months had passed and she was entirely too naive if she thought a good-looking, successful, wonderful person like Cooper hadn't moved on. She was the only one who was letting the situation ruin her life. She'd done nothing to move on, had in fact pretty much gone backwards. She couldn't remember the last time she’d focused on anything other than her broken heart since she'd walked out on Cooper.

She wanted to go back to Christmas Eve and say Yes. She wanted to be happy, loved, and secure.

She'd met a man who had been her complete opposite, one who had taught her that she was worthy of love, of being in a committed relationship, of being able to trust. He was so easy to be with. He listened, let her be herself, never tried to change her. He appreciated her for herself. He never used her. She could count on one hand the number of people who were that wonderful in her life.

She wanted to scream, punch, kick—anything and everything. She'd screwed up so badly and there was nothing she could do about it. She'd like to take this all out on her mother. The trauma of childhood and this past fall had led her further down the path of distrust and fear. If not for her mother’s abuse and her father’s lack of attention—she might be in a different place. Anna had made the decision to turn down Cooper's proposal, but they had been the reason she did.

So lost in her pain and thoughts, Anna jumped when a hand rested on her shoulder. Scared it was Cooper, she slowly raised her head and gasped. She lifted her trembling hand toward the face of an old woman seated beside her on the bench.

Gram? Anna whispered in disbelief. Gone for eighteen months, a day didn't go by that Anna didn't think of Lily. And the woman sitting next to her was the spitting image of her late grandmother. The clear, blue eyes twinkling with love and wisdom. The snow-white hair pulled up in a bun. The square-framed glasses perched on the tip of her nose, with a jeweled chain hanging around her neck ensuring they wouldn't get lost.

The old woman patted her back. Are you alright, honey child?

Anna's jaw dropped; that was the same nickname Gram had always used on Anna. Anna shook herself. There was no way this woman was Gram, but the resemblance was astonishing.

No, not at all. But I’m sure my problems are of no interest to you.

Oh child, it can't be as bad as all that.

It is. I walked away from him five months ago, and now he's moved on. My chance at happily-ever-after is gone.

There's always a way out of a mess. I find that talking through my problems helps. It digs up long-buried things and helps solutions rise to the top. Why don't you tell me your story and we'll see what happens.

It’s ridiculous, I’m sure you have better things to do than listen to my sad tale.

Just let it out, honey child. You never know.

Anna desperately needed someone. She couldn't bear to see Niki right now. The pain of lost hope was too much. Niki would take her in and comfort her, but the failure was too much to bear in the face of Niki's flame of hope.

Anna needed someone, and she wondered if fate had brought her this woman, who was so much like her Gram, when she needed her the most. Taking a deep breath, and before she could stop herself, she began her story.

Chapter 2

February 2011

Rain, giant, soaking drops, fell from the sky. God had called home an angel and left one behind to muddle through the pain and grief. Anna stared out the window, knowing she should get dressed but unable to summon the will. Tears made tracks down her cheeks as she tried to wrap her mind around Gram being gone.

A soft knock on the door made her turn. Come in, she called out softly.

She watched Niki come through the door and breathed a sigh of relief that it wasn't someone else. Niki would understand her need for quiet, for peace.

Your father just arrived, she said as she glanced toward the bed and the clothes that were neatly arranged there. Do you want help? she asked gently.

Anna stared at Niki, unseeing, as a wave of grief snuck up and wrapped its arms around her heart. She crumpled to the floor and covered her face with her hands. I can't do this. I'm not ready.

Niki rushed over, knelt by Anna's side, and pulled her into her arms. Let it out, Niki crooned against Anna's temple.

Anna was thankful to have her best friend here and she couldn’t imagine what she'd do without Niki's help. Since her plane had touched down, Niki had been handling almost everything. She'd helped Anna make all the funeral arrangements, something Anna hadn't been able to face. Niki had also run interference with Anna's father. He'd been a pain about everything since Anna had called to tell him the sad news.

When Anna's tears finally dried up, Niki helped her to her feet and walked her over to the bed. Anna sat and Niki went to the bathroom for a washcloth. When Niki placed the cool, wet washcloth on her face, Anna sighed. The coolness soothed her puffy skin.

You should get dressed before your father comes up, wondering where you are.

Anna stood and took off her robe. Sitting on the bed, she carefully pulled on her nylons. Niki had her black silk dress unzipped and ready. Anna stepped into it and let Niki zip up the back. I don't know what I'd do without you, Niki, Anna said, pulling Niki into a hug. Today would be one of the hardest in Anna's life, but she knew Niki would help her through it. That's what best friends did. Best friends, closer than sisters. How are you doing? I know you were close to Gram too.

I'd be just as lost without you, Niki said. And I'm doing okay. It swoops in from out of nowhere and leaves just as fast. This grief is a damn roller coaster.

