Serendipitous Chapter 7 A

Tyler and Rebeka met 9 days ago.

Previous Post:

When Tyler turned off the video, he studied Rebeka. "What are your thoughts?"

"You did a good job. I appreciate it."

"You approve?"

"I do."

"You look worn out."

"I am. If you don't mind, can we finish this conversation tomorrow?" asked Rebeka.

Tyler offered his hand. "I understand. I'll walk you to your room." He glanced at Zeke who followed. "He'll come too."

TODAY'S POST:

CHAPTER 7 A

During breakfast Sunday morning, Elizabeth attempted to hurry Lily. "Child, you need to stop playing with your food and finish. In less than thirty minutes, we need to leave for Sunday School and you're still in pajamas."

Lily studied Tyler. "Uncle Ty, why doesn't Aunt Beth make you go to Sunday School?"

Elizabeth shook her head. "I've tried for years and finally gave up. Your uncle's a lost cause."

Tyler glanced at Rebeka, who attempted to hide her smile, and shook his head. "I wouldn't say I'm a lost cause. I have my reasons, and they're valid. Aunt Beth, we've discussed this." He took a sip of coffee. "Beka and I'll meet you two for the service."

Rebeka's eyebrows rose. "I didn't know I was going."

He dipped the top of his newspaper, and his eyes met hers. "Don't you normally attend church on Sunday?"

"I do, but..." She released a deep breath. "I'd like to, but it'll cause gossip."

"Probably, but the press agreed to leave you alone. Our agreement was, if I talked with them, they'd stay away. If they don't honor that, I'll call the police." He checked the time. "We'll leave in about an hour and a half." He grinned. "You have plenty of dresses to choose from. Or you can wear the one you have on. You look nice."

With a sigh, she said, "We'll see." She scanned the table. "Aunt Beth, why don't you finish getting ready? I'll take care of the dishes."

Elizabeth asked, "Ty, what time do you expect Roger and Amber? Will they be here for lunch? And have you thought about the sleeping arrangements?"

"I'm guessing they'll be here late-afternoon. I've made reservations, so we'll go out after church. You don't need to cook. I figured Roger would take the guest room. He usually does."

"Amber and I can share a bed," offered Rebeka.

Elizabeth stood behind and put her hands on Rebeka's shoulders. "That's not going happen. Lily will sleep with me. Amber can have her bed." When Rebeka started to object, Elizabeth continued, "That's the way it's going to happen, right Ty?"

He grinned. "Certainly, Aunt Beth. You've put your foot down. Who am I to challenge it?"

*****
On the way to church, Rebeka asked, "Can I ask something?"

Tyler's right eyebrow rose. "Of course, ask away."

"Why don't you go to Sunday School?"

He chuckled. "Because all the single and some married young ladies spent class time flirting with me. I got tired of it, so I quit going."

"Makes sense." Rebeka studied the windshield.

"I'm guessing there's something on your mind." Tyler glanced her direction.

"You don't think I flirt with you, do you?"

"I'm glad you're getting comfortable enough to ask questions." He chuckled. "But sorry, Buttercup, there's no way I could ever accuse you of flirting with me. At times I wonder if you even like me."

She tilted her head. "Why would you say that?" When his eyes widened, she asked, "Why wouldn't I like you? You're caring, generous, and a good listener."

"Thank you." He glanced in her direction. "Looks like you have another question."

"Why are you calling me Buttercup?"

"Well Buttercup, I happen to like buttercups. They're not glamorous like roses or orchids. They don't get notoriety, yet they're special in a non-flashy way. Much like you."

"Hmm, I need to think about that."

"Let me know what you come up with." He grinned as he parked in the church's parking lot. "Ready?" When she exhaled a deep breath, he touched her hand. "We'll sit here until you're ready."

They sat in silence a few moments before Rebeka said, "I think I'm ready."

"You sure?" When she nodded, he opened his door, walked around the pickup, and opened her door. He put his hand on the small of her back and led her into the building.

As they entered, a middle-aged lady joined him. "Dr. Ty, Lily told me to get with you about tickets for the Valentines' dinner and dance. Because of the weather last week, we moved it to this Saturday. She knew you'd want to bring her."

"Of course, I'll bring her. I'll need four tickets, three adults and one child."

"Thank you. That'll be thirty-five dollars."

