When Alec Met Evie (Appies, #6)

by Jenny Proctor

The only exception to the very depressing condition of my heart is Juno. Loving her is the easiest thing I’ve ever done. Most of the time, I have no idea how to mother her or teach her or raise her into a capable human. But loving her—that’s like breathing. In the carrier at my feet, Juno starts to fuss, and I pick it up, swinging it back and forth. She’s going to need to eat soon and probably needs her diaper changed. “Alec is my best friend Megan’s older brother,” I say to Ruth. “That’s why he’s helping out. I’ve known him since I was a kid.” “Is that right?” Ruth says. “Well, it’s wonderful he’s here and willing to help. Now, I know we’ve just met and you’re under no obligation to be my friend, but I retired last year, after teaching for thirty-seven years. My kids are off living their lives and haven’t given me any grandchildren yet, and my husband passed six months ago, leaving me all alone in a house that’s too empty, too big for just me.” My heart squeezes at the mention of her husband’s passing, but Ruth blazes on, her expression shuttering just enough for me to sense she’d rather not dwell on it. “I’ve got a knack for babies,” she continues, “so if you need a helping hand, I hope you’ll call me.” She holds up the pie plate and looks at the bottom. “I taped my phone number to the bottom of the pie plate. Chicken pot pie. Figured you’d need food more than you’d need dessert, what with a baby to care for.” “I don’t know what to say.” Juno’s crying escalates, so I put...