The Bridge - Ch 16 - Twins?

The Bridge - Chapter 16 - New Beginnings & Twins

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental. This work is copy written by the author. All sexually active characters are eighteen years of age or older.

This work will, at times, contain instances of pregnancy, interracial sex, lesbianism, romance and affection. There is also threats of Non-consensual sex, violence, intrigue, some Dominance and submission, and a fair amount of heroism and family love and fun. And maybe even twins.

This chapter, given its contents is in the Romance category, because the basis for this chapter is precipitated by an instance of romantic love. This overall story has been in the NonConsent/Reluctance category, the Romance category, the Lesbian Sex and Interracial categories, where it could also have been posted, and will probably move around as it progresses. Which it will do if enough people like it.

I am on a bit of a hiatus while writing something that does not fall into the erotica arena. Chapter 17 will be coming, but not for a little while. Thanks for your indulgence.

The Bridge - Chapter 16 - New Beginnings & Twins

Early December 2054

Sunday was the start of my longest Christmas break ever. And my busiest. That is the longest while not pregnant. So, this year I can kick it out.

We would be spending our traditional Christmas break in downtown Philly, and some of its suburbs, seeing as much of the sights as we could fit in. Christmas eve falls on a Thursday, and the kids would have a half day. We would pack up the cars and when they got home, we would snack them up, jump in the cars and head to Center City.

New Years Eve would hit on the following Thursday. and we would return home to Romansville before the following weekend, to give the kids a chance to just crash for a minute before going back to school. Usually, Holly would plan every minute of every day, but Holly just wasn't there yet. She contributed, but not the way Holly usually does. She was getting there. She just wasn't running the show anymore. But, thank God, she was making herself a part of it more and more each day. For now, Lizzie and Bertha did most of the heavy lifting in that department.

As the days in December sped by, I found myself spending a lot of time on the phone and video chats with Linnie Lawrence, trying to get our new companies off the ground. She was getting ready to pop any day now, beside slowing her down, it made her have to think twice about everything, slowing down the whole process. But we persisted.

I don't think there's been a day since our Saturday soiree when one of our loyal troops didn't ask me how close we were to making 'it' happen. Everyone we asked is coming with us. By the time everyone had left our little get together on Saturday, every single one of them told me personally that they will be joining the new company and how happy they would be working for a bad ass like me. That's the part I like best.

In my planning, I took into account that I was supposed to get my period a couple of days before the day we were supposed to send Peace to his maker. I figured that suited the occasion and would allow me to meet with him in my most vile of moods and most painful time for me. It tends to be when I am my most bitchy. It occurred to me that a week later than that, I still hadn't gotten it. I went scouting around and of all places found an unexpired test with the help of Bertha in the kitchen. Hmmm.

I went to my en suite and peed on the stick. Well, somehow, mama's on number four. I hope Duane takes this well. More importantly how will Holly take it? It's gonna be hard, but it's Duane's, and I most definitely plan on taking it to term, and being the mother of four. Only this one would be with me, uninterrupted for the rest of our lives. I immediately called my OB/Gyn and booked her for a house call on the Monday before we go down to the city. Mama wants to know if she can drink this holiday and she is coming to see Holly then, anyway. If not, I'm gonna be spending a lot of time with Linnie and Bertha in their maternal sobriety.

The first three weeks of December were just jam packed with stuff to do. It was looking like the combination of the little girl in Linnie's tummy and the holidays were going to screw up our timeline for the whole shebang to get started on the first of the year, but Linnie assured me, even if she was not right there when it happened, that by the end of January we will have caught up on all filings and paperwork to give the companies a January 1 start. Linnie was the first to know of my soon to be announced pregnancy. Not even Duane knew before she did. Sometimes, it's gotta be sisters before misters. I felt like she was the only one I could talk to about how I was feeling and how this pregnancy, even this early on, felt so much different than my other three.

A week before the doctor was due to visit, her lab tech came out and took my vital signs and some blood and urine and said that the doctor would discuss the results when she sees me next week. The day after the technician's visit I got a call from Dr. Rubin's office to both confirm our appointment and that, indeed, I was pregnant. That was when I would break the news to Duane.

I called him down at the Navy Yard, where he was working with Herman, and his administrative staff getting the place together, and on upcoming procedures and about new hands that were coming on board. Assisting was a young lawyer from The Lawrence firm, to handle documentation of policies and procedures, and an administrative operator from Rhee Spanner, to help Alec and Avi with vetting new potential employees and spotting the standouts; those who would be leaders or those who would be duds.

"Duane. I need you home for dinner tonight. We need to talk, and I've reserved dinner for us at seven at The Stottsville Inn tonight."

"I can do that. I'll be wrapping up with the admin staff around five and I'll shoot right home. Is there something you need to tell me now?"

"Oh no, it can wait."

"Then I'll see you then. And Hannah."

"Yes, Duane."

"I love you."

"Oh Duane, I can't even begin to express how much I love you. But I will try to tonight."

"Are you gonna leave a little time tonight for us to... ya know?"

"Oh yeah. I think that's definitely on the table."

"Okay, my love. See you tonight."

I worked my ass off until the kids came home and played with them and spent time with them until dinner time. Bertha and Lizzie took care of the kids for dinner as I was going out and wanted to get ready. A special kind of ready. Once I start blossoming, it's gonna be a long time before I'm looking sexy for my man, so I'm gonna give him what I've got while I've still got it. And I expect tonight, he's gonna be motivated to give it right back to me. Is this going to be a whole new direction for our relationship or is it just the next logical step?

Duane and I had had the talk about my desire to get a hysterectomy and shut down the baby factory for good. Three babies are enough for any woman. Well, so much for that. But I'm all tingly from the thought of sitting across from him and telling him the news. Our news.

I picked out my favorite; a sexy little black minidress, but it was just too tight on me. Already? I can't believe I've gained that much weight. I didn't think I was that far along. So, I decided to make it informal and put on my short mid length denim skirt and an emerald green sweater that matched my eyes, and had Mama stitched over my right breast in a hot red color. The stitching matched my nails.

Duane had given his notice to Guardian on the first of December, but made the arrangement to continue to run the crew that guarded us until the new company took over the first of the year. He also alerted the Guardian folks that several operators would be going with him and similar arrangements would be made for them. A week later Duane gave our troops the freedom to cut their ties with Guardian. Some would take vacation time between Christmas and the New Year and some would continue to work.

Herman would be running Royce Field Services while Duane did double duty of enjoying family time with us and working to protect us all at the same time. Not to mention the work he was still doing helping Herman to put the business on solid footing for new and existing clients. He did it and made it look easy. Before the end of the year, we had fifty-three committed applicants. More than enough to cover our current needs. But those needs would grow, and we'd need more operators.

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The honeymoon period between Duane and I must not be over, because we held hands the entire way to the restaurant. Duane questioned me the entire time, like a human pry bar he tried to extract my secret. But I held firm. When we were seated, I immediately ordered appetizers but not drinks. Duane ordered one of their many draft beers. When the server returned, she asked me if I was sure there was nothing I wanted to drink, I took the wine glass and turned it over. "Leave the wine glass there for right now. I'll have some sparkling water. Perrier if you have."

