Hope's Toy Chest Read online

  “Come here.” He held his hand out to her, waiting until she came around the desk and then he pulled her onto his lap. “Logically I know I did everything I could to save your daughter. I used every option that was available to me. Nothing worked. I don’t feel I was neglectful in her treatment or her care. I only have guilt because I want to save everyone.”

  “That’s what will cause burnout.” She cupped his cheek, forcing him to look up at her. “Then what good will you be to all the sick children in need of you?”

  When he didn’t answer she ran her thumb over his cheekbone. “You’re an amazing man. Your love for children brought you to this profession for a reason. Maybe it isn’t to find a cure for everyone, but to help those you can. You have to remember you can’t save everyone, but you touch everyone’s life. Even after Hope passed away and I was left to cope on my own I never forgot you…or what you did for us.”

  “I did nothing special.”

  “You did more than any other doctor would.” She laced the fingers of her free hand through his. “That Christmas morning when Hope passed away you sat there comforting me. We went, grabbed coffee, and you held me as I cried. No other doctor would have done that. You missed your family celebration to be with me in my time of need and for that I’ll always be grateful. Just as I know that Kelly and Jessica will never forget you or what you’ve done.”

  She realized this wasn’t just about them, it was about everything. Cancer, a cure, the families he worked with. Suddenly she wondered if there wasn’t more she could be doing to make the lives of these children better. Ideas raced around her mind; the biggest involved helping out at the hospital.

  With Liz and Kingsley’s aid, Hope’s Toy Chest would be advancing to another level in the New Year. Her personal life was also quickly improving—because she’d be damned if she’d ever let him slip through her fingers.

  Gently wrapping her arms around him, she pulled him close until her chest was pressed against his and their lips met. As the passion sparked between them, she knew she’d found something special. She’d been through so much, and she’d finally gotten what she needed most.

  Chapter Seventeen

  The next few weeks passed in a blur and Christmas Eve was upon them. When Le wasn’t at the hospital, he was with Chelsea. It was the first time be actually had something outside of the hospital that he looked forward to, that he enjoyed. It didn’t matter what they were doing—watching a movie, wrapping gifts, sharing a quiet meal—every moment he spent with her was perfect.

  “Are you coming?” Chelsea hollered from the living room where she waited.

  He took one last look in the mirror to make sure his beard was on perfectly. He couldn’t be Santa with a crooked beard, and everyone was expecting him. With everything in place, he couldn’t help but laugh at how ridiculous he looked. There he stood in his velvet red suit with white trim on the wrists and ankles, the wide black belt holding up the pillow hidden under his jacket, and the itchy beard.

  “Oh, Santa…” A teasing voice called down the hall.

  “Yes, Mrs. Claus, I’m coming.” He spun on the heels of his black boots and found her standing in the doorway. Damn, she looked hot in the cute red dress, with a white sash tied around her waist.

  “There’s some special children waiting for Santa’s visit.”

  “I know, and we have to deliver presents once they are asleep. I never realized how much work you do. Good thing we can sleep in tomorrow.”

  “Not too late. I promised Liz I’d help her with Christmas dinner.”

  “Dinner isn’t until three, how early do we have to be there?”

  “I told her I would be there at noon. There’s plenty of time for us to have a luxury lay in.” She sashayed toward him, swaying her hips in a way that instantly hardened his shaft.

  He reached out, slinging his arm around her and pulled her close. “I don’t think it would be good for Santa to have a hard-on when he’s about to have dozens of kids on his lap.”

  “Maybe we should take care of it then.” She slid her hand down his chest, easing toward his shaft.

  “I’d love to take you up on that, but Liz and Jason are waiting for us. We can’t be late.” He pressed his lips to hers, letting her know just how desirable he found her. “Though I will tell you this, you’ll be wearing this outfit for me again. I love the way it clings to your curves. You’re one sexy Mrs. Claus.”

