Page 96 of Draft Pick
“Crew?”
Blue eyes that remind me so much of the sea during summertime smile back at me, filled to the brim with tears. Either she’s reminiscing about me ravaging her early this morning, or these are tears of joy rather than lust. “Yes, baby?”
“Is it true? If I walk through those doors, will my mom be inside?”
I nod. “Your dad, too.”
She doesn’t need to say anything when her kiss says it all. I know what inviting them here means to Juniper, and I’d have done anything to make it happen. Calling them and begging was the least I could do to make her smile.
To feel the gratitude through her kiss.
Juniper takes off inside, and all I can think is,how fortunate am I to have this life?
“She makes you happy, doesn’t she?” Hilary asks, following behind me into the diner.
“So much that I don’t feel like me without her.”
Hilary’s hand finds my shoulder. “You did good, Crew. She’s the perfect addition to our family. Let’s go celebrate our Doodle.”
It’s only been a matter of minutes since Addie and Juniper went inside, wasting no time at all celebrating. All of our favorite people are under one roof to revel in Addie’s success.
Gus, Tenley, and Apollo.
Kingston and Jethro.
Cal, Kodi, and Magnolia.
Bodhi and Navy.
Coach Leggins.
Grams and Gramps.
Sergio and his wife, Tanya.
Mack.
Even Mrs. Sheffield.
And Juniper’s parents, who look so much like her it’s uncanny.
All because my smart girl passed first grade with flying colors, just like we knew she would. The smile beaming from Mrs. Sheffield’s face fills me with pride. She knew she could do it, and she did.
Did the medication help? Most likely, yes.
But Addie did all the hard work.
“Daddy!” Addie yells. “Is everyone here for me?” She smiles, bouncing up and down as King tries to place a crown on the top of her head.
“Stay still, you little nugget,” he mutters, causing everyone to laugh.
Hilary and I crouch beside her, taking in all of the bright green and gold balloons and decor filling the diner. Hilary, Juniper, and Margo went above and beyond. This place looks incredible.
“Why don’t you tell everyone here what you got on your end-of-year report card?” I say, nodding to our friends and family.
Addie cuts me a look of thrill and smiles wide before screaming, “All M’s, baby!” Her tutu dress shakes as she dances in place, celebrating her win.
“And what does M stand for, Doodle?” Hilary asks.
