Page 21 of Christmas In The Presidential Suite

Speaking quietly, Cinda said, “I like you, Emmie, but to be fair, I want you to know I’m not ready for another woman to enter our family as a replacement for my mother.”

Emmie blinked in surprise. “There must be some mistake. I’ve just met your father. We’ve become friends because we’re still grieving our spouses. And I have a daughter who is still struggling with the death of her father.”

“Everything all right?” asked Ted, joining them.

Emmie could feel the heat rush to her cheeks. “We’re just getting acquainted.”

“That’s good.” He winked at her. “I’m serious about getting a deal at Romero’s restaurant.”

She laughed and was relieved when Cinda joined in.

The pizza and salad arrived.

The kids, hungry now, raced into the kitchen to eat.

Cinda and Ryan supervised the kids, leaving Emmie with Diana, while Ted and Chase went to fetch the beer and wine for the adults, who’d be eating on the lanai.

“I saw you talking to Cinda,” said Diana. “I hope she didn’t scare you off. I haven’t seen Ted this content in forever.”

“She’s definitely worried there might be something between Ted and me. I told her that we were just friends. His wife died about the same time as my husband.”

Diana studied her. “I have no idea what your feelings are, but I see the way Ted looks at you and know he’s definitely interested in you.”

Cinda walked onto the patio carrying a large bowl containing a green leaf salad. Ted followed behind with paper plates, napkins, and forks.

“I’ve got the beer and wine out. What does everyone want?” asked Ryan.

They all placed their drink orders. Then Chase and Ryan brought their drinks to the dining table on the lanai.

Emmie loved the casualness of the occasion. There were no fancy airs, just people enjoying some of the best pizza she’d had in a long time.

Aware of Cinda’s worried glances, Emmie decided to leave as soon as she gracefully could.

A short while later, Emmie finished the last of her meal. “Thank you all for including me in your supper. I must leave. I’ve promised Ann and Rhonda to help deliver gifts later, and we need to get things organized.”

Ted stood. “I’ll walk you to the hotel. It’s dark, and I want to make sure you get back there safely.”

“Thank you, but I think I can make my way,” she said.

“I insist,” Ted said, prohibiting further discussion without Emmie appearing to be petty.

“Merry Christmas, everyone! Have fun tonight and a great day tomorrow.”

She gathered her things, said ‘bye’ to the kids watching television, and headed out the door with Ted.

Outside, Ted took her arm. “I’m glad you could come tonight. I wanted you to meet my family.”

“They’re lovely,” said Emmie. “It’s nice to know that you have their support.”

They began walking.

Ted was quiet, and then he said, “I saw you talking with Cinda. I hope she didn’t say anything rude.”

“No, but she let me know she’s not ready for you to date anyone seriously. I understand. My youngest daughter, Gemma, is still having a difficult time with my husband’s death.”

Ted pulled her to a stop and turned her to face him. “Emmie, I like you. A lot. I want the opportunity to see more of you.”

She looked up into the eyes and knew she couldn’t say no to any suggestion of it. She sighed. “I like you, too. When are you going back home?”