Page 98 of Bound Hearts

The moment he’s finished, I swoop in to pick up our son and cuddle him close. “Your daddy is going to apologize now. No pressure or anything, but if your grandpa and uncle look at you like little royalty, it’s because you saved their kingdom,” I flippantly joke, reminding Foster of our past disagreement.

He winces from my humor. “We’ll be okay?”

Wobbling my head, I’m a little irritable from his constant check-in, but also, I can’t help but smile wryly. “It’s fine. You already spoke with them and got your little announcement out.” We can’t change the timeline, nor would we want to. As much as I wasn’t thrilled with the family business angle of bringing Levi into the world, they might as well fill their void. Maybe I’m too soft, but my priority is getting to know my son. Laughing at Foster’s dad’s birth announcement for Roth Real Estate has been the gift that keeps on giving…

“But remind me what that email said again?” I tease him, but also give him a pointed look, because I need to re-read it to make my day.

Foster sighs humorously but obliges and pulls out his phone to swipe it up. “How often am I going to have to do this?”

“Until I have it framed on the wall,” I reply and peek to my side to read the screen.

Subject: Regarding the Newest (and Smallest) Shareholder

Members of the board,

I’m pleased to share the news that Foster and his extraordinary wife, Sutton, have welcomed my grandson into the world. Levi Roth has arrived ahead of schedule at 36 weeks—apparently already eager to ensure the family business is secure ahead of schedule.

For those of you who have clenched a calendar, yes — this means that Foster has satisfied the clause, the company remains within the family, and several of you owe me expensive whiskey.

Patrick and I are thrilled to welcome Levi into the family. Understandably, Foster will remain stepped back to devote his time to his son and wife.

Regards,

Douglas Roth

“I’m extraordinary. It even says so here,” I gloat.

“He isn’t wrong, at least.”

Smiling, I remember why we’re talking about his family, and I grow serious. “It’s good your dad and brother are coming. Levi needs to meet his family, and you ordered lunch, so I don’t have to deal with that. I’m more curious if you will be okay?”

Foster doesn’t need to say it. Anything that reminds him of any inch of possibility that he caused me stress is tough for him. But every day it’s less for him.

“New beginnings, right?” He shrugs. Resting Levi’s head against my chest, I begin to draw circles on his back as I sway, and I notice Foster’s smile of admiration. “You’re a natural, you know.”

“I only ever succeed,” I muse.

The sound of a phone vibrating in Foster’s pocket signals that the door staff is announcing Foster’s family's arrival.

Truthfully, I’m kind of excited for this. My parents won’t make it out until next week. Levi will meet his family for the first time, and, selfishly, I’m really curious about the dynamic among the three men now.

Two minutes later, I have my answer when I’m sitting on the lounge chair in the living room, rocking Levi in my arms as I look at the coffee table filled with pie that we had frozen in the freezer, snacks, and a French coffee press. I can hear Foster welcoming them in, and his father sounds elated, and his brother? Reserved. The sound of footsteps coming closer draws my attention, and I quickly see Douglas grinning ear to ear as he comes toward me with his arms outstretched.

“There’s my grandson.”

Smiling, his joy is infectious. “Here he is.” I lift him slightly so Douglas can have a better look. “Tiny, ahead of time, and ready for the world.”

“Huh, he luckily got Sutton’s looks,” Patrick jokes the way brothers do as he remains back near Foster.

“Har-har.” Foster’s expression is anything but enthused. “Come, let’s sit down.”

Foster joins me by sitting on the armrest, also leaning over the table to pour coffee. “He just woke up. Probably sensed vultures on the horizon,” he mumbles humorously.

I nudge his arm with my elbow. “We’re still finding a rhythm.”

“You did well, Sutton. He’s looking healthy,” Douglas compliments as he accepts a cup of coffee from Foster.

“Well, he gave us a fright, but all is well,” I coo when I stare down at Levi. I can’t get enough of his little cheeks.