Page 48 of Sapphire Queen
Chapter 32
Cheers filled the room as Sarifena and Heath signed the papers, making Alex theirs. It’d been a whirlwind of emotions that led them to this moment, but seeing the smiles on their faces, Heath knew it was the right path.
“How does it feel to be a dad?” Rory asked, bumping against Heath’s shoulder.
“Damn good.” Heath glanced over her shoulder, his eyes connecting with his wife.
“You’re a lucky man. She really loves you.” Anthony followed his gaze to Sarifena.
“I know.” He grinned, “How about you. Are you guys ready for this little bundle of joy to get here?”
Rory started laughing as Anthony’s face paled. Christine couldn’t contain her giggles either, bending over to catch her breath.
“What’s so funny?” Emersyn joined the group, Drake’s arm wrapped around her waist.
“I don’t know. I asked Anthony if he was ready to be a dad, and he looks like he’s ready to pass out. These two won’t stop laughing.” Heath waved his hand between the two women still cackling.
“I’m sorry,” Rory gasped, trying to compose herself, “Anthony, tell them why we’re laughing.” She patted her husband’s arm, her eyes twinkling with giddiness.
“Anthony? You look like you're ready to puke, maybe you should sit down.” Sarifena stepped beside him, guiding him to the sofa. “Would you like some water?”
“No,” he waved his hand at her, “Sorry… it’s just – when you asked that question, it reminded me, I do not understand what I am doing. Heath, Sarifena, we’re expecting triplets.”
“TRIPLETS!” Onika blurted out, “Holy SHIT… I’d puke too.”
“Onika!” Emersyn swatted at her sister, “Be nice. Anthony, that’s amazing news.”
“We found out yesterday when I went in for an ultrasound. I was having some pain, and we wanted to check. Turns out, there’s three in there,” she patted her small rounding tummy, “fighting for space.”
“Congratulations, Anthony. You’ll be a great dad. Plus, you have Christine and Rory.”
Heath still couldn’t wrap his head around how having two spouses, but seeing them together and the love they shared proved anything was possible.
“Thanks. So, Amalee, you’re the only one single now,” Rory cocked an eyebrow at her cousin, “Any men in your life?”
“Um…” Amalee stuttered, her body becoming rigid. Her eyes darted around the room, looking to see who’d overheard Rory’s question. “Nope. My social life is not a new topic for discussion. We have other things to worry about, like bringing home Dimitra.”
“Care to tell us what the diary said?” Onika snapped.
“I chickened out. I haven’t read it yet.”
“Are you serious? Amalee, give me the damn book if you’re scared. We need to know what it says.” Sarifena spat.
“No… I’ll read it when I get home. I have it stored somewhere safe. Don’t worry.”
“Amalee, it’s important. It may have something inside that will help us find Dimitra.” Emersyn spoke softly.
“Ladies,” the deep voice of Constable Graham caused everyone to turn, “Her Majesty has been busy dealing with the aftermath of the explosion. It destroyed several homes, including a factory. I advised her to put the journal under lock and key and deal with that first. I assure you,” His eyes found their way to Amalee, holding her in place, “she knows what is at stake.”
“You're right, Constable. I’m sorry, Amalee. I guess I am just tense with everything going on.” Onika apologized, her fists clenched by her side. Luca slipped her fingers into his, rubbing her knuckles to calm her.
“It’s fine. I should probably head home. I can read the journal now and let you know what I find.”
“Thank you all for coming. We are happy to celebrate something good. Let’s touch base after Amalee’s read it.”
Sarifena and Heath said their goodbyes to everyone. Once they were alone in the living room with Alex, Sarifena leaned into Heath’s side.
“I’m worried about Onika.”
“What do you mean?” Heath asked her.
“She just seems so angry. I could feel her magic brewing when she snapped at Amalee. I don’t know. Maybe I’m just uber-sensitive.”
“No. I noticed it. Maybe she’s just overwhelmed. I’ll call and speak with Luca tomorrow – and share our concerns. But for now,” he kissed her lips, “Let’s put our son to bed so I can make love to my wife.”
Sarifena watched as Heath lifted the toddler into his arms and tickled his belly. Alex’s laughter was like a ray of sunlight, filling the gloomy space in her heart. Sarifena knew no matter what lay ahead of them, Heath would always shelter her and Alex. His love filled her, making her heart and soul happy.
