The Best Mistake

Chapter Twenty-Four

I woke up way before the sun in a huge ball of emotions. To say I was excited would be an understatement. It was four in the morning and all I could think about was setting up for the party. After tossing and turning for nearly ten minutes, I gave up on trying to go back to sleep. I got out of bed careful not to disturb Royce and tipped across the hall to the girls’ room. Thankfully, they were still fast asleep, so I knew I had plenty of time to start cooking. I made my way to the kitchen and quickly got to work with making the cookies and cupcakes. I wasted no time tossing them into the oven and got started on dressing the party bags. The party was small consisting of only twelve kids and around eighteen adults. I created fifteen party bags which contained blow horns, candies, balloons, slime, party hats, glasses and toys. The boys party bags had toy water guns or race cars while the girls had cute dolls and waterproof polish. Most of the items in the bags were cocomelon themed and looked so adorable. By the time I finished with the cookies, cupcakes, cooking the meat balls and wings it was 6:30 am. I heard Royce's sluggish footsteps coming down the stairs. I laughed when he came into view rubbing his eyes and scratching his 5 o'clock shadow.
 
"Good morning." I smiled.
 
"Morning." He mumbled. "How long were you up?" he asked looking around the kitchen.
 
"4am." I shrugged.
 
"Why am I not surprised?"
 
"I was able to get a lot of things done." I said.
 
"Alright Captain Shawn, what do you need from me?" He asked.
 
"Well you can get started on the yard. The bouncy house, tents, table and chairs are getting delivered this morning." I said.
 
"Alright awesome. Do you already have all the decorations?" He asked.
 
"Yes, I doooo. They are in those boxes over there and bags from yesterday are in the linen closet." I said.
 
"Okay, I'll get started on the yard and cleaning the grill."
 
"Okay, when the tables and chairs get here, I'll come out to start decorating. I'm going to get started on a special breakfast."
 
"Alrighty, come on Spot." Royce called out.
 
As expected, Spot came running down the hall and wagged his tail excitedly as he approached Royce. Now that Royce was preparing the yard, I could get breakfast started. I decided on cooking waffles with bacon and eggs to start off the girls’ special day. They will soon be awake, and I was hoping that they sleep a little longer than usual so that most of the party would be set up. My cell phone pinged, and I quickly cleaned my hands and grabbed it. I smiled when I noticed it was a text from Mason.
 
'Morning.' He said.
 
'Good morning sir, you're up early.'
 
'Yea I know, I wanted to know if you forgot something?' he asked.
 
I was confused by his question until he sent me a photo. I zoomed in on the photo confused by the picture of the piece of paper until I recognized it. My eyes widened and I quickly looked in my purse as though I would find it there.
 
'Is that the receipt for the girl's birthday cake? Oh my God, I hadn't even realized, it's a good thing you have it.' I typed.
 
'I figured as much. I found it on the floor of my car, it probably fell out while you were looking through your purse.'
 
'Thanks so much for securing it for me.'
 
'Do you want me to pick the cake up on my way there?' He asked.
 
'Yes, that'd be great, thank you.'
 
'No problem, are the girls awake yet?'
 
'No thankfully, I still have a few things to get done before they do.'
 
'Lol, okay, I'll see you guys when I get there.'
 
'Great.'
 
I quickly went back to my task putting icing on the cupcakes. Royce came inside from the yard looking more awake then when he first went out there.
 
"Okay the yard looks brand new and so does the grill."
 
"Thank you. Oh, I need you to get some ice from the store and two dozen dinner rolls from the bakery." I said.
 
"Okay, is that the same bakery you ordered the girls cake from?"
 
"No, it's not." I said.
 
"I don't understand why you didn't bake the cake yourself, you're pretty good at it." He said.
 
"Thanks, but I wanted the cake to go along with the theme so that had to be professionally done." I said.
 
"Well that's true. I'll pick up the cake on my way home so I wouldn't have to make double trips."
 
"Oh um, Mason is going to pick up the cake." I said hesitantly.
 
Royce paused and turned to face me completely. "Why?" He asked.
 
"Well it's easier than having him come way here to bring the receipt, I told him to pick it up on his way here."
 
