The Bull Rider's Brother (21 page)

“Twins.” Lizzie ruefully smiled and rubbed her expanding stomach.

Barb squealed and hugged her friend. “When did you find out?”

“Last week. Now James goes around telling everyone I’m carrying an oversized load.” Lizzie polished off the corndog. “He thinks he’s funny.”

“What’s that son of mine done now?” Angie sat down on the other side of Lizzie and handed her a fresh corndog.

“Thanks.” Lizzie took a bite of the second dog, grinning at Barb who shook a finger at her. “He’s been making size comments again.”

“You’d think he’d learn.” Angie stood and called to Jesse, “Make sure you get lots of pictures of JR.”

Jesse waved to the three women, holding the camera up for Angie to see.

“Both those boys are more vinegar than sugar. I don’t know how you put up with them.” Angie patted Lizzie’s belly, leaning down to ask the growing babies, “You two will be sugar and sweet for your momma, won’t you?”

“I hope they sleep.” Lizzie admitted.

“Where’s your Dad and Martha?” Angie scanned the crowd growing on the street waiting for the parade.

“On a cruise. Can you believe it?” Lizzie smiled thinking about her dad on board a cruise ship. “They wanted to get away in plenty of time so they’d be back for the big day.”

“Here they come.” Angie pointed toward the first set of riders positioned behind the color guard with the flag. Angie and Barb pulled Lizzie up so she could stand while the flag passed by.

Then Lizzie saw them. The men who made her life complete. JR looking all grownup on a real horse. He hadn’t wanted a pony. And James, the doting father, watching over his son with a mixture of pride and love. She caught his glance and saw him say something to JR.

Her son turned and searched the stands until he saw her. Then his face lit up. He waved with his free hand.

A year ago she’d been trying to keep a secret. Now, Lizzie realized it hadn’t been her secret to keep. The world had shifted, that was true. But she’d never been this happy. And her happiness revolved around the people in her life. A family she’d never imagined yet now, couldn’t let go.

One of the babies inside her kicked her. Lizzie reached down and rubbed the spot on her stomach.

Yes, sweetheart. You’re going to be part of this crazy life. Just wait. The future has lots of surprises for us all.

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