Chapter 40
Miles
I loved my life. My company was stronger than ever. Stella had finally graduated with her doctorate, and our children were growing way too fast. Ben showed an interest in soccer, and for being six years old, he was a natural at it. I attended every practice and game. When I’d come home from work, I would sit down at the piano, both boys on each side, and play a song for them. My wife grew more beautiful each year, and I loved her even more, which I didn’t think was possible.
“What do you think, Miles?” Grant asked as we walked around the space.
“I think it’s perfect.” I glanced at my watch. “Stella should be here any minute.”
I stepped outside the building and waited for Sean to pull up. When he did, I opened the door and helped Stella and the kids out of the car.
“Daddy!” Brayden held up his arm, and I picked him up.
“What are we doing here?” Stella asked, looking at the building.
“Come inside, and I’ll tell you.” I smiled, taking hold of Ben’s hand.
She said hello to Grant and looked around. “This is great, but I still don’t understand why you brought me here.”
“Come on, Brayden,” Ben said as they both ran around, chasing each other.
“Say hello to your own practice, sweetheart.” I grinned.
“What?” Her eyes widened. “Are you serious?”
“You’re a Bradshaw, Stella. We don’t work for anyone. People work for us.” I smiled.
“Oh my God.” She threw her arms around me. “I can’t believe this. Thank you. Thank you.” She planted tiny kisses all over my face.
The boys were wrestling on the ground, and Brayden was screaming.
“Boys, that’s enough. Do you love this space, sweetheart?”
“I do.” A beautiful grin crossed her lips.
“Then it’s settled. “Grant, you just sold a building.”
“Excellent. I’ll call you as soon as the paperwork is ready.” He shook my hand.
“I can’t believe you did this for me?” Her arms wrapped around my neck.
“You know I’d do anything for you.” I smiled as the kids ran around us, screaming. “Why don’t you give Adalyn a call, tell her the good news, and talk design with her? Do anything you want to this place. I’ll take the boys back to the office with me so you can have the rest of the day to yourself.”
Sean drove us to my office.
“You boys be good for Daddy.” Stella kissed them goodbye. “I love you.” She smiled.
“I love you too. Enjoy the rest of your day.” I kissed her.
I took the boys up to my office. They immediately ran to Isla, who was like an aunt to them.
“How did Stella like the building? she asked.
“She loved it.” I grinned.
“Daddy?” Ben said. “Can I sit in your chair?”
“You sure can, buddy.”
He ran over and sat in my chair, placing his hands on my desk.
“That right there is the future of Bradshaw Capital.” I glanced at Isla.
“And what about that one?” she pointed to Brayden as he wildly jumped on the couch.
“I’m not sure about him yet. Brayden, we don’t jump on the furniture.” I sighed.
* * *
Stella
I had a space—not my office space, but a space in my home where I go when I need to destress. It was a quaint little corner with a comfy chair, a salt lamp, and an essential oil diffuser. It was a space where I studied and where I would go when the kids were out of control. When I would tell them Mommy needs five, they knew to leave me alone for a few moments. It was my sanctuary.
I had the perfect life: a loving husband, two beautiful sons, and I’d finally become Dr. Stella Bradshaw. The journey wasn’t easy, but with the support of Miles and my friends, I’d made it. And now, I’d start my own practice and help families and their children in need.
* * *
Two Years Later
Miles
When I opened the front door, the boys were running around the house, chasing each other with their play swords.
“Hi, Dad.” Ben smiled, running past me.
“Where’s your Mom?” I asked.
“She said she needs five.”
I smiled as I walked up the stairs and to her sanctuary. I stood in the doorway and stared at her as she sat there with her eyes closed.
“The boys said you needed five.” I smirked.
Her eyes opened, and a smile graced her beautiful face.
“I actually need thirty.”
I chuckled as I walked over and sat on the floor next to her.
“Tough day, sweetheart.” I took hold of her hand.
“A little bit, but nothing I can’t handle.”
I leaned over and kissed her lips. “Take all the time you need. I’ll take the boys to the park and let them get out all their energy.”
“You’re the best. I have patient notes to catch up on.”
“You do that.” I stood up. “I’ll bring dinner home for us, and once the kids are in bed, we’ll take a hot bubble bath, drink some alcohol, and then I’ll have my way with you in bed.”
“Sounds like a dream.” She smiled.
I sighed when I heard Brayden crying.
“Dad, Brayden fell and hurt himself,” Ben yelled.
“He pushed me!” I heard Brayden shout.
I looked at Stella and sighed. “When does our new nanny start?”
“Next week.” She smiled.