Page 91 of Whispers of My Skin

He says nothing, just nods and smiles.

He’s been pushing for this since Scarlett turned two, and now she’s four.

“Is fall okay for you, God willing? What are your plans for November?” I quickly calculate, thinking if we start trying now…

“For real?” He shoots me an incredulous look.

“You know I wouldn’t joke about something as important as this.”

“Tara…” Joel seems lost for words, but happily so.

“You’re really sure? You definitely want this?” I ask, already knowing the answer.

“As much as I want you,” he whispers before kissing me hard on the lips.

Scarlett squirms in his arms, protesting that it’s gross her parents are kissing, and we both burst out laughing.

Joel throws her in the air again and I hold my breath. Although I know she’s perfectly safe with Joel, it’s always too high for my liking.

“You’re going to have a baby brother, princess. Do you want to have a baby brother?” he laughs.

He sets her on the ground and our little girl skips away, making plans with her dolls and her tea set. She’s no idea what it’ll mean to have another baby around. Yet.

“So, you wanna get me knocked up, hmm?” I murmur as I hug him, wrapping my arms around his slim waist.

“Let me answer that tonight, after I’ve taken you out to dinner to celebrate. When I have you naked, hot and wet, then you’ll get my answer.”

“I already have your answer, Joel,” I laugh. “It’s shining in your eyes.”

“I know what I want, but are you really sure about this?” he asks, trailing a path of kisses along my jaw.

“I am, but I’ll still take you up on the offer to persuade me,” I grin, feeling his matching smile pressing against my skin.

Remembering that afternoon when I went looking for Joel with some crazy scheme I’d dreamt up, I never thought I’d end up rewarded with the wonderful life we share together now. The dreams I didn’t even know existed have all come true.

And now I believe…no… I know …

Where whispers of love linger, eternal hope remains.

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