31

Enchanted - Taylor Swift, More Hearts Than Mine - Ingrid Andres s

I can feel unshed tears brimming at the corners of my eyes. God, I've been so emotional lately. And it's definitely not my period anymore. Just his presence here, it's overwhelming. In the best kind of way. The moment is interrupted when Millie comes barreling in between us, her excitement palpable.

"Meli, Meli. Who's dat?" Her innocent curiosity pulls me out of the emotional whirlwind.

"This is Bradley, Millie. He's a—" My words trail off.

"Hi, Millie. I'm a very good friend of your Auntie Meli," Bradley finishes for me, crouching down to Millie's level. She hides her face behind my leg, a shy reaction to his playful introduction.

Millie notices the flowers in my hand, and her face lights up. "Flowas, flowas!"

I bend down to hand her the bunch, almost the size of her. "Bradley bought them. Aren't they beautiful?"

Millie nods quickly. "Yes, yes!" I smile, my heart warming at the sight.

Bradley speaks up, "Millie, your Auntie Meli tells me all the time that you're a princess." His grin is infectious, and Millie's eyes light up with delight. "And do you know what princesses need?" Millie shakes her head.

"Flowers," he declares, and Millie's mouth goes wide before she hides her face behind the flowers.

Bradley winks at me, and butterflies erupt in my core. Who would have thought grumpy, brooding Bradley Mitchell would be such a natural around kids? It's a side of him I've never seen before, and it's enchanting .

Grumpy Bradley is sexy.

Playful, caring Bradley is downright captivating.

My ovaries are practically screaming for him.

Millie runs off, clutching the flowers, and I coax Bradley inside. Nerves wrack through my whole body; it feels like he's my boyfriend and I'm bringing him home for the first time. Hah. Boyfriend. What a concept. Yeah right.

Kat spots him first from inside the kitchen and rushes up to us, wiping her hands.

"Bradley! Welcome," she says, giving him a soft hug. He seems momentarily taken aback before putting one hand around her back and giving her a pat.

Mum is next. "Bradley, darling. It's so lovely to see you."

"Mrs. Brown. Sorry I'm late."

"Nuh uh, what have I said? Sophie, please," she urges him, before pulling him in for a hug, and he smiles. I can't help but smile, watching their embrace.

I hand the bottle of rosé to my mom. "Ma, this is from Bradley," I say.

She eyes Millie, standing beside me, still clutching the flowers like a vice. "And the flowers, I see. You didn't have to bring anything, dear. We're just glad you came, especially looking all fine in your uniform, too."

"Yeah." He huffs a laugh before running his hand down the back of his neck, causing his muscles to bulge through his shirt. "I got called in at the last minute and didn't have time to change."

"No worries at all, love. The boys are outside at the BBQ. Amelia, show him outside."

As we walk off, I catch Kat's gaze, her mouth wide open, fanning her face dramatically. I roll my eyes, trying my best to hide my now burning cheeks.

As we approach where Dad and John are chatting at the barbecue, a nervous bubble forms in my chest. I swallow hard, steadying myself before introducing Bradley.

"Dad, John, this is Bradley Mitchell," I say, trying to keep my voice steady.

John is the first to react, offering a friendly handshake. "Good to meet ya, mate."

Bradley takes his hand, giving a firm shake. "Good to meet you, too, John."

Dad's gaze lingers on Bradley for a moment, assessing him. I hold my breath, watching closely for their reactions.

"James," Dad finally says, extending his hand. Bradley shakes it firmly, maintaining eye contact. "Bradley Mitchell, ay? Dom's boy?"

"Yes, sir. Nice to meet you."

Dad nods in acknowledgment, a subtle smile forming on his lips. "Nice to meet you, too, son."

I exhale slowly, relieved that the initial meeting seems to be going well. Seeing Dad's approval lifts a weight off my shoulders. Bradley, true to form, remains calm and composed, not showing any signs of intimidation. The way he handles himself, standing tall and confident, makes me admire him even more. This is the first time I've brought someone home like this, and it feels significant. I'm amazed by how seamlessly Bradley fits into my world. I can't help but feel a surge of pride and affection.

