Page 102 of The Troublemaker
“Congratulations on your marriage.We couldn’t think of what to get you, so we hope you enjoy.”My dad passes me a piece of paper.
Before I can open it, my mom tells us, “It’s a suite at The St.Regis for tonight.”She beams.
The guys all laugh, and when my mom turns toward them, they play it off as though they’re talking among themselves, when I know they heard.
“Mom… Dad…”
“We don’t need this.”I hear the panic in Hadley’s voice.
Thankfully, my mom can’t really see Leighton and Callie since their backs are to her because they’re biting their lips and their eyes are wide.
“We wanted to get you a wedding gift.We’re here.Tanner is used to us now.”Mom glances at him asleep against her.“Easton doesn’t have a game tomorrow.Go enjoy yourselves, and we don’t want to see you back until late tomorrow.”
That one noise Hadley always makes when she’s nervous comes out, and I stand, wanting to make this better for her.
“Mom, honestly?—”
“We’re not taking no for an answer.”My dad steps in.“You two deserve it.Go enjoy yourselves.”
Hayes grins.“Yeah, go enjoy yourselves.Room service, champagne.”
“Robes and a bubble bath,” Foster adds.“Maybe some strawberries.”
“But stop for condoms.You don’t need another little one so soon.”Hayes eyes Tanner.
Both Leighton and Callie turn around and glare at the guys.
Decker says nothing, but Penelope pats Hadley’s hand.“It will be nice for you guys to get away.”
I guess Penelope isn’t as big a rule-follower as her husband.
“Exactly,” my mom says.“Penelope understands.And I’m sure Leighton and Callie do too.Parents need to get away.They need time to connect.”
I glance at Hadley.We really have no choice here.We’re going to The St.Regis.
“Thanks, Mom and Dad,” I say.
Hadley stands from the table.“Yes, thanks, Holly and Austin.”
“You’re more than welcome.Then you two can go on an actual honeymoon when the season’s done—afterthe celebration in Lake Starlight.”
“Love how you snuck that in there.”I chuckle.
“Celebration in Lake Starlight?”Callie says.“Sign me up!”
I glare at her, and she just laughs.
“Let’s go so you can pack and be on your way.”My dad gets the diaper bag and the stroller.
Everyone gets up to leave, and I take Hadley’s hand, leaning in and whispering, “I’m sorry.”
“We’ve made it the past three nights.We can handle a hotel room.”Her smile doesn’t reach her eyes, though.
She has to be doubting our willpower as much as I am right now.
Tonight might mark something memorable—the day we broke and fucked up this whole thing.
The problem is, I’m not sure I want to stop it at this point.
