Chapter 45 - Christmas Part 3 of 3

Leroy and Kaitlin packed up the oldest kids leaving Jordan, Hailey and Sam with a sitter and headed to the vacant lot where their new home would soon be built.

Ben and Dakota made a huge snowman after making snow angels that marked the spot where they wanted to have their new rooms.

Leroy showed them how to make an igloo and after a couple of hours, it was complete and everyone was exhausted.

Finally, tired, hungry and cold they settled down to warm themselves around the fire-pit, the frozen river and greenbelt that would be their view their backdrop. Leroy told stories while they roasted hot-dogs and marshmallows before heading over to the Winter Festival.

At the festival, the main goal was ice skating. Ben had never tried and refused. It seemed everyone had a partner except him. Kaitlin opted out because she needed to stay with Maddy. She watched laughing as Brooke totally out-skated Reese.

Leroy, also a pro, helped Dakota learn. She was a natural.

The two of them stole the show.

After ice-skating, Reese and Leroy tried their hand at snowboarding.

Finally, before heading home, everyone piled into the picture tent for the obligatory family picture. Except Ben. No one noticed he wasn't there until after they got the picture. Kaitlin panicked but found him getting hot chocolate. She wasn't sure why he took off on his own - she told them they were getting the picture and then were heading home.  Everyone made it home exhausted, happy and a little sore from overworking muscles they hadn't used in awhile.

* * * * * * *

A week later, Christmas was upon them. Leroy spent the night so he would be there early to help. Leroy and Kaitlin got up super early and padded into the living room, still in their pajama's relishing the calm before the storm.


Sitting there in the quiet early morning darkness in front of the lit tree, Kaitlin was melancholic, thinking about last Christmas.

Leroy must have noticed and asked, "Penny for your thoughts."

Kaitlin took a deep breath and let it out gathering her thoughts before answering. “So much has changed for me in the past year," she said with a faraway sound to her voice. “Last Christmas, I was devastated when I discovered I was almost 5 months pregnant with Hailey. I sat in front of this very tree in the tiny apartment you leased me crying. I never thought anything good could come from making the same mistake again. But she was the catalyst that brought us together and now I am grateful to have both of you in my life.

Frankly I don’t know why you stayed with the 'crazy lady'. I am glad you did and now we also have Dakota. Plus, I am a grandmother of two sweet little boys and Reese is engaged to married. I just can't believe how much my world has changed in a year's time.”

“A good change - I hope,” said Leroy smiling.

“Definitely good. You helped make it better,” she said matching his smile. “Leroy, I want to formally adopt Dakota once we get married.”

His smile grew. “Then you are accepting my proposal?” he asked.

"Hmmm,” she said surprised, “I guess I am. I was afraid before. Therapy has helped. Dr. Shea is good. Oh, ummm, I told her you would come with me next time. Is that okay?”

Leroy pulled her into his lap and started peppering kisses all over her face and neck and talking excitedly ignoring everything else. “You just said Yes! Not yes with conditions, but YES! You are going to be my wife. I love you. The best Christmas gift ever!”

Kaitlin couldn't help but giggle. “Shhh - you will wake up the kids!” she reprimanded between his kisses.

Then as if on queue, Hailey started crying. Kaitlin sat up in Leroy's lap. “Uh-oh, too late. Quiet time’s over,” she said.

“Let me get her,” said Leroy as they both stood up.

Instead of walking straight into the bedroom he stopped and turned back to her. “Kate...” he said with a look on his face that made her knees weak, “I love you sweetheart." The emotion in his voice perfectly matched the look on his face. She thought he was going to kiss her again, but Hailey's cry broke the spell and he turned and went to tend to their daughter.

As Kaitlin watched her future husband walk out of the room. she was so emotional she almost cried. This  really was going to be her forever. Merry Christmas to me too, she thought and smiled as she made her way to the bathroom to get dressed for the long day ahead.

* * * * * * *

Hailey's cry must have been the signal that it was time to get up because the whole apartment full of kids began to stir. Kaitlin and Leroy helped get them fed and dressed while Maddy, Ben and Dakota kept asking when it was time to open their gifts.

Brooke and her family arrived not long after so they decided to go ahead and exchange gifts. 