John glances at Bradley's uniform. "Looking sharp there, Bradley."

Bradley smirks, a glint of amusement in his eyes. "Guess I took formal dress a little too seriously," he jokes, making John chuckle. Dad just watches, his expression unreadable.

"Well, you wear it well. It suits you," John says, clapping Bradley on the shoulder.

Bradley's smirk softens into a genuine smile. "Appreciate that."

Dad nods, his expression approving. "Takes dedication to be in your line of work. We respect that ‘round here."

"Thank you, sir," Bradley replies with a nod.

Dad turns to me. "Amelia, why don't you head inside and help your mumma with the food?"

I falter for a moment. Welp, that's my cue to get outta here so the men can chat. I glance at Bradley, looking for any sign that he's okay with this. He meets my gaze and smirks, giving me a subtle nod to go ahead.

"Okey dokey," I say with an awkward wave before turning to head back inside. The kitchen is bustling with activity. Mum is at the counter, slicing vegetables, while Kat is mixing a salad. I join them, trying to steady my racing heart.

Mum looks up, nodding to the bouquet, now in a vase. "He got your favourite flowers," she comments, a knowing smile on her face. "Seems like someone takes a lot of notice. Lilies and rosé, hm."

I blush. "He's just being thoughtful."

Kat sidles up to me, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Thoughtful, sure. He's quite the catch, isn't he?"

I nudge her playfully, trying to hide my embarrassment. "Stop it."

She laughs, giving me a wink. "Just saying, Amelia. He's a keeper."

Mum smiles warmly, her hands pausing in their work. "He seems like a good man, Amelia, and a good friend, at that," she adds, her tone suggesting she might have other thoughts about our friendship .

I help Kat finish preparing the salad, and as I do, I steal a glance out the window, watching Dad and Bradley chatting by the barbecue. A sense of warmth settles over me, grateful for Bradley's presence and the support of my family.

As the evening progresses, my mum calls out that dinner is ready. We all sit around the dinner table, Dad occupying the head, with Mum and Kat on either side. John sits beside Kat, keeping Millie entertained in her high chair. I find my place next to Mum, with Bradley seated to my left. Mum serves up the food, and we all dig in, the atmosphere relaxed and warm.

"So, Bradley," Dad starts, his tone casual yet probing, "how did you and Amelia become friends?" I freeze in my seat as Dad's question lands squarely on Bradley and me. His casual probing has the unsettling effect of making my heart race. Thankfully, Bradley steps in smoothly, his answer keeping things vague and safe.

"We've known each other for a while now," he says, his voice calm and measured. "Amelia is friends with my sister, Olivia."

Dad nods, his stoic expression unchanged. "Olivia, that's right. She couldn't make it tonight?"

My pulse quickens. Oh, God. "No, she's babysitting tonight, apparently," I manage to say, my voice betraying a hint of nervousness.

"Oh, is she?" Bradley's voice is quiet, with a touch of surprise.

"Apparently. That's what your mum told mine," I reply, hoping to keep the conversation from veering into uncomfortable territory.

Mum seizes the opportunity to inquire, "How's your family, dear? I heard your brother got married earlier this year. That's very exciting." I praise the Lord for the subject change.

"Yes, in February. They're now expecting their first child."

"Oh, how lovely!" Mum exclaims, her eyes sparkling. I notice Kat watching Bradley, a soft smile playing on her lips.

"And what about you? Marriage and kids on the cards for you, Bradley?" Dad asks, his curiosity plain.

Bradley's gaze flickers briefly to me before answering, "I'm taking things as they come, Mr. Brown. Focused on my career for now."

Dad nods, seeming satisfied with the response. "Good to hear. Career first, that's responsible."

I clear my throat, sensing the tension building. "Dad, that's a bit personal," I interject, my voice wavering. Dad looks at me with a frown, as if just realising he might have crossed a line. Underneath the table, Bradley places a discreet hand on my knee, a gesture that momentarily stops my heart.

