Page 45 of A Play for Love

“Ilove you, sweetheart.” I kissed Ella’s cheek and hugged her tight.”

“I love you too, Dad. Have a safe flight. If you get a chance, go visit Mrs. Schwartz.”

“I’ll try, but I don’t think I’ll have time.” Walking over to where Sofia stood holding our son, I took him from her and hugged him tight. “Be a good boy for your mom. I love you to the moon and back.” I set him in his activity chair and gripped Sofia’s hips.

“I’ve saved the best for last.” I softly brushed my lips against hers.

“I’m going to miss you.” Her lips pouted as she wrapped her arms around my neck.

“I’ll miss you more, baby.” I kissed her again and then pulled her into me.

“You better text me when you land,” she said.

“I will.” I grabbed my bag and walked out the door.

Climbing into Shaun’s limo, I shut the door and looked at him.

“You ready?” He grinned.

“I’m ready. Are you sure you feel comfortable leaving Jenni?” I asked.

“Not at all.” He sighed. “She’s staying the night at Simon’s. I didn’t want her home alone at night.”

“That’s a great idea. Those babies will be here before you know it.”

“I know. I’m scared, Nathan. Don’t tell my brothers I said that either.”

“It’s okay, cousin.” I patted his shoulder. “It’s natural. Do you remember how scared I was when Ella came to live with me? And when Nicholas was born?”

“Yeah, I remember.” He smirked.

“Your dad instincts will kick in, and you’ll be fine. Wait. Let’s hope you didn’t inherit Uncle Henry’s instincts.” I smiled.

“I can promise you I didn’t.”

“You haven’t mentioned any names yet,” I said.

“That’s because Jenni and I officially decided last night.”

“And?”

“You promise you won’t tell anyone?” His brow arched. “Because Jenni wants to announce the names this weekend at our get-together.”

“My lips are sealed.”

“Stella and Sawyer.” He grinned.

“Stella and Sawyer Kind. I love it.”

* * *

It was great to lecture the young minds of future doctors. They were a great group who took notes and had plenty of questions. After catching up with Charlie, I pulled my phone from my pocket and saw I had a text message from Shaun.

“On my way to you. Be there in ten.”

“I’ll be waiting.”

I felt bad that I didn’t have time to visit Mrs. Schwartz. I knew she would have been happy to see me and to talk about Ella. I’d have to arrange a trip for us to come and visit. But for now, meeting and talking to Rose was more important.

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