Page 20 of Their Perfect Daddy

“Yes, ma’am. I promise to be there on time with the wine. I’ve already got a case of your favorite.”

Mom hums. “That’s good, son. I’m glad you’re prepared. Tyreek says he’s going to try grilling this year too in case someone wants something other than a traditional meal.”

I wince thinking about the last time this man tried to use the grill he was gifted for Father’s Day by my sisters. Why they thought a man who has always had a private chef would do something like this is beyond me. I’ve long given up trying to understand all the women in my life.

“While I love talking with you, I’m going to have to let you go. I just pulled up to the party.”

“Oh, goodness. I’m sorry I kept you so long. It’s always so easy to talk to you, son. Love you. See you soon.”

“Love you too, Mom. Behave yourself.”

She giggles at my teasing words before ending the call. It works out perfectly with my arrival. The valet opens my door, then steps to the side to let me out.

I straighten my suit jacket as I slip him a bill for his efforts. The Bellports are sure to pay their people well. It’s more a habit than anything to take care of those around me.

At the door, I’m greeted by Royce Bellport. We’ve met a few times due to their work. It’s always interesting running into them since they prefer to be so private. I might be one of the few people that knows exactly what they do.

“Royce,” I greet with a smile.

“Skye,” they reply. “Fancy seeing you here.”

I chuckle. “Yeah, considering you extended the invite, must be hilarious.”

They pull me into a hug. I give them a clap on the back, then step away.

“Going to be packed tonight?”

“Knowing our mother, probably. I can’t say for sure. You were my only invite. I figured I could hold a conversation or two with you if I needed a minute away from the clingy people.”

“That makes sense. I appreciate the excuse to skip out on a night of my mother talking my ear off about holiday plans. My stepfather, Tyreek, always falls asleep when she starts on him, so I’m the alternate.”

Royce nods and ushers me inside. “I’m on hosting duties, which means I can’t mingle just yet. Follow the hall to the party room. You’ll hear them before you see them.”

“Thanks,” I tell them as I take off in the direction they point.

Sure enough, I pick up the sounds of the party before spotting anyone. The second I make it to the space whereeveryone is, my jaw drops. I’m used to opulence because of the hospital board wanting to impress the top employees. Our banquets and fundraisers are usually extravagant. This is even bigger than that.

The last time I was in this room, the space was muted with comfy furniture and familiar faces. Now, it’s the complete opposite.

“Welcome!” a friendly voice calls out.

I turn to see Mrs. Bellport standing there in a floor-length gown and a welcoming smile.

“Mrs. Bellport. It’s a pleasure to see you again.”

Her smile turns friendlier than before. “Skye? Oh, gosh. I barely recognized you outside of scrubs.”

“That’s my curse,” I admit. “Most people who know me from Bellport General would agree that this isn’t my usual wear.”

As I motion to my suit, she looks me over. For as beautiful as she is, the appraisal does nothing for me. While I consider Mr. Bellport a lucky man, she’s not my type.

“I didn’t know you were coming. Which one of my lovely children invited you? Or was it my husband? He’s known to surprise me sometimes with my favorite people.”

Chuckling at her words, I shake my head. “Not your husband. Royce ran into me last week and asked. They were clear they needed a friend to hang out with tonight. Plus, you’re known for delivering a delicious meal.”

“That is high praise. I’m happy to be known for such.” She pats my arm. “I’m glad you came. Feel free to roam around and visit. I’ll take over for Royce in a bit so you two can chat.”

There’s a gleam in her eye I recognize. It’s a mother who thinks there may be more to a friendship than the reality of it.

---