Thunderstruck (Ramsey Security #1)

After we move into the house, I decide we need a pet. Kids remain off the table, neither of us craving a tiny screaming version of us. A pet though is something we both want.

Of course, he wants a dog while I want a cat. We flip, and I win. Adopting a nearly year old female from the shelter, I name her Sherry after her "daddy." Troy pretends to hate the tabby cat, but she's always climbing on him, and he's a big softie when it comes to the ladies.

After Harlow gets pregnant, I feel a bit of pressure to have a baby too. Shelley doesn't bug me about it, but her friends often ask when we'll start our family. I finally tell them I'm barren, which makes them feel guilty. Shelley just rolls her eyes at the entire thing.

At the beginning of our marriage, Troy and I make a habit of visiting kid friendly places like the aquarium or zoo. We watch the families and wait for the baby urge to hit us. I used to believe kids were a given. Yet after a few hours at Harlow's new house with her babies, I'm ready to tear out my hair. I just can't deal with the noise.

"Let's not worry about it until you're thirty," Troy says one night while we sit outside in our hot tub.

I glance at the window where Sherry watches us. She hates her people to be so far away. Grinning at her big eyes, I nod at Troy's comment. No more zoo trips until I'm thirty.

At thirty, we get a dog instead of having a baby. Troy names the Puggle puppy Ham after me. I love the little dog and his big sis Sherry. I frigging adore their daddy too. I have great friends, my sister, and her kids. My heart is full, and Troy never brings up kids again.

We settle into a good life. As their first high profile client, I often take credit for the security company's success. After a few years, the company hires new contractors, allowing the owners to semi-retire. Eventually, Troy only takes jobs that will work with our relaxation schedule. We even begin traveling. Sometimes, we go with Rafael and Harlow. Other times, we join Shelley's family. For one weekend a month, we go away alone.

Every new place scares me, but Troy keeps me brave. We even take a cruise for our tenth wedding anniversary. Standing on the ship's deck and staring at the water, I remember the woman I was before Locke. She's a stranger now while the woman Troy first met is the weird friend I no longer invite to parties.

I once asked myself if I was really blessed enough to have Troy return to me. The answer was yes and remains yes even after all these years.

My name is Darla, and I'm finally at peace.