Looking for Mr. Right, Page 2

  Chapter 3

  Cynthia adjusted the stack of papers spread out on the picnic table and laid a book on the stack to secure it She enjoyed Maddy's deck. It was a wonderful place to grade papers, so much nicer than her tiny patio back home. She had been here a little over a month and she was missing her family and friends more than she'd expected. It seemed the majority of her free time had been spent on the phone or answering emails. Beca and her mom had obviously spread the word to everyone in town and Cynthia was receiving calls constantly. She had considered shutting her phone off or getting a new number but then thought otherwise. Everyone would be arriving on her doorstep if they couldn’t contact her via phone. She didn't need a ton of visitors, not yet.

  The new school was nice, smaller than the one back home, but the staff and teachers were helpful and friendly. She felt at home almost immediately. She'd even amazed herself at how fast she'd adjusted. Most of her Saturday nights were spent working on class outlines or reading a good novel. If she got too lonely she'd just call Beca and talk until one of their cell phones went dead. She was happy with her 'no men' decision, she needed to get out of that dating rut at least for a few months.

  "Good 'morning neighbor," someone yelled across the hedge. "Everything okay your way?"

  "Fine," she called back. Before she knew it Jack had jumped over the hedge and was

  standing on her patio in the best fitting pair of jeans she'd seen since the day she'd moved in.

  "Schoolwork?" he questioned.

  "Papers to grade," she said as she reached for her coffee cup. She glanced up at Jack. Why did she always manage to run upon the hunks in the world? It didn't matter. There was a Mrs. Dawson somewhere but after a month she was yet to meet her. She'd only seen her once and it was not close enough to even say hello.

  "How's things going at school?" he inquired flopping down beside her on the bench and stretching out his long legs in front of him.

  "Fine. I have a wonderful group of students and the teachers are so nice. They've really made me feel at home," Cynthia smiled.

  "And, has it worked? Do you feel at home here?" he asked.

  "I do, but I'm missing my family and friends back home," she added.

  "I bet you miss your fiancé?" Jack grinned.

  "Well, uh, yes. We talk all the time and email each other daily," she felt awful about telling him she was engaged but she'd just blurted it out before she knew he was married. Even worse she'd told the teachers at school the same lie. They were always asking about David. Unfortunately that name was the first one that came to mind and she'd broken up with him a couple of months ago so he was the first one who popped into her head.

  "I've got to go. I'm putting up a playhouse for Halley this afternoon."

  "Cool. I know she will love it!" Cynthia said.

  "I know I spoil her but since her mother's death…."his voice trailed off as he glanced off into Cynthia's backyard.

  Cynthia drew in a breath! His wife was dead. She'd been sure he was married. Crap - he was available. Good thing she'd told him she was engaged.

  "Oh, I didn't know. I am so sorry," Cynthia said drawing in a deep breath. "It's tough being a single dad with a little one."

  "It can be but Halley is a life saver. She keeps me too busy to think," he added, with a troubled look. "Of course, I'm always trying to stay a step ahead of Kate."

  "And, Kate, is?" Cynthia asked

  "My wife's mother, Halley's grandmother. She blames me for Judith's car accident and she thinks I've been a failure as a father to Halley," he added.

  "I'm sorry, Jack. Is there anything I can do to help?" she asked him.

  "No. I appreciate the offer but just letting Halley come over and play with your little dog helps. She needs female attention other than her grandmother. A young female is perfect."

  Cynthia's face felt hot. "I don't mind her coming over anytime. I enjoy her company. She is awfully quiet though," Cynthia hesitated giving him a chance to comment on his daughter's behavior.

  "She's been like that since the accident. Of course, Kate blames me for that, too. She feels Halley should be in counseling; but the pediatrician feels she just needs love and a lot of attention. I agree with the doctor. I think love and attention will help Halley pull out of her shell on her own. I don't want to subject her to more doctors and questions," Jack said.

  "I respect your feelings. I don't understand why her grandmother doesn't support you on this."