"We do. I'll get that for you right away, Miss Todd."

When she left Duane gave me a side eye and asked, "Not drinking? I thought we were celebrating?"

I just looked over at the upside-down wine glass. Then I looked back at him and gave him a big, broad smile. He looked at the glass and then at me. "No. It can't be... you?"

"Are pregnant, my man. And guess who's my baby daddy."

"Don't you mess with me, woman. It had better fucking be me. This is serious."

"As a human being you're going to spend the rest of your life responsible for. And we ain't gonna need a DNA sample for this one."

He jumped up out of his chair, scaring the poor server who was just returning with my sparkling water. He got down on his knees and wrapped his arms around me, and I don't think I could count the number of times he told me that he loved me. I don't think he let go of my hand the entire time we ate dinner. He just looked at me and looked at me. And smiled and smiled and smiled. "Duane. Give me a minute to cut my steak."

"Of course, my love." And he let me cut my steak up, which I did all at once and then grabbed his hand again. Hell, I ain't lettin' go. No way. But he did feed me the first piece. Off of his fork. As we ate, we had the normal discussion two people have when one just learns that they will be three. Will it be a boy or a girl, who will it look like, what shade of chocolate will the baby be and most of all, will it be healthy? As the expert in parenthood, I tried to give Duane an idea of what was coming for both of us. A tear came to his eye when I discussed the birth and raising of my two kids with George Barry. We decided that, more than anything else, this kid was not going to have to deal with parents like the Barrys. We vowed to each other that we would let nothing get in the way of being the best possible parents and that above all, this would be a happy child. Then the elephant in the room came to the table and sat down with a great big PLOP.

"And what of Holly?" Duane said.

"Yes, what of our poor Holly? Whatever pain this child's existence causes her, I will not let it steal the joy this child will bring to both of us. It can never break the bond this child will make stronger between you and me. But I will have to tell her, well before I start showing. I'm going to do it soon. I want it on the table."

Yes, Hannah, tell her. Tell her and then ask her for a divorce. Marry me, Hannah. Please, marry me. I've never wanted anything more in my life."

"Oh, Duane. I love you so much. If not for Holly I would accept your proposal in a heartbeat. But she is my wife, and she always will be. Asking her for a divorce is just a bridge too far. Especially now, with the baby and all. That's the part that you have done an amazing job accepting so far. How far will you be able to take it?"

"I'll take it wherever it has to go to be with you. I'm not going anywhere, Hannah. Not till you kick me out the door. I want to die in our own house, looking up at you and thanking you and our children, and God willing, our grandchildren, for a long, wonderful life."

"I love you, Duane. You are the perfect man."

"I'm certainly not perfect."

"You're perfect for me. Raising this child with you is destined to be the highlight of my life. And you are going to make sure of that. Right?"

"Count on it. My head is spinning. I'm going to be a father; we're going to be parents. I gotta tell Davante. He'll never believe it, and I'm gonna win a bet."

"Oh? And what bet is that?"

"Boy, I guess it started when we were around nineteen and were on leave together at home for Christmas. Me from the Navy and Vante from the Corps. It was a chance to give the parents a thrill, and everyone else a hard time. We got to talking and he bet me a hundred bucks that he would be the first to be a father. I was young and virile and had already undertaken a handful of short relationships. If you want to call them that. So, I bet the hundred bucks and, in time, as we revisited it, the pot grew. We each put a small annual deposit into an account for this purpose. Now he's gonna owe me ten thousand big ones if I am blessed first. And twenty if it's twins. If it's not twins, the other ten large stays in limbo until the next child is born. The twenty is just an estimate. I think it's up to about twenty-three grand."

"Twins? Hey, I didn't buy into that. Twins? No way."

"Davante and I are one of three sets of twins in my family. You have a fifty percent chance of going either way."

"Just what I need right now, a baby and now twins. Let's see what the doc says before vacation. Boy, this all really fucks up my holiday celebrating."

"That's okay. Next year, we'll leave the kids with your parents, and I'll take you downtown for a celebration of our own. Or maybe if I can put a few bucks together, fly you to the islands."

"Is that what you want, to be seen around town or in some chic resort with this fat, dumpy blonde?"

"No. I want to be seen with the most beautiful woman I've ever known... The mother of my child... The owner of my heart."

My eyes got very wet, very quickly. Other parts of my body followed. I grabbed his hand with both of mine. "Duane. Let's skip dessert."

"No. I want dessert. Let's go to my place. It's ten minutes away and I know what I want a taste of."

"It's right here, handsome. All you gotta do is come and get it."

Fortunately, I was well connected with the Stottsville Inn by now. We held several corporate leadership functions there over the past year and, as a family, it's an enjoyable night out and a break for Bertha. And we all have our favorite dishes there, so it's easy with the kids. I just signed for dinner, dropped a hundred-dollar bill on the table, as a celebration of my relief that Duane and I are on the same page and are going to have a wonderful life together as parents. But tonight, we're going to have a wonderful time as lovers. While I'm still at my fighting weight. Or thereabouts.

I pawed at him a lot on our way to his place. I must admit, he sped all the way. Just don't call the cops on him. He's gonna be a father, for God's sake. When we finally entered his place, I stopped him in the kitchen. "Duane, we're going to be parents now. We've got to be respectable and should probably take things more slowly."

"Yeah, fuck that." And he picked me up, slung me over his shoulder and ran me up the stairs. I never knew it was coming. But when we hit the upstairs landing, he slowed it down. He gently laid me down on his bed and sat next to me and started kissing me. As he did this, he was undressing me, one piece at a time; in such a way that I could hardly tell it was happening. And where he undressed me, he kissed me. So, when my damp, pink panties came sliding down my left leg, he decided he was going to do the best he could to give kisses to his child. Trust me, his child was very appreciative. Very appreciative.

When he finally came up for air, he lay next to me and showered me with pussy laden kisses. Fuck it. I kissed him back. Oh yeah. Then it was time for the main event and, believe me, he brought his 'A' game. From the moment he stuck the first inch of that thing into me till the time he pulled it out soft and wet, he looked into my eyes. Never straying. And this was no ordinary fucking. He was especially gentle in every way, gentle kisses, gentle hugs, gentle squeezes and a few gentle rubs. I felt like I was losing my virginity all over again. And he took everything so slowly but never stopped making my blood boil. Something was happening to me, but I had no idea what. It felt like sweet, soft little orgasms that just came and went as he virtually cradled me in his hand and rocked my world. I could have let it go on forever, but I knew it wouldn't. I decided to see if Duane would take a shot and go for it. He did.

Duane was sitting on the corner of the bed with me in his lap, his cock inside me, my legs wrapped around him. We were making out and rubbing and stroking and pretty much making each other feel oh so good when he lifted me up, turned and placed me on the bed, in the corner. "Are you sure you want this? Do you have any concerns about the baby?"

