“Nothing I can tell you.”
“Ah, it’s like that, is it?”
“Yep. I’m plotting and scheming to get a night alone with my wife before my four nephews get home and steal half the grandparents from us.”
His phone lit up with a text from Morgan. No problem at all. Let’s talk tomorrow.
Mac gave that message a thumbs-up.
“What’re you planning for your big night out?” Julia asked as Pupwell came in and curled up at her feet. He rarely let his beloved Julia out of his sight.
“I’m not sure yet. Before I plan anything, I need to make sure I’ve got babysitters lined up.”
“I can do it if the grandparents can’t.”
“What? No way. I’d never ask that of you.”
“You didn’t. I offered. I could use the experience.”
He tipped his head as he studied her, noting a rosy glow to her fuller cheeks. “Are you trying to tell me something, by any chance?”
She smiled as she shrugged. “Perhaps.”
“Congratulations.”
“Thanks, but you have to keep it secret. We haven’t even told our parents yet.”
“My lips are sealed. I’m happy for you and Deacon.”
“We’re pretty happy for us, too. But we’re clueless when it comes to babies and kids, so if you want some help, we’re available.”
“While I’d hate to look a gift horse in the mouth…”
“I assume I’m the horse in this analogy of yours?”
“Stay with me… Our kids are a lot. Twin babies. A toddler. Two older kids who fight. This isn’t your average babysitting gig. You might want to start out with something a little less—how can I say this?—savage.”
Brows raised, she said, “Are you calling your children savages?”
“If the shoe fits…”
Julia laughed. “Wow, something tells me your romantic evening with Maddie might not go as you hope if she hears you describe her children that way.”
“I think she said it first, actually.”
Julia collapsed into laughter. She laughed so hard, she had tears in her eyes.
“In case you were wondering what’s ahead for you…”
“Gee, thanks for scaring the shit out of me.”
“Word of advice… Don’t have three babies in eighteen months when you already have two.”
“I believe there’s zero chance that’ll happen to me.”
“I would’ve said the same thing myself a few years ago, and look at me now.”
“So what’s your plan for romancing your wife?”