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    Pretend Mom
    Pretend Mom
    Pretend Mom
    Ebook252 pages3 hours

    Pretend Mom

    By Rita Hestand

    ()

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    About this ebook

    There’s always a price to pay for fame and fortune...

    And no one knows this better than singing sensation, Dixie Kincaid. After years on the road as a successful singer/songwriter, Dixie returns to Texas for her mother’s wedding. Going home again is never easy, and Dixie just wants to continue doing what she loves most—writing, top-charting songs.

    But when handsome and charismatic, Mike Dalton picks her up at the airport, and she spends time with Mike and his daughter on his ranch, Dixie finds herself in the middle of a complicated love triangle that rivals any sappy country song.

    After a marriage proposal from her shady agent, Ed Newton, and Mike’s shocking confession that he’s loved her for years, Dixie’s forced to make a tough decision between two very different men and her thriving career.
    Torn between staying in Texas with Mike and his daughter or living a glamorous life in New York, Dixie must choose between love and ambition.

    But is following her dreams worth losing the only man she’s ever truly loved?

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherRita Hestand
    Release dateNov 29, 2009
    ISBN9781452303185
    Pretend Mom
    Author

    Rita Hestand

    Hi friendsI'd like to ask a favor, not just for me but for all writers. PLease when we offer a free book, it would be wonderful if you'd take the time to rate the book. This doesn't take much time out of your day and authors really apreciate your time to do this. I know not everyone wants to sit down and write a review, but rating the book will help as well. And a big thanks to all who do this. You never know how much an author appreciates you taking the time to do this.I finally finished The Car Stalker. Hope you'll check it out. This is the second book in the stalker series. Like I said mystery is much different from romance all though there are elements in romance in my stalker books too. Today I finished an another book in my series of Vets coming home, Better Every Day. This book takes the angle of when family interrupts your plans. When a one-night stand is much more. I love this story as it hits home. So two new books out now and more coming.I'm taking the time to write while confined at home. But lack of seeing people outside, and living alone all the time is not new to me. I've got lots of stories to tell so be on the lookout for my newest releases. You might check out my Searchin g for You Indian romance on Amazon too.There are several new free books for you enjoyment, since your stuck at home. Home you enjoy them.As for a bio, suffice it to say, I'm a Texan tried and true. I have grown children and grandchildren and already some great-grandchildren. I've done multi jobs in my lifetime giving me a variety of experiences to write and talk about. I've done many different kinds of work from Texas Instruments, to City of Garland, to working for the Wylie Independent School District. I've worked for a hat factory, filing insurance claims, secretarial work, to waitress work. My writing reflects my varied background. Another note I've had a in home day care for twenty years too. So when I write about something I have a general knowledge of it too, which is a real bonus for me. Just like my public work, my writing varies too from contemporary to historical, I write romance, thrillers, children's. A lot of people might say gee, that's a lot of different jobs, and it is, but, I've learned from them all, and I use that experience in my writing.I want to thank all the readers over a length of time that have tried some of my books. I hope I've enlightened and entertained you. I hope I've shared some love in this world. Sharing love can't be bad, it's God given.God bless.Other places to see my bookshttps://www.fantasticfiction.com/h/rita-hestand/https://itunes.apple.com/us/author/rita-hestand/id365799219?mt=11www.scriptsforschools.com/rita-hestandhttps://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/search?query=rita%20hestand&fcsearchfield=author

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      Book preview

      Pretend Mom - Rita Hestand

      Pretend Mom

      BY RITA HESTAND

      Copyright ©2009 Rita Hestand

      All Rights Reserved

      ISBN# 9781452303185

      License Note

      This book Pretend Mom is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be resold or given away to other people. Please purchase an additional copy for each person you share with. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it. or it was not purchased for your use only, then you should return it to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of the author.

      Dedication:

      I would like to dedicate this book to all the small towns of America. It is from the roots of these towns that America has built its backbone. The friendliness and charm I hope will always be with us. God Bless America!

      Rita Hestand

      Table of Contents

      Chapter One

      Chapter Two

      Chapter Three

      Chapter Four

      Chapter Five

      Chapter Six

      Chapter Seven

      Chapter Eight

      Chapter Nine

      Chapter Ten

      Chapter Eleven

      About the Author

      Rita's Other Books

      Chapter One

      Leaning against the ramp, she let everyone pass her until she could get a grip on her stomach. Dixie Kincaid felt weak, almost sick. Her fear of flying had taken its toll, once again. On wobbly legs she careened down the exit ramp toward the main gate. Taking a deep quelling breath, she pushed her dark brown hair from her face. Willing herself not to tremble, she grasped the wall for support as she glanced around for a familiar face. No one stepped forward. No one called her name. She should have known, she hadn't let anyone know she was coming home but Emily, her stepmom, and she was probably busy and couldn't make it to the airport.

