TWO FIREMEN AND A LADY

Heroes of Trasco County 2

Tracey Steinbach

Erotic Romance

Secret Cravings Publishing

www.secretcravingspublishing.com

Smashwords Edition

Copyright 2013 © Tracey Steinbach

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A Secret Cravings Publishing Book

Erotic Romance

Two Fireman and a Lady

Copyright © 2013 Tracey Steinbach

E-book ISBN: 978-1-61885-843-6

First E-book Publication: August 2013

Cover design by Dawné Dominique

Edited by Leslie Fish

Proofread by Laurie White

All cover art and logo copyright © 2013 by Secret Cravings Publishing

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All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

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DEDICATION

For Erin, Thank you for your support and encouragement!

For Kaylyn, Thank you for your excitement with every new paragraph! It’s a pleasure to have you as one of my betas.

For Allison, I can’t tell you how much your encouragement means to me. I love you, my friend!

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*Trouble With a Cowboy, a western, erotic romance:

Can some slashed tires and an ornery bull bring two hard-headed people together for some fun in the sun and a little more?

**Forget Me Not, paranormal erotic romance:

A war is brewing, a war that could destroy an entire vampire race if left unchecked, and Julian Marino has been requested to participate in it.  He stops his search for a long time friend to go home and discovers there is more at stake than just his wants.

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TWO FIREMEN AND A LADY

Heroes of Trasco County 2

Tracey Steinbach

Copyright © 2013

Chapter One

Mac looked at the calendar and shook his head. It was hard to believe it that in one week he’d be celebrating his fifth year as a firefighter. And a month from now him and his wife, Grace, would be celebrating their third wedding anniversary. How time flew.

“What’s up, buddy?” Travis asked, walking up behind Mac. Mac felt Travis’s hand land on his shoulder.

“Hey.” Mac turned to look at Travis. “Can I get you to do me a favor?”

Travis gave Mac a smirk. “It’ll cost ya.”

Mac nodded, not smiling back. “It always does. Watch it, or I’ll sic Gracey on you.”

“Promises, promises. Your wife is smokin’, buddy. One of these days I’m gonna steal her away.” Travis lost his smirk when Mac didn’t laugh, and cocked his head to the side. “Okay. What’s up?”

“Gracey has a doctor’s appointment tomorrow, and I’m scheduled for a twenty-four. Can you cover me for a couple hours so I can go with her?” Mac ran his hand over his head. It was days like this he was glad he kept his blonde hair short or else he would have ripped it all out by now.

“Sure, Mac. I can cover. You getting her results back tomorrow?”

Mac nodded and blew out a breath. “Yeah. I’m hoping the news is good, but we’ve been trying for two years and still no baby. She’s starting to get pretty down. Every month it’s worse. I don’t know what to do for her, so I thought I’d go with her to hold her hand at the doctor's.”

Travis slapped Mac on the back. “You’re a good man, Mac. And Gracey is the sweetest. It’ll happen soon. But if there’s anything else I can do, let me know. I’d do anything for either of you.”

“Thanks. Hey, you off tonight?” Mac asked, thinking.

“Yeah, I’m off for the next forty-eight before I go back to back twenty-fours. Why?” Travis started to smirk. “What are you cooking up in that warped mind of yours?”

Mac smiled for the first time since Travis had walked up. “Do you want to come over for dinner tonight? I’ll cook some steaks on the grill, and we'll do our damnedest to put a smile on my wife’s face.”

Travis nodded, grinning and rubbing his hand over his sculpted abs. “You know me. I never turn down free food or a chance to flirt with Gracey.” He winked at Mac then stepped away quickly. “What time do you want me? And should I bring whipped cream or chocolate syrup?”

Mac rolled his eyes. “You know Gracey. Bring the chocolate.” He started to walk away. “And bring the beer. You drank all of mine last time.” He chuckled when he saw Travis flip him off.

* * * *

Grace was happy when Mac told her Travis was coming and they were cooking out. Travis could always bring a smile to her face, even when she was pissed at him for something stupid he'd talked Mac into doing. Travis was a good man. The three of them had been friends for years. Travis had stood up for Mac when he and Grace had married. Late at night, she had woken up more than once, hot and wet from dreaming about Mac and Travis taking her together. They’d done it one time, years ago. Too much alcohol had been involved.

“Knock, knock…,” came a cheerful voice from the kitchen doorway.

Grace turned and smiled. “Come in.” She eyed the bag in his hand and noticed the case of beer under his arm. “Whatcha got in the bag?”

Travis grinned, walking over to drop a kiss on her cheek. “A present for my favorite lady.”

Grace watched as he kept walking, straight to the fridge. He opened the door and shoved the beer inside. Then he half-turned towards Grace and pulled her prize from the bag, showing her before putting it on a shelf and closing the door.

Grace laughed. “What’s that for, or don’t I want to know?” She turned back to the salad she was throwing together.

Travis came over to lean against the counter beside her. He feigned shock, putting his hands over his heart. “Why, Gracey! I’m surprised at you. You make it sound like I’m up to no good.” He winked at her.

“You forget how long I’ve known you. I know you’re up to no good.” She laughed.

* * * *

Mac came in from the patio, and spotted Travis. “You made it! Cool. I just lit the grill.” He walked to the refrigerator and opened the door. “Good man. Brought the beer, just like I told you.” Mac paused before letting out a curse. “Jesus Christ.” He chuckled, shaking his head and shutting the fridge door.

Travis followed Mac back out to the patio. “Man, you know I had to bring it.” He chuckled.

Mac threw him a grin over his shoulder. “I wouldn’t expect anything less from you, Travis.” He slapped the steaks on the grill and closed the lid. “Let’s park our asses while the steaks cook.” He moved over to the picnic table and straddled one of the seats. It took him a minute to realize that Travis was talking to him. “Sorry, man. What was that?”

“Wasn’t important. What had you so deep in thought a minute ago? You know, the doc tomorrow is going to give you good news, and Gracey will be back to her ornery self in no time.” Travis took a pull from his beer.

“I wasn’t thinking about that… Okay, I was, sort of. I have an idea to get her out of her mood. I just don’t know if I should.” He shot a look at Travis after the cryptic answer.

Travis looked at him for a long moment, trying to figure out what Mac was up to. “Okay, buddy. Marriage has obviously made your brain go soft. I have no idea what that meant.”

Mac shook his head. “I know.” He took his own pull on his beer. The internal debate on whether to ask Travis was a fierce one. “How do you feel about staying over tonight?”

Travis’s brows drew down as he stared at Mac. Surely, he wasn’t… Hell, he was. Travis picked up his beer and chugged the rest down. “Are you serious? Cause if you’re not, this could go sideways in a fucking hurry, Mac.”

Mac blew out a breath and nodded. “I’m serious. It’s not like we haven’t done it before, Travis. She’d never ask for it, but you know how much she loved it last time.”

Travis sat there and watched Mac. Shaking his head, he pushed up from the picnic table and strode inside for another beer. Grace gave him a questioning look when he walked past her, but he flashed a smile. He went back out to sit with Mac. “Well, I would hate for that chocolate syrup to go to waste. What’s the plan?”

Mac grinned and leaned in to whisper. “We’re going to get my wife drunk, and then we are going to seduce her.”

* * * *

Dinner went off without a hitch. Travis acted like his usual crazy self, making Grace laugh until she was holding her sides. Mac kept Grace’s beers coming until her cheeks took on a rosy glow. “Gracey, sweetheart, why don’t you come sit on my lap?” Mac suggested.

Grace smiled and got to her feet. She didn’t sway, but her steps were careful. She’d had enough to drink. They wanted her mellow, not passing out. She walked over and slid onto Mac’s lap, leaning back against his chest. “Oh, I like this seat much better,” she grinned.

Mac winked over at Travis before turning his head to kiss Grace’s neck. “That’s my girl.” His voice rumbled in her ear. His cock was already starting to fill with the knowledge of what they were all about to do. He wouldn’t admit it to Grace, but he enjoyed Travis in their bed as much as she did. He wasn’t completely immune to how good-looking the man was. Mac slid his hands around Grace’s waist and under her shirt. When she sighed, he slid his hands higher to cup her breasts.

Travis watched Mac and Grace from the corner of his eye while he nursed the warm beer in his hand. His cock had twitched in anticipation when he heard Mac call Grace over. Seeing Mac’s hands in Grace’s shirt, cupping the firm breasts underneath, had it hard in seconds.

Grace moaned and Travis clenched his jaw. Slowly, he turned his head to see what was happening beside him. He saw Mac with his tongue shoved in Grace’s mouth while his hands massaged her now unbound breasts. Travis shifted in his seat. Fuck, they were hot.

Travis set his beer on the patio beside his chair, and stood up. Slowly, quietly, he moved to stand in front of Mac and Grace. He watched as Mac’s knees pushed Grace’s legs apart. The scent of Grace’s arousal drifted up to him on the light breeze. He knelt in front of her, slowly starting to push her denim skirt higher on her legs. His large hands slid up the insides of Grace’s thighs. Her skin was soft, smooth, like silk. Travis moved in, closer. His head lowered to place an open-mouthed kiss midway up Grace’s leg. She gave a start, almost pulling away from Mac’s kiss. “Shhhhhh…” Travis heard Mac over the buzzing in his ears. Grace relaxed again and Travis started a trail of kisses up the inside of Grace’s thigh. When he came to the crease between her legs, he used his tongue to make her squirm. He’d never forgotten over the years what made Grace crazy.

Travis gripped the edge of Grace’s panties in his teeth and yanked them away from her wet pussy. He smiled against her when she gasped. His tongue found its way to her swollen folds and started the journey from core to clit. When she moaned, he began lapping at her in earnest. He was on a mission now. His tongue thrust into her core, flicking back and forth quickly. His lips wrapped around her clit and started to suck. He felt her fingers fist in his hair as he lashed her hard nub with the tip of his tongue.

Travis flicked his eyes upward. Grace’s head was rolling back and forth on Mac’s shoulder. Mac had raised Grace’s shirt up to bare her breasts. Between the light breeze and the way Mac’s fingers were working her nipples, the peaks were hard as marbles, straining for more. His gaze caught Mac’s. Travis had to reach down and squeeze the erection in his pants because of the heated look Mac was giving him. Mac’s face was flushed now, and Travis knew he was as hard as Travis was.

Travis lifted one hand from Grace’s leg and moved it under her ass to cup Mac in his hand through Mac’s jeans. He used the heel of his hand to massage the bulge in Mac’s pants. Mac’s head fell back and he groaned. Oh, yeah—he knew what Mac liked, too. His hand slid up and down Mac’s cock while he laved and sucked at Grace’s pussy. When Grace started to tremble and whimper, Travis knew she was close. He focused all his attention on her, one goal in mind—to make her go off like a rocket.

Chapter Two

Grace didn’t know how she’d ended up in this situation. She knew she’d been on her way to becoming pleasantly tipsy when Mac called her over to sit on his lap. He’d been playing with her breasts, making her warmer by the second. When he kissed her, she knew she was in trouble. Mac’s kiss has always had the ability to fog her mind.

Somehow, she’d gone from getting loved by her husband to being tag-teamed by Mac and Travis, both. She moaned again. Travis had a wicked tongue. She felt Travis’s hand under her ass and she knew what he was doing. The mental picture made her pussy flood. In her dreams, she always saw the three of them loving whole-heartedly, equally.

Grace felt Mac’s groan against her back. She felt her own body rising toward orgasm. Her thighs were starting to tremble and she whimpered. Travis’s mouth picked up the pace and her back bowed. One more lick from Travis and she shattered, screaming their names into the night sky.

