Free The Best Christmas Ever by Cheryl Wolverton

glanced at her across the courtroom with a pitying look. Of course she hadn’t known then what Justin’s lawyer was about to present to the court. Justin had definitely gone all out and found the best lawyer for the job.
    Her lawyer had scrambled and tried to help her. But of course grief had been accepted as Justin’s excuse, and expert witnesses testified that he had gotten through the worst of his mourning and on and on and on. She had been furious, believing Mickie belonged with her, that Justin was neglecting his daughter.
    But her fury had been minor compared with Justin’s when he’d told her never to come near his daughter again. She had actually felt chilled at his threats.
    That seemed like aeons ago. And Justin acted as if he’d forgiven her.
    She rinsed her hair, stepped out of the shower and dried off. Perhaps he just needed a sitter. But why would he be glad she was back in his life unless he had forgiven her?
    She smoothed cream on her skin, then powdered herself before applying a spritz of perfume. She’d always loved to pamper herself after her bath. All three containers were almost empty, leftovers from her other life, as she thought of her life before her job and engagement ended. But she’d have some money now to indulge her one luxury.
    Still, as she gathered up her toiletries, she thought of the person providing her with the paycheck.
    How could he forgive her? Why? Why? Why? And why had he let her into his house?
    Back in her room, she put her things away, turned out the lights, opened the curtains, then climbed up onto the big four-poster bed. Father, Justin’s so wonderful as a dad, she began. I never realized it. I was so wrong in my judgment of him. There’s no way he can forget what I did. Is there? I doubt I’ll ever forget it.
    Sarah sighed and pulled the white lacy pillow into her lap, then clung to it. How can I, she whispered finally, admitting to the enormity of what she’d done, when it was Amy I wronged as well as Justin? And then there’s Mickie.
    Sarah slipped under the covers and scooted back against the headboard. The darkness surrounded her; the only light in her room the moonlight that shone through the windows. A small smile curved her mouth and she relaxed as she thought of Mickie.
    Thank you, Father, for the opportunity to get to know Mickie. Had You not interceded, I don’t know if I’d ever have gotten up the nerve to come visit her. She’s wonderful. She’s so sweet and kind and fun. She’s so fresh and innocent. Sarah felt old and weary next to Mickie’s innocence, but she didn’t say that. I missed Amy’s companionship and didn’t know how much I was missing out on getting to know her daughter. Thank you, Father, for Your love and for Your gentleness and kindness. Help me to be what Mickie and Justin need.
    Sighing, she slid down in bed. Despite the pain of losing my fiancé, I’m happy now. I realize I had drifted from You and hadn’t cleared up my past. Give me courage to make up to Justin for the wrongs I paid him. And, Father, I just know this is going to work out great with Mickie! Despite what Justin says, Mickie seems like the perfect little girl. I really don’t think I’m going to have problems there. Just, maybe, the housekeeping part. So give Justin patience as I learn exactly when he likes to eat and things like that. Amen.
    Feeling better after praying, she smiled as she closed her eyes. She would be a good housekeeper and a caring companion for Mickie. Things weren’t going to be so bad after all.

Chapter Seven
    “I t’s a Sarah Connelly on the line, Mr. Warner.”
    Justin pushed back from the paperwork he’d been working on. Brushing a hand through his hair, he leaned forward and snagged the phone.
    “Sarah?” he questioned. She’d been baby-sitting for him for over a week now and had never called him at the office. He couldn’t imagine what in the world she’d phone him for, unless it was an emergency.
    “I can’t find