      Still that sick feeling prevailed.

      For a split second she secretly wished Kevin had been here to greet her. Maybe she could have dashed all those doubts away in one quick glance. But then, she knew that was merely wishful thinking. Why should he?

      It had been three long years since she'd been home, and then only to be whisked to the cemetery and back to catch her plane. It had been seven years since she had spent any time at her home. Much too long, she quickly realized.

      She glanced about for a familiar face. There were none. And suddenly she felt very alone, something like a copper penny that had faded like all the rest. She didn't stand out, and that part had been intentional. Maybe because she was so used to cameras and newsmen greeting her, not having them around felt strangely odd to her. She had wanted it this way, she reminded herself. No cameras, no newsmen, just someone from home to greet her. There was no one. Maybe she deserved that!

      She suddenly realized she might have to rent a car and drive herself home. The way she felt that wasn't a good idea. She hadn't thought of that. She fumbled in her purse for her luggage ticket.

      Hello, Dixie, A deep voice came from just over her shoulder, a southern drawl that could only belong to one man, and made Dixie almost drop her luggage ticket. She knew instinctively there was only one man that voice could belong to.

      She whirled about, and before she realized his intention, his arms went around her lightly, and his lips feather-touched hers. Her lips were unexpectedly soft, as he caressed her.

      Hints of cattle, hay and clean earth filled her nostrils—a strangely compelling scent.

      The kiss warmed her, even though she knew it was meant to rattle her façade.

      Mission accomplished!

      Goose bumps prickled her skin, making her tingle; the kiss spoke of coming home, of being cared for. Of a gentleness she certainly hadn't expected, least of all from this man.

      When the man pulled away with a satisfied smile and Dixie was left to compose herself, and her thoughts, all she could do was hang her mouth open and stare.

      Welcome home. The man's voice sounded raspy, his eyes glittering into hers.

      Mike Dalton! she murmured aloud, trying to make sense of his actions and her reactions. Gathering her wits about her, she cast him a disdainful glance as she tried to control her shaking limbs. First an airplane ride from hell, now a bolt from the blue like Mike Dalton greeting her. And what a greeting! A kiss was the last thing she expected from Mike.

      What startled her most was her own reaction to the kiss.

      She swallowed hard.

      Just because he kissed her didn't mean she'd changed her mind about him, nor he about her. He shouldn't be here, her mind reeled. But then she knew why he was! Summoning her self-control, she straightened her denim jumper and gave him a guarded smile.

      His eyes glistened as his moist lips firmed into a warm, welcoming smile. How could he stand there and look so self-satisfied? Although, she had to admit, he looked better than ever.

      His roughly etched features hinted a hawk-like quality as he stared down into her surprised face with amusement.

      Mike vibrated his own brand of southern charm. His grin was too wide, his nose was a smidgen crooked, and those eyes, not even a real brown, more gold—and all seeing. His hair, a rich shade of mahogany, was short cropped and invited a ruffle as he adjusted his hat. Pleasantly handsome—and terribly compelling, he wasn't the kind of man a woman could walk away from without remembering. Bigger than life, Mike made an instant impression. Time hadn't aged him a bit, only mellowed him into a fine-looking man.

      In faded jeans, a white shirt and a jean jacket, he wore the word virile like some men wore after-shave.

      Despite her better sense, Dixie's heart raced to an odd beat. A familiar beat she thought long forgotten. She never understood her reactions to Mike. No one affected her like he did, not even his brother, Kevin. There had always been this electrical current running between them, as though there were things unspoken. It made absolutely no sense how his mere presence could affect her equilibrium. It had been seven long years since she laid eyes on Mike, and yet it seemed like yesterday as he stared back at her with that same familiar expression.

      He knew instinctively how to confuse her emotionally. That kiss raised more than a little curiosity, obviously in both their minds, from the expression on his face, as though he was surprised by his own actions.

      Where was her family? Why weren't they here? And why did this stubborn, handsome man have to stand here and look at her so smug?

      Deep down, Dixie suspected she knew why Mike was here. It was Kevin. Mike was still protecting his brother from the vamp. And she was the vamp!

      How she got that title she didn't want to think about.

      Veiling her thoughts, Dixie glanced innocently at him. I suppose you're here to pick me up?

      That's right. Everyone was tied up at the time. So, I volunteered.

      How nice of you. Forgive me if I'm a little startled to see you, Mike. But you're about the last person I expected.

