“We’ll be fine.”
I will never complain about having to put in extra hours or being exhausted from running this place.
It’s something I never thought I’d have, and it’s all mine. I bought the building, free and clear, and I own everything inside it.
No one can take any of it away from me.
And the fact that I’m already doing so well just boosts my confidence and reminds me that despite having moments of doubt, this really is where I’m supposed to be.
Chapter Two
BROOKS
“Uncle Brooks!”
I can’t help my grin as my sweet seven-year-old niece, Birdie, comes running into my garage and throws her arms around my legs, hugging me.
“I have oil on my hands, peanut, or I’d pick you up.”
“I know.” She smiles up at me, and my heart lifts. It always does when she’s around. She’s the light of my life, and now she has a little brother I love just as much.
Additionally, Blake and Billie are both expecting.
It’s about time we had a bunch of babies to spoil around here.
“What are you up to? Are you by yourself? Did you steal your dad’s fire truck again?”
Birdie giggles and shakes her head. “I’m not old enough to drive.”
“What? You’re seventeen, right?”
“I’m seven.” She rolls her eyes. “Dad! Uncle Brooks is trying to be funny again.”
“Ouch.” I chuckle and wash my hands real quick so I can pick my girl up and kiss her soft cheek. “It’s good I have you to be honest, Birdie girl.”
“You’re not too busy today,” Bridger observes as he walks in, wearing a baby strapped to his chest. My nephew is fast asleep, sucking his little blue binkie.
“It’s just been steady.” I shrug. “Not too crazy. What are you all doing? Where’s your wife?”
Bridger married Dani almost two years ago. We’ve all known her pretty much all our lives, and I’ve never seen my brother happier.
“She’s having lunch with the girls.” He presses a kiss on the baby’s head. “The kids and I took a walk, and we decided to come see you.”
“I missed you.” Birdie bats her pretty dark eyelashes at me.
“You did?”
She nods and kisses my cheek.
“I just saw you at Sunday dinner last week.”
“That wasdays ago.”
“You’re right. I always miss you, too.” I blow a raspberry on her cheek, making her giggle. “I love it when you come see me.”
“Did you know there’s a restaurant here that’s safe for my tummy?”
My eyes move to Bridger, and he watches me with sober eyes.
