He turned back to his computer. "Thanks, but there's nothing you can do. I've got to finish this. I'll be down in a little while."
Carmen stood and walked to the door. She glanced back to find him watching her. She smiled.
"I'm sorry I interrupted you. You're right. I can do this on my own."
When she closed the door, he was still watching her. He was probably wondering what she was up to. Whatever was bothering him, it was clear that he didn't want to continue his role as protector and director. She could probably help him best by conducting business without consulting him for every detail. Hiring help so that he was relived of that worry was a good start. It couldn't be much different than hiring a sitter. She descended the stairs with a new sense of purpose. Alex needed her help and she wasn't going to let him down. He would tell her about his problem in his own timeframe - and maybe that would be when he felt she was less of a burden.
In the kitchen she paused, remembering a previous conversation with Alex. Why would he want to adopt a child if he was feeling overwhelmed?
"Did you forget something?"
Felipa was standing at the sink, watching her.
Carmen sighed. "No, I was just wondering."
Felipa raised her brows. "What?"
Carmen shook her had. "It doesn't matter. Has the caterer arrived yet?"
Felipa nodded and smiled. "They are setting it up as we speak. Shall I call Alex?"
"No, he's working on something and doesn't want to be interrupted. Is Katie here yet?"
"I do not think so. Shall I check?"
Carmen smiled. "I think I can handle that." She turned toward the door and then stopped. "Did you get the ice cream?"
Felipa laughed. "We were gone so long, yes? We brought the ice cream. I put it in the freezer. We also bought some disposable bowls. This is good, yes?"
Carmen formed the OK sign with her fingers and winked.
"This is good."
It was good. The barbeque couldn't have been better. Alex joined them as they started serving and later drove his truck down and brought the team and wagon up to the footbridge. Jonathan's band played a few country and western songs. They were surprisingly good. The sun was casting its last orange rays into the sky when they all loaded onto the wagon and headed into the field. Alex drove the team and Carmen sat on the seat with him, the twins between them. Destiny stood behind them, leaning on the back of the seat.