The trip back home was serene and filled with warmth for Gale. Shawn in contrast, felt tumultuous. By the time they arrived home, the two little ones were already fast asleep in the back seat, slumped over in different directions.

"Just a moment ago they were chattering non-stop, now they're all curled up asleep," Gale chuckled. "No matter how clever they are, they're still just kids."

They were her little darlings. She opened the back door and gently lifted Nicole out. For some reason, when she lifted Nicole, she felt a bit unsteady and swayed.

"Careful," Shawn noticed and reached out, pulling her and their daughter into his embrace.

Gale leaned securely against him. "With you here, how could I fall?"

"No worries, maybe Nicole's just gotten heavier as she's grown. I'm having trouble carrying her now," Gale said.

"Let me."

She tilted her chin. "You take Joshua. I can manage for this short walk, really."

"I can handle both," Shawn replied.

"Yeah, yeah, I know you're strong."

S