Nicole yawned as the end credits started.

She looked over at the motley crew of children. Lori and Declan were asleep on couch, Josh was curled up on the floor. Only Kyle was awake, fascinated by the names rolling by.

"Did you like it?" Steve asked as he helped Nicole scoop up empty popcorn bowls and soda cans.

"I think so." Kyle nodded. "I liked everyone being here and not saying mean things."

"Yeah, that was good." Nicole smiled. "Now you need to go to bed. It's late."

"Good night."

"Good night, Kyle." Nicole knelt down and shook Josh awake. "Bed time."

Josh muttered and shuffled, half awake to his room.

"What time is it?" Lori yawned.

"Late, head for bed." She pushed Lori off towards her room

Steve reached out to shake Declan awake.

"Let him sleep." Nicole caught his look. "It's late and he'll be sleepy. He could get in an accident."

"And he'll be going home to a cold empty house." Steve laughed softly. "My wife is truly obsessed."

"I hope you mean that in a good way." Nicole gently pulled Declan's sneakers off and covered him with a blanket.

"A very good way." Steve switched off the lights. "Just promise me that you'll keep the strays to two."

"No promises, but I'll try."

"Fair enough."