Hard to Hold (15 page)

“Hey, baby girl, what's up?”

Logan grinned as he pictured his younger sister's face as he called her his pet name, which never failed to annoy her.

But today she surprised him.

“You know, I'm so happy there is nothing you can say to piss me off. I got engaged last night.”

Logan's mouth dropped as he jogged on the treadmill. He had the phone connected through Bluetooth, and he was able to keep up his workout and talk at the same time.

“No shit! You and Gavin are getting married? Jess, that's fantastic!”

“Yes, I'm very excited about it, too. And I was totally surprised. We went out to dinner last night to celebrate my birthday, and he got down on one knee right in the restaurant. I started crying like a baby, and when I said yes, the waiters and waitresses applauded. It was just like the movies.”

A big smile broke out on his face. “I'm really happy for you. Gavin is a great guy, and he's perfect for you. So when is the wedding?”

“We're thinking next year. I'd like to do it sooner, but our parents are having none of it. Mom wants the church, the whole nine yards. She's going to drive me crazy, I see it now.”

“Let her. After all, you are the only girl. This is her best shot.”

Except for Cinnamon…

“I know. But already we are arguing about wedding gowns. I swear to God, she wants me to look like a cake topper in some ball gown. Can you imagine?”

He had to laugh. “No.” His sister was a physical therapist, and something of a tomboy. She primarily dressed in workout clothes, so the image she painted was comical.

“Mom and Dad want to have a little party to celebrate on Sunday,” she continued. “I checked your schedule, and it looks like you are local this weekend?”

“Yes. That will work.”

“Good. Rory can come, too. Liam and Colin can't make it, but we are hoping Coulter can. And Gavin is going to ask a couple of his friends from the Sonics. Their game is done around four, so we thought we'd get together, watch some football, and have some fun.”

“Sounds good.”

“And of course bring Bella and the baby.”

Logan hesitated. Did he really want to get his parents more involved in his shit? “That gets a little complicated. We'd have to pack up all of her stuff, the stroller and the playpen. And I know Mom isn't set up for a baby.”

“Are you kidding me?” He heard his sister laugh. “You obviously haven't been home in a while. I don't think we were out the door from your place when she started ordering stuff. She's turned your old room into a nursery; it looks like an ad from Babies R Us.”

“You're kidding.” He slowed to a walk on the treadmill.

“Nope. Wait till you see it. I don't know why you are surprised. You will be the rock star, bringing Cinnamon to the party. And don't you think everyone should get to know Bella?”

“I was going to introduce her a little at a time,” Logan said, not really wanting to explain himself. But taking a girl to the parents? That was serious shit and sent a serious message. Was he ready for that? “The Harts can be a lot to take all at once.”

“Chicken,” his sister shot back.

“You got that right. I care about this girl and want her to hang around for a while.”

“You'd better get on it then,” Jess advised. “In case you don't realize it, Isabella is stunning. Someone's going to snatch her out from under you if you wait too long.”

“See you Sunday.” He hung up.

A sense of urgency began to build inside of him at Jessica's words. What the hell was wrong with him? Logan went after what he wanted and got it, whether it was the soccer ball or a woman.

Especially one like Isabella.

She was special, one in a million, and he didn't need his sister to fucking remind him of that. It wasn't just that she was beautiful; there were lots of pretty girls out there, soccer fans and groupies who tossed their lace thongs on the field, tried to get into their locker room, and sent him explicit tweets. While it was fun and flattering, for Logan, that's where it began and ended.

Bella was in a class by herself.

Jess was right. He cared about this woman, and she didn't even trust him enough to confide in him. Something was eating at her, something he sensed would drive them apart like a cancer if he didn't get it on the table. It was time he kicked his act into high gear. He had to take things to the next level, and not just in the physical sense. For Logan, that part was easy.

Love was the hard part.

“So you finally got a day off!”

Anna tipped her head toward the passenger seat as Isabella got inside the sports car and gave her a big grin.