"How the hell did he get the receipt?"
 
My nerves spiked just thinking about his reaction. I was going to tell him about my little shopping trip with Mason but not yet, when today was supposed to be happy day, an argument is the last thing that I want right now.
 
"We went to the store yesterday and I dropped it in his car...." I trailed off.
 
Royce frown deepened, "So, you went to the store with him, in his car and didn't tell me?"
 
"I was going to. It wasn't a big deal."
 
"Why did he need to accompany you? You shop just fine alone." He said angrily.
 
"Royce, he was only being nice, and he wanted to help with buying the decorations for the girls."
 
"Unbelievable."
 
"Royce you have to trust me." I pleaded.
 
"Ava how can I huh? Every time I let my guard down you hide something else to make me doubt you all over again."
 
"That isn't true! I've never lied to you about anything. I may not have always said anything right away, but I always told you."
 
"This isn't just about you Ava. How can you trust the guy so easily to be around you and the girls?"
 
"Royce, he is a really nice guy and it's not fair for you to judge him before you even meet him. He doesn't have any animosity towards you even after I told him you wanted me to stop looking for him." The words were out before I could process them.
 
Royce eyes widened, "Oh wow! Great! Now the guy is coming here today with every reason to hate me. You guys are just buddy buddy aren't you? He's swooping in to make his move when I'm not around just like he did the first time."
 
"Stop it!!!" I screamed out. Whatever patience I held onto these last two years is quickly draining out and I am beyond tired, I'm fed up. Royce went silent at my outburst and I didn't stop there.
 
"I'm sorry okay?! I'm sorry that I didn't tell you right away, I know that I should have, but I knew you'd react this way! You have been on my back for two years and it's even worse now and I'm tired! I'm sorry I hurt you Royce, I really am and I'm trying so hard to make things right for us, but you must understand that my daughters come first! Their father wants to be a part of their lives and I will let him, so that means he is also a part of my life and yours! We haven't done anything yesterday, Mason has been a complete gentleman to us, kind and caring from the beginning. He has his own girlfriend and his own life outside of us and all he wants is to do the right thing and be in his children's lives. I'll be damned if I let your ego and jealousy get in the way of that. Mason doesn't deserve your animosity, I do. Mason has no loyalty to you, I do. It wasn't Mason who hurt you years ago I did." I cried. "So please, I'm not asking you to be best friends or to like him, I am asking you to be a mature adult and try to coexist with him cause he is here to stay." By the time I was done talking I was panting and tears had already left my eyes, leaving wet streaks on my cheeks.
 
Royce and I stared at each other silently as the tension between us thickened. Suddenly I heard a soft cry and my head immediately snapped towards the stairs. My outburst probably woke the girls and I'm not surprised.
 
"I'll get the ice and dinner rolls." Royce mumbled as he grabbed his keys and stormed out of the house. I sighed deeply before heading up stairs to the girls. I hated going through this constant back and forth especially a happy day like this. I wiped away the tears quickly before plastering a small smile on my face and entering their room. They were already standing in their cribs facing the door when I walked in.
 
"Good morning, good morning, how are you this morning." I sang softly approaching them.
 
Their smiles widened as I approached them. "Good morning my beautiful girls, do you know what today is?" I asked.
 
They looked confused and I laughed, "It’s your birthday!" I yelled.
 
The girls’ eyes widened at my outburst and quickly started jumping and clapping in their cribs.
"Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Lily and Peppaaa, happy birthday to you. How old are you now? Two!" I yelled pointing at them. "How old are you now?"
 
"Two!" They screamed.
 
"How old are you noowww?!".
 
"Two!"
 
"Happy Birthday to youuu! Hip hip hip!"
 
"Hooray!!" They giggled.
 
I grinned as I took them out of their cribs. I showered their faces with kisses and hugged them close. "Happy Birthday to mommy's girls! Today is your day okay babies?"
 
"Yes!" Lily yelled.
 
