Need You (The Winters Family Series Book 2) Read online

  Need You

  The Winters Family Series: Book Two

  Terra Kelly

  Contents

  Winters Family Crest

  Join “The Menu!”

  Synopsis

  Prologue

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Chapter 10

  Chapter 11

  Chapter 12

  Chapter 13

  Chapter 14

  Epilogue

  Recipes made at Lexie Eats

  Alyssa’s Favorite Pizza: Wood-Smoked Pork Shoulder, Arugula, and Mushroom Pizza

  Top-Selling Recipe at Lexie Eats- Kitchen Sink Beef Brisket Chili

  Aunt Anna’s Special Apple Pumpkin Strudel

  Lexie’s Favorite Strawberry Cheese Danish

  Lexie’s Special Mac n’Cheese Pizza with Beef Brisket and Vegetables

  Pulled Pork Mac n’Cheese

  You’re Mine: Excerpt

  Join “The Menu!”

  Would You Like To Leave A Review?

  About Terra Kelly

  Also by Terra Kelly

  Acknowledgments

  Curious about my newsletter, “The Menu,” where you can see what’s cooking in the writing cave.

  * * *

  The Menu is a bi-monthly newsletter with updates, exclusive contests, giveaways, and sneak peeks into my future works.

  * * *

  Want more information? Check out the back of Need You for all the details–I’ll see you on the other side!

  * * *

  Happy reading! oxox

  Synopsis

  Two-years ago, Alyssa Benson tragically lost the only man who captured her heart. Trying to escape the past, she and her daughter, Lexie, packed up and left in search of the perfect place to heal. Even after all this time, her past is her present. Can the new handsome executive chef with forest green eyes change her future?

  Alex Winters is trading out the big city life and heading to Boise for a new chef position. His life used to consist of 15 hours a day in a kitchen, a different woman each week, and no plans for the future. Then he meets the blonde beauty who owns the cafe.

  Alyssa believes she could only love one man, the man she lost. Can Alex convince Alyssa that everyone deserves a second chance?

  Need You includes laugh out loud scenes, drool-worthy heroes and equally drool-worthy recipes!

  Dedication

  This book is dedicated to my beautiful-funny-amazing niece Sophia, you have such a big heart and love so much. Having you as my inspiration for the Lexie character made it more fun to write this book.

  I love you so much, love bug!

  Prologue

  “Ohhhhhh... oh my god, Derek, are you okay? Derek, answer me?” Alyssa could see him sitting there looking out the window; his face was ashen and still. When she tried to look down, there was a sharp pain that shot straight up her back. Her legs were pinned; her hands were limp. The pounding in her head felt like she was standing next to a sub-woofer at a Metallica concert.

  “Alexandra, baby, can you hear me? Oh, please God, don’t take them from me. Please.” Alyssa could feel herself fade, the pounding in her head increasing with each second that passed. As she blacked out, she noticed someone run toward the car. Plus, there had been a faint sound. Sirens? As everything dimmed, she tried to scream, but no sound came… just blackness.

  Alyssa sat on the top of the hill at Camel’s Back Park in Boise, Idaho. She took in the stunning scenery and could remember that day like it was yesterday. It had been their ten-year wedding anniversary; Derek, Alexandra, and Alyssa were heading home after a beautiful day with their family. Alexandra was in her car seat behind Alyssa singing Itsy Bitsy Spider and giggling. One minute they were all singing and laughing together. Then Derek stopped at a light, and for a moment Derek turned toward Alyssa to flash his radiant smile. When he went through the intersection, out of nowhere a full-size pickup slammed into the driver’s side. She could still see his radiant smile if she closed her eyes tight enough.

  As she listened to the children play at the park, she wished some of her memories would just fade away. Instead, she could still remember the strong smell of antiseptic and knew she had been in a hospital the first time she woke up. Every once in awhile, she would hear murmured voices, but could not make-out what they were saying. It felt like she was in this hazy dream, almost like she was stuck on the same channel for days, or even months. One night… or day, she couldn’t remember? There had been this soft touch across her fingers, then a small hand closed around her thumb. A delicate kiss was placed on the top of her hand. Then this gentle little body was wrapping their arms around her waist and resting their head on her chest. She could remember soft wisps of hair tickling her nose and the faint smell of lavender and mint. She knew at that moment her daughter Lexie was back in her arms again.

  When she woke up, the doctor’s let her know she had sustained two broken legs, a severe concussion, and had bleeding on her brain. There were several cuts and bruises all over her body and stitches still in place. She was put in an induced coma for two weeks to reduce the swelling on her brain. Alexandra, thankfully had only sustained a few minor injuries.

  Alyssa could remember the moment she woke up; she had opened her eyes to beautiful blue eyes staring right back at her. The lights in the hospital room were so bright she could feel the effects of a headache surfacing. Now, as Alyssa sat cross-legged on a large boulder at the park, she hoped someday she could let go of those painful memories and the empty feeling she felt inside.