* * * *

Mac felt Grace tense, and then she was screaming out her orgasm. He wanted in on this. The outside patio was not the place to make that happen, so he surged to his feet with Grace in his arms, almost knocking Travis on his ass. He started for the sliding glass doors, glancing over his shoulder at Travis. Travis had pushed to his feet and was hot on his heels.

Mac heard Travis brush by him and then open the bedroom door. Mac laid Grace on the bed, leaning down to kiss her. When he stood back up and turned, Travis was right there beside him, his shirt already removed. Mac’s eyes roamed over the sculpted chest in front of him. A light sheen of sweat covered the skin. Mac inhaled, deeply, and could smell the masculine musk of Travis. He licked his lips and opened his mouth to speak, but Travis’s mouth was covering his before the first word could escape. Mac would never give up kissing Grace, yet kissing Travis was just as intoxicating. Where Grace was soft and flirty with her kisses, Travis was hard and rough. He could feel Travis’s teeth as well as his lips and tongue when he kissed Travis back.

The sound of a feminine moan had Mac pulling back from Travis to look down at the bed. Grace had been watching them kiss. Her cheeks were flushed, her chest heaving. Mac could see her hands fisting and unfisting the blanket while her ass was sliding back and forth on the bed. Mac grinned. His wife was getting even more aroused watching Travis and him together.

Mac yanked his shirt over his head while he watched Travis peeling himself out of his jeans. Travis handed him a condom packet from his pocket and waited for him to finish undressing. Mac tore the wrapper open and palmed the latex disk. With a steady, tight grip, Mac sheathed Travis to the base. Travis was breathing between clenched teeth by the time Mac finished putting the condom on. Just to torture him a bit more, Mac gave his cock two extra strokes before he turned toward the bed. Travis walked around the bed and mirrored him on the other side. Mac grinned when he saw Grace’s eyes widen. Her breath hitched in her chest, and the sound was not of fear or distress. He could tell by the way her nipples were drawn tight and her lips were parted that she was excited. Mac looked across the bed at Travis and nodded.

Simultaneously, their heads lowered to take a nipple each in their mouths. They felt Grace’s back arch under them. As they gave her breasts attention, Mac and Travis worked on removing Grace’s clothes. Tongues and teeth worked the stiff peaks until they were red and swollen and Grace was writhing.

Mac and Travis each gripped Grace’s knees. They pulled her legs apart, spreading her open. Grace’s hips bucked underneath them, and they grinned at each other. Each one slid their hand up the inside of Grace’s thighs. As if the dance had been scripted, one rubbed her clit while the other thrust a finger inside her. They played like that for a few minutes, then switched.

Travis watched as Mac moved between Grace’s legs. Mac started to rock, sliding his cock through Grace’s wet folds. Mac pulled back and surged forward, burying himself inside Grace. Grace wailed, lifting her legs and wrapping them around Mac’s waist. Travis slid his tongue from her breast, up her chest and throat and plunged it into her mouth. He kissed her, hard, thrusting his tongue inside her mouth to taste all of her.

Travis heard Grace whimper and Mac groaning. He knew their end was coming, so he lifted his head to watch. Mac’s head was thrown back, the cords of his neck bulging. Grace’s head had started thrashing back and forth on the pillow. Travis could see her fingers digging into Mac’s shoulders.

As soon as Mac pulled out, Travis was there to replace him. No fancy moves, no finesse: he thrust his cock into Grace, hard. His hips pistoned fast and short, so that the head of his cock rubbed over her g-spot with every pass. When he felt her pussy start to spasm, he lengthened the strokes, shoving his cock in to the hilt. Grace screamed in orgasm, shaking under him. Travis thrust once, twice, and the third time, he exploded with his own release.

The three of them lay on the bed, spent and sated. Grace was sandwiched between the two men. Travis forced himself to move. When he stood up to go to the bathroom, he noticed that the condom was empty. With a sinking feeling, he looked at Mac and Grace on the bed. “Um, guys? Small problem. I think the condom broke.”

Mac and Grace exchanged a look, but it was Mac that spoke. “We know you’re clean, man. Get rid of that thing and come back to bed.”

Travis hesitated for a half a second and went to dispose of the condom. He returned to the bedroom and crawled back in on the other side of Grace, reached down the bed and gripped the comforter to draw it up over them.

He smiled, seeing that Grace was fast asleep and looking more relaxed than he’d seen her in weeks. He looked across the bed at Mac. Mac was staring down at Grace with love clear on his face. Travis watched as Mac lifted his hand to brush Grace’s hair back from her sweaty face.

Mac looked away from Grace to shake his head at Travis. “Thank you,” he smiled at Travis. “Let’s get some sleep. We have a long week ahead of us.”

“Right.”

Travis watched as Mac settled in beside his wife. It didn’t take long for Mac’s eyes to drift closed. Travis remained awake for a while after he heard Mac start to snore softly. His thoughts were in turmoil, thoughts that he would never be able to voice.

* * * *

Mac shut his locker, stuffing his wallet into his back pocket. It was almost time to pick Grace up, and Travis was due to relieve him any minute. His thoughts drifted to the sight that had met him that morning. He’d gotten up to shower, leaving Grace and Travis still in bed. He’d wanted to linger, wrapped around his wife, but duty called. He’d come back into the bedroom, towel around his waist. Grace was sprawled across the sheets, on his side of the bed with her hands folded under her cheek. Travis was lying on his side, his arm thrown across Grace’s waist. He knew it was odd, but he didn’t feel any jealousy or resentment. He just wanted to crawl back into bed with them.

Mac checked the time again, and started to walk toward the front of the fire station. His stomach churned with nerves and hope for what the doctor would tell him and Grace. His fingers, his toes, hell, even his eyes were crossed that the news would be good.

Mac saw Travis walking into the station, looking as serious as Mac had ever seen him. “Hey.” Mac greeted him.

Mac watched as a smile transformed Travis’s face. “Hi, Mac.” The two men shook hands, and then Travis pulled Mac into a one-armed hug. “Grace is outside. I brought her with me. There wasn’t any sense in you running all the way home to get her when I was coming here.”

“Thanks, Travis.” He took a step back and looked toward the door before meeting Travis’s gaze again. “How is she this morning?”

“She was good when she woke up, but as the morning's worn on, she’s gotten more anxious. I really hope the doctor has good news for you, Mac.” Travis put his hand on Mac’s shoulder and squeezed.

Mac nodded his thanks. “I’ll let you know. I better get out there.” Mac started for the door and his wife.

Travis watched Mac leave, and sent up a silent prayer. Please, if you’re listening, give them good news. They’re damn good people and they deserve a family.

* * * *

Mac found Grace leaning against the bed of his truck. When she saw him approaching, a smile lit up her face. She waited until he was standing in front of her before leaning up and kissing him. “Quiet morning?” she asked him.

“Yeah, it was. Thank God.” Mac slid his arm around her waist and walked her around the truck to the passenger door. He opened the door for her and gave her a boost inside, then made his way back to the driver’s side and climbed in behind the wheel. He gave his wife a once over and saw the anxiousness she was trying to hide. That was his Gracey, always trying to make everyone else feel better instead of taking care of her.

“That’s good,” she replied. She turned her face to look out the side window while he drove them to the doctor’s office.

“Grace, it’ll be okay. You’ll see,” Mac insisted, conviction strong in his voice.

“I know it will be, Mac.” She shot him a smile and turned back toward the window.

Mac pulled his truck into the parking lot, and found a space to park. He climbed from the truck and went around to help Grace out. Hand in hand, they walked into the building.

Grace’s doctor’s office was on the second floor, so they headed straight for the elevators. Mac took his hand from Grace’s and slid his arm around her shoulders, holding her against his side. Despite her assurance, he was worried. He knew this meant a great deal to her. It meant a great deal to them both.

They exited the elevator, and Grace went to the window to sign in. The room was filled with women in various stages of pregnancy. He noticed one woman that looked beyond ready to deliver, and smiled at her. She sat rubbing small circles over her belly, and smiled back. He pictured Grace looking like that and his smile grew. He knew she would glow with every stage. He’d never be able to keep his hands off of her.

Mac found two empty seats off to the side of the waiting room, and sat down to wait for Grace to join him. He saw her coming toward him and gave her his best charming smile. She grinned back at him and sat down. “You are such a flirt.” She shook her head in amusement.

Mac raised an eyebrow and leaned in to kiss her cheek. “I can’t help myself. Are you complaining?”

“Of course I’m not.”

“Good. Now, tell me about your morning.” He figured he could distract her from the waiting, and it would help her to relax some.

“Not much to tell. I took a shower, ate some granola and drank a mug of tea. Then I started a load of laundry and started to clean up the kitchen. I need to finish when I get home.”

“I’m sorry you got stuck with doing it all by yourself.”

Grace’s shoulder lifted slightly in a shrug. “It wasn’t that bad. Travis gathered the trash from outside before we left, and he took the garbage out. I only have to wash the dishes and wipe everything down.”

Mac felt something tug at him, but shook it off. “Well, it’s good that he made himself useful.” He sat back in his chair and glanced around the room.

Grace was called in a short time later, and in back they went. Instead of going to an exam room, they were ushered into the doctor’s office. They sat across the desk from the woman that could change their lives today, and Mac reached for Grace’s hand. He linked their fingers together and gave her hand a squeeze.

The doctor’s face didn’t look grim, but the lack of happiness told Mac that the news probably wasn’t good. “Mac, Grace, I’ve run every test there is, and the good news is that there isn’t anything physically wrong with either of you. I see no reason why you haven’t been able to conceive. I have a few suggestions, and then I’d like to reexamine Grace in about six weeks.”

Mac looked over at Grace and smiled. “See?” He turned back to the doctor and tilted his head. “What suggestions do you have?”

“Well, first I’d like for you to refrain from any sexual intercourse for two weeks.” She checked the file in front of her, and then pointed to the calendar on her desk. “Grace’s optimum fertility, going by her cycle, will start then; the concentration of sperm in your ejaculate will be higher if you refrain. That should increase your chances of conceiving. Grace, I’d also like you to give up caffeine and alcohol, completely. I’d also like for you to eliminate processed foods from your diet, if that’s possible.”

Grace nodded. “No problem. I can do that.” She turned toward Mac and grinned. “More bunny food for you. If you want fast food, you’ll have to eat it on shift.”

Mac winked at her. “If you can give up French fries, I can too.”

The doctor chuckled and sat back in her chair, glancing between the two of them. “We’ll start with a few minor lifestyle changes and see if we get any results. I’d rather not start Grace on any fertility drugs until we’ve exhausted all our natural options.”

Mac stood up and reached across to shake the doctor’s hand. “Thank you for taking the time to see us today.”

Grace stood up, also and smiled at the doctor. “Yes, thank you.”

Mac and Grace left the doctor’s office. He helped her into the truck and climbed into the driver’s seat. “Do you need to stop anywhere before I take you home?”

“No, I can run out to the store later.” She looked at him with humor in her eyes and a smirk on her lips. “You know, this means you can’t stroke off in the shower, right?”

Mac’s eyes widened and he gave her an innocent look. “I don’t stroke off in the shower. I can’t imagine why you’d accuse me of such a thing.”

Grace laughed and nodded at him. “Oh yeah, not you, Mr. Horny.”

Mac cleared his throat and turned his focus to driving. “I’m too old for that shit.”

“You lie like a rug.”

Mac couldn’t contain his laughter any longer. “All right, all right. Yes, I did understand that.” He glanced over to give her a playful leer. “I don’t know how I’m going to keep my hands off of you, though. Do you have any of those matronly nightgowns that cover you from neck to ankle?”

Grace was cracking up, now. “No, I don’t. Do you have any pajamas that you're willing to wear to bed?”