  "Well, Kate is used to being in control. She ruled Judith with an iron hand and until Judith's death she pretty much controlled Halley, too. She is the head of a large law firm in Little Rock and since her husband's death she has taken over the company. Since money has never been an issue with her she thinks she can control everyone with money. She's offered to pay for Halley's counseling but money isn't an issue. I can afford it. I just don't think that's what Halley needs. Since you've moved in I've noticed a change in her. I think being around you is helping her."

  "Really. I didn't know about Halley's problem. She barely says two words to me when she's over but she chatters away to Bella," Cynthia smiled. "Thanks for telling me Jack. I'll do all I can to help you with her."

  "Let me know if she gets to be a pest. Every time she sees you on the patio or in the yard she starts begging to come over."

  "Halley could never be a pest to me," Cynthia assured him. "She's welcome anytime."

  ****

  Cynthia had grown to love her new life and she was constantly amused by her new class of six year olds. Whenever one would share an incident from home she would smile and remember a parent who once told her - if you promise not to believe what my daughter says happens at home I'll promise not to believe what she says happens at school. Six year olds were totally awesome, in fact, she'd thought about writing a book about her adventures in teaching.

  She had finally met Jack's mother-in-law, Kate, and her dominating personality was obvious and overbearing. She came across as a woman who was accustomed to having it her way. Cynthia wasn't surprised that she and Jack locked horns, especially over Halley.

  "Ms. Bowling, have you seen my little Halley this morning?" Kate called from Jack's driveway.

  Cynthia was reading a letter she'd received from her former boyfriend David. Her make-believe fiancé. She looked across the yard and saw Kate's mercedes parked in his driveway. She was standing on Jack's front porch, the engine of her car still running.

  "I think they were going to Little Rock to do some Christmas shopping today," Cynthia called back.

  "Harmph, I suppose Jack shared that with you?" she questioned with a disgusted scowl on her face.

  "No, Halley came over this morning to see if I could go with them."

  "I see. Jack knew I was taking Halley out to dinner this evening and to a Christmas play at the Children's theatre. Heavens knows the child is in need of a taste of the finer things in life."

  "I know Halley will be sorry she missed the play. It sounds like fun!" Cynthia tried to be upbeat and lighten their exchange.

  "She needs exposure to the arts and fine dining. My Judith always enjoyed those things growing up and I intend to give Halley the same opportunities. Jack is hardly able to support himself," she mumbled under her breath.

  "Jack and Halley have a wonderful relationship and I think Halley is adjusting well under the circumstances," Cynthia wanted Kate to know she supported Jack.

  "Little do you know," Kate replied as she tossed her designer purse across the car seat. "If you see Jack later tell him I came over and he will be hearing from me."

  Her car shot down the street leaving Cynthia shaking her head. Poor Jack and Halley. That woman is a witch!

  Chapter 4

  By 7 o'clock Cynthia hadn't been able to get that scene with Kate out of her head. It kept running over and over like a bad dream. The last time she'd looked next-door Jack's jeep wasn't back and she had decided
he didn't need to hear about Kate's visit from her. She was certain he would get an ear full from Kate. Probably just in time to ruin a good nights sleep for him.

  She closed her blinds and settled into Maddy's rocking chair. She needed a cup of hot chocolate and a good novel to keep her company on this Saturday evening. One benefit of swearing off men was she could put on her comfortable sweats and kick back. She had no one to impress this evening. If she were back in Miami Beca would be encouraging her to go out with one of her male friends. Beca had a good heart and she meant well but she was a natural born matchmaker. She was convinced a single woman had to have a man in her life in order to be happy. Beca and Cynthia's mother were hell bent on finding her a husband.

  She was only twenty-six years old and women got married and had babies later in life then when her mother married her dad. Times were changing.

  It was barely past 9 o'clock when the phone rang. Cynthia glanced at the caller id. She didn't recognize the number. "Hello," she answered cautiously.

  "C, is that you?" a slurred voice spoke into her ear.

  The only person who ever called her C was David. "Yes, how did you get my number here?" Cynthia was annoyed.

