Page 68 of Shattered Dreams

“It’s going to take some time, Richard.” I snapped and tried to relax. “It’s going to take us all some time.”.

He turned his back and shook his head, then turned back to me while Briar reached for him.

“Her food …”

He picked her up and walked over to the microwave. “I know, Jojo. I got this. You take care of little bit.”

He took a seat in the big plush chair by the window and talked softly to Briar as she ate.

Looking down at Emma breastfeeding happily, I whispered, “I wish he was your father.”

“Morning, mama!” The boys trickled into the room and jumped up on the king-size bed.

“The sun is out!” Tyler bounced up and down, crashing on Harrison.

“We get to go camp now, right?”

“Yes, sir.” Richard told Harrison, smiling. “The girls are eating now. We can pack up and then head to grab some breakfast at a diner. We need to eat before we get there, so we have our strength to put up the tent and set up.”

“Can I help with the tent?” Harrison scratched his chest.

“Absolutely. All three of you can.”

“What ‘bout mama?” Grady asked.

“How about if we let her set up a play place for the girls?”

“Yeah!” All three cheered.

I watched as he cleaned Briar up and then let her down to play.

“I’m gonna shower and get dressed for the day.” He high fived each boy and then pressed a kiss to my head before leaving the room.

“I like him, mama.” Harrison bit at his lip. “Can he be our dad?”

“Let’s keep him.” Grady gave me a thumb’s up.

“We can’t just keep him.” I lifted Emma to my shoulder to burp.

“But hims likes us.” Tyler nodded.

“He don’t yell.” Grady added in.

“He understands me.” Harrison spoke thoughtfully.

“I know guys. I know.” I rolled my eyes up to stop the tears. “We need to all get showered. So, ditch the clothes and hop in the shower.”

“Okay mom.” They all ran into the other room.

I put my boob away and then got up, setting Emma on the floor so I could go get the water ready for the boys, when I heard Richard yell.

“Whoa!”