Mac shook his head. “I’m not wearing pajamas to bed.”

“And I’m not wearing a nightgown. If I have to suffer with keeping my hands to myself, you do too.”

“Gracey, you’re an evil woman.”

They teased and laughed the rest of the way home. Mac kissed Grace before she climbed out of the truck, and he swore. She’d put a little extra sexy into that kiss, or maybe it was just knowing that he couldn’t touch her for two weeks that made him feel that way.

After he dropped Grace at the house, Mac drove back to the fire station. He thought over what the doctor had said, and the news had been good. Nothing physically wrong with either of them was good news. He hoped that the eating healthier and the less frequent sex would be enough to get Gracey pregnant. He’d done some research on fertility drugs and some of them sounded dangerous—not to mention he didn’t think he was ready for Gracey to birth quintuplets.

He parked in his usual spot and walked inside. Travis was waiting for him.

“Well? What did the doctor say? Are you and Gracey okay? What are they doing to help you?”

Travis’s questions came one right after the other, so Mac answered them in the order he’d asked. “There's nothing wrong with either of us, so that’s good news. We’re going to do some minor lifestyle changes and see if that helps. She didn’t want to start Gracey on fertility drugs right away until all the natural options have been tried.”

“Lifestyle changes? What does that mean?” Travis’s eyes widened. “You’re not giving up being a firefighter, are you?”

“No, no. Nothing like that. We’re going to start eating healthier, and Gracey has to give up caffeine and alcohol.” Mac shrugged as if it was no big deal, but he was already craving a greasy cheeseburger and fries. Six weeks without fast food; how would he survive?

“Oh, well, that’s not so bad.” Travis followed Mac as he strode toward the locker room. Mac needed to get out of his street clothes and into his uniform.

“Says you who doesn’t have to give up fast food.”

Mac felt Travis’s breath fan his ear as he whispered, “I’ll sneak you a Happy Meal.”

“You're a good friend, Travis.” Mac nodded sagely, and yanked his shirt over his head.

* * * *

You’re a good friend, Travis. Those words echoed through Travis’s mind throughout the day. With each echo, his stomach dropped a little further. One of these days he’d learn to stop feeling. He knew he should be happy with that, but if he was completely honest, he knew he wasn’t. But there wasn’t a damn thing he could do about it.

Travis sat on his couch and sucked on his beer. He laid his head back on the couch, closed his eyes and thought about the night with Mac and Grace. His cock twitched at the memory. He lifted his head and opened one eye to scowl at his crotch. “I don’t know what you’re so happy about. It’s not like it will happen again.” He took a slug of his beer and shook his head. “No wonder guys refer to their cocks as Mr. Happy. It doesn’t take much to make you perk up.”

Travis decided he needed a woman. He ran through the mental list of single women he knew, and not one of them piqued his interest. He should go out, meet some new people. He couldn’t spend his life waiting around for someone to just fall into his lap. He wanted a family at some point—a couple kids, a son to play ball with, or a daughter to take fishing.

Travis picked up the remote for the television and started to flip through the channels. He found a Mariners game and dropped the remote on the couch beside him. His feet stretched out in front of him to rest on the coffee table. Yeah, Friday night he was off. He’d go to the sports bar in town and see if he could meet some new people—and by people, he meant women.

* * * *

Mac cleaned up the kitchen at the station. This week he was on kitchen detail, and since the only cooking he did was grilling, he was on cleanup. While the other men had been eating baked chicken and noodles, Mac had been chowing on a grilled chicken salad. This eating healthier shit was going to kill him.

The last dish was loaded into the dishwasher and the last crumb was swept up. Mac headed for the lounge area of the fire station to kick back and watch the baseball game. The Mariners were playing tonight, and he should be just in time to catch the first inning.

Hank, the other fireman on shift that night, had the game turned on and occupied the recliner. That left the couch for Mac. He stretched out and settled in to watch the game. His eyes started to sag as the game progressed. He started to dream.

Mac climbed from his truck and shut the door. He walked up to the front door and let himself inside. Gracey came from the kitchen, grinning and rubbing her stomach. Mac met her in the doorway and leaned down to kiss the mound of their baby. Gracey giggled and ran her hand over the back of his head before he straightened to give her a kiss on the lips.

Travis walked up behind Grace and slid his arms around her waist, running his hands over her stomach. He kissed the side of her neck and leaned forward to kiss Mac. Mac slapped his shoulder and moved around them into the kitchen.

Mac’s eyes blinked open. The roar of the crowd on the television and Hank’s yelling had awakened him from his nap. He stretched and sat up. “You want anything from the kitchen, Hank? I’m getting me something to drink.”

“Sure. Thanks.” Hank’s attention turned back to the game.

Mac went to the kitchen and filled two glasses with soda. He peeked around the kitchen, saw no one, and reached into the cupboard. He found the stash of chocolate chip cookies on the middle shelf and took two out. He popped them into his mouth and chewed, quickly and guiltily. He had been reduced to sneaking cookies! He dropped his chin to his chest and shook his head. The things he did for his wife!

Chapter Three

Mac pulled into the driveway and climbed from his truck. He let himself into the house through the kitchen door while he tried to be quiet. Grace should be still in bed, and he was looking forward to climbing in with her. It had been two weeks since their doctor’s appointment, and they should have the green light for a little early morning loving before they started the day.

He found a vase in the cupboard and filled it halfway with water. He dropped the bouquet of wildflowers into the vase, and then set it on the window ledge. He bent down and started pulling his shoes off, walked toward the bedroom in his sock-covered feet, and started stripping his clothes off. He had his shirt and socks in his hand and his pants unfastened by the time he reached the door. He opened the door as quietly as he could, and peeked inside. Grace was lying on her stomach, stretched diagonally across the bed. The sheet was tangled around her waist, leaving the skin of her back bare.

Mac slipped into the bedroom and shut the door. He finished stripping all his clothes off and left them in a pile on the chair in the corner. He climbed into the bed beside her and let his fingertips skim down her spine. Gooseflesh broke out over her skin, and she stirred. Mac replaced his fingers with his lips, and started laying open-mouthed kisses over the soft skin of her back. A soft moan rumbled through Grace before he heard her gasp. She was definitely awake now. “Good morning, sweetheart,” Mac whispered against her skin.

“Mmmm…Mac, what are you doing?” Her voice was still sleepy.

“Now, Gracey, it hasn’t been that long,” he teased. Her legs had shifted, and he moved closer so that the front of his body was pressed against her side. His cock was already hard, knowing soon he would be inside the hot, wet pussy of his beautiful wife.

Grace rolled over onto her back and opened her eyes to smile at Mac. Her eyes were soft with sleep, and arousal was starting to darken them. She lifted her hand and ran it over Mac’s bicep in a loving caress. Mac’s head lowered to drop soft kisses over her shoulder and collarbone. His lips traveled downward until he reached the upper slope of her breast. He nibbled his way down to the hard nipple begging for his mouth.

He wrapped his lips around the hard peak and flicked the tip with his tongue. Grace gasped and arched under him. Her hand gripped his bicep, digging her nails in. He used his teeth and tongue to nip and suck her nipple, and then he moved to the other breast. He gave it the same attention while she writhed and moaned under him.

His hand skimmed down her belly, to find she wasn’t wearing panties. He lifted his head to give her a wolfish grin. “Gracey, were you waiting for me?”

Grace only laughed knowingly.

Mac moved between Grace’s legs and placed biting kisses over her chest and belly. He slid down her body to her neatly trimmed pussy. The intimate flesh was swollen and glistening, a treat he couldn’t resist even if he’d wanted to. He dipped his head down and started to feast. He licked and sucked and nibbled until Grace was begging. His tongue plunged into her pussy and her hips tried to shoot off the bed. He held her down and thrust his tongue in and out of her.

Mac loved the sounds coming from Grace. She was enjoying his touch as much as he was enjoying touching her. Every time they made love was more intense than the last.

Mac replaced his tongue with his fingers and moved his mouth to her clit. Enough teasing, it was time to bring her, so he could get inside her. His tongue flicked rapidly at her clit as his fingers darted back and forth inside her pussy. When he felt her pussy start to spasm, he bit down. Grace screamed as she came bucking.

When Grace’s body calmed from her orgasm, Mac moved above her. In one hard thrust, he buried himself inside her all the way. Bracing his hands on either side if her head, his hips pumped, driving his cock inside her over and over. Her legs lifted to wrap around his waist, taking him deeper inside her. He looked down and focused on watching her face. Her cheeks were rosy, and her lips were parted in invitation. Mac accepted the invitation, and sealed his mouth over hers. He shared the taste of her pleasure with her as he kissed her, passionately.

His sac started to draw up, and his cock throbbed for release. He pulled his mouth from hers and snapped his hips forward. The faster and the harder he moved, the more her breathing increased. He knew she was getting close to coming again, so he reached down and put his hand on her ass, lifting her higher. She whimpered and he knew he’d found the spot. She came screaming, again. Mac let the pulsing of her pussy and the sounds of her pleasure bring him to his own release. He groaned with the force of it.

Finally Mac rolled off of Grace and pulled her into his arms. He could hear her panting and feel the rapidity of her heart pounding. His heart was beating the same tattoo in his own chest. He kissed her forehead and tightened his arms around her. “I love you, Gracey.”

“I love you, Mac.” Her soft voice trailed off into a sigh. She’d nap for a little while now, and then maybe he could talk her into going out for breakfast.

* * * *

Friday night had been a bust. Travis hadn’t met one woman that interested him in the least. By the end of the night, he’d had a pocketful of phone numbers but he couldn’t have told anyone which girl went with which name. He was discouraged and disgusted.

Saturday night he hadn’t wanted to even make the effort, but the quietness of the house had driven him out. He’d ended up at a different bar than Friday night, but the results hadn’t been much better. He did meet one nice woman, whose phone number he’d gotten on the way out. They were supposed to get together for dinner on his next night off. Travis wasn’t overjoyed, but he was determined to keep an open mind.

Sunday morning, he’d reported to the fire station as Mac had been leaving. They’d exchanged a few words and Mac had left. Travis hadn’t mentioned his trips out Friday or Saturday night. He figured Mac would hear about it from the other guys, or he wouldn’t. It didn’t really make much difference.

* * * *

Two more weeks had passed, and once again Mac was making his way home on a Sunday morning. He grinned as he planned his day with Grace. It was a beautiful morning and, according to the weatherman, this was going to last all day. He thought she might like a trip to the park or the zoo.

Mac parked in his usual spot and climbed out. He let himself into the house, trying his best to be quiet. As he moved quietly through the house, an odd noise coming from the bathroom caught his attention. He quickened his steps to find the door shut. He tried the knob and called out for Grace. As he started to open the door, he heard her groan. “Don’t come in here. I have the flu.”

Mac stopped trying to get inside the bathroom and closed the door so she could have her privacy. He made his way back to the kitchen and checked the fridge for something to settle her stomach. There was a bottle of Gatorade in the door, so he poured her a glass and went into the bedroom to wait for her. He changed his clothes into something comfortable while he waited. Since Grace was sick, there wouldn’t be any trips anywhere today.

Mac looked toward the doorway when he heard Grace come back. Her skin had a green tinge to it, and she looked like hell. He wasn’t dumb enough to tell her that, though. He helped her back into bed and offered her the drink. She shook her head and burrowed under the blankets. His hand brushed the hair from her face and he leaned down to kiss her forehead. “You rest, baby. I’ll be in the other room if you need me.”

He wanted to crawl into bed with her, but he didn’t want to jostle her with her stomach upset, so, he made sure she was comfortable and left the bedroom. He made himself breakfast. Thank goodness Gracey kept cereal in the cupboard.

