1225 Christmas Tree Lane - Debbie Macomber [53]
Teri took the basket out of Beth’s arms. “Thank you so much for bringing over the puppy.”
“I was happy to,” Beth said. “I know this little girl will have a wonderful home, so thank you.”
“Our pleasure,” Christie murmured.
James kissed her forehead. “Merry Christmas, my love,” he said again. “I thought we could name her Chessie.”
“Chessie! Of course.” Christie laughed.
“You’ll get your gift later,” she promised in a husky voice.
James turned three shades of red. “I’ll hold you to that,” he said. “Now come and meet your dog.”
Chapter 15
After dropping off the puppy at the Polgars’, Beth headed back to her house on Christmas Tree Lane. She’d enjoyed her brief visit with Bobby and Teri and James and Christie. The two couples were obviously devoted to one another. Watching them all working together, assembling toys for the triplets, reminded Beth of those early years with Kent. Finances had been tight back then, but they’d managed; their happiness had more than compensated for the luxuries they’d done without. She missed those times, and yes, she missed Kent, too.
On the way home Beth felt empty inside. For three years she’d pretended she was happy. Pretended she’d rather live her life without Kent. It’d all been a lie.
And now it was too late.
The girls would be getting ready for evening services at the church and the three of them would arrive together. Kent had said he might attend, as well, but she knew he’d sit with Danielle, not with Beth and the girls. That made sense, but it was another blow she wasn’t ready to deal with.
While waiting at a red light, she saw the open sign at Mocha Mama’s. Because she didn’t want to return home until she’d regained control of her emotions, she decided to go in. Stopping for a quick cup of coffee would give her a chance to sort through her feelings, to better understand what was happening and accept the reality that she had lost Kent for good. The life they’d once had was truly over.
She pulled into a parking space and turned off the engine. Sitting in the car, she pressed her hand over her eyes as unfamiliar and unwelcome emotions swirled through her. This Christmas was nothing like she’d anticipated. For weeks she’d looked forward to her children’s visit. She’d carefully planned events, shopped, wrapped gifts, cooked their favorite meals. What she realized now was that she’d done it for Kent, too. Since he was coming to Cedar Cove for the holiday, she’d wanted to remind him of what they’d had. Of everything that was gone now, but could…perhaps…be recovered. She hadn’t even acknowledged this to herself. Not really.
What made it all so impossible was Danielle. Facing the ghosts of Christmas past, back when she and Kent were so much in love, only depressed her now.
When Beth entered the coffee shop, she saw that it was nearly deserted. A teenager stood behind the counter, playing a handheld game. He didn’t seem to notice he had a customer.
“Hello! I’d like a decaf Americano,” she said briskly.
Startled, the kid glanced up. He blinked and reluctantly set aside his game. “Anything else?”
“No, thanks.” She paid, adding a nice Christmas tip, and waited for her coffee.
A couple of minutes later he delivered it in a to-go cup, which was fine, although she wasn’t in any rush to leave. Carrying it with her, she chose a table by the window, one that overlooked Harbor Street.
She gazed out at the serene and yet festive view of the town’s main street. Garlands were strung across it. Silver bells dangled from the lampposts, and the town had never seemed more inviting. A light dusting of snow glistened on the large Christmas tree, which blinked red and green lights, outside city hall, while Christmas carols were broadcast from the bell tower.
“I wondered if that was your car outside.”
Stunned by the familiar voice, Beth turned. Kent stood next to her small table, although she hadn’t seen him come in.
“What are you doing here?” she asked breathlessly.
“I decided to take a drive—”
“Where’s your friend? Danielle?” she interrupted.
“At