Tabitha: Always a Bridesmaid: Prescott Hill, #2

Chapter One

"T abby Cat, do you know where the plans are for the new addition?"

Tabitha Dailey looked up from her computer and forced a smile toward her father, Reverend Alfred Dailey, minister for the congregation at The Chapel on the Hill. The nickname grated. She was a grown woman of twenty-eight, not a child, and they were at work. She never called him Daddy when speaking to him in front of parishioners. Couldn’t he keep the cutesy pet names out of the office?

Of course I know where they are, she muttered to herself, then spoke louder. They’re right here, ready for the contractor. You made your decision, right?

Her father scowled. I said I’d have one chosen by today. Have you ever known me not to follow through on a project?

Never. She threw him the smile that always made him happy. Would he ever realize she wasn’t?

I had hoped to break ground by the middle of March, and we’ve only got a few weeks until then. I understand it’ll be a bit to get permits and such. You’ve got the contracts ready to be signed, correct?

Right here, also. She tapped the credenza behind her with everything they’d need when meeting with the new contractor. Hopefully, it wasn’t old man Bader and his son. They both drank too much. Unfortunately, her father had the credo that every man could be redeemed, and he should help those in need. What they didn’t need was a crooked addition that would fall apart with a stiff wind.

She’d skimmed through each of the proposals when they came in and knew immediately that some wouldn’t make the cut. If they weren’t one of the congregation here at the Chapel in tiny little Prescott Hill, Virginia, they were plum out of luck. Not that her father would ever let anyone know it was one of his requirements.

Who did you decide on? The candidates were limited due to the congregation requirement, but her father had still wanted to go through everything and check out references. Like he couldn’t have given them all a reference himself, but she supposed the way they constructed a building addition might be very different from how they conducted themselves in church. For their sake, she hoped it was true. The few who’d qualified wouldn’t have been any choice of hers.

Intent on the book in his hands, he hadn’t heard her. Nothing new. She loved her father. He was a wonderful man, but too often she wished he’d pay as much attention to her as he paid to his lost sheep. Maybe she needed to get lost more often.

A giggle made its way up through her throat, and she caught it before it escaped. Wouldn’t the people of this town get a kick out of sweet, little Tabitha Daily, preacher’s daughter, getting into trouble? Her best friends, Magnolia, Aubrey, and Kayla wouldn’t be surprised. They knew how much she wanted to blow this popsicle stand of a town. Everyone else thought she would stay beside her dad as church secretary forever. Not if she could help it.

As her dad ambled closer, she clicked on the open tab and exited the theater’s schedule. No sense him asking what movie she was checking times for. If she even suggested she might want to see a superhero or science fiction show, he’d get on his high horse about how ungodly they are and how she’d be better off spending her time in Bible study. Or at least watching some old movie from the forties when people had morals and scruples.

I called the new man. He’s going to meet us here shortly to sign the contracts and get the updated plans. I like the suggestions he’s made for the addition, and he’s very well thought of in this community. I know he’ll do an excellent job.

He? It’s just one person, not a company?

Finally looking at her, he nodded. Yes, last minute bid. Only got it a few days ago. He came in far under what everyone else had quoted. I like that. Like that he didn’t want to gouge us in God’s house and get rich on the congregation’s money.

Gouge us? She’d seen the bids, and most of them were fairly reasonable, especially the people from this community. Who had underbid all of them? Someone who already had money and didn’t need it? The Prescotts and the Sinclairs were two of the wealthiest families in town, though neither of them owned a construction company. Most of the ones in the area barely got by, and the one who’d been building the new homes by the highway hadn’t put in a bid. Why would they when they’d be making millions once those homes sold to new wealthy families who’d been flocking to the region lately?

Her father liked to think it was because of the church, his sermons, and the potluck dinner they had every Sunday after service. The gathering was famous for miles around, and many people came to socialize and enjoy the food. It was one of the reasons they needed an addition. She thought more people were getting away from the cities, since so many could work remotely now. Prescott Hill had an excellent internet provider, and setting up shop in your home was easier than ever. These city folks could now enjoy the beautiful rolling hills and farms of western Virginia while still earning their big city paychecks. Donovan Sinclair, her friend Maggie’s fiancé, had done just that so he could be with her.

A sigh drifted out as she thought of how happy Maggie was. Would she ever find a love like that? Where a guy would give up almost everything for the woman of his dreams? Not with any of the men in this town. Even if they wanted her, she didn’t want them. She had plans, and they didn’t include being a church secretary for the rest of her life. Now to find a way to support herself when she moved away.

