Page 52 of Fourteen of a Kind

“Of course.”

“What is this scar from?” She softly ran her finger along it.

“A car accident. The accident that killed my mother.”

“I’m sorry, Graham,” she said.

“Let’s get some sleep so we can get up for that run in the morning.” I smiled, leaning in and kissing her lips.

“Good idea.”

My arm wrapped securely around her as her head lay on my chest. Staring up at the ceiling, I thought about how this day and night felt right. Closing my eyes, I was startled by the nightmare I’d had.

“Graham, wake up.” I felt my shoulders shake. “Graham!”

My eyes flew open. I could see Ella staring at me as the light of the moon filtered through the sheer curtains.

“I’m fine,” I said, breathing rapidly. “Go back to sleep.”

The following morning, Ella stirred in my arms. Opening my eyes, a smile crossed my lips.

“Good morning,” I said.

“Good morning.” A bright smile crossed her face.

“You ready for that run?” I asked.

“I am if you are. I’ll make us a cup of coffee while you get your bag from the car.” She softly kissed my lips.

I let out a long stretch before climbing out of bed. Pulling on my shorts, I went out to my car. I heard a voice as I grabbed my bag from the back seat.

“Morning, Dr. Malone.”

Turning around, I saw Nathan heading toward me.

Shit.

“Nathan, good morning.” I nervously smiled.

“I assume it was too late for you to drive home last night?”

“Uh—”

“Don’t sweat it.” He patted my shoulder. “I know my little girl isn’t so little anymore.”

This was too awkward.

“Dad, what are you doing?!” I heard Ella yell from the porch.

“Morning, sweetheart. I just got back from dropping your mom and Willow off at Shaun’s plane. I saw Dr. Malone out here and thought I’d say hi.”

“Okay. Hi and bye. Come on, Graham. Get changed so we can go for that run.”

“Have a good day, Nathan,” I glanced at him.

“You too, Dr. Malone.”

CHAPTER 16

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