Epilogue
Storm
3 months later
The kids were delighted to have me living in the casita and we spent as much time together as possible. After Helene returned home to Florida, the four of us did all the family things together. School programs, Isaac’s first soccer games, exploring Vegas and the desert and mountains surrounding us. Even as I learned more about Quinn and each of his kids, I discovered more about myself as well.
I happily stepped into what I consider a mom role and even cut my hours at the shop to be home when Emm gets dropped off after school and to pick up Isaac from his preschool. My cooking skills might be improving. At least there aren’t too many complaints as long as I stick to the simple recipes I’ve come close to perfecting.
I make sure to spend time every day just with Emmerii. She seems to be thriving with me around. Her teacher has commented on how she seems happier and more open with the other students.
Once a week I take truck lover Isaac to the shop for a couple hours. He’s attached himself to Dad who is teaching him about cars and motors the same way he taught me, with lots of practice and greasy hands. One day Isaac called him Grampa. I’ve never seen Dad’s eyes fill with tears and his wavering grin when Isaac hugged him filled my heart.
I refused to move into the house without being married. Mostly just because of the kids. I didn’t want anyone teasing them or making disparaging comments about our family. Like Quinn, I protect what’s mine.
So Helene flew back and joined us and Dad at one of the wedding chapels for a quick ceremony. I didn’t need any fancy event with seats filled with curious onlookers, although Helene did insist on buying both Emm and I flowy dresses. Dad bought the flowers for a bouquet and a small floral decorated basket for Emm to carry. I have the sneaking suspicion Helene may have influenced his purchase.
Quinn and I took a one night honeymoon in the same room we’d shared when we met. We enjoy experimenting with positions and toys, and honestly it was fun to get a little wild and not have to worry about disturbing sleeping children. Although the people in the next room did pound on the wall once. We left early in the morning and Quinn paid for their room as an apology.
He is such a kind and thoughtful man. Every day I discover something about him that makes me love him even more.
We brought the kids, and my dad to Florida to visit Helene and the theme parks. I think there might be something going on between Dad and Helene. I hope so. They both deserve happiness. Hell, I’m so happy, I just want everyone to feel the same way.
I’ve saved a surprise for everyone I can’t wait to share. After I tell Quinn.
“Before we have dinner, I need to talk to you.”
“What’s up, baby?” He leans close to peer into my eyes. “Anything wrong?”
“Wrong. No, I don’t think so. Just something I forgot.”
He shrugs one shoulder. “I’m sure we can get whatever you forgot here in Florida.”
I bite back a laugh. “I don’t think that’s necessary. What I forgot was… well, with the situation with your ex, having to move, then getting married, I guess I just didn’t think about updating my shot.”
He’s turned to the mirror to comb his damp hair from the shower we shared while everyone else was playing on the beach. I hold his gaze in the mirror and watch him frown. “What shot?”
“Birth control.”
“Birth… oh? Is everything okay?”
He’s being particularly dense today. “Yes, everything is wonderful as far as I’m concerned. But you know, when you spend as much time as we do…” I wave toward the bed. “…and there’s no birth control, things can happen.”
“Baby? What are you saying?”
Chuckling, I move to his side and pick up a lipstick. I draw a heart on the mirror then add his initials, mine, the kids’, along with a large question mark.
“You’re pregnant?”
I nod.
He shouts and crushes me against his body. “Storm, I love you.” He slips one hand between us to stroke my lower belly. “Both of you. Can we tell everyone? Tonight?”
“That was my plan. I waited to tell you here in Florida so when we tell the rest of the family Helene will be one of the first to hear the news. I want to make sure she knows that she’s this baby’s grammy, too. I won’t have it any other way. She treats me like a daughter, so of course my children?—”
Quinn stops my ramble with a firm kiss. Then he touches a finger to my nose. “I wouldn’t have it any other way either.” After another long kiss he takes my hand and pulls me toward the French doors leading to the huge deck and the beach.
“I don’t want to wait until dinner. Let’s go tell everyone now.”