"I have no concerns about the baby. You're big, my man, but you ain't that big."

"Okay, sugar, here I come."

And he did. But not for about ten minutes. And my oh my, what a ten-minutes it was. We started out with him pounding me in what I would call a modified missionary position. With me lying on the bed, my ass hanging off of the corner, with him holding my legs up and out, he extracted three solid orgasms from me. Then he flipped me over, still in the corner, and into the doggie position, where he pounded the shit out of my poor pussy until she screamed out and wet the bed. Yeah, he's that good. But still not done.

We snuggled up on the dry part of the bed where we formed into a sixty-nine and tried to suck the life out of each other. Well, I was having orgasm after orgasm. Not the big ones, but nice, warm, waves of ooey gooey pleasure that sweep over your body.

Then he said, "Fuck that!" He pulled me up to the head of the bed and took me missionary. And his missionary was all about the mission. Now remember, this is a man who was a Navy SEAL. And a big man at that. Just think of the impact of that coming down on you, ladies, again and again. It's not for the faint of heart. But if you've got what it takes. Whew! Memorable? Oh, yeah,

Up to this point, everything he had done was for me. He certainly gave me my fair share of pleasure. Now it's his turn and wherever he wants to go with this, I'm in it for the ride. With the devil in his eyes, he asked me with all sincerity, "Are you ready for this, Hannah Todd?"

"I was born ready, Big Daddy. But with you and only you. Go for it."

I don't know what it is about his cock that has just the right bend to it, so it hits me where it fits me. He pounded and pounded again, his eyes still never leaving mine. He kept this up for what had to be another five minutes before calling out that he was coming. And then he did. And so did I. Now there were no more dry spots on Duane's bed. I don't know about him, but I am D-O-N-E. If he finds himself needing a blowjob, I'll muster one up for him. But we're putting kitty to bed for the night.

Bare ass naked, we stripped the bed and brought the sheets and blankets and all down to the mudroom. Then we flipped the mattress and remade the bed. There we were, the two of us, still undressed and drinking tea, talking about what a wonderful life we were embarking on. Then we jumped into the shower and did our best to get the cum and pussy juice off us. By the time Duane decided it was time to go, we were dressed, and I was smelling like a rose, and he was smelling like that cologne I love so much. I think it's called 'Let Me Fuck Your Brains Out,' or maybe 'For a good time, call Duane.'

On the way home, we talked about the holidays and what he was going to do to spend as much time with me and the rest of us as possible. He'd attached three other bodyguards, plus a driver, to watch us over our vacation in the city. We're taking the Triple 'A' team, Alec, Avi and Anthony. Ronnie would be our primary driver. As much as we'd love to have Herman with us, he is down at the Navy Yard, running the show for his former SEAL teammate and best friend Duane, while the boss is attempting to take some vacation time. I'm certain he will spend time with us at the townhouse over the holidays. After all, Celeste needs to go swimming, and that's Herman's department.

Then it came time for me to lay down some rules. "Duane, I don't want anyone to know about the baby yet. Nobody. It's bad luck if you spread it around too soon. Give it a few weeks, or at least till the doctor says we are good to go."

"I don't see a problem with that. It will drive me crazy not to be able to tell everyone, but for you, I can do that."

"There is one person I want you to tell, Duane. He'll understand and he can keep a secret. Your brother, Davante."

"Thank you so much, Hannah. He is the one person it would be hardest not to tell. While it's just you and me in the car, I want to call him right now and tell him."

"Go for it, Champ. I'll just sit here and look pregnant."

With a big smile, he said, "Call Davante."

Over the car's speaker system came, "Hey brother. What's up?"

"Just wanted to call with a couple of things. First, how is the wrap up going?"

"Good. We've got the drugs and Polansky who has been sent to our version of Siberia. We expect to be making the big announcement on Monday. I keep trying to tie this one up, but it seems every day or so a new body turns up associated with one of these gangs. I expect they are now at war with each other. We're keeping a close eye on them and Dunbar's people are struggling, big time. Just wonder where that money went to. It's really the only important loose end."

Davante was unaware that I had put a bounty out for Peace Dunbar's surviving miscreants from the gang rape of Holly, and my hitters were out earning a few extra bucks on their off days. So far there was an additional seven found in various stages of dead, in a number of places around the Delaware Valley. The money was under Duane's basement in his special vault.

"Well, Vante, I'm sure wherever the money went, it's to a better place than where it was going."

"Yeah, right? Sure, it is."

"Hey Vante, I've got some news for you. You're about to become a bit poorer. I hope you've been keeping up with deposits into the account."

"What, you... WHAT?"

"Yep. Due date is not official yet, but we expect sometime in August or September."

"It isn't twins, is it?"

"Don't know." He said as I heaved a 'God forbid.'

"You know, for the most part, my portion of the investigation will wind up with my press conference on Monday. It may continue, but not under my watch. I'm taking an extended vacation for the rest of the year. Thinking of spending a little time up here in Philly, maybe get to catch up with my brother and meet his lady. The gal who is going to grow our family and keep it alive. Are you on the line, pretty lady?"

"Now, how do you know I'm a pretty lady?"

"My brother works for your enterprises. I know lots about you. Besides, if you weren't a pretty lady, Duane would have no interest in you. And I understand you are quite the badass."

"Oh? I'm surprised you'd be so interested."

"Please. He's my twin brother. He's the closest thing in this world to being me. And believe me, I'm very interested. When can we get together? I'm free after Monday at around seven."

"I'll tell you what," I said. "Right after you conclude your business on Monday, I will have a car waiting for you. Bring your things with you, because we just happen to have an available room. Stay with us for a couple of days and we can figure it out from there. You'll get to meet our menagerie of children and get to sample some of the best cooking you'll ever eat. And Duane and I have talked, and he has promised to cut a good number of days off his work schedule so he can vacation with me and the family."

"Call it a working vacation," Duane said.

"Is there any other kind?" His brother echoed. "Invitation accepted, Ms. Todd."

"Oh please, Davante, you are about to become uncle to my child. Aren't we past that?"

"Sorry, Hannah. Just trying not to push it."

"Push away. But please, Davante, don't tell anyone our news yet. We want to spring it at Christmas time, downtown. You are part of a very tight circle."

"You can count on me. I expect to give my final report tomorrow, live, on the six o'clock news. They'll just run repeats of that at eleven. Once I'm done, there's nothing left to tell. I'll do that from the site in Chester. After that, I will meet with members of the various jurisdictions and introduce them to my successor. We'll do that on site as well. At that point, I will have a driver. Do you want me to let him take me to you?"

"No. Just let him drop you there. Duane and I will pick you up in the Subaru. It's all very discrete and unassuming. Very soccer mom."

"You people think of everything."

"We have to. We have no choice."

"I see your point. Okay. I will look for a man who looks just like me around seven at the front gate of the storage facility. See you both then. Love you, bro."

"Love you right back, bro."

The last couple of minutes talking to Davante were spent in the driveway. "Well," I said, "it doesn't sound like we'll get any pushback from Davante."

"Never really expected any. He held up his end, and I held up mine."

