Top Posts Tagged with #brian auclair

Cake by the Ocean

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Bryce Lahela x Luna Auclair (F!OC)

Words: 7,000+

Rating: Fluff mostly

Summary: It’s cake testing time. Though there might be a little miracle sprinkled in there.

Author‘s note: Thanks so much to @ofmischiefandmedicine for proof reading and basically being awesome and supporting me with this story ❤️ Thanks a bunch sweet cake ❤️

You’ll see a new character I’ll be introducing soon, her name is Dr. Meilani Leahi.

Side note: All characters belong to PB I only own my OC‘s.

Bryce and I are meeting with Evie to discuss more details for our wedding. It’s basically just the finishing touches. I got my dress and B has his tux.

Since it’s going to be a beach wedding we didn’t want anything to stuffy or too heavy in terms of clothes.

Both of us took some time off from work today to meet Evie.

We met at the Barefoot Bar at Waikiki beach. With a beautiful view of the crystal clear turquoise ocean. We’re sipping on some cold alcohol free drinks with little umbrellas in them. I actually took my sandals off, feeling the soft grass beneath my feet. I’m tapping my foot to the soft music that’s coming out of the speakers.

Evie dressed in a blue dress, with floral print in the form of hibiscuses, accented by gold hoop earrings and red lipstick. She grins and takes out her iPad to start jotting down ideas for the wedding.

She looks so cute and professional. I like seeing this side of her. Sunset Moments is getting the recognition it deserves.

Evie looks at us, her moss green eyes illuminated by gleams of sunlight.

She looks at both of us and says

“Okay so tomorrow is the cake testing, but I wanted to get down and set up the last details for your wedding,“ she looks expectantly at us.

Bryce and I decided to hire Sunset Moments. It’s my cousins wedding planning business. I want to trust the people who make our wedding dreams come true.

So I couldn’t imagine anyone better suited for the job than my family. I love it when plans actually work out the way you want them to.

“Getting down to business. What colors do you want as your main theme? Any ideas?“ she asks pen in hand

Bryce and I look at each other.

“Definitely a shade of green, but I’m not sure which one,“ I play with the little blue umbrella in my drink twirling it between my thumb and my forefinger.

Evie smiles at us and takes out color samples out of her bag. There are tons to choose from.

“I have various color samples and you guys can take a look and see if there’s something you like,“ she smiles

Both Bryce and take a set and take a look. We’re both instantly drawn to the soft shades of blue, pink and lilac. It has something soothing. That instantly calms down your soul.

Evie sees where our eyes have drifted to.

“So these for the color theme?“ she smiles and asks. Bryce and I both nod our agreement.

Before I open my mouth and ask what the name of the colors are.

“I know you’re going to ask, so the names of the colors are: light mauve, medium grape, blueberry, pale lavender, deft blue and dark lavender blue,“ she says

I nod as she writes down the color theme. Hopefully it’s not too much.

”You said you want it to be a beach wedding. What time do you want the ceremony to take place?“

Bryce is the one who speaks up first

”What about in the evening?“ he asks me while I rest my hand on his leg.

”I think that sounds good. Otherwise we’re all going to be a sweaty pile,“ I laugh.

”You’ve got your dress Looney? How about your tux Bryce?“ Evie asks us.

”We already have everything,“ he replies.

Evie nods and makes more notes.

“You’re making my job easier. I don’t actually have to do much,“ she takes a sip of her drink

She looks up from her notes and says

”You weren’t specific when it comes to your wedding cake. So I set up a cake testing for you to see if there’s something that you like,“ she hesitates

”What?“ I get concerned

”It would be next week. So you’d have to decide by next week what you fancy. I know that’s not a lot of time, but I think you’ll really like it. It’s this small, locally owned bakery by Mr. and Mrs. Whitehall it’s called Hibiscus Dreams. So what do you think?“ she‘s nibbling at her fingernails. Seemingly worried, though she got nothing to be worried about.

I smile and say

”You went to all this trouble for us. Of course we’re going to be there,“ I say and Evie looks relieved.

”Free cake samples? Who says no to that?“ B chimes in and I nod in agreement.

Evie closes her iPad with a snap and laughs at us. We continue to talk about things besides our wedding preparations.

We order more drinks, since it seems as if it’s going to be a hot day today. We also order some food. It’s delicious. They focus on home grown vegetables and fruit. Everything is organic. They also donate some of the food they can’t keep to various charities. Better to donate it before the food spoils and you have to throw it away. That would be such a waste.

We’re sitting at the table under an umbrella. To tell the truth I’m starving. That toast this morning didn’t fill me up.

When the food gets placed in front of us I can’t wait to dig in. Bryce ordered a fruit bowl and Evie went for a club sandwich.

I ordered a salad with strawberries, grilled chicken, feta cheese and avocado. They also added some balsamic. Sounds heavenly.

When I take the first bite I instantly regret it. I spew it in my napkin.

