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“Is Shannon okay?” Willow asked.

John nodded. “Tired, but happy. She told me to sneak as many of you back as I can.”

Aiden and Angela started down the hallway. Baby Fallon was asleep in Aiden’s arms, and he tried not to wake her as they walked.

When they entered Shannon’s room, she grinned and motioned them over. She held baby Sophia against her chest, stroking her tiny back. Sophia’s dark eyes were open, and she gummed at her hand. The baby had thick, dark hair, and seemed content close to her mother. Angela leaned down to look into her face. “She’s beautiful,” she told Shannon simply.

Aiden leaned down as well, and Fallon blinked awake. She stared at the new baby for a moment, then grinned and reached out to her. The new baby, of course, didn’t respond, but she gave the biggest yawn, making the adults laugh.

“She’s beautiful,” Aiden said, softly.

Angela squeezed Shannon’s shoulder. “We’ll go home and watch the boys.”

“Marigold will probably come in, then,” Shannon said softly. “Have her bring my hospital bag, please. It’s by the bedroom doorway.”

Angela nodded. “Will do. I’ll text you.”

Zeke and Ember came in next. Ember gushed over the baby’s dark hair and her perfect pink skin. Zeke congratulated John on another job well done.

“I’m sorry we hijacked your wedding,” Shannon murmured. “I tried to wish the contractions away, but it didn’t work.”

“Are you kidding?” Ember scoffed. “I just heard about the other stuff that went on, so ending the night with a brand new baby sounds like the best option. Don’t you dare apologize.”

“Okay.” Shannon nodded dreamily, letting her eyes fall closed. Her arms stayed tight around her child, though.

Zeke didn’t blame her. They were all tired. It had definitely been a Christmas for the books. He squeezed John’s shoulder as they walked out of the room.

“Come on, w-wife,” he said, pulling Ember against him as they walked down the hallway. “I need to take you to bed and tell you how beautiful you are.”

Ember laughed lightly. “Let’s sleep for a few hours, and then you can tell me.”

“Okay,” pulling her close enough to kiss the top of her head. The crown poked his chin, so he had to adjust, kissing her temple. “I’m g-g-going to regret giving you this crown, aren’t I?”

Ember gave him an arch look. “Well, of course you are.”

Zeke shook his head, grinning, and led her from the hospital and into their new life.