Page 77 of Pastel Kisses

“Exactly,” Kam adds. “We wanted to take care of it. Of you.”

I shake my head in disbelief, the love in my chest swelling like a balloon. “Now we’ll just have to update everything again soon... you know, baby-proof it. Soft edges, no sharp corners, secure fencing. Toddler-safe, not just pretty.”

“Oh, we’ve already got ideas,” Liam says, that mischievous glint in his eye making my lips curve.

“Don’t worry,” Jaxton smirks. “We’ll build the best damn toddler-safe oasis you’ve ever seen.”

I laugh, the sound bubbling up before I can stop it. “You guys are seriously nesting more than I am.”

Kam grins. “We’re just excited to be a family. Tohavea family.”

Lennox leans in, voice softer now. “I can’t wait to meet them. To see our baby for the first time.”

My chest tightens at the raw sincerity in his words. I look around at all of them—myguys,myhome,ourfuture—and smile.

“Neither can I.”

~~~~~

The next day, the nerves hit me the moment I roll out of bed. My anxiety is practically buzzing beneath my skin as we prepare to leave the hotel for the barbecue. Just the thought of being out in the open makes me uneasy—too many people, too many what-ifs, and Sarah still out there. But I also crave a taste of normalcy. And I need to see Roman. Honestly, I’m shocked he hasn’t already broken down the metaphorical gates to get to me.

The guys explained he’s been holding back out of respect—giving me time and space before unleashing his signature dramatic entrance. I’m not sure whether to be grateful or terrified.

Before I can spiral too far, Jaxton shows up with what could only be described as apregnancy feast. He sets a massive tray across my lap like I’m some kind of royal. Eggs, toast, fruit, protein bars, even mini muffins—all arranged like it’s brunch at a five-star resort.

“You need to eat enough to get through the drive and make it to lunch,” he says, leaning down to kiss my forehead. “And just in case, I packed you a snack bag for the car.”

I grin up at him. “I love you.”

“I know,” he smirks, and then walks off like the cocky bastard he is.

Kam leans around the corner from the hallway, a box of supplies balanced effortlessly in his arms. “Don’t worry, Sunshine,” he calls out with a grin. “Your dad’s been up since the crack of dawn smoking the meat, and I knocked out most of the sides last night. We’re talking loaded potato salad, pasta salad, slaw—you name it. It’s gonna begood.”

Spoiler alert:He wasn’t lying.

The moment we arrive and I step out of the car, the rich, mouthwatering scent of smoked meat and spices hits me like a freight train. I practically float toward the patio table like a cartoon character following an invisible scent trail, my body moving of its own accord. If there were a visible smoke finger curling in the air like in those old cartoons, I’d be chasing it.

By the time I make it to the table, my mouth is practically watering, and my eyes go wide with pure, unfiltered delight. Kam and Dad have seriously outdone themselves. There’s an appetizing lineup of juicy burgers, sticky ribs, charred veggies, creamy homemade mac and cheese, and perfectly roasted corn on the cob. It’s not just a meal—it’s a full-on feast.

The guys burst out laughing at my awestruck expression.

“You’d thinkwedidn’t feed her like a queen all morning,” Lennox nudges me gently as he hands me a plate.

“What can I say?” I grin as I pile food on with zero shame. “Pregnancy hunger hits different. And this—” I point at the table like I’m worshiping it, “—this is holy.”

Kam bows dramatically. “Only the best for our girl.”

The distant sound of car doors shutting and footsteps crunching across the gravel instantly snags my attention, sending a ripple of tension down my spine. My instincts flare—just for a moment—until I hear a very familiar screech pierce the air.

“Giiiirl! It’s like trying to strike a deal with the devil to get in to see you! I barely clawed my way into this invite!” Roman’s dramatic voice cuts through the breeze, and I barely have time to brace myself before he barrels into me, wrapping me in the fiercest hug imaginable.

Several of my guys immediately grunt their displeasure—quiet but unmistakable warnings. I feel them shift behind me, ready to pry him off if necessary. Which is honestly hilarious, considering they’re a lot rougher with me in other, far less clothed scenarios.

I shoot Kam a sly smile over Roman’s shoulder. His eyes catch mine, his mouth curving into that familiar smirk that shuts down the tension instantly. He gets it. They all do. I’m not made of glass. But after everything that happened, it’s like their alpha instincts have been dialed to max volume. I don’t mind it, though—not even a little. If anything, it’s comforting. I’ve spent too long fighting on my own. Now, it feels good to be protected. To be theirs.

“I’m sorry I didn’t reach out sooner,” I murmur once Roman lets me go, guilt pressing against my ribs.

Roman and Marco both wave off my apology like it’s ridiculous. “Please,” Roman says, clutching his chest. “After everything? We’re just happy to see you breathing and vertical. Honestly, I didn’t expect you to be out in the open so soon. You’re braver than I am.”

---