“Fuck’s sake, you guys love the sound of your own voices, don’t you,” Theo mutters, and Nora narrows her eyes at him.
He doesn’t want to go head-to-head with her, no matter his size. He’ll lose every time.
Declan palms the back of Nora’s neck and pulls her close to him, her eyes watering, which is rare. She’s not a crier like Sadie and me.
“This morning, Declan and I received some of the best news of our life.” Her eyes search the crowd. “Archie is officially our son. He’s officially a Buckley.”
Roars of happiness boom through the room as we surround our friends with hugs and kisses, sharing tears of joy.
I knew today would turn out perfectly.
While everyone’s still occupied, I grab Jack’s hand and pull him toward the basement, wanting to show him my surprise.
“If you wanted a little action, we could have just gone to one of the six bedrooms we have upstairs.”
Ignoring him, I keep walking through to where I’d told him I was designing my office. He knew I didn’t want him to see it until I was done, but I’ve had something else up my sleeve all along.
Pushing open the doors, I yell, “Surprise.”
Jackson
What?
My head is on a swivel, taking in the room. When did she do this?
“Annabelle,” I whisper, trying not to let my emotions get the best of me.
I take her in my arms and kiss her all over. “I love it, B. This is beyond incredible. God, Belle, I don’t even know what to say.” I look around the room, the one she designed for me.
A “man cave” filled with an abundance of Queen memorabilia, records framed on the wall, some even signed, and holy shit—
“Is that…”
“Freddie Mercury’s signed manuscript of ‘We Are The Champions.’ I thought it was only fitting.” She raises a brow playfully.
I’m at a loss for words. Every square inch is filled, including a vintage record player.
This must have taken so much planning and cost her a fortune.
“How did you get it all?
She chuckles. “I was flipping through a magazine for a client and saw that an auction was happening for Queen. What are the odds? I dragged Lola to Sotheby’s auction house with me, but you’ll have to ask Lo about the rest. She said I was mad trying to bid for everything.”
I laugh at the thought. I can imagine my girl taking charge there.
“It’s incredible and so thoughtful. Thank you, sweetheart.” I take her in my arms and sweep my lips against hers. “I think I’m in shock,” I mumble.
She pulls back and cups my cheek. “You do so much for everyone else. It’s time someone spoils you. So, thankyoufor always caring for me, your sister, your nieces, and all our friends. You’re the one everyone turns to, and I want you to remember I’ll always be the oneyoucan turn to.”
I drop my head to her shoulder and take a shaky breath. “You can’t make me cry. Bucks will never let me live it down.” I laugh.
“Come on, let’s get back upstairs. We can come back later and you can fuck me while looking out at all the weird shit you love.” She grins and pulls me upstairs.
* * *
It’s the middle of the night and we’re partying like we’re young with no responsibilities or care in the world. The music is blasting, and Belle’s on the couch dancing with Lola.
Sadie and Wills’s nanny took all the kids across the street, though Sades probably should have joined them. She’s been sleeping in the corner for the last three hours.