  “I’ll have to see about keeping it out of storage for your pleasures.” She smiled. “Now come along before I push you down on that bed and have my way with you.”

  He slipped his hand in hers and led the way to the door. Making his way through the house, he caught a glimpse of the nine foot Christmas tree they bought and decorated the week before. There it stood next to the fireplace, with its glowing white lights and ornaments the children made for him. Over the years, his collection had grown and now took up nearly the whole tree.

  The spirit of Christmas had returned to him and was stronger than ever. Now he had to pass that same cheer on to others. Who could have guessed Hope’s Toy Chest had something special for him too?

  The sun was peeking around the edges of the curtains when Le opened his eyes, his arm around Chelsea keeping her snuggled against his body. It was the perfect start to a Christmas morning. The first Christmas of many more, or so he hoped.

  “Morning.” Chelsea’s voice was groggy as she slid her leg over his. “What time is it?”

  He glanced at the bedside clock. “A little after seven.”

  “Are you crazy?” Her eyes widened. “We didn’t even get to bed until after three this morning. That’s four hours of sleep, there’s no way we’re getting up yet. You promised a luxury lay in, remember?”

  “That I did, but I never said we would be sleeping.” He rolled her over, quickly positioning himself on top of her. “This is the latest I’ve slept in years. I think you own me for it.”

  “I owe you?” Now fully awake she raised her eyebrow in question.

  “Yes and I intend to make sure you pay.” He slid his hands under the red silk nightshirt she was wearing. Sliding his fingers along the curve of her hips, up her body, he took the nightshirt with him. “Lean up or I’ll tear it off you.”

  “You can’t do that, this was a gift from my very own Santa.” She slid the nightshirt over her head, and his shaft hardened against her at the sight of her naked body.

  “You never did tell Santa what you wanted this Christmas.”

  “I told Grace’s husband, and it seems he delivered.” She wrapped her arms around his neck, bringing him closer. “I wanted this…you.”

  “That’s one wish I can grant.” He slipped off her and quickly pulled off his shorts. “If I had known it was me you wanted, I would have wrapped myself up.”

  She let out a lighthearted chuckle. “Oh, would you have?”

  “Well, maybe just a large bow.”

  “I’d like to see that.” She pulled him closer to her. “Show me why it was worth getting up this early.”

  He grinned and slipped into the bed beside her, pressing his lips to hers. He stroked the length of her body and slid a hand between her legs in search of her core. His fingers delved inside, sending a quiver through her body. She rocked against him, arching into him and sending his fingers deeper within her.

  Pressing his lips to hers, he worked his free hand through her hair, holding her tight to him. Feeling her moans against him. His lips tore from hers, working their way down her neck. “Not yet.” He whispered, slipping his hand from between her legs and moving to hover over her. He nudged her legs farther apart with his knee.

  She wrapped her legs around him, dragging him closer. “I need you.” The desire laced her words.

  “Unwrap your legs.” He winked, giving her neck one final kiss.

  “Le.” She cried out when he hovered above her, watching her.

  Without further demand, his mouth found her nipple as he slid his shaft into her, easing in un
til he was completely buried within her. She arched her body, her core muscles tightening around him, and her nails clawed into his back until he was sure she drew blood. He started slow—a pleasurable torture, an inexorable build. His hands roamed over her, petting her, teasing her. He loved how her body reacted to each touch.

  “Faster.” She clenched her inner muscles around his shaft, his thrusts growing deeper and faster, sending the world into a shimmering bliss. They rocked back and forth in rhythm, until she screamed for release. Calling his name as her body clenched around him and her fingers rubbed his back. His own ecstasy found him as he buried his shaft as deep within her as possible.

  “Merry Christmas.” He nuzzled against her neck, kissing the vulnerable point behind her ear. Sliding out of her, and off to the side, he knew he was in love with her.

  “Merry Christmas.” She snuggled against him, her fingers running over his chest.