Bryce looks up from his fruit bowl.

”What’s wrong?“ he asks his brows dran together.

”This salad tatest kinda funny,“ I say and push it aside. Trying to wipe away the weird taste with some of the cocktail. I almost gag, but I try to hold it in.

Bryce keeps looking with a concerned face and takes my bowl closer to him

”Let me see,“ he takes a bite and when he chews he shrugs

”Tastes pretty normal to me,“ he looks at me and back at the bowl.

I just shake my head, but the sudden wave of nausea hits me so hard and out of nowhere that I jump up from our table. Both Bryce and Evie look at me in surprise. Bryce is about to go with me but I wave him off.

”Be right back,“ I mumble and make it to the bathroom just in time.

I lock myself in a stall and everything I ate today comes back up.

I break out in a cold sweat. Breathing hard. I let my head rest on the bathroom stall. Feeling it’s cool surface on my skin.

Praying to the porcelain gods is not funny. Let me tell you.

The door to the bathroom opens up and I hear Evie‘s voice coming closer.

”Looney you okay?“ she asks and I get up to open the door.

She takes one look at me and leads me to one of the sinks and orders me to splash some water on my face and neck.

I hang my head and still feel the nausea. It’s hasn’t ebbed up.

Evie just rubs my neck while I have to throw up again.

When I can feel like everything’s out I just lean onto the marble bathroom counter for support.

I haven’t felt this bad in a long time.

Evie looks through the mirror at me an says

”Bryce made an appointment with one of his colleagues at work. Before you can argue with me, yes you’re going. I know how you feel about doctors and hospitals, but it would be better to see what’s wrong. Bryce was paged so he had to leave but he asked me if I could go with you,“ Evie says to and I just nod.

Together we leave the bathroom, grab our stuff and go to that appointment.

God I hate hospitals. I just feel my anxiety go up as soon as I enter one. Especially when I know I have to go to a check-up. I’d rather run back home. The anti-septic smell is just too much.

We enter the Kuakini Medical Center where Bryce works. It’s so fresh on the inside. It use a coat of fresh paint. Maybe a decoration here or there. Keeping myself distracted by visualizing how this place could like.

We walk further inside and Evie goes straight to the reception desk.

”Hi we have an appointment with Dr. Leahi,“ Evie beams and we get directed to the elevator, before we can get inside Evie’s phone chimes with a new messages.

Evie looks down at her phone and curses.

”Damn. There’s a small wedding crisis going on. I have to fix this. Would you be mad if I had to go?“ she asks me

I shake my head at her

”Of course not. Go. I’ve got it,“ I say

She gives me a tight squeeze and touches my cheek gently.

I walk towards the elevator. As it goes up, I fiddle with the strap of my bag. I look up at all the different floors lighting up. Feeling uneasy to say the least. I try to use one of my breathing techniques I’Ve practiced with my therapist. I feel my muscles relax a bit.

The elevator dings, startling me.

I get out but from the looks of it, it seems I got off on the wrong floor. As I’m trying to get onto the elevator again, a brunette ponytail rushes into the elevator with me.

She looks at me. Her brown eyes assessing me silently.

”Visitation hours are over,“ she says.

I look up from pushing the elevator button.

”Excuse me?“ I ask her

She rolls her eyes at me

”I said visitation hours are over for today. You’d have to sign in at the front desk anyway. Tomorrow,“ she says slowly as if I’m dense. That makes my hackles rise.

I’m on my way to my appointment with Dr. Leahi, that B made for me. I slightly turn around to look at the tall brunette woman. Standing in the elevator next to me.

”Is that how you treat all your patients? Also I’m here for an appointment. Not that it’s any of your business,“ I say and defensively cross my arms over my chest.

”Alright. Name of doctor?“ she looks expectantly at me in her white coat. Though I can’t make out her name tag. Something that starts with an A..

”I don’t owe you any kind of explanation,“ I retort.

She shakes her head at me.

”Some people,“ she replies.

I shake my head wondering what her problem is.

Thankfully the elevator doors open, preventing me from having to make any further conversation with Queen Bitch over here.

I wave and get off the elevator. She keeps looking at me until the doors close and all I see is the cold, silver metal doors.

I breathe a sigh of relief.

God who was that? I walk to the office that was pointed out to me by a nice nurse. When I reach the office I knock softly at Dr. Leahi’s door.

”Come in,“ a voice comes from the other side of the room.

I open the door and step inside. I instantly feeling right at home. The soft smell of lavender and violets. A nice leather couch, some colorful throw pillows. A small bookcase is leaned up against the wall. Filled with medical books. Some classic ones. Even what looks like a stress ball.

She left the walls white as they are, but hung up pictures of her and what seems her family. Drawings from kids that say “You’re the best Dr. Leahi“

”Hi. Am I interrupting?“ I ask and Dr. Leahi gets up to greet me with a big hug. She wears pink crocks adorned with rainbows and marshmallows. I smile at her as I return the hug.