 Ben didn't like the gift Kaitlin got him. He said it was a baby gift. He wanted the newest racing game. "Mr. Reid would have got it for me!" he said and sulked off. Kaitlin was embarrassed by his behavior but didn't want to cause a scene so she let him leave.

 Of course, Dakota loved the dolls that Leroy gave her.

After dinner, Kaitlin and Brooke's father sat together and had a nice talk. He thanked her for all they had done to make sure Brooke got the education she needed and his grandchild was well taken care of.  

Leroy even managed to lure Kaitlin under the mistletoe. Of course she didn't mind at all. With the exception of Ben's little fit, it had been a wonderful day. 

******

After everyone left and the kids were finally in bed, it was once again just Leroy and Kaitlin in the living room sitting in front of the tree much the same way the started the day. 

“What a fun day, but I am exhausted!” said Kaitlin as she sat down in the floor leaning up against the couch.

Leroy slid down beside her. “It was nice. Without a doubt the most wonderful Christmas I have ever had. Kate, I have been thinking. I want to give Reese and Brooke my house as a wedding/graduation gift.”

No! thought Kaitlin in a panic. That house was everything to her - wasn't it everything to him too? He couldn't give it away. She imagined it as a get away for the two of them. “Absolutely not!” she said adamantly.

“Why?” he asked looking shocked.

Kaitlin got up and paced back and forth. Why? He asked why. Doesn't he understand? “Are you crazy?" she said irritated, "That house is your home. You built it. You can't just give it away. And besides, they need to earn whatever comes to them. No.”

“Hey...I shouldn't have brought it up," replied Leroy sounding a bit nervous, "It's too soon. Forget it."

“No, I won’t forget it," she shot back a little hysterical, "And what do you mean too soon? Too soon for the crazy lady that loses touch with reality? No. That house, it’s your home, it's where we...it's...it's... where you…” she said now crying and motioning between the two of them.

“Kate - calm down. We can talk about it later,” pleaded Leroy as he stood up to go to her.

“No! I won't calm down. You would be giving away - I don't know. What did I do? Why? Tell me now!” she demanded. She knew she was breathing too fast and could feel the darkness begin to creep into the outer edges of her vision, but she couldn't help it. He didn't understand - she felt like he just rejected her. She didn't want to leave but she didn't know how to stop it.

Leroy reached for her and she shrugged away from him so he pulled back and said, “Okay. Okay. We can talk now. But, baby, you have to be calm first. Please Kate. Slow down.”

After she shrugged off the hands that touched her, she was still breathing too fast and couldn't think. NO! What am I supposed to do? she thought. This time when strong arms went around her from behind and held her tight, she couldn't get away, so she went limp preparing for what might come. Then she heard his voice, soft and sweet, “Kate, babe, I'm right here. Deep breaths for me okay?”

Kaitlin nodded her head and tried to slow down her breathing taking deep breaths. Now she remembered what she was supposed to do. Breathe. After a few minutes she calmed down enough that she was able to talk. “I'm sorry," she said quietly, "It's your home. I had no right to tell you what to do with it.”

He turned her around in his arms and held her. “No Kate, you have every right to your opinion," he said, "Don't forget that. Even though we aren't married we share our lives as if we are. We will be married soon though. Baby you said Yes this morning. Remember? So, Kate, that means we make decisions together.”

“I don't know what happened just now. It felt like you didn't ….and the walls started closing in...and...” she said trying to explain.

Leroy kissed the top of her head, “Shhh. Stop." he said in a calming tone, "You almost left me, but baby, you didn’t. You were able to get it under control and stay with me. You did good. Let's sit down and start over, or we can wait. You were stressed today even though we had a great time. You put a lot of pressure on yourself to see to it that everything was perfect. There are two of us now. It's not all on you anymore.”

They sat on the couch and Leroy pulled her close. Kaitlin melted into him. “Mmm,” said Leroy,

“That's better. I love the way you feel snuggled up against me. Now, do you want to tell me why you really don't want me to give the kids the house - and not the bullshit answer that they need to earn it.”

He knew her too well. There was that, they did need to earn it, but that wasn't what upset her and he knew it. Observant man, she thought.

Kaitlin let out a slow breath before trying to put her feelings into words. “It feels like losing a piece of us. The night I stayed with you was pivotal for me. I realized you loved me as much as I love you. You were so sweet. You showed me what life with you could be. Not just the sex, but all of it. The confessions, the talks, just being with you. It was easy. You made me breakfast and gave me a toothbrush. I guess I just thought it would always be there. Maybe as an office for you. And I felt like you wanted to give it all away like maybe those memories weren't as important to you as you are to me.”

