A Husband For Christmas. Gail Gaymer Martin

I hope to get out of here by seven-thirty. Eight at the latest.”

      She pictured his face, his eyes crinkling at the edges as he talked, the lock of hair that sometimes dipped to his forehead, the five o’clock shadow she found so appealing. “We’re fine, Doug. Really.”

      “I owe you one, Nina. Ask and it’s yours. Anything.”

      His offer sent prickles up her arms. “You might be sorry you said that.”

      “Never. I’ll see you later.”

      They disconnected, and she approached Kimmy with Doug’s offer ringing in her ears.

      Angie’s insistence that she have an escort for the wedding had bugged her, and naturally Angie thought of Doug. But Doug had already been embedded in her mind since they’d spent so much time together. Everything had been innocent and mainly involving Kimmy. The wedding didn’t involve Kimmy. In fact he’d have to hire a babysitter. She couldn’t ask him.

      I owe you one, Nina. Ask and it’s yours. Anything. Anything. But escorting her to a wedding certainly wasn’t what he had in mind. But...what had he meant? He said anything.

      Her mind spun, and she closed her eyes. Truth was, the more she thought of it, she disliked attending the reception alone. A wedding service, maybe, but the celebration? A party? Alone would be a downer. Still asking Doug...that would take gumption on her part and even a bit of faith.

      The idea settled in her mind. She’d already talked to God once today. Maybe, just maybe, another little chat might give her unexpected courage.

      The whole idea spread through her like puzzle pieces. She’d always been good with them except the puzzles of her life. That was one she hadn’t conquered yet. But maybe, just maybe...