When we both step back she looks at me.

”Oh my god. You must be Luna. Lahela didn’t tell me how gorgeous you are in person. He just can’t stop gushing about you. I’m Meilani. Come on in,“ she’s says while we enter the room and I smile at her as we sit down.

Meilani smiles and waves me over while she finishes what looks to like a donut with chocolate glaze.

Mhh. That sounds good about right now, but I don’t trust m stomach yet.

I take a seat in front of her desk where she put a small bonsai tree and a Newton’s pendulum.

”I don’t suppose you have another one of those?“ I point to her half-eaten donut.

Meilani shakes her head sadly.

”Sorry pumpkin muffin that was the last one,“ she smiles and it’s like the sun is up. Her warm brown eyes radiate joy and warmth. She seems really nice.

I shrug and smile.

When I don’t say anything else, she eyes me suspiciously.

”Is everything okay?“ she asks sounding concerned.

I nod and smile slightly

”Just anxious. I don’t really like hospitals or doctors. No offense. Also I met this doctor on the elevator. She was so rude. I don’t know what her problem is,“ I say gnawing on my lip

Meilani finishes chewing.

”None taken. Also you’ve got to be more specific who you’re referring to,“ she asks and throws her napkin into the bin.

I try to recollect what the doctor looked like.

”Tall, brunette kinda rude,“ I say.

”Ahhh. That’s probably Aubrey O‘Neil,“ she nods at that.

”She has a pretty name for someone so bitchy,“ I comment

Meilani laughs.

”She’s actually pretty nice. Somewhere deep, deep down. But enough about Aubrey. Bryce didn’t exaggerate about you. Oh my gosh. You’re so cute together. I was so excited when he called me and asked if I could squeeze you in for an appointment,“ she says grinning.

I grin back. I can’t help myself. It’s so contagious.

She gets serious.

”So what brings you by today? Bryce wasn’t very specific. He only said you felt nauseous and had to throw up. Anything else besides that?“

I lick my lips

”I ordered a salad and it tasted funny. That’s when nausea hit me and I was basically praying to the porcelain gods,“ I say

She nods and jots down some notes.

”Okay. Any other symptoms? Headache? Dizziness?“

I think back.

”I have been feeling weird the last couple of weeks. No headaches that I can remember. But I did feel dizzy. I thought maybe I haven’t eaten or drank enough. Maybe dehydrated,“ I say.

She nods and makes another note.

”Last time you had your period?“

“Um…why?“ I ask feeling confused about where this is going

She shakes her shoulders

“Just routine question,“ pen poised and ready to write down a note.

I count back and realize that I’m late. I feel frozen in place.

She must’ve seen my look.

”I’m late,“ I say

”How late are we talking?“ she asks

I swallow hard.

”Four weeks?“ I say making it sound like a question.

Her eyebrows shoot up.

”Is your cycle regular or irregular?“ she asks

”Regular,“ I say

She puts her pen down and looks at me.

”When was the last time you had sex?“ she asks

My face heats I feel embarrassed talking about my sex life with strangers even a doctor.

”Um…this morning,“ I say not looking at her.

She nods and gets up.

”I think we need a bigger room to do a check-up,“ she opens the door and leads me into an examination room.

I gulp and lie down.

”Please lie down and if you’d pull up your shirt a little,“ she instructs and I do as I’m told.

She sits down on a small rotatable chair and a machine whirrs to life. I close y eyes briefly and re-open them when I hear Meilani’s voice again.

She takes some gel and puts in on my stomach. It’s cold and I almost jerk back.

”Sorry about that,“ she chuckles and I smile weakly.

She moves the probe around and I’m getting pretty anxious and impatient.

Suddenly she smiles and I try to see what she sees on the monitor. With black and white images.

”Congrats Luna,“ she says and looks as if she’s about to burst from happiness.

I’m confused.

”Congrats to what?“ I ask

She turns the monitor around so I can see the image too.

”You’re pregnant,“ she says and I can clearly see it.

There’s a tiny little not-yet human on the screen.

Damn that sounded weird.

Meilani gasps and my heart almost stops in my chest.

”Looks as if there are two heartbeats,“ she smiles and moves the probe again.

I gulp and start to sweat. Looks like deodorant commercials were lying. They didn’t prepare me for breaking out in a sweat, while learning I’m carrying twins.

I try to gather my thoughts, because right now they’re jumbled.

”Wow. I…don’t know what to say. B and I have been talking about trying for kids, but decided we’ll just let it happen. I think this is still earlier than we thought,“ I say amazed, excited and scared at the same time. Twins though?

Meilani smiles warmly at me and hands me a print-out of the ultrasound.

I take it, not able to form coherent words yet.

She gently rubs my shoulder. Her big brown eyes radiant.

