Page 51 of Luke

“Catherine and I spoke already and we would be happy to support both you and Ashley changing your names,” he said firmly.

Luke’s eyes watered and he sniffed once before speaking. “I will talk to her,” was all he said in response.

“As touching as this sibling moment has been, I think that’s Mr. Smith pulling in behind us.”

Cade was the first to get out of the car. Ryker was right behind him. She and Luke stayed for a minute.

“Would you mind if I did that?” Luke asked.

“Of course not. I’m thrilled for you that they want you to be a part of their family publicly.” And she was. This was great news for him, and she didn’t care what her last name was when they did get married, only that it was his. “Talk it over with your sister.”

“I will.” He nodded. “Let’s go.”

She slid out onto the curb, Luke right behind her. He turned away from the group, composing himself before taking her hand and joining the other men and the new woman.

“Everyone, this is Dr. Jones. She’s an expert in addiction treatment and I wanted her to be here to answer any questions Mary may have.” Mr. Smith gestured to her.

“It’s Nikki. I’m happy to do anything I can to help,” Dr. Jones said.

“Thank you for this,” Paisley told her sincerely.

“I understand what it’s like to have a family member that keeps getting in their own way. I will do what I can to encourage her if that’s needed.”

“Cade.” Mr. Smith looked at him. “I’m happy to see that the apple fell far from the tree in your case. I hoped you wouldn’t continue his cycle of crazy.”

“Glad not to disappoint. Any news on the lawyer front?” Cade asked.

“Actually, that should be happening right now. I will update you once the hearing regarding the lawyer’s license to practice is over. And since he’s the only one outside of family able to visit the prison, that should put a stop to things.”

“Thank you,” Luke said. “For all of this. We appreciate it more than you know.”

“I’m glad to have any chance to get you boys back on the right track. I think you’re all going to do great things. Even Ryker here with his security venture.”

Ryker glared at him but didn’t say anything.

“Quiet as always,” Mr. Smith acknowledged. “I suppose it keeps you out of trouble to just keep your thoughts to yourself until it comes up.”

“I appreciate the help,” Ryker grunted out.

Paisley fought back a smile. It was hilarious to see Ryker uncomfortable. She’d seen him holding her baby looking every bit the family man, and she’d seen him upset and broody, which looked more like his natural nature. Now, awkward under the praise of this nice man, that was new.

“Are we ready to go?” Mr. Smith asked.

Everyone nodded and they made their way to the building.

“Matt is watching everything to make sure we don’t need help,” Ryker informed them.

“I assume there are other men waiting in the wings just in case?” Mr. Smith asked.

Ryker glared at him.

“I expected nothing less. Let’s get on with it.” Mr. Smith, with a smile on his face, moved to the front of the group as they reached the doors to the homeless shelter.

It was the beginning of something new—she could feel it. Hopefully, that meant a new life with Mary in it and not without her completely. Only one person could answer that, and it was time to find out.

“Can I help you?” a woman greeted them from behind a table with papers in front of her, a check-in/out system, Paisley assumed.

Chapter Twenty-Three