I placed them on their feet, and we made our way downstairs to their special breakfast. I placed the girls in their chairs and had the pleasure of watching their eyes lit up at the sight of the waffles with whip cream on top. As the girls ate their breakfast, I tried my hardest to stay positive for them. The last thing I wanted today was for them to see me upset. Thankfully the party truck arrived with the tents, bouncy house, tables and chairs. I directed them to the back yard and headed back inside with the girls who was finishing up their breakfast. I was trying my best to keep the girls distracted from what was going on outside, luckily most of the party treats were already outside. I wanted it to be a surprise and I wanted to capture the looks on their faces. I decided that opening one of their gifts will be a healthy distraction. I took them into the living room after breakfast to give them their first gift for the day. They eagerly ripped through the wrapping paper revealing multi-coloured blocks. It was simple but I knew they'd love these blocks since they were constantly fighting over the little they have. What's even better is that the blocks are bigger than their other ones and lights up. Like I expected, they loved them.
 
"Wow! Mommy blocks is pretty!" Lily said.
 
"Yes Lily, the blocks ARE pretty." I laughed.
 
"Thank you momma." Peppa grinned.
 
"Thank you mommy!"
 
The girls hugged me tightly and I kissed their heads softly. "You're welcome babies, today is your day. Now, play with your blocks and be good until mommy is done okay? No fighting." I warned.
 
The girls nodded and quickly made their way over to their blocks excitedly. The guys were finally done setting up and I quickly sent them on their way. I started gathering everything that I needed to begin decorating. Thankfully, decorating is not much of a challenge for me. I already knew what I wanted and what I'd have to do to get it. Making sure to peep in on the girls every now and again, I got to work. I picked my center table that would have the cocomelon background, gifts, sweet treats and party bags. I had just finish setting up the background when Royce got back home. Putting my work on pause I headed inside to check on him.
 
"Happy Birthday!!!" He yelled out.
 
"Roy! Roy!" The girls chanted excitedly. They ran into Royce's arms and he hugged them tightly.
 
"Hmm I missed you so much! Do you know how old you are today?"
 
"Two!" They yelled.
 
"Yes, you're two. You're big girls now."
 
"Big girls." Lily said.
 
"That's right sweetie. Oh wow, is that your new blocks?"
 
"Yes! Mommy buyed...bought our blocks." Peppa said.
 
"They're pretty." Lily grinned.
 
"Yes, they are. Go ahead and play with them." He winked.
 
Royce picked up the bags off the floor by his feet where he laid them and brought them into the kitchen. I was standing near the back door observing the entire exchange with the girls.
 
"Hey." He said softly looking remorseful.
 
"Hi."
 
"Listen, I'm sorry about this morning. It wasn't fair of me to do that, especially not today."
 
"You mean it?" I asked worried.
 
Royce approached me slowly and took my hands into his. "Yes, I do. I will be on my best behavior, you were right, I have to learn how to be cordial for the sake of the girls."
 
"Thank you, I'm sorry if I hurt you, I never want to do that. I only want the best for the girls and so far, their father wants to be that for them, I can't ignore that." I said.
 
"I understand, it's just the thought of losing you makes me crazy. I don't want you to give up on us, I'm trying to keep this."
 
"I know." I said.
 
Royce pulled my face towards his and kissed me gently.
"Okay, enough with the heavy, what do you need?"
 
"I need you to make sure that the girls don't come outside until I'm done."
 
"Oh, the table and chairs are here?"
 
I nodded, "Along with the bouncy house and tents."
 
"Awesome, I'll keep them distracted, let me know if you need anything." He said.
 
I quickly continued my work knowing that I didn't have to worry about the girls. The tables and chairs were all designed under the theme with cocomelon centerpieces for each table. Now that the tables, chairs and the main table was set up, I started setting up my life-size cocomelon characters. There were about 4ft tall and were fabulously placed at different corners of the yard. After decorating two extra special chairs for the girls, my work was basically done. The entire theme looked lovely. The only thing that wasn't cocomelon themed was the bouncy house and that was because I couldn't find any.
 
"Royce!" I called out as I stared at my masterpiece proudly.
 
Royce stepped out the house and his eyes widened immediately. "Oh wow, Ava this looks great!" He said.
 
I bowed, "Thank you kindly. Your grilling corner is already setup, you only have to bring out the hamburgers and hotdogs. Also, you have to bring the cooler with the ice outside and put the drinks inside."
 
