Page 32 of Josh Dalton

I breathe deeply. “We haven’t talked about our future yet. How do you feel about kids? Do you want children?”

It takes a moment to sink in. He reaches down and rubs my tummy. “Are you pregnant?”

I nod. “Multiple tests say I am.”

“We’re having a baby.” Josh is beaming.

“You aren’t mad?”

“Not at all.” He springs from the couch with me in his arms and flings me in a circle.

He finally puts me down. My stomach is woozy. I don’t do well on carnival rides.

“This is the best news ever,” he says.

I smile. Couldn’t agree more.

EPILOGUE JOSH

I would do anything for Kim, even agree to a big wedding if that’s what she wants.

Fortunately, she doesn’t. She pushed for us to get married at the courthouse. Mom was a little disappointed, but at least she was there to attend our wedding.

Kim being pregnant is what made her decide on the courthouse. She told me she was never one of those girls who dreamed of a giant wedding. She just wanted us to start our lives together. That was all right by me.

I thought I’d be nervous, but I’m not. My brothers gave me a hard time about relinquishing my bachelorhood. I didn’t mind. Marrying Kim is the smartest thing I’ll ever do. And I’ve done a lot of smart things. See? I can joke.

I’m standing in front of the judge with my family and Kim’s friends, waiting for her to make an appearance. I glance over at my brothers because they’re being jerks, and when I look up, Kim is walking toward me in her wedding gown. She was excited about wearing it today. I can see why now. She’s absolutely stunning.

My stomach churns as I wait for her to join me. I told the judge I wanted the short version. He assured me he could do that and get us in and out of here rather quickly.

When she stops in front of me, I draw her close. I can’t help but kiss her before the ceremony.

“You’re supposed to kiss the bride after the ceremony,” the judge informs me with a laugh.

“Couldn’t help myself,” I confess with a grin.

Kim smiles and gives me a cheeky little wink, making everything all right. We exchange our vows, and I’m back to kissing my bride. People clap and congratulate us.

I think about the honeymoon. Haven’t told Kim yet where we are going. She’s been asking, but I won’t say. We’re flying south to a private island, so I can have my bride to myself. It’ll be perfect. Just like Kim. Man, am I lucky.

EPILOGUE KIM

I’ve wanted this my whole life, and now that it’s happening, don’t know if I can do it.

Josh is holding my hand and offering encouraging words. The pain is nearly unbearable.

I’ve been at the hospital for five long hours, going through labor. How do women do this? Should have had that C-section.

“It hurts.” I pant after another contraction rips through me.

Josh massages my back. “It won’t be much longer before you’re holding our baby.”

I nod because I don’t want to yell.

I feel another pull and scream out. Josh’s face contorts.That’s right, big fella. It hurts like a motherfucker.

“I see the head,” the doctor says. “One more push, and your baby will be here.”

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