“Happy birthday to you!” I bounce Haddy on my hip with every word, and she gazes around her birthday party in awe.
We’re all in awe. Clint turned Miss Gina’s patio and gardens into a balloon-filled oceanic wonderland built around his “Mermazing” theme. The entire place looks like we’ve gone under the sea, Disney-style.
The sidewalk entrance that leads up the hill to Miss Gina’s gardens is lined with balloons of all shapes and sizes in a beige color, as if you’re traveling from the sand into the waves.
Opening the wrought-iron gates, guests enter a tunnel of balloons with jellyfish streamers and small tables holding goblets of fizzy pink punch for the kids and glasses of champagne for the adults.
At both ends of the tent, massive arches of sea green, periwinkle blue, purple, and pink balloons of all shapes and sizes open to a patioscape of trees with gobs of clear-balloon tops.
We stand at the back presentation table surrounded by undersea creatures made of balloons, and arches over the pool hold large, clear spheres.
“This is the second time I really wish I could see my patio,” Miss Gina says, laughing as Rachel leads her closer to where we stand with the babies beside their cakes.
“I can hardly believe my eyes,” Rachel replies. “How in the world did they do it?”
“They’ve been out here all week,” Miss G says.
Both the birthday girls are dressed in mermaid-inspired outfits with a pink onesie for Gigi and purple one for Haddy. They wear matching tutus in the theme colors.
Liv stands on the other end of the table holding a squirming Gigi, and we barely get to blow out the candles before both girls are on their feet, toddling around the party.
Their daddies aren’t far behind them, making sure they don’t fall into the pool or knock over a table of cupcakes and treats of all shapes and sizes.
Both girls started walking on the same day, and Garrett and Hendrix have been arguing about who took the first step ever since.
We were at the park blowing bubbles and watching the guys throw the football when it happened.
“It was Gigi, because she loves dogs,” Garrett says. “She finally came out of Liv because that lady at the park had a dog.”
Liv’s eyes meet mine, and I almost choke on my champagne. “It’s not a competition, babe.
“They’re walking now, and we’re never sitting down again,” I tease.
“I’m winning this, Cherry.” He cuts playful eyes at her.
Hendrix shakes his head. “It was Haddy, because she loves football. She was trying to come out onto the field with us.”
“Who wants a mermaid cupcake?” I hold up a lavender-topped cake with a perfectly designed, strawberry-blonde mermaid on top. “This one looks like Liv!”
“I think Kimmie is having the most fun of everyone.” Allie stands beside me holding her glass of champagne and watching Jack’s daughter run from the bounce house to the balloon maze then sliding into the ball pit.
She’s wearing a dress with a lavender top and pale green tulle skirt, and Clint follows her all over the party telling her to pose here and stop there and taking pictures of everything.
“I think my favorite part is how he did their names.” I point to the massive balloon arrangements spelling out both girls’ names on each side of the patio.
“That topiary starfish with the seahorse is incredible.” Dylan nods at the five-foot structure made of roses, daisies, and hydrangea flowers.
“I’ve never seen anything like this.” The stuffy male voice makes my chest freeze, and I turn just in time to hear my sister’s voice.
“This is the coolest party I’ve ever seen!” Amelia runs through the toddler-sized tables to give me a hug. “It’s straight out of the Kardashians!”
“I didn’t know you were bringing Dad.” I walk back the way she came to where my father stands, seeming bewildered by all the stations of food and candy and balloons.
“Raven, this is quite a party.” He leans down to give me a kiss, but the skin on the back of my neck tenses.
“You don’t have to pass judgment.” My tone is cool. “You can simply enjoy it.”
His brow lowers. “I have no intention of passing judgment.”
Taking my sister’s hand, I lead her away from him to where the Bradford ladies are standing. “Dylan, Allie, Rachel, Liv, this is my little sister Amelia.”
“I know Amelia!” Dylan skips forward to give my sister a hug. “It’s been four years, but you haven’t changed a bit!”
“Do I still look seventeen?” Mimi cries, putting her hands over her face. “That explains a lot.”
“You look very youthful.” Dylan takes her hand, leading her to the drinks table. “But I know you’re twenty-one. Have some champagne.”
“Look at my little Haddy-boo walking!” Mimi drops to her knees, and Haddy squeals, smiling as she wobbles quickly to my sister.
Amelia scoops her up as Hendrix leans down to give her a hug. “Hey, girl. You’re looking good.”
“I’d say the same to you!” She gives him a wink, and my eyebrows shoot up.