"Awesome, what about the rest of the food?"
 
"I'm about to do the cheesey potatoes now, but the wings, meat balls and veggies are all cooked and being kept warm. Catherine will be bringing more balloons shortly and then I'll bring out the cookies and cupcakes before the guests arrive. All gifts are going on that table next to the candy buffet and party bags." I said.
 
Royce stared at me and chuckled shaking his head.
"What?" I asked.
 
"This has to be your party." He said.
 
"Shut up. It's already 1 o'clock so I'm going to start getting the girls and I ready." I said.
 
I dashed inside ignoring Royce's chuckles and headed for the living room. "Come on girls, time to get dressed in your birthday outfits!" I said.
 
The blocks were instantly forgotten as they ran to my side excitedly and we headed upstairs. I've been planning the girls party in secret, so I was beyond excited to see everyone's reaction and even more excited to see their reactions to their outfits. The girls’ birthday outfits were also cocomelon themed: a white shirt with the cocomelon logo, their ages and names on the front with adorable multi-coloured tutus. I was even able to find tiaras to put on their heads.
 
"Look what mommy has." I said holding out their outfits.
 
Their eyes widened instantly, "Wow!" they said.
 
"Mommy that's cocomelon." Lily said.
 
"Yes, it is. You girls have to take a bath so I can dress you in your outfits."
 
For the first time ever, Lily ran to the bathroom excited.  I was beyond shocked at how easy it was to clean them both. After they were out the tub, I dressed them in their outfits before styling their hairs. Deciding on a simply braid crown, being sure to leave out pieces of their hairs in the front, I placed their tiaras on their heads.
 
"You girls are so beautiful!" I said.
 
The girls twirled around as they stared at themselves in the mirror on their door. They were beyond satisfied with their new look and I was so proud I was able to do it for them. I snapped a few pictures on my phone as they danced around their room in glee.
 
"Okay girls, mommy has to get dressed okay." I said.
 
They were completely distracted by their new look giving me the time I needed to get cleaned up. Like the girls, I'm also dressing for the theme. I left my blonde hair down for the day and wore a white t-shirt with the cocomelon's logo and characters on the front along with my black leggings. I was strapping on my white and pink sneakers when Catherine entered my room.
 
"Knock knock, where are the birthday girls?!" She said.
 
Hearing those magic words, the girls dashed from their room and clung onto Cat's legs. Cat laughed happily and knelt to the girls.
 
"Oh wow! You girls look beautiful! Mommy did a good job shockingly." She said. I rolled my eyes.
 
"Happy Birthday my sweet gumballs." She peppered them with kisses.
 
"Thank you." They grinned.
 
Cat stood up quickly and took in my attire, "You don't look so bad yourself."
 
"Right back at ya." I laughed. Cat wore a short peach strapless dress with nude strappy sandals. Leave it up to Cat to wear a dress at a kid’s party.
 
"I brought the balloons." She said.
 
"Ok I'm going to set them up. Help the girls put on their slippers and bring them out." I said.
 
I dashed downstairs to quickly set up the helium balloons around the back yard, I left the number Two balloons to tie onto the girls’ chairs. Now that the party is finally done, the only thing missing was the cake, the girls can come outside to see it. Royce was dealing with the grill when I heard a knock at the door and went to answer it. I grinned at the sight of my mom and my aunty Mae. My aunt Mae is my mother's younger sister, she is 38, married with one daughter and worked as an accountant. Where Cat is my other a half, Aunt Mae was my mother's.
 
"Hi mom, hi Aunt Mae."
 
"We've come bearing gifts." Mom grinned holding up gift bags.
 
"Well in that case, come on in." I laughed.
 
I opened the door further so they could enter, it was then that I noticed my little cousin Maze clinging onto my aunt. Her blonde hair hung in short curls around her ears and she wore a flared blouse with blue jeans and flats.
"Hey Maze, wow look at you, you're so gorgeous. How old are you now?" I asked.
 
"6." She smiled politely.
 
"God, you're a big girl, come on in the girls will be down in a second." I said.
 
I directed them to the backyard pleased by their reactions. Soon I heard the girls’ footsteps trickling down the stairs. They held onto Cat's hands and their little faces wore the brightest smile.
 
