Page 127 of Jax & Knox

The kids grumble but don't push.

After breakfast, Jax and Knox handle the cleanup while I get the kids dressed and ready for the day.

It's a well-oiled machine at this point.

We've learned how to move around each other, how to anticipate each other's needs, how to parent as a team.

It wasn't always easy.

There were hard days. Sleepless nights. Moments when I doubted myself, when the old fears crept back in.

But they were always there.

Steady. Strong. Unwavering.

By mid-morning, we're loading the kids into the SUV.

Today is a big day.

Steele and Erica are renewing their vows at Perdition, and the entire Iron Reapers family will be there.

It's been five years since Justin was dealt with. Five years since I stood in that warehouse and told him he had no power over me anymore.

Five years since I became an official Old Lady.

And in those five years, everything has changed.

Jax and Knox's landscaping business has exploded. They've got a full crew now, multiple contracts with the city and local businesses, and a reputation for quality work that's brought in clients from all over the state.

My boutique has expanded too. I've got three locations now, one in Jackson, one in Ann Arbor, and one in Detroit. Plus a thriving online business that ships nationwide.

I'm not just surviving anymore.

I'm thriving.

And so are my babies.

When we pull up to Perdition, the parking lot is already packed with bikes and cars.

The clubhouse has been decorated with string lights and flowers. There's a long table set up outside with food, and music is already playing.

The kids tumble out of the SUV, and Owen immediately runs over to where Weston and Wyatt's kids are playing.

Olive follows, always the responsible one, keeping an eye on her younger siblings.

Jax scoops up Maisie, and Knox grabs the twins.

We walk inside together, and the moment we do, we're surrounded by family.

Bella is the first to reach us, her arms open wide. "There are my grandbabies!"

The kids squeal and run to her, and she scoops them up one by one, kissing their faces and making them giggle.

Switch is right behind her, grinning. "Took you long enough."

"Traffic," Knox says dryly.

Switch laughs and claps him on the shoulder. "Sure it was."