“Mr. Gale.” Hendrix reaches out to shake his hand. “Good to see you again, sir.”
“Congratulations to you on winning the Big Game. That was a very impressive catch.” Hendrix nods, and my dad turns to me. “What was that about you saving a life during it?”
Someone tipped off the big LA newspaper about Star and me helping with the plane crash, and they put it on the front page. From there, the gossip site TMI found it, and after that, we went viral again. Only this time, audiences were unified in their response.
The LA Times headline read “Bradford Saves Super Bowl, Wife Saves Councilwoman’s Son,” but the TMI site went all out with “SUPER BOWL WIFE SAVES A LIFE!!!” I didn’t even know the boy we rescued was the son of a city council woman until TMI told me.
Along with the viral posting of the rescue, everyone was discussing how Hendrix shut Mikayla down after the game. It only took a few days and the loss of several thousand followers for her to remove her videos insulting me after the parking lot incident.
“The consensus is I’m not so average anymore,” I joke.
“Raven’s a hero.” Liv pulls up the TMI story on her phone. “I still don’t understand why they use so many exclamation points.”
My father sniffs at the screen. “It does seem to be shouting at us.”
“I’d say that’s something to shout about.” Hendrix puts his arm around my waist and gives me a squeeze. The warmth of him at my back eases my tension.
“The station manager where I work needed my help using this new software. She couldn’t find our chief meteorologist to help her.”
“Did the weather have something to do with the crash?” My father is confused.
“The weather doesn’t actually change all that much in LA, so we also cover traffic and do special reports, things like that,” I explain.
“Well, that’s very good. I’m proud of you.”
He gives me a warm smile, and an unexpected knot clogs my throat. What in the world? I am not about to cry over this.
“Thank you,” I manage. “If you’ll excuse me a minute.”
Turning away, I start for the guest cottage when he calls after me. “Raven, I’d like to speak with you. Alone.”
I stop walking, and my eyes fly to Hendrix, who’s watching the entire situation like a hawk. My eyes sweep over the party, searching for an excuse.
All the guests have returned to eating cake. Liv has Gigi in the bounce house, holding her fingers as she bends her knees and tries to jump. Mimi and Dylan are fighting over who gets to hold a squirmy Haddy.
Craig is suggesting he and Garrett don wigs and mermaid costumes and turn this into a dance party. Kimmie slides into the ball pit, and Clint is taking pictures nonstop.
Everything’s under control except my emotions.
Hendrix walks up beside me, taking my hand. “Want me to stick around?”
Pressing my lips together, I’m inclined to say yes. Instead, I give his hand a squeeze. “Keep an eye on things. I’ll be right back.”
I lead my father down the flagstone path to where a wooden platform faces the bay. A large bougainvillea-lined arch stands over a wrought-iron bench.
“This is a lovely spot.” Dad looks out at the water. “Seems like a nice group of people here.”
“The Bradfords are wonderful. They build each other up, and they take care of their family.”
His eyes slide to mine, and he clears his throat. “I wasn’t happy with the way your last visit went. Then Amelia showed me a video of Lawrence saying terrible things to you outside the Peach Pit. I didn’t like what I heard.”
“Did you know Mom set up the trust the way she did with him in mind?” My tone is pointed.
“I know your mother thought you and Lawrence made a good match.”
“Because he demeaned and insulted me my entire life the same way she always did?”
“Because she loved you very much. She came from nothing, and she never wanted you to know that kind of life.”
“She was cruel, and you never said a word.” My throat aches, and a wobble is in my voice. “You could’ve protected me, and you didn’t.”
“I didn’t think you needed protection.” His voice changes. “You were always quick to speak your mind.”
“I was a child.” My eyes are wide as I look up at him. “I was hurting. You have no idea what it’s like…” Shaking my head, I turn away, doing my best to calm my breathing. “I spent so many years getting over what happened in that house. I’m not about to pretend you were there for me when you weren’t.”
My chest hurts, and I start to leave. His voice stops me.
“You’re right.” It’s a somber tone. “When I heard the things Lawrence said to you, I was furious. I spoke to Thurman about it, and he has spoken to his son. I expect you will receive a formal apology from him—whether you choose to accept it or not is up to you.”
I don’t speak. Doing the right thing doesn’t require a response.
“As for your mother…” He pauses, then continues at a slower pace. “I didn’t defend you when you were young. I’m sorry.”
A fountain trickles somewhere nearby. I watch a line of pelicans glide smoothly over the water in a V formation.
