"Not if I can figure out a way to shove both of them into community service instead."

"I like it." His mother grew quiet as she picked up her coffee. Her gaze was focused on her mug when she asked, "And what about Amber?"

"I went to see her. I wanted to get her side of the story. Understand where she's been all this time."

"And?"

"And she told me why she signed the papers. Why she gave me to you." He reached for his mother's hand. "Why she made the best decision of my life."

"Oh, Landon." The gaze she'd held fixed on the coffee lifted, tears spilling from her eyes. "I've been so afraid I lost you."

"You can't lose me."

"I thought I did. That whole thing with Kincade, and then Amber's return . . . All of it."

Had he really put her through that?

"If you even thought that was a possibility, it's on me. You've been nothing but wonderful to me my whole life. You took me in and you made us a family. You can't lose me."

He stood and pulled her into his arms and held tight.

Amber McGee had given him life, and she loved him. Had always loved him. But Louisa Mills had given him the foundation and the home and all the love that really mattered. She'd helped him build a new life-a good life-and more than that, she'd paved the way for his future.

To another woman who meant everything to him.

"Now," he whispered against his mother's hair, just above her ear, "let me tell you about this wonderful woman I met. Her name's Daphne, and I know you're going to love her."

About the Author.

Lifetouch Portrait Studios Inc. Used with permission.

Addison Fox can't remember a time when words weren't a part of her life. In addition to being an avid reader, she loves writing novels about strong-willed and exciting heroes and heroines-individuals who are meant for each other and who deserve their happily ever after. After she makes them work for it, of course!.

First published in 2010, Addison has written across romance genres, including paranormal, contemporary, and romantic suspense. A romantic at heart, she'll take her heroes any way she can get them-from ancient warriors to computer geeks to sexy cowboys. She's not picky, but she is deeply grateful her readers are willing to come along for the ride.

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