Page 139 of Three of a Kind

That’s kinda crazy to me.

I would have killed to have my mom around when I gave birth to Libby. Even in the few weeks after, when I was adjusting to being a new mom, I would have gladly accepted any and all help.

“Just think about it,” Noble says. “But it’s not going to hurt my feelings if you aren’t interested. Although, both my moms will want to come for a visit when things settle down. We’ll be lucky if we get away with just the two of them, and my sisters don’t tag along.”

I chuckle, but thinking of his sisters reminds me of Lennox. We spoke a few nights ago, and she seemed a little better. She mentioned she wasn’t planning to head back to New York, but she turned me down when I invited her to come to Virginia.

Ultimately, she knows she can call if she needs me, and I got the distinct impression that she was ready to try making her own way.

“Mommy, close you eyes,” Libby says.

I laugh, shaking my head as my eyes fall shut.

Noble’s hand leaves my hip, likely to help keep her up. It feels like she walks across the booth between me and Gunner.

She pats my arm, and I turn toward her with my eyes still shut.

“Open ’em,” she says, giggling.

My eyes pop open, and she’s holding a ring box with a beautiful round diamond engagement ring.

“We’re getting married,” she says, giggling.

“You’re getting married,” Maverick says, holding his phone up, like he’s taking pictures. “She was supposed to say, Congratulations, Mommy. You’re getting married.”

“Yeah.” Libby nods, shaking the box. “That.”

“We also got you this.” Gunner holds out a necklace box, popping it open. It’s a very simple white gold chain. “Since swelling is more and more common the further along you get, we figured you could wear it on the necklace. If you want.”

I take the ring from Libby. “It’s beautiful. Thank you guys so much.”

“Is that a yes?” Noble rumbles.

“We’re bonded.” I snort. “Of course, it’s a yes.”

Epilogue

Maverick

Two Months Later

Someone lied when they claimed pregnancy was nine months. It’s the full forty weeks, meaning pregnancy technically goes to the beginning of the tenth month. It feels like this is something they should teach widely, like to the masses.

I peek in on Libby, and she’s knocked out.

Nova lays across the bottom of the bed, and I don’t even bother getting on to her anymore.

They’re a team.

Anytime I try to suggest Nova sleep on her perfectly fine dog bed, located only a few feet away, Libby ruthlessly shuts that plan down.

It doesn’t bother me that my dog traded me in for a toddler.

Not one bit.

The traitor.

No, but it really is fine. It helps me feel better, knowing Libby isn’t alone.

---