A Daddy for Christmas
Single mother Ellie Grant’s little girl only wants one thing for Christmas: a daddy. But after adopting Gracie and losing her fiancé, Ellie made a vow to focus on motherhood—not romance. But the five-year-old has her sights set on veterinarian Wyatt Wright, a handsome widowed father whose toddler son means an instant brother. Ellie knows that Wyatt’s heart is as closed to love as hers is. Yet when Wyatt also starts working at Wranglers Ranch, Ellie can’t deny her growing feelings. Now her daughter’s fondest wish might make two families into one just in time for Christmas.
“What if I spend some time with Gracie, just to clear up this daddy notion of hers?” Wyatt asked.
“In exchange for what?” Ellie’s eyes searched his face.
“For you watching my son for a few hours. I know I’m getting the better deal, but Gracie obviously needs someone to talk to. And I need help with Cade.”
“But the evenings, before bedtime, those are special daddy moments you shouldn’t miss with Cade,” she protested.
“Something has to give, Ellie.” He hated admitting that. “I have to work and keep our home up.”
“I have just one condition,” Ellie said.
“Name it.”
“You have to agree that this is simply an arrangement between friends and nothing more. I’m not looking for a father for Gracie or a relationship for myself. I need you to be clear on that, Wyatt. Strictly friends.”
“Agreed,” he said with a nod, relief swelling. “I don’t want any romantic entanglements, either.” He grinned at her and thrust out his hand. “Deal, friend?”
Ellie took her time but finally she shook hands with him. “Deal.”
Welcome back to Wranglers Ranch where life’s so busy an on-staff nurse and veterinarian are necessary. But these two single parents aren’t interested in finding someone to love. It’s going to take some strong-minded love to bring Ellie and Wyatt together. Fortunately there’s a little girl determined to get a daddy for Christmas whether or not it’s on her mom’s list.
I hope you’ve enjoyed Wyatt and Ellie’s struggle to understand God’s love is always there, waiting for us to come home to it. Join me next time at Wranglers Ranch where you’re always welcome.
I love to hear from you: write me via Facebook, www.loisricher.com, [email protected] or snail mail at Box 639, Nipawin, SK S0E 1E0, Canada.
I wish you a Merry Christmas as together we celebrate the greatest gift ever given. May His love penetrate your heart and soul as you move toward a future He has prepared just for you.
Blessings,
LOIS RICHER loves traveling, swimming and quilting, but mostly she loves writing stories that show God’s boundless love for His precious children. As she says, “His love never changes or gives up. It’s always waiting for me. My stories feature imperfect characters learning that love doesn’t mean attaining perfection. Love is about keeping on keeping on.” You can contact Lois via email, [email protected], or on Facebook (loisricherauthor).
Her Christmas Family Wish
Lois Richer
Whatever your hands find to do,
do it with your might.
—Ecclesiastes 9:10
This book is dedicated to my nephew Drew,
who is on the way to discovering his future.
God bless you, Drew.
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