”I don’t suppose you have some wipes to get this gel off?“ I ask when sitting up slowly.

She laughs and hands me some.

”Here you go lemon cake,“ she says

I grin

”I love your food names,“ I say adjust my shirt and get up. A little wobbly but I’m standing.

”I really want to tell B. Do you think he’s still in surgery?“ I ask Meilani.

She thinks for a second

”I think so, it could be a while. They’re trying to save a man’s life. Who was just in a car accident,“ she says and I feel terrible for the man.

“Don’t worry cherry pie he’s in the best hands,“ she says and I nod relieved that he has the best team working to save his life.

I look up at Meilani and see she has a wicked glint in her eyes.

”You can sit in on the surgery and watch. Technically if you’re not staff it’s not allowed, but I’m gonna sneak you in. By the way he’d go nuts if he knew that you’re watching him while he’s performing surgery,“ she’s says while we go towards the room and I smile at her as we walk towards the room.

The picture of the ultra sound safely tucked inside my jeans. It feels as if it’s burning a hole in my jeans pocket. I’m giddy and excited to tell B.

We enter the room and sit down.

The scent of disinfectant is really strong here. She sees my face and starts searching her pockets for something.

She smiles at me

”Here. You can use this,“ she offers me a lip-balm?

”Umm….I don’t know what this is?“ I say

Meilani lets out a sweet laugh.

”It’s a lavender infused smelling salt,“ she says and continues

”I sometimes use it when I’m on my period. Certain scents just overwhelm me. I thought you could use it,“ she smiles sweetly.

I laugh

”You happen to just carry that with you?“ I say on a laugh.

She shrugs

”Between you and me? I actually forgot about it. I was looking for my chocolate bar. Guess I already ate it. I was really looking forward to that sugar rush,“ she says her voice sounding sad.

I search around in my bag.

”I know it’s not the chocolate bar you wanted but I’ve got some homemade fruit roll ups,“ I hold them out for her.

”Mhh. This is so good,“ she says between bites. She chews and makes satisfied sounds.

”You want some?“ she asks me but I shake my head

”No I’m good. Thanks. I think my stomach is still a little sensitive,“ I reply and she nods at that.

”Completely normal. By the way you’re an art teacher right?“

I nod.

”Yes I teach art at the University of Hawaii,“ I say proudly.

Meilani smiles

”The kids were so excited when you got here and painted with them last time. You have no idea how happy you’ve made them,“ she says her tone gentle.

I smile

”It’s the least I could do. I thought they could use some cheering up. Getting them out into the sun. Sitting on the grass and just letting them be creative with art? There’s nothing better than that,“ I say.

”It’s all they talked about for weeks. I think you should do this more often. Everyone can benefit from that,“ she says with a wink.

”I’d like that. Sounds pretty nice. It should be a class for everyone. So no one feels excluded,“ I say

We didn’t hear the door open.

I turn around as if I felt Bryce being close by and my heart beat is so loud I’m scared everyone will hear it.

I only see some blonde strands peeking out underneath his surgical cap.

He takes his mask and cap off and smiles.

”What are you guys doing here? You could get into trouble,“ he smirks and sits down next to me.

He gives me a kiss on my forehead.

Meilani rolls her eyes at Bryce‘s comment and shrugs

”What are they gonna do? Fire me? You know ever since you got engaged you’ve been following the rules a lot,“ she replies

I snicker beside her

”He’s not following the rules at home. Because I make the rules at home,“ I grin

Meilani smiles and tucks her legs under her. Getting ready as if she’s about to watch a show on Netflix.

”Uhhh. I sense a juicy story coming up,“ she eats the rest of the fruit roll ups.

Bryce sighs next to me

”One sister at home is enough,“ he says

Meilani pretends to be shocked

”You’re hurting my feelings. Please tell me you didn’t mean that,“ her eyes turn sad

Bryce takes one look at her and dials back

”I didn’t mean it like that. I like you a lot. As a sister that I’m not related to,“ he says rubbing a hand over his face and grins.

Meilani smiles in turn

”I knew there was a sweet side under that hot body of yours,“ she says and I get a very unpleasant feeling.

I love B and I trust him but we all know how good-looking he is, some people won’t get deterred by the fact that he’s taken.

I look at Meilani feeling unsure, because she’s been nothing but nice to me, but still I don’t like to share.

”Umm look…“ I start but get interrupted by her laugh. I get a confused crease between my brow.

”Oh don’t worry sweet cakes. I’m into women,“ she reassures me.

Now I’m embarrassed but I’m happy for her too.

”I’m glad and also really proud of you,“ I say and squeeze her shoulder gently.

She beams at me

”Thank you,“ she says

That makes me think of something

”By the way I think you and my cousin would get along so well,“ I say. I could definitely see her and Soraya get along super well.

