Page 68 of Fumbled Beginning

“Yes, I do,” he said into my ear. “Here comes my family.”

My eyes widened when I spotted his mother, brother, and sister-in-law walking toward us. Mike, who I’d met briefly before, greeted me first. “Rylee, it’s good to see you.”

“It’s good to see you as well.” I pinned a bright smile on my face, even though I was freaking out.

His mom rushed over and was clinging to him in seconds. I was surprised at how tall she was. “It’s good to see you, son.” She pulled back and clutched his cheeks. It was apparent that JP inherited her eyes, but the rest of his features were all his dad’s.

“How’s my favorite lady doing?” His smile was warm and affectionate. It was endearing watching the two of them together.

“Better, now that I have both of my boys in the same room.” She adjusted his tie and ran a hand down her purple gown.

He chucked softly and placed a hand on my back. “Mom, this is Rylee, my girlfriend.”

She stepped forward with open arms. “Hi, I’m Jennie, it’s so nice to finally meet you. I’ve heard so much about you. I can’t tell you how happy I am that you are here.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you.” Her grip on me was tight and warm; it was impossible not to like her.

“Has he been showing you around town?”

“He has. I absolutely love it here.”

Mike leaned in. “You might feel a differently if you stick around for a few more days. We are supposed to get two feet of snow toward the end of next week.”

I laughed. “I remember going to one of my brother’s playoff games in Buffalo. They had to pay the fans to shovel out the seats before they could start the game.”

“I remember that game well.” Mike smirked, taking a slow sip of his drink. “I bet Maverick is happy to be retired.”

“He is, although I feel bad for my sister-in-law, who has to deal with him all day long.”

“You two are so cute together.” Rachel, Mike’s wife, smiled. “Can I get a picture?”

JP pulled me to his side while Rachel handed her drink to Mike.

“I think this will be our first official photo as a couple,” I said, resting my hand on his chest.

JP looped his arm along my waist, practically branding me to his side. “Well, then, I guess it’s time the world knows I’m taken.”

I found myself faltering and unable to stop the grin from spreading across my face. When I glanced at his mom, she had tears welling in her eyes.

“Jennie, are you okay?” I asked her once Rachel was done taking our picture.

She waved me off. “I’m fine. I’m just so happy.”

JP pulled his mom into a hug and kissed the top of her head. She lightly pushed him away. “You’re going to make me cry harder if you go getting all mushy on me.”

“We can’t have that now.” He chuckled and reached for my hand. “I hope you guys don’t mind, but I promised this pretty lady a dance,” he said, handing my flute glass to the passing waiter. “And I’d like to take her for a spin on the dance floor before things get hectic.”

Mike patted his shoulder. “Go have some fun. We’ll save you both a seat at the table.”

He guided me through the crowd, trying to find a section that wasn’t occupied. A few people stopped to introduce themselves, but he kept his hand in mine the entire time.

“You’re an excellent dancer.” I smiled, happy to have him all to myself for a moment.

“You can thank the trainers, they are the ones who made us take the dance classes.” He spun me around before bringing me back to his chest.

“I think I remember my brother mentioning that.” I wrapped my hands around the back of his neck. “Did you enjoy the lessons?”

I allowed him to take the lead and fell into line with his steps. “They weren’t my favorite, but the dance instructors were cute, making the lessons more bearable.” I swatted his chest playfully. “What?” He laughed. “You asked, remember?”

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