Page 64 of The Rebound
“Oh God, Eden. Aren’t those really expensive?”
She shrugs. “There’s no price tag on the future of our children. Enjoy.” With that, she loops her arm in Holt’s and wanders through the house, giving herself the grand tour.
I can’t keep up with this woman, but damn, do I admire her energy. And Holt’s, for that matter. Not every man could keep up with a force like Eden Wynn.
Summer passes by with two beers in hand, giving one to Logan with a soft kiss on his cheek. They got married two years ago, and it couldn’t be any clearer that they’re head over heels for each other. So in love, in fact, that I’m going to have to keep an eye on them and make sure they don’t start canoodling in front of my kiddo.
Freaking lovebirds.
Speaking of my best guy, Caleb is tuckered out after running laps around Saint, who easily lifts him into his arms. Caleb immediately lays his head on Saint’s broad shoulder as Saint follows Alex out onto the deck, laughing from somewhere deep in his chest.
I peer after Saint, sneaking a peek at his ass in those jeans I like so much.
God, my man is so effortlessly sexy. I’d say it was unfair if I didn’t get to reap all the benefits. He catches me staring and shoots me a wink that has me blushing up to my hairline.
Lord. Maybe we’re the lovebirds here.
After Walker arrives, he drops off a small box on the gift table.
I swear to God, if those are car keys, I’m gonna punch him. The man is determined to get me a new model every year, always claiming that the safety improves with each update. As soon as I get used to a new car, I have to learn how to drive a whole new model. And yes, I know—this isthefirst-world problem of all first-world problems.
Before I can sneak a peek inside the box, Aspen catches my hand.
“All right, everyone’s here,” she says. “This is going to be so fun.”
My heart swells with gratitude. “Thank you so much for setting all this up, Aspen.”
“It’s my pleasure.”
Just then, I feel a tug on my skirt.
“Mama?”
I look down to see Caleb gazing up at me with his big brown eyes.
He’s still a shy talker, only using around five or six words regularly, but I’d recognize that expression anywhere. My little guy is bored now that Saint is busy chatting with his friends. Caleb needs a playmate.
“I’ve got this.” Aspen kneels down to Caleb’s level. “Wanna show me your cool art projects over there?”
Caleb pulls Aspen’s hand, dragging her over to his craft corner, where all his creations have been meticulously taped to the wall by yours truly. I catch Alex staring after the two of them, a soft expression on his face.
Interesting. Maybe Camille and I won’t be the only moms in the group for much longer.
Later that night, when we’ve all gathered together on the deck, I raise my glass of nonalcoholic seltzer water to make a toast to my friends.
“Thank you all for coming tonight. It feels like just yesterday that you all attended my first baby shower. I’m so grateful to each of you for making room for me in your lives and truly accepting me as one of your own. I’m already looking forward to the next one.”
“The next one?” Logan gapes comically, dodging a playful smack from Summer.
Saint wraps his arm around my shoulders and takes over. “I don’t know about Kin, but I’m building a small army. Isn’t that right, Caleb?”
“Uh-huh.” Caleb cheers, inspiring hoots and hollers all around us.
“Whoa, there,” Alex says, cutting in with a wry grin. “Slow down, crazies. Holy baby factory.”
“To the baby factory,” Aspen says cheerfully, raising her glass high.
Cheers ricochet from person to person, and laughter all around. Even Caleb joins in, his infectious little giggle adding to the joy.