"Is Davante attached in any way?"

"In all his years in the Bureau, he dated a fair sampling of women cutting across all racial and cultural lines. He'd also been assigned many, many details with women, and, being my twin, they couldn't get enough of him. But he hasn't been caught yet. And no children that he knows of."

"How humble of you to say so, Duane. Davante, are you both this degree of humble?"

"Oh please, pretty lady, I am but a humble public servant. My brother is the big wig in the private sector."

"Alright Vante," Duane said. "See you Monday."

We walked in and we were pretty late and the only one around was Alec, who was sipping a coffee in the kitchen and looking out at the property, talking to the outside operators on his comm-link.

"Everything all buttoned up tight, Alec?" I asked.

"Tight as a drum Miss T. All's well."

"Always good to know you're on the job, Alec."

"Thanks, Miss T. You are the best. And you look great tonight."

Duane came upstairs with me while I checked on all the kids and Lizzie and Holly. Everyone was dozing off and Lizzie was snoring away in bed with Georgie. Holly was spooned into Celeste, and they looked so darned peaceful.

I kissed Duane goodbye and told him to get home and get some rest. Or just pick a room. The room Davante will be using is open right now and he can just go down the hall and crash there. "And no, you cannot sleep with me tonight. I've got a pulsating pussy right now, and it needs no more of what you do to it. Not right now, at least."

He got the message, and down the hall he went. I was cleaned up and refreshed at Duane's after our little tête-à-tête and the making of the love. Flannels tonight and right to sleep. I better get it now, 'cause in a couple of months the creature within will not permit it.

Monday is a day that brought great promise. The demise of Peace Dunbar and his litany of criminal activity will be laid out to the world in brief. Only to be followed by months and months, maybe even years, of reports of Dunbar's activity in the drug and human slavery markets. Then tonight I am going to meet the identical copy of the man I love. Not having realized until recently that he even existed. I believe that meeting him will somehow bring me even closer to Duane. Well, tonight we shall see.

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The kids were in school, and we were all lounging around in our warm pajamas and robes. Even Bertha was in her pajamas and wearing her Uggs to keep her feet warm on this wintry day. Duane was out and about checking on the property when they announced during the commercials that they would air a special news conference at noon, regarding the dust up in Chester on Thanksgiving night. I called Duane and told him to get his ass over here. He said to just record it.

At noon, as Duane crossed the threshold of the kitchen door and turned into the family room, the news came on and first up was reportage of what the press was calling the Thanksgiving Massacre. It started with the mayor, who introduced the governor, who introduced the Sheriff, who introduced each successive alphabet agency. And the last to speak was the man whose auspices this was all done under. FBI Special Agent Davante Royce.

"My name is Davante Royce; I'm a special agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. We have overseen the investigation and our report we expect to be the most thorough. That report will be explained at six o'clock on the news. What I can tell you in brief is that two entities attempting to make a drug deal found themselves at odds and pretty much killed each other. We believe anywhere from one to four people involved in Thursday night's ruckus escaped from the scene. We recovered the drugs, but the money is gone. That leads us to believe that there are survivors of this incident. If anyone knows anything regarding The Green Street Counts, Peace Dunbar Enterprises or anything else that may have transpired at this storage facility on Thanksgiving night, please contact the FBI at the number below on your screen."

Just as it seemed he was about to wrap up, one more thing occurred to him. "The last thing I am prepared to reveal right now is that the previously unidentified remains found on the scene have been identified by DNA evidence to be Peace Dunbar, the retired football player. In follow-up to our investigation, we got warrants for all assets and properties of the estate and have gained access to Mr. Dunbar's office and home. A preliminary investigation of the contents of the office point to a life of crime led by Mr. Dunbar that is, quite frankly, hard to believe. Areas of his home show a life of debauchery and perversion."

Then Davante hit with the knockout punch.

"For some time, it appears Mr. Dunbar has been into major drug dealing and human trafficking of young, tender aged girls. We have found the evidence against him to be overwhelming. It's a shame he is not around to prosecute. We could have sent him up for a thousand years without the possibility of parole. Thank you. And thank you Chester and Philadelphia for being such great hosts. I'll see you at six for a wrap up."

"Are you sure it's Dunbar?"

"Yes. Alright. If you have any questions, pose them to me at six. I'll be ready for you to fire away." And off he walked.

Good. That's just what I wanted to see. Good announcement. Let's see what the extended version at six has to say. I'm getting a little concerned that I'd better watch what I say around Davante, but I'll try not to show it. Not to mention what I can't show him. When I meet Davante Royce tonight, it will not be a time for me to be naïve. It's a good time for me to keep my ears open and my big mouth shut. Time to let Duane do the talking. Time for me to talk about babies.

After the news, we had some time, so I proposed to Lizzie that we jump in the hot tub and soak for a while. I think she liked that idea a little too much. Since she's been up here with us, she hasn't been getting her usual quota of pussy. So, I'm thinking she's a little hungry in that department right now. And I'm fine right where I'm at. As we were talking about it, Caroline came through and into the kitchen. She was picking up a small bundle of Bertha's cinnamon buns and I grabbed hold of her. "Caroline, are you on duty?"

"No, ma'am. Just got relieved by Danny."

"You have anything happening right now?"

"Nothing in particular. Just going home to relax. Ronnie's on shift and I'll just wait for him."

"Good. Come join Lizzie and me in the hot tub. Let's mix a little business with pleasure. I'd like to pick your brains a little while Lizzie's around and see if she has any input. She is my best friend and closest advisor."

"I'd be honored. But I didn't bring a suit."

"Come on, Caroline. We're all big girls here."

"Lead the way."

And up we went. Lizzie ran the tub as I did my best to make Caroline comfortable with the fact that soon she would be in a hot tub, naked, with her boss, an avowed bisexual. She'd also be there with the boss's best friend. A total dyke. Being the gracious host that I am, I offered to help her undress and gave her a hit of the vape pen, which she graciously accepted, before stepping into the tub. We all stripped down, and Lizzie got into the tub first, holding her hand out to Caroline to help her into the tub. It was more than a gesture.

Our time in the hot tub was a frolic. We laughed and splashed and giggled and poked at each other. But nobody had sex. At least not the conventional type. But Lizzie had her hands up Caroline's cooch and she was practically drooling over Caroline by the time we jumped into the shower to wash off. We did each other's' backs, but Lizzie spent a little too much time on Caroline's front. Then Lizzie whispered into her ear, and she giggled and nodded her head yes. I gave them till the sun came up before they were tasting each other. I knew for sure when Lizzie gave me a big wink when Caroline was leaving. Their kiss also lingered just a little bit longer than you might expect of two new acquaintances.

"Han, do you mind if I take the night off?"

"Oh? What's this?"

"I want to spend a little time with Caroline."

"Spend time?"

"Okay, she's one hot piece of ass, and I want some of that. Okay?"

"That's right, Liz, just say what you mean. I can handle it. I'll be home tonight, anyway. We're hosting Duane's brother, and I think he will be with us for the better part of a week."

