Page 153 of Tempting Miles
“Besides my wife,” Mr. Levine says after a tense beat, “I don’t think anyone has ever put me in my place so eloquently.”
A few uneasy laughs break through the silence, but the tension still hangs thick.
“Penny,” he says more gently, “I’m sorry if my questions upset you. I guess, with everything that has been going on, the news took me by surprise.” He rubs the back of his neck awkwardly. “Especially because you never talked about wanting marriage or children.”
Penny’s shoulders sag slightly.
I inhale deeply, already preparing to rip this guy a new one, but she starts speaking before I can.
“Yeah, Dad. I never thought I wanted something serious… something real… until Miles.”
She looks up at me with a smile so beautiful it knocks the fight right out of me.
“The pregnancy news hit me like a blow to the gut at first. I’m not going to lie,” she admits with a small laugh. “This definitely wasn’t planned, it’s probably not the best way to start a relationship.”
A few people laugh softly.
“But Miles gave me the time to think things through. He never pressured me.” Her hand slips into mine. “And I’ve never been happier, Dad.”
I kiss the top of her head and whisper against her hair, “I fucking love you, boss.”
“We’re excited,” she continues softly. “Becoming parents wasn’t part of the original plan, but that doesn’t make this baby any less wanted or loved.”
Her arms wrap around my waist while mine settle around her shoulders.
A wet spot starts soaking through my shirt, and I silently curse her father for making her cry.
“We’re so incredibly excited, Penny,” Mama says as she walks out toward us.
Then, suddenly, Penny is swallowed into a giant hug between Mama, Mrs. Levine, Rain, and Ruin.
I exhale slowly, relief hitting me hard. My family is so fucking supportive.
“It seems like my mouth isn’t connected to my brain today,” Mr. Levine says sheepishly. “I’m sorry, darling. I was surprised, that’s all. But I’m happy for you.”
Penny breaks away from the group and throws herself into her dad’s arms.
“Thank fuck,” I murmur.
“How about we toast for the happy couple and the new addition to the MacAllister clan?” Gio says, popping open one of the champagne bottles.
“I hope you brought sparkling apple juice for the army of pregnant women in this family,” Rain says dryly.
I throw my head back in laughter. “I got you, sis. Be right back.”
I glance at Penny one more time to make sure she’s okay before heading toward the kitchen.
As the room fills with chatter, teasing, and celebration, one thing becomes clear.
This life I never thought I wanted?
It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.
Chapter 38
Miles
September
