Pregnant by the Texan(89)

                “Just a baby. I can’t tell you.” His voice had gotten deep and she realized he was emotional about the baby he’d lost. She hugged him and rose up to kiss him, tasting a salty tear. His hurt caused her heart to ache. “Aaron, I’m so glad about this baby. And we can have more.”

                He pulled her down to kiss her hard. When he released her, she saw he had a better grip on his emotions. “For a tough, military-type guy, you’re very tenderhearted,” she said.

                “I am thrilled beyond words to be a dad. That’s why I got those necklaces for you. I love you, Stella.”

                “I love you,” she responded.

                “Now let’s set a date for a wedding. How about a wedding between Christmas and New Year’s? That’s a quiet time. January won’t be.”

                “You’re right. I’d say a very quiet wedding after Christmas. Can you do that, Mr. Nichols?”

                “I can. Want to fly to Dallas next week to get a wedding dress from Cecilia? That’ll be a Christmas present to you.”

                She smiled. “Your love is my Christmas present. Your love, your baby, this fabulous ring. Aaron, I love you with all my heart. I give you my love for Christmas.” Joy filled her while she looked into his brown eyes.

                “Merry, merry Christmas, darling,” he said as he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close to kiss her.

                Happiness filled her heart and after a moment she looked up at him. “Your love is the best Christmas gift possible.” She felt joyous to be in Aaron’s strong arms and to know she had his love always.