Meilani leans over conspiratorially

”Do you have pics by any chance?“

I pull out my phone to find some pics of Soraya

”Girl I’ve got more than pictures,“ I say

I hand her my phone with the latest pic of me Evie and Soraya at the last family dinner.

Meilani takes my phone into her hands to look at a recent pic of Soraya it was at a family dinner. She looked so pretty in her white summer dress.

”Well hello gorgeous. Do you think you could maybe slip her my number? You know just casually?“ Meilani asks me unsure if I’ll give her Soraya‘s number.

I smile at her

”I can do you one better. You can just come to our next family dinner. She’s gonna be there. I can introduce you two,“ I say

Meilani sighs

”Oh that would be nice. I’d like that. Should I bring anything?“

We get interrupted by Bryce‘s voice

”Um hello? I’m right here,“ he says pouting a little.

We both look up and in fact he’s still sitting right next to me and we completely forgot about him.

I laugh because Meilani and I were so engrossed in our conversation that we might have forgot about B. Oops.

I kiss his cheek

”Sorry muffin cake I forgot you were there,“ I say and wipe away some of my cherry red lipstick from his cheek.

He gasps

”You said you’d stop calling me those weird nicknames while we’re out in public,“ he says eying Meilani who is trying very hard to not burst out laughing at our exchange

”Well I can’t be held accountable for the things I say when I’m having an orgasm,“ I reply not caring one ounce who’s hearing me say that.

Bryce clasps a hand over my mouth, his brown eyes widening.

”Please stop spilling all of our secrets,“ he says

I squint my eyes at him and he smiles.

Meilani gets up

”As fun as this was. That’s my cue to leave,“ she says and waves goodbye at us.

We both wave and B turns his eyes on me.

”So? What did she have to say?“ he asks sounding worried.

I scoot closer and look at him.

”She did find something, but I’d like to discuss it at home,“ I say

He nods

”Alright. I’m done for today anyway. Let me get changed and then we can go,“ he says while taking a look at his apple watch.

I lean into him and just want to be close.

He kisses my temple and wants to get up but I stop him.

Not wanting to let go of him just yet.

”Let’s stay for a couple more minutes,“ I ask him and he doesn’t question me.

So we sit a bit more and just let the silence center us.

———————————————————

We stopped by the supermarket to buy some ingredients to make some dinner. I had to fight another nausea attack, and when I saw most of the food. I just couldn’t. The only that thing that doesn’t seem to disgust me is fruit. Who knew huh? Bryce has been trying for years to make me eat more healthy, looks like his dream came true.

Later we when we’re at home and it’s just us, Bryce looks at me.

We’re sitting in our dining room. He got himself some sushi and I made myself a fresh bowl of fruit.

”So want to tell me what Meilani said?“ he asks between bites and gets another takes another piece.

I nod and get up from my seat to get the ultrasound picture out of my jeans pocket where I left it.

He smiles at me

”You have to leave the dining room for that?“ he jokes

When I come back my hands are behind my back and I’m holding the picture.

”Seriously what’s going on?“ he takes another bite eying me.

I sit down again and hand him the picture. Feeling nervous all of a sudden.

He puts down the chopsticks to take a closer look.

He stops chewing when he finally realized what’s he’s looking at. That’s when he looks up at me.

There’s a look in his eyes I’ve never seen before. Pure joy and awe.

”Lunes….“ he comes around to give me a hug and kisses my temple and lingering there.

He takes my face in his hands and just keeps looking at me.

I smile at him.

”I know it’s earlier then we anticipated…but I don’t know I’m still happy about it…after I had some time to really digest it,“ I say and he pulls me tight.

”Me too Lunes. You have no idea. We’re going to have the best looking kids ever,“ he says and I laugh.

”I guess this is our little miracle. Or miracles,“ I say echoing my mums words from a couple of weeks ago.

”Huh?“ he says

I grin and point at the print-out.

“Look a little closer babe,“ I say and when he does he grins even wider. If that is even possible.

“Want to call your folks?“ he asks

”I do…but later. First I want us to celebrate,“ I say and B just picks me up and carries me to our outdoor shower. I laugh all the while.

As we’re standing under the spray of water.

”Is there anything visible?“ I ask Bryce and he looks down at me and he’s still smiling.

I adore him I really do. He’s going to make the best dad ever.

When he kneels down I laugh nervously at him.

”It’s not what you think,“ he winks at me. He then goes on to give my stomach a kiss

”Hi there. Just wanted wanted to let you know it’s your awesome dad and super hot mum. We can’t wait to meet you,“ he says and I literally turn into a blubbering mess at his gesture.

”I love you so much,“ I say and he stands to envelop me into his arms while whispering into my ear words that make me smile.

We went to bed and I turned on my night light projector, that’s putting stars on the walls. I’m scared of the dark and this helps me. B never complained so I leave it on when I sleep.

Later when we’re lying in bed, I keep touching my stomach as if there’s already a baby bump. But it’s probably too early to see anything.