“Yes, so looking forward to it. Not that I don't love Cinnamon, but Logan's taking her to his parents' house. Seems they've invited all three of us for a party on Sunday, and he wants to figure out what they've already bought and what we need to bring.”

“Party? All three of you? Sunday?” Anna let out a wolf whistle, her brows arching. “Sounds serious!”

“Maybe, maybe not. I've already met his sister and mother, so it's not like this is the big intro to the fam. But still…” She worried at her lip, doing considerable damage to her Classic Chanel Red.

“So did you tell him?”

She didn't need Anna to be more specific. There was one big thing she had to say to Logan. “I tried. But he was all happy when the baby babble sounded like Dada.” She related the story as Anna pulled out of the garage.

But her thoughts betrayed the words she'd just uttered. Logan wasn't casual where she was concerned. She knew the difference. And yes, while he hadn't put his feelings on a silver platter and spelled it out for her, she knew she wasn't just a notch on his belt.

Anna gave her an understanding look. “I guess it wasn't the right time.”

“Right. I know I have to. Not just for me, but the baby. Cinnamon is a big part of this, too. Did I tell you his mother went out and furnished a nursery? She is absolutely sure this is her first grandchild.”

“No kidding.” Anna glanced at her, and then back to the road. “How are you feeling about this?”

“It's a lot of pressure,” Isabella admitted. “When I met his mother the first time, she just assumed I was the nanny. Now they must know we're in some kind of relationship. I mean, his sister may have said something, even though she kept it on the down-low the night she babysat for us. But then there's Facebook…”

“So? Look, Bella, they'd be stupid if they didn't suspect. After all, you are a beautiful woman, and Logan is a guy. I don't think the family is your issue. I think
he
is.”

“What does that mean?”

Anna laughed. “Oh, come on. No way in hell is Logan Hart taking a woman to his family gathering and bringing the baby if he doesn't see her as a fit. At least, considering it.”

“That's what I was afraid of.” She let out the breath she didn't know she was holding.

“But I agree that you should have the talk. Because, if I am not mistaken, Logan's feelings are very much reciprocated.”

Isabella's jaw dropped. Catching a glimpse of herself in the mirror, she realized she needed to reapply her lipstick. The simple task calmed her, and as she put the black lacquer tube back into her purse, she sighed in resignation.

“Okay. I like him.” When she got another look, she laughed. “I
really
like him. How could I not? But—”

“Stop there,” her best friend said as they pulled into downtown Princeton. “You more than like him; it's written all over you. I don't want to hear denials, or reasons he might reject you.”

At Isabella's astonished look, she continued. “You've got to stop thinking of yourself as second best because of Josh. It's time to put your best foot forward and go for what you want.”

“And how do you know what that is?” She managed to maintain some kind of dignity, in spite of Anna's in-your-face Jersey girl tactics.

“I'm a doctor and people pay me all day long for my professional advice,” Anna continued without a pause. “So my prescription for what ails you is a stop in the Promenade, get a cute new outfit to wear to the party, and we'll finish it off with cocktails. And then? You show Logan Hart the whole package. How things could be with a woman like you. You'll knock him on his ass and then some.”

Isabella couldn't help it. Anna's enthusiasm was infectious and she caught the vibe. Maybe it was time to stop selling herself short, and she liked the idea of being proactive. It made her feel better, more empowered, as if she had a hand in creating her own future.

“Love it,” she admitted as they pulled into the parking garage. “And Anna? Thanks. I owe you.”

“Hey, I'm thinking tall, blond, and gorgeous has got to have a few cute soccer friends.” She grinned, unbuckling her seatbelt. “Maybe he wouldn't mind introducing me to a few?”

Isabella had to smile. She was thinking the same thing.

Sunday rolled around quickly. Thankfully, by the time Logan appeared, Isabella had everything packed and ready.

“So I don't suppose your mom thought to order a bottle warmer?” Isabella broke into his thoughts, gazing at the diaper bag and the light jacket she'd laid out for the baby. “If not, it's no big deal—”

“She's got it. I swear, Jess was right. I think she just backed her SUV up to the baby store and shoved everything she could think of inside.”