Anna nodded and sighed. I know. I wonder if it'll get easier?

Niki shook her head. No, not really. You just get used to it. At least, that's my experience with Mom.

Anna walked into the bathroom to check her hair and to add a little makeup to her pale face. I'm not ready to face him yet.

I don't blame you, but it's probably best to get it out of the way now. He'll just come up here to find you. Better to face him head on than have him find you cowering in here.

Anna sighed. You're right, you're right.

She gathered up her purse and her black, wool cape and turned to Niki. Let's get this over with.

They descended the stairs and walked into the living room.

Anna. Thomas greeted his daughter.

Flinching, she met her father's eyes. His were full of happiness while Anna's showed nothing but despair. She didn't think he even noticed the pain in her eyes.

When are we heading to the church? Thomas asked.

Niki and I are going over at three.

Barbie and I will ride with you. We're all coming back here after, right?

We are coming back here, but you can't ride with us. Aunt Janine and Uncle Hugh are riding with us. They'll be here soon.

Hm, Thomas said, irritation flickering in his eyes.

Where is Barbie? Niki asked.

In the ladies’ room, he replied tersely.

I need some water, Anna said and retreated to the kitchen. She couldn't deal with her father or his young, bubbly, ditzy girlfriend right now. All she wanted to do was to curl up in bed and forget that Gram was gone.

You need anything? Niki asked quietly.

Anna shook her head.

I say we stop at the liquor store tonight and stock up. Then when everyone leaves, we can get rip-roaring drunk.

Sounds like a plan to me. You sure we can't start now?

Niki smirked. I'd love to. So, what's up with your dad?

Anna sighed. He thinks everything is his now. And since Gram is gone, he can marry Barbie. She can't stop him and now he's free, Anna shrugged.

Doesn't he even feel a twinge at her death?

If he does, he's hiding it well.

When's the reading of the will?

I don't know. Honestly, I don't even care.

I can stay as long as you need me, you know that right?

Anna nodded. I do and I love you for it. I just don't want to put you any further behind than you already are.

You won't. I have wonderful clients, and they all understand. I'm here for as long as you need me. Promise.

Thank you, Anna offered a small smile.

When Niki arrived three days ago, Anna had been relieved to see her. Once the initial shock of Gram's death had eased, Anna worried what Niki had left behind, praying the rush to her side hadn’t resulted in any lost opportunities or burned bridges. Niki assured her that all was well with the client and relayed the conversation to Anna.

Niki instructed her assistant to immediately call the airlines and book her on the next flight out. Then she'd gone in search of the project supervisor, Jim.

Jim, Niki said as she spotted him by the food table. Shocker.

Hey, Niki. What's going on?

I've just gotten a call, family emergency, death in the family.

Whoa, that's terrible. I'm so sorry.

My assistant is calling the airlines. I'm on my way to the hotel to pack and get to the airport.

Wait, what about the shoot? It took us months to set this up. Can't we do it real quick before you catch your flight? Who knows how long it'll take or even when the next flight is.

Niki counted to ten. Are you serious? Niki stared, daggers shooting from her slitted eyes.

Well... Jim pulled his collar away from his neck. The powers that be won't be pleased with the delay. I don't fancy having to tell them that we got all the way out here, everything set up, and now you're leaving before even one picture has been taken.

I see. Niki settled back on her heels. She clasped her hands behind her back and looked down at the ground. She was trying to rein in her temper and wanted badly to put her hands around his chunky throat.

See?

What I see, Niki started in a deceptively calm voice. Is an asshole. I've just found out about a death in my family, and all you can think about is a photo shoot?

Uh, Jim began.

Zip it, Niki snapped. You don't get to backpedal now. Do you even know who I am?

Of course, it's why you were hired.

I don't think you know the full extent of it. Niki took a step closer to Jim. My reputation means everything to me. I've spent ten years building it, and NOTHING has ever fallen through the cracks. You'll have your photo shoot and all in good time. Niki took another step closer to Jim and stared down into his beady eyes. But, it's not going to be now.

Niki turned on her heel and strode off toward her hired car, dismissing Jim from her mind. She was focused on getting home to Anna.

Chloe met her at the car. Your flight leaves in ninety minutes.

Perfect, thank you.

They got in the car, and Niki pulled out her phone to call the powers that be.

Clearwater.

Norman, it's Niki Kennedy.

Niki. Hey, how's the shoot going?

It's not. Look, I know we spent a lot of time and energy coordinating this. But I just got a call from Anna. Her grandmother died. I've got to get home, I'm actually on my way to the airport as we speak.

Of course. We'll reschedule, not a problem.

Listen, Norman, when this is over, you'll be my first priority.

Go home, be with your family. This can wait.

Norman, Niki paused, letting the emotion pass. Just, thanks.

Anytime, you take care.