I take out my phone to shoot my parents a quick message.

I put my phone away and lie back again.

Bryce turns in his sleep and rests his hand over mine that’s still on my stomach. I smile to myself and drift off.

———————————————————

One week later

Today is extra special for us, since today is the cake testing for our wedding. The one Evie arranged for us.

with this super cute bakery called Hibiscus Dreams.

I’m standing in the parking lot and open my car to drive home from work when my phone rings.

I see Hayley’s name and answer it smiling.

”Hi there sunshine. How’s it going?“ she asks and I can hear the ocean in the background.

They’re still on their honeymoon in the Maldives. Ugh I’ve always wanted to see the Maldives.

“Evie actually called me to ask if we’re going to come to the cake testing. Ethan and I would both like to be a part of it. If you want us there,“ she says hesitantly.

I smile as I hold the phone closer to my ear.

“Of course I’d like you at my cake testing, but I’m feeling awful that you and Ethan are cutting your honeymoon short just to eat some cake. I don’t want you guys to do that,“ I say putting my backpack into the trunk and get inside my Jeep.

I hear some mumbling in the background and assume that she and Ethan are whispering about something.

Suddenly I hear her voice again.

“I put you on speaker. Ethan say hello,“ she says to him.

I hear his deep voice

“Hello,“ he says and disappears again.

I laugh at his reply.

“It’s funny how he’s so grumpy because that reply was so cute and so Ethan,“ I say and Hayley lets out a loud laugh.

Making me grin in return.

“You’re probably the only one, next to me, who he doesn’t yell at when you say that to him. But to get back to the point. I felt as if…I don’t know, maybe you still resent me for how Bryce and I ended things…“ she lets the sentence hang in the air.

I sigh as I get into my car.

“Listen I’m going to be honest with you. I hate the fact the he got hurt, not gonna lie, because he’s the most important person in my life. The fact that he got hurt is the worst thing. On the other hand I’m glad that it happened, because it led him to me. We found each other when we both needed it. Not knowing how important we would become to each other. So I have to thank you for breaking things up, because if you hadn’t we would’ve never met,“ I say and hear her exhale loudly.

“I can’t tell you how much your words mean to me. I didn’t want there to be any resentment or negative feelings between us, so we’ll gladly attend the cake testing if you guys will have us,“ she asks

I smile to myself

“Of course I’d be happy if you could make it. It’ll just be a small gathering,“ I say

She laughs again.

“I’m glad, because I don’t think Ethan would want to go to a big event for a cake testing,“ she says.

”I can’t wait to see my bestest angel cake, right bestie?“ I ask and I can hear Hayley roaring with laughter.

”He chocked on his coffee,“ she says

”Pics or it didn’t happen,“ I say and mirror Bryce’s words that he likes to use.

”You can bet your sweet little ass I did. I’m going to send you some,“ she says

”Please do,“ I reply

We talked some more about family and work.

As I drove home I was glad that we ended the call on a good, and let’s be honest really funny note.

———————————————————

I get home and see Bryce is already there.

Keiki is chilling at the counter eating fruit loops. She must‘ve been done with classes for today.

She looks up when I enter setting down her bowl and looks at me. She seems pissed.

”Is there something you want to tell me?“ she ask me and I think about the skittle incident.

I sigh

”Yes. Remember last time when you asked me if there were any purple skittles left? I lied. There were tons of them. But I didn’t want to share them. I feel super guilty about it,“ I admit.

”Wait what? Never mind. That’s not what I meant. Care to explain?“ she points at the ultra sound picture on the counter.

When I see it I smile.

”Oh yeah…that,“ I say

She looks at me

”Why didn’t you tell me?“ she asks sounding hurt

I walk towards her and give her a hug

”We didn’t tell you sugar cake, because we only found out last night. So next to the doctor and my parents, you’re the first one to know,“ I give her a kiss on her head that smells like bubble gum. Hmm must be her newest scent for her shampoo. A bit much if you ask me. I grin.

She smiles at me and let’s out squeal.

”Oh my god. I’m so excited. I’ll be an aunt,“ she jumps up and down.

That’s how Bryce finds us when he walks down the stairs in dark blue jeans with holes in both knees and a black Hawaiian shirt with pink and blue flamingos on it.

He sees us sitting together and grins.

”Nice fruit loop on your face. Newest fashion trend?“ he teases

Keiki plucks it from her face and throws it at him. He darts out of the way laughing.

Keiki wears a white maxi dress with her hair up in a bun.

I smile at her.

”I’ll go change real quick. Be right back,“ I say and head upstairs

I take a quick shower and walk out in my towel to take a look into my closet to see what I should wear.

I decide on the olive green wrap dress I bought on a whim last month. I just put on underwear and I’m about to don my dress when I hear the door to the bedroom open. I look up and see it’s B.

I smile when he enters.

”Need any help?“ he offers and sits down on our bed.