Mac found baseball games to occupy him in the afternoon. He’d gone in to check on Grace about noon and she’d been sound asleep. He hadn’t heard her since she’d gone back to bed this morning.

Halfway through the seventh inning of the Yankee game, his phone rang.

“Hey, buddy. Whatcha doin’?” It was Travis.

“Just watching the Yankees game. Gracey’s sick.”

“What’s wrong with Gracey?” Mac could hear the concern in Travis’s voice.

“Some flu bug. She was puking when I got home this morning. She’s sleeping right now.”

“Do you need me to bring you anything?”

Mac smiled. “No thanks. I think she’ll be okay once she gets some rest. I’ll call and order myself a pizza later.”

“All right. If you change your mind, though, give me a call.”

“I will. Thanks, Trav.” Mac hit “end call” and set his phone back on the coffee table. As he sat back, he heard footsteps coming down the hall. He looked over the back of the couch and saw Gracey coming, and that her color was better than it had been this morning.

“How are you feeling, baby?” he asked.

“Hungry.” She rubbed her eyes and gave him a smile.

Mac eyed her. “I think there are saltines in the cupboard…”

Grace shook her head. “I want food. I’m going to make some soup and sandwiches. Do you want some?”

Mac nodded. “Sure, if you’re up to it. Do you want me to help?”

“You can do the sandwiches if you want. I’ll do the soup.” Grace disappeared into the kitchen.

Mac pushed himself off the couch and went to join her. The first thing he did when he got in the kitchen was walk over and feel her forehead. She wasn’t warm or clammy the way she had been. “When did you start getting sick?”

“I woke up sick this morning, but it seems to have passed, thank goodness.” She smiled at him and leaned up to kiss his cheek. She wandered to the fridge and looked inside, grabbed the ham and Swiss cheese, turned back to Mac and handed them over. “Do you want hot or cold?”

Mac thought it over for a minute. “Let’s do hot. I’ll get the griddle out.”

They worked in silence except for the sound of Grace softly humming. Mac kept stealing glances at her and giving her soft smiles. He was relieved that she seemed to be over her earlier sickness.

Mac and Grace curled up on the couch for a lazy evening of movies and just spending time together. Grace insisted she felt fine, but it wasn’t long before she ended with her head in his lap and her breathing starting to even out. Mac’s fingers combed gently through her hair as he sat back to watch the rest of the movie.

The credits were starting to roll when Mac’s phone rang. He noted the time. It was well after nine at night, and usually calls that late were not good news. He saw Travis’s name on the display and answered, quietly, trying to keep from waking Grace if he could. “Hey.”

“How’s Gracey?”

“She seems fine. She got up shortly after I talked to you and ate some dinner. She fell asleep while we were watching a movie.”

Travis belched in Mac’s ear and laughed. “That’s good news!”

Mac frowned at the phone in his hand and realized the background noise he heard was people and music. Travis was at a bar? He shook his head. Travis was a grown man, why the hell should he care if Travis was out? “Yeah, I was worried this morning. What are you doing?”

“Oh, you know. I thought I’d go out and have a couple beers, see if I could meet some new people. I have a pocket full of phone numbers, and no interest in any of them. Par for the course, huh, buddy?”

“You're out trying to pick up women?” That didn’t sound like Travis. He was usually the one that had flocks of females chasing him. Mac’s frown deepened. Something wasn’t right.

“I’m over twenty-one and single. I can pick up women if I damn well want to, Mac.” Travis’s tone had a hard edge.

“How much have you had to drink, Travis? Do you need a ride?”

“Probably, but I’ll catch one with someone else. Don’t you worry about me. You never do any other time.”

“What the hell is that supposed to mean, Travis?” Mac’s loud response had Grace stirring on his lap, and then sitting up. She wore probably the same frown Mac did. “Grace and I both think about you, worry about you when you get called out…”

“I’m not talking about work, Mac. I know you and Grace worry about me, then. I’m talking about the other times. Like when you’re having dinner, going to movies, fucking. Do you think about me when you’re fucking Gracey, Mac?”

Mac’s jaw hung slack as he listened to the slurred rant on the other end of the phone. He looked at Grace to find her staring back at him, a sad, concerned expression on her face. “Travis, you lost me. Where’re you at? I’m coming to get you.”

"The Red Bulldog, on Adams, but I told you, I can find a ride. You don’t have to come out here and get me.” His tone was still belligerent, but not as much as it had been a minute ago.

Mac was already up and moving, grabbing his wallet and keys. He kissed Grace on the forehead and went out to his truck, still holding the phone. “I think I really do have to come. I need to make sure you’re safe. Do you want Gracey to worry about you all night?”

“No.” Now Travis sounded sullen.

“I’ll be there in a few. Hang tight and don’t leave.” Mac hung up his phone and started his truck.

* * * *

Mac drove across town to the bar that Travis had named, and walked inside. He spotted Travis right away, sitting there with a lost look on his face. Mac walked over and slid onto the bar stool beside him. “Hey.”

“Hey.” Travis wouldn’t look at Mac. “I’m ready to go.” He stood up from his stool and laid money on the bar.

Mac stood as well, and followed Travis out the door. Neither man spoke as they climbed into Mac’s truck and started down the road. Mac pulled up in front of his house and turned the truck off. “I figured you could sleep here tonight, and we can go pick your truck up in the morning.”

“Yeah, okay, if that’s what you want.” Travis climbed out and started around the truck. His shoulders were slightly slumped, as if the weight of the world rested on them.

Mac led Travis into the house and locked up. Grace was sitting on the couch, looking concerned. The moment was awkward as hell for all of them. Travis let out a sigh and started for the hallway. “I’m going to bed. If I’m not up when you’re ready to leave, come get me.”

Travis disappeared down the hallway, leaving Mac and Grace looking at each other. Grace stood up and walked to Mac, sliding her arms around his waist and laying her head against his chest. “He looks so sad. Do you know what’s bothering him?”

Mac stroked Grace’s back and shook his head. “I’ve never seen him like this. He was at a bar to pick up women, he said. Then he asked me if we thought of him while we were making love.”

Grace pulled away to look at Mac’s face. Her mouth was set in a grim line. “That doesn’t sound like him at all.”

Mac watched Grace look at the time. “C’mon. Let’s get ready for bed.”

* * * *

Mac was awakened by the sound of retching coming from the bathroom. He dove from the bed and went to the bathroom door to knock. “Gracey?”

“I guess I wasn’t over the flu like I thought. Go back to bed. I’ll be out in a few minutes.”

Travis appeared behind Mac, concern and sleep on his face. “Is Grace sick again?”

“Yeah. She says she has the flu, but I don’t know. She seemed fine last night.”

Travis rubbed at his eyes and looked at Mac. “Maybe she overdid it last night and relapsed. You think?”

Mac shrugged his shoulders. “Could be, I guess.” Mac scratched his chest and stretched. “Well, I’m up. Do you want some coffee?”

“I’ll make it. You stay here in case Grace needs you.” Travis walked out of the bedroom, and Mac watched him go.

Grace came out of the bathroom a few minutes later. Her color was off again. Mac scooped her up, gently, despite her protests that she could walk and carried her to the bed, tucking her in. “Trav and I will be in the kitchen if you need us. Try to rest.” He brushed her hair back from her eyes and kissed her forehead before he left the bedroom.

Travis had the coffee brewing by the time Mac wandered into the kitchen. He looked up when Mac came in. His brow rose in question. “She doesn’t look too good. I’m wondering if I should call the doctor for her.”

“Why don’t you wait a little while and ask her? She knows how she feels.” The coffee pot gurgled, then hissed, signaling completion. Travis retrieved two cups from the cupboard and filled them.

Mac looked toward the hall and the bedroom, then nodded. He was scheduled to go in to work tonight. He hated the idea of leaving Grace home by herself when she was sick, though. They had a few hours before it would be time for him to leave, and he still needed to talk to Travis about the night before.

Mac slid into one of the kitchen chairs, and waited for Travis to sit. “So, about last night…”

Travis shifted in his seat and turned his face away. “Look. I had too much to drink and my mouth was spewing bullshit. It’s no big deal. Just forget it.”

“Well, see, I would, but you said a few things that got my back up.”

“Man, it was the alcohol talking! I’d never disrespect Gracey. I’m sorry.”

“What made you go there in the first place? It’s not like you to hang out in bars by yourself.”

Travis shrugged his shoulders and took a sip of his coffee. “I’m tired of being alone and wanting things I can’t have.” That was the most honest answer Travis had.

Mac downed half his coffee and stood up to go refill his mug. “You always have wanted a big family, for as long as I’ve known you. But what do you want that you can’t have?”

Travis gave him a sour look and drained his mug. “Never mind. It’s not important.”

“Come on. If you can’t talk to me, who can you talk to?”

Travis sighed and dropped back into the kitchen chair. “I’ve met who I want to make a family with, but it’s just not possible.”

Mac opened his mouth when he heard Grace’s voice from the doorway. “Mac, leave Travis be.” They watched her glide into the kitchen and put a pot on for tea. She walked over to stand beside Mac and looked at Travis. “I’m sorry,” she said.

* * * *

Travis looked at Grace’s face, and he knew she knew. That was one of the things that Travis loved about her. She was smart, intuitive. He knew Mac assumed she was apologizing for the third degree he was giving Travis, but what she was really saying was how sorry she was that they couldn’t love him the way he loved them.

He picked up his mug and drained it dry before taking it to the sink and setting it inside. Turning back to the couple, he gave a half-hearted smile. “Yeah, well, what can you do?” He walked over and kissed Grace’s cheek, and dropped a kiss on Mac’s head without thought. “I’m gonna go get my truck. Thanks for giving me a place to crash last night.” With that, he stalked down the hallway to finish getting dressed, so he could walk the couple of miles to pick up his truck from the bar.

Chapter Four

Mac and Grace curled up on the couch. He didn’t want a repeat of this morning, so quiet and easy was the plan for the rest of the day. He reached for the remote, intent on finding something they both enjoyed, when Grace’s hand fell on his arm. “We need to talk about Travis, Mac.”

Well, that doesn’t sound good. Mac let the remote fall back to the coffee table, and turned so he could see Grace’s face. Her color was almost back to normal but it was the sadness on her face that concerned him. “Do you know what’s going on with him, Gracey?”

She nodded and took his hand, threading their fingers together. Her eyes watched the way they fit perfectly together, and then started to talk. “I heard what he said to you, earlier. About finding who he wanted to make his family with.” She looked up at his face. “Mac, if you think about it, you’ll know you’ve seen it too.”

Mac looked down at his wife, his brows drawing together. He thought back over the years since they’d all become friends, and shook his head. “Gracey, just tell me. I’m a man; I fail to notice most things, so if there's something I missed, just tell me.”

Grace let out a soft sigh, her eyes filling with more sadness. “Mac, it’s us. We’re who he wants for his family.”

Mac’s jaw dropped and he stared at Grace. “You can’t be serious, Grace! Well, he can’t have you. I won’t give you up without one hell of a fight!”

“No, Mac. Not me, us. As in you and me.”

“Oh…” He drew the word out, slowly. He slid from under her and stood up. “Can I get you anything from the kitchen?” He could feel Grace’s eyes on him, but he couldn’t make himself meet her gaze.

“No, thank you. I’m fine,” Grace whispered.

Mac spun on his heel and strode into the kitchen. He pulled a glass from the cupboard and filled it with water, then stood at the sink, staring at nothing outside, until he felt Grace’s arms wrap around him from behind. “The truth is, I knew, sort of. I knew that he loved us and he wanted to be with us. I just never…I didn’t see how much. I assumed he’d find himself someone by now, and he would leave us, so why invite him in for a while? Why get attached when he would move on sooner or later?”

