Chapter22
“What did I miss?” Maddie asked when the babies ended her nap with hungry cries.
Mac had helped her change them and was watching over her as she fed them. Breastfeeding twins was a feat, and Maddie excelled at the balancing act. “Well, Jeff Lawry asked me for a job because he wants to stay on the island this year.”
“Is that right? Any particular reason?”
“As you well know, it’s because of Kelsey.”
“That’s so sweet. I hope you hired him.”
“I did, but I worry that he’s giving up a much better job in Tampa to work with me.”
“Some things are more important than money, and besides, he’s got plenty of time to make money. They’re so cute together. I hope they can make it work.”
“I guess we’ll see.”
“How are you feeling?” she asked.
“Like I’m going to survive this nightmare, but just barely.”
Maddie snorted out a laugh. “Oh, the drama.”
“I’m glad I can only have one vasectomy in a lifetime. One was more than enough.”
“And yet, I had six children. Hmmm…”
“You win. Hands down, no contest.”
“I’m glad you realize that. Where are my other children?”
“Watching a movie while having ice cream for dessert. Thomas is in charge of making sure Mac doesn’t get it all over the sofa.”
“Let me know how that goes.”
“Are you hungry?”
“Starving.”
“I’ll bring you dinner in bed.”
“That’s okay. These girls are done. We can come downstairs.”
Mac took Emma from her and gave her a hand up as she balanced Evie. “How’s your soreness?”
“A little better than it was, but still got a way to go.”
He put an arm around her and, mindful of the babies, leaned in to kiss her. “In case I forget to tell you, you’re the undisputed hero of this story.”
“Oh, I already knew that, but thank you for confirming it.”
Mac laughed as he escorted her downstairs, hoping his young friend Jeff might one day have what he did with Maddie.
Jace methis son’s earnest gaze and tried to find the words he needed to explain himself to the child. “Before I tell you how I knew your mom, I want you both to know that I love you so much and want nothing but the best for you.”
The boys looked at each other and then at him, their gazes expectant, so he took a deep breath and forced himself to say the words. “I knew your mother because I was married to her. I’m your father.”
Kyle let out a sound that defied description before he jumped up and ran out the front door.