Her Wilde Marines (Wilde, Nevada 4)

“We were good, weren’t we?” Adam laughed. “You are both right—we were good and Emma was great—but I think the main reason the show was a success was because of Grace Madelyn.”

“And we best not forget Gregory Grant, Adam.” Emma remembered how wonderful it had been to hold her two daughters for the first time and was certain the new mothers were feeling the same for their babies. “Gregory with his coal-black hair and Grace with her blonde hair.”

As if on cue, Maude, Greg, and Grant Strong walked into the diner.

Maude spotted them. “There you are, Emma.” The trio headed to their table.

Emma had known the Strongs her whole life. They were so happy together. “Congratulations. How does it feel to be grandparents to the cutest baby boy on the planet?”

“Feels amazing,” Greg answered.

Grant nodded. “Congratulations, fellas. Your niece is so precious.”

“Those two darling bundles stole the show, didn’t they, Emma?” Maude sat down across from them.

“They sure did.”

Maude’s charisma was endearing. “I don’t want to interrupt, but I wanted to ask you something. Is it true that you’re looking for a place to live?”

“Yes. I’m moving back here, and I want a place for my girls and me.”

Maude reached across the table and grabbed her hands. “That makes me so happy. I love my new hotel and hope you are enjoying your stay, but you need something more permanent. I have a rental house that I think would be perfect for you. Three bedrooms and two baths. It even has a garage. It’s on Windfall Street just a block away from the middle school.”

“Maude that would be fantastic. When can I see it?”

“Anytime, sweetie.”

“Would this evening be okay? I need some sleep.”

Maude nodded. “I think we all do. Let’s say about five.”

“Perfect.” She loved how everyone in this town took care of each other.

“I miss Norma so much. She was such a great friend to me. She would be thrilled that you are moving back.” Maude squeezed her hands. “Wilde is your home. You belong here.”

“Honey, let’s get our breakfast.” Greg winked. “I think these three might need more time alone.”

Emma shook her head. “We’re about to leave, Mr. Strong. This was only breakfast with friends.”

“Uh-huh.” The new grandpa smiled and sent her another wink.

Adam stood and held out his hand. “After we take you to look at the house, Em, we really need your help to find a present for the most perfect little niece in the world.”

Bane’s smile gave her a little tingle. “And don’t forget we need presents for little Gregory and his mom and Shelby, too.”

Maude grinned. “Sounds like you three will have to spend a lot of time together. Shopping can be quite a chore.”

“We are just two old Marines, Maude. We need Emma’s help.” Adam’s warm gaze unhinged her. “What do you say, Em? Will you help us out?”

How can I refuse them? “Okay. Shopping after I look at Maude’s rental house. As friends.”

“Uh-huh,” Bane and Adam said in unison, but she knew by the looks on their faces they were hoping for more.

The Strongs went to another booth to order their breakfast.

Feeling the fatigue of staying up all night, Emma yawned. “I’m sorry.”

“Nothing to be sorry about, Em. Time to get you back to your room.” Clearly, Adam meant to walk her to the hotel.