Page 134 of The Merger

Jason: I’d want to get away from Banks too.

Renn: Let’s celebrate! Everyone want to come over tonight?

Jason: We’re not doing anything.

Bianca: I wanna come.

Ripley: Sure.

Tate: Can I bring Mimi? It’s our date night.

I lean against the wall and watch my siblings banter back-and-forth. Suddenly, I see the beauty in it. I see it from another angle.

We’re the only ones who understand what we’ve gone through. When the world has been against us, we’ve stuck together. And even though we weren’t raised as tight-knit as some families, we’ve managed to grow that bond ourselves.

And now our children will grow up with cousins and aunts and uncles. These people, my brothers and sister, will be the safety net for my kids. Even though they irritate me and we bicker back and forth, they really are the best people I know.

Maybe I should try a little more with them.

Me: Let me check with Carys but I think we should be able to swing it.

Jason: Can’t wait.

Ripley: Awesome.

Renn: See you guys around seven?

Tate: I’ll be there.

Bianca: Someone FaceTime me.

I grin, sliding my phone in my pocket, and go find my fiancé.

Chapter Thirty-Three

Carys

Hi, Sweet Pea.

You’re moving so much! I swear you never stop flipping around in my tummy. You only get calm when Daddy reads you a story before bed. He’s convinced you like historical biographies, but I’m positive you get bored. I’m pushing for more entertaining tales at bedtime. I’ll do my best.

We got a new car today so you can be safe. It’s nice with heated seats, a sunroof, and automatic window controls. Quite the upgrade from the Gremlin. I think you’ll love it. Very posh. I’m also going to slide a picture into the back of this book of your dad driving the Gremlin around the yard. It’s proof of how much he loves you. Ha!

Love,

Mommy

We finished your nursery tonight. It’s so stinking cute. We had to lock the door so your Uncle Tate doesn’t try to peek in and get a hint as to whether you’re a boy or girl. Daddy and I love having the secret just for us. For a couple more months, we have you just to ourselves.

Love,

Mommy

We picked your name! And it’s perfect.

It’s almost time to hold you, sweet baby!

Mommy xo