"You girls look so beautiful, come on mommy has a surprise."
 
"Another surprise?" Lily asked brightly.
 
"There are going to be many surprises for you girls today." I smiled.
 
I took their hands in mines and guided them to the back yard. As I anticipated their eyes lit up in excitement, their little mouths fell open in shock as they gasped. Royce was standing near the door and captured their reaction with his cell phone.
 
"Oh wow!" Lily shouted.
 
"Mommy it's cocomelon!!" Peppa screeched.
 
Everyone eyes widened in shock at the sound of Peppa's voice. We were all accustomed to Peppa speaking with her inside voice. Lily was pretty much always loud. My eyes watered at such a reaction, all I ever wanted was to make this day beyond special for them.
 
"Remember you told mommy you wanted a party? So, mommy made it happen, all of your friends are coming." I said.
 
The girls hugged my thigh tightly and I crouched so that I could return the hug.
 
"Thank you."
 
"Thank you momma."
 
"You're welcome babies." I kissed their foreheads.
 
After snapping several pictures, the girls instantly went to the bouncy house. I took several pictures of the decor as guest finally started to arrive. The guest list was small: Julia, Loren and her two kids Aaron and Nema, the ladies we met at the park Sharon and Alex and their kids Josh and Kevy. My old co-worker at the elementary school I taught at Genevieve came with her three kids Chelsey, Claire and Carlton. There were even unexpected guests like Joey and Steven. Julia avoided Steven as if he was plague, while he fussed over her in the most endearing way. I was happy that she told him about the pregnancy and even more thrilled they agreed to keep it. The party was in full swing, music, children playing, laughing and games. I worked hard to capture every moment of the girls during their special day. I was so wrapped up in all the action it wasn't until I heard the doorbell that I realized Mason and Caleb hadn't arrived yet. Royce was still tending to the grill with Steven by his side and I quickly dashed to the front door. The first person that caught my eyes was Mason. He wore a white collar shirt with khaki pants. My brows lifted high at the sight of his white cocomelon sneakers.
 
"Wow." I said taking in his appearance.
 
"I know I know, I look hot." He grinned.
 
I rolled my eyes, "Come on in. Caleb you're looking party ready yourself." I complimented and he winked. Caleb wore a blue buttoned-down top with the sleeves pulled up to his elbows. Like Mason he wore a khaki pants with sneakers except his sneakers wasn't matching the theme, however he was wearing a party hat with the theme. Mason handed me the birthday cake and they proceeded to lift a huge gift inside the house. My mouth fell open because the box was big as my small frame.
 
"What the hell is that?" I asked.
 
"The reason for our tardiness." Caleb laughed.
 
"You didn't think we would come without gifts did you?" Mason asked.
 
"I mean no, but I didn't expect a gift for a giant either."
 
"Well I wanted something special." Mason shrugged.
 
"Notice my gifts can be held in one hand." Caleb said holding out a bag with to small gifts.
 
"Well, thanks a lot for the cake, everyone is out back. You can probably just leave this gift here, but the small ones can join the rest in the back." I said.
 
I guided the guys through the kitchen and into the back yard. My nerves spiked when we stepped onto the lawn and I noticed Royce's eyes squinted as his back straightened.
 
Ignoring his reaction, I called out to the girls.
"Girls, look who is here! It's Mason and Caleb." I said.
 
The girls were preoccupied in the bouncy house but once they spotted the guys, they immediately slid out of it and came running. I don't know what I expected but this wasn't it. Peppa ran straight into a surprised Mason and Lily went to Caleb. They were both lifted instantly, and they wrapped their little arms around their necks. To say Mason was moved would be an understatement.
 
"Oh, wow I wasn’t expecting this reaction." Mason laughed.
 
"They are very excited today." I smiled.
 
"Happy Birthday girls." Mason said looking between them.
 
"Yea happy birthday, you guys look so great." Caleb said.
 
"Thank you." The girls said in unison grinning.
 
"How old are you guys now."
 
"Two!" They shouted holding up their fingers.
 
"Oh wow! You're a whole two fingers!" Mason gasped dramatically.
 