Grace’s hand ran up and down Mac’s firm abs in a soothing rhythm. “I understand. But Mac, I don’t think he’s going to ever move on. I think if he does, it will be with only half a heart.”

“How do you feel about all this, Gracey?” He patted her hand and started moving his hand across her arm, back and forth, still looking out the window.

“I love him as much as you do. He’s our family, Mac.”

“All right, then.” He tugged Grace around in front of him and picked her up, setting her on the sink.

Grace squeaked and tried to get down. Mac grinned at her. “What’s wrong, Gracey?”

“My ass found a wet spot!” she said, still wiggling on the edge of the sink.

His grin turned evil. “A wet spot, you say? Let me feel.” His fingers found their way under the nightgown she’d been wearing all day. He found her bare underneath, and cocked a brow. “Naughty Gracey.”

Her giggle turned into a gasp when Mac’s fingers touched her swollen folds. She was already hot and damp between her legs when his fingers parted her and slid inside her pussy. “Mac!”

“So wet for me already. You sure you feel up to playing, Grace?”

“I’m fine! Please!” Her hips were trying to rise off the counter to drive his fingers further inside her.

Mac thrust his fingers as far as they would go, and watched as Grace’s eyes rolled back in her head. He flicked them back and forth over her sweet spot until she was writhing and begging. He shifted his hand so he could use his thumb to press against her clit. She wailed his name and came undone.

Mac reached down and unfastened his pants. He pulled his hard cock from his jeans and gave it a stroke. The counter had her positioned in the perfect spot for him to slide inside her. He could still feel the quivering of her walls as he pushed inside her. He stopped moving when he was fully seated inside her. “Gracey, open your eyes. Look at me.” Her eyes opened to stare back into his. “I love you. More than anything in this world, Gracey, I love you.”

With that said, he started to move. He thrust slow and deep. His hands gripped her hips, holding her in place so she didn’t fall into the sink. The sounds of their lovemaking were the only sounds in the room. Soft moans, needy whimpers and whispered words of love fell from their lips as he rocked into her.

When he felt her starting to tremble, he knew she was close and picked up the pace. He kept his thrusts deep, bumping her cervix with every inward stroke. Her legs lifted to wrap around his waist, forcing him to shorten his movements. She gripped his shoulders, and when she came this time, her nails scored his shoulders. He let himself go and followed her into bliss.

After their breathing returned to normal, and a handful of soft kisses, Mac helped Grace down from the sink and straightened her nightgown. He refastened his pants and led her to the bedroom. She looked sleepy, and it was almost time for him to report to the fire station. He tucked her into bed, and packed his duffel with clean clothes for the next few days.

Mac made Grace promise to call him if she got to feeling bad again or worse. He gave her soft kisses and headed out. The conversation with Travis, and then the one with Grace about Travis, were rolling around in his brain. He needed to talk to Travis, but he needed to do it without other ears around.

* * * *

Travis wondered how much damage he’d done with his drunken escapade. He could live, not happily, but he would survive as long as he had Mac and Grace in his life. If he ruined everything with his confessions and vague comments, he would never forgive himself.

He knew he would see Mac at the fire station that night. They were on the same rotation this week. To say he expected things to be tense and awkward was an understatement. He mentally crossed his fingers that he would be wrong.

Slinging his bag over his shoulder, Travis locked up his apartment and bailed in his truck. The drive to the station was a short one, so he didn’t have much time to stew or worry.

Travis locked up his truck and walked inside to see what was happening. All seemed to be quiet for the moment, so he went to stow his clothes in his locker.

Mac was leaning against his locker when Travis walked in. I guess we’re getting this over with right away, Travis thought. Better than waiting and wondering. “Hey, Mac. How’s Gracey?”

“She was better when I left. She’s promised to call if she’s gets worse.” He looked down at his boots, then back up. “Travis, Grace explained. I owe you an apology.”

Travis frowned at him, confused as to why Mac would owe him an apology. “I don’t get it.”

“I noticed, but… I didn’t. I’m a man, so I can’t be held completely responsible for my lack of brain power, but I’m sorry that I didn’t get it before Grace explained.” Mac rubbed his hand against the back of his neck. “How long have you felt this way?”

Travis sighed as he understood. “A long time, Mac. Probably since the first time we shared Grace.” He looked away, busying himself with unpacking his duffel bag.

“You know, we do love you too. You could have come to us before it got so bad for you. We’d have worked it out.”

Travis shut his locker door and dropped onto the bench in the aisle. “At first, I thought it was just because we had sex. But then the feeling didn’t go away. And then you married Grace, and I didn’t think there was a place for me anymore.” He shrugged his shoulders and looked up at Mac. “I was dealing until the other night. After we were all together again, and then you took Grace to see the doctor and I was left here, working your shift…I didn’t mind helping you out, but I’d rather have been with you. That was when I realized I needed to find someone of my own.”

Mac sat down next to him, his hands folding and hanging between his knees. “Is that what you want? To find someone else?”

“What other choice do I have? I want kids, too, Mac, and someone to go home to.”

“What about trying to make a family with us?”

Travis’s head popped up and he stared at Mac. “Huh?”

“If you’re willing to try, we are too. Do you want to try, Trav?”

Travis stared for a moment, then grabbed Mac and pulled him into a hard kiss. Rough hands and lips turned to dueling tongues. Mac returned Travis’s kiss with passion of his own. For the first time in a long time, Travis had hope that everything was going to be all right.

They broke apart, both breathing hard, and Travis grinned. “Does that answer your question?”

Mac chuckled. “All right, then. I’ll call Grace in the morning, and tell her to set one more place at the table from now on.”

* * * *

Mac waited until nine the next morning to call Grace. Her voice sounded rough with sleep when she answered, making him frown. She was normally up and moving by then. “Gracey?”

“Hey, Mac. How was your night?”

“Were you still sleeping?” he wanted to know, concern evident in his voice.

“Yeah. I decided to sleep in this morning,” she answered.

“Gracey, were you sick again?”

“I’m just tired. What are you doing?” She was trying to change the subject, as if he could be distracted that easily.

“I think you need to call the doctor, Gracey. It’s not like you to be sick this long.”

“I will, if it’ll make you feel better. Now, enough about me. What’s up? Did you get a chance to talk to Travis?” He heard the sheets rustle with her movement and he knew she was sitting up.

“Yeah, I talked to him. How would you feel about setting another place at dinner from now on?”

“I suppose I could wash an extra plate.” He could hear the smile in her voice. “How do you feel about it?”

“It’s not normal, but when have we ever been normal? We’ll give it a shot. Travis is worth it.”

“I couldn’t agree more.”

“I’m going to go, so you can call the doctor. Let me know what she says. Do you need Travis or me to drive you?”

“No, I can manage. I’ll call you when I get done.”

“Love you, Gracey.”

“Love you, Mac.”

She disconnected the call, and he shut his own phone. He left the privacy of the back parking lot, and went inside to find Travis.

* * * *

Mac found Travis in the firehouse kitchen. He chuckled when he saw Travis rooting through the cupboards. “Man, are you ever not hungry?”

Travis turned around and grinned. “I want something sweet. Any idea where the cookies are hidden?”

“Next cupboard on the left, top shelf. You’d better get your fill now, because we’ve given up cookies at home. Grace’s doctor said we needed to start eating healthier the last time we were there, remember?”

“Oh, yeah.” He opened the next cupboard door and found his prize. “Did you get ahold of her? Is she feeling better?”

“She was sleeping when I called.” Mac lost his smile.

Travis turned to frown back at Mac. “Gracey is usually up by now. I take it she’s still sick?”

“She said she was tired.” Mac shrugged. “Maybe the last few days have just taken her energy, but I talked her into calling the doctor. She’s going to call when she’s done.”

Travis nodded. “Good.” He held out the package. “Want some contraband? I promise to not rat you out.”

Mac shot him a quick grin and grabbed a couple of cookies. “You rat me out, you’re sleeping on the couch.”

“Oh, hell no. You’ll be sleeping on the couch for eating cookies and not telling Gracey.” Travis winked at him.

“Ah, I see how it’s going to be.” Mac chuckled and shook his head. “You’re an ass.”

“You love my ass.”

Mac face-palmed and barked out a laugh. “Heaven help us all.”

Chapter Five

“Congratulations, Grace! You’re pregnant!” The doctor was beaming.

Grace pinched her arm to see if she was dreaming. “Ow!” She stared at the doctor and whispered, “You’re sure?”

“We ran the test twice. Yes, I’m sure.”

“I thought… I hoped—I haven’t said anything to Mac or Travis, because I wanted to be sure.” Grace let out a squeal and hopped down off the exam table, excited and eager to leave so she could go tell Mac. He was going to be so happy. A wave of nausea and dizziness washed over her, and she grabbed the table to keep from falling.

She felt the doctor’s hands on her waist, steadying her. “Whoa, now. Take it easy.”

“How long will this part last?” Grace asked after a couple deep breaths.

“Take more mineral supplements. Once you’re past your first trimester, your system should settle. No quick movements, crackers by the bed, and the nausea should ease.”

“Thank you. I can’t wait to tell Mac. He’s going to be over the moon!” Grace smiled at the doctor.

“I’ll let you get dressed, and have the nurse schedule your next appointment. Congratulations again, Grace. I know how hard this has been on you.”

The doctor disappeared out of the exam room and left Grace alone with her thoughts. Pregnant!

* * * *

“Mac, she’ll call when she’s done. Maybe she got a later appointment, or something. Checking your phone every two seconds won’t make her call any faster.” Travis threw a piece of popcorn at Mac.

Mac popped it in his mouth and tried to focus his attention on the ballgame. “I know. I’m just antsy. She’s never sick this long.”

“It’s probably just some bug going around. The doc’ll give her an antibiotic, and she’ll be back to kicking both our asses before the end of the week.”

Mac started to answer when Grace appeared in the doorway. She looked a little nervous, playing with her purse strap. “The chief said it was okay if I came back here.”

Mac shot to his feet and started for her, and he saw Travis doing the same from the corner of his eye. “What’s wrong? What did the doctor say?”

Travis joined them, looking every bit as concerned as Mac. When Grace burst into tears, Travis looked at Mac with wide eyes. The only time he’d ever seen Grace cry had been when her parents were killed in a car wreck a few years ago. “Should I leave you two alone?” Travis asked.

“Gracey! What’s wrong?” Mac pulled Grace into his arms and started rocking her back and forth. “No, you’re part of this family now, Trav.”

Travis went behind her and put his arms around them both.

“No, no, nothing’s wrong! I’m just so happy!” Grace sniffled against Mac’s chest.

Travis and Mac exchanged a confused look and backed off Grace enough for her to look at both of them. “We don’t understand.”

Grace’s face lit up, brighter than the sun. “I’m pregnant!”

Mac’s face wouldn’t have been any more surprised if she had decked him. Travis assumed his face looked very similar. Then Mac started to laugh, really laugh, and Travis couldn’t contain the “Whoop!” that echoed through the fire station. They sandwiched Grace between them, again, raining kisses on her face.

“We have to celebrate! Thursday, both of us are off shift; we’ll take you to dinner,” Mac enthused.

“Whatever you want, Gracey. Wherever you want to go,” Travis agreed.

Grace laughed and nodded. “We’ll see how I feel. The doctor says my stomach will be iffy until after the first trimester.” She whispered the first trimester again and squealed.

Mac looked over at Travis and grinned. “Well, buddy, looks like we’ll be making the guest room into a nursery. I hope you can paint.”

Travis nodded. “I’ll paint. You can put the furniture together.”

