“Because I wanted to make you feel safe enough to tell me what’s so scary about the idea of Loren getting married, but I think I made you feel worse instead.” I wait a second before adding, “What are you worried might happen?”
He shrugs. “I guess … I’m afraid they’re only getting married because of the babies. I worry one or both of them will regret their decision later, that they’ll grow resentful of one another and allow it to destroy their family.”
“Like your parents?”
“Yeah,” he says, crossing his arms over his chest.
“I suppose it’s possible the same thing could happen with Blake and Loren. But I honestly don’t think it will,” I offer.
“Because you only look at the bright side,” he says dryly.
“I’m not saying that to be optimistic,” I correct him. “I’m saying it because they remind me ofmyparents, and because they’re obviously meant to be together. I also think you have it backward. Blake didn’t propose because of the twins; the twins only exist because Blake and Loren can’t help how much they love one another. And even if I’m wrong, they still deserve the chance to make it work and figure it out on their own.”
I pause and close in the space between us as I reach out and tug his arm. “You supported me when my family couldn’t, and it’s made all the difference. Just think what your love and encouragement can do for Lo.”
He licks his lips and stares down at me before finally letting his arms fall to his sides, and I wrap him up in a hug. I hear his shaky exhale as he reluctantly embraces me, eventually resting his chin over my head. We stand there for a full minute before he pulls away.
“Thank you, Daisy,” he rasps.
I lift one shoulder. “Anytime.”
“You, uh …” He clears his throat before continuing. “Do you still want to grab dinner and take a crack at that study guide?”
“Of course, if you’re feeling up to it,” I reply, smiling hopefully.
His expression relaxes, though he doesn’t return the smile. “Only if you’re buying.”
I snort out a laugh and shove him playfully. “Fine. But I’m thinking something more along the lines of corndogs instead of surf and turf.”
“Well, we can’t exactly go out for steak and lobster with you dressed like that, can we?”
This time he shoots me a genuine smile before he inclines his head toward the door, making me sigh inwardly. Living with a man like Landry could be dangerous indeed.
CHAPTER 15
daisy
“What in the …”
Loren blinks and turns her head to the side in confusion as she holds up another lacy, little number for our appraisal. She gasps when she realizes there’s an opening where most undergarments make it a point to hold it together, then she stuffs it back into a gift bag.
“Tenley Jean! I can’t believe you made me open this in front of our mamas and everything,” Loren scolds her, making the others laugh.
I’d be lying if I said my own cheeks didn’t feel warm after that one. This evening is proving to be quite educational for me.
Loren and Landry’s older sister Lilley had put together a quirkyPride and Prejudicethemed bridal shower earlier today, complete with tea, sandwiches, and scones. But now that the more distinguished guests had come and gone, including such acquaintances as the assistant district attorney’s wife, the party has morphed into a less formalBridgertonbachelorette soiree. The guys had all gone on some sporty excursion to celebrate Blake’s last weekend as a free man, but the ladies were more comfortable hanging out at home, especially since the twins had only recently graduated from the NICU and Tenley was fresh out of the maternity ward with her brand-new baby boy.
And I’ve been enjoying every second of it. I guess I hadn’t realized how much I’ve been missing my mom and sisters and the busyness of a full house.
Tenley smirks at Loren. “I told you I’d get you back for teasing me about my wedding dress.”
“Yeah, well, joke’s on you because I’ll probably text you all the details after I wear it,” Loren says, sticking her tongue out.
“Eh, it’s good for business,” Tenley replies smoothly, and Loren moves to toss a throw pillow her way before stopping abruptly.
“No fair, you’ve got a baby in your lap.”
Tenley grins. “That’s also my new excuse for lying around and letting JD handle everything.”
