And as far as I know, my mom still lives in her ramshackle little house on the outskirts of Sheridan, although I can’t be sure, since I haven’t spoken to her since our confrontation. No, I think ruefully. My life is far too wonderful for that woman.
I reach for Ryder’s hand and give his large palm a squeeze. “She’s not a part of our lives anymore,” I remind him without an ounce of regret. “Let’s just let sleeping dogs lie, shall we? It’s better this way because all Angela wants is money. My mother wouldn’t be interested in her granddaughters, as sad as that is.”
My boyfriends nod with understanding, accepting my decision.
“You okay?” Rick asks, his voice tender. “You can always change your mind if you want. The door is never entirely shut to family.”
I nod, taking a deep breath.
“Yes, absolutely. But let’s talk about happier things, shall we? I was just thinking how I’m so lucky to have it all.”
“Have it all?” The twins tilt their heads, smiles lurking on their lips.
“I have two wonderful little daughters, I have a kickass career, and I’ve found the loves of my life.” I look from one pair of luminous blue eyes to the other. “Yes, I’d say I have it all. Don’t you think?”
The brothers exchange a quick look but I can’t make out its meaning.
“What? What is it?” I ask.
“You don’t exactly have it all,” Rick counters mysteriously.
“Come on guys, my life is incredible,” I laugh. “What could be better?”
But instead of answering, Rick and Ryder both take a knee next to my hospital bed, still holding their tiny daughters. My heart starts beating rapidly as my eyes go wide.
Then, Ryder pulls a blue velvet box from his pocket, and inside is the most stunning ring I have ever seen – a delicate platinum band with a large, perfectly round diamond nestled in the center prongs. I gasp aloud.
“Marry us?” the brothers ask in unison. “You make us so happy, Chrissy.”
With tears in my eyes, I nod.
“Yes, absolutely,” I whisper. Then I lean forward and kiss each of them in turn, savoring their individual tastes in my mouth. After all, I was never supposed to fall in love with twins, much less twins who are also my former stepbrothers. But Rick and Ryder have me under their spell, and with our daughters, we’re the perfect family of five. Pure joy washes over me, and I smile again, this time through tears at my two men and two children. Yes, I definitely have it all.
THE END