  "I called your mom," he mumbled.

  "And she gave it to you?" Cynthia frowned. Her mother liked that jerk. She was convinced they were a perfect match. If only she knew what a rat he really was.

  "C, are you there?" he repeated.

  "Don't call me that!" her annoyance evident in her tone. "What do you want, it's past 9 o'clock."

  "So what? Remember when we stayed out past midnight on Saturdays?" he was blubbering.

  "Are you drunk?" she was almost shouting into the phone.

  "Naw, maybe a little."

  "Why'd you call anyway?" she asked.

  "I want to come visit for Christmas."

  "Are you crazy and drunk? I came here to get away from men. Anyway I'm working during the holiday. You can't come. I'll be busy."

  "So there are no men there?" he asked sarcastically.

  "Of course, there are men here, but everyone knows I'm not available," she was emphatic in her reply. The other end of the phone line went dead. "David, are you there?" Waiting a few seconds, she tossed the phone on the coffee table. He probably passed out. I just hope he doesn't do something stupid and come here anyway.

  Cynthia crawled into bed and pulled the patchwork quilt up to her chin. She was still staring at the ceiling past midnight and she had parent-teacher conferences beginning Monday. What a weekend to get insomnia. She made a promise to herself she would go over in the morning and talk to Jack.

  She reached up and pressed the doorbell. Glancing at her watch, she hoped it wasn't too early for visitors on Sunday morning. The door opened slowly. Jack stood in the doorway, his hair tousled, his jeans unbuttoned at the top obviously surprised to have a morning guest. He stepped back and motioned for her to enter.

  "I'm sorry. I've gotten you up. I'll come back over after while," she stepped back down the steps.

  "What time is it anyway?" he glanced at his wrist. "Forgot my watch."

  "It's 8:05," Cynthia said.

  "Come on in. I need a cup of coffee. How 'bout you?" he asked as he headed down the hall toward his kitchen.

  "I'd love a cup," she trotted behind him. Staring at his tight fitting jeans she felt that all too familiar warm feeling invading her body.

  Jack grabbed two blue coffee mugs and filled them with coffee. Sliding one in front of her he asked, "What brings you over so early on a Sunday morning neighbor?"

  "Kate."

  "Kate?" he seemed surprised as he repeated her name.

  "Did she call you yet?"

  "Well, not today," he said, "Was she supposed to?"

  "She dropped by yesterday looking for Halley." After Cynthia had recounted her encounter with Kate, Jack was staring at her in disbelief.

  "Damn, I'm not too surprised at anything she says or does lately. She is out to get me. Actually she's more determined to get Halley. I just happen to be in her way."

  "I'm sorry Jack. I just wanted to give you a heads up to expect a call. From the mood she was in when she left yesterday I don't think it will be pleasant."

  "I don't imagine it will. I forgot she had plans with Halley but she will never believe it. She'll think I took her shopping to spite her." He finished his second cup of coffee and sat the empty cup in the sink. "I sometimes think she might be right. Halley needs the stability she could provide. I do have to travel some on business."

  "Don't let her come between you and Halley. You’re a wonderful dad. Halley adores you," Cynthia assured him. "Maybe she could provide more material things but you give her love and attention. All the money in the world can't buy that."

  "Thanks Cynthia. I needed a pep talk. If you weren't an engaged woman, I'd ask you out," he winked, his sense of humor coming back.

  She hated herself for lying to Jack and all her new friends. She would love to come clean right now but what would he think of her. Her mother had always told her one lie leads to another and it just gets worse.

  "What was his name again?" Jack questioned.

  "Huh, my fiance? David," Cynthia seemed distracted.

  "Did you know your fiancé is actually quite a celebrity around our little town? I've heard some people think he is a virtual superman!"

  "I can't keep people from talking," she replied.

  "No, but you could fess up," he said.

  "Fess up? What does that mean?"

  "It means I think your David is a figment of your creative imagination."

  "You actually think I've made him up?" she seemed surprised at his comment.

