Page 63 of Fighting for Family

“Claire sends her love and says to call if you need anything. Samantha’s giving her a mini spa day. We have an appointment in the morning, but we’ll return right afterward,” he assured her.

“Hopefully, he or she will arrive by then, and you’ll be visiting your godchild,” Gabby said warmly. “Knight and I talked about it, and we want you and Claire to act as godparents to this child.”

Patch smiled and hugged her. “We’d be honored. We’ll stop by and check on you tomorrow.”

“You’re the best,” she said, holding her stomach.

“Hang in there, beautiful,” Patch smiled.

“I will, but what about him?” she whispered.

“We can always ask Victoria to drop in with her special coffee,” Patch said, winking at her.

Gabby giggled. “He’s a bit afraid of her at the moment. I don’t know if he’d accept anything from her.”

“Don’t act all coy with me. You Serenity women come up with all different ways to get us to do what you want,” he teased.

“We gotta keep you on your toes,” she said, smiling.

Patch made his goodbyes and walked outside the door with Knight.

“Do you want me to stay with you?” he asked.

“Nah. I gotta take care of Gabby. We came home for this,” he said. “I’m glad we got here when we did.”

“You and me both,” Patch said seriously. “I can be here in ten minutes if you need me. Gabby’s a strong woman. She’ll do great. You got this, buddy.”

Knight nodded nervously. “I do. I can do this.”

Patch slapped him on the back and squeezed his shoulder. “I’m here for you.”

“Thanks,” he said, watching his best friend walk down the hall. He stopped long enough to greet Doc and shake his hand. Doc and Leo were best friends. It must hurt to know he wasn’t coming back.

He returned to Gabby’s room, determined to act strong. Everyone in Serenity hurt over Leo’s death, and it didn’t seem right to feel joyful about the upcoming baby. Except when he locked gazes with Gabby, the thrill of bringing another piece of them into the world seemed right.

* * *

The following morning, Samantha helped Claire into a pair of short, thick heels to support her. Her long, wavy hair lay in perfect curls, and she wore a small pillbox hat with a short veil. The white dress flattered her heavily pregnant frame.

“When did Patch plan all this?” Claire asked as Samantha sprayed down an errant curl.

“He called me from Germany. I’m happy to help. He didn’t want to bother the others. Kassie and Chase have watched over Catherine, and I heard they’re planning his funeral this morning. He explained why he wanted to do this. There’s nothing wrong with bringing joy into the family. They’ll be happy for you, and we’ll celebrate again next year. Enjoy today. I have set up a wedding supper with Ty. Bryanna included a small cake, and she promised not to say anything.”

“You didn’t have to do this,” Claire said with tears in her eyes.

“Don’t cry. You’ll ruin your makeup, and you’re stunning. You’ll knock Patch’s socks off.”

“Thank you.”

“Come out when you’re ready. I called the hospital, and Gabby’s still having contractions, but not dilated far enough yet. I’ll keep you posted if something happens. I’m headed to Catherine’s.”

“It seems almost tacky to get married today knowing she’s burying the love of her life,” Claire said guiltily.

“Nope,” Samantha said, shaking her head. “She’d tell you to seize the moment. Leo would demand it. Your family comes first.”

Claire smoothed her baby bump and glowed. “My family,” she whispered. “Patch and I will have a family.”

“Yes. Now go get married,” Samantha said, laughing. She gathered her things and closed the door, leaving Claire alone.