Her Wilde Marines (Wilde, Nevada 4)

“Charly’s baby boy is so handsome.” Emma smiled, making her appear even more beautiful. “Does Shelby know if her baby is a boy or girl?”

“She’s having a girl, though she and her guys haven’t told anyone what the baby’s name is going to be.” He loved Emma’s flowing red hair and full lips. Her green orbs enthralled him. Her porcelain, delicate skin enticed him. But it was more than just her body that drew him in. She was direct, thoughtful, kind, open, and so very sweet. All the traits his deepest self responded to.

Emma was the ideal woman, perfect in every way.

Mac looked at the time on her cell. “I lost Charly’s pool and it’s after four, so I didn’t win Shelby’s either. I wonder who did win. That would be a cute interview for the morning show.”

“Will you have to bump these two heroes?” Emma asked. She and Mac had clearly hit it off, talking about all kinds of things throughout the night.

“I know they will not leave until Shelby delivers her baby, that’s for sure.” Mac glanced down at the time again. “I’m going to have to head to the studio pretty quick. God, I hate to leave. I want to stay for Wilde’s newest citizen’s arrival, too.”

“I’ve got an idea, Mac,” Emma said. “Why not shoot your show right here in the waiting room? You could still interview Bane and Adam and get the other big story in town front and center. Charly and Shelby’s babies.”

Mac smiled. “I love that idea. Done. I’m going to call the guys and get a crew over here ASAP. You’re a natural, Em. I just knew you would be. If you want the job, it’s yours. Assistant Program Director. We can work out all the terms later.”

Emma took her hand. “Yes. I want the job. Thank you, Mac. Thank you so much.”

“Let me make the call. I want you by my side during the show, okay?”

“Absolutely. I’m really excited about this opportunity.” Emma’s enthusiasm was endearing. “I won’t let you down.”

“I know you won’t. We’re going to make quite the team, Em. If we’re lucky, Shelby will deliver the baby during the show.” Mac laughed and walked to a quiet corner to make her call.

“I know you two are very excited about being uncles.” Emma leaned forward. “That sweet, little baby will never want for anything as long as you two are around. Your family sure does pull together, don’t they?”

Bane nodded, though he wondered why Carolyn had yet to show up. Of his two sisters, he never did understand her. Carolyn had been troubled her entire life. One day, he prayed she would find peace and happiness.

Who am I to complain about siblings? He looked at Emma, whose two sisters had been homicidal crazy women. They were dead, as was her mother. Emma had been through hell and back.

“Do you have boys or girls, Em?” Adam asked.

Bane recalled she’d mentioned having children earlier.

“Two girls.” Her entire face beamed with pride. “Twelve and thirteen. Autumn and Andrea.”

He was glad she wasn’t completely alone in the world. “Do you have pictures of them?”

“On my phone.” She brought out her cell and showed him and Adam a picture of the two girls.

Adam took the phone from her. “They are so cute, Em.” His brother handed him the cell. “Don’t you agree, Bane?”

“I sure do.” He turned to Emma. “They look a lot like you. They both have your eyes and your gorgeous red hair.”

“I know, but they are much prettier than me. They take after my sisters that way.” Her words didn’t sit well with him. Didn’t she know she was gorgeous? “Thankfully, they don’t look a thing like their father.”

When Emma mentioned her ex, Bane saw a slight frown appear on her face that didn’t sit well with him. It was clear that she didn’t want to talk about the man, which suited him just fine. “After Shelby has the baby and we finish with the television show, let’s go to breakfast, Em.”

“We’re all going to be starving by then.” Adam obviously was into Emma as much as he was. A first date was exactly what they needed. And a second. And a third.

“Guys, I’m just getting settled. I’ve only been in town for a short time. I think I’ll head back to the hotel for some much-needed sleep. You two should do the same. You have to be exhausted after your party last night and this long wait on your sister to deliver the baby.”

“Shelby has always made us wait, but she’s worth it.” Adam took Emma’s hand. “I know you’re tired but you have to eat, Em. A full tummy will help you sleep better.”

“I’ve always heard if you eat before you sleep you can have nightmares.” She grinned.

Bane joined in on the teasing. “So let’s put it to the test. You can report back to us for dinner tonight if our breakfast upsets your dreams.”

“That’s two meals you’re trying to lock me down for.” Smiling, she shook her head. “Quite the two operators, aren’t you?”