Because of Whitney

By Diane Craver

Two years ago, TV New York producer Whitney Benson returned to her roots in Ohio after her husband's death in Iraq. Her older sisters, Shannon and Regan, think Whitney needs to move on with her life. They want her to be like them—happily married with children. Whitney is tired of her older sisters' attempts to fix her up with every single male they meet. Shannon and Regan cross the line when they arrange for her to go skydiving with the reason that more guys like to float in the air than women. Whitney hates flying and heights.

She realizes her sisters are busy with matchmaking to keep their minds off their mother's recent death from cancer. She decides to suggest the three of them start a business and hopes that will take the focus off their constant matchmaking efforts. The sisters have fun considering several businesses from a cable TV talk show to an all-girl band. Whitney does wonder if her sisters can treat her as an equal in their new family business instead of their baby sister.

Whitney meets two eligible bachelors, paramedic Jack Hensley and Dr. Ben Spencer, who constantly battle for her affection. Which one will she choose? Both men make Whitney realize, even a heart shattered by her husband's death, can once again be made whole.

But did she have to fall and hit her head on a rock to figure that out?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Diane Craver
• Release date: Oct 7, 2012
• ISBN: 9781502269966

Diane Craver

As the youngest in the family, growing up on a farm in Findlay, Ohio, Diane often acted out characters from her own stories in the backyard. In high school she was the student sitting in class with a novel hidden in front of her propped up textbook. Her passion for reading novels had to be put on hold during her college years at Ohio State University due to working part-time on campus and being a full-time student. Before embarking on her writing career, Diane was a school teacher and play director. She enjoys her life with her husband, six children, daughter-in-law and three grandchildren in southwestern Ohio. Her husband of thirty-nine years is very supportive, as well as her awesome children. She writes Amish fiction, contemporary romance, historical fiction,  inspirational mainstream and chick-lit mystery.  

Book preview

Chapter One

Whitney Benson put her mother’s walker in the closet. She would take it later to a nursing home for someone else to use. Before shutting the door, she couldn’t resist fingering her mother’s favorite dress she used to wear to church. Whitney leaned again the closed door as tears ran down her face. Mom died three weeks ago, and she still didn’t have a clue what to do with her life.

Going back to New York wasn’t an option. She’d quit her job to return home to take care of her mother. She never regretted her decision and hadn’t missed the big city. It’d been the right choice to live again in Cornett, Ohio.

Her heart never could’ve taken staying in New York after her life had been turned upside down with her husband’s death. She’d managed to keep her sanity while being her mother’s caregiver, but now her weak grip on life was gone.

Her mother’s funeral had ignited a new attack on her soul because Rob’s death once again haunted her with a vengeance. Maybe she was losing her mind. How could she go on with life when her love had died a violent death? Although he’d been dead for twenty-two months, it seemed like yesterday when the network had notified her of his death in Iraq. Then, they’d told her there would be no body to ship home to her. Rob had been blown to bits by a horrible bomb while covering the news. He’d been doing what he loved, but that fact wasn’t any comfort to her.

Only a month after Rob’s death, her shock deepened with the news about her mother having cancer. Her mother’s illness had given her a purpose to go on with her life. Mom needed her.

Now her sweet mom was gone.

With her grief so deep, Whitney never heard the front door open, but she heard her sisters’ voices yelling for her. They’d called her earlier in the morning to see if she’d be home. Regan had explained that they needed to talk. Maybe it was about the house. She could pay rent until Regan and her husband, Casey, were ready to buy it and move in.

She ran her hands through her dark brown hair. It wouldn’t do for them to see she hadn’t combed it. She wiped her tears with the bottom of her T-shirt, and said in a loud voice, I’m in Mom’s bedroom.

Shannon and Regan entered the room with determined looks. Oh no, what are my sisters up to now? With her being widowed and their mother gone, both felt she needed direction and had told her so more than once.

Whitney, we need to talk, Shannon said.

But first, let’s go into the kitchen. Regan smiled, carrying Chinese food. I brought your favorite.

And fortune cookies, Shannon added.

Well, that wasn’t a good sign. When they wanted her to cooperate with their plans, Regan always thought food was necessary in winning an argument against the youngest sister. Two years ago, she’d been a television news producer for a popular morning program, but those two still treated her like the baby sister. Maybe if she’d had children with Rob, things would’ve been different. Probably not. She’d always be their little sis.

What plans did they have for her? She loved Shannon and Regan but at times they overwhelmed her. Whitney followed them into the kitchen, getting plates from the cupboard while Shannon made coffee.

Regan opened up the containers of food. We think it’s time you get out of the house and do something exciting. Mom would want you to go on with your life. And… She grinned as she scooped out fried rice. We thought of something to do for you.

Whitney shook her head. That’s not necessary—

Yes, it is. Shannon put a spoonful of sugar in her coffee. You quit your job and came back to take care of Mom.

I didn’t mind. Both of you have families, and I didn’t have any reason to stay in New York. Please don’t mention Rob.

