Page 318 of Steamy Ever After

“Sorry, I was comparing your brother-in-law’s behavior with Lang’s when I was pregnant.”

“Something else we need to discuss, Peyton.”

“You know?”

“My parents and my brothers do too.”

“I can’t believe he would do this.” She shook her head. “Can we change the subject?”

Skye leaned over and put her hand on Peyton’s arm. “Is there a place you and I could speak privately?”

“She isn’t supposed to be on her feet,” Brodie responded.

Peyton smiled, but stood. “Of course. Follow me. I need some fresh air.”

The two went out to the porch.

“Spencer was two weeks early,” Skye began after they sat in two wicker chairs. “I’ve wanted to discuss this with you, but I wasn’t sure how to handle it.”

“What did you want to talk about?”

“Mac and I want to name the baby Kade. Since everyone is here, the timing would be good to ask. However, I told Mac I needed to talk to you about it first.”

“Skye, you and your husband do not need to discuss your child’s name with me. You should name your son whatever you want to. But since you asked, I think it would be a wonderful tribute, not only to your brother, but to your whole family.”

“Mac said you wouldn’t mind, but I feel better asking.”

“I appreciate it.”

After a few minutes of silence, Skye asked, “Should we go inside?”

“I’d like to stay out here a while longer if you don’t mind.”

“Would you like to be alone?”

“No, there’s something I’d like to talk to you about, too.”

BRODIE

Alex sat on the sofa, next to Brodie, and elbowed him. “How are you doing with all this?”

He ran his hand through his hair and blew the air out of his lungs. “I feel like I survived a plane crash.”

“Right?” She laughed. “So it never dawned on you she was pregnant?”

“Nope. It should’ve, but it sure as hell didn’t.” Brodie leaned in closer to her. “I don’t know how to thank you.”

“You may need to return the favor one day.”

“What do you mean?”

“There may come a time you need to pull your brother’s head out of his ass for me.”

“Sure he’s worth it?”

Alex’s expression turned serious quickly. Instead of smiling, she frowned. “Yeah, Brode, I am.”

She stood and went to sit next to her mother. Brodie tried to catch Mad’s eye, but his brother looked lost in thought, and no happier than Alex.

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