Guarding Forever
“So far so good. Are we going to try to learn the sex today?” Dr. Hart asked as she started the machine.
They both looked at each other and then nodded. “Yes, we want to know what we’re going to have.”
“So who are those guys out there with you? Security?”
“Yes. They’re that obvious?” Hope asked, hating that they looked like celebrities with their armed guards around them wherever they went.
“They stick out like a sore thumb, but they are cute.” Her brow arched, but it was Gage’s growl that made Hope laugh. She knew he was jealous because the guys had been too handsome for his liking, but he needed their help, so he didn’t send them back to Sean.
“I’m sure they’ll love hearing that they’re cute.” Hope patted the doctor’s sleeve.
“Well, I was going to say hot, but that’s not very professional.”
“I’d say,” Gage grumbled, crossing his arms.
“He’s just upset that we have nothing but men around the ranch. Isn’t that the way it works?”
“I believe that’s mostly it until you start having daughters.” She ran the handheld jelly-covered scanner over Hope’s belly. “And it looks like that won’t be starting soon. Congratulations. You’re having another boy.”
“Yes! Another Gage,” Hope cheered.
“Damn right. Another boy to take over the ranch when I get older to get some of these other guys away from my woman.” He kissed Hope with a teasing smile.
“Men. Ugh.”
“And you’re making more of us. I love you.” He kissed her again.
“You’re lucky I love you,” she grumbled playfully.
“That I am.” Gage wore a goofy grin as he stared at the picture the doctor had on the screen of their little peanut.
Dr. Hart wiped off Hope’s belly with a towel and then handed her another to make sure she didn’t have any of the gel lingering on her. “Everything looks great. There’s enough fluid around the baby and his size seems right on target. Schedule for next month, okay?”
“We will.”
“It’s been great to see you. Take care.” She hugged Hope and then left them to celebrate.
“How are you feeling?”
“Wonderful.” A frown formed on Hope’s face as she tried to judge Gage’s feelings on the baby. “You…are you disappointed it’s not a girl?”
He cupped her cheeks and stared into her eyes so she understood him completely. “God, no. I’m happy either way. Besides, more sons to protect any daughter we have.”
“Let’s go. Help me down so I can get out of here.”
“Yes, my wife.” He carried her off the bed and set her on her feet, then bent down to assist her with her shoes.
“Ooh, I love this view.” He was staring at her and could see under her dress as she adjusted it.
“Ass.”
“Yes, it’s a very nice ass.” He pinched her bottom and then stood. “Later I’m going to show you how much I enjoy that beautiful ass of yours, but we have to go to the store.”
They spent the next hour grocery shopping. As they finished up and loaded their vehicle, the skies opened up. Gage pulled the door open and hurried Hope inside before running around to the driver’s side.
Hope giggled. “It hasn’t rained in weeks. The first time we go out, it storms.”
“Let’s get you home so you don’t catch a cold. The temp has dropped at least ten degrees. Shit.” Gage shivered when the air conditioning turned on. He quickly flipped it off and then pulled out onto the road with their security following behind.
“It’s fine. I’m still very warm.” She snuggled into her seat to get a little more comfortable.
“Good. I can’t have you catching a cold, wife.”
They were about five minutes into their trip back home when Hope asked, “I wonder if the new housekeeper has arrived already.”
“Let’s call your mother.”
“Sounds good.” The rain continued to pelt down as they drove, slowing their drive back.
“Call Mom.” The Bluetooth dialed the number on the dash.
“Hey, Mom. Did Ms. Rhoades show up?”
“Yes. She’s in the kitchen, preparing for tonight’s meal. What time will you be back?”
“Great. We’ll be there soon. We’re already on the road, but the weather’s a little rough. How is it holding up over there?”
“It’s storming hard. Be careful. Johnny’s having fun with Grandma. Oh shit.”
“What? What’s wrong?” Gage sped up, wanting to get to the house faster.
“The power just went out.”
“Damn it. The emergency generators should kick on any second.”
“Oh good. They just did.” Grace released the breath she had held.
“Good. We’re about twenty minutes out. See you soon.”
He ended the call on the dash. “Ugh, this isn’t the best way to welcome a new employee.”
“Well, if she’s from around here, she’ll know it’s common. Don’t freak out, my love. We’ll be home soon.” He squeezed her hand that he held in his as they continued through the storm.
About five minutes from the house, they reached a winding turn, and with a loud pop, their tire blew out. Everything happened so fast as the vehicle skidded on the slick road, sending the vehicle careening into a guard rail and flipping over into a ditch.