Tobias (Reynolds Ranch 2)

“You don’t have to worry about him. He’s an asshole to most people, but he’s all bark.”

“Thank you for everything, Louisa.” I give her a large, tight hug.

“I’m so glad you’re here. Take it easy. Another larger storm will be hitting tomorrow night.” Shit, I’m not looking forward to that.

“Is there anything else I need to know?”

“All of the emergency flashlights and blankets are in the front hall closet. Let me show you because I don’t want anything to happen to you.” She leads me out of the stunning kitchen and into the foyer again. There’s a white door under the steps that I hadn’t noticed. When she opens it, it’s a treasure trove of lights and blankets. “Everything you’ll need for the time being will be here. Once the power goes out, someone will rush down here to make sure you’re okay.”

“Thank you again.”

“Don’t thank me yet—you haven’t met Tobias. There isn’t a cook he hasn’t run off.”

“Well, I ain’t got anywhere to go, so he’s just going to have to put up with me.”

“By the way, your bedroom is up the stairs and it’s the door to the left of the landing. The housekeeper’s room is usually down here, but he’s having it remodeled.”

“Great.” We hug again and then she slips on her shoes and leaves.

Chapter Three

Tobias

“Presents! Uncle Tobias, wake up! It’s time for presents!” Junior says, standing next to my bed with his face inches from mine. I jolt backwards, hitting my head on the headboard.

“Santa came!” Brandon’s jumping on my bed near my face. Holy shit. What a wake-up call. My eyes and ears are open wide as hell as I stare blurry eyed at the happy, excited kiddos. I remember that enthusiastic feeling every Christmas morning.

“Boys! Leave your uncle alone,” Landon says from the doorway with a smirk on his face like a prick. He probably sent their asses in here. Now he’s trying to act like the hero.

“We can’t open presents until he comes down,” Junior complains, but he follows his father’s gentle command, walking calmly to Landon’s side.

“What about you, boy? I haven’t had my coffee. It’s been a long time since I tackled anyone,” I growl, narrowing my eyes at the little guy.

“Oh no. Daddy, help,” Brandon cries out, trying to crawl off the large bed but I’m too quick. I take him down on the mattress and tickle him. He squeals and giggles until he calls out. “I sender. I sender.”

Landon shakes his head. “Teach you to wake a grizzly bear. He’s in hibernation, boys.” Brandon runs to his side and gets a nice pat on the head from his dad.

“Come on, Uncle Bear,” Landon Jr. adds before following his daddy out.

“I’m coming. I’m just saying there better be a big cup of coffee waiting for me.” Landon nods and leads the boys down the hall.

I look toward the windows and the sun’s already out, which is late for me, but I’d been up for an hour waiting for them to rush in when I finally let sleep get to me. The boys usually get their parents first and then me. Grandma was the one to send them to wake me last year. Damn, I miss my mom.

Hopping off the bed, I hit the little boys’ room. I brush my teeth and wash my face, slip on a tee shirt that matches all the matching pajamas Lara got us. My sister really loves the whole mom life. I’m actually jealous of my brother-in-law, having found someone perfect even if she’s my little bratty sister. Maybe one day I’ll be fortunate enough to find a good woman to marry and have a family with, but I won’t hold my breath waiting on that dream.

I step into the living room and greet my sister. “Good morning, Lara. Merry Christmas, little sister.” I pull her into my arms. She’s already in tears. Mom would have loved this set up. Their home is gorgeous and massive, but it’s warm and inviting.

“Merry Christmas, big brother. I’m so glad you’re here with us.” Her tree could rival any holiday display in the fanciest magazine or online spread.

“They’re here with us too. They’re proud and love their babies. So let’s remember that.” They missed out on so much with the kids, but we can’t go back in time and change things.

“Coffee and hot chocolate coming,” Landon shouts, bringing in a large tray. I take my cup off and take off one of the hot chocolates.

“Which one does this go to?” I say, looking at the cup with the name on it. “Hmm…”

“That’s mines,” Brandon cheers with his arms up waiting.

“Let Uncle Bear set it down for you,” Landon warns Brandon, which reminds me that he’s not old enough to do a lot on his own. I set it down and then his daddy says, “Two hands.” He’s almost three. Smart, but he’s a wild one like my sister. Landon Jr. acts more reserved even though he’s only five. I’m not sure if he got that from his father or my father and me. It’s a trait we share.