A Hundred Ways to Love by Ellie Wade

Author:Ellie Wade [Wade, Ellie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: New Adult Romance
Publisher: Ellie Wade, LLC
Published: 2019-06-17T18:30:00+00:00

thirteen

Leni

A gust of wind pulls the fabric of my tad-too-short sundress off of my ass, and I can only hope that the goods remain covered. I told Mimi that it wasn’t long enough, but she assured me that it was the perfect length. If I had known my hands would be completely occupied and unable to access the dress-over-my-ass situation, I’d have insisted that Mimi make it longer.

I feel completely out of place as I make my way across the lawn toward the backyard of Emily and Westley’s home. First, I’m wearing pink and not just any pink; it’s obnoxious bubblegum pink. Mimi says it’s the perfect shade, but it reminds me of the gum that holds flavor for about two seconds but lets me blow huge bubbles.

The directions on the invitation were clear—wear pink if you think it’s going to be a girl, or wear blue if your guess is a boy. And bring a dish to pass. That is why, in addition to my gift, I’m holding a heavy ceramic dish of baked beans, which, along with the dress, is also courtesy of Mimi.

I’ve never been to a gender-reveal party or any of the gatherings leading up to a baby—engagement parties, bridal showers, none of it. My peers in Elkwood seem to be about ten years ahead of the crowd I hung with in the city.

“Do you need help?” a familiar voice asks from behind me, amusement evident in his tone.

“Yes, please,” I tell Liam, turning to give him the baked beans. “Where’s your gift and dish to pass?” I shake out my cramped hand in front of me, admiring Liam.

He’s in jeans and a blue flannel-printed button-up shirt.

“Dropped off the keg this morning, and the gift card is in my back pocket.”

“Oh, that’s smart. I should’ve just done a gift card.”

“Well, I’m sure your gift is more thoughtful. What’d you get them anyway?” He eyes the large gift I’m holding.

I shrug. “Honestly, I have no idea. Mimi bought and wrapped it.”

Liam throws his head back and laughs. “Oh, Leni.”

“Hey, I’m trying. I’m wearing a new pink sundress. I mean, come on. You do realize that ninety percent of my limited wardrobe is black.”

“Good job. You look great. The cowboy boots are a nice touch.”

I grin. “Thanks. I thought so.” I eye the smaller box on top of the large one in my arms. “And I lied. I do know what the small box is. I painted them a little canvas for the nursery,” I admit.

“Ah, there she is.” Liam chuckles.

“Who?” I question.

“The warmhearted version of yourself that you like to hide.” He grins.

“Whatever. I’m not always cold.”

“Not always. So, what did you paint them?”

“It’s a cute little baby elephant. I even brought a brush and tube of blue and pink paint, so I can give it the appropriate-colored bow once we find out what the gender is.”

“Look at you … being all thoughtful.”

I shrug. “I told you, I have my moments.”

“I know you do,” Liam says as we round toward the back of the house.

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