Leroy looked pained for a second before he replied. “Sweetheart, that night was everything to me too. I knew you were it for me way before then, but that night solidified everything. I knew you wanted to be with me as much as I wanted you in my life." Then a devilish grin split his face and he added, "And -  um-uh - don't forget the next morning. That was pretty damn hot.”

Kaitlin couldn’t help but laugh as she hit him on the arm. “Perv!” she laughed out.

“Hey, I didn't hear any complaints from you at the time. So Kate,” he said conspiratorially wiggling his eyebrows, “When we build the master suite, you know we will have to christen the walls, right?”

“Leroy!” exclaimed Kaitlin glad he couldn't see the blush that turned her face bright red.

“Sorry babe, you make me crazy. The point is, I feel the same way. That house is full of memories. I did most of the labor that went into it. Actually, that's why I wanted Reese and Brooke to have it. We won't need it after we get your - no - our house built and we are married. Hell, we barely need it now, but it will still be a part of our family. And besides, it’s close to the lot where we are going to build.”

Our family, thought Kaitlin, he had her with those two words. They really were going to be a real family not just a rag-tag group of people spending time together. Hopefully, by next Christmas her name would be Kaitlin Chapman. Finally she agreed, “Okay, but they will either lease it or buy it. They aren't getting it handed to them.”

Leroy turned her face to his. “Deal,” he said then kissed her sweetly.

Kaitlin couldn't help but pull him closer, parting her lips inviting him inside turning the kiss passionate.

Leroy came up for air. “Wanna test the wall in the bathroom?” he rasped out huskily.

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Chapter 45 - Christmas Part 2 of 3

The apartment was quiet. The kids were finally kissed goodnight and tucked in. Leroy and Kaitlin headed back into the living area and sat together on the couch. Kaitlin looked at him apologetically and took his hand. "I'm sorry we didn't get to see the lot today," she said quietly.

“That's okay, we can all go tomorrow since it's Saturday and we can make a fun day out of it," said Leroy with a small smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.

Kaitlin sat back and looked at him with concern. "What's wrong?" she asked.

Leroy lifted Kaitlin's hand and kissed it before responding. "We need to spend more time together as a family. Ben worries me. He is rejecting us - well me - again. I don't know if it's jealousy or what, but I really need to try to build a better relationship with him, Reese too for that matter.”

Kaitlin suddenly got quiet. “Shhh. Listen,” she whispered, “Is that Dakota crying?”

Leroy’s face fell even more. “Yes. I thought she was asleep. Want me to go?”

“No, you relax, let me,” said Kaitlin as she got up and walked into Dakota's little cubby.

* * * * * * * * *

Dakota was sitting up in bed curled into a ball and crying. Kaitlin walked over and turned on the bedside lamp. “Dakota? What's wrong sweetheart?” she asked.

Dakota looked up at her and sniffed, "I don't want to have orange hair."

"Why would you think you will have orange hair?" asked Kaitlin.

"Since you are my mommy now, my hair might grow back orange like yours,” she said still crying.

Kaitlin bit back a grin at the same time as her heart broke in a thousand pieces for Dakota. She sat down next to her and pulled her close. “No, no baby," Kaitlin assured her, "Did Ben tell you that?"

Dakota shook her head. Thank god for small favors. It was just her young imagination working overtime, thought Kaitlin. She continued to hold and rub Dakota's back and said as gently as she could, "Honey, your first mother, Candace, she gave you your hair when you were born and you will always have that part of her no matter what. It will always be soft as cotton and black as night, just like it was before.”

Dakota wiped the tears from her eyes, sat up straight and sighed dramatically while rolling her eyes, “Thank God - Goodness!” she said as she slapped her hands over her mouth for swearing. Then she said apologetically, “I like your hair Mommy K, but I am glad I get to keep my hair. How much longer before it comes back?”

Kaitlin helped Dakota lay back down. “Only a couple of months," she said, "Now, get to sleep baby, tomorrow is a special day. We are going on an outing to see where our new home will be built. We are having a cookout. Maybe the girls will have a snowball fight against they boys. Maybe even build an igloo,” she said and tucked Dakota in again. She adjusted the cap she wore to bed, bent down and kissed her goodnight.