"It's alright, Amelia," Bradley says softly, his voice reassuring. "Happy to answer."

The conversation shifts to lighter topics as we continue our meal, laughter and stories filling the air. I steal glances at Bradley, grateful for his presence and the way he effortlessly navigates my family dynamics. His hand remains on my knee, a silent reassurance that anchors me amidst the lively chatter.

As we start packing up our plates, the men retreat to the lounge, but Bradley lingers near me. Kat, Mum, and I gather in the kitchen to wash up, and Bradley, bless him, collects the remaining plates from the dining table. He places them on the counter, discarding the leftover food into the rubbish bin.

"Bradley, that's fine. I've got it," my sister insists, taking over.

"Bradley, love, why don't you go and join the boys inside?" Mum suggests.

"I will soon," he replies, locking eyes with me.

I offer him a smile in return. Millie bursts into the kitchen, grabbing Bradley's hand.

"Bwadey, Bwadey, come," she exclaims, tugging him toward the living room. Bradley chuckles and follows my little niece inside, leaving me alone with my thoughts and a sinking feeling in my stomach.

As Mum and Kat exchange knowing looks, I catch on to their silent communication.

"What?" I ask with unease.

Kat responds with a sheepish, "Nothing," before Mum cuts in.

"It's quite obvious, Meli."

"What's obvious?" I press, my confusion growing.

"It's obvious how smitten Bradley is with you, dear. And you, him." Her tone is laced with amusement and a hint of motherly knowingness.

"Yup! You light up whenever he's around. It's cute," Kat adds, a playful grin on her face.

My cheeks burn, and I can't help the small smile tugging at my lips. My heart flutters, caught between wanting to protest and secretly enjoying their teasing. The memory of Brad's comment from the other night flickers in my mind. Sunshine .

My skin tingles as if his words are a touch I can feel.

"Stop it, you guys," I mumble, trying to hide my growing smile. But the warmth in my chest is undeniable. A fuzzy sensation. We eventually finish washing up and join the rest in the lounge.

"Bwadey was showing me his horthies, Mummy. Can we get horthie?" Millie asks, bouncing in front of us. Her pronunciation is still adorable, and I know that nickname is going to stick for a while.

"I don't think so, munchkin. But you can have a toy horse," Kat replies.

"O-kay," Millie says with a little frown, her disappointment clear. She then comes up to me, tugging on my hand.

"Do ya know Bwadey is a bear? He is Bwadey Bear." Her pronunciation is endearing, and I can't help but smile at her.

I furrow my brows, smiling at her, then look over at Bradley, who just shrugs with a grin. His hair is slightly tousled, and he sits on the couch so casually. He's masculine, yet so warm and inviting. I feel myself falling for him, and I can't do anything to stop it.

"Bradley Bear?" I ask, intrigued.

"Yeah! When you hug'im, he feels like a bear," Millie explains, her explanation bringing laughter to the room.

John mutters, "She doesn't say that about me."

Kat smirks and quips, "That's because you're more like a grumpy old possum, John."

Everyone laughs some more, and Millie's little face lights up with joy as she joins in the laughter .

As the evening starts to wane, I feel the fatigue setting in, my eyes heavy and my yawns more frequent. I decide it's time to head home. Bradley seems to have the same idea because he stands up right away. "I should probably head off, too," he says, exchanging goodbyes.

Dad surprises me by stepping forward, offering his hand to Bradley. "It was good to have you here, Bradley. You're welcome back anytime."

My heart races at Dad's unexpected approval. Bradley shakes his hand firmly. "Thank you, sir. I appreciate that." At the sight of Dad's smirk, I can tell he's loving being called sir . He won't ever mention it, but his face gives him away.

Mum calls out, "Yes, dear! Please don't be a stranger."

Bradley smiles. "I won't. Thank you for a wonderful evening."

