EPILOGUE RYAN

EPILOGUE RYAN

After a tiring day at work, things reached their peak when the bank’s security system was triggered. It was a false alarm, but we still had to exercise heightened caution. Now, I’m eager to get home and relax.

As I pull into the driveway, a huge smile spreads across my face. There’s a tricycle on the sidewalk and toys all over the front porch. When I first bought this place, I dreamed of it being filled with the laughter and energy of kids.

Entering through the front door, I notice the television playing a cartoon. It feels like ages since we last watched an adult show or a complete football game.

Laughter draws me to the kitchen, where two little dark-haired heads are engrossed in a project on the island while Parker tends to the stove. I pause for a moment, simply observing my family. I’m so lucky.

My children are three and five. The oldest is Ryker, and he’s the spitting image of me. We call him RJ, and he’s a handful and keeps us on our toes. Emily is a girly girl who loves all things pink and sparkly. She follows her brother everywhere and doesn’t like to be left behind. I adore them both.

“Daddy’s home,” Emily screams. The kids launch off their chairs and come running toward me. RJ wraps his arms around my leg, and Emily jumps up and down, wanting to be picked up. I hoist her into my arms.

Parker comes over and kisses me. “Supper will be ready shortly,” she says, returning to the food. It smells like a roast, one of my favorite meals.

“What are you two up to?” I ask Emily.

“Grandma bought us coloring books. Mine has princesses.”

She wriggles to be let down. I set her on the floor, and RJ grabs my hand. “Dad, can I play T-ball? The other boys are playing. Please?”

I look over at Parker. She gives me a little nod, letting me know she’s already taken care of it.

“Of course. It sounds like fun.”

He gives a first pump. “Yes!”

“You two need to wash up, then we’ll eat,” Parker tells the kids as she dishes the food.

They run out of the room, and I walk up behind my wife and wrap my arms around her. Nuzzle her neck and breathe in her lavender scent.

“After the kids go to sleep, I want you naked in our bed.”

She spins around and kisses me.

“It’s a date.”

She rubs up against me, making me groan. I want to do more, but the sound of running feet signals my kids’ return. Elle gives me another kiss and a playful smile flashes.

Understanding that the intimate moment has passed, I start helping by getting the remaining food onto the table and pouring milk into glasses.

The kids settle into their seats and share stories about their day while Parker attentively listens. She doubted being a mom, but I never did; she’s a natural.

I count my blessings daily for having her in my life, and I never take a moment for granted. I look forward to growing old with her and the kids. I love them.