Page 126 of Their Perfect Daddy

All in all, it’s been a brilliant plan. The only odd part is the theme. For myself there are llama decorations all around. From balloons to posters, the adorable creature is everywhere. To cover Monty’s interests, Daddy chose to feature retro video games. For every llama there is, another piece has a game console or video game image on it.

It’s an eclectic collection of things, a perfect parallel to mimic our little family’s dynamic.

“No need to get worked up,” Skye tells Monty.

“I’m not worked up.”

Everyone around us scoffs at the lie. They don’t have to be in the conversation to know the whole truth of the matter.

“If you keep being a brat, then you’re going to miss out on part of your surprise.” Princess Aster points out something I hadn’t given much thought to. Then again, most of this party was a surprise to us. I wonder what else is in store.

Skye nods as he tugs Monty to his chest. Just seeing the way his hands grip our partner has my body lighting up. I should not get aroused at my own birthday party, yet that’s exactly what begins to happen.

Dangit.

“I want my surprise, Daddy. It’s my birthday. You can’t keep secrets!” Monty grins. He believes he’s won the argument.

Skye smiles at him, then kisses the tip of his nose. “I’m only conceding because it is your birthday celebration. Next time, you’re getting punished no matter what.”

Monty shivers at the promise behind those words. I grin knowing I’ll get a show no matter what. I love seeing the two of them butt heads.

Princess Aster fans his face as he pants. “This is too much. We’re all going to need cold showers after this.”

“Behave,” Charlie mutters.

“Yes, Daddy.”

There is no stopping my wide smile or my excitement. I don’t know what Daddy has planned. I only know it’s going to be good.

Sure enough, when the crowd parts and another couple walks into the room, I realize I underestimated this day. If Princess Aster was a fun surprise for me, then this one is level ten super surprise for Monty.

“That’s… It’s….”

“Ean Garner,” Princess Aster says with confidence. “One of my besties. Oh, and his Daddy Rhett. He’s an amazing tattoo artist. They own a ranch we sometimes visit when I need to escape the city.”

We’re all so tuned in to what Princess Aster is saying we don’t realize Monty’s frozen. At least we don’t until Ean is right in front of him and reaching out to shake his hand.

In a split second, Monty goes from standing to tumbling to the side. Daddy and Charlie manage to catch him as Princess Aster and I step to the side. We both gasp at the display, shocked at the turn of events.

“Is he ok?” I ask once Daddy has him laid out on the floor.

Skye nods, a small grin on his face. “He fainted. It’s nothing more. I knew he’d be nervous, but I never expected this.”

Ean drops down beside them, his eyes wide. “I’ve had this happen before, though never with someone else famous. Since I stopped acting full time, it’s been a lesser occurrence. I’m a bit in awe right now, to be honest.”

“As you should be,” I blurt out.

All eyes turn to me. I push down my nerves at the attention as I continue on.

“Monty is a really big deal. He’s talented and kind. People love him. And you’re like… his hero or something. He’d never be interested romantically, but I think the way you came out to everyone really inspired him.”

Ean’s hands move to cover his chest. “How sweet. I’m honored he was touched by my choices. While I’m not a sports fan, that guy over there knows enough to keep me up to date. We’ve been following Monty sincethe game. His comeback has been phenomenal. When Jett told Princess Aster about this party and suggested I come since Monty is a fan, I couldn’t resist.”

“Please don’t wake me up. I must be dreaming,” the man we’re discussing mumbles. His eyes are still closed, though the smile he wears tells me he’s been listening for longer than we’ve all noticed.

A giggle pops out of Ean. “Not dreaming, Monty. I’m very much here, and I’m a pretty big fan of yours.”

That has my boyfriend’s eyes popping open as he quickly sits up. “No way! You can’t be. You’re, well, you’re you. And I’m me.”

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