Lifting my chin, I look up at him. “Why didn’t you? Did you think she was right?”
“Occasionally, you needed correction, but I thought you were a very beautiful, very smart, and very talented young woman.”
“So why didn’t you help me?” It’s a cracked whisper.
He puts a hand on his chest, looking down at his expensive shoes. “I didn’t know anything about children. Your mother seemed very sure of herself… and she was your mother.”
“That didn’t make it right.”
“No, it didn’t.” His voice is quiet. “Perhaps one day, you’ll find it in your heart to forgive me.”
The knot is still in my throat, but I force a nod. “I don’t want to be angry with you, but… I think I need a little time.”
“I understand.” He takes a step down from the platform. “I’ll be heading back to my hotel, then I’m leaving in the morning. I placed a gift for Hayden on the table.”
“Thank you.”
Pausing one more time, he looks back at me. “I like your husband very much. He’s a good man.”
“Yes, he is.”
“He won’t make the same mistakes I did.”
With that, he continues swiftly down the flagstone path in the direction of the exit.
“No, he won’t,” I say under my breath.
The briny breeze touches my cheek. I remember an old saying about salt water and healing… sweat, tears, and the sea. Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself… So many mantras. I know them all.
Inhaling a cleansing breath, I know what to do. Healing will come, and I’m starting at a far better place this time. I have a sweet baby girl and a very good man—and a party to attend.
When I get to the patio, Kimmie is holding a stuffed pink turtle for Gina and a purple one for Haddy.
“They’re your new cooters,” she announces, and I duck with a snort.
I happen to know a cooter is a turtle, but it’s still hilarious to hear a six-year-old say it so casually. Haddy pushes Axel at her and squeals.
“Axel can be friends with your cooter,” Kimmie says, trying to tuck the turtle under her baby cousin’s arm. “Tell her, Eddie!”
Edward’s brow furrows, and he looks around the decorated patio. “It’s probably not a good idea to have so many balloons in a yard full of newborn kittens.” Edward’s logical tone reminds me of Mr. Spock from the old Star Trek movies.
He’s got the dispassionate delivery on lock.
“Hey, man, want to head back to the restaurant?” Austin calls as he jogs up to them. “Sadie’s bringing Oliver, and we’re going to play some pool.”
“Aussie!” Kimmie stands, going over to take his hand. “Come with me. Daddy said I could get in the pool if you or Edward would swim with me.”
“I’m not swimming, KJ, and Edward’s coming with me. Get Miss Dylan to swim with you.”
“Aunt Deedee has to peel peppers for tomorrow’s Dare Night, and she doesn’t have time to wash her hair.” Kimmie all but stomps her foot, but Austin isn’t swayed. “Then get Uncle Grizz to swim with you. He’ll do it.”
“Aussie, I want you,” she whines, holding his hand in both of hers and shaking it. “I can’t watch the babies and swim!”
“Look! A kitten is trying to attack that balloon arch!” He points, and Kimmie gasps.
“Where?” She turns and starts running in the direction of the party, her little shoes slapping on the flagstones.
Austin punches Edward on the shoulder. “Come on, let’s go.”
“If a kitten is attacking that balloon arch, it could get a real fright. Some of those balloons are huge…”
He grabs Edward’s arm and drags him toward the exit. “I made it up, now come on.”
“Bye, guys!” I laugh, waving as I go to retrieve my abandoned toddler, who is now shaking Axel in one hand and the stuffed turtle in the other.
“Oh… Hi, Miss Raven.” Austin is at least embarrassed. “Great party!”
“It does give the impression of being under the sea.” Edward looks around. “It’s an interesting concept.”
“Thanks, guys.” I smile warmly. “And thanks for coming. I know baby birthday parties aren’t the most fun at your age.”
“I didn’t find any kittens!” Kimmie shouts as she runs back to where I’m standing.
Austin pulls Edward’s arm again, and the boys take off jogging away.
“Auntie Rave, where’s Austin and Eddie?” Her hands are on her hips, and her brown curls are a frizzy mass around her shoulders.
“They had to go.” Reaching down, I catch her hand. “Help me take the birthday girls back to the party, okay?”
“I’ve been helping them walk.” She nods, trying to hold Gigi’s arm. Gigi makes an angry squeal, waving her arm up and down and out of Kimmie’s grasp. “They’re a little wobbly.”
“They haven’t been at it very long,” I explain.
“That’s okay! I’ll help them get better. Miss Allie says I’m good at helping, and Haddy needs to know her cousin Kimmie.”
