by Amy McKinley
Kara’s hand rested on my thigh, and I didn’t think I could possibly be happier. Once a week, we got together for a family meal with everyone who wasn’t out on a mission. It was one of Kara’s and my favorite things about living with Liv and Liam. And when our home was finally built in a few more months, we would take a turn hosting, as Jack and Hannah, Hawk and Stella, and Chris and Mari did.
Someday, the rest of the team would move to Maine so we could all be together in one place. Matt and Jo were waiting for the kids to complete high school—the need for stability was important for the kids, and we understood completely. Trev would remain in California for the time being because of Jules’s career. Mike, Connor, and Hayden were with us from time to time, and I hoped they would eventually live in Maine permanently.
Kara’s hand trembled on my leg, and my attention shot to her. A soft smile curved her lips, and I wanted to pull her close. I wanted her always. Her gaze sparkled, but she shifted in her chair, darting a look around the table. What is she nervous about? My spine snapped straight. “What’s wrong?”
“Not a thing.” Her smile grew. “I have an announcement to make, and I thought it would be good to do with our family present.”
What the hell is going on? Talking slowed as they became aware of what Kara had said. Finally, the room was silent, with everyone waiting for her to speak.
Her fingers threaded with mine, and I gripped hers tightly. Whatever was wrong, I would fix it—she was my life, and I would do anything for her. The link we shared was unique, and I felt it flare even brighter between us.
“We’re going to have a baby.” Her voice was quiet but loud enough for everyone present to hear.
The roar of congratulations and well wishes was deafening, but none of that mattered. A baby. Holy hell. I released her hand and wove my fingers through her hair, cupping the sides of her head and pulling her close. With my forehead to hers, I took reassurance as our breaths mingled. “Are you sure? When—”
“I’m two months along. Are you happy?”
“You know I am.” I kissed her, and the world faded. My hands trembled as I pulled her to me and held her until a high-pitched sound and tug at my elbow got through to us and we pulled apart, albeit reluctantly.
Lily bounced on her toes, excitement vibrating from her in an abundance of energy only children possessed. “Mama! Daddy said I get a sister?”
I scooped her up so she was between us, and Kara laughed. I was Papa, and Samir was Daddy. It worked for us—Lily had two dads. I could share my little girl with the man who’d done everything he could to keep Lily and Kara safe. I owed Samir more than I could ever repay. We included him and David at every family outing and event. They were always welcome and wanted in our lives.
“Or a brother,” Kara corrected. “Are you happy about being a big sister, Lily?”
“Yeah! But I want a sister.” Then she hopped off my lap, went back to her seat, and chatted to Samir, asking when he would give her a sister too.
After the sea of congratulations died down, I paused on Liv. She was worrying her bottom lip, her gaze bouncing from Liam to Kara. She’d been ill, and my protective instincts flared. “Liv?”
She pushed out a breath and leaned against Liam, who wrapped his arm around her, concern pulling his features taut. “Are you okay, sweetheart?”
“Yes. More than okay.” Again, she glanced at Kara, who gave her a tiny nod then grinned and relaxed against me. “I’m expecting too.”
“What?” Liam’s reaction was comical. Shock then elation, his Irish accent thickening. “We’re having a baby?”
Another round of congratulations erupted from all of us. We would have two infants in the same house, unless our place was ready to move in before they arrived. Either way, I didn’t care. The news was welcome. They’d been trying for a long time, and after what Liv had gone through with her first husband, we’d all been afraid she couldn’t get pregnant again. It was good news, and we would all make sure she was well cared for.
“What are you thinking?” Kara nudged me.
I pulled her chair closer. “That we should get married soon.” I wanted her and Lily with every fiber of my being. Circumstances when we were younger had kept us apart, at least during the daytime, and I was elated at the prospect of a new life together. The legs of my chair scraped as I pushed back from the table. I’d asked her already, and she’d said yes and was wearing the ring I’d given her. But in case she wanted a bigger, more traditional gesture, I would drop to a knee in front of everyone and ask her the right way.
Her hand on my arm stopped me. “Yes. Let’s get married next weekend.” She got up then sat in my lap, her arms winding around my neck as she pressed close, taking control as she liked to do from time to time. “I don’t need pretty words, Keegan. I only need you. I love you.”
Goddamn, I adore this woman. What did I ever do to deserve her? “I love you too, Kara.” I would give her the world.
The End
To continue reading the Gray Ghost series:
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Read a sneak peek of a new series that spins off the novella, Moonlit Mirage.
https://amymckinleyauthor.com/moonlit-destination-series/
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Acknowledgments
This is such a bittersweet moment with the end of Keegan and Kara’s story, and most likely the last of the Gray Ghost books. I’m leaving the door open a sliver in case one of the guys demand that I tell their story too. But for now, Hannah has a team to gather, train, and send out on dangerous missions. I hope you’ll join me on that journey as well! For a sneak peek, read the novella Moonlit Mirage.
There are so many people to thank for going on this edge of your seat ride as the Gray Ghost team went from troubled teens to the men and women they are today. I couldn’t have done this without the support of my family. To my husband and kids who have stood by me every step of the way—thank you! Your support means the world to me.
I cherish all the hours spent at Panera writing with the very gifted author and editor, Taylor Anhalt. Her insight and grammatical skills are invaluable.
My two critique partners, talented authors in their own right, have been with me through the entire series, offering thought provoking comments and ideas that have made the story better. Thank you, Kristin Kisska and Emily Albright, for your friendship, advice, and encouragement.
I look forward to weekly coffee with my friend and beta reader Maryellen Newton. We’ve set and hit some crazy goals over the years! I can’t wait to see what’s next.
To the fabulous team at Red Adept editing—Kate B. and Kristina B.—who make the process as the book nears publication seamless and enjoyable. How has it been two years already, Kate? Working with Kate has been a phenomenal experience.
Thank you, T.E. Black Designs, for doing an incredible job on the cover design. I’m already looking forward to working with you on the next set of designs.
Last but certainly not least, a special thank you to all the bloggers—especially Itsy Bitsy Book Bits—and readers who have encouraged and helped me along the way, and who continue to make my dream a reality.
Thank you.
About the Author
Amy McKinley is the romantic suspense thriller author of the Gray Ghost Novels, Moonlit Destination Series, the Five Fates paranormal romance books, and several standalone titles. Her edge-of-your-seat books are filled with surprising twists and just the right amount of heat and danger. She lives in Illinois with her husband, two daughters, two sons, and three mischievous cats.
You can find her at:
www.AmyMcKinley.com
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Also by Amy McKinley
Gray Ghost Novels
Moments That Define Us
Broken Circle
Eye of the Storm
Beneath the Surface
Vantage Point
Covert Threat
Marked for Death
Standalone Titles
Shattered Melody
Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas
Moonlit Destination Series
Moonlit Whisper
Moonlit Kiss
Moonlit Mirage
Five Fates Series
Hidden
Taken