I shake my head

”I’m almost done. Is something wrong?“ I ask him when he keeps staring at me.

”What?“ I laugh.

He pulls me to him and I lean my hands down on his shoulders

”You look beautiful,“ he says

I smile at him

”B what’s going on? Not that I’m not happy about the compliment. Keep them coming,“ I smile and brush my hands through his soft and still a bit wet hair. The blond has almost grown out.

”Do you want us to tell your family tonight? Or do you want to wait?“ he asks

”Do you want us to tell them?“ I ask him because this is not just my decision. It’s ours.

He thinks about it.

”I really want to, but I didn’t want to put that kind of pressure on you,“ he seems thoughtful for a second.

I kiss him

”You’re not pressuring me. If you’re okay with it then we’ll tell them tonight,“ I kiss him again because I want to.

He smiles

”Alright. Then we’ll tell them tonight,“ he gets up.

I grab my shoes and my clutch and we’re out the door.

All three of us get into the car and drive to the bakery where the cake testing will be.

———————————————————

We arrive at the cake testing that Evie arranged with a small, locally owned bakery called Hibiscus Dreams. They create cakes for any occasion. Weddings, Anniversaries, Graduations. Literally any cake.

As soon as we get there we get greeted by Mr. and Mrs. Whitehall, the owners. They lead us to where everyone is already seated.

The inside of the bakery is painted a soft yellow. Orange and red hibiscus flowers are put on every table. Soft wooden beams are glinting above. The craftsmanship is astonishing. My shoes are giving a soft thud while I walk over the floor.

There is a breathtaking view of the ocean. Everyone is already here. My parents who are stunning as always, mom who wears a green blouse and a leather skirt, while my dad chose a white button down shirt and a pair of jenas. My uncle Joseph in a white shirt and jeans shorts and aunt Joe is wearing a wonderful black dress and some nice pearl earrings. She laughs at something uncle Jospeh said.

My grangran in a soft pink blouse and a long jeans skirt and gramps in his go to black linen shirt and jeans. Both smile at us.

Maxi is waving while drinking some white wine, looking pretty in her dark red off-the-shoulder dress. Her mum couldn’t make it, because she had to teach a late ballet class.

Next to Maxi I can see Adam in a jeans button down shirt and black jeans. He seems to be looking intently at Maxi. Interesting.

She must’ve brought him as her date. I’ll have to ask her later.

My cousins Evie in teal covered pants and a floral blouse with puffy sleeves, Soraya is wearing a periwinkle suit and it suits her so well, and Sky opted for a dark olive green shirt and white jeans. They are all sitting next to each other and are in what seems to be a heated discussion caviar? Must be about a client.

Ethan in a beige linen shirt and dare I say it dark blue jeans? He and Hayley are sitting together, she’s wearing a green maxi dress with strappy green sandals. Hayley waves at us. She even takes Ethan’s arm and waves at us.

He just gives her a look and takes his arm back.

I laugh and everybody turns when Bryce, Keiki and I enter.

I wave at everyone and we get kisses and hugs and greetings all around.

Evie is the first to say something.

”Hi everyone. We’re super excited to try some flavors for your guys wedding cake. We chose three cakes in total to choose from. Though I think Luna and Bryce are more excited than all of us,“ she says

That earns a few laughs.

”So what exactly are the flavors?“ I ask

”We didn’t know exactly what you guys were thinking flavor wise, but all three of us thought we couldn’t go wrong with something light, sprinkled with fruits,“ Soraya says

Mrs. Whitehall comes out and wheels out the first cake flavor.

”The first one is a lemon curd poppy seed cake,“ Mrs. Whitehalls soft voice carries even to the last person at the table.

”It’s a white cake. Very moist. It has a delicious lemon curd filling, and soft lemon curd icing,“ she says and leaves us to our cake.

When I take the first bite I close my eyes in bliss and sigh.

”Seems like someone is enjoying their cake,“ I hear my moms voice and I open my eyes again

”It’s really good,“ I say and we all agree. It’s so moist it’s melting on my tongue. The lemon has some zing and add the poppy seeds and you’ve got quite the combination.

The next cake we get presented is just as good.

”It’s sponge cake, layered with coconut and a passionfruit ganache with pieces of passion fruit mixed in,“ Mrs. Whitehall says.

”Ethan are you excited about this one?“ Bryce asks him.

Ethan looks up from his cake and gives Bryce an annoyed look.

”Why?“ he asks in turn his blue eyes focusing on Bryce

Bryce chuckles

”To tell you the truth angel cake…“ he starts but I kick him under the table.

He hisses

”Enjoy your cake,“ he says

Ethan smiles and just shakes his head. But can’t help to mouth to me ”Thank you“ I nod at him.

We all eat in silence

”The cakes are truly delicious. I don’t know if I can eat another bite I’m so full,“ I say and the others murmur their sentiments too.

We all sit and eat in silence when the third cake gets presented.

