Page 52 of Bride Games

52

Emma

W ith full bellies after eating slow-cooked pot roast, carrots, and mashed potatoes, Emma loaded the dishwasher and instructed Lucy she had one hour to watch a show before bedtime.

Once Eli returned from taking out the trash, he led Emma to the couch. “I hope you don’t mind but I took some liberties with your schedule. I think your authors will understand. Besides, they know you’re on a limited schedule now, correct?”

“Yeah, they’ve been great. I sent a blast email to all of my clients explaining how busy I am—we are—in planning our wedding by ourselves.” Emma turned her body to face Eli on the couch. “Exactly what do you have in mind, fiancé?”

“Fiancé. I’ll never get tired of hearing that.” Eli winked. “Actually, husband sounds even better. I can’t wait until our wedding day.”

“Me neither.” Emma blew out her breath. “Please don’t get the wrong idea.” Emma held Eli’s face in her hands. “I love you so, so much. This is a dream come true for me, and for Lucy. The fact that you’ve embraced both of us and want to be a fam—” her voice cracked. “I hope you understand I’m not questioning any of that. Not even the tiniest amount. I don’t have any doubts, it’s just the preparation is?—”

“Exactly.” Eli kissed both of Emma’s cheeks. “It’s getting to you. I don’t like it that you’re stressed. This should be the happiest day of your life, of mine, and Lucy’s. But it’s overwhelming you. I think you need a break, that’s all.”

“A break? If anything, I need more time.” Emma’s brows knitted together. “What do you mean by a break?”

“A short break. Maybe just a little day trip. I’m still planning it.”

Emma grinned. “Okay, mystery man. A day off sounds like bliss.”

“Good. Meanwhile, mind if we start a game night tradition with Lucy? That’s a good way to be together—and to bring the stress level down.”

“You sound like the perfect man in a romance novel about now.” Emma kissed Eli. “I love that idea. What games should we start with? I have several in my laundry room: Uno, Old Maid, Yahtzee, Dominoes, Clue, Candyland, Checkers….”

“Old school. I love it. Let’s let Lucy decide.”

Once Lucy decided on Uno, the threesome sat at the kitchen table while Lucy attempted to shuffle the cards. Emma popped popcorn while Lucy told Eli the directions in great detail. Eli paid rapt attention as if he were learning a new language.

Emma put the popcorn in three small bowls, handed them each a napkin, and said, “Who goes first?”

“Me!” shouted Lucy, and game night was born.