Page 78 of It's Always Us

I sigh “Fine. I’m in Ohio.”

“Shit,” Shane mumbles.

“I’m at Cal’s with Lex.”

“And,” Sean says, and if I know my brother, he’s smiling.

“And . . . those rumors about me getting married were true. Lex and I are married. We told Cal last night, and now I’m telling you.”

There’s nothing but complete silence, except the sounds coming from the kitchen where Lex is making breakfast.

“That was months ago,” Sean says like he’s processing.

“Yes, we’ve been taking things . . . slow.”

“Mark,” Shane barks out. “You better not screw this up.”

I laugh. “I’m not going to. Trust me.”

“When do we get to welcome Lex to the family?” Sean asks. “I’m looking forward to seeing her without vomit slime all over her.”

“I’m not sure. I’m here for another day, and then I’ll be back. PT will hopefully be releasing me for light training soon.”

“You’ve got to get out of the city,” Shane says, Papa Bear acting like he’s three steps ahead of me.

“I know, man. I’m working on it.” I take another breath and let it out, readying myself to tell the most miraculous part. “There’s one more thing.” Both my brothers wait. “We’re having a baby.”

Nothing. Dead silence.Stillnothing. I check the phone to make sure I didn’t lose them, and the call timer ticks away.

Then . . . Shane’s low laugh comes through. “You’ve got to be shittin’ me. Ha.Youare going to be a father.”

The shit-eating grin that covers my face could light up a city.

“You jackass. How in the hell did you beat me to this?” Sean laughs. “Damn. After the game, we’re celebrating. Bro, I’m so happy for you.”

“Thanks. I’m hoping Lex will come with me. I can’t wait to see you guys.” These guys. My best friends. My brothers. My family.

“Can’t wait, man,” Sean says.

“Get ready for Maggie to blow up your phone,” Shane laughs again.

“I’m ready. I’ll see you boys soon.”

We hang up, and I find Lex in the kitchen eating toast and eggs.

“How’d it go?” She pushes a plate toward me.

“I blew their minds, but they can’t wait to welcome you to the family.”

She smiles. “I like the sound of that.”

“Me, too.” I just have to make sure she stays.

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ROB: New York is getting antsy. You need to meet with them. See what they’re offering and sign or let them know you’re entertaining other offers.

ME: How long do I have?

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