"We even brought gifts." Caleb held up the bags.
 
"Yay!" The girls clapped.
 
"You can put them over there on the table." I said to Caleb.
 
Lily reached out towards Mason, surprised he took her into his free arm. Caleb carried the gifts to the table where Cat stood and gave her a kiss on the cheek in greeting, I beamed.
 
"The party looks great Ava." Mason said.
 
"Thank you. I did my best."
 
"You did wonderful." He said. He looked at the girls, "Are you having fun? Mommy threw a great party didn't she."
 
"Yes!" They giggled.
 
"Momma, got candies, balloons, presents and....and... a bouncy house!" Peppa squealed pointing out everything.
 
I laughed as Mason eyes doubled in size again at her enthusiasm.
"Yea, she's beyond hyper today." I said
 
"That's great honey."
 
Lily gasped suddenly and pointing at Mason's shoes.
"Mommy, Maston got Cocomelon shoes! Peppa look!"
 
The girls were now totally excited about Mason shoes and he placed them on their feet to get a closer look. I was completely aware of most of the guest starring at the exchange and just how I noticed my mother's happy smile, I noticed Royce's frown.
 
"There is someone I want you to meet. Girls you can go back to the Bouncy house, Mason will show you his shoes later." I said.
 
"Okay mommy." Lily said taking Peppa's hand and leading her away.
 
Mason straightened and we quickly headed towards Royce by grill. One warning look from me and his features smoothed out instantly.
 
"Mason, this is my boyfriend Royce. Royce this is Mason Reynolds." I said.
 
Mason smiled and stretched out his hand instantly, a moment of hesitation and Royce did the same.
 
"It's a pleasure to finally meet you Royce. I owe you quite a lot."
 
"Uh, thanks, nice to meet you too." Royce said.
 
Thankfully, before the conversation can turn awkward my mother interfered pulling Mason into a hug.
 
"So nice to see you again." She said.
 
"You too Amy." Mason smiled.
 
"You just saw him yesterday mother." I reminded.
 
"Ok and today is a new day." She said. I rolled my eyes.
 
Lily came running to our sides breathlessly.
"Mommy can we have presents now?" She asked.
 
"Not yet sweetie. How about some lunch? After we eat, you and Lily can cut your cake and open your presents." I said.
 
Lily nodded and headed back over to the other kids to play.
"So, Mason how long are you here for?" Royce asked.
 
"I'll be heading back to Seattle on Tuesday but I'm here to stay." Mason replied obviously hearing the double meaning in Royce's words.
 
"Well okay, let's pump this party up." I said trying to ease the tension.
 
Thankfully the party went on without a hinge. Although Mason pretty much stayed by my side, the girls or Caleb's, he was very chatty and engaging with all the guests. Joey took a liking to him no doubt familiar with his businesses while people like Sharon, Alex and Genevieve clung unto his every word like he was God. Cat wasted no time marking her territory with Caleb. The girls were sitting by me as we watched Caleb, Mason and Joey chat near the bouncy house.
 
"So, let me get this straight, Mason Reynolds is the girls’ father?" Genevieve asked. I nodded.
 
"So, you are sleeping with a millionaire and shacking up with Royce?" Sharon asked laughing.
 
I shook my head instantly, "it's not anything like that."
 
"Sure, it isn't." Alex said.
 
"I'm just surprised she kept it under wraps this long." Loren smirked.
 
"Who cares what's it like or how it happened. Ava made the best out of the situation and some things just happen unexpectedly." Julia said. I smiled, mood swings are definitely kicking in.
 
"What's gotten your panties in a knot?" Loren asked.
 
"We were only kidding. Ava know we don't mean any harm." Sharon replied looking towards me apologetically.
 
