Page 27 of Snug with the Mountain Man

She nods, taking my hand and pressing it gently to the side of her belly. And there it is.

“That’s our girl,” I murmur, my voice rough. “Already making trouble.”

“Like her dad.”

I lower my head to hers. “If she ends up like her mama, I’ll count myself lucky.”

Maisie’s eyes shine. “You’re going to be such a good dad.”

“I’m gonna try like hell.”

I kiss her forehead, then her lips. She tastes like cinnamon and cider and home.

We sway together for a long time. No words, just the music, the lights, and this unshakable truth: this is the life I never knew I needed. A woman who lights me up from the inside. A baby on the way. A small town that doesn’t care if I’m quiet, so long as I show up with love in my eyes and my girl at my side.

Later, we stop by Annie’s pie booth that’s currently being manned by Dottie. She squeals when she sees us and places both hands on Maisie’s belly.

“You take care of my girl in there,” she tells the bump, misty-eyed.

Then she looks at me. “And you better take care of them both, Ford Kane.”

“Always,” I say without hesitation.

Dottie winks. “Good answer.”

Back at home, I help Maisie out of her boots, rub her feet while she groans in pleasure, and carry her to bed like the greedy, grateful man I am.

Because the truth is, five years ago I was just a man with a toolbox. And now? Now I’m hers…forever.