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"Are you sure you're okay to do this?" I ask.
Kate rubs her swollen stomach and rolls her eyes. "I'm pregnant, not an invalid, and these things practically plan themselves."
I raise a brow and remind her that she's really, really pregnant, and this might not be the best time to host a charity function. Kate huffs and throws a French fry at my head. I swipe it into the trash bin and lean back in my chair.
"So, you're thinking a masquerade?"
She nods. "A winter masquerade. Fancy dresses, suits, and masks of course. Carmen is already putting together ideas for a five-course meal and the venue we used for the heroes versus villains banquet."
I smile because that night is still one of my favorite memories with you even though I almost died. "You've been busy. How'd you know I'd sign off on all this?"
Kate shrugs. "Ever since you got married, you're easy to sway. I'll be busy with the baby, so this will be the last benefit we throw for a few months. I want it to count."
"Okay. Let's do it."
The rest of the workday is spent reviewing plans, designing invitations, and supplying Kate with plenty of food. She's like a black hole at this point.
I come home to find you grading papers. You've got your little star stickers, a red pen, a glass of wine, and Chester at your side.
"Hey, baby," I greet and drop a kiss on your lips.
"Hi! How was work?"
You set your work aside and give me your full attention while I tell you about Kate'splans for the benefit.
You're excited for a chance to play dress up and offer to help if Kate needs it.
I offer to cook dinner while you finish working and leave you to it.
"I can take a break and help." You stand and stretch your back. "I'm feeling garlic shrimp linguini. What do you think?"
Never one to turn down anything with shrimp, I agree and run upstairs to change out of my suit while you get everything started.
By the time I join you, the shrimp is thawing in the sink, and you're chopping a mountain of garlic.
"Put me to work."
It doesn't take long for dinner to come together. We sit at the island and make plans for the three-day weekend.
"Do you want to head to the outlets?" I ask, and you make a face.
"Not really. What do you think about kidnapping Jasper and making a trip to Universal?"
"I would love to, but Kate mentioned that Alice is staying with them for a bit. Tyler has chicken pox."
"I'm sure we can handle two seven-year-olds in a theme park."
"Famous last words." I chuckle darkly.
• • •
Our impromptu mini-vacation is a huge success. The weather cooperates, the kids are great for us, and the park isn't that busy.
Our days are busy running after Alice and Jasper, and nights are spent recuperating.
When we get home, you admit that you liked pretending that the four of us were a family. I agree, and we decide to knock a few months off our plans and start trying for a baby.