* * * * * * * * *

When Kaitlin walked back in, Leroy handed her a glass of wine. She smiled gratefully and took the glass from him taking a sip. “I guess this is for the Reid discussion?”

Leroy smiled sheepishly, “Yes and I figured today was stressful enough that we could both use a drink. Is Dakota okay?”

“Yes. Poor thing. She is actually handling everything like a trooper. She was afraid that her hair would grow back like mine since I am now her ‘mother’. It just broke my heart.”

Leroy frowned. “All thanks to the Nielsen family," he growled, "She should still be with Candy.”

Kaitlin shook her head. “What are you talking about?" she asked incredulously, "You know Candy was hinting for me to take her before that even happened so don't you feel guilty over taking her away from her birth mother." Then Kaitlin laughed a little, "Ha! Look at me telling YOU not to feel guilty. Talk about the  pot calling the kettle black."

That made Leroy smile. "Progress?" he asked.

Kaitlin looked at Leroy as she thought about what he just asked, Progress. It was progress - wasn't it? She hadn't felt afraid to confront him about his feelings - tell him he was wrong in what he thought nor did she assume the blame for it to make him feel better. Maybe her birthday date did more for their relationship than she thought or maybe it was the sessions with Dr. Shea - probably both. Finally she answered him and her thoughtful expression turned into a loving smile, "Yes baby, progress."

Leroy held out his glass in a toast, "To progress then."

"To progress," said Kaitlin and clinked her glass with Leroy's.

After Kaitlin took a drink she remembered what they were talking about and asked, "But what about Reid? Angie told me he was arrested, but released on bail plus he had a restraining order to keep away from you and I.”

Leroy got serious and pointed to the couch. “Let's sit down."

After they settled on the couch, he said, "Reid came to see me on your birthday.”

Kaitlin was stunned. If what Angie said was true, he wasn't supposed to be near either of them. “Why? How?” she asked.

Leroy swallowed hard before answering. “Kate, I think he is innocent. I've been thinking a lot about what he told me when he came in and based on that, it makes some perverted sort of sense that he didn't start the fire - along with some other things.”

“What…” was all she could get out. Of all the things he could have said about Reid, she didn't for one second think it might be that.

Leroy began to recant the encounter and what Reid had said. When he got to the part about Reid losing people he loved and mentioned Dr. Shea she stopped him.

“Wait! He used to date Shea? As in Dr. Shea?”

“Yes. When I got arrested, everyone that knew me felt like it was all Reid’s doing. He had the most to gain. They knew me - knew I wasn't into that shit. But let me explain.


I already told you Shea and I were close, living in the same foster home when we were younger. Some of the kids in school were picking on her and I stepped in and put a stop to it. I became like a big brother to her and she became my shadow. I sort of see Ben and Dakota like that. You know.

Anyway, Reid and I had become good friends playing sports together from the time we were about 12 or 13 all the way through our junior year. He was right in his note. We were best friends - until the my arrest. Since Shea was my shadow she knew Reid and had a secret crush on him. Finally when we were in high school she blossomed and he noticed her as more than my annoying tag-along. They started dating and I couldn't have been happier for her. She and Reid were inseparable.

He and Shea probably would have gotten married right out of high school or least moved in together to go to college. She was in advanced classes so they were hoping he would get a football scholarship and she would follow him and go to school wherever he was.

At the beginning of our senior year when it became clear that I would be captain of the team and likely be the starter and he my backup, I got framed for robbing the store and put in Juvie. Of course he became Captain and got the starting position. My friends said he set me up. Why would anyone else do it? I listened to them and so did Shea even though Reid insisted he didn't do it. He acted like he really thought I did it too and that pissed me the hell off. He thought I was influenced by the gangs that were part of the foster system. Shea left him over it. It broke his heart bad. He changed after that. But I didn't give a shit. I thought he deserved it for what he did to me and our friendship. I thought our friendship meant nothing to him.”

Kaitlin said quietly, “She knows about Reid and I...but she never said a word.”

“She wouldn't have. Despite our impromptu reunion hug the day you met her, she is professional and wouldn't judge you or tell you something that would make you uncomfortable.”

