Gena Showalter: The Stone Prince

“Smart-ass,” Gray grumbled. He stood over the steaming grill, flipping hamburgers and hotdogs. “Jorlan, come over here and help me with this.”

“Nay. You are doing well enough on your own, and I like where I am at the moment.”

All of Katie’s brothers—except Gray, of course—chuckled.

Jorlan massaged the base of her neck. Relaxed and in love, she sighed. Ah, married life was more satisfying than she’d ever imagined. Jorlan took care of her in every way possible. He made love to her daily, pampered her, played basketball with her and even helped around the house. He saw to her every need.

He truly was her Prince Charming.

She’d kissed his lips and set him free, but it was he who had truly saved her.

His hand slid from her neck to her belly, and a greater sense of contentment filled her. Their first child was due in less than a month. Even her dad had softened with thoughts of welcoming this first grandchild.

“Well, I for one am tired of waiting. I want to eat.” That was from Frances, who stood next to Katie’s dad.

Katie and Frances had developed a bond over the last months. Most surprising of all, however, was how Frances actually liked and accepted Jorlan for what he was, even if she didn’t understand it.

Ryan turned his attention to Frances. “You’re tired of waiting? You’re tired of waiting? Then get your little butt over there and help. It’s a woman’s job, after all.”

Frances’s eyes narrowed. The sparks between the two of them were almost visible. “I’ll tell you what a woman’s job is. It’s building her self-discipline so she doesn’t kill every man she sees.”

Ryan snorted.

Katie chuckled. Oh, great things were in store for Frances and her father; she just knew it.

“I love you, katya ,” Jorlan whispered in her ear. “And I love you.”

Life had never been better.