Page 137 of Wild Tangled Hearts

Reader’s Choice

What should Bella do next?

Give him an enthusiastic “YES!” and plan a wedding so epic it would make Cinderella jealous. Turn to this page.

Seal the deal by grabbing his hand and leading him to the bedroom. Who needs a big wedding when you can create magical little moments every day? Turn to this page.

PartTen

The Make-or-Break Moment

Trust is the bridge that spans the river of insecurities, and vulnerability is the foundation upon which it's built. In the landscape of love, these are the landmarks that guide us to the most profound connections.

Chapter64

Damien

MEET THE PARENTS

Ican't help but feel a flutter of nervous excitement as Damien and I approach my parents' cozy suburban home.

We climb the porch steps, and I take a deep breath before ringing the doorbell. A few moments later, the door swings open, and there my mom stands, her warm smile immediately putting me at ease.

"Bella, darling!" Mom exclaims, pulling me into a tight hug.

"Hi, Mom," I say, returning the embrace. Then, I step back and gesture towards Damien. "Damien, this is my mom."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Montgomory.”

Mom's eyes twinkle with their usual warmth. "Call me Jane.” As we enter the front foyer, she calls out, “Bill, they’re here.”

When my dad comes out of the living room to meet us, his expression is unreadable as he assesses Damien. “So, you're the young man who's been spending time with my daughter.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Montgomory.” Damien looks uneasy as he reaches to shake my dad’s hand.

“I suppose this is when I ask your intentions with my little girl.”

“Dad!” I give him a look of warning, not knowing what game he’s playing.

“Don’t worry about him,” my mom says to Damien, swatting my dad’s arm. “He’s completely harmless.”

“Not sure about harmless. Remember,” My dad’s attempt at being intimidating falters, and he grins, falling back into typical goofy nature, as he continues, “I’ve got a black belt in dad jokes, so if you ever break her heart, I'll have to unleash my ultimate power... the 'dadvice.’”

I groan and shake my head. “No dad jokes tonight, please.”

"You know, there was a time you thought I was the funniest guy in the world."

“There’s a difference between laughing at you and laughing because of you,” I tease.

“Ouch. Right to the ticker.” He grabs his chest, feigning heartbreak.

“Enough, you two,” my mom warns, then says to Damien, “They’re like little kids when they get going with the jokes and teasing.”

“Something smells delicious,” I say, redirecting the conversation. “Please tell me you made your homemade lasagna.”

“And garlic bread and cheese,” Mom says with a hint of pride, motioning us to follow her.

My dad places a hand on Damien’s shoulder as we walk to the kitchen and sit at the large oak table. "You know," he says, "they say the key to a happy life is laughter. Or was it ice cream? Either way, welcome, Damien, and we'll try to supply you with both!"

---