Oh, here he is now. Her father gazed out the window into the parking lot, then moved to the door to greet their new contractor. Of course, you know him. He comes to church every Sunday.

Tabitha rounded her desk. The man who’d entered was thin enough to hide behind her father’s sturdy figure. They shook hands, then their new contractor stepped past and smiled.

Tabitha’s heart dropped when she saw the shaggy brown hair and lean muscles on the tall figure. How in the world would she ever get through this addition with Wesley Roberts doing the work?

Wesley Roberts tipped his head at Tabitha and smiled. Too bad her own smile was forced. He knew the difference, had seen her fake one far too often. Why didn’t she like him? Most people did.

Hi, Tabitha. It’s nice to see you again. You look pretty today.

Understatement. She was gorgeous with her long red hair that floated down her back with just a hint of wave. Adorable freckles that danced across her nose. Those lips that looked like they’d been kissed by strawberries. The fact she got him spouting poetry, even just in his mind, hadn’t gone unnoticed. It happened far too often when he was in her presence.

The object of his affection glanced skeptically down at her simple blue dress, and her mouth pressed into a flat line. Yeah, thanks. Are you the contractor for the addition?

At his nod, her eyes narrowed. Aren’t you still working for Maggie? She didn’t say anything about you leaving.

I’m living in the bunkhouse until I get my own place finished up, and I help out when I can. However, I’ve been training Talia to do all the building repairs, and with the other kids there, I’m not needed as much. I figured I’d start to branch out and get other building jobs around town.

The truth was he’d never planned to stay at Magnolia’s for the long haul. He’d stepped in when her father had passed because he knew she needed guidance on what to do with the farm and he’d been at a crossroads. Helping her get her buildings in better shape and working on the farm while living in the bunkhouse had allowed him the time to figure out his next step in life. Sad that at thirty-two he was finally getting his act together.

You’re working on your own place? What? You don’t like living with a bunch of smelly guys who have been toiling over the land for endless hours?

He loved her dry sense of humor. It’s the highlight of my day, but there comes a time when a man’s got to make it on his own. Truer words were never spoken.

Where’s your new place? One of those fancy condos near the highway? The lift of her lip showed what she thought of that.

Before he could answer, Reverend Dailey cleared his throat. The contract, Tabitha. That’s what Mr. Roberts has come here for, not chitchat. Save that for the Sunday potluck.

Wes wished he could chitchat with Tabitha more than just at the potluck. Most of the time, she ignored him. Ever since he’d met her a few years ago, he’d tried to catch her attention. Nothing seemed to work. What did he have to do to get her to view him as more than just another parishioner?

Besides being pretty, she was kind, funny, and intelligent. All traits he admired in a woman. She was also humble, which wasn’t something he’d come across in his previous life in Roanoke. Her soft country beauty was a breath of fresh air when compared to the overly made up and perfumed ladies he’d escorted to events whenever his grandfather had beckoned. The more he saw her, the stronger his feelings grew.

This quaint little town of Prescott Hill was exactly what he needed to restart his life. If only Tabitha would give him a chance. She did something to him whenever she was around, but she’d blocked every attempt he’d made to ask her out.

Working on the church addition hadn’t been in his plans, but with Maggie Popham hiring all the kids and not needing him as much, he’d found himself with extra time. With any luck, being near Tabitha every day would allow her to see him in a different light, and they could get to know each other better.

Reverend Dailey waved his hand toward the small conference room next to the church office. We can go in here to discuss the project, and I can answer any questions you have.

As Wes followed the man inside, he peeked at Tabitha. Reverend Dailey saw his pause and nodded. Tabitha, why don’t you get a cup of coffee for Mr. Roberts? How do you take it?

Wes waved her off. I’m good. Thanks. Will Tabitha be involved with the project? Should she be in here with us? I understand she’s essential to running the church.

He’d heard Maggie say that at one of the potlucks, though it hadn’t sounded like it was a good thing when she’d said it. Tabitha’s expression had dimmed, and he’d seen pain cross her face.

Of course she is. I couldn’t run this place without her.

The preacher’s words didn’t get the response he’d been hoping for. Tabitha’s mouth tightened, and her eyes hardened.

I suppose it wouldn’t be a bad idea for us to take some notes in case you have any questions. Tabitha, can you grab a notepad and jot down any information we’ll need?

Absolutely. I’ll be right in.

In the room, Reverend Daily took the seat at the head of the table, so Wes sat to his right. When Tabitha arrived a moment later, he rose and started to pull out the chair next to him, but she crossed the room to sit on the other side of the table. Not unexpected with the way she’d avoided him in the past.

