Page 80 of Small Town Frenzy

“You’re my baby.”

“I’m big boy. Almost,” he says, holding up four fingers again.

Griffin asks, “Almost how old?”

Turning to look up at him, Jacob grins, the little goose. “Four.”

“Yeah, four. Exciting stuff.” He looks at me and laughs. “They’re quality hats.” Griffin’s smile spreads like wildfire across his face as he sets the hat on his son’s head. “I was wondering if you had plans for your birthday next weekend?” He glances at me.

I reply, “We were having cake and ice cream at the house with Savvy and Judy.”

Jacob’s eyes brighten. “Cake!”

Griffin asks, “What do you think about having a little party at the ranch with my family?”

“I want that.” Jacob hops on his butt down the steps and then climbs back up. “Cake with Griffin.”

“I can’t wait,” I say, sitting on the other side of Jacob. My eyes meet Griffin’s over his head, and I nod. He doesn’t need the go-ahead. He already has it, but I just want him to know I’m here to support him as well.

Griffin wraps his arm around Jacob’s shoulders and brings him into his fold. “I have some great news to share with you, Champ.”

CHAPTER 33

Griffin

Big blue eyesthat match my own, my mom’s, my dad’s, brother’s, sister’s, and nieces’ stare into mine with all the hope in the world shining in them. The moment I met this kid, my son, my kid, I felt an indescribable bond. I think he feels the same as he rests his hand on my leg.Trust.

I look at Cricket, who has her gaze directed toward the river in the distance and tears welling in her eyes. I thanked her for giving me a child, but she did so much more than that.

She gave me my life.Back.

She gave me a purpose.Something to look forward to.

She gave me her heart.Without any conditions.

And this incredible little human.And made me a dad.

When the quiet starts to stretch, she looks over at me with a smile that could make any man’s heart weaken, but it gives mine strength. No words need to be said. She’s given me more than I ever deserved. I won’t let her down.

I open my hand. Jacob slaps his down on top of it. Sosmall, it fits within the confines of my palm. I was his father from the beginning, but I want to remember this, the day I officially became his dad. “You know, Jacob, we have a lot in common.”

“Baseball.”

Chuckling, I say, “Yep. Baseball. And we both like bull riding.” I back up to gesture toward his belt. “You’re even a champ.”

“You are,” he says, twisting his arms together shyly.

“Third counts.”

Cricket says, “Third counts when you’re riding a bull. Good lord, if you ever have this kid—” She waves her hands like she’s washing the windows. “Nope. Don’t even want to think about it. Not going to happen.”

Reaching around Jacob, I lean to rub her back. “You okay over there?”

“No bull riding, okay?” Her voice is firm despite the kindness in her eyes.

I look at Jacob. “No bull riding. You heard your mom.”

“Aw, man.” He stomps his boot with fisted hands, but only once. I’m thinking his interests lie more in the buckle and prize than his ambitions for the sport. It’s not one I’m going to push. It’s fucking dangerous. I was stupid for doing it.