I waved them off with a hand, I know they were only teasing, and I don't entirely blame them, my situation is unique.
Soon it was time to cut the cake to the girls’ delight. They sat in their special thrones as we all gathered to sing and snap pictures of them with their beautiful cocomelon cake. Their eyes were bright with happiness and excitement over the attention and once again I am reminded why I would try to move heaven and earth for them. I was even moved by the looks on Mason's face throughout the day, his eyes bright, teary, wide grin and a face filled with pride. He too snapped multiple pictures of them wanting to capture everything, it was then I thought of the perfect gift for him tomorrow. After cutting the cake, I got the first slice of course, it was time to open gifts. The girls were beyond excited for this part of the day because they love getting new gifts. My mom got them Moana and Elsa dolls, Cat got them new outfits, Julia bought them a brand new painting set and soon it was time for Royce's gift. Royce told the girls to close their eyes and dashed inside to pull out their new gift, a trampoline. The girls’ eyes lit up at the sight of their new trampoline.
 
"Yay!!! Thank you Roy!" Lily said.
 
"Thank you wery much." Peppa grinned.
 
"You're welcome girls." He beamed with pride.
 
I noticed he kept glancing over to Mason who was simply smiling and snapping pictures of them while they jumped.
 
"Okay, it's my turn!" Caleb called out.
 
I helped the girls off their trampoline and guide them back to their little thrones. Caleb knelt to their feet and presented to them two small boxes. The girls eagerly ripped through the box and squealed in glee.
 
"It's cocomelon shoes!!" Lily screamed.
 
"Momma we got pretty shoes like Mathon!"
 
I smiled, "Yes you do babies. I don't know how since I couldn't find them." I laughed.
 
"I pulled a few strings." Caleb smirked.
 
"Thank you Cabeb." Peppa said.
 
"Thank you for our shoes." Lily replied.
 
"You're welcome sweethearts."
 
"Maston we got pretty shoes too." Lily said running to show Mason.
 
"I see that sweetie they're very pretty, want me to help you put them on?" He asked.
 
"Yes please." She said.
 
Mason and I quickly helped the girls with their sneakers which went perfect with their outfit. The girls danced around admiring their shoes and we continued snapping pictures.
 
"Okay girls, I have a gift for you too." Mason said.
 
At that the girls ran back to their seats eagerly as Mason and Caleb went inside to bring out his gift. I watched everyone eyes widened as they brought out the gift carefully and placing it in front of the girls.
 
"Wow, it's big mommy." Lily said.
 
"It's huge." Peppa grinned excitedly. She lifted her arms to mimick the size and I grinned. I love how they were extra talkative today.
 
"Yea, go ahead and open it." I said. I was even eager to see what it was. I quickly pressed record on my phone as they tag teamed to open the gift. I gasped as a kitchenette was quickly revealed. The girls were euphoric.
 
"Oh my god." I murmured.
 
"Momma!!! It's a KITCHEN!" Peppa shrieked happily.
 
I laughed as she started dancing around the box with Lily close to her side.
"Don't forget to say thank you." I reminded grinning.
 
The girls quickly ran into Mason arms, he was elated to pick them up and give them a little spin.
"Thank you, thank you." They giggled.
 
"You're very welcome." He grinned.
 
"What made you choose this gift and where did you even find one so big?" I asked. I had no doubt that this could not fit in the girls’ room what already had two cribs, toys chest, drawers and their little table and chairs. The kitchenette was complete with a fake stove, refrigerator, counter tops, sinks, pots, pans, and fake food. The details of it all was astounding and I never saw anything like it.
 
"My vendor shall remain nameless, but I do remember you saying that when they started walking, the kitchen was the hardest thing for you to keep them out of. So, I figured why not give them their very own kitchen."
 
"This is beautiful." My mom said circling the box.
 
"It's so detailed." Joey agreed.
 
"And all of the tools and pretend foods are big to avoid any choking hazards." Mason said.
 
"Thank you so much." I said already imagining the ways this can keep them busy.
 
The girls were still clinging onto his neck and he quickly set them down so they can finish look at the gift.
 
"I'll help you to reassemble the whole thing." Mason said.
 
"Thanks cause that's not my area of expertise." I laughed.
 