I say my goodbyes, hugging my sister goodnight, then lean down to plant a big, wet kiss on Millie's cheek. She turns to Bradley, her eyes wide with innocence, and asks for a hug. My heart melts at the sight. Kat's face lights up with a smile, and she sends me a knowing wink. Bradley doesn't hesitate to scoop Millie into his strong arms for a hug that nearly makes my heart burst.

"G'night, Bwadey Bear," Millie chirps happily.

"Night, princess," Bradley replies affectionately.

As Bradley walks me to my car, the evening air feels cooler, making me shiver slightly.

"Thanks again for having me over," he says, his voice warm.

I can't help but tease him. "Well, technically, it was Mum's idea."

His smirk is irresistible. "Oh, so you didn' t want me to come?"

I roll my eyes, trying to hide my smile. "Of course I did. Don't get a big head."

"Hm, that's what I thought," he teases back, leaning in closer.

Before I can process what's happening, Bradley leans forward and kisses me softly. My eyes flutter closed, a contented sigh escaping my nose as his lips meet mine. His cologne surrounds me, intoxicating and comforting all at once, and I just want to sink into the moment.

When he pulls back, I blink up at him, feeling dazed. "What was that for?" I ask, trying to sound innocent.

"Just ‘cause," he says, tucking a stray hair behind my ear. "Goodnight, Amelia."

Be still my heart.

"Goodnight, Bradley Bear," I say with a playful wink.

He rolls his eyes, but his smile gives him away. "You're never going to let that go, are you?"

"Nope," I reply, grinning mischievously. "Consider it payback for calling me Meli."

"Fair point," he chuckles softly. With that, he turns and heads toward his car. I watch him go, lingering for a moment before opening my car door. Just as I'm about to step inside, his voice stops me.

"Amelia."

I turn to face him. "Yeah?"

"Drive safe, okay?" His concern is evident in his voice. I furrow my brows for a moment, touched by his unexpected worry.

"Always," I assure him.

He nods, a small smile playing on his lips, and then he gets into his car and drives off into the night.

I lie in bed, snuggled up against my pillows, the soft glow of my bedside lamp creating a warm cocoon in my room. Sleep eludes me, my mind swirling with the events of tonight. Bradley meeting Dad, bonding effortlessly with my sister and sweet Millie—it's like something out of a movie.

The way Bradley interacted with Millie... It's heart-melting. He has this natural ease with kids that makes me imagine a future where he's a dad, whether it's with me or someone else. It's a thought that both excites and scares me in equal measure. I'm in this strange limbo of wanting to move forward, yet feeling hesitant to take that leap.

But maybe Kat's right; maybe it's time I stop overthinking and just go for it. I need to find the courage to make my feelings clear, even if it feels a bit daunting. Determined, I grab my phone and text him.

I know he's probably awake, but I want to check just in case he's exhausted after a big day—though I still have no idea what his day was like. His reply comes almost instantly.

I smile before replying.

I can work with that. I wonder if he has trouble sleeping at night. Does his mind keep him up, too? Feeling peckish for a snack, I decide to push my nerves aside and ask.

Those three little bubbles appear, and I stare at them. They disappear, and I frown, waiting for his reply. If he replies. Maybe he doesn't like ice cream. Maybe he wants to sleep.

My heart does a little flip. At least he's still replying.

Those three dots appear and stay there before disappearing again. Hm. Minutes pass and no reply comes.

I close my phone, trying not to be too discouraged. Padding into the kitchen to fill up my water bottle, a gentle vibration in my pocket sends a wave of butterflies fluttering in my stomach. I open the text message.

Hope surges through me. Suddenly, there's a soft knock on my door, and panic shoots through me. Who on earth could that be?

I hesitate, approaching the door cautiously, wishing I had a peephole. I slide the security chain off before opening it slowly, and my jaw drops.

Bradley stands there, filling the doorframe, looking absolutely adorable in black trackies and a matching hoodie, holding two pints of Ben and Jerry's ice cream.

Oh, my goodness.

I'll never tire of seeing him looking so laid back.

I'm speechless.