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19

Rick

As Valentina and I walked on the beach, each carrying one of the twins, I looked out over the ocean. I’d spent many years at sea, and thought I’d spend the rest of my life there. But here I was, finally putting down roots. I can’t imagine myself anyplace else.

I was too young to really retire, but I felt like I’d earned a year off to enjoy everything I’d missed. Besides, after much prodding, Abby agreed to go back to college. There was no better time since they had built-in babysitters. I knew Valentina would love being a grandmother, but I never imagined I’d be changing diapers for the first time in my fifties. Amazingly, the twins found me hilarious, and when they were irritable, I was called in to calm them down.

“Maybe we should head back to the house and put them to bed while they’re still sleeping,” Valentina suggested.

“I think Abby sent us out on this walk so she and Timothy could have some alone time,” I stated.

“I think they are trying for another baby. I can’t believe it. They have seven-month-old twins. How are they going to handle it?” she asked.

I laughed softly. “You mean we?” I reminded her.

“Oh, God, yes, we. We’re going to need more hands,” she said.

“I know two women who would love to come and help.”

“My mother and your sister,” she asked.

“Yes. And I bet your friends Meg and Kathleen wouldn’t mind, either,” I said.

“Are you just saying this to get out of babysitting with me?” she asked.

I shook my head. “No. I love our time with the twins. But I wanted to remind you what next weekend is.”

“Our one-year anniversary. I haven’t forgotten,” she smiled.

“Good. Because I need you to pack. We’re going away,” I said.

“Where?” she asked.

“Just pack. That’s all you need to know.”

“I’m not sure I can handle any more surprises,” Val replied.

“Have you been disappointed with any of them so far?”

“Well… no. But…”

“No buts. I know everyone will be around trying to celebrate with us, but I want you all to myself. And before you go trying to get any information out of your daughter, she knows nothing about this.” If I told one, they’d all be chatting and butting in and I wouldn’t get any time with Valentina. Hell, they’d probably all insist on coming with us.

“Is it another cruise?” she guessed.

“No.”

“Does it involve flying?”

“It involves you and me and a bed. Probably a bottle of champagne and possibly strawberries.” That was all she was getting out of me.

“That could be anywhere,” she sighed.

“Exactly. Now, let’s get these twins home and to bed. Maybe we can watch the sunset uninterrupted tonight,” I smiled.

As though the twins knew what I had planned, they stirred and started to wake.

“Guess you’ll have to settle for a sunrise instead,” she grumbled. “But this does make me look forward to your surprise getaway even more.”

Source: www.allfreenovel.com
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