Grace snickered. “And what am I going to do?”

Mac grinned and winked at her. “You can be forewoman.”

* * * *

Grace left for home a short while later. She was starting to get hungry, and the guys had chores at the station to finish. Travis and Mac had watched her leave, wearing almost identical grins. Travis slapped Mac on the shoulder. “Congratulations, buddy.”

“Thanks, Trav. I can’t believe it’s finally happened! Did you see the smile on Gracey’s face? I haven’t seen her smile like that since we said ‘I do’.” Mac walked toward the utility closet. Today was his turn to hose out the truck bays.

Travis was walking in the same direction. He had restroom detail that day, so he needed to get in the closet as well. “I saw. She’s happier than I’ve ever seen her.”

Mac opened the closet door, and Travis followed him inside. Travis was gathering the cleaning supplies and rags when Mac spun him around. He pushed him up against the shelves, and melded their mouths together. His hands slid over Travis’s chest, fingers digging in. He pulled his mouth away, both of them breathing hard. “I intend for us all to be happy. Together.”

Mac grabbed the garden hose, threw it over his shoulder and marched out of the utility closet, leaving Travis staring after him.

* * * *

Thursday night came, bringing with it anticipation and excitement. Grace stood at the livingroom door when Mac and Travis walked up. Her auburn hair was twisted up into a messy ponytail that she made look elegant. She wore a knee-length sundress with a denim jacket over it.

Mac and Travis both took turns hugging and kissing Grace. By the time they were done, she was breathless and a little flushed.

“Let us get changed, Grace, and then we can go. Have you decided what you’re hungry for?” Mac was already stripping off his shirt as he started walking toward the hallway.

“I thought seafood, if that’s okay with you guys.”

“Seafood works for me. Travis?”

“Far be it from me to deny the little momma what she wants.” He grinned as he untucked his shirt.

Both men disappeared down the hallway, returning a few minutes later dressed and ready to go. “After you, lovely lady.” Mac gestured with his arm for Grace to lead the way.

The three of them piled into Mac’s truck, with Grace sitting in the middle. One of her hands rested on Mac’s thigh and the other on Travis’s. Mac saw and smiled. “So, Gracey, we thought we’d move Travis in this weekend. Is that okay with you?”

“It’s about time, I think. Is there anything you need for me to do to help?”

“I don’t think so. You might be able to carry some of the lighter stuff, but I don’t want you lifting anything heavy,” Mac answered.

“We both get off work Saturday morning at seven. We’ll probably go straight to my place, and load up the pickups before we come home.” Travis grinned.

“I’ll put coffee on for you.”

Mac pulled into the parking lot of the seafood restaurant, and found a place to park. They climbed out of the truck and went inside. The hostess found them a booth in the center of the room, then handed them menus. “Your server will be right with you,” she said before walking away to seat more customers.

Grace put her menu on the table and folded her hands in her lap. “I already know what I want.”

“Travis, do you know what you want?” Mac asked him.

“I have a pretty good idea, yeah. I’m just giving this menu a quick look to be sure. What about you?” Travis hadn’t even looked up.

“I’m having the baked cod with wild rice, and whatever vegetable is on tonight.”

The server arrived at their table to take each of their orders. She took their menus and promised to return soon with their drinks and appetizers. Good as her word, she was back within minutes to set their drinks down and scurry away to deal with other customers.

The meal passed quickly, with laughter and lots of conversation. After they finished eating, Mac and Travis took care of the bill and tip. They walked out to Mac’s truck and headed home.

Mac locked his truck once everyone was out, taking Grace’s hand and walking her to the front door. He stuck his key in the lock and pushed the door open. Before Grace could step inside, Mac had her in his arms, his mouth covering hers and his hands cupping her ass. He swallowed her gasp of surprise, thrusting his tongue between her lips. It pleased him to no end when he felt her melt in his embrace. His hands were pressed more firmly to her backside when Travis crowded in behind her. Tonight, they would be together, the three of them, not for something different but to mark the beginning of their becoming a family.

* * * *

It took most of Saturday to get Travis moved into Mac and Grace’s house. When they brought in the first load, Grace surprised them with breakfast. The three of them sat around the table and ate, and then the men went outside to unload the trucks. They, of course, wouldn’t let Grace carry anything heavier than a book. She did get to ride back and forth while they loaded and unloaded the trucks, though. She took turns riding with Mac and Travis. The men stole kisses and rubbed her belly often throughout the day.

Work schedules had been arranged so that Travis would be off Sunday night and would work during the day on Monday, while Mac would work Sunday night and be off during the day Monday. Gracey had her first doctor’s appointment, and Mac didn’t want to miss it.

Mac kissed them goodbye and headed out for the station. Grace curled up on the couch to watch a movie with Travis. About halfway through, Grace decided she was ready for bed and stood up. “I’m heading to bed. Are you going to finish the movie?”

Travis looked at her with uncertainty in his eyes. “Um, yeah, probably.”

Grace’s hands landed on her hips. “Okay. What’s wrong?”

“Wrong? Nothing is wrong, per se. I’m just not sure what the rules are, and I don’t want to fuck anything up.”

“Rules? Rules for what?”

“For bed. For touching.”

“Travis McIntire, turn off that television and I’ll show you what they are.” She held her hand out to him and waited, patiently. He turned off the television and put his hand on hers, climbing from the couch.

Grace led Travis into the bedroom and closed the door. She turned to face him when they reached the bed. With her fingers gathering his T-shirt into her hands, she smiled up at him. “Rule number one is no clothes in my bed. Rule number two is both of us must come at least once before we go to sleep. But more than once earns you bonus points.” She finished un-tucking his shirt then pulled it up and over his head. “Any questions, so far?”

This was a new side to Grace that he’d never seen before, and he had to admit he liked it. “No questions.” His hands moved to her shirt, and he started to raise it. He liked the tease of seeing inch after inch of skin revealed, while she’d wanted it all and wanted it now. Her shirt dropped to the floor as his fingers moved to the hooks of her bra. He could see her nipples, hard and straining against the lace.

“Good.” Her hands splayed across his chest, the light brown hairs tickling her palms. Her eyes watched her hands as they smoothed across the muscles and down the ripped contours of his belly. She flipped her long hair over her shoulder and looked up into his eyes. “I’ve never touched you like this before. I’d like to take my time. Do you mind?”

His voice had deepened but gotten softer. “No. At least, not yet.” He flashed her a tight smile. Her touch and the fascinated look on her face had sent his blood on fire. “Do I get the same courtesy?”

Her voice was breathless. “If you’d like.” Her hands found the top of his jeans. She unfastened the button and slid the zipper down, then pushed his jeans down over his hips and down his thighs, leaving him standing in his boxer briefs. She used her fingernail to trace the outline of his erection through his underwear. He hissed, and his cock twitched. Grace let out a soft giggle and did it again. When she got the same reaction, she looked up to grin at Travis.

“My turn,” he said in a tight voice. He finished removing Grace’s clothes, and slid his hands down to her wrists. He held her arms away from her body, looking his fill and making her blush with the heat in his eyes. He drew her against him, buried his face in her thick hair, and inhaled her flowery scent. His hands released her arms and moved to cup her face. His nose ran along her temple, down her cheek and along her jaw. He put a soft kiss on each corner of her mouth before his mouth covered hers fully. Tongues tangled, lips meshed, and Grace let out a needy whimper.

Travis backed Grace up until her legs hit the bed. She lost her balance and sat on the edge. That brought her to eye level with his cock. She pulled his boxer briefs down until he kicked them to the side. Grace wrapped her hand around the base of his cock, and stroked out to the tip. Travis moaned her name. Slowly, steadily, she pumped the length of him until she saw the pearl of pre-cum on the tip. She leaned in and licked the fluid off, a hum of approval escaping her lips.

Travis shuddered. “Grace…” When she took all of him into her mouth, his eyes crossed. He gloried in the pleasure of having her mouth on him, until he couldn’t stand it anymore. “Grace, you have to stop, honey.” He pulled away from her and gave her a smile. Her lips were rosy and swollen from his kisses, and from having his cock in her mouth. Her eyes were heavy and smoldering. How could he resist another kiss?

His mouth moved over hers, harder than before. He used his teeth, giving little nips to her lips until she was biting back. He grinned and thrust his tongue into her mouth. She moaned and pressed her body against his. His arms tightened around her and he lifted her up. She gave a little gasp of surprise against his mouth and he grinned. Holding her in his arms, he lifted her up over the bed. Suddenly he let go, and she dropped to the mattress with wide eyes. He chuckled and pounced, careful of her stomach.

Grace shrieked when Travis pounced, then laugh delightedly. The shrieking and laughing turned to a long moan as his mouth latched on to her breast. They were sensitive anyway because of the pregnancy, but being aroused had made them more so. Then he had to use his expert mouth to suck and bite her nipples, and that almost made her come. Her fingers were rooted in his blonde hair while her hips were bouncing and wiggling under his weight.

His mouth moved from her breasts to her belly. He paused over where he knew the baby rested and gave her a soft kiss. He whispered something that Grace couldn’t hear, then moved lower. His tongue found the wet, hot center of her and thrust inside. Grace wailed her pleasure. He felt her legs start to shake when he found her sweet spot with the tip of his tongue. He poked and stroked and licked until her legs shot straight up in the air. He sucked hard on her clit, and she screamed.

Grace’s body trembled when the orgasm eased. Travis slid up her body to look down into her face. Her cheeks were flushed, her lips slightly parted as she sucked air, and a few stray pieces of hair were lying across her face. He swept the hair away and watched as her eyes slowly opened. He smiled down at her and kissed her parted lips. “Hi.”

She returned his smile. “Hi.”

With a roll of his hips, he began pushing inside her. Her eyes flared wide then drooped. Their gazes locked as he filled her. He slid slow and deep inside her, and withdrew just as slowly. It was beautiful agony, but he wanted to make it last for her. When her head started tossing and her hips slamming upwards, he knew it was time to move. He snapped his hips forward and back, hard and fast.

Travis could feel his chills race down his spine and his sac drawing up. He pumped harder, pushing Grace toward her peak so they could fall together. She let go, arching her back and chanting his name. Travis allowed her to pull him along, groaning out her name as his cock twitched inside her.

Long moments later his eyes opened, and he looked down at Gracey. She was on the verge of sleep, wearing a sated smile. He chuckled and slid out of her, then went to the bathroom to clean himself up. He came back with a washcloth and cleaned her up too, then crawled into bed beside her. Sleep came on swift wings, taking them both under.

* * * *

A month had passed, with Grace’s morning sickness dwindling to almost none. The dizzy spells had eased too, as long as she made sure to take her prenatal vitamins. Mac and Grace sat in the exam room. Grace had on one of those paper gowns that she had to hold closed. “I don’t know why these rooms have to be so cold,” she grumbled.

“I’ll warm you up,” Mac offered, bobbing his brows up and down.

Grace laughed, as he had intended. “I wish Travis could have come with us.”

Mac agreed. “There will probably be times he can come and I can’t.”

“I know, but this is the first time we get to hear the baby’s heartbeat. He should be here too, Mac.”

Mac held up a finger and reached for his cell. He hit the speed dial for Travis and waited for him to answer. “Hey.”

“What’s wrong? Why aren’t you at Grace’s appointment?”

“We’re in the exam room now. We’re waiting on the doctor. Keep your phone close and make sure you answer when I call back.” Mac winked at Grace and hung up.

“Mac, you’re going to make him crazy wondering what that was all about,” Grace admonished. She had a small smile though.

A short while later the doctor came in, wearing a big smile. “How are you feeling, Grace?”

“The morning sickness is mostly gone, so better.”

“Good, good. Are you two ready to hear your baby?”