  When her mind wandered back on the healing process, she shook her head. Not only had she been in two casts, but she had to wear them for ten long, excruciating weeks. When they removed her casts, she was ready to grab Lexie and disappear. Alyssa loved her family, she did. But after Derek died, it felt like both families were in every room in her home. Her parents made sure someone was with Lexie and Alyssa all day… every day. When her legs were free from the casts, she had hoped to find a little solitude. Instead, they continued to be two steps behind Alyssa with every move she made.

  It was almost two years ago to the day. Which made her wonder about her family? Were they angry with her decision? Maybe it was time to take a trip back to Michigan to see them. She knew both sets of parents would be disappointed they were not included in Lexie’s life. The night Alyssa and Lexie left had been like any other night; both her mom and mother-in-law were hovering over her, checking to make sure she was okay… again. Alyssa just kept to her normal routine the day she planned to leave. When everyone left for the night, Alyssa packed what they would need. She grabbed Alexandra, placed her in the car seat, and drove. Her plan was to drive until her body was too tired to go any further.

  * * *

  She left a note and placed it on the refrigerator:

  * * *

  I love you all so much. Derek was our shining star with his radiant smile. Every minute, of every day, I think about him, cry for him, and miss my beautiful husband. It’s hard sitting in the home Derek and I created together. Lexie and I need to take time, heal away from the constant reminders surrounding us. We need to find a place we can create together, settle for awhile, and breathe. I know you all need to take your time, too. You have been caring for us for too long. We will come back; I promise you that. For now, we are tucked warmly in your hearts. We love you with all our heart and soul.

  * * *

  Love, Alyssa and Alexandra

  * * *

&n
bsp; As she sat at the park in Boise; she thought about the letter she wrote to her family. Wow, it was two years ago. She thought she would be away for a few weeks, maybe even a month. Never in her wildest imagination did she plan to be away for two years. Now, here she was with a very successful cafe, friends who were like family, and her rock, Lexie. Her daughter could only remember snippets of her time with her dad. For Alyssa, she still struggled every day with Derek’s death. The one thing that kept her going: Her sweet daughter. Alexandra looked just like her daddy, especially her radiant smile.

  When they drove that night, Alyssa was unsure if she was making the right choice. She drove for two days straight, then stopped. The exit she took said, “Boise, Idaho ten miles.” She looked back at her sleeping daughter, “Looks like we’re heading to Boise, baby girl.”

  She remembered having enough money to keep them safe for at least a year. Derek always made sure there was money saved in case something happened. He had a secure full-time job while Alyssa stayed home caring for Alexandra. She had a culinary degree, but after she had Lexie, she put her career on hold. One memory of Derek still made her smile; he had been holding Lexie and suggested opening a cafe together. When Derek had been home, they loved cooking together, and creating fun new recipes. Alyssa could remember her look of surprise at his idea. Thinking back on that memory, she knew Derek would happy with where her life was today.

  When they had first arrived in Boise, they stayed at a hotel for a week. Then they found a small two-bedroom house with a little backyard for Lexie to play. One day, they were driving around exploring the city. Lexie liked car rides and would point with delight at all the pretty colors. As Alyssa turned down a street, she noticed a green sign that said, “Camel’s Back Park.” That day she discovered her dream.

  They were passing buildings when suddenly Lexie seemed so excited about a bright orange sign. Alyssa turned around so her daughter could enjoy it more. That was when she noticed it was attached to a beautiful stand-alone building. Alyssa decided that the building would be perfect for a little cafe. Four months after living in Boise, she opened her own place.

  Chapter 1

  The house was still with just the sound of ‘tic-tock’ from the clock on the wall. Alyssa was trying to avoid having to start her day for a few more minutes. The sun was peeking through her curtains and shining bright on her comforter. As she woke-up, she felt Derek’s presence next to her. She wanted to just reach out and touch his five o’clock shadow, run her hands through his silky dark brown hair. When she put her hand out on the pillow next to her, there was nothing. With a heavy sigh, she rested her hand on the soft fabric. She missed his scent, his smile, him.

  In the hallway, you could hear the soft pitter-patter of footsteps, then the squeak of a door knob turning. Alyssa’s daughter was up and making her way into her room. Sweet little Lexie was now five and full of life. She was the one who gave Alyssa the strength to get up each day.

  They had two rescue cats that Alexandra said they had to have. They were both curled up and sleeping at the foot of the bed. Their names were Blueberry and Chocolate, and they were both identical long-haired black Maine Coons.

  Alyssa stayed still and waited for her daughter to emerge. When she opened her eyes, two little eyes were peeking up at her. Then with a squeal of delight, Lexie jumped up and scared the two cats, before crawling over to Alyssa. With so much happiness, she said, “Morning, Mommy!”

  Alyssa enjoyed her mornings, Lexie always woke up happy. She held out her arms to her daughter. “Morning, precious angel.” They both hugged each other so tight.

  “Careful Mommy, you might pop the stuffing right out of me.” Then Lexie giggled. The sound of her laugh was intoxicating.