“It really is sweet,” Isabella commented, but her expression softened when she saw his face. “Stop worrying. It will all work out for the best. And these weren't your decisions. Your mother wanted to do this, to make a place for Cinnamon in your family, even knowing the risks. I only met her once, but she doesn't strike me as being dim-witted. I admire her optimism.”

The grip loosened around Logan's heart, and he looked at the woman before him in wonder. “How the hell do you do it? I was worried sick that my mother had fallen in love with a baby that might not be mine, and in one sentence, you've made it okay.”

“That's what nannies do,” she said, and he saw a mischievous glimmer in those amazing emerald eyes. “We kiss it and make it better.”

“I like the sound of that.” He pulled her into his arms and kissed her hard, on the mouth, feeling her squirm against him before relaxing into his warmth. Then she was responding, kissing him back, and pressing that lithe body against his until his blood pounded…

Fortunately or unfortunately, Cinnamon began to stir, and the monitor sounded with her chatter.

“Damn.” Logan withdrew, utterly gratified to see the look on Bella's face: she was as stunned as he was by the quick fire that had ignited between them.

“You can always make it up to me later,” she responded, giving him a fucking Monroe smile that totally tested his control.

She went for the baby, and when she returned, he gave her a good once-over. Did she somehow look different? She was always beautiful, but he noticed that her jeans looked new and fit her like a goddamned glove.

And she wore an ivory colored cashmere sweater that, while casual, made him long to touch it. To touch her. And did he see a peek of black lace when she shrugged her shoulders? And sparkly studs at her ears?

Suddenly, he could envision her clad in that bra and panties, wearing only that and the earrings as he ate her into screaming his name, begging for more…

He swallowed hard.
Shit.
Somehow, he had to get through the party, enjoy himself for Jessica's sake. And later?

He grinned as he thought of Isabella teasing him.

Two could play that game.

The Harts' suburban split-level was in the town of Cherry Hill, located over the bridge from Philadelphia, and an hour west of Atlantic City. As Logan pulled into the pretty development, Isabella admired the tall shade trees on both sides of the road, the backyards filled with swing sets and tree houses, and patios encumbered with gas grills and chairs.

This was where Logan grew up. She could envision him playing ball at the field they'd just passed and riding his bike down the tree-lined streets.

Late summer flowers bloomed in the sun, and although the houses themselves were similar in shape, it was an older, established neighborhood where people put their individual stamp on their property. Some had elaborate landscaping, while others boasted manicured lawns. A ranch they passed had a distinctly casual vibe with a carefree stone driveway and a couple of chairs on the porch for relaxing, while the split-level next door boasted a red door, gray paint, black shutters, and stately plantings.

When Logan pulled into the driveway at the end of the street, she had to smile. She could have picked this house out from the rest. It wasn't as prissily immaculate but looked well lived in. There was a basketball net on the pole out front, a football in the middle of the yard, and worn paths from the feet of kids where they'd trodden over the years. A hockey net graced the end of the driveway, and a couple of sticks leaned inside the garage along with an assortment of bikes.

Didn't Logan say he had four brothers? Poor Jess, she thought in amusement as he lifted Cinnamon out of the car seat. No wonder she grew up to be a tomboy; the place seemed overwhelmingly male, at least on the outside.

“Hey, come around back!” The door opened, and one of Logan's brothers appeared. She saw the resemblance immediately, with the reddish hair, Irish good looks, and twinkling blue eyes. “You must be Bella. I've heard good things about you from our baby sister. I'm Rory.”

Isabella returned the infectious smile. “Nice to meet you! I thought we'd get the baby situated first, and then we can join everyone…”

She'd barely gotten the words from her mouth when Logan's mother appeared, nudging past Rory.

“There she is! Look how cute in that sweater!” Scooping the little girl into her arms, she gave Isabella an apologetic grin. “Sorry. I am just so excited to have Cinnamon visit! Why don't you show Isabella around, and I'll take care of this little one.”

