Crazy For You by Marie Higgins Page A

choice. He had to return.
     
    * * * *
     
    Kendra took a deep breath and walked into her parents’ house. “Hello?”
    Her father walked out of his study and hugged her. “What a surprise to see you. If you’ve come to discuss wedding details with your mother, she’s at her friend’s house right now.” He pulled out his cell. “Let me call her—”
    “No, Dad. I came to talk to you.”
    “Well, certainly, my dear.”
    He pulled her to the green and pink sofa—her mother’s favorite chair—and sat. She twisted her hands in her lap until realizing her father noticed her discomfort. Taking a deep breath, she calmed herself. Swallowing, she moistened her dry throat.
    “Dad, I came to talk to you about Terrel . I…found some things that have me very confused, and extremely worried.”
    “What did you find?”
    “In doing some research the other day, I came across some old newspaper articles.” She explained to him about what the articles were about. “I think he’s been lying to me all this time.” She shook her head. “Actually, I know he’s been lying to me.”
    Frowning, her father patted her hand, but kept quiet, which was what she wanted from him at this moment.
    “And I think he has Joshua Montgomery locked away in a mental institution.” She explained about the file and Doctor Goodwin being paid so much.
    Her father’s forehead creased as his expression turned dark. “That does sound fishy, doesn’t it?”
    “That’s what I thought, too.”
    “Not to worry, dear daughter. I know a few members who are on the state’s medical board, I’ll make sure Doctor Goodwin’s history is researched thoroughly. ”
    Her father studied her closely through a narrowed gaze. “There is more, isn’t there?”
    She nodded and began twisting her hands again. “I’m canceling the wedding.” Tears gathered in her eyes, but relief flooded through her.
    “You know your mother and I will support you in this decision.” He wrapped his arms around her, holding her tight.
    She cried on his shoulder, enjoying the closeness she had always shared with her father. It was times like this she knew would stay in her mind forever.
    “I will have Terrel checked out as well. I have connections with the Feds, and I could get a tail put on Terrel since you think he’s into drugs.”
    She pulled back and sniffled. “No, not yet. I’ll let you know first.”
    “Whatever you wish, my dear.” He kissed her forehead.
    After she said goodbye to him, she walked back out to her car and drove home. Little by little, the tight knot around her heart had disappeared. Ever since she’d doubted her feelings for Terrel , she’d been getting headaches. Now the stress had been relieved. She’d definitely made the right decision.
    Eli greeted her at the door when she walked in. She didn’t have to say a word. Neither did he . They fell into each other’s arms as if kismet controlled everything.
    When his mouth captured hers, all problems ceased to exist. Tonight all that mattered was being in his arms.
    For a while they held and kissed on the couch, and also talked about their lives. She actually did more talking, but Eli was a great listener.
    Pulling back, she gazed into his amazing green eyes. “This feels so nice right now—just us holding each other.”
    He smiled. “Nothing will ever compare to this feeling I’m experiencing right now.”
    “I know .”
    “ Kendra , in such a short time, you’ve created a permanent place in my heart.”
    Tears filled her eyes. “Once again, I feel the same.” She pushed his long hair out of his face, realizing that she didn’t care how shaggy and unkempt it was. He was still the most handsome man she’d ever known and ever loved. “I know I shouldn’t be feeling this so soon, but I think...I think I’m in love with you.”
    “Oh , Kendra —” He cupped her face and brought it down to his as his mouth captured hers.
    He didn’t kiss her passionately as they had before, but