He pulled back slightly. “Because of Thatcher?”
She smiled softly. “No. He told me many times to find a good man, to move on.”
“He did?” Judd rested his forehead against hers and closed his eyes. “He told me to be here for you, to make sure that you were happy. That’s all I want, Wynn: to make you happy.” His eyes opened, and she was lost in the love that poured out of them—love forher.
“Is this even possible?” She leaned into him, hoping, praying.
“It already is. I love you, Wynn. Like my own flesh and blood. I won’t talk about getting married until you’re ready, but you should know I’m in this for our whole lives, no matter what form it takes.”
She laughed through her tears. “Do you have any idea what you’re in for?”
He hugged her to his chest. “I know exactly what I’m in for—and I can’t wait.”
Laney ran into them and threw her arms around her legs. “I’m starving.” She looked up, taking them both in.
Miles tugged on Judd’s arm. “Look at the frog I won. He really jumps.”
“That’s cool.” Judd released her, slid his hand down her arm, and took her hand. “Who wants pumpkin cocoa?”
“Me!” Laney danced around them in a circle.
Wynn watched it all in amazement. She’d seen Judd with the kids countless times, but it was only in this moment that she saw things clearly. “You really do love us—don’t you? Just the way we are.”
Judd leaned over Miles and kissed her temple. “I really do.”
She laid her head on his shoulder. “Then I guess you’re stuck with us.”
He turned to her, cupping her face in his hands. “Kids, I’m going to kiss your mother.”
Laney giggled behind her hands. Miles made gagging noises.
Wynn laughed. The joy inside of her was so big, she could barely bring her lips together to kiss Judd back. He was persistent, though, and after a moment, she was caught up in his embrace.
Someone whistled.
They broke apart, laughing.
“Now the whole town knows.” Judd took her hand again and walked toward the exit. Miles followed close and Laney reached for her free hand.
Wynn hip-bumped Judd. “Yeah—so the ladies better back off.”
He growled low and nuzzled her neck. “I like it when you’re feisty.”
Shivers raced across her skin. “You ain’t seen nothing yet,” she countered.
He laughed and started running, the whole family racing to keep up with him. Wynn understood the need to run. There was so much happiness inside of her, she couldn’t hold still.
Life was so good. She wanted to freeze this moment and hold on to it forever.
It couldn’t get any better than this.
Chapter 18
Wynn
Wynn rubbed her lips together. “Do you have your card?” she asked Miles.
“Yes!” he shot back.