"Fine. You have your Royce brothers. I'm just going to have to go that much harder on Caroline. Think she can take it?"

"Oh, I think she can take it. She's one tough cookie. She was a Marine, and it don't get much tougher than that."

"Yeah, but she hasn't seen tough till she's seen Lizzie tough."

"Ain't that the truth? Well, tough Lizzie, batten down the hatches because here come the kids."

It was a brisk but beautiful afternoon once the sun came out, and when the kids got home, the first thing they wanted to do was go outside. So, they snacked and outside they went. Domingo loves to work daytimes because it gives him the chance to spend time with Georgie. Domingo is the father of a little boy, nine years old. He was also a minor league baseball player as a young man.

Rarely, Georgie didn't run up to him with a ball and glove in hand, and today was no different. It always put a smile on Domingo's face and he'd look to me to make sure it was okay if he took the time away from his duties to spend some time with his little buddy. It was always more than okay with me and I let him know it.

Beyond their competence and dedication, these folks truly show my family love. The kids never thought of them as bodyguards. They were just part of the family and were treated with the same love and respect that Holly and I received from them. And despite that he looks to be playing with a child, he has his wits about him and his situational awareness is always tuned in to what is happening around him. Trust me, he's working.

I felt the need to sit down with Domingo about a particular concern I have about my Georgie. And that is the thought of him following in his father's footsteps. Domingo originally came to work for the crew that guarded the Barrys. George Barry hired him one day when he took the final employment interview outside and threw him a glove. They went outside, and for twenty minutes they threw the ball up and back, getting harder and faster as they moved along through the interview. When Barry threw the ball straight up in the air as hard as he could, he offered Domingo the job the minute he caught it. Like Duane and many others, I inherited him. My Georgie has known him all his life. Sometimes you just get lucky. And if I get really lucky, Domingo will be with us for years to come. Oh. Word has it he caught that high fly ball behind his back. Show off.

"Domingo," I said to him, "I want you to continue to work with Georgie on his baseball skills, but I don't want it to be the only thing in his life. I don't even want it to be the most important. I don't know if you know all about his father."

"Miss T., I think I know more than you expect. I worked for the man for three years. You learn a lot about someone when you work that closely with them for that long. Until Georgie was born, I continually tried to get my post changed to another family. But Mr. Barry really liked me here and would not let me go, insisting that Guardian fire me if I leave."

"Yeah, sounds like George. How is your young man at the game?"

"Better than I ever was. At nine he is hitting and throwing like a twelve-year-old. The School District's Phys Ed. people have recommended he be groomed as a catcher, the position he has mostly been playing. We play pitch and catch most days, sometimes for hours. He can't get enough. I would love to put him together with Georgie to see if, kid to kid, they could work on their skills. Take a little heat off of me, to be honest."

"You are a card. Make it happen, Domingo. Let's try one day a week and see how that works. One day when you are working. He and Georgie can do their workout after school and, if they bond, he can hang around your complete shift with the kids. I believe Georgie will be very excited. There is always room for more kids in this house." As I said that, I kind of chuckled, knowing that we'd be making room for one more. At least.

"Miss T., I told you I'm going with the new company, didn't I?"

"Yes, Domingo. I think you were the first. It brings me great joy on many levels that you are going to be with us."

"That was the easiest decision I ever had to make. You let Domingo know what you need, and I will make sure you get it."

"You've been one hundred percent so far, my friend. Just keep it up. And let Georgie know he has a new friend coming to visit. And I'll bet you will be happy to give your arm a break."

"You don't know the half of it. Between those two boys, I get quite the workout."

"Good, I like my people fit. Go, Domingo, do the rest of your shift and have a great day. Please do me a favor and send Lizzie in."

"Around here, working for you, Miss T. I always have a great day."

Domingo went outside to relieve Lizzie, who was doing her best to pitch and catch with Georgie. At almost five, he was doing better than her. But she did her best to muster up her inner bull dyke and throw the ball straight. Catching, well that was another matter.

Georgie was delighted to see his buddy, Big Dom, and threw the ball to him as hard as he could, and Domingo caught it with his bare hand. As big as the bodyguard is, and he is defensive lineman big, he is as gentle with my little George as if he were a fairy princess. But believe me, he's no princess. And according to his wife, a lovely woman and a real hotty, he's no fairy.

When Lizzie came in, we sat around chatting and I had an herbal tea, and she had a coffee. Things were pretty quiet right now. For the third week in a row, two of my Navy men, Herman and Alec took Celeste and Georgia swimming, with Holly accompanying the first week.

Our neighbors, the Tuttlehills, had a daughter who was an Olympic level swimmer looking toward the 2056 Nationals, and Olympics. They were richer than sin, even richer than me, and they put in an indoor, two-lane Olympic length pool, which sat on the first level of an addition to their already enormous house. It would serve as a model for the addition we would be adding. Theirs was conveniently done by the contractor who had done the work on Bertha's place, the Women's Center and Gloria's family's home. There was little doubt they would be doing ours.

Harriet Tuttlehill, Harry to her friends, at seventeen and a high school junior, was one of Pennsylvania's most distinguished swimmers. She has been All State in her class in two distances for the past four years. She swam at an elite level, with aspirations of attending the next or following Olympic games. Unbeknownst to our Celeste, her little sister was a schoolmate who was a year ahead of her. Kimmie Tuttlehill loved swimming opposite Celeste. She loved how the younger girl gave it her all and tried her best to win every race. Harry wound up to be Celeste's biggest challenge, and she Harry's biggest fan. When learning about mentors in school, and asked if she had a mentor, she named Harry. It wasn't even close.

Harriet's mother, Gloria, the gal I have come to call 'Glorious,' is a true wonder. She's not particularly pretty, but I have come to find her attractive in a masculine sort of way. And I get a vibe from her. Gaydar? Maybe. But nobody can say a bad word about Gloria, and you'd better not say one to me. I now consider her a friend who is doing nothing but getting closer all the time. I never asked her about using her pool. One day, I just got a call.

"Ms. Todd?"

"I'm Hannah Todd."

"Hannah, what a beautiful name."

"Why thank you. What a nice thing to hear on an otherwise insane day."

"Better you than me, sister. I've had the good fortune to be able to minimize that except for swimming season. Then I usually have to ask someone what city or even what state I'm in. But I try my best to avoid the state of confusion."

"Might I say that I've heard so much about you and I am remiss that we have not yet met?"

"Well, today we correct that, Hannah. We have a common interest I'd like to talk to you about."

"I'm all ears."

"Swimming. We both have girls who love to swim."

"Actually, although my daughter, Georgia, loves to swim, it's Celeste, my wife Holly's daughter, who is the real competitive swimmer, although she is pretty much a daughter to me."

"Well, maybe we should bring Holly into this conversation."

"Actually, Holly is not really at her best. As her wife, I think I can speak on her behalf. Celeste is a big fan of Harriet's. Huge fan. She has a poster with her and the state championship swim team from last year on her bedroom wall. We've even taken her to some of her local meets."

