Page 171 of State of Grace (First Family 2)

Aubrey looked up at her with tears shimmering in her expressive eyes. “I wish Mommy and Daddy were here.”

“I know, sweetheart. But I think they’re somewhere nearby keeping a close eye on you and Alden and Elijah. They know you’re so loved by all of us.”

Seemingly satisfied to hear that, the little girl popped her thumb in her mouth and snuggled up to her twin, who put an arm around her.

Alden was wise beyond his years and took care of his sister with a tenderness that never failed to move Sam to tears.

“We’ll see you in the morning,” Nick said when he came in to kiss them good night.

“What time do you think they’ll be up?” Sam asked Elijah when the three of them were in the hallway.

“They were up at five last year.”

“Oh my Lord,” Sam said. “We’d better get some sleep while we can.”

Elijah hugged them both. “I know I keep saying thank you, but… I just… You guys are the best, and I’m so, so grateful to have you in our lives.”

“Right back at you, buddy,” Nick said. “We can’t remember what life was like without the three of you.”

“Merry Christmas,” Eli said.

“Sleep well,” Sam said.

“I’ll sleep very well knowing that damned custody case is over.”

After Eli walked away, Nick said, “So will I.”

“No kidding.”

“Gideon and the staff have all the Santa stuff set out in the conservatory,” Nick said. “They made the cutest signs so each child will know which gifts belong to them.”

“They’re the best. Tomorrow is going to be crazy.”

“I can’t wait to see all the excitement,” Nick said. “Let’s check on Scotty and then hit the sack. I hear we’re in for an early wakeup.”

Scotty was in bed with Skippy, who was curled up next to him. Parts and pieces of his tuxedo were scattered about the room. “I know she’s not supposed to be in my bed, but you try telling her that. The woman has a mind of her own.”

“She’s good training for your future wife,” Nick said, earning him an elbow to the gut from his wife.

“Oof,” Nick said, grinning at Sam.

“I’m so happy the judge saw things our way,” Scotty said. “I kept worrying about how we’d ever give them up.”

“Now we don’t have to,” Nick said.

“Are you guys as relieved as I am?”

“We sure are,” Sam said. “Even though we knew we had the advantage because of their parents appointing Elijah, you just never know what a judge is going to decide.” She leaned over to kiss Scotty’s forehead as she scratched Skippy’s silky head. “Get some sleep, pal. Elijah told us to expect a five a.m. wakeup.”

“Oh jeez. That’s too early.”

“Welcome to big brotherhood,” Sam said.

“Best job I ever had. Merry Christmas.”

“Same to you, buddy,” Nick said as they headed for the door.

Gideon was still in the hallway, checking a clipboard and speaking into a walkie-talkie.