Usual disclaimer: I own only the characters you do not recognize. I write for fun and relaxation. Hope you enjoy the story.

No Beta so please forgive my mistakes. Please read and review.

Daddy 5

The peaceful days of fall pushed into early winter. Winter in Trenton usually was cold and blustery; often there was snow or an occasional blizzard. Those were the worst winters. Days of snow with the roads closing and traffic at a standstill. It was too early to think about that. It was only Thanksgiving, but the day was still cloudy, grey and cold. In New Jersey, one could never predict what the weather would be for Thanksgiving. This year it was cold.

Steph went about the day before Thanksgiving at home. She had taken the day off from Rangeman to prepare the house for a festive dinner. Ranger worked in the morning and came home early in the afternoon to spend time with Lottie.

Steph had decorated the house with candles of orange, yellow and rust, flowers in fall colors, and autumn leaves. Their home looked beautiful. As soon as Carlota arrived home from school, shed wanted to help with the decorations. An orange and rust table cloth and, sapphire blue napkins spruced up the table. A golden piece of paper around a pencil, tied with a sprig of rosemary and a blue ribbon sat above each plate so guests could share what they were thankful for. Between the appetizers and the meal, each person picked a paper out of the bowl theyd all been placed in and read the thought aloud, guessing, course who wrote it.

Carlota came home so excited she was about to burst, Im so happy! Its Turkey Day, Mommy. After she washed her hands, she got right to work placing napkins and silverware on the table as she talked about what she learned that day. She was a constant whirlwind in motion. Steph had saved setting the table for her; after all shed picked her favorite turkey napkins and plates at the store. Lottie loved holidays when all her uncles and aunts came to visit. They showered her with attention and listened to her every story.

Ranger walked in and, before he could drop his keys, she was telling him about the worms in the butterfly case that were no longer worms but Crispalits. Ranger raised an eyebrow as he took it in.

I think you mean chrysalis, Lottie. In a few weeks, that will change again and they will become beautiful butterflies.

Yes, Daddy! That what the teacher said. You know everything, just like my teacher. Steph couldnt help but chuckle as she walked up behind him.

What else do you know Batman?

Ill demonstrate later, as he swept her into his arms. My two Babes have done a great job with all the decorations, the house is beautiful.

With turkey and all the trimmings planned everyone would have their favorite foods to eat. Of course, theyd be perfect; Ella would be preparing the meal. Steph had accepted the fact shed never be a cook, but she could provide a beautiful place to enjoy it. She and Ranger also picked the wine and this year the sparkling cider as well. Stephs blue eyes sparkled when she thought about the reason why.

Ill tell him at dinner. Hell be so surprised. I hope hes as happy as I am. We never talked about more children; Lottie was a surprise and weve built our life around her. We used protection when Lottie was conceived and it failed, so we never used it again just letting nature take its course.

Thanksgiving morning, Lottie woke up much earlier than Steph wanted. Babe, you sleep a while longer and Ill take Lottie on my run. He left as she burrowed into the pillow. Two hours later, Lottie bounced on the bed, insisting that Steph get up. Slowly she made her way to the shower, only to find the tub filled with hot water and bubbles with rose petals floating and scented candles lit. As she stepped into the bath, her Cuban Sex God smiled around the door frame, would you like your coffee now or later?

Later, please. What is this, Batman?

You have worked so hard this week that Lottie and I thought you deserved a treat. She did the roses.

Later, in the kitchen, there were Boston Crmes, coffee, and a single red rose by her plate, along with lots of kisses.

Despite the calming morning, the house was a flurry of activity by noon. Ella and Luis arrived with the food and the table was finished. Everything looked perfect when the guests arrived.

After everyone was seated, Ranger stood at the head of the table, Thank you for joining us for this Thanksgiving celebration. All of you have blessed our lives and our home. Lottie has something special planned today. Lottie, will you explain?

Lottie picked up her little piece of paper, You write your thankfulness on the paper, and then we read them.

Ranger and Steph each wrote on their rolled up paper and placed it in the bowl, with everyone following. After the appetizers were cleared away and the turkey was presented, Steph held the bowl for Carlota to pick the first paper and helped her read it; they all agreed with the sentiment and laughed when it ended with the littlest turkey at the table.

So it went around the table, finally coming back to Steph. She told everyone she was thankful for friends, family, food and love as she took Rangers hand and placed it on her stomach.

Rangers eyes grew wide and he did a fish impression, Steph just nodded her head.

Ranger stood and pulled her out of the chair, swinging her around and kissing her soundly. Im thankful for great friends and family, for the love of my wife and daughter, for our continued prosperity. Im especially thankful for our growing family. With watery eyes, he placed a hand and his lips on her tummy.

The whole table cheered and they all felt very blessed. It was a Thanksgiving to remember.

Everyone talked at once, they were all very thankful.

Word count 1009