Mac and Grace exchanged a glance, nodding. “More than ready.”

Mac took his cell out again and hit redial. Travis answered, firing off questions before Mac could even speak. Mac interrupted, “Shut up and listen, Travis.” He put his phone on speaker. Silence came over the room, as if everyone was holding their breath. Then everyone heard it, the sound like flapping wings. Grace gasped, Travis sucked in a breath, and Mac grinned from ear to ear.

“It’s so fast,” Grace said in awe.

“Just as it should be,” the doctor answered. Mac saw her watch the monitor in her hand and then check her watch.

“Is everything okay?” Mac asked.

“Oh, yes. I’m sure everything is fine.” She let them listen for a couple more minutes, and then shut down the device in her hand. “Grace, I’m going to schedule you for blood tests in two weeks. The results will be back by your next appointment.”

“Blood tests? Why?” Mac wanted to know.

“Just routine blood work. Starting next visit, we’ll do a urine sample when you come in, to monitor your sugar too.”

“Oh, okay.” Mac wasn’t sure he was convinced, but Grace didn’t look alarmed, so he guessed he shouldn’t be either. He put his phone to his ear and promised to call Travis on their way home.

The doctor left them alone and he helped Grace change back into her clothes. She still had the awed expression on her face, along with a giant grin. He kissed her temple and pulled her into his arms. “I love you, Grace,” was all he said.

* * * *

Two weeks after her doctor’s appointment, the office called and asked Grace to come in. Her blood work was back, and the doctor wanted to discuss it with her. When she got home that afternoon, she cornered Mac and Travis in the living room.

“I need you both to sit down. There's something I have to tell you.” She started twirling her hair and walking in a small circle. That was something she did only when she was nervous.

Travis and Mac exchanged a puzzled look and sat down on the couch. They watched Gracey play with her hair some more. “Gracey, just tell us. It can’t be that bad.”

She seemed to gather herself and blew out a breath. “I had blood work done, as you both know,” she started. “There was something unusual—not bad, but unusual." She picked up something from the coffee table and handed it to Mac.

Mac looked at the black and white picture in his hand, looked at Grace, glanced at Travis who was looking over his shoulder and back at Grace. “Baby one and baby two? Twins?!”

Travis started to chuckle, then slapped Mac on the shoulder. “Way to go, buddy. When you do it, you don’t go halfway, do you?”

“Not just Mac,” Grace said, quietly. “My blood tests were unusual because…They're fraternal twins, not identical. The babies have two fathers.” She paused, waiting for the implications to set in.

Mac’s brows drew down while Travis’s eyes widened. Mac was the first to speak. “Two fathers? One of those babies isn’t mine? Well, whose is it?”

Travis and Grace both gaped at Mac. Travis answered him. “Whose do you think it is? Mine, dumbass!”

“Oh...” Mac continued to frown.

“Do you remember the condom breaking? That was the night I got pregnant,” Grace quietly explained.

The fact that Travis had stood up for her was not lost on Grace. Neither was the frown on Mac’s face. She looked at Mac with disappointment plain on her face. She started to say something, but the tears she was trying to hold back clogged her throat. She knew the men would be surprised but she'd expected happiness from both of them. Mac looking like a storm cloud hadn’t even entered her mind. She shook her head and walked out of the living room and into their bedroom, and locked the door behind her, so she could cry in peace. With tears falling down her cheeks, she remembered the appointment today.

“One of the blood tests we run is to check the Rh factor of the baby and mother. It can be dangerous if we aren’t prepared, and the baby is Rh positive where the mother is negative. If we’re prepared, it’s no big deal. Now, when we were doing your tests, we discovered that you and one of the babies have a negative Rh factor. The other baby is positive.”

“What does that mean?”

“Grace, one of your babies has a different father.” She made her voice gentle. “It's none of my business, but I’m a great listener if you need someone to talk to.”

Grace smiled at the doctor. “Mac, Travis and I are together. As in triad, together. This is actually very good news.”

The doctor looked relieved when she smiled. “As I said, it’s none of my business.”

* * * *

Things were tense at home, to say the least. Grace barely spoke to Mac and Travis had taken to sleeping on the couch when Mac was home. Going to work was actually a godsend. But he also knew he was the cause of all the tension.

Today was the cookout at Jack and Tara’s house. He asked Grace if she wanted to go with him, but she’d said no thank you. She might as well have said screw you.

Mac sat backwards at the picnic table, facing away from almost everyone. His chin rested on his hand and his elbow was propped on his knee. I miss Travis and I miss my wife’s smile, he couldn't help thinking, But can I handle knowing that one of those kids Gracey is carrying is his? I’d wished that Travis could share this with us. Now he can, and I’m being an ass about it.

Mac was so absorbed in his own thoughts that he didn’t notice six-year-old Libby, Jack’s adopted daughter, standing in front of him until she spoke. “What’s wrong, Mac?” She had her head tilted to the side and a pucker in her forehead from frowning at him. “Why are you sad?”

“I have a lot on my mind.” He tried to smooth out his face and give her a smile, but he could see he was failing miserably.

Libby looked around, frowning harder. “Where’s your family?”

“They’re at home. They’re not happy with me,” Mac answered. Why am I telling a kindergartener this? He shook his head and sat up.

“Why?” Libby sat down beside him and folded her hands in her lap. She looked as if she was planning to stay a while.

“I was bad. I said some things I didn’t mean and hurt them.”

“Say you’re sorry. That’s what mommy and daddy make me do.” She said it so matter-of-factly, she sounded as if she was the one talking to a child.

Mac managed a half-smile. “I don’t think that will fix this.”

“Saying sorry doesn’t always get me out of trouble either, but mommy and daddy says, ‘That’s a start’.” Libby nodded, as if she’d just solved all of the world’s problems.

“Thank you, Libby.” He leaned over and gave her a hug while Libby giggled.

Jack joined them just then, and looked between them. “Everything all right over here?”

Mac smiled and stood up. “You have one smart little girl, Jack.” Mac got up and strode away, heading for the front door and his truck.

* * * *

Mac entered his house through the garage, took his boots off at the door and heaved out a breath. Now or never. I gotta make this right.

He left the kitchen and went into the living room. Grace was asleep on the couch. He could hear movement in the nursery, and knew it was Travis working on getting the room ready. He owed them both an apology. He dropped a light kiss on the side of Grace’s head, so not to wake her. She needed her rest.

His footsteps were quiet as he made his way down the hall. The nursery door was open, and he could feel the breeze from the open window. The scent of fresh paint tickled his nose. He stepped into the doorway and the soft colors they’d chosen for the baby – babies – welcomed him further into the room.

Travis was almost finished with the last wall. He must have been working since he’d gotten up that morning.

Not knowing what to say, Mac stood in the room for a full minute. His eyes glanced over the walls before settling on Travis’ paint-speckled body.

Travis must have felt his eyes on him because he turned. Mac cleared his throat. “The room looks great. You did a nice job.”

“Thanks.” Travis’s tone was weary as he set the paint brush down. He wiped his hands on the rag that had been draped over his shoulder.

“Travis…” Mac stuffed his hands into his pockets. “I owe you an apology, for a lot of things. But, I’m not sorry that one of our babies carries your DNA. I…”

Travis opened his mouth to say something but Mac raised his hand.

“Let me finish. I’m not sorry that we – you, Gracey and I – made the babies together. I wanted you to be a part of this. The truth is, when you moved in, I wished for this. She's just been mine for a long time, and part of me felt like a failure for not being able to give Grace her heart’s desire. Knowing it took your help brought it to the front. I had to be the strong one, the one she counted on to get her through the not-happenings, that I buried what I was feeling. I don’t know if I’m making any sense at all here…”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” The whispered question came from behind him, out of a voice full of tears.

His head snapped around to see Grace standing in the doorway. His head swiveled around to Travis, and he noticed that Travis had been gesturing toward the door for who knew how long. “I needed to take care of you, be your rock through the broken hearts.” His head dropped down to his chest and he closed his eyes.

Soft fingers stroked his rough cheek. He lifted his head and opened his eyes. The most beautiful woman in the world to him was standing in front of him, with tears covering her cheeks. He’d done that. Rat bastard. He lifted his hands to wipe the tears way. “Please don’t cry. I’m so sorry, Grace.”

“I’m not crying because you’ve upset me. I’m crying for you, for all the times you needed to, but didn’t, because I needed you.” She gave him a watery smile. “Don’t ever do that again.”

Mac leaned his forehead against hers and gave her a smile. “I won’t.”

He felt Travis at his back, engulfing them both in his arms. “Welcome back,” he said.

They stood that way for several minutes before Mac felt Travis’s erection poking him shamelessly in the ass. He felt his own body start to respond, and when Grace wiggled against him he knew she felt it. She moved out of his arms but kept his hand in hers. She started for their bedroom with a soft smile on her face. Mac looked over his shoulder at Travis and reached for his hand.

They were quiet, unhurried in removing each other’s clothes, stealing kisses between the three of them. Mac backed Grace up to the bed, keeping his hands on her so she wouldn’t lose her balance and fall backwards. He stepped to the left so that Travis could stand on her right. Both men used their hands to caress every inch of her soft skin until she was gasping and holding on for balance.

They laid Grace on the bed and climbed up on either side of her. Each man took a nipple in their mouth, nibbling and sucking until both peaks were red and swollen and her head was tossing back and forth on the comforter.

“Grace? Gracey…” Mac called to her.

“Hmmm?” Her eyes opened to look up at them.

“Grace, we want to take you together. Is it safe for the babies?” Travis asked, stroking her from breast to thigh.

“Oh, yes, please,” she slurred. If possible, her eyes sparkled a little brighter with her agreement.

Travis lay down on the bed beside her, stroking his cock. “C’mon Grace. Ride me, honey.”

Mac helped her to straddle Travis and lowered her onto his cock. He stayed behind her and fondled her breasts, tweaking her sensitive nipples until she cried out in pleasure. His mouth was at her neck, licking and sucking at the spot behind her ear that made goose bumps cover her body.

Travis’s hands were on her hips, helping guide her while she rode him. He pulled her forward so he could thrust his tongue into her mouth. While they kissed, his hands moved to her ass and pulled the cheeks apart for Mac.

Grace moaned into his mouth when she felt slick fingers probing her ass. She pushed back at the fingers, letting Mac know she wanted more.

He gave her more, making sure she was slick and loosened before he replaced his fingers with his cock. Mac started pushing his way inside her, slowly. He heard her gasp and felt her start to stiffen. “Shhhh…” His hand rubbed her back in a soothing gesture. She relaxed and rode the pleasure.

Once he was fully inside her, Mac and Travis started a rhythm. One pulled out while the other thrust in, back and forth until Grace was panting and begging to come. Travis’s fingers found the hard bud of her clit and rubbed it in time with their thrusts.

Grace had never screamed so hard in her life when her orgasm rocked her. Every nerve in her body was alight with sensation, every muscle and bone melted. She felt Travis and Mac groan at the same time and knew they’d found their releases too.

Carefully, so he didn’t hurt her, Mac withdrew from her ass and climbed from the bed. He disappeared into the bathroom while Travis rolled them to their sides and pulled his own cock from inside her. Mac returned with a warm washcloth to clean them all up.

Grace's sleepy eyes opened to look at both of them. “I love you,” she whispered, knowing they knew it was for both of them.

“We love you too, Grace. Sleep,” Travis said, as he pulled the blankets up around her.

Mac climbed into bed on the other side of her and lay down for a nap of his own. It was good to be home again.

