A Chance Encounter

She nods in understanding. “My teacher said we couldn’t eat our lollis until school was out because they make us run around fast.”

Yeah, I bet she did…

When we get home, the guys wait until we’re through the front door to take off. The second we walk in, I halt in place, stunned. Balloons—red, white, pink—everywhere. Roses, every color, are placed on every surface. And standing in the middle of the living room, holding the biggest heart-shaped box of chocolates I’ve ever seen, is the most handsome man.

“Easton!” Kendall squeals. “You’re back! Is that for me?” She runs over and throws her arms around him for a side hug before she grabs the large box in both her hands. “Wow!”

“Happy Valentine’s Day,” he says to her, kissing the top of her head.

“Thank you!” She drops onto the ground and goes about trying to open the wrapped chocolates.

“And this”—he grabs a large red gift bag from the couch and hands it to me—“is for you.”

I cut across the room and encircle my arms around his neck. “I missed you,” I mutter against his chest, as he wraps his arms around my waist. My bump is bigger, so it’s a bit awkward, but that doesn’t stop us. “I thought something was wrong. You didn’t answer my texts.”

“I was on a flight back here. I wanted to surprise you.”

“Well, I’m definitely surprised.” I stand on my tiptoes and kiss him. “Thank you.”

“Here, open your gift,” he says, taking my hand and the bag and walking us over to the couch. I glance at Kendall, who’s still working on removing all the plastic. She huffs and puffs, but she’s determined to get it undone and get that box open.

Inside the bag is a box. I open it up and find the most exquisite red dress from a high-end maternity store.

“It’s beautiful. Thank you.” I kiss Easton’s cheek.

“It’s for tonight. I’m taking you out on our first date.”

“What?”

“My parents are going to spend the night with Kendall, so we can go out. I realized this morning, everything we’ve been through, and we still haven’t been on a single date.”

I giggle at the absurdity because he’s right. We’ve never actually been out, just the two of us.

“We don’t have to go out tonight. Won’t that ruin their Valentine’s Day?”

“My mom offered. They went away last weekend to celebrate and she said they’re planning to order in some food and hang out.”

“I get to play with Alicia?” Kendall overhears. “Yay!” She tears the plastic off and lifts the lid. “Ohhh… Wow!”

“Only one,” I tell her, bursting her chocolate-loving bubble.

“What?” She pouts. “But…”

“One,” I repeat. “You’ve had enough sugar today.”

“Fine.” She picks one out and pops it into her mouth. “So yummy,” she mumbles around her full mouth.

After showering and doing my hair, which I curl into large waves, I put on the dress Easton bought. It fits me perfectly, comfortable while showing off my bump. Since it’s chilly outside, I pair it with my knee-high black boots that are perfect for the snowy walkways. I grab my new black puffer coat with its faux fur hood I got in Big Bear and throw it over my arm. It’s too warm in here to put on.

I carefully descend the stairs, and when I reach the first floor, I find Alicia and Sean sitting with Easton and Kendall, chatting. At the sound of me entering, Easton glances up and stands, now sporting the most delicious suit—sans tie, with the top buttons undone.

“You look…” He shakes his head. “Perfect.”

I flush, knowing we’re in front of his parents. “Thank you. You look so handsome. I’ve never seen you this dressed up.”

“Oh, Sophia, you look beautiful,” Alicia gushes. “Stand together so I can take your picture.”

We do as she says, and she takes several pictures. “I feel like we’re going to prom,” I joke.

Easton laughs. “Except I can’t knock you up since you’re already pregnant.” He waggles his brows.

“Easton!” I playfully smack his chest, making his parents laugh.

“Mommy, you look so pretty,” Kendall says, walking over and running her hand down the material of my dress.

“Thank you, Sunshine. Be good for Alicia and Sean, okay? I’ll be home in a few hours.”

Easton clears his throat. “Actually, they’re spending the night. I set up the guestroom for them. We won’t be home until tomorrow.”

I open my mouth to question why, but he’s already shaking his head. “Nope, no questions.”

“More surprises?” I groan half playfully, half seriously.

The corners of Easton’s lips curl into a mischievous grin. “Let’s go, Dash. The night awaits.”

After saying goodbye to everyone, I put on my coat, and we head outside. Waiting in front of our door is a large, sleek stretch Hummer limo. Easton takes my hand and helps me down the sleek steps, as several paparazzi flash their cameras and fling questions our way. Neither of us pays them any mind, but I do notice Easton’s security team is situated on either side so nobody can come too close. A gentleman, who is standing by the limo door, opens it when we approach and greets us with a smile, then Easton helps me into the vehicle. I slide in and Easton follows, the door closing behind him.