  It was time he grabbed life by the horns. “Chelsea.” He leaned up on his elbow and looked down at her. “I’ve always lived my life around my hospital and patients. It wasn’t until you came back into my life that I realized how important a life outside of the hospital was. What I’m trying to say is that I’m in love with you. Will you marry me?”

  She ran her the back of her hand along the side of his face, teasing along his jaw line. “Yes.” With a bright smile, she nodded. “I never thought I’d fall in love again, but I did. I love you, Kingsley.”

  He pulled her tight against him and kissed her. This was the best Christmas present he could have hoped for. “I’ll get you a ring first thing tomorrow when the stores open.”

  “That doesn’t matter. What matters is I have you.”

  “I’ll do my best to make sure you never regret this. You’ll be the happiest woman alive.”

  He knew he would keep his promise no matter the cost. Sometimes love meant sacrificing for those you cared for, and he’d give anything to keep her happy and by his side forever.

  Chapter Eighteen

  Chelsea thought she’d gone all out on decorations at Le’s house but it was nothing compared to what Liz and Jason’s place looked like. The inside of the two story brick home could have been Santa’s workshop. A large tree dominated the foyer with a more moderately sized one in the living room. Garlands and lights were strung around the banister leading upstairs, an entire Christmas village lined the living room bookshelves, and not one but two old fashioned trains circled the base of the tree, letting off a blare of horns every time they passed the main section.

  Appetizers, each one looking more delicious than the last, were spread out across the kitchen bar that separated it from the living room. People gathered around the table, or in the living room talking. Le took her around introducing her to his parents, then to Jason and Brian’s parents. Years ago when Hope had been in the hospital, she’d met Brian, but they reacquainted themselves before Liz dashed in.

  “Chelsea, come with me, I want to show you the rest of the house.” She nodded toward the door and Chelsea followed.

  She waited until they climbed the stairs before she laid a hand on Liz’s arm. “I’ve been here before, so why did you want to get me away from everyone?”

  “To show you this.” Liz pushed open the door and she stepped closer to see what was inside.

  A nursery, done in a pale pink, with white and black accents, the name Faith in fancy letters above an ebony crib. There was a changing table, dresser, and rocker that matched. The crib bedding was black with large white swirls and pink roses; the edges had vibrant pink trim.

  “Are you? But I thought—”

  “With the cancer treatments I went through as I child, I can’t get pregnant, but we’re adopting. Our beautiful baby girl is due on Valentine’s Day.”

  “Le didn’t say anything.” She turned her head to look at her friend. “He doesn’t know. Your brother doesn’t know.” Shock coated her words.

  “No one but Jason knows. We didn’t want to say anything until we were sure. The birth mother is a nurse’s assistant at the hospital. She’s young, single, and wants to go back to school for her registered nurse’s license. It’s going to be an open adoption, and Faith will know birth mother.” Liz paused and looked back at the nursery. “It’s everything I wanted and finally it’s happening. I never thought I’d be a mother, but Susan is great. She’s allowing me to come to her doctor’s appointments, and I was there when we heard the heartbeat. Oh, Chelsea, it’s more than I could have hoped for.”

  “When are you telling your family?”

  “When we sit down for dinner. We’ve been holding off until everyone was gathered together. Susan will stop by later on so everyone can meet her and see our baby.” Liz laid her hand on Chelsea’s arm. “I wanted you to know first, because I know what a hard time of year this is for you. I didn’t want to upset you.”

  “Oh no, Liz, don’t worry about me. I’m happy for you.” Memories of expecting Hope resurfaced. She’d never replace Hope in her heart or thoughts but she wondered if Le was interested in having children. They had never talked about it but she hoped he would be willing. She wanted to try again. It was time.

  “Are you sure?”

  “I am.” Chelsea turned to her. “Actually, I was hoping to get a minute alone with you today because I have some news of my own.”

  “Spill it.” Liz leaned back against the door frame and eyed her.

  “Le asked me to marry him and I said yes.”

