Page 10 of Just Like Heaven

The bedroom door opens and in walks Russell with Hunter holding his hand. A smile splits across Hunter’s face when he sees me and Brooke. He has been dying to meet his sister since the day we told him he was going to be big brother. He talked to my stomach every day. Telling her all about what happened in kindergarten that day and all the adventures he wants to share with her. Showing her the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the pyramids in Egypt. Hunter started going on my work trips when he was six months old. I would have him strapped to my chest while taking photos. Brooke will be there right along with us when she gets a little older. I love being able to share these experiences with Russell and the kids.

Russ helps Hunter up on the bed. “Hi mommy,” Hunter greets me then kisses my cheek.

“Hi my sweet boy. I missed you.” I kiss his little cheek back. “Brooke has been waiting to meet you.” His little face lights up like neon sign.

“Hi Brookie. You and me are going to be the bestest friends,” he tells her. “I love you so much.” It warms my heart, seeing the love he has for his sister.

“Can I give her a kiss?” he asks.

“Of course, buddy. Just be gentle,” Russell tells him. Hunter gently leans over and kisses Brooke on her tiny cheek. Brooke coos happily in response. Hunter crawls to the other side of the bed and lays down next to me and Brooke. Telling Brooke all about her cousins and what they did at Sam and Maxine’s.

“How are you feeling, buttercup? Do you need anything?” My sweet husband always looking out for me. I still can’t believe he is mine. We eloped to Paris eight years ago during one of my work trips. Neither one of us wanted a big wedding. Sam and Maxine were there, and Russell’s parents were by his side. It was a simple ceremony full of love. Three years later, Hunter was born and now our little family is complete with Brooke.

“Tired but happy.” He leans in and kisses me. “How about I take the kids while you take a nap? Your dad will be here in a few hours.”

My dad coming back into Sam and I’d lives has been the biggest surprise. Two years ago, my dad showed up on my doorstep, apologizing for not being there for me and Sam. He divorced mom. The divorce took two years to finalize because mom fought him on everything. In the end, he just gave her what she wanted. The houses and the cars were not worth the fight. He just wanted to be done with her. Now he is a devoted grandfather, spending as much time with them as he can. We have family dinners every Saturday. He even started working with Sam at his law firm. We are making up for lost time.

“Hey bud, let’s give Brooke a tour of your room while mom gets some sleep.” He takes Brooke in his arms.

“Have a good nap, mommy. I love you.” Hunter gives me another kiss on the cheek before he climbs down from the bed.

“I love you too, my sweet boy.” I turn my attention to Russell. He is rocking Brooke in his arms. He is so sexy holding our baby. I love watching him with our kids. Russell is an amazing father and husband. We are so lucky he’s ours. He makes everyday better than the last.

“I love you, my sweet husband.”

“I love you too, buttercup.”

---