Logan gave her a grin. “I don't think we can pry that baby away from her for at least a few hours. I'll give you the grand tour later, but let's go say hello.”

“It is kind of sweet, your mother and Cinnamon,” she commented, following Logan through the grass. “After having so many boys, she must have been thrilled with Jessica.”

“Yeah. Tried to doll her up in those frilly little dresses. Jess wanted no part of it.”

The screen door opened and another brother appeared, wearing a smirk. “There you are! We were wondering what was taking so long. Beauty sleep?”

“A baby,” Logan replied, giving him a good-natured shrug. “They take time.”

“I wouldn't know.” His gaze shifted to hers and she saw the resemblance but also the differences. Logan's crystalline eyes were brown in his sibling and closer set, and his features were less rugged, more classically beautiful. There was a two-inch scar gracing one cheekbone, and his mouth was firm, fighting another grin.

“You must be Bella. I'm Coulter. I figured I'd introduce myself and not wait for him to do it. We might be here all night.” He gave her a wink. “Jess is right; you are gorgeous. What are you doing with him?”

“I don't know,” Isabella said, going along with the joke. She glanced at Logan, seeing the twinkle in Coulter's eyes while his brother's darkened in warning. “You didn't tell me your brothers were all so good looking. Maybe I should reconsider?”

“Funny, funny girl,” Logan said, putting an arm around her shoulders possessively even as an older man joined them and extended his hand in greeting.

“Ignore them. They've been fighting since they were born. I'm Frank, their dad. I'm very happy to meet you.”

“Thanks, me too.” Isabella shook it and found it surprisingly strong and warm.

“Come on in. We have plenty of food. Logan, a beer? Bella?”

Rory looked up from the cooler and tossed him a cold one that he caught with one hand.

“White wine would be great,” she said, feeling the warmth of Logan's embrace as his brother poured her drink.

Jessica looked up and a huge grin broke out on her face. “Hey, Bella! Come meet Gavin.”

Logan's younger sister was seated on the couch beside a handsome young man whom Isabella quickly surmised was her fiancé. A few other couples stood up as they entered, and Isabella recognized a few of them as members of the New Jersey Sonics baseball team. Jessica got to her feet.

“Don't look so worried, Logan. We won't scare her away.”

Isabella looked helplessly over her shoulder as Logan's sister pulled her into their group and made introductions. Her fiancé, Gavin, greeted her warmly, and then she met Connor Jackson and Tracy Coleman, along with her four little children.

“They're all yours?” Isabella grinned as the little girl insisted on showing off her Rey costume.

“Yes.” Tracy smiled back and indicated the children. “Mason, Chloe, Ethan, and Lily.” She indicated her twirling daughter. “Last year it was all Disney princesses. This year it's
Star Wars
.”

“They are adorable,” she remarked as Rory handed her a drink.

“Sometimes,” Tracy said with a dry smile.

“Hey there,” Logan said to Tracy's son, a serious little boy who seemed to watch over his siblings like a protective parent. He offered the youth a handshake. “I'm Logan.”

The little boy shook his hand even as his mother smiled. “That's Mason. He was very interested to meet you because of the soccer. He's started to play in school.”

“We'll have to kick the ball around later. See what you've got.”

The boy's eyes brightened and he nodded his head eagerly.

“Probably kick your ass,” Coulter said under his breath.

“Probably,” Logan agreed. “He looks like he can yours. Good thing the NFL wanted you. You'd last two seconds on a soccer field.”

“Don't mind them,” Jessica said to Isabella, giving her brothers an eye roll as Isabella suppressed a grin.

“Are they always like this?”

“No,” Jessica said, patting the sofa and indicating for her to join them. “They're usually worse. They are on good behavior because of the kids. And you.”

Isabella joined Jessica on the couch and realized she liked Logan's family immensely. They were funny and sharp-witted, teasing each other at every turn, but she sensed the genuine affection they had for one another beneath the verbal abuse.

