A Family of Their Own(19)

“That’s why I came to you, I suppose.”

Ethan leaned against his desk, resting a hand on the top. “Do you like Kelsey enough to work at it? You can learn how to share time, and maybe Lucy and Peyton could become friends. They both—”

“That’s the problem. Peyton won’t let it happen.”

“Ahh.” Ethan slipped onto the desktop and leaned forward. “So that’s it.” A frown settled on his face. “And they’ve only been together once, right?”

He nodded.

Ethan flung his hands upward. “You’ve said Peyton struggles with friendships at school. She hasn’t clicked with the kids. You know how people are. She’s not trusting yet. Give her time. Plan another event.”

“I’m not sure Lucy will want to spend time with her again.”

“Don’t look for problems. Lucy’s a great kid. She and Cooper are friends, and they go at each other when it comes to games. Lucy’s determined to win, but they’re still buddies. It may take a while for the girls to bond. Lucy and Cooper have been friends since Lexie met Kelsey. That was some time ago.”

Ross tried to digest what Ethan was saying. He made some good points. “I need to think of something that’s nonthreatening or competitive.”

“How about going to a movie and afterward stopping for ice cream? They’ll be together but nothing challenging. No need for a lot of conversation.”

Ross chuckled. “Unless it’s picking out a movie.”

“Okay, but you can always put ideas in a hat and let them draw. Then it’s no one’s idea.”

Ethan’s good humor gave Ross hope. He grinned as he rose. “Great idea. Thanks.”

“Anytime.” Ethan slippedd from the desk and slid his arm around Ross’s shoulders. “I suppose Kelsey told you I was irked at Lexie when she advised her not to get too involved with you.”

His back tightened. “No, she didn’t.”

“Oops.” His arm dropped to his side. “I assumed she did. Lexie feared exactly what you’re talking about. How can two people with sick kids find time for another person?”

Ross nodded his head. At least he wasn’t the only one to question the situation.

“But I saw it differently. I think the two of you deserve some fun and companionship other than with your kids.” He squeezed Ross’s shoulder. “For the reasons I mentioned.”

“Thanks for the vote of confidence.” He extended his hand and Ethan gave it a squeeze.

When he stepped into the hallway, though a weight remained on his shoulders, his step felt lighter.



“What do you think about the movie idea?”

Kelsey gazed at Ross’s eyes filled with hope. Her chest constricted, thinking of the pleading she would have to do. “Let me check with Lucy, okay?”

His head lowered as if studying the carpet of her living room. “I understand. If I were Lucy, I wouldn’t want to spend time with Peyton, either.”

“Ross.” She reached across the space and grasped his hand. “Peyton’s a sweet girl, but she’s been rejected so often she’s put up barriers. Even adults do that.”

He nodded, but the discouraged look remained on his face. “I’m baffled.” His pleading gaze searched hers. “I’ve talked with her and tried to explain that she has to reach out to people. She can’t.”

“She can. It takes time. Everything’s in God’s time. I’ve heard you say that yourself.”

A grin crept to his lips. “Easy to say but hard to follow.”

“I know, but trust. Friendships take time to build.” Her pulse skipped. Some friendships never happened. They both knew that. “Let me see what Lucy says.”

She strode to the doorway and down the short hallway to Lucy’s bedroom. “Can I come in?” She tapped on the door.

The door swung open. “I’m doing homework.”

She rested her hand on Lucy’s shoulder and kissed her cheek. “You’re my A-1 daughter.”

Lucy rolled her eyes. “I’m your only daughter, Mom.”

“But if I had two, you’d be my A-1.”

Her nose wrinkled but a grin appeared. “Is Ross here?”

“He is.” She motioned toward the room, and Lucy stepped aside for her to enter. When Lucy faced her, Kelsey closed the door. “Ross wondered if you’d be willing to go to a movie with them.”