Crush the Crescent Lake Winery Series Book 2 Read online

  Crush

  The Crescent Lake Winery Series

  Lucinda Race

  MC Two Press

  Contents

  Book 2

  Inspiration

  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

  Chapter 15

  Chapter 16

  Chapter 17

  Chapter 18

  Chapter 19

  Chapter 20

  Chapter 21

  Chapter 22

  Chapter 23

  Chapter 24

  Chapter 25

  Chapter 26

  Chapter 27

  Chapter 28

  Chapter 29

  Chapter 30

  Chapter 31

  Chapter 32

  Chapter 33

  Chapter 34

  Chapter 35

  Love to read?

  Social Media

  About Lucinda

  Book 2

  Crush

  The Crescent Lake Winery Series

  Book 2

  By

  Lucinda Race

  This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

  Copyright © 2021 Lucinda Race

  * * *

  All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce, distribute, or transmit in any form or by any means. For information regarding subsidiary rights, please contact the Author Lucinda Race.

  Editing by Susan Helene Gottfried at West of Mars

  Proofreader Kimberly Dawn

  * * *

  Cover design by Jade Webb www.meetcutecreative.com

  * * *

  Manufactured in the United States of America

  First Edition May 2021

  * * *

  Print Edition ISBN978-1-954520-02-8

  E-book Edition ISBN 978-1-954520-01-1

  Inspiration

  Wine is not just an object of pleasure, but an object of knowledge;

  and the pleasure depends on the knowledge.

  – Roger Scruton

  1

  Anna followed her sister Liza’s minivan to their parents’ house for the traditional Price family post-wedding brunch hosted by Mom and Dad. The April weather was perfect, warm enough to be outside and enjoy the day, but not too hot so people wanted to be in air conditioning. Today they were celebrating Anna’s younger sister Tessa and her new husband Max. Tomorrow they’d be off on their honeymoon.

  This turtle pace caused her fingers to tap on the steering wheel. Her car was meant for hugging curves in the road like yoga pants to her backside. The candy-apple red Benz had been an impulse buy to ignite her fun side again and alleviate the humdrum of her life and career. How had she turned into some old lady by her late thirties?

  The minivan slowed even further and turned up the long gravel driveway to their parents’ home. Daffodils and tulips lined the way, with deep purple pansies adding a splash of contrasting color peeking from under the evergreen and large maple trees.

  Ahead of her, the circular driveway was filled with cars: her siblings and extended family, with a few others she didn’t recognize. More than likely rental cars from Tessa and Max’s out-of-town wedding guests. She parked so she could make a quick getaway, leaving the keys in the ignition before running up the front steps after Liza. Her nephews, Johnny and George, came flying through the door and into Liza’s open arms. Despite being six and seven and tall for their ages, she was still able to scoop them up and cover their faces with kisses. The boys looked like their uncles, but the freckles were from their dad. There was a time when Anna thought she’d have a couple of kids wanting to leap into her arms and the familiar pain of regret that she didn’t stung.

  “Hey, Mom, you’ll never guess what.” Johnny was first to wriggle from her arms. “Uncle Leo said we can spend the night at his house whenever we want.”

  George interjected, “But we have to ask you first.”

  “So, were you good for Mimi and Poppy?” She looked from one sweet face to the other.

  They both nodded. “Yup.”

  She ruffled their hair. “Good.”

  In unison, they asked, “So when can we have another sleepover?”

  “Tonight?” George asked.

  Johnny looked up. “Please, Mom? We’ll be good.”

  “It’s a school night and you know the rule. No sleepovers during the week, but I’ll talk to your uncle and we’ll plan something.”

  Anna was silent while she watched the boys try and change Liza’s mind, to no avail. “Hey, boys, I’ll bet Mimi is waiting for us to get inside.”

  “Come on, Johnny. Mimi will set up the sprinkler out back.”

  As the boys raced away, Liza called after them, “No sprinklers. It’s too cold.”

  Anna looked at Liza. “Really? You sound just like Mom.”

  Liza placed a hand over her heart and chuckled. “Are you forgetting I am their mother?”

  Anna opened the door and they stepped into the whirlwind of brunch where, as happy as she was for Tessa, she longed for someone special in her life.

  The afternoon was the usual fun-filled chaos. Laughter filled the rooms, plates overflowed, and glasses were never empty for long. A party at the Price family home was not to be missed.

  Anna noticed her dad sitting quietly, watching the kids play outside sans the sprinkler. She wandered over.

  “Hey, Dad, whatcha doing out here?” She dropped next to him on the glider.

  He looked up. “Just a little tired. I didn’t sleep well last night—a touch of heartburn.”

  “Can I get you something? Antacid or glass of milk?”

  He patted her hand. “I just needed some air. Nothing to worry about at all.”

  “I don’t mind. How about I get a glass of water?”

