CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE

"Have you made a decision?" asked Cam, staring at Johnny and Lucianna. They looked at one another, then at Erica, Jennifer, and Moose.

"I have lost too much time with my family already," said Johnny. "I won't miss another day. We accept your offer of my probationary status with the team. I understand that I will need to prove myself. Perhaps by that time, I can teach Rory how to do my signature move."

Rory just laughed, shaking his head.

"Bring it on, little man."

"I'm so glad you're staying," said Erica. "I'm going to need you here when Bear is born. He's going to be big."

"Yes, I think you chose an appropriate name." He looked at the others and then back at his sister. "It seems our ex-country didn't disappoint. They handled Mother in their way, but I'm glad they welcomed Jae-Hua. He will do great things."

"I hope so," said Erica. "I want to see him succeed."

"Me too, sister. Me too."

"I told you he had a good soul," smirked Matthew, hugging his wife. "He will be a great addition to our boys. So will she."

"She looks lost to me, Matthew," said Irene, frowning.

"I know of no one better than you that can help her to find her way, my love. You and Claudette will help her to discover who she really is. She is no ordinary housekeeping girl for some hotel. She is special."

"They're all special, aren't they?"

"They are my love, they are. Are you feeling well? Do you have your energy back?" he smiled.

"I believe I do," she grinned.

"I think we're due for a long dip in the pond. What do you say we gather a picnic, put a sign on the gate, and keep everyone out for a while. I need my wife."

"And I need my husband. I love you, my angel."

"And I love you, my witch."