"Ah yes, we are very proud of last season. It was Harriet's best. With hard work and motivation, there is no end to where she is going. 2056 isn't that far away. She rules the back stroke in this state and is currently number six in her class at nationals. Number one in the state in two distances."

"So, what brings you to me? We have a little fish here, trained by a Navy SEAL, but she's just eight."

"That's not what my Kimmie says. They have swim club together and your Celeste just blows everyone away. In fact, she and one other boy have been separated to give them either more free rein or more advanced instruction. I want to tell you; swimming is really important to this family. My husband, Alvin, was chosen to represent this country back in the day as part of the men's water polo team, but they did not medal. To be honest, it wasn't really close, but he was selected twice to compete with the team. But Alvin has great spirit, and that's what won my heart. And he has gone all in on Harry."

"Well, add us to the fan club. When I tell Celeste I spoke with Harriet Tuttlehill's mom, she will just go wild."

"Well, Hannah, let's make sure it doesn't end at that. Why don't you have Holly bring Celeste and you bring your little one and we can have an afternoon of swimming? Let's do it on Saturday."

I looked through my calendar on my supercell and I had a teleconference in the morning, but was free the rest of the day. "Can we make it in the afternoon? I have a conference call in the morning."

"Perfect. Call to let me know how many are coming and we can have a light lunch before we hit the pool. So, we're set?"

"We are. And when Celeste hears this, she is going to go off the deep end, so to speak. I will not be able to contain her until Saturday."

"I know Harriet will be excited too. She loves to swim competitively, even against her sister who, apparently, cannot hold a candle to your girl. Trust me, they are competitive swimmers. Despite the age difference, they will love each other. See you Saturday."

When I got home and told Celeste that she was going to be swimming this Saturday with Harriet Tuttlehill, she went buck wild, as I expected. But I had a little fun of my own, the way I broke the news.

While the girls were in the tub together, I asked them if either of them had plans for Saturday. Celeste, being Celeste, said, "If we had plans, you would know about them, wouldn't you? Do we have plans?" Little wise guy.

"Actually, I was talking to my friend Gloria today, and she invited us to come swimming at her pool. Just the girls."

"Yay!" the girls called out. "Where?" Celeste asked.

"Locally, she's a neighbor. Maybe five minutes away."

"Do we know her?" Georgia asked.

"Good question, Peach. Celeste goes to school with one of her children."

And the wheels were turning in Celeste's head. You could almost smell the smoke she was thinking so hard. It took all my strength to keep from busting out laughing and spilling the beans.

"Who's that, Mommy Hannah?"

"Her name is Kimmie."

"Kimmie?" Georgia asked. "Kimmie Tuttlehill?"

Celeste exploded. "HARRIET TUTTLEHILL?"

"Yes, dear. Problem?"

"Problem. It's amazing. How... Who... What?"

"Celeste, you obviously made an impression. Mrs. Tuttlehill called me to say that Harriet would like to swim with you. She finds she practices better against a competitor, and you have been recommended."

"Mommy Hannah."

"Yes, Celeste."

"She's a teenager, and... she's... Harriet Tuttlehill. How can I ever swim with her?"

"Don't you even think about it. You are both natural swimmers. I know you will form a common bond, and it will be good for both of you. Just give it a chance."

"Oh, don't worry Mommy Hannah, I'm gonna go swimming with Harry Tuttlehill and nothing can stop that."

"Good. I know you'll make me proud."

That was about three weeks ago in mid-November. Before Holly's major abuse and the whole Dunbar dustup, Holly took her, and then me. But every time Alec and Herman accompanied them, both to observe, but Herman to be proud. And the girls both gave him a reason to be proud. But Celeste blew everyone's mind, especially Harry Tuttlehill. Harry fell head over heels with Celeste and they became fast friends. We will be attending many swim meets in the future. For all three girls. And Georgia, I expect, in time.

Today, Monday the Thirtieth of November, 2054, after the kids got home from a short after-school swim at the Tuttlehills, we got right to dinner. As we ate, I let the kids know we are going to have a visitor who will be staying with us as of tonight. So, you may see him around. You've never met him, but you'll recognize him.

"Is he famous?" Celeste asked.

"In a sense, he is. He's been on TV."

"He's famous and I'll recognize him, but I've never met him. I guess it could be many famous people."

"But it's not. You see his face every day, and you will see tomorrow. Promise."

"Alright, Mommy Hannah, but why are you always so cryptic?"

"You know me, Celeste, it's just my way. I like to keep those little minds of yours humming. And how was swimming with Harry today?"

"Dreamy. Watching her glide through the water is a wonder to behold."

"Is that what it is, Celeste?"

"Yep."

"And did you beat her in any of the races?"

After all the kids stopped laughing, not having the self-control we adults have, I took them to task. "Now, children, you mind yourselves. We all know how dedicated Celeste is to her swimming. She is practicing with a world class swimmer nine years older than her. It's never about Celeste beating Harriet. It's about two young women who share a love of swimming. I'm envious of their friendship. You should be happy for your sister."

"I'm sorry, Celeste," Georgia said. "I love to swim too, but not like you and Harry. You guys are both a couple of pups."

"I'd like to see Herman swim with Harriet," Georgie said. "I bet he would kick her a..."

"Georgie. Mind your mouth."

"Sorry, mommy."

Nothing if not well mannered. Thank God for the little things. In an attempt to return to regularity, we had reading and tablet time. By seven-thirty, everyone was down for the count. And Lizzie and I found ourselves in the kitchen. Holly and Aggie followed after Holly self-medicated and put on a pad. The doctor will be here next Monday and two Mondays after that. She will check me out and Holly as well. I think that's the day I fear the most. She should be able to tell me with her portable ultrasound, whether it's twins. Boy, I sure seem to be gaining weight like I never have. Oh, God. Please no.

There was no way I would make it to pick up Davante, so Duane went by himself. He said it was for the best, and they would probably stop for a beer and would be home around ten. He better not go and get himself drunk. I will kick his ass.

But I did not get my wish. Ten turned into eleven and then into midnight. Still no Duane. Then my supercell buzzed in. It was Ronnie. He said that Duane called him, and he was shitfaced, and he and Avi were going to pick up them and the car.

Boy, was I pissed. But not as pissed as I'd be if he drove. All I care about is that he is coming home alive and unharmed. They were less than ten minutes away at the Stottsville Inn.

When the car pulled up, the guys first brought in one of the brothers and then the other, depositing them next to each other on the sofa. The four of us girls looked from one to the other. Two attractive, nicely dressed, but a bit disheveled, African-American men, drunk out of their gourds. And for the life of me, I did not know which was which. I just fucked the shit out of one of these guys and shame on me if I don't know which one. And there's no one around to make introductions. At least no one sober enough.

Well, I wound up being the tie breaker. I knew how he went off to work today, in that gray suit. All you have to do is look at the label. No G-Man can afford a wardrobe like that. "This one here, with the burgundy tie, is Duane. Do me a favor and drag his ass up to the guest room where he is staying. Don't undress him, don't dress him, just leave him there in the bed. Feel free to take his shoes off. Then do the same with this one, handsome fellow that he is. Once they are secured, go home, or back to your post, however this went down. And thank you both for coming to our aid.