  “Stop fussing over me, Anna. I’m okay.”

  His voice wavered, which did nothing to quiet her growing concern. Sam Price was a tower of strength. He rarely took a day off, let alone got sick—with the exception of a mild heart attack a few years ago.

  They watched the grandkids playing.

  “Ben isn’t one to be left behind by the bigger boys.”

  Kate and Don’s three-year-old son was the spitting image of his mother, with striking green eyes and dark hair. He was tall, but his dimples were all Price.

  “They look out for him though.” Anna pointed to George, who was racing with Johnny across the backyard. He turned back and saw Ben, who had stopped to try to tie his shoe. Instead of continuing to chase his brother, George turned to his cousin. He knelt down and tied Ben’s sneaker, then checked the other one. Then they both raced to join Johnny.

  “He’s a good big brother. Do you ever wish you had a couple?”

  “Maybe someday I will, but not yet.” The last thing she wanted her dad to know was that she wished she was in Tessa’s shoes, planning for a real future instead of being stuck—work, home, repeat.

  He shifted in the seat and tapped the middle of his chest.

  “Maybe I should have some milk. Would you mind getting me a glass?” He grasped her hand. “But don’t make this a big deal. I don’t want Tessa and Max to miss their flight out tonight.”

  Leave it to Dad to downpla
y that he didn’t feel good. “I’ll be right back,” she said, jumping up and hurrying into the house. She went straight to the kitchen, smiling at Max’s sister Stella and trying to play it cool. She didn’t want to create a situation as she went to the refrigerator and got the carton of milk. Thankfully, most of the guests had gone and only family remained.

  Her youngest brother Leo strolled over. “What’s going on?”

  He knew of her aversion to milk.

  Softly she said, “Dad’s not feeling well. Complaining of indigestion and asked for a glass.”

  His brow shot up. “Is that all it is?”

  “I’m not sure.” She put the carton away and picked up the glass. “Come with me and see for yourself.”

  He took a cursory look around the room. “Let me get my cell.”

  Mom had a thing when you came into a party at her house. All cell phones were put in a basket on the breakfast bar. Her theory was you came to socialize and you couldn’t if you were always looking at your phone.

  “Meet you out back.”

  “Try not to worry, sis; it’s probably nothing. Too much food, wine, and dancing yesterday.”

  She tried to relax, but she wasn’t so sure. “I’m sure you’re right.”

  Making a smooth exit without Mom asking questions, Anna stepped onto the back deck. Her eyes went directly to her father. He was still massaging his chest and shrugging his shoulder. His face was pale.

  “Dad.” She dropped next to him. “Does your chest hurt?”

  He ignored the question and held out his hand to take the glass of milk. He took a small sip and grimaced.

  “I feel like I’m going to throw up.”

  Leo overheard the statement and pulled out his phone. “I’m calling EMS.”

  “Don’t overreact. It’s just a little stomach upset. Nothing more.” His usual commanding voice was replaced by one laced with apprehension. “Tell your mom before the sirens scare the heck out of her.”

  She turned and waved a hand at George. “Can you come here a minute?”

  He dashed over.

  “Run inside and ask Mimi to come out here.”

  “Sure thing.”

  He zipped around the outdoor dining chairs and through the open door.

  In less than a minute, Mom came rushing out. “Sam,” she cried and grabbed his hands, rubbing them as if to warm them. “What’s wrong?”

  “Maybe I ate something that didn’t agree with me.” Beads of sweat appeared on his upper lip. “I’m sure I’ll be fine.”

  Leo said, “Mom, an ambulance is on the way. Should I call Dad’s cardiologist?”

  “Um, yeah. His number is on the fridge.” She continued to rub his hands between hers.

  Anna looked up. “Go. Tell the others.”

  Leo went inside. The time dragged and when she checked her watch, it had been only a minute which seemed like a lifetime.

  Dad had his eyes closed and Mom held his hand, fighting back tears. Anna took the glass of milk and set it aside. She looked around, anxious to hear sirens. But nothing yet. Don rushed to her side.

  “What’s wrong with Dad?”

  She kept her eyes glued on Dad’s face. “I’m guessing a heart attack.”

  “Should we help him inside?”

  “Will you stop hovering.” Dad gave him a stern look but his voice wavered. They sat in silence, straining to hear the sounds of an ambulance. He rubbed the center of his chest and then massaged his left shoulder and down his arm, and his face grew pinched.

  Time dragged. Finally, a faint wail of sirens could be heard in the distance. They grew closer.

  Jack, her other brother, burst through the door. Two men in dark-blue jackets, white shirts, and matching pants were right behind him. Each one carried two cases and strode across the deck.

  One dropped to kneel beside Sam. He took his wrist in his hand and studied his watch.

  “Mr. Price, can you tell me how you’re feeling?”

