“And by that, you mean the Prosper legacy?”
“Yeah, with the number of zeros you have attached to your name, it’s a surprise you haven’t been courted by royalty.”
“I have.”
“See? Now imagine being a nobody and having to contend with the ire of Hollywood and European nobility when they realize I’m having a Prosper heir.”
“Well, that’s going to happen, and I swear to protect you.”
“But it doesn’t have to happen. I could remain a nobody.”
“I’m not hiding you and my child from the world, Penny, and you’d better get that through your head right now.”
PENNY
He’ll never understand the impossible situation I’ve been put in. How much hatred and scorn I’ll receive once word gets out of my pregnancy.
It’s unfair of me to blame Greyson. I’m just as much at fault for the predicament as he is, but somehow, people will see him as the victim, saying I’m some type of gold digger who baby trapped him.
And maybe he is trapped. He doesn't act like he feels that way, but he never would.
As we step into Prosper Manor, I feel like there’s a spotlight on me. All five of his brothers and his father are already there, along with a few staff they treat like family.
His brothers look surprised to see us together. All except Duke, who’d walked in on us all those months ago.
Papa Prosper comes over, his cane thumping with every labored step.
“And what do we have here?” he asks in an amused tone.
Greyson winks at his father, who chuckles in response.
It’s been long expected that Greyson would be the first to take a wife, being the eldest brother. Clint, the next oldest, lacks the drive of a second son, so Duke fills that role even though he was born fourth. Wade came third, Ryder, fifth, and, finally, Axel, the baby, who only just turned twenty-two.
Six eligible bachelors that women fall head over heels for, and I managed to get knocked up by the most desirable of them all, albeit unwittingly.
Papa Prosper has had to wait a long time for grandkids, so it’s safe to say he doesn’t care who Greyson knocked up, and he makes no attempt to hide his enthusiastic grin.
The food is set up buffet style, and without addressing the elephant in the room, Greyson loads up a plate with appetizers and hands it to me.
The heat of everyone’s gaze makes me feel small as Greyson guides me to the table. Papa Prosper sits at the head with Greyson to his right. Typically, Clint would sit on the other side of Grey, but he insists I claim that seat, which will not go ignored.
Greyson’s brothers whisper to each other under their breath, smirking. All except Axel, who looks sullen.
He’s always had a soft spot for me, his gaze lingering a little longer than it should. Not that he ever acted on it.
After the appetizers have been devoured, Javier, the chef, brings out the prime rib roasts along with sides.
Greyson grabs me a portion so big my mouth falls open. I want to hand it back, but I know it will only make him fuss, drawing more attention.
Once we’ve all been served, Papa Prosper stands and clinks his glass with his fork.
“If I could have everyone’s attention for just a moment, I’d like to give thanks to the good lord and all the people who helped make this meal possible.”
Everyone murmurs in agreement as he goes down the list of workers, clients, and kin before finally directing his gaze to me and Greyson.
“Is there anything anyone would like to add?” he asks. “Perhaps the person who arranged this feast?”
Greyson clears his throat and rises to a stand.
