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Nick closed his eyes for an instant, an i on his features When he opened his eyes and looked back at her in total concentration, she read coled with joy "I meant it"

Her breath hitched at his words of assurance "And what ifwhat if so happens after the first one and we need to adopt the rest? Would you be okay with that?"

"Absolutely, baby They'll be ours I'll be able to love them all, just the same"

She took a deep breath, a strong feeling of content "Thank you"

He pushed his fingers through her hair, gripping her scalp, a look of utter relief and happiness on his features Without s?"

"Yes," she whispered

"And the entire family can know? Tomorrow?"

She s on an answer "Yes"

He looked heavenward and then back down to her "Thank you" As he spoke the words, Courtney didn't know if he was thanking her or a higher being

But it really didn't matter

All that mattered was the love they felt for each other and the chance of the future they'd been given

Epilogue

Many, many lovely years later

Courtney rushed ahead of Nick while he strolledthe smooth, luscious backside that still held him enthralled after all these years

"Mr and Mrs Rule are in the backyard with the children," the housekeeper said as she led theie's house until they'd reached the rear doors that opened up to the huge, landscaped backyard

By the tih the double doors, Courtney had already raced ahead of hi on the second step of the swi the hem of her sundress that was now in the water Her arest, Erin After hugging her htly, she asked, "Where's Daddy?"

Courtney kissed Emily's forehead and pointed behind her as Nick caest child from his wife's arms