* * * *

Seven months later, Grace looked ready to deliver. The doctor told them at the last appointment that she could expect to go at any time. Twins normally didn’t go to full term. They’d been lucky so far, and Mac and Travis had been scheduled different shifts, so one of them was home with Grace all the time. Tonight, though, another fireman had needed the night off for a family thing.

Mac was checking his phone every half hour and driving Travis nuts doing it. After the fourth time, Travis snatched the phone from his hands and pocketed it. “Checking your phone every half hour isn’t going to make the babies come any faster. Grace will call if and when she needs us.”

“I know, I know.” Mac sighed and ran a hand down his face.

“C’mon, man. They’re getting ready to throw out the first pitch of the season.”

Mac knew his partner was trying to distract him. Why wasn’t Travis nervous, the way he was? He eyed him, and then he saw it; Travis was swinging his keys, catching them and then sending them swinging again. He burst out laughing. “You’re as nervous as I am, admit it.”

“I don’t know what you mean.” Travis stopped swinging his keys abruptly, and shoved them into his pocket. His face flushed. “Okay, so maybe I am.” He shrugged. “We both need a distraction.”

The noise level suddenly rose by a hundred percent as the sirens started flailing. “That wasn’t what I meant,” Travis mumbled. They took off running for the garage.

Everyone on board, the engines pulled out of the bays. Mac looked out the side window as the truck sped down the road. When the neighborhood registered, he reached over to gain Travis’s attention. He watched him pale when realization dawned.

The engines had barely stopped when Mac and Travis shot out of the truck. The men nearest them grabbed them both before they could go running to the house. Mac took a swing at Jack, but Jack held him off. “You can’t just go running in there, Mac!”

“The hell I can’t! My wife is in there!”

“If you don’t calm down, I’m going to have you handcuffed and in the back of Tony’s squad car before you can blink.”

Mac looked helplessly at Jack and then over at Travis. Hank was giving him the same speech. Mac took a breath and nodded. He needed to man up for Grace.

Brock and Phil were unrolling the hoses and hooking them to the hydrants. An ambulance had pulled up, and two more squad cars had arrived. Mac saw off-duty firemen, friends, pulling up to the scene in their pickups, ready to help where needed.

Jack helped Mac put on the air tank while Hank helped Travis. Someone handed an axe to Mac, and they went running for the front door. The door gave-way easily, thank all heaven. They had no time. Travis followed Mac down the hallway toward the bedroom where Grace would be.

She wasn’t conscious when they found her lying on the bed. Mac shook her shoulders, trying to rouse her, but no luck. With the twins she carried, her stomach made carrying her awkward, but pure adrenaline had Mac lifting her into his arms.

The rest of the company was busy battling the fire that appeared to be in the kitchen, when Mac brought Grace out. The EMTs rushed over with a gurney, taking Mac’s burden. Before he could say a word, they had an oxygen mask on her and were taking her vitals.

The Fire Chief and one of the off-duty firemen came over and helped Mac and Travis out of their gear so they could ride to the hospital with Grace. The ambulance roared off as fast as the driver could manage.

Grace was whisked away as soon as her gurney cleared the emergency room doors. She still hadn’t regained consciousness. A fistfight almost erupted between Mac and an orderly when he wouldn’t let them follow Grace.

The whooshing of the emergency doors had Mac looking to see two friends—Tara and then Lois—rushing toward them. “How’s Grace? Are the babies okay?” Tara wanted to know after she’d hugged Mac.

“We don’t know. They won’t let us back there with her,” Mac gritted out.

“Grace and the babies will be fine, guys,” Lois assured them, hurrying up.

Travis was pacing close enough to hear. He nodded, damn near wringing his hands. Tara and Lois herded them into the waiting room and forced them to sit. And wait.

Minutes, hours, years went by before the doctor came out. Mac and Travis surged to their feet. “Well?” Mac snapped, “How’s Grace and the babies?”

“Grace hasn’t come around yet, but her vitals all look good.” The doctor got a funny look on his face. “The babies appear to be stable, though their heart rates are a little low. They’re being monitored, but I’m sure it’s probably due more to the advanced stage of pregnancy than any trauma they experienced.”

Mac and Travis exchanged a glance. “When do you expect Grace to wake up?”

“It’s hard to say, but it should be soon. I’ll have a nurse bring you back when she does.” The doctor nodded, then walked back the way he came.

Mac dropped into the nearest chair, and Travis resumed his pacing. Tara and Lois were on their phones, probably passing along updates. Mac buried his face in his hands and tried to breathe through the pain in his chest. He had come damn close to losing the major part of his family tonight.

A short while later, the emergency nurse came out. “She’s awake,” she announced. “You can see her now.”

They followed her down the hall to Grace’s room, and stepped inside. She had soot on her cheek and forehead, and an oxygen tube running into her nose. She reached out with both hands as soon as she saw them approaching her bed. They took turns leaning down to kiss her.

Suddenly Grace pulled her hands away and grabbed her stomach, moaning. The nurse that had been in the room making notes on her chart turned at the sound. She rushed over and checked the monitors. “Mrs. MacMurphy, it seems you’re going into labor. I’ll get the doctor.”

* * * *

Travis and Mac took turns mopping Grace’s forehead and feeding her ice chips. It had been four hours since the contractions had started.

They had been sent out of the room when the doctor had come in to check Grace over. Both jaws dropped when they stepped outside. The waiting room was full of wives and off-duty firemen. They were in various positions around the room, some leaning against walls, some sprawled in chairs or on the floor.

“Thank you all for coming.” Mac spoke through the lump in his throat. He and Travis updated their friends, that were more like family, on Grace’s and the babies’ conditions. Bags of clean clothes, toiletries and food were shoved into their hands from different directions.

Some left as soon as they heard everyone was going to be okay; they had their own children to get home to. Some stayed until the nurse told Mac and Travis that they could go back in the room. A handful remained.

Over the next hours, Travis and Mac took turns going out to the waiting room to update the friends hanging out there. There was always a different group. Maybe they’d set up a rotation schedule.

Eight more hours passed before Grace started to push. Travis and Mac were on either side of the bed, holding Grace’s knees back.

“We have one healthy looking baby!” the doctor announced. There was a flurry of activity as he cut the baby’s cord and handed it off to the waiting nurse. She took the baby to one of the waiting mobile incubators in the corner of the room. “And here comes baby number two. Just a few more pushes, Grace, and you’ll be done. You’re doing wonderfully.”

Grace bore down and started pushing again. This baby was in a hurry. Barely three pushes later, the baby made its appearance. The doctor cut the cord and handed the baby to the other nurse that was on standby.

The doctor took care of Grace, and then went to check on the twins. She brought them, bundled in blankets, over to Grace and laid them in her arms. “Congratulations! You have two beautiful, healthy little girls!” she said. “Do you have names picked out yet?”

Mac looked down at the baby girl on his side of the bed and said, “Audrey Jo MacMurphy.”

Travis looked at the baby closest to him. “Shelby Jay MacMurphy.”

The room quieted and settled after the nurses wheeled the babies to the nursery. They would get bathed and checked over again while Mom got some rest.

Travis had gone out to the waiting room to give the news of the babies’ arrival to the family and friends waiting.

Grace’s eyes were starting to droop so Mac laid a soft kiss on her lips. “Rest, Gracey.”

“Wait. The house?” she whispered. With all the excitement of the babies’ arrival, she’d forgotten the reason she was in the hospital to begin with.

“Well, the good news is you’ll get the kitchen remodeled like you’ve been wanting,” Travis said as he walked back into the room. “The bad news is you’ll probably be getting new carpeting, paint, and a front door too.”

“But I liked my front door.” Grace sighed. “So, the house survived?”

“There’s some smoke and water damage, and the kitchen is destroyed, but yeah, the house is still standing. We were lucky.”

“Do they know a cause yet?” Mac wanted to know.

“It looks like lightning struck the line going into the house, and it caused a power surge. The coffee pot started the fire.”

Grace yawned and shifted on the bed. “I didn’t think to unplug it before I went to bed. I’m sorry.”

“Nothing for you to be sorry for. The storm didn’t start until after you were already in bed. It was more lightning than thunder and rain, so you wouldn’t have heard it. Though I might sue the company that put in the lightning rod.”

"My door, my carpets, all my furniture…” Grace sighed.

“It’s only things, Grace,” said Travis. "At least we got you out before something happened to you or our girls.” He kissed her and pulled up the blanket to tuck around her. “Time for you to get some sleep. The nurse said the chairs in here pull out so we can stay with you.”

Grace didn’t need much convincing. She was out like a light before they got the first chair extended.

* * * *

With the fire trauma and the issue with the Rh factor, Grace was kept at the hospital a few extra days. As soon as she and the babies were settled in the SUV, she insisted on going to the house. The ride home was quick. Mac and Travis exchanged smirks as they saw Grace’s brow furrow at the sight of several vehicles in front of the house. Neither said a word as they helped get her and the car seats out.

Walking up the sidewalk, they knew she’d noticed the new front door. It was similar to the one Mac had destroyed trying to get to Grace the night of the fire.

The door opened when they reached it. Tara, Jack’s wife, greeted them with a smile. “Welcome home!”

“Thank you,” Grace responded. She stepped inside and gasped. She’d been expecting the house to stink like old smoke, and black smudges on the walls. There was none of that.

She heard sounds coming from the kitchen and went to see. Jack, Hank, and Brock were hanging new cupboards on the wall. They turned to face her when the last was up and secure. “You’ll have to eat out for a few more days, but we’re almost done,” Jack said.

Grace started to cry. She was touched and overwhelmed with the way their friends had stepped up to help. Mac and Travis embraced her on either side while Tara and Libby cooed over Audrey and Shelby. “This is what family does,” Hank told her.

The extra people didn’t stay long after the family was home and settled. They knew Grace needed her rest, and this first day home was a special one for the new parents and their daughters.

Around dinnertime, there was a knock at the front door. Travis opened it to find the pizza deliveryman, laden with pizza, breadsticks, and salad. The bill and tip had already been taken care of, another gift for the new mom and dads.

Bedtime was surreal that night with the parents taking turns checking on the sleeping girls before they climbed into bed themselves. All three of them lay awake that first night for a long time, listening to the baby sounds coming through the baby monitor on the nightstand.

Epilogue

The twins were two months old today. Life had changed for everyone, but in a great way. Mac and Travis were wonderful fathers, participating in every part of the girls’ lives from changing diapers to midnight feedings. They helped with baths and made sure Grace got time to herself, so she didn’t get too stressed out when both guys were scheduled to work the same shift.

Lovemaking had been interrupted more than once for a crying baby, but no one seemed to mind much. Once the baby was settled, the sex resumed—or was postponed for another night.

They’d just gotten the twins down for the night when the scanner in the kitchen started squawking—Fire at North Elementary. All personnel report!

Mac and Travis kissed Grace goodbye. With urgency in the air, they booked for the door. Grace stood in the doorway and watched them go. “Be safe,” she whispered, right before she closed the front door.

*The End*

About the Author

http://traceysteinbachmichael.webs.com/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Tracey-Steinbach-also-writing-as-Tracey-Michael/255179941185173?fref=ts

I am known by a few names. At any one time I am known as Mom, Mommy or Mama, depending on which of my three children are wanting me. My husband of 19 years has his own names for me. But the name on my driver's license says Tracey. I work as a cost accountant at a local manufacturing plant.

I've been having a love affair with books since I was a teenager. I love to read. Romance novels are my favorite. I read traditional and non-traditional.

About 12 years ago, my husband introduced me to NHRA drag racing and I loved it. We try to go as often as possible. Mmmm...the smell of Nitro.

I love to bake when I have time.

Other Books by Tracey

Her Christmas Tree

Libby’s Fireman

Secret Cravings Publishing

www.secretcravingspublishing.com