  "Yes, in a word, I do."

  "But why would I do that?"

  "I don't have a clue. Just a gut feeling," he winked.

  "I'm disappointed in you. To think a respected little ole school teacher like me would lie!"

  "Okay, okay, let's say David is real. Where is your engagement ring?" He leaned back against the sink waiting for her reply.

  "My ring? Oh, yes, the ring. It just so happens David is having his grandmother's ring reset for me," she finished breathless.

  "Have you ever considered taking up creative writing?" covering his mouth with his hand to cover a grin.

  "I'm going home!" Cynthia moved between Jack and the table. You can be so aggravating."

  She heard him laughing as she slammed the front door.

  Chapter 5

  To: Beca

  From: Cynthia

  Hey, I miss you! I think my next-door neighbor is on to me. Remember when I told you he thinks I'm engaged? Don't say it, I should know not to lie but it just slipped out. He asked me today where my engagement ring was and I had to tell him it was David's grandmother's ring and it needed to be reset for me.

  I'm ready for the teacher exchange program to end. I can't wait till I get home. I miss our chats and Saturday evening pizza parties. Promise you won't try to set me up with anyone the minute I get home.

  Talk to you soon.

  Cynthia

  Cynthia hit the send button and waited. The phone rang while she was grabbing a hand full of candy kisses. She popped a couple of the candies into her mouth and snapped open her cell phone.

  "Hello Beca."

  "Are you eating?" Beca asked.

  "Yes, chocolates." she admitted.

  "Things must be bad over there. Didn't you swear off chocolate?" her friend asked.

  "No! Men not chocolate. You know very well I didn't swear off edible goodies."

  "How much longer before you stop this crazy charade and come clean with everybody?"

  "I'll be coming home on Easter break." Cynthia assured her friend. "Why don’t you come over for Christmas? We could catch up on things and you could meet my neighbor."

  "Why would I want to meet him, you saw him first?"

  "I'm not intereste
d in Jack but I think he'd be perfect for you." Cynthia shot back.

  "You do, do you?" she asked. "I've actually met a really nice guy right after you deserted me."

  "Deserted you? I did no such thing. You know why I accepted this exchange teaching position. I was trying to break my relationship addiction."

  "I know, I know. I would dearly love to see you. Let me check my Christmas week schedule. I'll get back to you. I think I might be able to get away at least for the New Years weekend. That would be like last year."

  The two women had spent the past New Year's Eve together watching old movies and munching on unhealthy goodies, making plans and resolutions for the coming year.

  "That sounds great. I do miss you Beca. If you come over for New Years you can go with me to Jack's open house."

  "Cool, I'm anxious to meet him, not for my self, but he sounds perfect for you," her friend was matchmaking long-distance style.

  "No, no, I'm not interested, whatever would my fiancé say?" Cynthia laughed.

  "You are too much! I'll call you soon," Beca hung up the phone.

  "Bye," Cynthia smiled as she snapped her cell phone shut. It was going to be a great holiday.

  By Monday morning the temperatures had taken an unexpected nosedive and to make matters worse a few snowflakes had begun to fall. Cynthia had only packed a couple of sweaters since living in Miami she hardly ever needed a warm wrap. She hoped the inclement weather wouldn't cause any travel scheduling problems. She was so excited to have Beca come for a visit. It would seem almost like being back home for the holidays.

  Parent-teacher conferences were scheduled to begin this morning and then Christmas break would be upon them. She was anxious to meet her student's parents. It always helped to get an idea of the children's home life. She had a couple of students who had issues and she had a pretty good idea their home life wasn't stellar. Meeting their parents would give her some insight into how to handle the little ones. She was glad she'd minored in child psychology in college.

  She pulled the soft blue cashmere sweater over her head shaking out her long blond hair and pulling it back in a low ponytail at the base of her neck. Since swearing off men she had lost of sense of style. She hadn't worn a skirt in four months and since she wasn't trying to impress anyone of the opposite sex she opted for the sweat shirt and jogging pants look.