Page 134 of Samuel

Derrick.

Sam checked to make sure Evie’s dress was on before he swung the door open, relief melting into the face staring at him.

“Jesus. You guys had us fucking worried.”

“Sorry. It’s all good here. Neither one of us had a phone.”

“And the south road washed out again,” Derrick said.

“Yeah, Evie mentioned that after she got out here. We figured it was best to just stay put and travel back in the morning.”

“Well, there’s a search party out looking for you guys. I’ll give them all a call and let them know you’re good and on your way back.”

“Thanks.”

Derrick looked over Sam’s shoulder.

“Evie. Everything okay?”

“I’m good.”

He looked back at Sam. “Your mother and sister were convinced the baby was coming. With the storm and all.”

“I thought that might be the case for a while, too. But it looks like she’s going to behave and stay in there a little longer.”

His eyes shifted between Sam and Evie.

“Is everything okay, Derrick?” Evie asked as she stepped next to Sam. His hand was instantly around her back, keeping her close.

“No. I really hate to do this to you, Sam, especially after the day you both had. But I got a call from my mom and I need to go home for a few days. It’s an emergency. Was hoping you’d understand.”

“Oh, of course we do. Is it one of your sisters?” Evie moved from behind Sam and rested her hand on Derrick’s arm. “Is there anything we can do to help?”

“That’s really kind of you, but it’s just something we all need to be together for.”

“Will you make it back in time for John and Abby’s wedding?” Sam knew both Derrick and Zeke had been invited.

“I’m gonna try real hard to be back by then.”

“Good.” Sam nodded. “Well, you take care of whatever you need to with your family, and we’ll be here when you are ready to come back.”

“I appreciate it. Now, let’s get you both back and call off that search party.”

Thirty-Eight

“Ilove you so much.”

I love you too,Evie thought as she drifted to the surface after a dreamless night. A heavy, warm hand roamed over her belly before she felt a light kiss on her tight skin.

“You have to be a good girl for your mama today,” Sam whispered. “It’s a special day for our family and I want her to be able to relax and enjoy it. She’s been so worried about missing it. So, here’s the deal, Jellybean. You let your mama laugh with her friends, eat some of the really yummy dinner, dance a couple times with daddy, and then you can come whenever you want. Okay?”

Evie forced herself to hide her laugh when Jellybean thumped her little feet against his hand.

“You’re going to be a daddy’s girl, aren’t you? I think I’ve known from the first time I felt you move. That’s why I’ve already got a pony picked out for you if you behave today. Now, I’m gonna go get you and your mama breakfast. Love you, baby girl.” Another kiss landed right over where the baby’s feet had been stretching against the cramped space.

Evie laid still until she heard the bedroom door shut. And then she let the laughter she’d been holding in loose. A few tears had to be brushed away, but they were soaked in happiness.

An hour later, she’d showered and laughed as Sam fed her an over-the-top breakfast. She’d been absolutely stuffed, but he mumbled something about not trusting her to eat anything once she got gabbing with the girls.

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