Page 103 of Wicked Love

I’m not sure what tomorrow holds, but tonight I’ve got something I thought I’d lost forever—hope.

CHAPTER THIRTY

I’LL BE HOME FOR EASTER

POPPY

The moment we step onto the porch of my parents’ home, I get a wave of excitement and nerves. I’m so excited to see my family, to introduce them to Bowie and Becca, and so,sonervous to tell them about the baby. A wreath of spring flowers adorns the door and Becca leans in to touch them gently.

“Pretty,” she says.

I can hear my mom singing through theopen window. Beside me, Bowie holds Becca’s hand, and I think her excitement about being here is probably what has him anchored to the ground. Otherwise, he just might not be standing here. He has on his most stoic face and for a second, that wild, abandoned expression I only see on him when we’ve had sex comes to mind. I’d never know he was capable of that expression if I saw him right now.

We’ve seen each other every day since our date last week, but we haven’t slept together again. Our schedules have been busy and I think we’re both trying to pace ourselves. But that doesn’t mean I’m not craving him like crazy. I don’t know if pregnancy horniness can be a thing yet or if it’s just because it’s Bowie, but I think about himall the time.

I give him a reassuring smile. “You ready?”

He nods, and Becca says, “Ready!” in a bright chirp. She has no nerves about this whatsoever and her excitement is contagious. For me, anyway. Hopefully, Bowie will get there.

“They’re going to love you guys,” I tell them.

The door swings open before I can knock. Mom stands there, wearing a flour-dusted apron that’s covered with bunnies. Her eyes crinkle at the corners as she beams at us.

“You’re here!” she sings, pulling me into a quick hug before reaching out to greet Bowie and Becca.

Bowie clears his throat, but Mom doesn’t waste any time with formalities. She tucks a stray curl behind her ear and then holds her arms wide.

“Welcome! I’m so glad you’re here. Happy Easter!” she says.

Becca moves right into her arms, hugging her back. “I am Becca.”

“It’s lovely to meet you, Becca. I’m Jennifer, Poppy’s mom.”

“Wow,” Becca breathes. “You are a pretty mom.”

“Why, thank you. You’re so sweet.”

“You’re so sweet,” Becca repeats.

“And I’d recognize you anywhere, Bowie Fox,” Mom says.

Bowie steps into her outstretched arms and pats her on the back, while I try not to get pregnant again over how cute he is when he’s nervous. He smiles at me over her shoulder and already looks a little more relaxed. My mom has that effect on people.

We walk inside and Dad ambles out of the kitchen. His hair is graying at the temples, but otherwise he looks so young. My parents have more energy than I do.

He holds out his hand. “Bowie Fox,” he says loudly.

He’s always loud, while my mom’s voice is light and airy. They’re quite the pair.

“I’ve been looking forward to meeting you,” Dad says.

“It’s great to meet you, sir.”

“Call me Joshua. I’ve followed your career since your rookie season. Should’ve won Defensive Player of the Year two years back, if you ask me.”

“That’s nice of you to say,” Bowie says.

Dad winks at Becca, who’s holding my hand now and staring at my dad with curiosity. “Hello there, Miss Becca. I sure am glad you’re here. I heard you have a sweet little pup at home. Would you like to meet my dog in a little while?“

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