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Lynda and Ray give me quick cheek kisses, Warren does the same with a gentle hug. Annie comes to stand in front of me, her hands on her hips, gaze on my leg.
“This looks much better.” The last time she saw my leg was in the hospital post-surgery when the swelling and bruising were at their peak.
“Getting better,” I repeat what I tell her every time we talk.
“A lot’s coming up, including Ashlyn’s shower next month. Are you ready to get better, or have you gone soft?”
Everyone is quiet, and I’m pretty sure there are a few ready to burst out laughing. I lean to Evin, keeping my eyes on Annie. “Evin, sweetheart, your mother,” I sneer the term, “is the second person in the last thirty minutes to insinuate I’ve been milking my injury. Have you been telling people I’m a slack ass?”
“Not a chance.”
“Well, maybe you’re right about her meddling in my care. We should head back to Vegas before Rexwell fills my spot on his schedule.”
“That’s why I didn’t unpack. Tried to warn you she’s a problem. Flights are available every day. Tell me when.”
Annie’s lips twist, her eyes flipping back to me and him, and her face turns pink. “The hell you’re leaving! Meddling my ass! I’ve got work to do. Swear my kids have no damn respect.”
At this, there’s a roar of enjoyment and my head falls to his shoulder. He kisses the tip of my nose before moving his lips to my ear. “Keep it up, baby. Love that spark.”
A thrill rolls through me, and I smile up at him. “I love you.”
“Who wants cocktails?” Dante sings, bringing all attention his way. He’s rolling out a tray loaded with options. “Oh, God, are they getting gushy already?”
“No, they have turned her against me. My children are demons.” Annie huffs, winking at me.
“I’ll help,” Darby offers, leaving Pierce’s side.
“Should she be on her feet?” Ryanne whispers.
“I’m fine,” Darby insists, overhearing.
“She’s good at that,” Maya adds, “plus she’s stubborn.”
“I’m only good at it because my family likes to talk behind my back. And stop listening to your dad. I’m not stubborn.”
“Well, we just met but it has to be said; you look like you’re about to pop.”
“Oh my God, will everyone stop!”
“Nope, get your ass off your feet,” Pierce demands, “or I’ll get you off them.”
Darby snaps her eyes to him and tosses her hair over her shoulder, going to the door. “You act like a caveman, you’re sleeping with Cole tonight.”
“We’ll see.” Pierce grins in a sexy way that shows he’s not concerned.
“Here we go,” Cole utters, looking amused.
“Evin, I have a truck full of equipment. You and Poppy want to tell me where it goes?” Warren breaks in.
My joyful mood dulls. “Take it back to your house. I don’t want any of it.”
Evin stands, his eyes dancing as he brushes his fingers through my hair, speaking to his dad. “Let’s get it inside.”
“Seriously, Evin, I don’t want a wheelchair. We weren’t even using the one in Vegas. I’ll compromise he can leave the shower seat.”
I don’t add that the shower seat is only for when Evin doesn’t shower with me and support my weight.
“Rexwell gave me orders to have one here. You don’t use it, fine, but it’s staying.”
“I agree, Popsy. All these pregnant women can’t handle you if you fall. Better to be safe for the sake of the next generation,” Dante chirps.
“No one asked you,” I gripe, knowing he’s right. The wheelchair is a precaution.
“We brought you something that might help bring that smile back.” Lynda produces a bag out of nowhere, handing it over. Devin clutches it on my lap, gnawing on the edge.
I glance inside and my emotions take another swing. Inside is a new yoga mat, blocks, elastic bands, and an inflatable medicine ball. “Thank you,” is all I can say over my scratchy throat.
“Evin said you left your things back in Vegas. These are for your home training.”
“They are perfect.” I raise my eyes to the woman and her husband considered a part of the extended Graham family, trying to control the urge to burst into tears.
She acts fast, hugging me so my face is hidden, and giving me time to suck in a few deep breaths. “You’re where you need to be. We are all pushing until you dance again.”
I nod, beating down the reaction at her kindness. That’s it, she’s said it. I want to dance again. And at this moment, it hits me hard. I will dance again. No matter what. “I will dance again,” comes out raspy.
She backs away, her eyes warm with love.
“Y’all about done? The martinis are ready,” Annie calls.
“Shit, you’ll need the wheelchair tonight if you have one of those.”
“Then bring it in.” I glance up at him. “Let’s enjoy our welcome home.”
