Tamera’s smile sobered. “Is it serious between you and Deena?”
“No.” At least he could answer that question honestly.
“That’s not what the tabloids say.” John leaned against the porch rail.
“Don’t believe them.” The paparazzi had become the bane of his existence. He’d caught them waiting outside the school, church, anywhere he went. He didn’t want to jinx it, but he was surprised they hadn’t shown up at the house yet.
“I don’t know Deena well, and if you like her, then I’m happy for you.” Tamera paused, opened and then closed her mouth a moment before saying more. “The thing is, I can’t stop thinking that you and Phoebe should be together.”
“It’s not going to happen, Tam. Sorry to disappoint.” Who was more disappointed? Him or his family?
“Either way, if you’re happy and with the person God wants you to be with, then I’m happy, too.”
Why’d she have to go and throw that clause in there? How could Deena be “the one” if she didn’t have a relationship with Christ? He tried not to think about it, but his conscience wouldn’t let it rest. For now, he justified the relationship by claiming it wasn’t serious—that much was true.
He enjoyed spending time with Deena, but he didn’t feel a spark. He hadn’t told anyone this—it was too personal—but they hadn’t kissed. Deena often insinuated that they should, but something held him back. Shouldn’t he want to kiss her? She was gorgeous, elegant, and every man’s dream, yet he couldn’t muster any physical attraction to her.
Eventually, he’d have to examine what that meant. Not today, though. Today, he planned to enjoy the day being with his family.
And Deena.
“Let’s go in,” he suggested, ending the conversation about his love life.
“How’s Dad today?” Tamera clasped her hands in front of her, hope in her eyes.
“Great.” As he shared the good news, a weight lifted from Mac’s chest. “You’ll notice a vast improvement from last week. His speech is almost perfect, and he hasn’t been using the walker or cane except in the evening.”
“That’s incredible.” Audible relief whooshed from her. “Has he done anything differently?”
Mac shook his head. “Not physically, but his attitude has changed. Mom and I think getting out, returning to church, and seeing friends has renewed his faith and determination.”
“That’s wonderful.”
They entered the house, went through the foyer and into the den.
Tamera walked over to their dad and gave him a big hug. “Happy Thanksgiving, Daddy.”
“Happy Thanksgiving, Tam,” Dad said without a struggle.
Standing back, Mac watched Tamera glow. Seeing their dad’s rapid recovery was good for her. She and John had been through a lot this fall, and Mac enjoyed seeing them on the other side of the struggle.
After chatting with their dad for five minutes, Tamera left to find their mom.
Mac sat on the sofa, and John sat on the other end bouncing Mercy on his lap.
A large balloon in the shape of a cartoon character floated across the television screen, stealing Mac’s attention. “You’re watching the parade?”
Dad smiled. The right corner of his mouth didn’t go as high as it once did, but it was a full smile nonetheless. “The game doesn’t start for another hour.”
“Ahh.” He settled in with no intention of moving until Deena showed up.
He wouldn’t dream of stepping foot in the kitchen. Mom would shoo him out with and not allow him the pleasure of sneaking a piece of turkey. In a few hours, he might be able to bribe her into a piece of the crispy, golden skin if he sweet talked her. Or, more likely, if he snuck in while she was out of the room.
His phone vibrated in his pocket. He slipped it out and read the message from Deena. —Won’t make it today. Caught a flight to L.A. and spending the day with friends. I’ll be back tomorrow. Raincheck?
He blew out a long breath. Who canceled Thanksgiving plans through a text message? Though her timing and method were rude, he couldn’t blame her. This was a day to spend with friends and family, neither of which Deena had in Jasper Lake.
She has you.