  Anna said, “He was complaining his chest ached and he was nauseous. He said it started last night.”

  “Do you have a history of heart problems?” He handed Dad a small tablet of nitroglycerin and directed him to put it under his tongue.

  “Yes.”

  “How long have you been having symptoms?”

  Dad looked at Mom. “I’m not sure. Since yesterday maybe.”

  The EMS man strapped a blood pressure cuff to Dad’s arm and pumped it up. During this time, his partner wheeled out a chair.

  “Mr. Price, we’re going to take you to the hospital. I’ll help you up and you’re going to sit on that chair. Once we get outside, we’ll get you into the ambulance and your family can follow us.”

  Leo piped up. “I’ve called his cardiologist at Crescent Lake Memorial and he’ll meet us at the ER.”

  Dad didn’t argue and allowed himself to be helped into the transport chair. He gave a weak smile to Mom. “I’m sorry, sweetheart. I’m breaking up the party.”

  She smoothed a hand over his cheek and kissed his forehead. “Nothing to be sorry about, and we’ll be right behind you.”

  She looked at Liza and Anna. “I have to put the food away before I go.”

  Anna knew this was her mom’s way to regain her equilibrium. “Mom, I’ll clean up here and follow you in a few minutes. Don and Kate will drive you.”

  Liza stepped forward. “I’ll keep the boys at my house.”

  Mom looked around, dazed. “I need my purse and keys.”

  Don took her elbow. “Come on, Mom.”

  While this was going on, Dad was secured to the chair, which was wheeled into the house. They followed the EMS and Dad out the front door.

  Stuffing the worry down, Anna rushed down the front steps to drop a kiss on Dad’s cheek.

  “I’ll see you in a bit. I love you, Daddy.” She blinked back the tears that threatened to spill down her cheeks.

  “Love you.” He was eased into the waiting ambulance. One man climbed in back with him and the other closed the doors, immediately striding toward the driver’s door.

  Don pulled the car up and Anna rushed over to open the passenger door for Mom. Kate was sitting in the back.

  “I’ll see you at the hospital.” She leaned down. “Call if anything happens.”

  Don said, “Will do.”

  Anna slammed the door. She watched, feeling helpless as both the ambulance with lights flashing and Don’s car raced down the driveway. Jack, Liza, and Leo were watching the ambulance, their faces blank.

  She looked around the group. “Where’s Tessa and Max?”

  Tessa ran down the steps. “Here. We’re headed to the hospital.”

  Anna threw a frantic look at the kitchen.

  Stella ushered the three young boys into the family room. She tilted her head to the door and said, “Go. I’ll watch the kids, clean up the kitchen, and take care of the house. We’re family now.”

  “Thanks, Stella.” Anna looked at her siblings. “Let’s go.”

  2

  Anna paced the long, overly bright hallway; the polished linoleum floor and dull-colored walls were so sterile, along with the antiseptic smell that filled her sensitive nose. It was like this the last time he was in the hospital; that smell made her pulse race, and not in a good way. Her sneakers squeaked as she turned to pace the length again. She couldn’t spend another minute sitting and waiting for news about Dad.

  Just yesterday, he had been smiling and dancing at Tessa’s wedding. Now he was in the cardiac unit, lying in a bed, hooked up to machines monitoring his every vital function. Mom was by his side, waiting for the doctor to tell them the results. The rest of the family was sitting in the waiting room just outside the ICU. How they could just sit there and wait was beyond her. Instead, she walked the halls.

  A handsome man who looked very familiar approached her. He had been Dad’s nurse after his heart attack a few years ago. He was dressed in green scrubs, was tall, and walked with quiet confidence. She couldn’t
help but notice his sculpted biceps under his shirtsleeves. A stethoscope was around his neck and a pen and pad poked from the pocket of his shirt.

  “Anna?”

  “Yes.” His voice put her at ease instantly. It was like a good pinot noir, smooth.

  “I’m Colin Grant, your father’s nurse practitioner.”

  She stuck out her hand. “I remember you were his nurse when Dad was in the hospital a few years ago.” As they connected, a spark gave her heart a jolt.

  A smile of recognition flashed over his face. “I remember you too.”

  She could feel her face flush, as she had definitely remembered how he had made her feel the first time they met. “How’s my dad?”

  “He’s a lucky guy. But he will need a coronary bypass and vein graft. Which means we’ll take a healthy vein and bypass the blocked artery.”

  “Do my parents know?” She glanced down the hall toward the elevator.

  “Yes. Dr. Thomas is with them now, and the rest of the family has been updated too. One of your brothers said you were walking the halls and they’d fill you in when you returned but I’m glad I bumped into you.” He gave her an understanding smile.

  Her eyes slipped to the floor as she exhaled. “I’m not good at just hanging around.” She met his kind eyes. “NP? I thought it was RN?”