“Yes, she does!” We take their hands and make our way back to the party, toddler speed.
My dad’s words are on my mind and emotions twist in my chest.
His apology was one I didn’t even know I needed, and while I do need time and probably some counseling, I accept it. I want to forgive him, and that’s a big part of healing.
“I had a brilliant idea, Rave.” Dylan skips up to us. “While you’re here, we can do all the Thursday Dare dishes together! Want to?”
“Absolutely, I do!”
Hendrix walks up, scooping his daughter off her feet and kissing my cheek. “Everything okay?”
Nodding, I press my lips into a smile, looking up at the two of them. Haddy is already squealing and struggling to get down again.
“He apologized. He even complimented you.”
“Hey—that’s…” He bends down to put Haddy on her feet again, then he straightens, holding my gaze. “Good?”
“It’s really good.”
Later that evening at Cooters & Shooters, we’re sitting around a big table with Grizz and Liv, Logan and Dylan, Rachel and Zane, and Jack.
Amelia is on the side porch playing pool with Austin, Edward, and the teenage gang. Gigi and Haddy are asleep on their respective daddies. Kimmie is conked out on a bench, using a stuffed cooter for a pillow, and Dylan is showing me her idea for dare recipes on the iPad Pro she uses in the kitchen.
“You fell asleep watching movies?” Garrett frowns. “That sounds like a tough habit to break down the line.”
“I always fell asleep watching football.” Hendrix leans back, patting Haddy’s little back.
“You could transition to books,” Zane suggests, and I imagine his low voice reading a bedtime story.
“That would put me to sleep,” I say.
“Worked for me!” Dylan chirps up.
“Wait, tell me more—” Rachel scoots forward, smiling brightly. “You watched old movies together? That’s so cute… Which ones?”
“Let’s see…” I think, counting off on my fingers. “Forrest Gump, When Harry Met Sally, Steel Magnolias…”
“Hated it.” Hendrix interrupts, and all the girls gasp. “She died!”
“Okay, that part was sad,” I agree. “Rocky…”
“Now that was some good shhhh…” Four pairs of eyes cut to him, and he grins. “Stuff.”
“La La Land…”
“Worst ending ever.”
“Driving Miss Daisy…”
“Cock blocker.”
“Hendrix!” Dylan cries. “Miss Daisy is not a…” Her eyes meet mine, and she seems to understand immediately.
We fall back laughing, and Logan clears his throat. “Back to what we were saying… Whether you keep going or not, you’ve got your legacy.”
“Yes, I do. It’s right here.” Hendrix nods, patting his little girl as his pretty blue eyes meet mine. “But maybe I’ll keep playing a little longer?”
I reach out to squeeze his hand. “We can do that.”
Liv walks over with her phone. “Clint has started posting pictures—check them out!”
We spend a minute laughing and cooing over the candid images. He has a shot of Haddy with her face in a slice of cake and one of Gigi lying on the back of a blow-up octopus.
I follow the social media account on my phone. “I wonder if he can send us the originals so we can make prints.”
“We have to frame the Dylan twins’ first birthday party,” Allie laughs, joining us.
A longneck is in her hand, and Jack isn’t too far behind, walking over with his hands on his hips. I’m pretty sure I’m the only one who notices his eyes drift down to her ass. Interesting.
She takes out her phone, and I’m about to tell her Clint’s business handle when the color drains from her cheeks. She blinks quickly, and it’s like she sees a ghost.
“Allie?” Dylan stands quickly, going to her. “What’s wrong?”
Allie’s always so feisty and fun. I’ve never seen her like this. She hugs her waist, seeming to shrink.
“It happened,” she whispers. “I set up an alert on my phone…”
Jack is at her side at once. “What happened?”
He reads us the brief that Rip Sinclair was released on probation.
“He said as soon as he got out, he’d…” Allie clears her throat, her eyes flying to the pool area. “Don’t tell Austin.”
“Don’t you worry, girl.” Garrett steps up to her side. “I happen to know the sheriff.”
“And a good lawyer.” Liv is right there with him.
I give Hendrix a worried look. “Who is he?”
Allie sniffs, wiping her hands over her face like she’s regaining her footing after an unexpected gut punch.
“My ex,” she says. “He said when he got out he’d be back for us. Looks like he’s out.”
Dylan catches her around the waist. “We got you, Al.”
Jack and Zane exchange a look, and while I’ve only been in this family a few months, I can tell. It’s about to get real interesting around here.
