“Good,” I replied without regret.
He looked out at the skyline, looking lost in thought.
“You know, when Riley was left with me, I honestly wasn’t sure what the future held. I knew I would take care of her. That I loved her and I’d do the best I could. But I honestly wasn’t sure what happiness beyond her would ever look like. Then came you.”
He looked over at me, his eyes shining with the love I’d never tire of having envelop me. Any distraction over my brother was gone in that moment, and it was again as it should be, only us.
“You’ve given us more than I could have ever imagined. Having someone to share the beauty that is Riley, of growing our family with Margo. I could have never imagined I’d be so lucky,” I rasped. “When my nan left me the house, I can only think she’d hoped as much. Hell, maybe she planned it.” I laughed. I wouldn’t put it past her to matchmake beyond the grave. “But I figured I’d give you something more.” I smiled.
He nuzzled my ear. “Baby, there’s nothing you could give me that would make me any happier, except….” He pulled back as realization sunk in. “Wait.”
I laughed, nodding at his unspoken question.
“Holy shit, you’re pregnant?” he demanded, cupping my face in his hands.
“Just found out this morning,” I confirmed.
He took my mouth in a passionate kiss, only pausing to demand, “Do you feel okay? When is the first appointment?”
I placed my hands on his wrists, squeezing gently. “I just found out, honey. But I feel fine.”
He pressed his forehead to mine. “Another baby,” he breathed. “I need to get to work on that guest room.”
“Good thing we have room.” I grinned.
“Good thing,” he agreed, his hand moving to my flat belly. “Christ, you’ve given me a life I didn’t even know I’d dreamed about. I love you, baby.”
“I love you too.”
“Was gonna try to convince you tonight to let me knock you up again.” He grinned.
“Guess I’m a bit ahead of schedule,” I teased.
“No, chief. As always, you’re exactly on time,” he replied seriously. “Let’s go home.”
I nodded, eager to celebrate our growing family under a roof where my nan had raised her family and I was expanding mine. A home full of laughter and stories and families grown from blood and friendship.
A home where I’d learned the power of the love of a good man.
My man.
~The End~