“Thank you. That’s so special,” Malone said, not even trying to hide the tears rolling down her cheeks.
“My pleasure.” Sierra gave Malone’s hand a squeeze. “And we chose Asher because we like it and, hey, why not start with an A? Just in case.”
Drake groaned along with his brothers.
“Oh, sweetheart.” Her mother kissed Sierra’s cheek. “That’s a lovely name. Sounds like a judge or lawyer.”
“Now, Mom,” Sierra warned. “It’s a little too soon to decide on his career.”
“Besides,” Reed said. “No son of mine is going to be a lawyer.”
“Hey, now.” Malone socked Reed in the arm. “What’s wrong with lawyers?”
“What’s not?” Drake asked.
The others exploded in laughter, and Malone grinned.
Karlie looked confused. “Can I see the baby?”
Brendan lifted her up and took her to the head of the bed. Jenna joined them, and Brendan put his arm around his wife, the warmth of contentment on her face.
Karlie patted Asher’s head. “I like Asher.” She swiveled to look at her mother. “Can we get a baby just like him?”
Jenna’s peace evaporated, and she gaped at her daughter.
Brendan didn’t freak out at all. “We’ll for sure get a baby someday, but right now, I don’t want to share my attention with anyone but you and your mom.”
“Aw,” Peggy said. “That’s my son.”
Drake had to agree that Brendan had a stellar way of answering Karlie’s question.
Karlie smiled at Brendan. “I don’t want to share you either. You’re the bestest.”
Sierra yawned.
“Okay, everyone,” Peggy announced. “Sierra and Asher need their rest. Let’s head back to the house for s’mores.”
“S’mores, yay!” Karlie clapped her hands.
Everyone took their turn to wish Sierra and Reed well then exited the room. His mother’s phone rang, and she took the call while the others strolled toward the exit.
They were nearly at the elevators when she caught up to them. “Your dad and I’ll meet you all back at the house. We have a stop to make.”
“Now?” Drake asked, baffled by his mother’s behavior. She would never leave the family on Sunday. Especially on such a big day.
“It’s a surprise.” She gave him a secretive grin. “One I know you’ll enjoy.”
26
Natalie clicked on her seatbelt in Drake’s truck. “Any idea where your parents went?”
He shook his head. “I’m totally baffled.”
“Maybe she wanted to get some sparkling cider or something to celebrate Asher’s birth.”
“Nah, she’s a planner. I’m sure she already has that in the fridge.”
“She’s an amazing woman and mother.”
