home for over ten years and eight books. And as a reader, for many years before that.
I have to thank so many people. The editors for letting me finish this series. That means so much to me. My fellow authors, who have given me friendship and guidance. And mostly all of you Superromance readers, who bought, read and love my stories and characters as much, if not more, than I do.
I’ll never forget any of you, and I hope our paths cross again. Please visit my website at angelsmits.com for the latest developments in the next stage of my writing journey. I’ll look for you there—and on the bookshelves of the future.
Angel Smits
The entire A Chair at the Hawkins Table series has been about siblings. And I’m lucky to have two very special ones of my own.
This is dedicated to Jeff Strong and April Wilkerson. I love you both, and am so glad you’re a part of my life. Thank you.
And to Ron. You always believe.
Contents
ADDIE HAWKINS STOOD next to her car, letting the remaining heat of the day wash over her. The Someday Café’s parking lot was nearly full, and from here, she could see the lobby was overflowing. Standing room only. Hopefully, they weren’t violating any fire code.
Addie was so proud of Tara. Her little sister had grown into a competent, beautiful young woman. Tara’s diner had nearly been destroyed in last month’s flooding. But she’d survived; she’d rebuilt, and tonight was the grand reopening.
Taking a deep breath, Addie turned to grab the baker’s box from the backseat of her car. Her special chocolate chip peanut butter cookies were nestled inside. It was a peace offering as well as a grand opening—uh, reopening—gift.
Tara had asked for the recipe, but Addie hadn’t been ready to share it then. She still wasn’t. This was a compromise.
“Please tell me that box is for me.” Her brother DJ’s voice came from behind her.
“Not a chance.” She smiled and almost took pity on him when she turned to face him and saw his smile fade. “These are Tara’s. You might be able to sweet-talk her out of one.”
“One?” He grimaced. “That’s lame.”
They walked toward the entrance together. “Where’s Tammie?” Her sister-in-law was in the last trimester of her pregnancy, and she