”This cake is our newest creation and you’ll be the first ones to try it. It’s elderflower cake. With hints of pear, and a nice vanilla bean buttercream. Enjoy,“ with those words she leaves us with the last cake.

I’m stunned and then I look at my dad. He seems in love with the cake combination in front of him.

”You still with us dad?“ I ask and see he’s in flower land. It’s so nice to see him smile like that.

He just mumbles something. Totally enchanted by the cake.

We all smile to ourselves. My dad is usually a very quiet guy.

Sometimes though you can surprise him and he’s the happiest guy in the world.

When everyone has eaten their piece, we all sit together and all of a sudden I’m really nervous.

I look at Bryce and he catches me staring at him.

He leans closer and a wave of sandalwood hits me. It’s the perfume I gifted him a couple of months ago. When I smelled it, it reminded me of him.

I clutch his hand and whisper

”Should we tell them now?“ I ask and a small ocean breeze wafts to us. Bringing salty air and the scent of hibiscus with it.

Bryce brushes my arms lightly

”Go ahead,“ he murmurs placing a soft kiss on my shoulder

Evie leans into us.

”What are you guys whispering about? Because everyone is staring. Especially tall, dark and handsome,“ she says

I laugh at her

”You do realize he introduced himself as Ethan right? On his wedding that you were invited to?“ I remind her grinning

”Pft. So? He’s good-looking, there’s no shame in that. Real Talk? Wedded bliss looks good on both of them,“ she puts her chin on her hand and sighs

”I agree,“ I say

I clear my throat and take a fork to clink onto a glass

Everybody looks at me and I get nervous but breathe out slowly. This is my family. There’s nothing to be nervous about.

”There’s something Bryce and I wanted to tell you,“ I start

Sky fist bumps with Keiki.

”I told you. I knew you guys were keeping something from us,“ Sky says

Soraya rolls her eyes

”Sush it Sky,“ she gives him a look and gestures with her hand at me.

Sky shrugs

”What? I’m just saying. I can’t even say that I knew there was something going on? Way harsh dude,“ he says

Soraya gives him a pointed look

”I’m not your dude,“ she says

Aunt Joe clears her throat and they both shut up.

I smile fondly at them because I love their banter so much.

”As Sky pointed out B and I do have an announcement. We wanted to wait, but since everyone is here for the cake testing we decided to announce it now,“ I say

”You eloped?“ Keiki winks at us.

Keiki knows fully well what it is we want to say but decides to tease us a little. I smile at her.

Bryce just sighs and leans his back against the chair

”Really?“ he asks his sister

”What? It could be,“ she grins

I laugh

”Guys can I please just say it. I already feel uncomfortable because everyone is looking at me,“ I say

Ethan is the one who speaks up his voice has an oddly calming effect on me.

”Why don’t you say what you want to say?“

”Thanks bestie. Also I’m sad you aren’t wearing our matching shirts. Maybe another time,“ I say and Ethan just sits back but a small smile plays at the corner of his lips.

Bryce breaks out into laughter joined by Sky and Hayley.

When the laughter died down a little I clear my throat again.

I clasp Bryce’s hand underneath the table and he squeezes back.

”So as for the announcement. Looks like B and I are expecting twins,“ I say

That’s when everybody squeals except Maxi, Keiki and my parents

Maxi winks at me and I blow her a kiss.

Bryce leans on me

”We should’ve just written a note and then left. Because I think my ears might be damaged after this squealing fest,“ he says

I smack his shoulder

”Let them be happy. As we are,“ I lean into him.

———————————————————

Later when we’re at home and lying next to each other in bed. I‘m tossing and turning in bed. Because I can’t sleep.

B wakes up and asks sleepily

”Can’t sleep?“ he draws circles over my stomach and I turn around so we’re face to face.

I feel the soft sheets around me and place my hands on his chest. I’ve been feeling a lot more touchy feely these past few weeks.

He draws me in closer to him.

”What’s bugging you?“

”Well for one I’m really hungry and two I’ve thought about all the cake combinations that we’ve tried tonight…“ I say

”They aren’t giving you any trouble are they?“

I shake my head

”No. My stomach is good for now. What if I can’t eat any of the combinations we’ve tried. What if I don’t like them a couple of months later? I don’t want everyone to go to so much trouble for us to only disappoint them…“ I‘m close to tears.

”I know you’re feeling a lot of things right now. That’s why I took the liberty of ordering another cake. One that won’t make you feel sick. Just in case,“ he says

This man that I fell in love with and still am. Who I love more everyday. He thinks of everything. All the small details others might forget. But he never makes anyone feel less then.

”Have I told you that I love you?“

I murmur against his lips.

”Not today. But I always love to hear it,“ he says before capturing my lips in a hot kiss.

When we break apart I completely forgot that I was hungry.

We both fall asleep ready for another beautiful day. Full of hope and wonder.

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