"Never a problem for you, Miss T." Ronnie said. "You call, we come. It's that simple."

"It's not, but you certainly make it that way. You guys have a good night, and a safe one."

"Thanks Miss T. You have a good night too. I'm personally guaranteeing a safe one."

Once the guys took off, I did my own rounds and checked on all our residents and guests. I threw on my flannels and climbed into bed with Duane. Fuck it. I've just got no more time left to hide something from everyone that they already know. Of course, my supercell is set for six, so I can get up and into the kitchen before everyone gets to moving around. And if they catch me in bed with Duane, well, it's story time. We'll see.

-------------------------------------

Fortunately for me, my alarm went off at six. I beat the kids, who would usually be up at around six-thirty. So, I gave the man lying next to me, who still smelled of beer, a kiss on the head. Didn't want to kiss him on the mouth in case I accidentally got the wrong one. Then I went into my own en suite to brush my teeth and put my hair up in a really rough ponytail.

I went down to the kitchen, and Bertha was getting ready to pour me a cup of coffee. I would make it my only cup today. It would be herbal tea for the rest of the day. I hope my doing that won't tip my hand, not that I will be able to keep it from Bertha for any length of time. Mac was there too, and Duane was there. He was dressed in jeans. Not his usual dress, unless he is doing things like gardening or horseback riding. Or shooting. Maybe he and Davante plan on shooting.

But I looked again, and I knew it was not Duane. It was Davante, and he was being a trickster. I just left Duane passed out on a bed upstairs. But I played along with him and gave him a sly wink. "What's for breakfast, Bertha? Can we have a Breakfast Taco Tuesday?"

"I don't see why not. I can whip that up for everyone, the young ones and us old folk, in about half an hour. You get the kids and I'll get to cookin'. Mac, can you be my darling and go to The Greenhouse and dig up a red onion, pick me a couple of nice, ripe, firm tomatoes and avocados and a lettuce?"

"For you, my dear, anything." And out he went. Davante, trying his best to do his best Duane impression, asked what kind of tacos she was making. That was his first mistake. This was his first rodeo and Duane lived for Taco Tuesday, all three meals. So, this was a dead giveaway.

Bertha, not to be toyed with, looked him up and looked him down. Then she got up real close, reached up, and she gave him a good sniff around his neck. She shook her head. "I don't care what you look like, mister. You ain't Duane Royce."

Then down the stairs and into the kitchen walked the real Duane Royce, probably in his underwear with a robe that definitely wasn't his wrapped around him. He was looking pretty hungover. Everybody burst out laughing, even Duane.

"Bertha," I said. "Get the man a cup of coffee. It looks like he had a hard night."

"I always could drink him under the table." Davante said.

"And you," Bertha said, pointing at Davante, "What's your story, Mr. Double Indemnity?"

"I'm Duane's twin brother, Davante. Vante to my friends."

Bertha pointed at him and gave him a closer look. "You're that FBI agent, right?"

"Correct. I am a Special Agent with the FBI. But more important than that, tell me about these breakfast tacos."

"It's easy. We got hard tacos, and we got soft tacos. We got eggs, we got cheese, we got diced ham, chorizo or crumbled bacon or an old favorite of the masses SPAM."

"And I see you are cutting up veggies and Mac is bringing more."

"That's for the Pico de Gallo, which, along with this guacamole, will give us a good healthy veggie portion."

"That sounds great. Can I get one of those."

"Sure. Give me a few minutes to finish up with the bacon and crisp up the ham. If you want SPAM tell me now and I'll dice some up and throw it on the flat top." By the time you could say, 'Gimme some of that,' all her stations were set up and she was ready to go.

As Mac was dicing onions and tomatoes and shredding lettuce, Bertha scrambled up a stack of eggs and green onions right there and put together an egg, chorizo sausage, bacon, cheese and avocado Taco with Pico de Gallo on top. And for Davante she didn't even ask, she just knew, and sprinkled it generously with hot sauce. Her own homemade hot sauce. Davante was very pleased.

As the appropriately dressed kids took their places Bertha made them each a taco of their choosing. These kids knew the drill. They'd been through many a Taco Tuesday. Davante marveled at the precision with which we all moved through our paces, from the time the kids hit the kitchen till they were in their car and off to school. The whole time, the kids eyed up Duane and Davante. They had never met identical twins, and they were a little uneasy with the idea. Wait till they find out there's going to be another kid running around. We'll see how that goes over. Well, in this crazy house, all three of these kids are used to these kinds of changes and do a great job of adapting.

The kids gone; we chowed down to some tacos of our own. You could have labelled the rest of the day 'Blow Davante's Mind Day.' Starting with said tacos. "How do you do it, Bertha? I have never tasted anything like this. Truly Mexican and absolutely breakfast. It's wonderful. You people eat like this all the time?"

"Almost every day." I said. "Of course, we have to give Bertha a day off every now and then."

"Don't need no day off. Just want to take care of my family." Bertha said. "And with the holidays coming, I'm busier than ever. Both me and Aggie are running around like chickens without heads. And that's just fine with me."

"Well, Bertha, you along with everyone else know what's coming. We have discussed it, and I have insisted that you take some time with your family in Downingtown."

"Don't get all up in arms, missy, I've talked to the family, and I will be with them from Tuesday the twenty-second till Christmas day, on Friday. I want to be with ya'll for the football game, the zoo and I want to be at the townhouse for the parade. And don't forget, Aggie will be with me so ya'll will be on your own till after Christmas."

"Lizzie," I asked, "Do we have staff to cover?"

"Holly was a big help. She hooked me up with lots of her contacts and we pretty much put it together. We'll have the caterer, just a small crew, for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. That takes care of dinner on Wednesday and eats all day on Thursday. Friday I've told the caterer to prepare for around fifty people to pass through. We'll just be offering a small plate buffet, with maybe a station for quick cook ups, like omelets, and definitely soups. We'll entertain from about noon till five, then let the people go about their own business and we can have a nice sit-down family dinner. The caterer asks for a forty-five-minute turn around and they can have dinner on the table before six. It's the holidays, ya gotta bend the rules a little. What time do you think you'll be leaving Downingtown on Friday?"

"Miss Lizzie, I think I will have had enough of them by noon. If you can have me picked up around then, I can help with dinner."

"No," both Holly and I said at the same time. Then I deferred to her, knowing full well we were on the same page.

"Lizzie, I think we should extend the caterer through dinner on Friday. Give Bertha a break," said Holly.

"Exactly what I was going to say, Holly. We'll mostly be eating out over the weekend, so it makes little sense to keep them around until we start doing our New Year's entertaining."

"I'll take the lead in getting us some reservations over that weekend," Lizzie said. "Should we include anyone else outside the family?"

"How about someone inside the family? Davante, will you be joining us over Christmas and New Years? We can make that happen from our end, if you're available."

