Page 46 of The Library on Plum Island
“Our Alex?” Victoria’s shocked voice echoed back to them.
Alex and Daniella were drawn back into the conversation that was happening around them. He felt Daniella’s hand tighten within his, and his pulse raced even more.
“Why is that so hard to believe?” Alex asked his parents. “I do good deeds all the time.”
“It’s not that, darling,” Victoria said. “And I didn’t mean it in a negative way. I’m just surprised and so proud, that’s all.”
“Doctor Thornton, if there is anything we can do to help,” Arthur told Daniella. “Please, don’t hesitate to call.” He looked at Sam. “Anything you need, Sam.”
“Thank you, Arthur,” Sam said to Alex’s father. “I appreciate that. I hope that this won’t spill over onto anyone else in your family.”
“Let it spill.” Victoria’s voice was filled with vehemence. “You became part of our extended family that moment you all welcomed ours into your lives in Plum Island and made them feel like part of the community.” She gave Daniella a bright smile that made Alex roll his eyes as he knew what was coming. “A month ago, I only had one daughter and grandchild. Then Ethan and Carly got together, and I got another daughter and a grandson.”
“Thank you, Victoria,” Carly said graciously. “It was so nice to have been so warmly welcomed into your family and to accept Reef as you have done.”
“Carly, you and your son have made Ethan and Shay so happy,” Victoria assured her. “I should be thanking you for bringing love back into their lives.” Her eyes turned back to Alex and Daniella. “I know the circumstances aren’t conventional. But then some of the best marriages never started off as planned.”
“Mother…” Alex warned. “This is a marriage of convenience.” But Alex saw the knowing look flash in his mother’s eyes.Shoot, she knows.He sighed. “Please don’t make Daniella uncomfortable.”
“It’s okay,” Daniella assured him. “It’s refreshing to see how close your family is.”
“Thank you, dear,” Victoria said to Daniella. “And if we’re going to pull this off as a real fairy tale romance, you’ll need to call me Vicky or Mom if you prefer.”
“Mother!” Alex and Ethan said in unison, shaking their heads at their mother.
“Vicky, sweetheart, you’re putting a lot of pressure on Doctor Thornton.” Arthur grinned as he looked at Alex. He, too, had that knowing glint with a hint of pride shining in his eyes before addressing Daniella. “Please excuse my wife. She’s got a good heart and gets over enthusiastic when it comes to helping anyone.”
“I do!” Victoria admitted. “I’m sorry, dear.”
“It’s fine, really,” Daniella reassured them. “And please, call me Dani or Daniella.”
Alex and Daniella sat through another hour of questions, plans, and suggestions, and by the time his parents hung up, he felt like he’d just run a marathon.
“Oh, gosh, look at the time,” Jennifer pointed to her wristwatch. “Harley, we need to finish packing and leave for Boston soon.”
“I need to get ready as well now that we’re also going to Boston with all of you,” Carly stated and turned to Ethan. “Are you ready to go?”
“Yes.” Ethan nodded and looked at Alex. “We’ll chat later!”
Carly called Shay and Reef, and the four of them left, closely followed by Jennifer, Harley, and Sam. Quiet fell in the room. Alex was about to offer more juice or coffee when Daniella’s phone rang.
“Excuse me,” Daniella stood. “I have to take this; it’s the clinic.”
Daniella walked out the glass doors, leaving him with Harriet, Dawn, and Emily, who all sat scrutinizing him.
“What?” Alex shrugged.
Before they could answer, they were interrupted when Daniella rushed back into the room.
“I’m sorry,” Daniella said. “I have to go. There’s an emergency at the clinic.” She looked at Emily, signing.Honey, grab your things. I’ll drop you off at home so you can get ready for Boston.
Emily nodded, gathered her backpack, and Hicks. She said goodbye to Harriet and Dawn. Alex walked Daniella and Emily to the door.
“I’ll call you as soon as I’m done at the clinic,” Daniella promised.
“Be careful,” Alex said, waving them off.
When they were gone, Alex hoped he could sneak into his room unnoticed by Harriet and Dawn, but when he turned around, they were standing behind him waiting.
