Page 41 of Harmonizing Hearts

SMD isa family and I love being part of it and that’s why I chose to dial Luke, another member of our security team. He answers after a couple of rings. “Hey, Jax. What can I do for you?”

“Are you up for a barbecue at our place this Saturday?” I cross my fingers, hoping he’ll be able to make it. I know it’s his day off but still the day wouldn’t be the same without him.

Luke chuckles, his voice warm. “Count me in, Jax, I can’t miss your barbecue.”

Happiness fills my heart as I thank him.

I pause in front of Angel’s office and take a deep breath. I knock lightly on the door and step inside, finding her engrossed in some paperwork. I hold up the contract and a wide smile light up her face.

“Is that what I think it is?” she exclaims, curiosity dancing in her eyes.

I walk closer to her, excitement bubbling within me. “Yup, this is yours.” I hold up a finger, my voice filled with urgency. “Angel, if you promise me you won’t spill the news just yet, I may have another thing to share today. Emma and I want to keep it under wraps for now, but we’ll announce soon.” I pause while seeing her curiosity getting bigger. Angel nods, understanding the importance of secrecy. “Em is pregnant.”

“Oh, my goodness.” Angel jumps up off the chair and comes to hug me. “I promise I’ll keep it secret.” She moves back, “Em’s such a bitch though, she said nothing to me.” She sinks in the armchair next to me.

“I was wondering if I could take the next weekend off.” I rub my neck, while making puppy eyes to her.

She reaches the laptop and opens my agenda, “Is there a reason?”

“I need a break and she does too after all the mess with her parents’ story. I know from next month it’ll be packed since the upcoming concert, and…I want to propose.”

Her head snaps to me, a big smile over her face, “Granted only if I can organize the wedding.”

“Would you?”

“Of course! Exclusive and dreamy.” She goes near a shelf and takes a few huge folders off. “I got your back.”

“What if I want to marry her before the babies are born.” I push my luck knowing what I’m asking is madness.

“When is the due…” She pauses and peers at me, “Babies?”

Fuck! I wanna slap myself. “Em will kill me.”

“Ahhh,” she squeaks, “I’m so thrilled! Congratulations!” she giggles, focusing back on our conversation, “I’ll work along with wedding planners and there’s nothing we can’t do.” She winks at me, “for William and Brooke’s wedding took us three months but they helped us.” She flicks the pen pad back and forth, “you need to ask Em first. Being you a public figure they expect you to show over bits of the wedding and have exclusive media too.”

I smile, grateful for her support. “Will do, Angel, for me the sooner the better. Also, I wanted to invite you, Matthew, and the babies to the barbecue on Saturday. It wouldn’t be the same without you, plus we wanna drop the bomb.”

Her face lights up with delight. “We’d love to come, Jax! It’ll be a great chance for everyone to celebrate your big news.”

“Thank you.”

“There’s nothing to thank me for. We’re family, Jax. And I mean it, we cheer each other on and try our best to be there for everyone.”

And she really does. For each one of the members of SMD, being part of staff or singers. I think that’s one thing that I’m so grateful for. I hug her. “It has always been me and Mac until I met the guys. And now I have a pretty big one.”

“And you’ll be a dad too. “

“The best thing in my life.” And I will do everything for my family.

Iwatch from the porch as Mac, Jax’s father, pulls into our driveway. Excitement bubbles within me knowing that the barbecue is about to begin. As Mac steps out of his car, I rush over to greet him, “Hey, Pop! It’s so great to see you.” I wrap him a tight hug.

He returns the embrace with a gentle squeeze, his eyes filled with warmth. “Emma, it’s always a pleasure to be here. I brought my famous ribs,” and thank God he did. I was craving them and Jax promised he’d ask him to teach his secret recipe. I couldn’t forget their amazing flavor and cravings are a pain lately. Jax is a sweetheart and spoils me every time. “And I couldn’t forget the beautiful lady of the house.” He presents me with a bouquet of vibrant sunflowers.

I take them in my hands, inhaling their sweet fragrance. “Oh, Pop, thank you! These are absolutely gorgeous.”

Mac grins, his eyes crinkling with affection. “You deserve nothing less, my dear. Now, where’s that son of mine? I’m ready to lend a hand with the preparations.”

I guide Mac toward Jax, who is setting up the table and placing torches along the beach. He wanted them since said it gives that cozy atmosphere. Honestly the tiny white lights upon the porch and the strings up to the beach for me are more than enough but I guess he’s getting nervous. Jax looks up, his face lighting up with joy at the sight of his father. They share a heartfelt embrace, and I can’t help but feel a surge of warmth at the bond they share.

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