A short while later, as Nicholas’ friend warmed up in front of us, someone handed Nicholas a message. He scowled as he read it.
He hurriedly scribbled something back and handed it to the guy once more before murmuring, “Cocksucker.”
I inquired, “What did it say?”
“He asked for your phone number.” He scowled as he turned to face me, but I could tell he wasn’t really angry because he laughed. “See? I told you. I know that look in his eyes.”
I made fun of him. “I’m certain he was teasing you. What did you write back, though?”
“I advised him to take his eyes off my wife if he wanted to continue playing with intact limbs.”
I laughed and gave his pouty mouth a kiss. Even though I hadn’t attended many sporting events-actually, ever-the rest of the game was a blast, and I was now more than willing to attend more. Half the fun was seeing Nicholas having a wonderful time.
Even better, Nicholas’ friend kicked the football in our direction. When it was about to hit, I swung around like a fool and covered my face, but Nicholas caught it in midair. He handed it to me, and as I read the writing on the ball, I laughed while he groaned.
[Mrs. Rowe, congratulations on your marriage. Message me if you need tickets for my next game!]
I didn’t even mind the traffic on the way back to our house after the winning game.
What started out as a horrible day turned out to be one of the best ones so far.
“Why don’t you try this one out?” Courtney asked.
When I saw the dress she was holding, I wrinkled my nose. Even though it was already Thursday, I still hadn’t found a dress for the wedding reception on Sunday.
“Red is improper for the occasion, in my opinion. I would choose something in white, champagne, or black… anything on that spectrum.”
I received numerous calls for interviews from the local media and gossip magazines after our wedding announcement appeared in the newspaper. Everyone was curious about the little girl who “stole Nicholas’ heart.”
Despite what Nicholas had said, I had been tracking all the opinions on the internet. It was uncomfortable seeing my name thrown around, but I also didn’t want to talk to anyone about my life.
Naturally, I didn’t want to add fuel to the fire by strutting around in a gaudy dress.
We selected the ideal one that went with my wishes to wear something refined and minimal. It had an off-white color and was strapless. As soon as I put it on, I knew it was perfect.
Courtney and I stopped for lunch at a local cafe after stowing the bags in the car.
“Are you looking forward to the party?” she asked.
I sighed. “I suppose. I’m a little uneasy around all their acquaintances, but Clara is excited enough for the both of us.”
Monday afternoon, when Clara and I had lunch, she told me that each and every person she had invited had accepted. Her excitement was contagious and I enjoyed listening to her gush about the arrangements. wouldn’t know where to start.
I knew Clara Rowe didn’t like to accept no for an answer. She had the ability to get anything he desired. That’s most likely where Nicholas acquired the same talent from. By the time our tea was over, which we enjoyed from sterling silver cups, she had persuaded me to assist her with a charity event she was throwing in a month.
We never got too intimate in our talk. When I attempted to bring up Nicholas and his father, she immediately shifted the topic. I began to wonder if she preferred to keep things casual or if Nicholas had specifically asked her not to tell me. figured Clara and I would come to know one another better as time went on. After all, she was my mother-in-law. For now, I knew her as someone I looked up to. She was kind and loved her family to infinity .
“Have you checked the list of guests? Is it Quentin’s elite?” The question from Courtney jolted me out of my reverie.
I shook my head. “No. I wouldn’t recognize them anyway. I only added two names from my side.” I smiled as I bit into my sandwich.
“Well, I appreciate the invitation. Actually, I’m going to attend with Geoffrey.” She offered me a timid smile as she slightly bowed her head.
“Really?” She laughed at her. “I anticipated that he would convince you eventually. Are you two together then?”
“I suppose I like him, though I wouldn’t say we’re an item.” She shifted while taking a mouthful of her salad. “He has sent me flowers and chocolates every day since we first met.”
“It sounds like he’s trying to charm you.”
“Yeah. I’ve made the decision to give it a shot with him. We’ll wait and see how that ends.”
“I think you guys are compatible. Could we possibly arrange a few double dates in the future?” I teased.
She nodded while smiling. “Yes, that would be nice. Hey, do you know what you’re getting Nicholas for his birthday yet?” she asked after a while.
As I threw my napkin on the table, I sighed. His birthday was the following week, and when I asked him what he wanted, he had offered me absolutely no assistance. He said that having me lying naked in his bed suffice as a gift .
Horny old man.
“No. I still have no idea. What do you purchase for the man who already has everything he needs and wants?”
“Give him something that doesn’t cost any money… or make something?”
It was simpler said than done. But while I pondered the ideal present I might offer him, her words stayed with me.
“Willow, hurry up. We are running late.”
I gave myself one final inspection in the mirror before finding my ensemble satisfactory. I didn’t need to bother about hair and makeup because Courtney, Lory, and I had been taken care of all day at a spa. However, it took some effort to ensure that my outfit fit me exactly.
“Coming,” I called before I walked out to see Nicholas waiting in the bedroom.