Kaitlin was reeling. Innocent? They were responsible for maybe making an innocent man go to prison. One that Ben looked up to. Her brother-in-law - Ben's Uncle. But how could that be? He broke into Leroy's bar and threatened Hailey. Kaitlin sat there for a few minutes totally numb.

Finally she spoke. “You believe him I take it, that his mother framed you back then and tried to frame you again and this time for money - Reid's fathers money - so he and I could be together?  You're right, that's twisted and perverted. You know him better than I do, so if you believe he is innocent, I have to believe you are right. How do we prove it Leroy? He can't go to prison if he is innocent.”

“That's what has me worried," said Leroy with a sigh, "Miranda is obviously ruthless and always has been. She won't let her precious son go to prison. I am worried what she might pull to try and redirect the evidence back onto me. I was very nearly the one that was charged. That wire was the only thing that saved my ass. But now it might not be enough if he really is innocent. And you know her husband is the Chief of Police. I wouldn't put it past him to pull something dirty to get Reid off. But if she was responsible, she needs to pay.”

Kaitlin felt a shiver go down her spine. That woman did give off evil vibes. Not like her twin sister Cassie, even though Cassie was manipulative, she didn't seem evil. In fact she adored her grandchildren and always doted on them. “How can we be sure?”

Leroy pulled her close to him. “Let me talk to my P.I." he said, "We have been focusing on Reid. Maybe that was we came up empty handed. Now that we are pretty sure it's Miranda, then hopefully we can find something concrete.”

“Should we talk to Reid?”

“It's risky since he has a restraining order Kate, but maybe I can use a go between and reach out to him. It's just that - it is his mother we are talking about. I don't know how happy he will be that we are doing this.”

Kaitlin agreed. “Then let's wait and see what you can find out,” she said.

“You okay if I leave tonight? I have a lot I need to get done at home and I can get the ball rolling with my P.I. Then tomorrow we can all go to your - no - our new lot and have a family outing. Maybe go to the winter festival afterwards.”

Kaitlin sighed as tears threatened to fall. She really wanted him to stay, but understood. “Okay. What time should I expect you tomorrow?”

“Not too late, maybe by 10:00 am?”

They both stood up and Leroy pulled her into a hug. When he did Kaitlin couldn't hold back and began to sob into his shoulder.


“Aww shit baby, don't cry,” he pleaded.

“I'm sorry. This was so much to take in and I really don't want you to go.”

“I gotta. The sooner we start…”

Kaitlin sniffed and put her finger over his mouth cutting off his words. “Shhhh. I understand. Go now. I love you.”  Then she leaned in and kissed him and pushed him towards the door.

After Leroy left, Kaitlin went into the kitchen and grabbed the last glass of wine. She sat down at the table to think about all that he had told her. There was no way she could sleep - her mind was working overtime. Then she suddenly had an idea that would surely take her mind off of everything. She would decorate for Christmas, now, while the kids were asleep and surprise them in the morning.

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Chapter 45 - Christmas Part 1 of 3

Rolled 10 - Lice - Ugh

Kaitlin's birthday had been wonderful. She had never felt so desired and loved. Not only did Leroy take her to a 5 star resort, he surprised her with the deed to a piece of property they had looked at a few days earlier. He laid it on the table between them, fully expecting her to accept it.

Kaitlin refused. She couldn't accept it as a gift and after a little friendly negotiation he agreed that as soon as she paid for it they could start construction. He got a deal. It was only $1,600 and was on the river not far at all from his house. It was the last lot left. It was small so building would be a bit of a challenge but Leroy could help with that.

Of course Leroy also wanted to help with the building costs. But until she was divorced Kaitlin insisted she had to pay for everything. Once again they compromised. As soon as they were married, he would add an upstairs suite for them. She knew it was probably silly but this was what got her through each and every day since leaving her husband almost 2 years ago - creating a real home for her children. She needed to makeup for all the harm she had caused them. She had come this far and needed to see it all the way through.

* * * * * * *

This afternoon Leroy and Kaitlin planned to surprise the kids and take them to see the property. It was going to be a Christmas present for all of them. Their own home.

Sadly, their plans changed when Kaitlin got home from work. She walked in and found Dakota and Ben arguing.

When Dakota saw Kaitlin she sat in the chair and put her head in her hands crying. Kaitlin sat down with her. “What's wrong baby?” she asked.

