Page 29 of The Heat of Intensity

Rourke chokes on his own saliva and Eastlynne whirls her head his way. “It’s all your fault. You and your sperm hitting jackpot with an orgasm that lasted a fragment while I’m gonna be in pain for hours. This was a bad idea. Really, really baaaaaaaaadddddd ouch, motherfucker.”

“Cosima is pregnant,” Parker suddenly states.

My sister’s attention slides to him, the pain still edged on her face as her eyes now slide to mine. “How the fuck do you want to do this all over again when you experienced it once before?”

The corner of my mouth twitches. “Let’s finish that discussion once you’re holding your little one.”

She falls into Rourke’s arms and he gently rubs her back while everyone falls silent until we reach the hospital. They usher her away while Parker and I wait in the waiting room. Hours later, when it’s early morning, we finally get the news that Rourke and Eastlynne’s son is born.

Both are healthy and are resting. When we’re allowed to visit, I can see for myself how my sister looks bone tired, but the smile on her face as she stares down at her son is priceless.

“That’s how I can do it again,” I tell her.

My sister’s gaze collides with mine.

She nods. “I get it, but I also get waiting till the time is right. I’m happy you’re pregnant, and I’m even more happy I’m not anymore. This little bundle here was a weight to carry around and one hell of a pain to put on this earth. Right now, though? The weight of him has shifted and it feels like it’s now pressing on my shoulders in the way of responsibility. Scary as fuck.”

Rourke leans in and brushes a kiss against her temple. “That’s why we have a huge brotherhood filled with family, blood or no blood. We all carry that burden to lighten the load. Jensen here already has a load of brothers, and many more to come.”

“Damn right,” Parker rumbles and places a protective hand over my belly.

I lean back and cover his hand with mine. My heart is overflowing with love and gratitude for the life we’re all graced with. Through havoc and smiles, heavy burdens, and painful events, we’re there for one another no matter what.

That prospect opens doors for new adventures, and I personally can’t wait to see what the future might hold. Besides giving birth in about seven months from now.

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