Page 122 of Devoted Enough

“A new swing set for the kids?”

I chuckled. “Hardly. I ordered it…for lack of a better word…a couple of months ago, not knowing we’d have another baby.”

Haven’s smile slowly faded. “Oh, no.”

“Oh, yes.”

“Nate, you didn’t.”

“I did.”

She slowly shook her head. “Why?”

“Because I thought it would be nicefor the entire family.”

Haven dropped onto the sofa. “I was a lot younger then and could handle it.”

“Please, you’re only thirty-four.”

She sighed. “And always tired. It’s one thing chasing around a baby, but a baby and a lab puppy.”

I rubbed at the back of my neck. “Yeah…about that. It’s not a lab.”

Haven slowly lifted her head and narrowed her eyes. “What do you mean, it’s not a lab? What kind of dog is it?”

Clearing my throat, I mumbled the answer.

She leaned forward. “I’m sorry, what was that?”

“Does it really matter what kind of puppy it is? Just think how happy the kids will be. And remember how wonderful itwas having Bear grow up with Emma. They love each other so much.”

“He loves Walker just as much.”

“True, but it seems like a full circle moment.”

Haven stood. “Nathan Shaw, what kind of puppy is it?”

“Have I told you how beautiful you look today? Pregnancy looks good on you, princess.”

“Nate.”

“It’s a Dalmatian.”

Haven’s eyes went wide as saucers. “I’m sorry. Did you say you bought a Dalmatian puppy?”

“Yes.”

A small scream startled us both. We turned to see Emma standing there. “You got a puppy? We’re going to have a puppy and a baby? I have to go tell everyone!”

Laughing, I said, “Looks like there are no returns now.”

Haven turned, folded her arms over her chest, and glared at me.

“Would you prefer diamonds or pearls?”

“I think a babymoon trip.”

“You’ve got it. Anywhere you want.”

Her brows lifted. “Anywhere?”

Taking her hand and kissing it, I whispered, “Anywhere.”

When her dimples came out, I knew all was forgiven.

THE END