Shannon carried the cups of coffee to the table. Regan and I have thought of the perfect thing for you to experience.

Whitney broke open a fortune cookie and read from the slip of paper, You will soon fall in love with a handsome stranger.

Shannon thumped Whitney on the back before joining them at the table. That fortune fits right in with our plans for you.

"I think it fits in with any single woman’s hopeful plans. But certainly not mine."

It’s a sign, Regan said in an eager voice. You’ll see.

Not a cruise. Remember, I told you I don’t want to go on another cruise. Several months earlier, they made her go on a three-day trip while both took turns staying with their mother. They had meant well but going by herself and being surrounded by couples hadn’t been much fun. Shannon and Regan were disappointed that Whitney hadn’t fallen in love on the ship. The only available guy she might have been interested in was the recreational director and he was too short.

We knew you’d say that, and we’ve heard you say how you’ve done it all. Regan put a lock of auburn hair behind her ear and cleared her throat. But we thought of something you haven’t done. It’ll be a thrill of a lifetime.

When we tell you what it is, please don’t say no, Shannon said. We already paid for it.

Whitney stared at them. Okay, you have me curious now. What is it?

Regan set forks down on the table and mumbled, Skydiving.

Whitney gasped, spilling coffee on her hand. Why in the world would they pay for her to go skydiving? Had they lost their minds? You can’t be serious. Are you trying to kill me?

You won’t be jumping by yourself. We talked to the owner about signing you up for a tandem skydive for your first jump. You’ll meet fun people. Shannon patted Whitney’s arm. And the female-male ratio is good…

Regan nodded. There are more guys than women skydiving. And the men are hot and love any woman who drops from the sky.

With raised eyebrows, Whitney asked, How would you two know?

Of course, we checked it all out before we got it for you, Shannon said.

Regan grinned. Shannon, you’re skipping the best part of our visit. We drooled over all the instructors before we signed you up. I did mention I thought you’d be the most comfortable with Nate.

Why Nate? Whitney asked.

Shannon laughed. Regan couldn’t take her eyes off him. He’s drop-dead gorgeous.

Whitney swallowed a forkful of rice. If her sisters were correct and there was an overabundance of men, she knew why. Men wanted to act macho, but how many brain cells did they have to think jumping out of a plane made them tough? That wasn’t fair. Just because she wasn’t into skydiving didn’t mean it was stupid. When had she become so critical? She knew when. After Rob’s death, the optimistic, open-minded part of her died with him.

Maybe you two should go skydiving instead of me.

Regan shook her head. No way. We want you to go.

But I’m afraid of heights. How could they forget I hate flying?

It’s time for you to overcome your fear of heights. Shannon took a bite of shrimp. We want to go to Hawaii sometime. Remember how we promised Mom we would? Just the three of us.

Whitney shrugged. That’s different. I can fly to Hawaii without doing skydiving first.

I don’t think so. Regan scooped a heaping spoonful of chow mien onto her plate. You drove me crazy when we flew to Wisconsin for Aunt Martha’s funeral. You had such terrible anxiety attacks.

Why did she have to have such stubborn sisters? The last thing she felt like doing was something stupid like skydiving, but she knew they’d never give up on her. They always thought they knew best because they were older and married. Big deal they were a bit older. Shannon just turned thirty-nine, and at thirty-four Regan was only three years older than Whitney.

Shannon nudged Regan, grinning. Tell her about Jack Hensley.

Regan shook her head. Not a good idea.

Who’s Jack? Another skydiver? Whitney asked.

He’s a paramedic and single. He’s worked with Casey, but Jack’s not a firefighter. He’s not interested in meeting you. Regan gave Whitney an apologetic shrug. Sorry. It’s a shame because Jack’s a dead ringer for Chris Pine.

Shannon raised her eyebrows. What did Casey tell Jack about Whitney?

Not enough obviously, Regan said, But I’ll—

No. Whitney put her hand on Regan’s arm. Don’t say anything. I don’t want to go out with someone who feels pressured. She grinned. Although resembling Pine might change my mind.

Regan stood. I’m going to call Casey. Jack and Casey are working this afternoon on summer camp plans for the children who are recovering from burns.

Don’t call, Whitney said. It’d be embarrassing for her brother-in-law to try again to get Jack to hook up with her.

With the receiver in her hand, Regan said, Talking to Jack is no big deal. This way you can see if you have anything in common before meeting on an awkward first date.

Whitney shook her head but Regan still went through with calling Jack.

Shannon said, You know guys have to think about stuff first before making a move. I wouldn’t take it personally that Jack didn’t immediately want to ask you out.

Her throat felt dry so she sipped her water. That’s true. And it’s not like Jack met me on his own and wasn’t interested.

Shannon grinned. You should thank me that Tim’s nerdy friend isn’t going to call you. I told Tim no way when he wanted me to give your number to him.

