Page 31 of The Ruby Dragon's Unconventional Mate

“I’ll take over plating,” Lachlan said.

Samuel followed with the baby. “When did they come?”

“Bryant was here before I got the girls down here. Lachlan was ten minutes behind. Poor Logan was so scared.” He settled Grant on one of the huge floor pillows, covering him with a blanket and patting his back.

Grant hiccupped, but then he was asleep, his body going lax. He did everything with such enthusiasm. Even sleep.

“Wow. Well, I guess they were returning the favor.”

“I think so.” He leaned against Samuel. “We’re both trying to find a new path, you know?”

“Hmmm.” Samuel pursed his lips, studying him a moment. “Okay. Well, be careful.”

“I am, but he’s here, you know? They both are.” He smiled at Samuel. “Thank you for being my fierce defender.”

“Hey, you’re my bestie.” Samuel put the baby down too, corralling her in with pillows on her blanket but not so close she could get under one. She slept on, just out of it.

“Same with you.” He hugged Samuel hard. “I love you, crazy dragon.”

“I love you, earth papa. Now, those pancakes smell good…”

“You two go eat.” Jake came in holding a plate. “I have mine, and I’ll watch them.”

“They’re sound asleep.” He handed over the remote with a smile.

“Yeah. Grant was a wee bit grumpy. Bryant said he’d make extra stuff to warm up later. He’s a pancake-making machine.”

“I’m going to get some for myself, and?—”

Baby two. Another boy.

Are they healthy? Is Kota okay? Is he done?

I think he’s done. I hope he is.Logan sounded a little panicked actually.

Do you need anything?

No. No. We’re okay. Simon has it. Can you just keep the girls busy?

Bryant is making pancakes.

Oh, wow.

Yeah. Tell Kota I love him.

I will. I’ll be down to show them off as soon as I can.

I believe you.He grinned, heading in with Samuel. “We have two boys.”

“Cool!” Bryant flipped another pancake, and Lachlan had both the girls now, his wings partially spread now as he danced around the kitchen.

They were curled into Lachlan’s arms, their expressions blissful and focused.

Someone’s in love,he teased Bryant.

I think so too. He’s just—He’s been afraid he would scare kids. So this is such a good thing for him. Thank you.

Those babies aren’t scared. They are absolutely overjoyed.“The pancakes smell amazing.”

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