For so long he was scared of getting hurt, so he kept everyone at arm's length. Even his children. Goes to show you what a good woman can do to a man. That woman is an angel, and we’re all blessed to have her in our lives. I even call her Mom now, and Molly calls Tomas Dad.

I also call Chase’s parents Mom and Dad, but that wasn’t too much of a stretch. When I was younger, I was always around them. I knew I missed them, but I hadn’t realized how much until they were fully back in my life and we were planning weddings and doing normal family things. In a messed-up way, Heidi did have a small part in all of this. I’ll never let her back into our lives, even when she’s done with her stint in prison. A small part of me thanks her in a way, but I’ll never say that out loud. She’s already gotten more than she should have from this family.

Knowing Chase has started getting the turkey ready, I take my time getting myself together. I still enjoy getting dolled up from time to time for my man. I put waves in my hair and do some light makeup before I pull on a dress that shows off my small baby bump. Our first two babies were girls, and I took forever to show. That’s not the case with this little guy. I’m not even four months along, and I look almost six. He’s going to be his father's size.

“Hey, you two look pretty,” I tell my girls when I walk out of the bedroom. They’re sitting at the kitchen island eating donuts. Powdered sugar covers their hands and faces.

“It’s Thanksgiving,” Chase says before I can question the donuts, but I wasn’t going to. This kitchen is about to be in full use, and breakfast is not on that list.

“It is. How are my little turkeys?”

“Daddy braided my hair,” Ella says. “He’s getting as good as you, Mom.”

“I think he’s been watching YouTube videos or something. Trying to give me a run for my money.”

“I brushed mine” is all Elsa mutters. She’s not a morning person.

“Well, it’s a bit wild, but that suits you,” I tease my oldest.

“I’ll fix it later.” She shoves a donut into her mouth.

“Pull it back, honey, if you want to help us in the kitchen today.”

“Nope, she’s with us,” Chase says.

“Football!” Elsa shouts, perking up instantly.

Elsa and Ella start bickering over football. Ella thinks it’s stupid and lists her reasons while Elsa defends her favorite sport.

“Why do you do this to me?” Chase comes up behind me, brushing my hair off one shoulder. He kisses my neck.