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Jenny grinned. “I bet he’s loving that. Torn away from spreadsheets to tie bows and make lunches?”

“I think he’ll rise to the occasion.”

“Mike’s a natural dad. You hit the jackpot there.”

“I did, but so have you. I’ve seen Rick with Junior. He’s going to be an amazing father.”

Jenny smiled. “He’s a little rough around the edges, but he’s got the biggest heart.”

“They all do,” said Ali.

“It’s funny, isn’t it. They’re selected for their warrior attributes, but they mature into family men.”

“I think service in the SEAL teams attracts a certain type of man,” added Ali.

“Men who make great husbands and fathers. If you can deal with them being away and in danger.”

“That’s why we have our sisterhood.” Ali smiled.

Jenny’s phone buzzed, and she checked it. “Sorry, I’m waiting on results from my doctor.”

“Initial screening?”

Jenny nodded as she read the message. A moment later, she exhaled and smiled.

“Good news?”

“We got the all clear. Our baby is healthy and on track.”

Ali leaned across and hugged her friend. “That’s fantastic news. Does that mean you guys know the sex, or are you going old school?”

Jenny smiled. “I’ve got a special reveal planned.”

“Oooh, do you need any help?”

“I appreciate the offer, but I’ve got it covered. Oh, that reminds me, what are you bringing to the afternoon tea at the range tomorrow? I was thinking about baking a New York cheesecake.”

“I’m doing themed cupcakes. Maria mentioned something about donuts and pink lemonade. Whatever we bring, I know the boys will be happy. It was a lovely idea of TJ’s. He’s certainly making the most of the team being at home.”

“I’m just glad he made it in the afternoon and not the morning,” said Jenny with a sigh.

“Ah, you poor thing. I was so sick with Junior.”

“I haven’t vomited yet, just a little nausea and zero appetite.”

Ali smiled. “You know what they say about morning sickness?”

“Yeah, yeah,” laughed Jenny. “You’ll have to wait for the reveal like everyone else.”

“Fine, I’ll pick you up tomorrow at two.”

“Thanks, Ali, I’ll be ready.”

“OK, team, this is the drill,” said TJ. “We’re going to start fifty yards behind the firing point, face down. Our rifles will be on the mound. On go, we’ll jump up, sprint to the line, fire ten rounds at five hundred yards from prone, and see who scores the highest.”

The team had started the day early at Orange Grove Rifle Range, a civilian club where TJ was a member. With mechanical targets out to a thousand yards, it was an excellent location for the team to hone their long-range shooting. They’d worked all morning individually, getting their eye in. Then, after a short stop for lunch, TJ issued his first challenge.

“We keen to put some skin in the game?” asked Rick.