Before she could reply to Shannon, Regan said, Casey told Jack that you’re beautiful and intelligent. Oh yeah, you love children and might want to help with summer camp. I added that last part.

Thanks, I guess. Whitney sighed. Well, nothing like your sister using her influence on her hubby.

Regan handed the phone to her. He’s all yours.

She covered the mouthpiece. I’ll take it in the living room. After leaving the kitchen, Whitney said hello to Jack.

Hi, Whitney. I overheard what Regan said about you volunteering for camp. He laughed. Your sister’s sneaky but that’d be great if you decide to help.

She liked his deep, sexy voice. I like her suggestion.

I’ve heard a lot of great things about you from Casey.

I hope he hasn’t bored you too much. Come on. Casey told Jack that you’re intelligent, think of something better to say. I should warn you that Regan probably pressured him to tell you about me. I have two wonderful sisters, but they seem to like to decide what’s best for me.

Hey, I know what you mean. My sister is like that. He groaned. She never stops and always has someone in mind for me to meet.

She was tempted to ask Jack if he really resembled Chris Pine, but decided he might think she was only interested in him for his movie star looks. Has she introduced you to anyone recently?

Yes, the last one was a divorced friend of hers. She complained continually about her ex…oh, man, I forgot you’re a widow. I’m so sorry. You’ve had a great loss.

It’s okay. And you’re right about divorced spouses. I can’t talk about Rob to Jack. Quick, think of something to ask Jack. Movies should be a safe topic. Have you seen any good movies lately?

No, but I like to watch movies. He paused for a moment. I’m glad Casey told me about you.

I see how it is. You paramedics stick together. I guess Casey must think you’re an okay guy.

Of course, I am, he said and she heard the soft chuckle in his voice. Could you hold on for a second? A call just came in for me.

I’ll let you go.

I’ve enjoyed talking to you. Is it okay if I call you sometime?

You take your call. And I hope it’s nothing too serious. We can talk more later about camp. I’m glad we had this chat. Bye, Jack.

Goodbye, Whitney.

The line clicked dead, and Whitney turned off the handset. She stared at the silent phone, thinking how Jack had a wonderful voice. She walked back into the kitchen and put the phone back on the wall mount. Jack seems nice.

That’s great! Regan declared. I can see you two dating soon.

I don’t know if I want to jump into a date after one brief phone call.

Speaking of jumping, let’s get back to the skydiving topic, Shannon said. You know I’m practical. We’ve paid for this, so humor us and try it.

Whitney sipped her coffee, wondering how she could convince them their plan was not going to work. Jumping out of a plane was out of the question. Maybe pouring their energies into fussing over her life kept them from thinking how their mother was gone. Mom was never going to be part of their lives again, and making her risk her life wouldn’t change that.

Shannon and Regan had the right idea trying to get her involved in life again. Even though they drove her nuts sometimes, she needed her sisters more than ever. Without their meddling, she might completely lose her mind. Doing something adventuresome was a possibility. Just not skydiving. But they also needed a purpose to get closure to their mother’s death. All of them should focus on something new and fresh. Maybe working on a project together would be good for all of them, and a great thought occurred to her.

"Okay this is the deal. I might sometime go skydiving, but first I need you two to consider something I want us to do together. And I’m serious about it. I don’t want to hear any excuses."

It doesn’t sound like something you’re springing on us just because of the skydiving, Regan said with a thoughtful look.

Shannon’s hazel eyes widened. I can’t imagine what you want us to do.

Pushing her plate away from her, Whitney rested her arms on the table. I don’t want to go back to New York to be a producer again, you know that. I’m not the same person any more. It doesn’t interest me but…

Regan glanced at Shannon. This is where we come in to help our little sister.

Whitney sighed. That’s one way to look at it.

Spit it out, Shannon urged.

Whitney grinned at the obvious interest in both their faces, even if Regan attempted to feign indifference. Enjoying her moment of having them on the spot, she stood and headed to the coffeepot. Would either of you like more coffee?

Both chimed in together, No.

Whitney refilled her cup and carried it to the table, sitting again before she finally said, I think we should go into business together.

Doing what? Shannon asked.

I don’t know. But I thought we can discuss ideas that might interest us.

I’m not sure I can devote enough time to a full-time business. Shannon frowned. With the classes I teach during the week at the university, I don’t have any free time. Nights won’t work either because Tim has to leave after dinner a few times a week to go back to school. And I want to be home when Caitlyn and Brandon aren’t at school. I don’t want them to get into trouble.

They’re good kids, Whitney said.

Shannon shrugged. I know but they’re teenagers.

Her sister’s feelings didn’t surprise her. Shannon had said before that parents assumed teenagers could fend for themselves but they were wrong. If she wasn’t home, Caitlyn’s boyfriend might decide to spend more time at their house, or they’d experiment with drugs and get into the wrong crowd.

Whitney leaned closer to Shannon, understanding her need to keep an eye on her kids. "We can put Caitlyn and Brandon to work. I know Brandon’s only thirteen, but I can see him contributing in some way