Dakota handed Kaitlin a note from the school. Lice was going around in their classroom and the school nurse said she had them. She needed to have her head shaved. Kaitlin's heart sank. She was pretty sure Dakota didn't have lice but if she did it would be hard to get rid of them any way except shaving.


Kaitlin looked sympathetically at the 5-year-old. “Okay. Well then, we are going shopping. Hats are all the rage - right? We’ll pick out a few. As soon as Daddy Roy gets here we can leave.”

“Can I go?” asked Ben.

Kaitlin looked at Ben surprised then at Dakota. This was her call. By the horrified look on her face the answer was a resounding no.


"Come here sweetie," said Kaitlin and gathered her in her arms. Then she said to Ben, "You know what Ben, this is a chick thing, why don't you hang out with Mr. Leroy. Maybe show him the new car you won in your racing game.”

Ben looked dejected but thankfully didn't argue.

As soon as Leroy arrived, Kaitlin broke the news to him. He gave Dakota a sympathetic smile and a hug as the pair left him in charge of the rest of their brood.

* * * * * * * *

Kaitlin and Dakota arrived home an hour later with a couple of hats.  Thankfully today had been the last day of school before the winter break and she would have a couple of weeks to get used to wearing a hat before she had to go back.

“It's time Dakota. Let's go into the bathroom. We will get it over with and put on your new hat so no one will see.”

After they were done, she looked in the mirror and started to cry.

Kaitlin held her until she stopped and then helped place the hat on her head and told her to look again. She got a small smile out of her this time. “Better?” asked Kaitlin.

Dakota nodded her head. “Thanks Mommy K,” she said sadly.

“I had fun shopping with you today," said Kaitlin, "We should so that more often. Come on, let's go show Daddy Roy your new hat.”

Dakota walked out of the bathroom bashfully.

“Good choice Dakota,” said Leroy smiling, “I like it. Maybe you can wear it even after your hair grows back.”

“It's going to grow back?” asked Dakota.

Ben started laughing. “Yes, doofus! I told you so!” he said righteously.

“Ben! Don't laugh at your sister or call her names!” scolded Leroy as Dakota started to tear up again.

“She's not my sister! And you're not my Dad!” retorted Ben at being reprimanded by Leroy.

“Ben!” exclaimed Kaitlin, “Apologize to both Mr. Leroy and Dakota right now and then go to your room!”

“Fine!” grumbled Ben spat out, “I'm sorry.” Ben turned and stomped out mumbling, “I don't want to be in here anyway.”

Maddy was watching and noticed Dakota getting upset. She toddled over to her and took her hand, “Play house?” she asked.

“Sure,” said Dakota and allowed herself to be led over to the dollhouse by Maddy and the two of them were quickly playing house.

Leroy and Kaitlin just looked at each other. “I'm sorry about Ben,” said Kaitlin, “I think his feelings got hurt when Dakota didn't want him to go with us.”

“Yeah, he pretty much sulked the whole time you two were gone. Do you think I should go and try to talk to him? Reassure him that I am not trying to be his Dad?” asked Leroy.

“Let's see how he is tomorrow. Right now we need to get the girls to bed. Reese and Brooke put the boys down before they left,” said Kaitlin as she picked up Maddy.

“Okay. And then we need to talk," said Leroy as picked up Hailey from the playpen, "I have news about Reid.”

They walked into the bedroom followed by Dakota.

“Then it's true? He was charged?” asked Kaitlin as they put the two youngest girls in bed.

“Yes, but there is more," said Leroy as he leaned in and kissed his daughter. "Night baby girl," he said patting her head before walking over to Dakota's cubby, Kaitlin following.

He leaned in and kissed Dakota. "I love you little bug," he said.

Dakota sat up and giggled, "I'm not a bug Daddy Roy."

"Oh, yes, fairy princess. How silly of me," said Leroy.

"Nooo. I'm not really a fairy princess,"  replied Dakota.

"Ohh?" asked Leroy.

"I'm a giiirrrl!" she said drawing it out.

"Well then, goodnight my sweet girl," he said.

Kaitlin couldn't help but smile at his interaction with Dakota. He obviously adored his children. You would have thought Dakota had been his at birth.

Leroy turned around and looked at Kaitlin and whispered, "Come on. Let's go talk. I really need to tell you about Reid."

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