Free Stopping Traffic (A Back to School Romance) (Love at The Crossroads) by Pat Simmons Page A

understanding.
    “I guess this is a little late, but to clear my conscience I have to ask…is Lindsay’s father out of the picture, or is there a chance for reconciliation where I need to step aside?” He willed her to say that there were no obstacles. Royce watched her body language for his answer before she even uttered a sound.
    Although he was very attracted to her physically, family was important and he believed every man should do the right thing. If only Hershel had let him use Brandon to sco ut around for information.
    As he waited, Candace’s eyes teared up. Immediately, Royce’s slump ed body went on alert. Maybe Lindsay’s father had put her through some kind of drama and it was painful for her to talk about it.
    Gritting his teeth, Royce felt guilty for stirring up those emotions. It took all his will power not to reach out and comfort her.
    Sniffing, Candace mustered a weak smile. “Lindsay never met her father. Daniel was a good man, husband and would have made a great father, but he was killed crossing the street three months before she was born,” Candace quietly explained, bowing her head. “Jesus gave me comfort. Prayer and counseling gave me strength. Without question, Solae and her mother have been my support system.”
    “I’m sorry to hear that about your late husband. I can’t imagine how you must feel. That child’s accident must have caused the memories of your own personal loss to resurface.”
    There was so much he wanted to know about her. Royce documented her every movement and expression. From the rapid batting of her lashes, Royce guessed she was fighting back the pain. This was not what he envisioned for their first real meeting.
    As the silence stretched between them, Royce battled his brain on how to recover the light conversation they shared before her revelation.
    Candace smiled again. This time it was genuine. “You made a lasting impression on Lindsay. I’ve learned more fire prevention tips listening to her than I have watching crime shows.”
    “Good for her.” Royce winked. “So what’s your favorite show?”
    “Law & Order.”
    “Good choice.”
    “But you were the hero on career day. Lindsay said all the girls liked the lady dancer, but everybody liked Mr. Firefighter because you brought them stickers, coloring books and other goodies.”
    As if she heard her name, Lindsay skipped up to them. The neat little girl who arrived to the party had vanished, replaced by this one with dirt on previously pristine white top and strands of thick black hair that had escaped a hairband.
    After hugging her mother, she hesitated, looking at Royce. “Hi, Mr. Fireman.” She waved, but didn’t leave Candace’s side.
    “Hi Lindsay, don’t you look cute today,” Royce said, making the girl bashful.
    “What do you say?” Her mother prompted while gently tugging on her daughter’s ponytail.
    Giggling, Lindsay thanked him, then took off as if she was merely checking in or checking up on her mother. Candace watched as she rejoined a group of girls.
    Royce observed the tenderness between them, wondering if there would be room for him to squeeze in as a third wheel. He had an edict never to get involved with another woman who had a child. It was easier to end a relationship if children weren’t a factor. But that was before Candace. If it wasn’t for her sweet little girl, Royce would have never met her.
    He got caught staring when she faced him again. A ray of sunshine captured and highlighted her pretty brown eyes. “Have you ever been married or do you have any children?” She switched the tables on him.
    Linking his hands together, Royce shook his head. “No, I’ve never been a husband or father, but I’m told I’m a great uncle.”
    He grinned; she chuckled, then she began to toy with him. “Let me guess. You haven’t found the right one or you’re not ready or…”
    “The right one…hmm.” He stroked the rough hairs on his chin. “That’s a n easy one.