Page 47 of Stolen Moments with a Bad Boy

“Sweet Pea, your mother was a beautiful woman. Some kind of a way it’s like she knew she was going to pass away ahead of time. In her will, there were specific instructions. The day her only daughter was about to give birth, she wanted a picture framed high on the wall—one of her and you and one of your Gigi and you.”

My tears continued to pour as I gazed at the big photo frame that adorned the wall. It was a two-picture collage. One side was my mom and I having our first skin-to-skin contact. On the other side was me at age eight, cheesing really hard as I sat at Gigi’s table while we peeled potatoes together. Under the picture frame was my Gigi’s favorite wood rocking chair that was reupholstered with a comfortable looking seat cushion.

There were three different wood cribs in the room. Each crib was pushed against a different colored wall. The nursery was decorated in neutral shades because we decided not to know the gender of our babies until birth. I cleared my throat before I spoke.

In a trembling voice, I spoke to all of them. “There are no words to express how truly grateful and appreciative I am for all three of you. Today, you guys have unlocked emotions and sorrows in me that I didn’t know I still carried. That beautiful picture on the wall has officially closed the last hole that was in my heart.

“Daddy, I understand now. The feels and kicks of these little ones fuel me with a passion and love I had no knowledge that existed. Next to you, Gigi worked hard to give me the motherly love other kids experienced.

“You all have showed up for me in the most loving and healthiest ways possible. I can’t stress enough how much I love you all. Our family has changed in different ways because God had other plans. Thank you for being the best father a little girl could dream about.”

“Thank you, pumpkin head. It’s not easy being a parent, but you made it worth the journey.”

I blew him a kiss and focused on my girl.

“Londen, you are one of my favorite treasures. When we started working together three years ago, I had no idea our bond would grow to be so strong. The time, effort, and love you’ve shown me can’t be faked or imitated. When my Gigi passed, I thought I would never form a bond with another woman until we met. Thank you so much for your undying support and loyalty, honey.” I wobbled over and hugged her and my dad tightly.

“We have a bit of news too,” Londen mumbled. “Troy Sr. and I are expecting. We found out last month. We didn’t want to intrude on you guys’ happiness, but we’re two months pregnant,” she revealed happily.

My dad looked at Londen adoringly. I imagined that was the same look he used to give my mother. I hugged both of them tightly again.

“I’m so, so happy for you two and the new addition. I’ll be a great big sister.”

“We know,” they announced in unison.

I released them, and Ro walked up and shook hands with my dad.

“Congratulations to you both,” he happily stated. He turned and hugged Londen tightly then released her.

She turned to me. “Now, our babies will grow up and be close just like us!” Londen affirmed happily.

The joy my heart felt at the moment just couldn’t be fathomed. Londen and I squealed like schoolgirls.

Ro cleared his throat. “You guys mind if I have a talk with my love just for a minute? We’ll be right down.”

“Sure. Come on, baby,” Londen replied. They left the room.

“Janeiro, this surprise was the best gift I’ve ever received, next to our children, of course. Thank you, baby. Truly, I thank you for absolutely everything.”

Janeiro wrapped me in his arms as we swayed in silence.

“Bella, if you don’t know by now, I’ll do anything for you. I hope this surprise has proven that to you.”

I stared into his endless blue eyes until I’d gotten my fill of them. He was all the man and the only man I would ever want and need.

“I know but quick question. The ‘for sale’ sign in the yard was just a hoax?”

He nodded. “Yes, baby. I had to throw you off a bit.”

I pulled him down to me and slipped my tongue into his fruity tasting mouth.

“Bella, I have one more surprise for you, then I’m done.”

I shook my head. “No more surprises, love. You’ve done more than enough.”

“No, I haven’t. I spent a long time alone and running away from my demons.” He pulled on my curly bang. “Now that I have our legacies, I’m going to spend the rest of my life thanking you.”

“Aww, you’re such a softy. I’m kidding. My life was completed when you made your appearance. For the rest of my life, I want to spend every waking moment with you.”

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