Just One Kiss (Very Irresistible Bachelors 2)

I could read it out loud to her, but since she’d started reading, she loved doing it by herself. It took a while longer, but I loved watching her. I could practically feel her light up. The Ballroom Galas were so legendary that even Avery knew about them.

When she turned around, she was smiling from ear to ear. I melted on the spot. I hadn’t seen her this happy in a while.

“Mommy,” she whispered. “I don’t understand. It says here it is for me.”

“It is.”

“But kids at my school say only important people go.”

“I guess you’re important, lovebug.”

“Can I go without you?”

What?

I waved my own invitation in front of her. “I’ve got one too.”

“So, you’re important too?”

I burst out laughing. She looked almost disappointed that she wasn’t the only important one here.

“Yes, lovebug.”

“And we’re going?”

“I have to check my calendar.”

I read over the note again, trying to buy myself time. But Avery was watching me with wide, expectant eyes. Then she wrapped her arms around me.

“Please, please, Mommy. I promise I’ll be good for a whole month. Go to bed early, not steal cookies.”

“You’ve been stealing cookies?” I feigned surprise.

She winced. “Sometimes. Please don’t be mad.”

“I’m not mad. But you have to be careful. They’re not good for your teeth.”

“Mommy! Please say yes.”

I was so torn. I wanted to make Avery happy. I wanted to make Ryker happy too... even though I had a hunch that involved far more than agreeing to the gala. But whatever reservations I still harbored, I just didn’t have it in myself to wipe Avery’s smile away. Which left me with only one outcome.

“Yes, we’re going.”

“Yeeeees! Thank you, Mommy.”

Avery jumped in my arms, lacing her small arms around her neck in one of those hugs I loved so much.

“Can I stay up late tonight?”

I laughed. Typical Avery. She’d gotten her way with one thing, and automatically pushed the next item on her agenda.

“No, honey. You still have to wake up early tomorrow.”

Avery pouted but didn’t insist. I was dying to try on a dress I thought would fit, but first had to put Avery to bed.

I shot Ryker a quick message.

Heather: Just received the invitations. Avery is psyched. And so am I.