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Stand-In Father
As temporary guardian to his twin baby nieces, William Barns barely knows a diaper from a burp cloth. The well-meaning but meddling neighbor ladies suggest a wife—namely Emily Jane Rodgers. Although William isn’t in the market for a bride, he needs a loving woman to watch over the children, and Emily Jane fits the bill nicely.
Emily Jane agrees to care for William’s nieces—not become his betrothed. Fully determined to find her own way in life and to open her own bakery, Emily Jane isn’t looking for a husband. But no matter how hard she resists, Emily Jane is roped in by the twins’ little hugs and William’s tender regard. And soon she longs to be a permanent part of this ready-made family…
“I hope I haven’t kept you waiting,” William said, giving Emily Jane a hand up onto the wagon.
“Not at all. I needed to visit a little while with Beth anyway.” She sat down and then turned and kissed each twin.
They giggled and tried to get her hat.
William pulled himself up beside her. As he took the reins he asked, “New hat?”
“Beth loaned it to me.”
He smiled over at her. “It’s very pretty on you.”
A compliment? She felt a little uneasy.
A soft laugh drifted from his side of the wagon seat. “We’re friends, Emily Jane. No need to get all nervous about a compliment.”
How had he known? She cut her eyes under the hat to look at his profile. Was it possible that over the past few weeks they’d grown so close that they knew what each other was thinking? If so, that was dangerous. Maybe after today she should put some distance between herself and William. From her experience with people, those who could read each other’s minds and expressions seemed to be in love. She wasn’t ready for love.
Yes, distance after today would be the best solution for them both.
RHONDA GIBSON lives in New Mexico with her husband, James. She has two children and three beautiful grandchildren. Reading is something she has enjoyed her whole life and writing stemmed from that love. When she isn’t writing or reading, she enjoys gardening, beading and playing with her dog, Sheba. You can visit her at rhondagibson.net. Rhonda hopes her writing will entertain, encourage and bring others closer to God.
The Texan’s Twin Blessings
Rhonda Gibson
Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!
—Isaiah 43:18–19
Tina James, thank you for always believing in my stories and trusting me to get them written on time. James Gibson, your love means more to me than you will ever know. Thank you for keeping the midnight oil burning so that I can find my way after a long night of writing. And as always, thank You, Heavenly Father, for giving me my heart’s desires.
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