Page 58 of Don't Fall For Your Grumpy Neighbor

I’m honestly not even a hundred percent sure at this point. Does she love me?

Is it crazy that I’m too afraid to ask her because I think she’d feel the same way I do. Like maybe things are moving a bit too quickly and we’re rushing things.

But I know I don’t want anyone else. I know I want her.

It’s hard to go from a one-night stand to married in the course of days. I feel like that’s what we’ve done. We’re moving quickly, and even though the past months we’ve grown to know each other better, I still feel like there’s something we’re missing.

I gaze at Felicity from across the restaurant and she smiles at me, and her whole beautiful face lights up, and the way the sun pours in through the windows, making her brown eyes shine bright has me nearly out of breath. Like I just ran a mile.

My heart squeezes in my chest.

Fuck. How did I get so lucky?

I love her.

There’s no questioning it now. I love this woman, and I’d do anything for her.

I think briefly what it would be like to not have Felicity with me every day, and I can’t bear the thought of it.

That’s how I know.

I’m in love.

I head into the back room, ready to play silly baby games, and watch Felicity smile with her friends as they get ready to welcome my new son into the world.

Damn. I’m going to have a son.

My heart beats a bit faster in my chest, and I smile. I’m going to be the best father I can be.

And the best husband.

Because I’m going to ask her to marry me.

Chapter 27

Felicity

This baby shower has been more than I ever imagined. Anya, Hartford, and Emmie really came together and made it magical. The baby blue decorations draped throughout the room, with pops of white from daisies on the tables to napkins, created a serene yet festive atmosphere. Elegant blue and white balloons float around, and the centerpiece is a stunning diaper cake with tiny baby shoes and ribbons. Soft fairy lights twinkle around the room, adding a warm and enchanting glow.

The games they planned had everyone laughing and competing with enthusiasm. From the hilarious baby bottle chugging contest to the creative onesie decorating station, there was never a dull moment. The food, oh the food, was off the charts delicious. Anya is lucky to have Griffin at home to prepare such amazing dishes. The spread included gourmet finger sandwiches, savory quiches, and a decadent dessert table featuring cupcakes, macarons, and a show-stopping cake with intricate baby-themed decorations.

Everyone has been having so much fun, which is rare at any type of shower. It’s usually boring except for the person that it’s for, but that’s not the case here. Anya has made sure that it’s full of life and laughter. It’s no wonder she’s so successful with the parties she hosts here. The attention to detail, from personalized party favors to the perfectly curated playlist of upbeat and soothing tunes, ensures that every guest feels special and engaged.

When guests started arriving I was overwhelmed with the amount of gifts they brought. It seemed like an endless amount of beautifully wrapped boxes and bags. I was a bit nervous, if I'm honest, to sit in front of such a large crowd and open everything. Yet, here I am about to open the last gift and I was nervous for no reason. It’s been so exciting seeing what everyone has bought for our little boy. I didn’t think we’d receive so much, but I feel like we are well prepared, at least for the very beginning.

My mom and Carol, Shepherd’s mom, surprised us with a crib and the promise of helping me get the nursery ready. Anya and Hartford have purchased more baby clothes than I think will be possible for him to ever wear, plus bottles, burp clothes, bibs, a bassinet, a swing, and a high chair. Emmie kept it simple with adorable blue overalls and a gift card so I could buy things I needed but didn’t receive. Although, I’m not sure that will be necessary. I can’t think of one thing I’ll need that wasn’t gifted to me.

I guess I can always use the card for more diapers.

“That gift is from me and Carol,” my mom says, breaking my thoughts.

I smile as I rip off the paper and Hartford quickly cleans it up, while Emmie takes the bow to add to the hat that I’m apparently supposed to wear after this, and Anya waits with her pen and pad to write down what I received, so I can send thank you cards.

The white box is large and I pull the top off, exposing tissue paper. I pull the tissue paper off and a beautiful quilt sits in the box. I slowly pull it out and everyone oohs and aahs.

“Your mom and I got together and made this. Each piece of the quilt is made up of yours and Shepherd’s baby clothes,” Carol says.

I inspect the quilt as tears shine in my eyes. “This is the most thoughtful, precious gift. Thank you,” I whisper around the lump in my throat.

---