Page 109 of Ryder

I kiss her on the nose. “Let’s go.”

“Already? But we just got here.” She looks around the deserted beach. “We didn’t even walk anywhere.”

I thumb behind me. “See that big black cloud rollin’ in?”

She darts her eyes. “Oh.”

“Yeah, oh. Storms brewin’, Sugar. Which is a good excuse to stay in bed for the rest of the day.”

“Fine, but you owe me fish and chips. A girl’s gotta eat.” She pouts.

“Anything for my beautiful wife.” I plant a kiss on her perfect lips. Not for the first time, I thank my lucky stars for my wife and all that I have. “But after I feed you, you’re mine.”

A slow smile creeps on her face. “I like how your mind works.”

We leave the cabin early the next morning, happy to be heading out. Last night got the better of us. We ended up falling asleep in front of the fire, exhausted, but in our own bubble. It’s been an emotional few days, yet I’ve enjoyed the time away with Crystal. I’m also ready to be back in New Orleans, and back to Aidan and our life. Maybe a family vacation is in order because it just isn’t the same without the little guy. He might drive us both a little nuts, but he’s ours. And I wouldn’t trade being a dad for anything in the world.

When we roll up at the bakery, we surprise Aidan when we walk in the back door. He’s at the bench with Manny, who helps out sometimes, shaking a ridiculous amount of sprinkles onto some cookies. Trust Manny to rope in a little helper. He’s so good with kids, and they adore him.

“Mommy! Daddy!” He jumps off the stool and runs toward us, his apron, which is a little too big, almost trips him up.

I scoop him up into my arms, squeezing him into a big hug as Crystal dusts his face with kisses. “How’s our big boy? Have you been good for everyone?”

“Yes!” he declares proudly. “I was helping Manny with the cookies.”

Manny watches us, taking in the spectacle with a big grin. “He’s my new sous chef, right, Ade?”

“Right!” Ade punches the air with one fist. I set him down while his momma crouches to hug him before he runs back to the cookie station. “Mommy, try a cookie!”

“They smell amazing,” she says. “What kind did you make?”

“Chocolate, and vanilla sprinkles,” he says, climbing back up on the stool.

“I think you have a budding baker on your hands,” Manny says. “In fact, I’m sure of it.”

Aidan beams proudly and my heart skips a beat. That’s all you want in life; your kid to be happy. We’re lucky we have such amazing friends and support from the club. Manny is just one shining example, but there are many more.

“How was the trip?” Manny looks up at us.

I shrug.

He frowns. “That good?”

“About as good as any funeral can go,” I say.

“Let’s just say we’re glad to be home,” Crystal adds.

“Closure can be bittersweet,” Manny says. “I get it.”

“Uncle Manny?” Ade says, pulling at Manny’s arm.

“Yeah, bud?”

“Pay attention,” my little guy scolds.

I roll my lips as Manny puts on a serious face. “Sorry,” Manny does at least sound apologetic.

“Mommy’s hungry,” Ade goes on. “Give her this one.”

---