Page 118 of Triplet Babies for Pucking Christmas

“Hey, man,” Carter says, sounding like his usual self, but there’s something in his voice that makes me pause. “You got a sec?”

“Yeah. I’m in the hospital right now. Savannah just had the babies.”

“Shit, man. Congrats. That’s huge.”

I smile, even though I’m too tired for it to mean much. “Yeah, thanks.” I want to keep it short, but then I remember what kind of guy Carter is. He’s not the type to call just for small talk. “What’s going on?”

There’s a hesitation on the other end. “I hate to interrupt, but I’ve got something I think you need to know. It’s about the Blackhawks.”

I sit up a little straighter, already sensing this is more than a casual chat. “What about them?”

“I think we can shut this merger deal down once and for all.”

“How, Carter?”

“This is big, Jared, but we are going to need a private investigator. A very discreet one.”

I sit back, my mind spinning. A PI. Shit. The last thing I want is more drama, more shit to deal with.

But I know Carter’s right. If there is a scandal brewing with the Blackhawks, it’s only a matter of time before something comes to light. And it better come out before my team is tied up with theirs.

“You sure about this, Carter? I don’t have time to waste on some bullshit.”

“I’m sure,” Carter says, and he’s quiet for a second. “Look, I wouldn’t be calling you if it wasn’t important. I just want you to be prepared. I’ve seen the stuff they’re putting together. It could ruin everything.”

I sigh, pressing my fingers to my temple. “All right. All right. I’ll find someone. Thanks for the heads-up.”

“No problem, man,” Carter replies. “And again, congrats on the babies. I know this is a lot right now, but don’t let this other shit drag you down.”

“Thanks, I appreciate it,” I mutter, even though my brain’s still racing.

We hang up, and I just sit there for a second, trying to get my bearings. The last thing I need right now is more trouble.

But Carter’s right. I can’t ignore this. If the Blackhawks are making moves like that, I’ve got to be ready.

Chapter Forty-Nine

Jared

It’s Christmas. I can hardly believe it. Savannah’s out of the hospital, the babies are all healthy, and we’re finally on our way home. There’s a buzz in the air, like everything’s falling into place. It’s chaotic and wild, but damn, it feels right.

Troy’s driving like a maniac—he’s literally bouncing in the seat, eyes gleaming. “We’re really doing this. Fuck, man. We’re taking them home. It’s happening. It’s really happening.”

He keeps glancing back at Savannah and the babies in the back seat, like he can’t believe they’re finally all here. It’s like he’s a kid on Christmas morning.

And maybe he is. Literally.

I catch Savannah’s eye in the rearview mirror. She looks so content, smiling softly at the babies, her hands resting on their carriers.

Her lips are a little cracked from the cold air, but she’s glowing. I love seeing this side of her—calm, peaceful, so happy. It’s like she’s been waiting for this day forever.

We pull into the driveway of the house. Jesus, it’s all lit up like something out of a movie.

Red and gold lights twinkle, and there’s a massive wreath on the door. The tree inside is probably bigger than it should be, packed with ornaments and tinsel. It smells like cinnamon and pine. You can feel the holiday spirit in every corner.

“This place looks like a fucking Hallmark movie,” I mutter under my breath.

“Right?” Troy says, grinning like a damn fool. “We’re gonna have the best Christmas ever, man. I swear to you.”

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