Page 31 of A Moment In Time

Booker laughed. “That’s my sister for you. She knows what she wants, and she’s not afraid to go after it.”

“I think Rand’s still a little intimidated by her.”

“Smart man. He should be.”

Londyn took a step back. “I’ll go get your food ordered.”

Gage drank some coffee, then noticed Clementine was in uniform. “You told me Sunday was your last day.”

“It was. Deputy Kimbal was delayed another day. He’s coming today for sure, though. I just wanted to welcome him in uniform.”

“Deputy Kimbal, huh?”

Booker nodded. “Chase Kimbal. This is actually his first assignment. He just left the academy.”

“What do you think about that?”

“At least he won’t have any bad habits to break.”

“That’s something I guess. So he’s young then.”

Booker looked at Clementine. “He’s older than my last deputy.”

“Well, sure, who isn’t?”

Clementine nudged Gage. “Shut up. You’ll be happy I’m young and enthusiastic when it comes to your campaign.”

“If I’m the only one running. It’s not going to be much of a campaign.”

“Just let me believe for a moment that it might be fun and I’ll be useful.”

“Okay. It’s going to be a blast.”

She smiled. “Yes it is.” She touched her stomach. “Oh.”

“Are you okay?”

“The baby just kicked me.” She took his hand. “Do you want to feel it?”

He pulled his hand away. “No. I’m good.”

Booker laughed. “It’s pretty cool, actually.”

“You go ahead. I’ll touch him when he’s on the outside of my sister’s body.”

Booker put his hand on Clementine’s stomach. “It has to be a boy. That’s a strong kick.”

Clementine shook her head. “Maybe she’s a strong girl.”

He laughed. “Well, if she’s anything like her mother, I’m screwed.”

Gage watched them for a moment. “Why aren’t you guys terrified by the prospect of being parents? Elaina is about to deliver and Pax is totally chill about it. Remy has number two coming, while number one isn’t even crawling. I don’t get it.”

Booker smiled. “You will. When it’s your baby, you’ll get it.”

“Hmm. I’m not sure I’m ready to follow in the new Calaway trend of populating Calaway Crossing.”

Clementine took his hand. “When you find the right woman, you’ll change your mind.”

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