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“Absolutely,” Ariel agrees, grinning broadly. “And now that we’ve met you, I’d say our mission was a success.”
“Mission accomplished,” Jordania echoes, flashing me a warm smile.
The light of their smiles fills the room, creating a sense of belonging I haven’t felt in years. As we sit in the living room, our conversation is lively and animated, each woman sharing stories about Percival that unveil new layers of his personality.
“Did you know that Percival tried to start a rock band when he was a kid?” Ariel jokes, sipping her coffee. “He called it ‘Percival and the Passionate Pumas.’”
“Passionate Pumas?!” I write on my phone, trying to suppress a giggle. With every word they say, I feel more intrigued by this man I’ve only just begun to know.
“Yep,” Jordania chimes in, her dark eyes sparkling with mischief. “Morgan, his sister, told us he even insisted on wearing leather pants every day, despite the fact that he could barely move in them.”
“Leather pants don’t sound very… breathable,” I type quickly, my amusement growing.
“Trust me, they weren’t,” Rose adds, laughing at the memory. “But that’s just Percival for you—always aiming for the stars.”
“Speaking of which,” Rose mutters, placing a hand on her belly. “This little one has been giving me quite the run for my money lately.”
“Morning sickness?” I write, offering her a sympathetic smile.
“More like all-day sickness,” she sighs, rubbing her temples. “But it’ll be worth it in the end. I mean, look at what I have waiting for me.” She beams as she shows us a picture of Caleb, her adorable toddler.
“Aw, he’s gorgeous!” I write enthusiastically, admiring the photo. “You must be so excited to meet your new baby.”
“Absolutely,” Rose agrees with a weary smile. “It’s just… exhausting being pregnant, you know? But as long as I have my girls here for support, I know I’ll make it through.”
“Always,” Ariel and Jordania chime in unison, their bond evident in every word they speak.
With sunlight streaming in through the window, I catch a glimpse of Ariel playfully imitating Percival’s exaggerated swagger. Jordania and Rose join in, doubling over with laughter at the theatrics. The warmth of camaraderie fills the room, and it’s contagious—I find myself grinning ear to ear, my heart swelling with affection for these newfound friends.
“Your brother-in-law is a character,” I write, chuckling as Jordania gives her best impersonation of Percival’s signature wink. “It’s nice to see this side of him through all of you.”
“Trust me, Spencer, there’s never a dull moment with Percival around,” Ariel replies, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “He may be a bit of a flirt, but he’s got a heart of gold.”
“Speaking of Percival,” Rose interjects, cradling her pregnant belly, “I think we’ve thoroughly embarrassed him enough for one day. What do you say we stick around for lunch?”
“Great idea!” Jordania exclaims, her purple hair bouncing with enthusiasm. “Spencer, would you mind? We could order takeout.”
I pause for a moment, considering their request. My culinary skills leave much to be desired, but something about sharing a meal with these vibrant women feels like the perfect way to strengthen our blossoming bond.
“Of course!” I write, excitement bubbling up within me. “Let’s do it. I don’t cook, but I know a great Thai place nearby that delivers. How does that sound?”
“Delicious!” Ariel approves, her face lighting up at the suggestion. “I’ll grab the menu, and we can figure out what everyone wants.”
As the women excitedly discuss their favorite dishes, I take a moment to soak in the scene before me: the sun-drenched living room, the unexpected company, so welcome in my quiet world; and the chance to learn more about the enigmatic Percival Hills, who brought us all together.
“Cheers to new friends,” I write on my phone, holding it up as a toast.
“Cheers!” They echo in unison, raising their glasses and clinking them together. And with that, we settle in for an afternoon of shared stories, delicious food, and the beginning of something truly special.
Chapter Thirty-One
Percival
ThemomentIopenthe door, a wave of laughter and the enticing aroma of food washes over me. It’s a welcome change from the sterile air and tense atmosphere of work, making my heart swell with warmth. As I step inside, I spot Spencer in the kitchen, her green eyes sparkling.
“Hey, you,” I greet her with a grin, feeling the exhaustion of the day dissipating with each step I take toward her.
“Hi!” she replies cheerfully, her lips curving into a wide smile that mirrors my own. “How was your day?”