He handed her two twenties, "Keep the change," he pocketed the tickets.

Rebeka had stepped off to the side and watched. He's right. Those young ladies are staring at him like he's a piece of meat. They're waving too. I guess he can't go anywhere without drawing attention.

Tyler noticed Rebeka watching the ladies as one came up to him. "Dr. Butler, I see you bought tickets for the Valentine activities. I don't have a date; in case you're interested."

He slipped his arm around Rebeka. "Sorry, but I have a date." He led her to his family's usual pew.

Elizabeth sat first, with Rebeka beside her, then Tyler, with Lily on the aisle side. Lily offered, "I sit here because I go up for the children's sermon. Uncle Ty says it's easier this way. Otherwise, I'd sit beside you."

"Missy, Beka and I can switch seats if you'd prefer."

"It's okay this time, but next week, I expect to sit by Ms. Rebeka."

He grinned. "I'll see that it happens." His eyes met Rebeka's. "An example of her sassy attitude."

The congregation quieted when the organ music began, and the service proceeded. The sermon was on Romans 3 where Paul addressed that both Jews and Gentiles were sinners. Then explained the righteousness of God freely covered all who have faith in Jesus Christ.

As the congregation sang the final hymn, 'Amazing Grace'. Tyler glanced at Rebeka and noticed moisture in her eyes. The service ended, and Tyler stepped into the aisle and held out his hand for Rebeka to take. She did, then he held her coat as she slipped into it. With his hand on the small of her back he led her to his pickup.

They stood beside Tyler's vehicle, and he asked, "Is there something wrong?"

"I have some things to think about. Father always described God as being judgmental and unforgiving. I need to think this through."

"I understand. If you need to discuss it, I'm always available." He hesitated. "So is Aunt Beth." He opened the pickup door and helped her inside. "Or if you prefer, I'm sure Pastor Ben would be happy to discuss it with you."

*****
At the restaurant, the young female hostess, Pamela, smiled as Tyler and Rebeka entered. Dr. Butler, your table is ready. I'm guessing Elizabeth and Lily will be joining you."

"They will. Thank you."

"Please follow me." Pamela faced Rebeka. "Ma'am, after I seat Dr. Butler, I'll seat you."

Tyler took Rebeka's hand. "This young lady is with me. I made this reservation for four. I'm sure you have a table to accommodate four."

Pink covered Pamela's face. "I'm sorry. I'm not used to you bringing a date."

"I understand. Miss Miller will accompany me from now on." They followed Pamela to the table. Once he'd held the chair for Rebeka, Tyler said, "We'll order our meals when Aunt Beth and Lily arrive." His eyes met Rebeka's. "What would you like to drink?"

"Water."

"And I'll have coffee."

"I'll bring them. Sandy will be your waitress. I'll let her know to wait until the rest of the party arrives."

"Thank you." When Pamela left, Tyler said, "I'm sorry for the mix up."

"Not a problem. I'm sure the young ladies in town aren't used to seeing you with a female. You probably need to let them know we're not a couple."

He touched her hand. "Since you're staying with us, and I'm your birthing coach; I believe we are a couple." His sapphire eyes twinkled. "You should probably get used to it."

"Ty, you may want to rethink us being a couple." When his eyebrows rose, she continued, "The official definition of a couple is 'two persons married, engaged, or otherwise romantically paired'. I'm pretty sure it doesn't fit our situation."

He reached for her hand and his eyes sparkled and he grinned.

"Your captivating eyes and irresistible grin may work on other females, but not me."

"So, you think my eyes are captivating and my grin's irresistible?" When she avoided eye contact, he chuckled. "You're priceless." Her lips formed a pout, and he added, "Buttercup, I meant that as a compliment."

"Thank you."

Both Tyler and Rebeka turned their heads when they heard Lily call to them.

Elizabeth frowned. "Miss Lily, you need to lower your voice in restaurants."

Tyler stood and held the chairs for both females.

*****
When they returned home and their clothes were changed, Elizabeth and Rebeka went into the kitchen and discussed the dinner menu. Tyler and Lily went to the barn.

Tyler heard a car come down the lane and glanced at his watch. I didn't expect Roger this early. He stepped from the barn. "That's not Roger. I wonder who it is." He adjusted this cowboy hat and walked closer. When a man stepped from the car, Tyler said, "Hello. Can I help you?"

