Page 88 of Off Limits Daddy

“Thank you so much for this,” I said to her.

“Of course, Duncan. We’re all so happy for you.”

“Cheers to that,” Brett said. He popped the cork of champagne and poured flutes for the adults. “I’ve got cider for you, Veronica.”

“Thank you.”

Miranda joined us. “They’re busy, although we’ll need to check on them every now and then.”

“We’re getting ready to toast,” Brett said, handing her a glass.

Once we all had drinks, Brett held up his glass. “To my best friend, my brother, and his lovely, kick-ass wife. I know you’ve wanted this for so long. I couldn’t be happier for you.”

Emotions welled, and I couldn’t help but hug him. “Thanks, man.”

We clinked our glasses and drank. Afterward, we told them about how it went in court and moved on to regular family plans. Day camp in summer. Events and activities. Vacations.

A little bit later, after checking on the kids, who’d made a mess but were otherwise fine, I leaned against the doorframe, watching everyone I loved celebrate our family. I studied Veronica the most because, well, how could I not? She was radiant. Happy. She was still strong and independent. She still kept me on my toes. But now, she loved me and never hesitated to let me know. It struck me then how naturally she'd slid into this role of wife and mother. She hadn’t wanted to, and yet, she reshaped her life for me and Aiden. Love did that. I’d be forever grateful that she did.

“Daddy?” Aiden appeared at my side. “Do we get cake like at birthday parties?”

“Absolutely.”

“Wait until you see.” Veronica joined us. We went to the kitchen, and she pulled out the cake that had Aiden’s new full name on it.

“That’s me,” Aiden said. “I have the same name as you.”

“That’s right, buddy,” I said, my voice choking up.

“You're too big to cry,” Georgie said from the kitchen table where she and the other kids were making crafts.

“Who says?” I challenged.

She shrugged. “Grownups don’t cry.”

I laughed. “I have so many stories I could tell you about your mom.”

“Unkadunk.” Lindsay gave me a feigned glare.

“Your grandpa too,” I added with a glance to Brett.

Later that night, after everyone had gone home and Aiden was asleep, I pulled Veronica close as we stood on the second-floor terrace, under the summer stars.

"I'm a lucky man," I murmured against her hair.

She turned to face me. "We're lucky. You and me.”

I laughed. “Maybe you more than me.”

She arched a brow.

“I’m a catch,” I said.

“That you are.” She looped her arms around my shoulders. Her belly settled against me, and I marveled at the life we created that was growing there.

I kissed her. “Maybe I’m luckier. You’re a dream come true.”

“Maybe we’re equally lucky.”

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