“Told you.” He smirked at Chrissy, before moving to the kitchen island where Cindy sat near Poppy and Molly, who were both watching the reunion with “Aww” faces.
He cracked his knuckles and glanced at his mom. “See what they’re like? So huggy. Man.” He rolled his eyes and smiled.
“You need to marry that girl, Lucas. I want grandbabies.”
He kissed her cheek. “You’ll get ’em. One day, when it’s the right time.”
He glanced at Cindy, who had behaved herself so far but was now frowning.
He was tempted to go talk to Travis, but felt his hosting duties—and maybe God—prompt him to ask, “So, is there anything I can get you?” He motioned to the pink mocktail Sarah Walton had described as a “Fairy Floss Delight” when he’d messaged her and Bree about girly drinks they thought Bailey might like. “Need a refill?”
She shook her head.
He longed to go, but his feet had rooted to the ground. “Thanks for coming.”
“You don’t mean that.”
“Hey.” He touched her arm. “You are part of her family, and you know that’s important to her.”
She ducked her head.
“What is it?”
“It’s not that easy, you know.”
“What isn’t?” Being accepted by them? Well, Wayne liked him enough now, apparently having swallowed his pride and finally heard Bailey’s request to give Luc a chance. Luc and Rhett were tight, and he was pretty sure Bailey’s mom was like his and saw a wedding next year. As for Chrissy, he hoped his actions in bringing her home meant she’d give him a chance, too.
“Having babies,” Cindy whispered.
Oh. He glanced around, but everyone else was busy in other conversations. Looked like this was something God wanted him to step into. Lord, You better help me here. “I’m sorry.” It was always good to start with the truth.
She shook her head. “I just want one. You know how hard it is to see everyone else achieving their dreams and I can’t even get pregnant?”
The despair in her voice cracked the wall he’d had in place since she was so mean to Bailey. “Do you trust God?”
“I’m trying.”
“I can’t give you any answers, except if you’re God’s child, then you can always know He’s got you in the palm of His hands and you can trust Him with your future. That whatever happens, it’s ultimately going to be for good.”
She ducked her head, blinking rapidly. He grasped her arm. “I’ll be praying.”
Her chin dipped, then she slid off the stool and took her drink to the window, staring out at the sunset. He prayed for her, his gaze slipping to Bailey as she wrapped her arms around his waist. “What was that about?”
“She’s hurting, but I think we might’ve turned a corner.”
She nodded, clasping his hand as they used to do for their dancing. “Thank you so much for bringing Chrissy here.”
He spun her, then lowered her into a dip. “You’re very welcome.”
He pulled her upright, and her hands stole around his neck. “Best boyfriend ever.”
“You know it.” He pressed his lips to hers, happy to let the world fade in this moment of perfection.
“Luc, stop kissing her. We’re going to be late,” Poppy called.
“Late to what?” Bailey asked.
“To your party.”
“But this is my party, isn’t it?” She glanced up at Luc.
“This is the pre-party. The real one is at the studio, with all your kids.”
“Really?” At his nod her jaw dropped. “Will there be dancing?”
“You betcha.” His head tilted to Poppy. “She’s been arguing with me all week about the best tunes.”
“I can’t believe it.” Bailey’s blue eyes lit with stars. “You’re throwing a dance party for me?”
“Of course I am. You’re worth it.” He smiled. “And I love you.”
“Aww!”
He shot a look at Molly and Poppy, both of whom were doing the chest pat and tilted head move. “What are you two looking at? Don’t you have another party to get to?”
Poppy pointed her finger at him. “We’re having a jive-off, just warning you.”
“Bring it.” He pointed to Travis and Rhett. “I hope you two are ready to learn some boss moves to do with your ladies.”
