Page 62 of Capitally Unexpected

He talks about our future like it’s a foregone conclusion. It rekindles my kernel of hope into a full-blown flame.

“Mich?” His face looks quizzical. I realize I’ve been quiet for too long.

“I think I love you,” I blurt out, my cheeks immediately flaming.

“You think so, do you?” he asks with the smirk that could melt a million panties firmly in place. But I want it directed only at me from now on.

“Well, that’s convenient. Because I know I love you.” He leans forward and taking my mouth in a soft, but all-consuming kiss. He puts his love into each pass of his lips.

Someone outside the fence cat calls, and we pull away slowly, our foreheads tipping together, smiles blindingly large.

“Yeah, I’d read that fanfic,” Laurel says from behind Hunter, and our whole group laughs as I settle under his arm against his side. My hand settles on my stomach, Cumulus moving around more than usual. It’s a milder Halloween evening, but the warmth of hearing this man, the father of my baby girl, a cornerstone of our family, cares about me could keep me warm in the coldest of nights.

Epistolary Interlude #3

BRANDT BROTHERS AND PARTNERS GROUP CHAT

Duncan

Everyone knows their assignments for dinner tomorrow?

Spencer

How did Duncan get put in charge of a Thanksgiving dinner not being held in one of his apartments? I’m pretty sure he hasn’t cooked himself a meal in a decade.

Jax

I wasn’t stopping him.

Preston

I wasn’t stopping him.

Charlotte

Cuties.

Michelle and Jax, have they warned you about twenty questions and being ready to say what you’re thankful for?

Jax

What’s that now?

Michelle

Tell me more.

Spencer

You’re letting them in on trade secrets.

Hayden

Don’t worry, we won’t warn anyone you ever bring to Thanksgiving dinner.

Spencer

Yeah, that’ll happen anytime soon. Everyone in my lab is married to science, someone else, or aromantic. And considering I only leave the lab to see you people ...

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