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Emmie watched as her daughters embraced one another, and then Gemma came to her for a hug.

“ ’Bye, Mom. Have fun. And remember, once the restaurant reopens, we’ll want to welcome you back.”

“Let me know how you make out finding a house.”

As Gemma said goodbye to Rick, Emmie turned to Tony. He came from an affectionate family, and hugging had become normal between them.

Tony and Rick shook hands, and then Emmie walked Gemma and Tony to the door.

She watched them get into their car and back out of the driveway. As they drove away, Emmie thought of her family and wondered what life with a fourteen-year-old boy looked like. Tanner had made it seem easy.

Emmie promised Rick and Lauren that she’d help them with Clark if he was extra fussy during the night, and then she headed upstairs to bed.

Her cell phone rang. She knew who it was before she even picked up the call. Kate.

“So, what did you think? Isn’t Tanner nice?” Kate asked.

“He seemed very solid, very kind, but I don’t think I got much more than a glimpse of who he really is. There seemed to be some kind of invisible wall around him.”

“I know what you mean. I just think he’s very guarded when introduced to an eligible woman. I know others in the office have introduced him to friends, as well.”

“Any reaction from him?” asked Emmie.

“Honestly, not much of one,” Kate admitted. “He left shortly after you did, thanked us for dinner, and told Brad he’d see him in the office on Monday.”

“I like how he cares for his son,” Emmie said. “Aside from that, I feel as if I know very little about him.”

“He is self-contained,” said Kate. “But I think he’s worth getting to know better.”

“If he even bothers to call.”

“Oh, I think he will,” said Kate. “I saw him watching you when you weren’t looking. I have to admit, being a decent single guy in a small town must be quite a challenge with everyone looking to find him dates.”

Emmie chuckled. “You’re right. Poor guy.”

“We’ll see what happens,” said Kate. “I wanted to give you a chance to meet him. That’s all I can do. The rest is up to fate and the two of you.”

“True,” said Emmie. “Talk to you later.” She ended the call and lay back against her pillows. Who knew what lay ahead? Especially when she had mixed emotions about dating.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

The next week was hectic as Lauren and Rick decided to return to their condo. Lauren was due to visit the doctor. She was feeling much stronger, and she and Rick had worked out a routine to care for Clark that satisfied them both.

After they left, Emmie went through all the baby equipment they left behind and found places for it. Lauren had left some of her items in the guest room for future visits.

With the three of them gone, the house creaked and groaned, filling the silence. Emmie understood that the house that had seemed alive was now feeling very empty.

Busy at work, Emmie was relieved to return home in the evenings. Even though it was quiet, the memories of having a baby in the house again were enough to ease her back into her old routines.

She was surprised when Tanner called.

“Hi, Emmie. I know last-minute arrangements can be problematic, but I’m wondering if you would go out with me tomorrow night? I’m thinking of trying a Thai restaurant and would love your company.”

“That sounds delightful,” said Emmie. “The kids are gone from the house, and it’s been a bit lonely.”

“Well, then, in this case, the timing is perfect,” said Tanner smoothly. “Why don’t I pick you up at seven? Does that suit you?”

“Yes, that’ll be fine. Thank you. I’m looking forward to it,” she said, thankful to have plans after such a quiet week.