Misty gave Gabriella a grateful smile. “I think I’d like that. My own mother didn’t have a chance to teach me anything more than how to use the microwave. This is one of those times when your generosity—” Her voice cracked, and she couldn’t finish her thought.
Gabriella reached over and squeezed Misty’s hand. “We’re here for everything and anything you need. Remember that, sweetheart. Just let us know when you’re ready to plan the wedding, and we’ll arrange to pay for whatever you’d like. A big church wedding or a small family gathering. It’s up to you two.”
“One problem,” Misty said.
Gabriella tipped her head. “What’s that?”
“Gabe hasn’t proposed.”
“I was about to.”
Misty straightened her spine. “Well, don’t. I’m not sure I can accept right now.”
Gabe’s brows shot up. “Is it because I left you at the coffee shop? I’m sorry. I really shouldn’t have done that, I know.”
Misty shook her head. “That didn’t help, but no. That’s not all of it.” She faced Gabe’s parents. “I don’t want Gabe to ask just because ‘it’s the right thing,’ according to everyone else.” She used air quotes to indicate it might not be the right thing at all. “I don’t think he’d be proposing if I weren’t pregnant. Even if I am a catch.” She winked at him.
He grinned. “You are that, and more.”
“Yeah, but mymorecomes with major drawbacks.”
“Do you mean your MS?”
“Well, yeah. I don’t know what’s in store for me. You watched those videos. This disease can be devastating.”
“I feel bad for you, but I’m looking at it philosophically. Sometimes life slaps you in the face. It’s how you react that matters. I hope I can always behave like a good person, even though I’m far from perfect. I promise to make sure you get the care you need.”
“Yeah, medical care.”
“If you’re talking about moral support, I seem to remember holding you while you cried. I imagine it won’t be the last time.”
She worried her lip and was quiet for so long, he felt the need to fill the silence.
“Why don’t we see how it goes? I understand your reluctance. I can do better. Iwilldo better.” He stood and moved behind her chair. “I can give you killer massages.” He kneaded her neck and shoulders while she sighed, and everyone watched the tension melt away.
After a few moments, Misty said, “I’m exhausted. Would you mind if I go upstairs and take a nap?”
“Of course not,” Gabriella said right away. “I remember how tired I got during my pregnancies. It’s been a stressful day.”
Misty snorted, excused herself, put her water glass in the dishwasher, then left.
“Antonio, would you excuse us for a couple of minutes? I’d like to talk to Gabe alone.”
Gabe’s father rose and pushed in his chair. “Have at it. I’ll be in the man cave downstairs.”
In a few moments, Gabe was alone with his mother, who looked over at him and smiled sweetly.Oh no.That smile could mean a number of things. Not all of them good.
“Gabriel, dear, do you remember my telling you that someday I would sit down and introduce you to yourself?”
Gabe chuckled. “Yeah. Something about my being your most sensitive son or that kind of bull—I mean, baloney.”
She reached over and patted his hand. “That’s right. You may not believe it, but I do know my sons.”
Gabe leaned back in his chair. “Why wouldn’t I believe it? Dad’s the one who gets us mixed up.”
She chuckled. “That’s not what I meant. All of my sons are special—and not just paranormally. Ryan is rebuilding a castle in Ireland with his wife, Miguel and Sandra are preparing to take over as heads of the family along with Jayce and Kristine. In some ways, you’re the one I worry about the most and the least.”
“Now I’m even more confused.”
