Page 82 of The Champion
Victor gaped. “They’re building already?”
My shoulders rose a little as I inhaled and smiled. “That’s one thing you need to learn about my family. They are people of action. My parents love to organize things, and with things running pretty smoothly in the Northlands, this project has been given a lot of time and attention. I told Indiana he owed you a favor and maybe that’s why he took it upon himself to finance the first part of the settlement. But I must warn you that he expects to be involved in decisions. His sister Raven and his brother Jones will be coming with us as well. Raven and Leo, her husband, will be in charge of building the police force, and Jones will be helping to get supplies and building materials to Wisdomia. The Boulder family are setting up a virtual bank as well.”
Victor ran a hand through his hair.
“I know it seems like we’ve done a lot without you, but I’ve kept to the plans we made together and there’s still a million decisions that need to be made.”
“Oui, I know. I’m just trying to catch up.”
Putting my bun away, I reached out my hand to him. “If you’re up for it, we could fly out tomorrow and inspect the progress of the building site. Official move-in date is set for late March.”
“That’s in three months.”
“Mm-hmm. Isn’t that wonderful?”
Victor’s Adam’s apple moved in his throat. “I had no idea it would all happen this fast.”
“Shelly is eager to talk to you about an idea she has.”
Breaking into laughter, he put the bowl with pudding away and reached for something to drink. “I’m sure you mean a bunch of ideas. That woman has so many that it’s hard to keep up.”
“It’s related to your research. Unlike the rest of her family, Shelly wants nothing to do with the logistics and politics. She’s working with the engineers and architects to ensure that Wisdomia is self-sufficient in every way.”
Victor looked like he was floating on a cloud. “I love that woman.”
With my brow raised, I cleared my throat. “Excuse me.”
“Not in a sexual way. I just love how her mind works and I’m excited to be creating something this amazing with all of you.”
“Do you think the French will let your people move to Wisdomia?” I asked him.
“Oui. They were forced to sign an agreement that guarantees free movement for all French people.””
“How many do you think will come?”
“I can’t tell, but right now things are chaotic in France and people are angry with our government. I’m guessing at least a hundred thousand will join us.”
“That’s great!” Leaning back against my bedframe, I sunk into my pillows. “Wisdomia will be the perfect place, full of hope and opportunity.”
Moving the tray to the side table, Victor came to spoon me. “It’s the ultimate adventure and I can’t believe it’s really happening.”
Pulling his hand to my stomach, I smiled and closed my eyes. “Oh, it’s happening.”
Circling his fingers round my belly button, Victor whispered. “Do you know if it’s a boy or a girl?”
“Yes, I know.”
With his cheek leaning on my shoulder, he guessed. “It’s a boy, isn’t it?”
“No, it’s a girl.”
“We’re having a little girl?” The joy in his tone made me turn my face to look into his eyes with a tired but happy smile. “Yes, our first child will be a girl.”
Victor’s eyes widened. “First? How many are we having?”
I chuckled. “I don’t know. That’s a decision we’re definitely making together. But right now, I need to sleep. You’ve worn me out.”
Closing my eyes, I felt him kiss my shoulder and nape before he settled in behind me with his arms securely wrapped around me.
