by Lacey Black
As we make our way toward the patio, I seek out my children. Samuel and Freedom are dancing on the grass, swaying back and forth under the bright stars and white lights we strung in the trees. Harper and Latham are sneaking off behind the cottage, and I can’t help but smile as they disappear from sight. Jensen and Kathryn and playing with Max and Nolan, one of my brother’s great grandkids. And Marissa and Rhenn are sitting at a picnic table with Meghan and Nick.
My family is content and healthy, and that’s all I’ve ever wanted, all I’ve ever strived for. It was hard to run a business, even out of your home, and keep up with four children, but I managed. I managed alone for so many years. Now, my family is grown and creating families of their own.
And I couldn’t be happier.
Stan’s hand feels warm against my own as we approach the dessert table, and I realize something as he turns and smiles those soft, friendly hazel eyes. It’s my turn. I’ve done my part, raised my children to the best of my ability. Now, I get to live my life.
Find my happiness.
I’m ready.
The End
Thank you for reading!
If you’d like more of Emma and Orval, you’ll find them in the Summer Sisters series!
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Acknowledgments
There are so many that help in the production of a book, and I’m going to try to not forget anyone!
Regina Wamba – Thank you for this amazing cover photo. It was a pleasure working with you!
Nikki and Frankie – You have brought my characters to life on this cover – thank you!
Melissa Gill – Thank you for another gorgeous cover.
Give Me Books – Thank you for your tireless work organizing the cover reveal and release.
Kara Hildebrand – Thank you for your editing expertise.
Sandra Shipman, Jo Thompson, and Karen Hrdlicka – Thank you for beta and alpha reading, and for your help in making the storyline consistent.
Kaylee Ryan – Thank you for always being just a text or phone call away.
Holly Collins – Thank you for always believing in me.
Brenda Wright, Formatting Done Wright – Thank you for another amazing format.
My ARC team – Thank you for the early reviews and for sharing the book with the world.
Lacey’s Ladies – Thank you for your continual support and for making me laugh every day.
My family, husband, and kids – Thank you for always standing by my side.
Bloggers and Readers – Thank you, thank you, thank you!
About the Author
Lacey Black is a Midwestern girl with a passion for reading, writing, and shopping. She carries her e-reader with her everywhere she goes so she never misses an opportunity to read a few pages. Always looking for a happily ever after, Lacey is passionate about contemporary romance novels and enjoys it further when you mix in a little suspense. She resides in a small town in Illinois with her husband, two children, and a chocolate lab. Lacey loves watching NASCAR races, shooting guns, and should only consume one mixed drink because she’s a lightweight.
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Website: www.laceyblackbooks.com