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I took Bella out for a coffee several weeks after being formally introduced and we talked. I told her I wished I’d met her mother, that Tina sounded like she was a brave and loving woman.
“Thank you. I miss her so damn much.” Bella shared, then told me some of her life journey.
I asked if we could be friends and told her I didn’t want to and could never replace her mom.
A few tears later, I rubbed my belly and said, “Actually, I could do with advice on becoming a mother.”
“The hardest bit of being pregnant for me was having lost mom. Blake and Dad were great, but I was surrounded by men until Payton and Molly met my brothers.”
I chuckled.
“Thanks for doing this. It must be hard stepping into our family. We are all so close.”
I nodded, not telling her about some of the tears I’d shared with Ward.
“Hang in there,” he’d said, solid as a rock.
We both knew we couldn’t force Bella to accept me. In the end, I had to put my big girl panties on and speak to her one-on-one.
“I didn’t like Dad being alone but then seeing him with you instead of Mom made me sad. Which is selfish.”
“It’s not,” I said. “It’s natural.”
“Well, I’m glad it’s you,” Bella said and as she hugged me, I cried.
“Sorry. Pregnant.” I pointed at my belly.
Ward walked in, having planned to pick me up, and stood watching us—not that Bella could see—and the emotion on his face stole my heart.
Like he hadn’t already.
Many months on, now both our families sit full of turkey and laughter while the fire roars in the vast living room. I reach for Max, needing to put him down so I can put my feet up.
Mom smiles at Ward and steps away.
What is going on?
“Um, can I have my baby, please.” I laugh awkwardly, staring between the two of them, confused.
Then Ward disappears.
I glance down and find him kneeling on the white rug in front of the fireplace.
I gasp, my hand flying to my mouth.
Everyone goes silent. Well, except Molly, who does a little squeal.
My eyes, however, are locked on my big, powerful, and loving man.
“Penelope, my sweetheart. My greatest surprise in life. Where did you come from?” Ward begins.
“I think you know,” my father says, and everyone laughs.
Ward smirks but doesn’t look away.
Oh my god, is this happening?
I wipe my hands down the front of my red woolen dress and feel them get clammy all over again.