Page 44 of Luke

“You’re not.” He grabbed her wrist, then leaned down and kissed her. “Go get warmed up. I’ll see you in a little while.”

“Okay.” Bryce hurried out of the kitchen to follow Lisa.

They climbed the stairs, and Lisa showed her to the spare bedroom. She saw Leah in her seat and walked toward her as she looked around the room.

“This is beautiful, Lisa. You’re so kind to allow me to stay.”

“Nonsense. There’s no way I’d let you and Luke leave in this weather. Especially, with that baby.”

“Yes, ma’am. I’m just not used to people being so kind.”

“That’s about all you’ll find in Clifton, Spring City, and Hartland.”

Bryce smiled. “I’m beginning to realize that.”

Lisa hugged her. “The bath is through that door. Take your time. What woman doesn’t love a long, hot soak in a jacuzzi tub?”

“Jacuzzi? Oh, you just sealed the deal in me staying.” Bryce laughed.

Lisa grinned. “Soak as long as you’d like. Leah will be fine. In fact, I’ll take her downstairs so you can use the jacuzzi.”

Bryce blinked back tears. “Thank you,” she whispered.

Lisa hugged her again. “Honey, I don’t know what’s going onwith you and the father of Leah, but I know something is. You’re safe here.”

Bryce wrapped her arms around her and sobbed.

“Is everything alright?” Luke asked.

Bryce looked at him as she wiped tears from her cheeks.

“Yes. I’m going to relax in that tub and your mom is going to take Leah downstairs.”

“Okay. I’m going to grab a shower.” Luke stared at her for a few seconds, then moved out of the doorway and disappeared to his room.

Bryce looked at Lisa. “I’ll tell you all about it soon. Thank you. Your sons are amazing men, and I can see why. You and Daniel are wonderful.”

“Go get in the tub. I’ll get some clothes and be right back.”

Bryce nodded, entered the bathroom and gasped at the large jacuzzi tub. She turned the water on and got it to the right temperature when Lisa knocked on the door.

“Here you go. You might have to roll up the legs a little. I’m a little taller than you.” Lisa smiled.

Bryce took the clothes, set them on the sink counter, and looked at Lisa.

“Thank you.”

“You are very welcome. You can come downstairs whenever you’re ready. No need to hurry.” Lisa pulled the door closed as she left.

Bryce quickly stripped, stepped into the tub and groaned at how good it felt. She sat forward, pushed a button and the jets started, making her grin. She leaned against the back of the tub and closed her eyes. She just hoped she didn’t fall asleep, she thought with a smile.

Chapter Seven

Luke entered the diner, and saw a lot of patrons, and couldn’t help but shake his head in amazement. Nothing could stop people from indulging in a good burger. He was sure everyone was out and about after last week’s weather. He took a seat at the counter and Connie greeted him.

“Hey there, Luke. What can I get for you?”

“The usuals for me and Bryce, to go, please.”

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