Though the gossips had them pegged as an item, teacher Rachel Woodward was merely helping Sean Bates, the new guidance counselor, learn small-town ways. But his looks and charm were almost irresistible. And it was a good thing Rachel no longer fell prey to romantic insanity.

Yet she couldn't ignore Sean, or how wonderfully he cared for the sweet, rambunctious five-year-old who'd landed in their school -- and both their hearts. Little Samantha needed a father, and Sean would be the perfect man for the job. But she needed a mother, too. . . and suddenly Rachel wondered if God had a family in store for her after all.