Niki hung up and leaned her head back against the seat, closing her eyes.

All's good? Chloe asked.

Niki nodded.

What about Jim?

Eyes still closed, Niki answered her. He'll get his comeuppance. Norman and I go way back. If he says anything to Norman, he'll tear Jim apart.

Interesting.

Niki smirked. I'm full of surprises.

Niki ran into the hotel and packed her bags, throwing her clothes and toiletries haphazardly into the suitcase. She gathered up her laptop and files and stuffed them into her briefcase. Gathering it all up, she rushed out of the room and back to the car. Chloe was already waiting for her in the car, the checkout process not taking nearly as much time as dashing up thirty floors to pack and come back down.

Three days after the funeral, Anna sat in the lawyer's office waiting on her father and Barbie to arrive. Niki offered to attend, but Anna feared her father's reaction to the reading and thought it best if Niki wasn't there. Niki had no love or respect for Thomas and tended to get in his face if she didn't agree with him. She loved Niki for it, but wanted to keep the controversy to a minimum today.

Fifteen minutes after the meeting was supposed to start, Thomas and Barbie arrived.

Hi, sorry we're late. We lost track of time, Barbie giggled.

Anna rolled her eyes. She didn't look at her father, or the ditz, focusing on the clouds outside of the lawyer's window instead.

After Barbie and Thomas sat down, Gram's long-time lawyer began the reading. She listened with half an ear as he went through all the lawyer terms at the beginning. She truly wished she were anywhere but here. The money, the estates, everything, none of it mattered to her. She'd give it all up just to have Gram back.

To my son, Thomas, I leave a stipend in the amount of $10,000. This sum is to be paid monthly, from interest accrued. To my sister-in-law, Janine Blackhurst Estrada . . .

Wait, wait, wait, Thomas interrupted. Are you kidding me? That's all I get? Ten thousand paid monthly? No houses? No cars? No knick-knacks?

No sir, that’s all it says in the will, the lawyer said, clearing his throat and tugging at his collar.

Well then, who gets it?

Sir, let me finish reading the will, and then you'll have the answers.

No, I'm not sitting here while you read through every person my mother ever knew and felt she had to leave something to. Just tell me who? Thomas demanded.

Sir, I don't feel comfortable giving that part out until I have finished the reading.

Dad, just let him finish.

Thomas let out a huff, but he sat back and quieted down. Barbie reached over and held his hand, giving it a slight squeeze.

The lawyer coughed and continued. . . . To my sister-in-law, Janine Blackhurst Estrada, I leave Warren's collection of vinyl records and my collection of biographies, the lawyer continued. I also leave a sum of $50,000 to be used as she wishes, however, my wish for her and Hugh is that they will take an annual vacation and rediscover their joy and love for each other. Life is so short. Cherish the time you have together.

Unbelievable. Thomas fumed.

Anna let her mind drift to the decision she'd been mulling over this week. The house was too empty without Gram, and everywhere Anna looked were memories upon memories. She was thinking about moving out of the house and finding an apartment in Portland. She didn't need all that space, and it would be closer to work. A co-worker lived in one of the condos facing the bay, and Anna had fallen in love with it the first time she'd visited. She wondered if there was one available, and if not, how long the wait would be.

And to my beloved granddaughter, Anna Blackhurst, I leave the rest of my estate.

Are you kidding me? Thomas yelled, jumping to his feet. I'm her SON.

Dad, please.

Please? He spat the words, spittle flying from his lips. Please what? What can you say to me? She left you everything.

Dad, this isn't helping, Anna pleaded, trying to keep the tears at bay. This is what she wanted, she wrote her will, there's nothing we can do.

The hell there isn't.

The lawyer cleared his throat. If I may finish?

What? There's more?

There is.

Oh for the love of God. Thomas sat back down, sending a fulminating glare at his daughter. Fine, finish.

In the event of Thomas's death, the stipend of $10,000 will revert to Anna, even in the event of Thomas's marriage and/or birth of a child or children.

What? Barbie shrieked. She turned toward Thomas. Can she do that? How is that possible? Won't you have your own will?

Damn right I will, Thomas assured Barbie. Now see here, Mr. Carruthers, this is not right. I’m going to fight this.

You’re welcome to try, Thomas, Mr. Carruthers said stiffly. I doubt it’ll get you anywhere, though. Lily had this will drawn up when Warren died. I assure you, it’s quite strong.

We’ll see about that. She won't get away with this. Thomas stood and offered his arm to Barbie. Come on, Barbie, let's get out of here. We'll stop by Keegan's office and get his opinion.

Anna watched her father leave with Barbie. No, leave was too tame a word. He stormed out of the office, slamming Mr. Carruthers's door on his way out.

Sighing, Anna stared at her hands as she addressed Mr. Carruthers. Sir, I wonder, can I change that clause?

What do you mean?

