Page 50 of Rhett

As we head down to meet our families for brunch, I feel a sense of contentment wash over me. This may not be how I imagined my life going, but I wouldn't change a thing. With Rhett by my side and our daughter on the way, I know we can face whatever the future holds.

My kiddos hustle and bustle around me as we get ready for the holiday concert their doing for their parents and families. Our room is decorated with a Christmas tree, paper stars hanging from the ceiling, and twinkle lights.

The kids are all dressed up in Christmas gear. I’m wearing black maternity leggings, a red cardigan, with a green T-shirt under it. I’m also wearing a Santa hat. Even Jodi and Daniel got into the spirit.

Jodi had been invited to our wedding, but she declined because she needed to stay back to take care of our kiddos. She bought us beautiful towels that were so fluffy soft I wanted to lie on them. Daniel got us some gift cards to Target, which I appreciated greatly.

As I help the kids line up for their performance, I can't help but smile thinking about how much has changed in the past few months. I'm married now, with a baby girl on the way. It still feels surreal sometimes.

“Miss Sofia, I'm nervous,” little Mia shares, tugging on my cardigan.

I kneel down as best I can with my growing belly. “You're going to do great, sweetheart. Just remember to smile and have fun.”

Mia nods, looking a bit more confident. I give her a quick hug before standing back up.

“All right kiddos, it's showtime!” I announce cheerfully. “Let's go show your families how amazing you all are.”

As we file into the main room where the parents are waiting, I scan the crowd for Rhett. My heart swells when I spot him sitting next to my mom. Things have been better between us lately, and I'm so grateful she's here today.

The kids begin their performance, singing holiday songs and doing adorable little dance moves. I beam with pride watching them, my hand resting on my belly. In a few years, our daughter will be up there singing and dancing too.

After the show, parents mingle and chat as they collect their children. Rhett makes his way over to me, pulling me into a hug.

“That was great, baby,” he says, kissing my cheek. “The kids were so cute.”

I lean into him, savoring his warmth. “Thanks for coming. I know you had to switch shifts to be here.”

“I wouldn't have missed it,” Rhett assures me.

My mom joins us, smiling warmly. “Sofia, the children were wonderful. You've done such a great job with them.”

“Thanks, Mom,” I say, feeling a rush of emotion at her praise.

As we chat, I notice Rhett watching me with a soft expression. When Mom excuses herself to use the restroom, he pulls me close again.

“What?” I ask, noticing his intense gaze.

Rhett shakes his head slightly. “Nothing. I just love seeing you like this—in your element with the kids. You're going to be an amazing mom to our little girl.”

I feel tears prick my eyes at his words. Damn pregnancy hormones. “And you're going to be the best dad,” I tell him, leaning up for a kiss.

As the room slowly empties, Rhett helps me clean up a bit before we head home. I'm exhausted but happy. While I gather my things, he chats with Daniel and Jodi. Yawning widely, I head toward them and then we head out.

He drove me today in my car, so he helps me inside. “Why don’t we order out and you can lie down when we get home?”

I smile and nod. “That sounds good. This whole week has worn me out, but it went so well. They were all so great.”

Grabbing my hand, he kisses the back of it. “It won’t be long until our little girl is singing with her class.”

“I know, right?”

We’re in a comfortable silence the rest of the way home, and then I get to take my nap.

27

Rhett

We pull up to an accident on the 440 Parkway. I jump out of the ambulance and grab my bag as we start assessing the situation. Atta and Ghost Pepper are up ahead while I check the woman who is sitting on the side of the road. Blood runs down her temple.

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