"Well, I've taken the rest of the year off and have made no other plans. D?"

"Hey man, I haven't seen you in years. For real, we have some major catch-up to do. With Hannah's okay, I would love to see you bunk out here to see how it fits. If not, there are two very nice hotels, and the Inn we got shit faced at last night. It has beautiful rooms in a historic setting."

"Yeah," Davante said, "I don't really remember the historic part. Just the beers that kept coming."

"Which of you is the bad boy who got this round of drinking started?"

They each raised a hand.

"What is with you two? Do you do everything the same?"

"Yes," they both said together.

"How do you stand this?"

"Yeah," Davante said. "It tends to drive people crazy. But you guys are like a well-oiled machine. Can I get a ticket to that Eagles game?"

"Not a problem," Lizzie said. "Holly bought us a lower suite box for this game with the option of purchasing it for the next season. It's pretty much the family so far and there are twenty tickets. Celeste has insisted that we invite Harriett Tuttlehill, and frankly, I'm inclined to invite the family. Our usual Bridge girls will be with us, and I think Clarissa is a big fan. Samantha too. Bertha, you in?"

"Oh yeah. I'm in. I'd like to ask a favor, though."

"Anything. Just ask."

"My nephew, Booker..."

"Yes." I said. "I know Booker. He has come around during the fall harvest. Good kid. He's in. In fact, do we have room for him to bring a friend?"

"So far, even if we invite all the Tuttlehill's we'll still have almost half dozen tickets. So, we're way good."

"Bertha, you tell Booker to pick a friend, and he is in. Does he need a ride?"

"No ma'am. He's going to be seventeen, and he has to take some responsibility for the gifts he is given. I'll make sure his fare is paid, but he'll be taking the train into town."

"Good for you. You give a child responsibility, and you will raise a responsible child."

"My sister does a good job. She's not much of a cook, but she's a fine mother. And he's a fine boy. Soccer player. He makes us all proud. Going to Drexel next year."

"Oh, how nice," I asked. "What's his major?"

"Architecture. He wants to get a B. S. in architecture and get involved in the construction business with an emphasis on energy management. With all the changes being made to update buildings these days, there's room for a bright young mind. Mac."

"Yep. Bertha and I talked about it and I will do everything in my power to help the boy, along with my contacts in the business and my limited architecture background."

I gave him a look as if I did not believe what he had said. "With all you do, now you're an architect?"

"Nah. I was two-thirds through my B. Arch program when I had to quit to go to work full time. I learned a lot in that time, and have studied on my own independently, so I think I have something to offer the young man."

"Mac," I said. "I know you have tons to offer him, just like you will have much to offer that new baby of yours."

"You grab me by the heart there, Hannah. I'm glad our bundle of joy will be born into such an environment, around such kind and loving people."

"So, you'll be joining us downtown this year?"

"I don't know. I've got a big backlog, and I don't want to be any trouble. Maybe I'll drive downtown for the day sometime between Christmas and New Years."

"Nonsense. Your presence downtown changes absolutely nothing. As long as you're willing to share accommodations with Bertha... Bertha?"

It's hard to imagine Mac getting any redder, but he was our very own Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. And Bertha was aghast. "Missy, you embarrass me. It ain't proper."

"Proper? You're carrying his child. It's gonna be 2055. Get with the times. Especially in this household. If we ain't fluid, we are stuck in the mud."

"Alright, Missy. He's going to be with me and with my family until Christmas, so I can come down with him. Are we bringing an additional car to have available while we're downtown?"

I looked over at Lizzie and at Holly. And Holly spoke up, God bless her. "I think it would be great to have an extra car and an additional guard. Is Caroline available?"

Duane looked down at his supercell and poked around then spoke up to address Holly's inquiry.

"It looks like she should be. In fact, it looks like she put in for holiday duty. She has a sister, but she will be overseas and there is no other place for her to be. She'll be thrilled, and she can bring you girls down with Mac and just stay downtown. We're just gonna need to find parking. We have parking for the other two cars, don't we, Lizzie?"

"Well, thanks to Mary Barry's deed to the property, we do have two enclosed parking spots. The third could be tough. Especially considering the time of year. Holly?"

"Call Linnie. She'll know who is leaving town in her neck of the woods. We can either rent the space or trade a favor."

"Done." Lizzie said. "We gonna talk about New Years?"

"You read my mind, Liz. Who's got New Years?"

"Me and Holly again, with a lot of guidance and wisdom from Bertha. New Years is going to be much bigger. We expect a hundred people to run through the place on New Year's Day. On New Year's Eve, I want to restrict the number to twenty. And after the clock strikes twelve, I want everyone's asses out of here. Right Hol?"

Her voice still raspy, Holly agreed. "Exactly. Thursday we will host our usual buffet, with omelets and crepes of your choice, on the side. We'll also do charcuterie and a soup bar. The soup bar is always the most popular on New Year's with the parade goers passing through."

Davante stepped up to the center of the room and held his hand up and said, "Stop,"

The room went quiet. He looked around at all of us and each of us individually. "How do you people do it?"

"Do what?" I asked.

Duane looked like he was going to speak up, but Davante beat him to the punch. "I've never been to a meeting at the Bureau that was this well put together, engaging, and well played. But I'm not seeing a lot of input from my brother here."

"That's because these are not decisions I get to make. I make decisions regarding security. That's my job, regardless of my relationship with Hannah. And when I make those decisions after the first of the year, I'll make them as my own boss, for my own company."

"I don't know if I fully understand. But I feel good for you if this is what you want. And this place is calling to me. I want to meet everyone properly and see if we can enjoy each other's company. Let's give it a few days here, but ink me in for Christmas Eve to New Year's Day. And, of course, that football game."

"Great. That fills the townhouse for this holiday. Lizzie, can you give me a roll call?"

"We've got you, me, Holly, Celeste, Georgia, Georgie, Bertha and Mac, Aggie, Davante, and our bodyguard room."

"Does everyone know where they are sleeping?"

"Pretty much. Lots of doubling up. Put the kids together in that one enormous bedroom. That way, if they want company, we could always accommodate a couple more kids."

"I'm feeling like I am pushing people out of places where they should be."

"Not at all. You give the kids a couple of days to get to know you and they will insist. Trust me. They don't need much of an opportunity to attach. They'll take what they can get. And it's very important that you be with us on Christmas Eve."

He nodded his head, as if in agreement. "Well, if you're gonna put it that way, I'm in all the way, unless I get underfoot."

"Oh, I think you will come in handier than you think. Georgie is crazy about Duane. To have two of you... He'll be in heaven. Trust me, you two will be fighting to take his little hand and lead him down to Broad Street."

"Yeah, that little man on your shoulders gives you a whole new perspective. And he is the key to a Merry Christmas. It's hard to wipe the smile off my face when he is around. I could not love that kid more if he were my natural child. The girls too."

Plans solidified, Duane and I adjourned to the office while the girls got to know Davante better, as Bertha demonstrated how the magic is made, to the amazement of all. My lover and I took a few moments to get reacquainted, if you know what I mean.