      I gathered that much. His glance slid over her like thick, hot fudge spreading over ice cream. You look a little shaken; you want to get a bite to eat?

      That might be a good idea. She hadn't wanted to sound breathless, but she simply couldn't help herself. At least with food in her mouth she wouldn't have to do much talking. She usually managed to stick her foot in her mouth around Mike.

      Mike's smooth southern drawl brought Dixie's eyes to his penetrating gaze. Great. I forgot breakfast, myself. But let's get something down the road, okay? The prices in airports are outrageous.

      He touched her elbow and guided her through the growing crowd. In a matter of minutes, he had rescued her luggage from a baggage chute and carried both cases with ease to his slightly battered pickup.

      Mike watched her hug the door with open amusement as he opened the door for her. She couldn't help but wonder if she measured up to his expectations. He certainly did to hers. Maybe just a tad too much!

      That kiss didn't fool her though—just rattled her.

      Once they were settled and, on their way, he switched on the air-conditioner. She had forgotten how unbearably hot it got in Texas.

      So, are you staying long? His glance met hers across the small confines of the truck.

      No, it's just a vacation. Maybe a couple of weeks. If I'm lucky.

      Don't you control your own vacations?

      Hardly. She noticed him react to that statement, so she explained. I just live my life, everyone else directs it.

      He stared a bit bemused.

      Then New York is still your home?

      It's where my work is, yes. I've been there seven years and I'm finally making progress. I've got a nice little apartment, and it's comfy. I've got three albums out and will be doing a fourth when I return. Almost as soon as I return. That's the schedule so far. I don't want to even think about the publicity tours.

      He didn't seem that interested. That didn't surprise her, since Mike had been the one who had scoffed at her making a singing career seven years ago.

      He maneuvered the truck like a well-trained horse, though. He was a good driver, even in morning traffic.

      I've heard you on the radio. He checked the traffic before pulling onto the highway, it was busy this morning. Believe it or not, I've got all three of your albums.

      She glanced at him. You? She swallowed a dose of pride, she left behind. I didn't think you liked rock music.

      Not particularly, no.

      He didn't explain, she didn't ask.

      After a short silence he relaxed.

      You know, I kinda expected you to show up in one of those weird costumes most rock stars wear on stage. You know, like on your cover. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but definitely not a sophisticated looking woman.

      She frowned. I don't usually travel in full make-up. Besides, this is a vacation, and I didn't want to be recognized. I even went so far as to use a phony name with the airlines. And obviously it worked. For the first time in a long time I got off a plane without a million cameras going off in my face.

      Yeah, I could see where that could be a problem. Having cameras in your face all the time, can't be fun.

      She met his mocking smile.

      Knowing Mike was old-fashioned and believed a woman belonged in the home, having babies, she refrained from elaborating on her work. Although she had to squelch the overwhelming desire to brag about herself. He probably wouldn't believe that she liked her work, even though it wasn't what she really wanted to do. She wanted to write music, as being onstage did overwhelm her at times. No one would believe that she was shy in front of people. The make-up helped though. It was like a shield between her and the audiences.

      So . . . Mike drawled, his eyes escaping the long hot road enough to send her a quizzing look. Are you married now?

      No—uh, I've been too busy to settle down. Besides, that's not about to happen until I find Mr. Right. And if I were married it would be in all the magazines.

      Mr. Right. He repeated slowly, as though savoring those words. That's interesting. Is that what you're waiting for? Now he was goading her.

      I'm not waiting for anything. She squirmed as the air-conditioner made a funny noise and clicked off.

      Mike banged on the dash and the air came back on. Sorry, I've been meaning to have that fixed.

      She stared at the truck, then him. I'm surprised you're still driving this . . .

      Grinning he nodded. Best work truck I ever had. Couldn't give old Betsy up.

      Surely this wasn't the only vehicle he owned. You haven't bought a new one? She bit her lip for asking.

      No need. This gets me where I want to go. And usually, it's not to the airport.

      How can you impress a woman in something like this? she squawked.

      He shot her a quick glance. I'm not trying to impress anyone, especially a woman. I am what I am, what you see, nothing more, nothing less.

      When an awkward silence ensued, she chanced a glance at him again. So, why didn't Emily and the boys come with you?

      Mike didn't answer right away. The traffic was thick, people were just going to work, and Mike seemed frustrated suddenly. Perhaps he wanted to be rid of her.

      Finally, he shot her a smile and another long lazy glance as they came to an abrupt halt. Someone with car trouble ahead was holding up traffic. The line of cars and trucks was building.

