Page 139 of Johnathan

“Well I sure am glad to be home for Christmas, and I have a new sister to initiate into the family.”

“Jordan…”

“No way, man. Grace already knew all of Jackson’s embarrassing stories from when we were growing up. I’m not losing my only chance to razz you.”

“You know, he does still need to tell me that boat story.”

“So, there we all wer?—”

“Santa is amazing!!” Katy yelled, running in from the kitchen with a cookie in her hand. Abby laughed, knowing a sugar crash of epic proportions was in store for their little girl.

“He really is, isn’t he, ladybug?” John tickled her sides. “Thanks for the save, kiddo.”

Abby laughed, but Katy just carried on, not thinking anything about what her dad had just said.

“Yes! He gave me my wishes before Christmas!!”

“Did you ask for your favorite uncle to come home from school?” Jordan asked.

“No,” Katy rolled her eyes and let out a squeal as Jordan took over tickling her sides. “I wealy wanted a mommy. And Abby say yes when I ask!” The room filled with happy murmurs. “Now I know he gives me a baby brudder!”

Every face, including John’s, turned towards Abby.

“Not yet!!” Abby felt her body heat under the scrutiny of her friends and family. “Santa hasn’t given us that present yet, Katy. Maybe next Christmas. After your dad and I get married.”

“But Aunt Gracie has a baby in her belly!” she whined. “A baby brudder for Jack Jack. I want one too!”

Abby’s head whipped towards Grace, who was staring at Katy in awe.

“Are you?”

“No,” Grace shook her head. “Not that I know. I was waiting to take the test because I didn’t want to ruin Christmas.”

“You know,” Nellie smiled, “John told me when I was pregnant with Jackson. Came right up to me and said ‘Mama baby in belly’. Maybe she’s onto something.”

“Well if she’s right, I’ll be writing to Santa myself to say thank you.” Jackson slid his hand across Grace’s belly and kissed her cheek.

“Our own Christmas miracle would be nice.”

“Do you…”

She nodded. “In my bag.”

Jackson grabbed Grace’s hand and they laughed as they left the room.

“Why am I nervous for them? I feel like you’re taking the test.” John wrapped Abby in his arms.

“I can’t wait for that day for us, but it one-thousand percent needs to be after our wedding.”

“Don’t worry. I agree.” He kissed the pulse point just below her ear. “Plus, I’ve always loved the idea of making a honeymoon baby.”

She laughed. “Always?”

“Well, it’s been fun to think about since you said yes to marrying me.”

“Abby! Come over here and let me finish telling you the story of the Great Dissolving Swim Trunks…”

“I need something cold to drink, I think.” Abby laughed as she wiped the tears streaming down her face a few minutes later. She wasn’t the only one who had absolutely lost it at the story. Sam had his arms wrapped around his belly, and her mother’s face was bright red.

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