Page 53 of King

King snorted. “Baby, the whole damn town is buzzing about this party. I’m pretty sure we’re going to have more people than we expect.”

Ella exhaled, some of the tension leaving her shoulders. “You really think it’s going to go well?”

King cupped her cheek, rubbing his thumb against her soft skin. “Iknowit is. And I couldn’t be prouder of you, baby.”

Her eyes shimmered, and a slow smile spread across her lips. “You mean that?”

King chuckled, shaking his head. “Damn right, I do. Look at everything you’ve done, Ella. You put this together, you worked your ass off for it, and now the whole town’s coming out becauseyoucare enough to make sure these families get what they need.” He tipped her chin up slightly, staring down at her. “I couldn’t be prouder to call you mine.”

Ella’s breath hitched, her fingers clutching at the front of his cut.

“There’s something else I wanna ask you,” he said, letting his hand trail down to her waist.

Ella blinked. “What, Daddy?”

King exhaled, his gaze steady. “Move in with me, baby. Permanently.”

For a split second, Ella stared at him like she couldn’t process the words. Then, suddenly, she gasped loudly before launching herself into his arms with so much force that he had to take a step back to keep his balance.

“Yes!” she squealed, her legs wrapping around his waist.

King let out a deep laugh, catching her with ease as she peppered kisses all over his face.

“Well, damn,” he teased. “Didn’t think you’d bethatexcited.”

Ella pulled back, grinning ear to ear. “Are you kidding?Of courseI’m excited. I want to be with youevery day, Daddy. I mean, I’ve pretty much been living with you anyway.”

It was true. He had only taken her home every couple of days to grab more clothes or whatever she needed, but she hadn’t slept at her place since they’d become official.

He chuckled, brushing his nose against hers. “Then it’s settled, Little one.”

She sighed happily, nuzzling against his neck. “I love you, Daddy.”

King held her tightly, breathing her in, knowing without a doubt that he had everything he’d ever wanted right there in his arms. “I love you, too, dollface. Now, take a breath, and let’s get this party started, yeah?”

TWENTY-THREE

ELLA

Ella practicallybouncedacross the compound, barely able to contain the excitement bubbling inside her. She had to tell someone. The news was practically exploding from her.

She spotted Remi, Harper, Carlee, Ivy, Molly, and the rest of the Littles gathered near the dessert table, setting out trays of cookies and cupcakes, chatting animatedly as they worked.

“I have big news,” Ella practicallyshoutedas she skidded to a stop in front of them.

The girls turned to her in surprise before their eyes widened in anticipation.

“What? What is it?” Remi shrieked, immediately grabbing her hands.

Ella grinned so hard her cheeks ached. “I’mmoving inwith King.”

A split second of silence—thenchaos.

The Littlesscreamedexcitedly, jumping up and down, clapping their hands, and bombarding her with hugs.

“Oh my gosh!” Harper practically tackled her in a hug. “You get tolivehere now? Like, for real? We’ll be able to hang out and have slumber parties when our Daddies are on shift!”

Ella giggled, hugging her back. “Oh my gosh, it’s going to be so fun.”

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