      Emily got involved in the annual church charity bazaar again this year, he said. She was elected to the committee. And you know how she gets when she's involved in something for the church. She knew you'd understand, though. Besides, it's still a long drive home, and Emily was never fond of travel. Especially traffic jams on freeways during a heat wave. I think she'll be relieved you're finally home, though.

      She sounded strange on the phone. Like there was something she wanted to talk about but just couldn't on the phone. I sensed there was something wrong.

      Oh, I wouldn't say there's anything really wrong, but she is anxious to talk to you. There was a car pulled onto the side of the road, and Mike pulled behind it and parked his truck. Do you mind if I stop and help them? They've got three kids in the back seat and, in this heat, that can't be much fun. They've got their windows rolled down, so their air must not be working.

      No, go ahead. Dixie craned her neck to watch. She'd forgotten how helpful downhome folks could be. This would never happen in New York. People were too busy.

      Mike shook hands with the man, and in minutes they were busy with the lug nuts. A few minutes later he came back to the truck rolling his sleeves of his shirt down and throwing his jacket in the back, then he threw his tools in the truck bed.

      They were halfway across town when he spotted a place to eat. This all right with you? He gestured toward a hamburger drive in.

      Dixie stared, she hadn't seen a drive in besides a Sonic in a long time, but she remembered this one as being quite famous.

      Sure, sounds great right now. I'm not sure I could wait since you have to stop off and pick up a—bull, didn't you say? She gestured toward the trailer he was pulling.

      Yeah, I'm sorry about that. It won't take long. I've already signed the papers and paid the man, so all I have to do is load him up and take him home. It was on the way home, so I figured might as well kill two birds with one stone.

      I suppose I should be grateful I didn't have to get a shuttle. She didn't look at him, but the little blond carhop on her way over to the truck captured his attention.

      Give us a couple of burgers with mustard and fries and a couple of Cokes. He ordered for her.

      He glanced over at her and smiled. Isn't that what you used to order most of the time at the Dairy Mart back home?

      She nodded; surprised that Mike Dalton would have remembered such a thing.

      Dixie firmed her lips when he dished out the money, though. Being old fashioned he was bound to pay for both their meals but it still it irritated her no end. It was hard to remember she wasn't in New York, where every woman sought to prove herself as good as a man. No, this was Texas, laid back, friendly, and very old fashioned.

      He turned toward her, pushing his hat away from his face, and relaxing behind the wheel.

      Something wrong?

      N-no, I mean, I can pay for my own food, she said.

      Feeling indebted, are we? He grinned.

      Am I indebted? She twisted her head to look at him.

      Not in the least. Just call me old-fashioned. When a lady eats with me, she's automatically my guest.

      Thanks, I didn't have change for a hundred anyhow. She chuckled, wanting to make light of a situation she'd blown out of proportion.

      She'd grown as a woman and it was petty to fight about everything. Besides, it proved quite an adjustment from where she lived.

      He smiled—this time with her, not at her—and some of the tension between them eased. Still, Dixie knew exactly why Mike was here. He was making good and sure she left his brother alone. Why Mike had tried to come between her and Kevin all those years ago, she didn't know. After all, it had always been a one-sided affair. Kevin had no feelings for her…at least not back then, and she wasn't sure of her own reaction to him now. Truth be told, she had come home to find out, but she wouldn’t' be telling his brother that. How could she admit to herself or anyone else that she just wasn't sure she was in love with Ed? Ed was her publicity agent, good looking, go-getter, but he lacked something she craved, just a little bit of romance.

      Glad you haven't lost your sense of humor. He leaned back and smiled at her.

      Despite her intention, a smile dotted her lips. So, Emily is still doing volunteer work? She groped for a change in subject. Too many compliments from Mike could be dangerous.

      Never stopped as far as I know.

      How silly she'd been. She should have known Emily always got involved in community projects, offering to do almost everything herself. Of course, she had too many irons in the fire to come to the airport. And she did get carsick. Funny how things like that slipped your mind when you hadn't been home in so long.

      What surprised her was that Mike knew all of this about Emily.

      Still, not having family to greet her at the airport left Dixie feeling uneasy. She hadn't dealt with Mike in a long time, and according to her heart, she didn't know how to deal with him. She never had. She'd been attracted to him a long time ago until her father insisted that Mike was too old for her. At the time, he was right. However, now that age difference seemed silly. He was barely five years older than she.

      He looked hungry for a skirmish, and he still managed to make her feel like an awkward schoolgirl at times. His very presence made her heart rate soar. There seemed to be a strange kind of chemistry between them. One she wouldn't dare examine. They seemed to respond to each other physically, but mentally they were worlds apart—and knew it. At least they used to be. Still, age had a way of catching up to

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