Page 20 of Make Me Fool You

Monica turns away but then turns back, drawing in a deep breath. “I’m sorry that I said what I said about James. He seems like a good man and it’s obvious that he’s very in love with you. I’m so glad that you found what we all look for. Love.”

Tears gleam among the whiskey glow in Bri’s eyes. “Thank you,” she breathes. “I am happy. James is the best man I’ve ever met.”

Monica nods and then smiles at Trinity when she gingerly slips up to our little group.

“And I’m very sorry that I pushed you, Trinity. I know that you might not have been hurt by Cameron if you weren’t trying to model your life after my decisions.”

Her sister smiles. “It’s alright, Mother. I’ll survive.”

Monica grins. “I’m sure you will. Both of you have considerably more common sense than your mother.”

“Not true. But thank you for saying so.”

I reach out a hand to shake Monica’s hand. “Thank you for coming. Don’t forget to get a drink and something to eat. We’ve got a ton of little appetizers. Everyone’s welcome.”

Guilt flashes on her face but then she pulls her shoulders back. “Thank you.”

I watch her walk away and then turn to Trinity and Bri. “I can’t believe she showed up,” the younger woman whispers.

“I can.” I kiss my wife on the cheek. “There’s nothing that love can’t fix. And I’m sure she loves you girls.”

“I’ll take your word for it.”

Trinity walks away and I see her mingling and chatting with our guests.

Bri sighs and puts her head on my chest. “I love you so much, James. This is the sweetest, most sensitive and loving thing anyone has done for me. I can’t wait to be your bride.”

“I can’t wait to marry you either. I can’t wait to spend my life with you and whatever family we’re lucky enough to have.”

Bending down, I let my lips slant along hers, hard and demanding, until she’s breathlessly panting, leaning into me. Her hands tangle in the collar of my jacket and she has a death grip on it.

“Now. Let’s go mingle and show these people what love really looks like.”

“Yes, let’s.” I tug her behind me and she throws her head back, laughing joyfully. This is the woman for me. My past, my present and my future all rolled up into one smart, snarky and beautiful package.

Watching her charm and chat with our friends, I let my thoughts turn to what our future holds.

And I know, it’s nothing but good. Because I’m marrying an angel and angels only bring good.

Epilogue Two: Brianna

Ifeel tears well in my eyes. That damn stick! Negative.

Throwing away the test, I wash my hands and open the door only to find James waiting outside the door.

I shake my head and he pulls me into his comforting arms. “Baby, even if we never have a child, we have so much that I can’t begrudge our life. We both have so much love to give, we’ll figure something out. So many kids need parents. We can adopt.”

Sniffling, I raise my eyes to his. He winces and groans. “Baby, don’t look at me like that. You know I can’t handle it when you look so sad. I swear to god, it breaks me.”

I nod my head but it feels like my heart is being ripped out of my chest every time that damn stick says no.

I lean into his chest and let the scent of him surround me, calm me. Then I pull back and straighten my spine. “I’ve got to get ready for work. I’m going to be late.”

He grins that wicked smile of his that makes my wanton pussy thump.

“Stop that!” I swat him. “You need to go too. You’re going to be late as well.”

“Right.” He glances at his watch and his firm lips twist. “Ugh. The captain’s gonna kill me.”

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