Annie's Rainbow - Fern Michaels [123]
“I thought I needed a grown-up invite. Okay, okay, I’m staying. I’ll leave in the morning. Was that a bona fide job offer?”
“Yes, it was.”
“Then I accept.”
“You do! That’s great, Clay.”
“Woof.”
Annie giggled as she nuzzled the little ball of fur next to her neck. How sweet he smelled. How soft and warm.
“Are we ready?” Daisy whispered.
“We’re ready. Now remember, you have to make your wish, then blow out every candle. You can’t tell anyone what that wish is. I’m going to turn out the light. We’ll sing ‘Happy Birthday’ and then you blow out the candles. After the cake you get to open your presents.”
Jane turned out the light. Everyone sang with gusto, the dogs howling right along with the off-key singing.
“Blow, honey!”
“Yay!” everyone said as they clapped hands. Jane turned on the light. “Can Jake have cake, Clay?”
“Absolutely. I’ll have a big piece.”
“Can I save mine for later, Mommy? Can I open my presents while the big people eat their cake?”
“I don’t see why not,” Elmo said. “You go ahead and start to open the ones with all the pretty wrappings and ribbons. I’ll fetch mine and Annie’s presents from the garage.”
“I’ll help,” Clay said, jumping to his feet.
“I like that guy,” Jane hissed.
“I do, too,” Tom said.
“All right, all right. Yes, he’s nice. Yes, he’s very nice. I offered him a job today. He accepted, but we have to work out the details.”
Daisy squealed as she opened each package. Storybooks, games, puzzles, a new book bag, hair ribbons, and a scarlet-satin purse with a crisp ten-dollar bill inside. Annie smiled when the child looped the long gold chain around her neck and sashayed around the kitchen to show off the vibrant purse.
“It’s just what I wanted, Aunt Annie. Thank you.”
“Well we have a few more presents for you that Elmo and Clay are bringing in for you. Okay, are you ready?”
“I’m ready. I can’t wait! What is it? Oh, a red wagon! I always wanted a red wagon, Uncle Elmo. Thank you so much,” she said, throwing her arms around the old man. “You’re the best,” she whispered.
“This is from Clay,” Annie said.
“Oh, Mommy, look at this! My very own car. Thank you, Mr. Clay. You too, Jake,” she said impishly.
“One more, little lady,” Annie said, handing over the green canvas bag. “Careful now.”
“It’s alive! It’s a dog! Is it for me, Aunt Annie?”
“I think so. There’s a letter inside the bag. I think it’s probably for you.”
“Read it, Mommy. Read it to me,” Daisy said as she cuddled Charlie next to her cheek. “Oh, is he really and truly all mine?” Annie nodded as Jane read the letter.
GOLDENRAY
CHER HILDEBRAND
Dear Daisy,
This little guy is a Yorkshire Terrier. He is very special and looking for a very special little girl of his own, which is why he is coming to you. I understand that you are very special and have a lot of love to offer him. He needs you and I know you will take good care of him & love him as he loves you. You will be his sunshine.
Yours truly,
Cher Hildebrand
“Daisy’s going to be busy for the rest of the evening. Why don’t we all have a beer out on the patio,” Elmo said.
“We need to talk,” Tom said.
“I can go upstairs,” Clay volunteered.
“No. You can stay. Clay told me about an idea he had on the way home from the airport,” Annie said. “I’d like you all to hear it.”
“Then let’s get comfortable,” Tom said.
“Let’s hear your ideas, son,” Elmo said.
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
Parker Grayson tossed his lab coat into a corner. He stared for a long moment at his nephew. Once he’d been this young. Once he’d been full of spit and vinegar like the young man standing in front of him. The only difference was, this boy loved living on the mainland and going to school. He’d hated it. He wondered if he’d ever been idealistic. “Let’s talk in my office, Ben.”
“How’s it all going, Uncle Parker?”
“Slow. You know us island people. The world thinks we do nothing but bask in warm trade winds making leis for tourists. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you can’t rush science. Were close, though. So, are you ready to go back