  “Oh, that’s wonderful.” Liz pulled Chelsea into a tight hug. “I’m so happy for the two of you. You do understand what you’re getting into with his career, don’t you?”

  “Yes. First you’re happy for me, then you follow it with a downer.” She teased. “There was something else. Remember how you wanted me to talk with some of the parents who were having a hard time dealing with their child’s cancer?”

  “Yes, and you turned me down, saying you weren’t ready for that.”

  “I am now if you need someone. I spoke with Kelly Cook, Jessica’s mother, and I think I can do some good. I can meet with parents who are having a hard time, have coffee with them while they’re waiting for the chemo or radiation treatments to be finished. I don’t want the responsibility of your job, I just want to be a friend, someone to listen to them.”

  “We’ll get you started right away. What changed your mind?”

  “A little bit of this and that, but mostly talking to Kelly and Le. It’s time I move on with my life. Hope will always be a part of me but I have to start living again. I’ve also got to show that brother of yours that there’s more to life than just the hospital.” She paused as she heard voices coming from below. As they passed, she turned back to Liz. “I also want to do more with Hope’s Toy Chest but we can discuss that later. I believe you have some news you need to tell the family.” She winked.

  “Correction, news we both need to tell everyone. You’re announcing your engagement too.” Liz slipped her arm through Chelsea’s and headed to the stairs.

  “Oh no. This is your moment, they can find out about the impending wedding soon enough. I only told you because I couldn’t hold it in any longer and I was hoping you’d be my maid of honor.”

  “Seriously?”

  Chelsea nodded. “You’re my best friend and his sister, there’s no one else more qualified.”

  “Oh, this is going to be so much fun.” Liz let go of her arm and bounced down the steps. “Everyone gather around! There are a few announcements we need to get out of the way before dinner. Le and Chelsea, why don’t you do the honor.”

  “What are you talking about?” Le raised an eyebrow, glancing between both women.

  “Sorry, I couldn’t help myself.” She smiled and held out her hand to him. “Tell everyone so Liz can tell them her good news.” When he came to her, she wrapped her arm around his waist.

  With his arm around her, she snuggled against him, glowing with happiness. Things had a way of working out and eventually she’d fou
nd contentment. No, on the contrary; it had found them.

  Epilogue

  A barbeque had sounded like a wonderful idea when Kingsley thought of it, but now that the day had arrived all he wanted to do was take his wife up to their room and forget about the last twenty-four hours. Ups and downs were part of a doctor’s life, but when one of the patients he’d been seeing for years came out of remission, only to decline quickly, he began to wonder if things were worth it. With the grill going, he stared out at the green grass, his thoughts transporting him back to the hospital until he heard a familiar little girl’s yell.

  “Doctor Mathews!”

  He looked to the side of the house to see Jessica sprinting toward him, her mother Kelly only a few steps behind. Six months of remission and she looked like any other child her age. A little skinnier than she should be, but she was up running around and not stuck in some hospital bed. “Jessica, it’s good to see you, my Christmas miracle.” He squatted down to give her a hug.

  “It was nice of you to invite us.” Kelly held a large bowl filled with fruit salad. “I know you said not to bring anything but I couldn’t come empty-handed.”

  “Thank you, but we’re just glad you could make it.” Chelsea took the bowl and set it on the table.

  “I hear you’re doing amazing work at the hospital.” Kelly squeezed Chelsea’s arm. “Parents going through cancer with their children need someone like you to talk to.” She leaned in to whisper, “But don’t forget about your own life.”

  “Don’t worry. For the first time I feel like I’m actually living. Things couldn’t be better.”

  “We make time outside of our hospital duties.” Le smirked, having overheard them. “Well, that and Hope’s Toy Chest. If I don’t stop her she’s going to have the organization spread across the world.”

  “No, for right now I think I’ll keep it home-based. I want my work to be enjoyed by the patients at Cedar Grove Children’s Hospital.” She slipped her arm around Le’s waist.