Page 78 of Miracles and Marriage

Everyone had come to wish them well. Her brothers and sister who had their own place now lived close enough to visit often. She still had five siblings living at home. She loved seeing them all, especially the children.

Her heart was full. This time next year her own child would join the family gatherings. She could hardly wait.

She glanced at Cal. She thought he’d been surprised by the warm welcome everyone gave him. She knew her family would include him without question since he made her so happy.

Her mom had prepared a huge spread that filled the dining room table, so people could eat as they wished and go back for more. Her father had brought a case of champagne and there had been a dozen toasts to their happiness.

“Any regrets?” she asked.

He looked at her and shook his head. Leaning over, he gave her a soft kiss.

“I was thinking in another year our boy or girl will be here, getting use to this chaos at an earlier age than I’m having to do.”

Zoe giggled. “Hard to believe. By then, you’ll know everyone and fit right in.”

Just then three year old Tessie came up to Cal and lifted her arms. “Up,” she said.

He looked at her and then at Zoe.

“Well, pick her up,” she said with a smile.

Cal was surprised how light the little girl was. With her dark hair and big blue eyes and rosy cheeks, she was the picture of a beautiful little princess. It made him wonder if his child would be a girl or boy. Either was fine by him.

“You sure it’s all right?” he asked. “She doesn’t know me.”

Tessie snuggled against him and closed her eyes.

“Of course it’s all right. You’re her Uncle Cal, she’s perfectly safe with you and she knows it.”

“Uncle Cal,” he said with a catch in his voice. “I don’t think I ever expected anything like this.”

“You’re a natural. You’ll be a fantastic father. I already think you’re a fantastic husband.”

Her heart swelled for this man. He was more than she ever hoped for, and knew she’d love him until forever.

He gazed into her eyes, his love clearly evident.

“I think you’re fantastic, too. And every person in your family. Maybe next time we could suggest name tags.”

Zoe laughed.

“You’ll get to know everybody soon enough. We’ll have Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day coming before long. And then all the birthdays for you to get to know everyone. One thing this family loves to do is celebrate together whenever possible.”

“Our child will be surrounded by love,” he said slowly.

“Starting with us,” she said.

“Starting with us,” he agreed.