I mean the one that says when he dies, the money comes to me?

I don't think you can, but I see no reason that once he's gone you can’t set up a monthly withdrawal to their account. Or set up a trust fund for any child they may have.

Anna nodded. This is such a mess.

He won't be able to break this, Anna, if that's what you're worried about, Mr. Carruthers said gently.

No, I'm not worried about that. It's just that I can see the years spread out ahead of me and this being the big, pink elephant in the room.

I understand, Mr. Carruthers paused. You know, she knew this would happen. Hoped it wouldn't, but knew it was probable. She wanted you to be secure. She didn't want you to be left with nothing. She knew leaving it to your father meant there wouldn't be anything left upon his death.

Tears welled up in Anna's eyes. I don't know what to say.

Accept it, Anna. She loved you more than anything. Mr. Carruthers opened his folder and withdrew an envelope. She left this for you, he said as he passed it to her.

Anna wasn't sure how long she could hold back the tears. A letter from her grandmother? It was beyond priceless. Is there anything I need to do?

Not right away. I will take care of transferring everything to you. Once that's complete, you'll need to come down and sign some papers.

Thank you, Mr. Carruthers, Anna said, standing. She reached out and shook his hand. You'll let me know if anything changes?

Of course. You'll hear from me by the middle of next week. If you have any questions in the meantime, don't hesitate to call.

I won't. Thank you again.

Anna pulled on her coat, gathered up her purse, and clutching the letter in her hand, walked out of the office.

Chapter 3

March 2011

T his house has been in our family for over fifty years, Anna said as she showed the couple the master bedroom.

Why are you looking to rent it? the woman asked.

Anna smiled brightly, though she really wanted to cry. My grandmother passed recently, and I’m looking at purchasing a condo in the Old Port. It’s closer to work. I can’t bear to sell this house, but it needs love and someone who will care for it.

The woman nodded and went into the master bath. Oh my God. Justin, come in here. Look at this tub.

Anna sighed and followed Justin into the bathroom. This bathroom was updated about a year ago. The shower stall has two shower heads. The tub has Jacuzzi jets.

After much oohing and ahhing over the bathroom, Justin led his wife into the hall. They checked out the rest of the bedrooms, and Justin made a cursory tour of the attic.

That little bedroom next to the master bedroom would be perfect for the nursery, Justin.

I know, Maggie... He turned to Anna. Can we have a moment?

Of course. I’ll be downstairs in the kitchen. Take all the time you need, Anna said politely.

Thank you, Justin and Maggie said.

Anna smiled as Maggie began her case for renting when she thought Anna was out of earshot.

I just don’t know if we can afford it, Mags. With the baby coming, we really should be saving money.

But, Justin, we don’t have enough space in the apartment now. When the baby comes, he’ll be sleeping in our room indefinitely.

Maybe we could move in with your mother for a little while? We’d be saving on rent, you’d have the extra help, and I could pick up more shifts.

Anna caught herself eavesdropping, so she scooted down the rest of the stairs and into the kitchen. She felt bad about their situation. She could tell this young couple really wanted their own space, and it seemed as if Justin was the conscientious partner. Of course, Maggie was probably working on hormones at this point in her pregnancy.

This was the fourth showing she’d done this week. She was ready for it to be over, but with the way the conversation was going upstairs, she didn’t think it was. She did have two showings scheduled for next week, but she’d been hoping to cancel them.

Anna forced a smile and nodded when Justin and Maggie came downstairs and gave their excuses. Anna could tell that Maggie was holding back tears. I understand.

We’ll be in touch, Justin said and ushered Maggie out the door.

Anna sighed and sagged onto the kitchen chair. She was doing the wrong thing, she knew it. The house was hers, free and clear. She should just stay here. But staying here was impossible. The memories alone would drive her insane.

The only good thing about the week had been finding the condo of her dreams. Its large windows in the living room and master bedroom faced the bay, providing a view that could not be ignored. She’d put in her offer this morning and was hoping to hear back by the end of the day. She crossed her fingers that the owners accepted her offer. She didn’t want to go too much higher, but it was prime real estate, and she was sure she wasn’t the only one bidding on it.

The condo was close to the office, and she was excited to realize that on most days she’d be able to walk to work. She shivered when she thought about the winters, but then shook her head. The brisk ocean air would do her good. She smiled when she thought that her car wouldn’t even get warmed up on the short drive. She’d be better off walking and getting her blood pumping. She could always dress in layers and bring in a small, portable heater to help with the thawing process once she got to work.

Anna picked up her cell phone when it alerted her to a new text message.

U OK?

Anna smiled. Yeah, thanks for asking.

What R U doing?

Just finished with a showing. Don’t think they’ll be the ones.

How many does that make?

Four, I think. Two scheduled for next week.

Did U find a condo?

"Yes. Put an offer in