Page 259 of Ignite

I sigh.

“My dad would have too. But I bet they’re both looking down on us with a smile. Hey, our dads are probably best of friends up there, drinking whiskey.”

He laughs and pulls me in for a kiss.

“I will never, ever, let you down again, Hallie.”

“I know,” I whisper.

“You need to get some rest, beastie.”

He presses his lips against my temple and rests his hand on my belly.

“How am I supposed to sleep when I’m so fucking happy? I’m going to be a dad. We’re having a baby. And I’ve got you back.”

I don’t think I’ve ever been more at peace than I am right now.

“You never lost me. Not in my heart. I think I was always going to find my way back to you.”

“Or I was going to chase you until you did.”

I shake my head and chuckle.

“Too soon?” he asks.

“No. Your dark humor is actually a major turn on for me.”

“Good. I suppose I’d best sleep so I can get back to running after you.”

Chapter 101

CONAN

One week later...

“Conan, wake up, baby,” Hallie whispers.

I feel Bertie nudging my hand with his wet nose.

“Hi, trouble,” I croak.

“You’ve got visitors coming today, is that okay? You feel up for it?”

Finn has been here every day, checking up on me.

Bertie hasn’t left my side.

And Hallie has been an angel.

She thinks I don’t know that she just lies next to me while I’m sleeping, stroking my face and whispering how much she loves me.

“Declan?” I ask.

“And Finn, of course. And the twins. I’ve made some lunch. Are you hungry?”

“Starving.”

I groan as I sit myself up. She rushes to my side to help me.

---