Page 105 of Three of a Kind

Libby is going to be a great big sister. I know she’ll be helpful and want to do everything she can to participate…

And my fear of what would happen when Avan found out robbed her of so many months to come to terms with all the changes.

She’s used to being an only child with all my attention.

“Hey,” Maverick says, tilting my face to his. “We can close the box and revisit this one later.”

My head shakes.

I think it’s time.

Avan has controlled our lives for long enough.

It’s hard to be a good parent when you live in constant fear of the other parent’s wrath.

“No,” I say, running my fingers over the soft material of the T-shirt. “It’s time.”

Despite my massive declaration, I don’t actually call Libby over. I give her a few minutes to color in peace as I flip through the baby book and pack photo album.

Libby hops up a few minutes later and brings her coloring book over for us to look at.

Maverick grabs the box with the T-shirt and drops it onto the table. “That’s so pretty. You made that?”

“I did,” she says, nodding.

“It’s great,” Gunner says, tickling her side.

“You want to come sit with me, Mama?” Noble asks.

I nod, making sure to give Gunner and Maverick a kiss on the cheek before I go.

Once I’m within reach, Noble pulls me into his lap, facing the room. He wraps his long arms around me from behind, sending steady comfort in the bond.

“Okay, so, we have one more for each of you.” Gunner grabs the big box.

“Why don’t you sit with me and Mommy, so we can help you open it?” Noble offers, grabbing the box and setting it on the arm of the chair.

“Okay!” Libby turns around, dropping the coloring book. She runs over and climbs up next to me. “Mommy, we gots so many gifts.” She rests her head on my boob, and I lean down to kiss the top of her head.

“We do,” I choke out. “We should say thank you.”

“Thank you,” she squeals, clapping. “Can I have my big one?”

Noble laughs. “Here you go, shortstack.” He puts it down in my lap, but it’s long enough to cover me and Libby. “Do you like babies?”

My heart races.

I don’t even know what’s in the box.

“Well, this is something special,” Maverick says.

My eyes dart to him, and he gives an encouraging smile.

“Go on,” Gunner says.

Libby doesn’t need any additional permission. She rips into the wrapping paper covering the box. The top of the box says “New Baby Care Center.” It has a high chair, a changing table, even a washer for clothes. It’s pretty big, by the looks of it.

“For my baby doll?” Libby gasps. “I’m gonna get her.” She shoves the box out of the way, slides down Noble’s lap, and books it toward the bedroom.

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