Page 103 of Fourteen of a Kind

“We’ve been here three days and only talked to your dad twice.” I smirked.

“You should know by now that he doesn’t have boundaries.” She laughed. “Can we go swimming with the sharks?”

I looked at her and arched my brow. “Uh, no. After seeing that shark attack victim, I’m good.”

“Oh, come on. We’ll be safe.”

“No can do, babe. I’ll do anything else you want but that.”

Besides making love like we would never see each other again, we jet-skied, took a beautiful sunset cruise, went snorkeling, had a private lunch on one of the islands, went on a private helicopter tour, and did some shopping. Our honeymoon was perfect, but it was time to return to our lives, family, and work. The day after we returned, the family welcomed us home by having what they did best: a party.

I was standing and holding a beer, talking to Jackson, Simon, and Sam, when Barb walked over.

“My, you are sure a handsome group of boys.” She smiled. “I’m Barbara.”

“Mom, we know who you are,” Simon said, and Jackson smacked the back of his head.

“I mean. It’s nice to meet you, Barbara.”

“You two look a lot like my boys,” she told Simon and Sam. “I have four little ones at home—quadruplets. They’re with their father this weekend.”

“Barb, sweetheart.” Curtis walked over and clasped her shoulders. “Let’s go get something to eat.”

“We have to hurry. The boys are coming home today, and I want to be there.”

“We’ll be home in plenty of time,” he told her. “Come on. The chef grilled your favorite shrimp.”

“So, son.” Nathan walked over and hooked his arm around me. “Any news on the baby front yet?”

“We’re not ready for kids yet.”

“Why not?” he asked, cocking his head.

“Were you when you found out about her and she came to live with you?”

“Oh snap.” Simon chuckled. “I love this guy.”

“That was different, Graham. I wasn’t married or in love.”

“All in due time, Nathan.” I patted his chest.

“There’s always Willow, bro.” Jackson grinned.

“You shut your mouth.” He pointed at his brother.

“Or better yet. That boy of yours could knock up some girl with the way he dates.” Simon chuckled.

“This is why I can’t have a serious conversation around these douchebags,” Nathan said.

One Month Later

Ella

I woke up and didn’t feel well. I felt exhausted even though I got a good night’s sleep. Rolling over, I placed my arm around Graham and snuggled into him. He stirred, rolling over and kissing my lips.

“Good morning, beautiful.”

“Good morning.”

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