Logan took Gavin's hand and then grinned down at his sister. “So congrats, baby girl. You're a lucky man, Gavin.”

“You've got that right,” Gavin said, looking at Jessica warmly while she gave him an embarrassed shrug.

“Let's see the ring!” Isabella insisted, and Jessica proudly displayed the simple cushion-cut diamond. “Wow. It's beautiful!”

“Isn't it?” Logan's sister beamed, while her brothers shared a look. “It was a total surprise. The design is perfect. I really love that it's simple.”

“Me too. Classic and elegant.” Isabella admired the stone, and then reached in her bag and withdrew an envelope. “Here's a little something to help you celebrate.”

She saw Logan's look of surprise and then gratitude. She figured he wouldn't think of a present, not with everything going on in his life. It was just a gift card for Sur la Table, but with a wedding coming up, she felt there would be a few kitchen items they would need.

“That is so sweet!” Jessica said as she tore open the card and exclaimed in delight at the gift. “I love that store! Honestly, you didn't have to bring us anything. We just wanted to get together with everyone and celebrate.”

“I know. But I thought you might like something for the future. And Logan mentioned you like to cook.”

“I do. I made the lasagna tonight, so if it's terrible, it's me to blame. Mom made everything else. Thanks.” She waved the card in the air. “I'll put this to good use.”

Logan's mother brought Cinnamon out to the porch and placed her on the blanket next to Lily, Tracy's youngest. Like most babies, they were fascinated with each other. Cinnamon's eyes lit up with wonder as Lily shared a ring of brightly colored plastic keys.

“Can I help?” Isabella got to her feet when she saw Logan's mother return with the salad.

Diana shook her head in the negative. “No, I know how hard you've been working.” She sent the baby a fond look. “It's your day off. Besides, everything's done. I'm just setting it out.”

The football game was on, and Colin Hart was playing. She grinned as she saw his brothers scrutinize the game, cheer when he ran the ball, and groan when he got tackled. Their father shook his head, getting to his feet when the play went awry, and threw his hands up in the air in disgust.

“What is the coach thinking with that crap? Where's the plan?”

“Up his ass,” Coulter said, and then glanced at Tracy apologetically. “Sorry. Forgot the little ears.”

She smiled, distracting the children as Colin's team scored a touchdown, and the guys all roared with approval. It was like having a big extended family, Isabella thought, something she'd never personally experienced, but it looked like a lot of fun.

Halftime arrived, and they all came to the buffet-style layout for their meal. The conversation flowed as everyone helped themselves to the lasagna and salad, taking seats at the table and around the room.

I could fit in here,
Isabella thought as Logan joined her, even while arguing with his father over fantasy football. She could see herself as part of this family, enjoying the holidays, Sunday dinners, and barbeques in the summer…

“So Mace, want to go outside?” Logan offered when he'd finished, noticing that Tracy's son sat on the sidelines. His little brother Ethan played contentedly with Chloe and the babies, but Mason was a little older and obviously bored.

Eagerly he followed Logan. Coulter joined them on the lawn, and together they set up soccer nets and produced a ball. Logan rolled it to Mason, cheering raucously when the little guy managed to make contact.

Jessica came to sit beside Isabella, indicating her brother with a tip of her head. “You wouldn't think it when you first meet Logan, but he really is great with kids.”

“I know,” Isabella commented. “It takes awhile to see that side of him. He positively melts over Cinnamon.”

“But the baby isn't the only one he cares about.” Jessica's eyes met hers. “I think he's serious where you are concerned. Very serious.”

A pregnant pause followed her words and Isabella didn't know what to say, how to react. Thankfully, a squeal of delight came from the backyard. Mason managed to kick the ball a good three feet into the net, and Coulter and Logan exploded as if he'd just won the World Cup. They high-fived the little boy, who turned to his mother, beaming with pride. Connor joined them on the lawn, picked up Mason, and hoisted him on his shoulder.