Shall we begin? The reverend slid the contract across the table until it sat in front of Wes, then retrieved another copy for himself.

They spent the next hour going over the specs, him asking questions and the minister hemming and hawing about what he wanted and when he wanted it by. Not all of his goals were attainable.

Finally, the pastor said, I’m not all that good with details like hardware and curtains. I’m far too busy with my congregation to be bothered with the fripperies. Tabitha is the one you’ll need to discuss those little things with. I hope you don’t mind.

Wes felt like doing a cartwheel, but the redhead’s stern expression brought him back to earth. It’ll be my pleasure. Thank you for trusting me with this project, Reverend Dailey. I won’t let you or the congregation down.

Good, good. Now, Tabitha, make sure he signs that contract, then give him a copy and make a few for our files. We’ll have the first check ready to hand to you once I get the list of building supplies you’ll be needing.

Wes stood and shook the minister’s hand. It shouldn’t take me more than a few days to get a list and pricing for the initial supplies.

Excellent. All that will go to Tabitha. I’ll see you later. I’ve got a meeting soon.

Once the reverend was gone, Tabitha gathered her notepad and pencil. Did you need any of this information typed up?

He scribbled his name on the contract and picked it up. I can just take that paper if it’s easier. I don’t want to make any more work for you.

I’m not sure you’d be able to read my chicken scratch. It’s a cross between shorthand and my failed cursive. But I can read it.

Don’t rush to get it done on my account. Whenever you have free time is fine. I’ve got quite a bit to do before I can even break ground. Permits, renting equipment, surveying.

Great. Let me know if you need anything. Tabitha crossed the room, but Wes stepped in front of her.

I’m sorry if what I said earlier upset you.

What are you talking about?

When I suggested to your father that you were essential to running the church. You didn’t seem to like it.

She shrugged and tried to pass.

He quickly handed her the contract. Don’t forget this. I’m looking forward to working with you, Tabitha.

Her lips pursed. Listen, farm boy, we may have to work together to get this addition built, but don’t go getting any ideas about us. You’ll do your thing, and I’ll do mine. Got it?

He beat her to the door, then bowed low. As you wish.

Chapter Two

Tabitha’s father marched out of his office with a smiling couple behind him. The expression on his face was one she knew well. These people were getting married. Today. Right now. Why couldn’t anyone book things in advance?

Can you find Daryl and bring him to the chapel? And put your nice dress on, please. As soon as I get the paperwork finished, these young people would like to become one in holy matrimony.

Congratulations. Her smile was genuine, even though she was groaning inside. I’ll be right along. Once she found the handyman who cleaned the church, so they’d have a Best Man. She got to be the Maid of Honor. Again.

As she dug in the coat closet for one of the dresses she kept there for just such an occasion, she remembered Daryl had said he had a doctor’s appointment today. Rats. They had to have another witness to the ceremony.

Whistling outside the window caught her attention, and she glanced up. Wes. Well, he’d said he’d be here today to start marking where the new addition would be. Guess he’d have to take a short break.

She tapped on the window and motioned for him to come inside. His head cocked to the side in confusion, so she smiled wider and waved him in. Yeah, inviting him closer wasn’t typical of her.

When he peeked in her office, he said, You wanted to see me?

Yes. Come on. It’s time for a wedding. She picked up her dress and headed toward the ladies’ room.

His eyes perked up. You want to marry me? Kind of sudden, isn’t it? You haven’t even said yes to any of my requests for a date. My charm finally got to you, huh?

Her frown punctured his bubble. We have a couple in love who apparently can’t wait to get married. You get to be a witness. Take that brown suit coat in the closet and put it on. I’ll be out in a second.

The dress she had was easy on and easy off specifically for this reason, so she was back in her office in no time. The requisite silk flowers were pulled out of drawer, and she waved again for Wes to follow. The suit coat had been her father’s and was more than a little baggy on his thinner frame. He pushed his shaggy brown hair to the side as he stared at her. It honestly wasn’t that long, just not the traditional men’s cut her father expected of grown males. She kind of liked it, had wondered what it would feel like if she ran her fingers through it.

Stop. He is off limits. He wants to stay in town.

You’ll do. This shouldn’t take more than fifteen minutes, unless my father gets long winded in his speech. Let’s hope he doesn’t.

One eyebrow rose on his face. You do this often?

More than I’d like. You know the saying, ‘Always a bridesmaid, never a bride’? That’s me. The quintessential bridesmaid.

If you really want to be a bride … He slipped his hand into hers and grinned.

Don’t even think that way, farm boy. I’m not ready for that yet.

She stalked off but caught his