Reckless

I burst out laughing. The stress, the pressure, the confusion . . . It all feels more bearable when I’m with my family.

I break the tension with, “Is there a geriatric version of the procreation prowl?” This time, he doesn’t choke. He tips his head back and howls. “Girl, did you really just say that to me?” “Hey, if you’re gonna dish it out, you gotta take it.”

“What edge? I’m relaxed. If you take too much edge off me, I might spill your beans just to get even.” His brows lift as he takes a sip out of his red Solo cup. “What beans?” I smirk and drink again. “The you and Cordelia beans.” He chokes on his drink, and I slap his back while he thumps a fist on his chest.

“Harvey, how much booze is in what I’m drinking right now?” He grins over at me from where we’re leaning against the fence. “Enough to take the edge off for you.”

I turn and walk away from him, ignoring his curses and threats. The smashing sound of the glass vase does nothing but make me smile. I feel like I tossed a grenade into that depressing house and walked away. I feel free.

I don’t even spare Rob a glance as we pass. I keep my chin high and my shoulders back. I don’t want to give him the satisfaction of acknowledging his presence. However, I do glance up at the handsome man I get to call my own. And as we pass my ex . . . Theo winks at him.

“Anything you want to say to this future wife of yours tonight, Silva?” I don’t need to think twice. I hold the mic up to my lips and murmur, “Te vivo.” It’s better than “I love you”. It’s more accurate.

But the real highlight was getting to spend some quality time with my family.” I tip my chin toward the fence. “Got my baby girl and my future wife here with me tonight. They make this win extra special.”

“I’m really mad at you, Theo.” “Understandable.” I glance down at the stroller beside us. Vivi’s wide dark eyes gaze up at me. “I’m mad at me too.” “Really, really fucking mad,” she amends. I dust my lips back and forth over her hair. “But you love me?” She doesn’t hesitate. “So much it hurts.”