My Steps Are Ordered by Michelle Lindo-Rice Read Free Book Online Page A

What if he found her dad? Gina had mentioned him the other day. He knew there was a huge gap in her heart for the man who had contributed to her existence. She had never expressed an interest in locating him, but he figured this constituted as good a time as any.
    He snapped his fingers. This would be the ultimate way to kill two birds with one stone. Reunite Gina with her long-lost father and find a prospective donor. He figured Gina’s father owed her that much. He had not been a help to her thus far, so this would be one way he could make it up to her.
    Michael paced as he pictured Gina’s reaction, and smiled. It was a win-win situation. He would do it. Why hadn’t he thought of this much sooner? Better late than never, he told himself. Gina would meet her father, and he would be the one to do that for her.
    He keyed in a speed-dial number on his cell phone. His lawyer knew the right people to handle this delicate matter. Frank Armadillo answered on the second ring.
    Michael sketched out what he needed done. Frank promised he would find Gina’s father and stated that he had the right individual in mind for the job. This person could find anybody, with professionalism and discretion.
    Michael made another call. Within minutes, he’d lined up Keith to babysit Trey that night. He needed some alone time with Gina to talk her into getting pregnant. He then called Althea and gave her Keith’s address so she’d be there in case any emergency arose. He did a quick mental check in his head. “That’s right. I almost forgot.” He placed a call to his personal doctor. He needed to have a physical to make sure all his “swimmers” were ready and raring to go.
    The last call he made was the one he dreaded the most. Michael felt like he had a mouth full of sand. He had to lay on the charm to persuade Gina to let Trey out of her sight and stay with Keith. She argued, but after much debate, Michael won. Gina caved once he told her a private nurse would be on duty at Keith’s to look after Trey.
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    As soon as he entered the house, Michael noticed that Gina had dressed with care. She wore flats and a formfitting navy blue sheath dress. There had been tension between them at home, and he knew it was not good for them or for Trey. The little boy did not need his parents in conflict right now. Children could pick up on when their parents were at odds. Trey was fighting for his life. He needed to know his parents were united and were fighting with him, not because of him.
    Michael walked over to the dining-room table, where Gina was lighting the last candle, and saw that she had prepared grilled chicken breast with Alfredo noodles for dinner. The lit candles sparkled, and the chandelier tinkled from the light breeze the open window provided. His mouth watered.
    â€œThis looks delicious.” He almost forgot the flowers he held. With a wide smile, he said with a husky voice, “These are for you.” He handed her the two dozen white roses he’d ordered.
    Gina put her hair behind her ear—a sure sign she was moved. “Thanks,” she said under fluttering lashes. Then she arranged the huge bouquet in a vase on the sideboard before placing the arrangement on the table as a centerpiece.
    They sat and ate in silence. As they were finishing their meal, Gina began to speak. She splayed her hand across the table before moving it between them. “Michael, I know what this is all about, and I want to say that my answer is yes.”
    â€œYes!” Michael clapped his hands and gave a whoop. “Gina, I love you.” He stood and reached for her. Gina placed her smaller hand in his. With a slight tug, Michael led her into their bedroom and undressed her with care.
    â€œI’m so relieved, Gina. You’ve no idea,” Michael murmured in her ear.
    Their union was beautiful and bittersweet. He treasured their lovemaking and spooned her body next to his,