Page 112 of My Greatest Joy

Finn shakes his head. “Betrayal.”

“If it makes you feel better, once I master it, I’ll make them for you whenever you want.” Fallon grins.

“Fine, deal.”

Oakley giggles, bringing her puppy up to her face. “Text me the time and we’ll be there.”

“You got it.” Fallon smiles. “See ya soon.”

Once we get to the truck, I grab the dog with one hand and help Fallon into the passenger seat with the other.

“You good?” I ask once she’s buckled in, then place the puppy in her lap.

“What should we name her?” she asks once I pull onto the main road.

“Whatever you want.”

“It should be Christmas-y to match Dasher’s name.”

“Yeah?” I arch a brow. “Okay, well, that should be easy enough.”

Before we head to the cabin, I stop at the pet store for puppy food, some new toys, a crate, and a collar.

“You ready to meet your brother, sweet girl?” Fallon walks up the porch stairs, holding on to her tightly while I carry everything else.

The moment we walk in, Dasher is on us like glue.

“It’s okay, buddy. Be gentle.”

Fallon kneels so they can sniff each other. After a few minutes, she sets her down and we watch them carefully.

“Good boy, Dasher.” I praise and pet him so he doesn’t feel left out or that we’re replacing him.

The next several hours are getting them acquainted, setting up her crate and food station, and letting them play together outside.

“I hope she doesn’t run off,” Fallon says, watching as they chase each other.

“I think she’ll follow Dasher and will eventually learn the boundaries.”

“What do you think about Noelle?” Fallon asks, facing me.

My lips split into a wide grin. “I love it.”

I wrap my arm around her shoulders when she curls into my side. “Thank you for her.”

“You don’t have to thank me, love. I’ll do anything that makes you happy.”

She tilts up her head until our gazes meet. “I know, and that’s why I love you so much.”

I kiss the tip of her nose. “I love you, too. So much.”

She burrows herself in more. “Our son is so lucky to grow up like this—lots of land, two dogs, a tight-knit community. I couldn’t think of a better way to raise him.”

“Couldn’t agree more.” I tighten my hold on her. “Maplewood Falls is a special place.”

EPILOGUE

LEVI

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