Page 27 of Defy
"Wouldn't have missed your and Bella's big day," Nikolai says. Slinging the diaper bag over my shoulder, I snuggle Breanna in my arms, and we walk into the building along with everyone else.
Logan and I sit at a table before an older, grey-haired judge and our lawyer stands. After going through the swearing-in process, we run through stating our names, address, and occupation before our lawyer speaks.
"Your Honor, we're here today in the matter of the adoption of Breanna." Our lawyer addresses the judge.
"I see we have a room full," the judge smiles, then addresses Logan and I directly, "Are you two prepared for what lies ahead? Are you prepared to take care of her until the legal age of eighteen?"
"Your honor, we'll take care of her for the rest of her life. She'll never want for anything," Logan declares.
The judge looks down at the papers he's shifting in his hands before picking up a pen he begins to write, "Mr. Kane, I have no doubt she will be well loved and cared for. Your caseworker has had nothing but good things to say about you and your wife." Lifting his head, he asks, "Mrs. Kane, could you please tell the court the full name of your daughter to be recorded."
My stomach flutters as excitement takes over. "Breanna Rose Kane, your honor," I say proudly. Reaching for her daddy, I pass Breanna to Logan. Logan's mom meant the world to him, so Breanna's middle name honors that love.
Rising from his seat, the judge makes his way to us, "Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Kane." He hands Breanna a fuzzy brown teddy bear, which she eagerly grasps hold of in her hands. The room erupts in applause from our family. Reaching out, my husband and the judge shake hands.
"I wish your family all the best," he proclaims.
We're in the middle of taking a few pictures with the judge when I whisper to Logan, "Are you ready for your surprise?"
He pulls me into his side, "Surprise me."
I glance around the room to catch my sister and Sofia eagerly waiting for me to reveal my secret. I lean on my tiptoes and whisper in his ear, "I'm pregnant."
