TOBIAS HAD BEEN unusually quiet when Madigan had taken him to get his motorcycle after the baby shower, and as they walked into her place, he still seemed sidetracked. She wondered if her family had been too much for him. They could be overwhelming. He seemed excited about the idea of teaching self-defense, but after a dozen goodbye hugs and let me knows, maybe he was just being nice and he felt pushed.

She rubbed his back as she toed off her sandals and he untied his boots. “I hope you don’t feel pressured into talking with Diesel and Tracey.”

He set his boots aside, rising to his full height. “I don’t. I want to talk with them. I like the idea of helping women learn to protect themselves.”

“You didn’t think my family was too pushy?”

“No, angel. Your family is amazing. They’re exactly what family should be. They share and fight and love.” He gathered her in his arms. “I’ve never in my life had as much support as they gave me in just a few hours. It was a little overwhelming, but I appreciate their help, and I’m glad things are heading in a better direction with Blaine. To be honest, he shocked the hell out of me tonight.”

“He surprised me, too. I’m so glad he’s finally coming around. But if it’s not my family, then what am I picking up on? Something feels off.”

“That’s because you already know me so well.”

“Why? Did I do something?”

“Yes. You exist, which makes my life a million times better than I ever imagined.” He pressed his lips to hers.

“Tobias,” she said with as much gratitude as frustration, hugging him. “If it’s not me, what is it?”