Page 139 of The Way We Win

“I’m not sure.” My hand is clasped in Jack’s.

“It’s going to be okay.” His calm voice goes a long way toward soothing my nerves.

“He’s here!” Liv walks into the room, smiling brightly. “The doctor couldn’t believe how fast he came for a first-timer. Dylan was a pro. She pushed him out so fast, and they’re both smiling and well!”

Garrett stands, putting his arm around his wife. “Will they let us back there?”

“She’s already asking for her family.”

We all start to move, and I catch Clint’s arm. “Two days.”

34

Jack

Two days later

The bay is shrouded in a smooth, gray mist, and I sit on my swing alone, sipping coffee and watching the pelicans glide low over the water.

Kimmie spent the night at Allie’s last night, and Austin is here with me.

My arms ache to hold my bride, but my stomach is tight with anticipation. Pulling out my phone, I send her a quick text.

I’m glad we planned a morning wedding. How long do we have to stay at the reception?

Wife

A few hours at least.

A few?

Wife

We should at least stay for two. Clint worked so hard, and everyone will be there.

I’ll be counting the seconds til I have you alone in Miss Gina’s cottage.

Wife

I’ll be counting the seconds til I say I do.

I’ve already said it one hundred times in my heart.

Wife

Now I’m crying.

Dry your eyes, beautiful. I’ll be the one down front waiting to kiss you.

Smiling at my phone, I tuck the device into my pocket and lean back to sip my coffee.

We decided to postpone our honeymoon trip until Austin leaves for college. My wife doesn’t want to miss any time with her son, and I don’t mind taking the pressure off.

Everyone has offered to help us with Kimmie, but I don’t want my little peanut to feel like her life is changing or I’ve forgotten her—not that it seems possible.

Kimmie has never had a problem inserting herself into situations, especially when it concerns her family.

The door opens, and I hear shuffling in the kitchen. Austin digs in the refrigerator, taking out a neon-green Mountain Dew before walking out to the back porch.

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