  “Well, we can’t have that, can we?” There was something about Alexandra that brought an immediate feeling of calm to Alyssa. She smiled at her daughter. “You hungry, baby?”

  “Yes! I fink I need Aunt Anna’s cinnamon coffee cake?” she said, as she hopped up and down with excitement.

  Alyssa found she only smiled with her daughter. Otherwise, she could not find the energy to put on a happy face. “Well then, I guess we better get dressed and go see Aunt Anna.”

  Lexie jumped off the bed, scaring the cats yet again. “Come on Momma, get up, get up!”

  Alyssa smiled. “I’m coming, I’m coming, keep your pants on,” she said, enjoying their morning ritual. It was cute because they both only wore long nightshirts to bed.

  Lexie looked down, then with a shocked look on her face, she put her arms up. “But Momma, I not wearing any pants!” This was always followed by fits of giggles.

  Alyssa and Lexie arrived at the cafe about 10:00 a.m. The place was packed with every seat filled in the little cafe. You could hear clanking of silverware and loud conversations filling the room. Saturday and Sunday were their busiest days. When she opened the cafe over a year ago, Alyssa was not sure how it would be accepted. She had been someone new coming into a new city and trying to start business. The cafe, “Lexie Eats,” named by Alexandra herself.

  It was open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They served fresh homemade pastries and bread. Aunt Anna, the pastry chef, made everything fresh daily. Missy, Anna’s daughter, helped her make the sweet treats.

  They also served homemade pizzas baked in a brick oven. Barbecued pulled pork, ribs, and brisket came lovingly slow-cooked from their wood smoker. Other options were salads, soups, and breakfast options using the bbq’d meat. The menu was unique, full of flavor, and fun.

  Within the first month that the café opened, word had spread about place. Camel’s Back Park where she liked to run was a very busy place with several trails for runners, hikers, bikers, and people walking their dogs. Everyone would finish their workout and head to the café to fuel up. They were excited to see fun, nutritional options on the menu at Lexie Eats.

  Until a month ago she had a full staff. Alyssa could work but with a flexible schedule for Alexandra. Now, she was in need of a chef. A few weeks ago, she found a potential who felt like the perfect fit. He would arrive on Monday for an in-person interview. His name, Alex Winters. He worked in L.A. as a sous chef, but had lost his job. Alex had shared on their phone interview last week that the restaurant had done some restructuring.

  Alyssa was looking forward to having a full staff again. Poor Alexandra lived at the cafe these days. The customers loved her and the employees adored her. She always wanted to help bake something, and she enjoyed helping at the cash register. Alyssa could see Lexie helping in the kitchen for many years to come.

  When they walked into the cafe, they were both greeted warmly. Lexie was holding Alyssa’s hand as she hopped from foot to foot in anticipation. Aunt Anna was at the pastry case adding some freshly made danishes.

  Anna looked up. “Well look who it is,” she said, walking around the counter. “My sweet girl, Lexie.”

  Lexie ran to the older woman and wrapped her little arms around her waist. “Hi, Aunt Anna! Momma said we could have your cinnamon coffee cake.” She was now jumping up and down from excitement.

  Anna was in her fifties and had two children of her own. When she met Alyssa for the first time, she felt a connection. She knew about Alyssa and Alexandra’s past, which only strengthened their bond. As their relationship grew, Alyssa and Lexie became a part of her family. She loved them both so much. Anna put her hands on her hips. “She did now did she? I think that can be arranged. Grab a seat, sweetie. Do you want milk with your coffee cake?”

  Lexie looked up at her mom. “Do I, Momma?”

  Alyssa smiled, reached over to Lexie and moved a strand of hair behind her ear. “Yes you do, baby girl.”

  The cafe was small, yet inviting. There was seating for 54 people inside and about 16 outside on the patio. Bright colors adorned the walls with pop art from Andy Warhol to Tom Wesselmann. Everyone at the cafe seemed happy and even better, several of the plates would pass in the clean plate club.

  A
t the middle booth, Alex Winters was looking through the menu, impressed with all the options. He arrived in Boise a few days earlier than planned. Since he had a few days to kill, he decided to check out the cafe he would possibly be working at soon.

  The bell on the door rang, Alex glanced up from the menu to see a woman and her daughter walk in. The little girl was precious with loads of energy while the woman seemed curious and took a few moments to glance around the cafe. When the woman glanced in Alex’s direction, he couldn’t take his eyes off her: She was gorgeous. She had long blonde hair that was wavy and hung to the middle of her back. Her face was peppered with freckles and she had piercing caramel eyes. She was voluptuous with curves in all the right places. The woman smiled down at her daughter but he noticed the smile never met her eyes.

  As Alyssa headed to the counter, she noticed tables where customers were without food. Turning to her friend. “Anna, do you need me to help with getting orders? There are a few tables that look like they’re waiting?”

  Anna put her hands up. “Honey, you better ask Rachel, but I know she’s been swamped all morning.”