Page 142 of Wicked Praise

He had surprised her with how traditional he was during their wedding.

He’d wanted all the things.

“I’m not tempting fate,” Blake said. “I want the cake, the vows, the rings, the white damn doves if that’s what it will take.”

She’d thought he was joking, but fifty white doves were released as they were announced Mr. and Mrs. Dufort.

Bella had gasped as he’d kissed her again.

“Anything for you, my love,” Blake declared.

“About that,”

“Except a kitten.”

“How about a baby?” she said, smiling as his mouth parted.

“What?” he asked, staring at her while the crowd clapped and the doves flapped above them.

Bella nodded.

“What?” he repeated.

“We’re having a baby, Blake,” she said quietly, placing a hand on his face.

“Holy shit.” Blake tugged her to his side and faced their friends and family while she grinned. “I’m going to be a father!”

The entire party erupted about them.

Bella had known only for a few days, but she figured she might surprise her new husband. He loved doing that to her, but this time it was her turn.

Rhonda threw her arms around her.

Even Blake’s mom, who had been much friendlier in recent weeks, came up and hugged her, a small tear in her eye.

“Welcome to the family, Bella. I can’t believe you are going to make me a grandma,” Samantha gushed.

“It’s scary and exciting,” Bella said.

“I know you don’t have a mom, and no one can replace her, but I want you to know you can call me anytime,” Samantha offered.

“Thank you.” Bella hugged her mother-in-law again.

“You’re a Dufort now. I’m sorry I wasn’t very kind when we first met. I promise I will explain soon.”

With everything going on around her, Bella hadn’t had time to reflect on that. But it sounds like they would get some answers about how their parents knew each other.

Blake laid her on the bed and kissed her gently on the mouth. “Tired?”

“Yes, but notthattired.”

“I’m not fucking you like I have been. I might jackhammer the baby.” He cringed, standing, laying his hands on his hips.

She giggled. “I’ll get you some books.”

“Sit up,” he ordered and began to undo her dress. Slowly he peeled each pearl button out of the silk hoop. Then he pulled her around. “Is this a test for new husbands because, baby, I am not that patient.”

“No.” She laughed. “It was expensive. Be careful with them.”

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