I couldn’t help the sniffles that happened. My tears were like a fast-flowing river down my face. Hunter looked up with a smile and extended his hand. “Come see the sunrise with us, Mommy.”
I padded outside, and he opened the blanket. I took Austin, then curled up on Hunter’s lap. He enveloped us in the warmth of the material and his arms. He kissed my head.
“Heard me, did you?”
“Yes.”
“I was just telling our son a few things. He needs to know how awesome you are. He’s going to have a great life.”
“His daddy is amazing too. He’s strong and caring.” I cupped Hunter’s cheek. “You took such good care of me during my pregnancy. You were a rock.”
He turned his head to kiss my palm. “You were easy to take care of. As long as I had bacon on hand, you were good.”
We both laughed. My craving for bacon had been endless. And peanut butter sandwiches. Hunter made sure both were well stocked at all times.
“Austin is lucky to have you,” I whispered.
Hunter shook his head. “I’m the lucky one. I get both of you.”
I snuggled closer. “Always.”
“I love you,” he breathed against my head.
“I love you.”
The sun rose, its rays filling the deck with light. Hunter’s embrace tightened, and I sighed in contentment. His love was an all-encompassing entity, wrapping itself around me in every aspect of our life. It now grew and encircled our son. Bonded us as a family.
Hunter had found his place to belong. It was with me. My family had adopted him, giving him a foundation. And now, we had our own. Together we were strong.
I lifted my face to the sun.
What an age to be alive.
* * *