The man buttoned a button on his suit jacket. "Yes, I understand Rebeka Miller is living here. I need to speak with her. Please get her for me."

"Who are you?"

"I'm Richard Stuart. I need to speak with her."

"You're Beka's former agent."

Richard glared at Tyler. "Just get Ms. Miller. We have some issues to sort out."

"Anything you want to discuss needs to go through her lawyer. I think you've met him, Roger Whitmore. You can leave."

"Are you Tyler Butler?"

"I am."

"She's living with you. Maybe you can tell me if the baby's mine."

"It's not my place to comment on that."

"I saw your press conference. You said she's fourteen weeks pregnant." When Tyler tilted his head, Richard continued, "I might have been with her around that time."

Tyler raised an eyebrow. "You don't know?"

"Has she said anything about asking for child support?"

"You need to speak with her lawyer."

"Why is she here and why can't I speak with her?"

It's not my place to say why she's here. Her lawyer's speaking for her." Tyler pointed to Richard's car. "You need to leave. Sorry you've wasted your time."

Tyler watched Richard drive down the lane and continued to watch until the car was out of sight.

He called, "Missy, we need to go inside. Beka and I need to talk." Once Lily took his offered hand, they went inside.

*****
In the living room, Lily and Zeke cuddled together with a book as Tyler went into the kitchen. "Aunt Beth, I thought Beka was with you."

Elizabeth nodded toward the backyard. "She's outside. She said she had some things to think about. Why?"

"Richard Stuart was just here. I need to talk with her."

*****
Tyler walked out the sliding glass door. His tone harsh as he asked, "What are you doing outside?"

She stopped swinging and stood. "I didn't know I couldn't come outside and swing."

"Excuse me." Tyler hesitated. "I need a do over."

"What?" She watched Tyler go back into the house. What's a do over?

Walking back outside, Tyler said, "Buttercup, I'm glad you're enjoying the fresh air."

"Thank you. I'm not sure what a 'do over is'."

"I shouldn't have come out and spoken to you like I did. Of course, you can go outside. I'm sorry."

"Can I ask why you did?"

He pointed to the wooden yard swing. "Do you mind if I sit beside you?" She agreed, and he continued, "Richard Stuart was just here and wanted to speak with you." Her eyes started to tear up. "I told him to leave and any questions he had he needed to contact Roger." After a few silent moments, he continued, "He wanted to know if you were wanting child support."

Her eyes widened as her hand covered her mouth. "No!"

"Again, I told him to talk with your lawyer."

"Thank you." Rebeka remained quiet and then stood. "I need to leave. I can't bring you any more trouble."

He reached for her hand. "Buttercup, you're not going anywhere until this baby is safely here and you're back on your feet."


HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!!

We leave Saturday for vacation and will be traveling to north central Missouri. We drive it in two days. When we were younger, we drove it in one day, but not anymore. I probably won't post on Sunday, because of traveling. Unless Harley, we travel with my dachshund, gets up early. If he does, then I'll post before we leave the hotel. My husband is NOT a morning person, so I always wait until he's ready. LOL I will post Monday.
My granddaughter, AriAnna, is graduating from veterinarian tech school, I get to see my new great granddaughter, Ada Mae, and the following weekend we'll go so St. Louis where I'll get to see Charlotte and Eleanor. I'm sure I'll have many stories to write.

~~~~~
Rebeka Miller - our heroine, she's twenty -two, a romance award winning author, extremely old fashioned

Dr. Tyler Butler - 'Ty' an ER doctor, raising his niece, Lily.

Richard Stuart - Rebeka's agent and rich spoilt brat, a not nice person

Amber Wilson - Rebeka's personal assistant and best friend

Peter Dawson - Tyler's friend and part-time ranch hand

Elizabeth - 'Aunt Beth', helping raise Lily and helped raise Tyler after parents died

Christina - Elizabeth's close friend

Lily - 'Missy', Tyler's niece, 5 years old

Lori - Tyler's deceased sister and mother of Lily

Zeke - Golden Retriever mix, family dog

Roger Whitmore - a lawyer and Tyler's best friend

Dr. Heather Sharp - OB/GYN and Tyler's childhood friend

Ruth and Elijah Miller - Rebeka's parents