I noted the sour look on Royce's face but quickly brushed it off, I refuse to allow him to ruin this. The rest of the party went smoothly. While the girls continued to play while Mason and Caleb went into the house to set up their kitchenette in the living room. I decided it was best to put it there than squeezing it into their bedroom. Soon, the sun began to set, and the guests began to leave. Cat, Julia, my mom and Joey stuck around along with Mason and Caleb to help clean up. The girls still had a few unopened gifts and I packed them together. Mason and Caleb were finally done with the kitchenette and I went inside with the girls to check it out. I was beyond impress with the gift from the size being big enough for them to both play comfortably to the make-believe fire which was only a light on the stove and the oven, to the refrigerator, the microwave, the dishes and tools. It was indeed extraordinary.
 
"This is actually perfect Mason, thank you." I said.
 
Mason beamed, "It wasn't a problem at all."
 
Mason played with the girls while we all cleaned up the yard. By the time we were done it was almost completely dark. The table, chairs and bouncy house was secured to be picked up in the morning along with the tents, the yard was clean. Any leftover food was shared amongst everyone and the kitchen was spotless.
 
"Thanks for the help guys." I said to my mom.
 
"Not a problem. I'm working a double shift tomorrow so I will talk to you later." My mom said
 
"Okay mom, you and Joey drive safe." I said.
 
After my mom and Joey left, I noticed Julia grabbing her things to put in her car and I quickly walked out with Cat close behind.
 
"You gave Steven a hard time today." I noted.
 
"No, I didn't." Julia said.
 
"Girl you avoided that man like the bubonic plague, and he was still willing to water the grass you walked on." Cat said.
 
Julia sighed, "I'm just trying to wrap my head around this." She shrugged.
 
"Trust me, I understand but being surrounded by people who love and care for you is what you need at this time. Without you guys love and support I don't know how I would make it, so if Steven wants to be there let him." I said.
 
Julia nodded silently and I pulled her into a hug. "Thank you for coming today, I know it wasn't easy." I said.
 
"It's no problem, thank you too." She sighed.
 
We said our goodbyes and watched Julia left. Caleb came outside with a gentle smile and approached Cat.
 
"Are you working tomorrow?" Cat asked.
 
"Of course." He said.
 
"Damn, even on your birthday?" I asked.
 
Caleb shrugged, "Which reminds me, we're having a little gathering at my place tomorrow evening."
 
"Sounds nice."
 
"Emphasis on the little." Caleb laughed.
 
"Are the girls and I invited?" I asked.
 
"Duh, Mason and I wouldn't have it any other way." He winked.
 
"You're coming too right?" He asked Cat.
 
"Oh, you want me to?"
 
"Of course, I do."
 
"Well I'll be there." She smiled.
 
"You better be." Caleb grinned. He leaned over to place a kiss on Cat's cheek, and I had the pleasure of seeing her blush.
 
"I'll call you later," he said to Cat. "Mase let's gooo."
 
Mason came outside looking thrilled. He couldn't contain his big cheesy grin as he approached us.
 
"Should I be worried?" I asked jokingly.
 
"Not at all." He laughed. "I already said my goodbyes to the girls. Thanks so much for allowing me to have this moment."
 
"You have every right to those moments." I said.
 
"Oh, we're having a gathering tomorrow at seven." Mason said.
 
"Already told them." Caleb replied.
 
"Don't worry we'll be there." I assured him.
 
"Great, we better get going, Catherine it was a pleasure meeting you." Mason said.
 
"Thank you, you also."
 
"You guys drive careful." I said.
 
The guys gave us a little wave and walked over to their car. I wondered for a moment how they got the girls gift to fit so well.
 
"I like him." Cat said suddenly.
 
"I know you do. I want you to be happy."
 
"I'm talking about Mason."
 
"Oh, you do?" I asked.
 
Cat nodded watching them from afar, "He's not what I expected, he's down to earth and gentle. He's going to be a great father." She murmured.
 
"That's all I can ask for." Isn't that what all parents want? For their children to grow up healthy knowing that they are loved and taken care of?
 
"Hey missy," Caleb called out, "I'm waiting for you to get in your car." He said. They were already in their car and Caleb stuck his head out of the window.
 
"Alright go, we'll talk tomorrow." I chuckled.
 
Cat rolled her eyes and leaned in to give me hug. Even though she wouldn't admit it, I can tell she was pleased by his actions. I waved them off and finally headed inside, putting an end to today's event. Royce was sitting in the living room watching the girls play quietly.
 
"Are you okay?" I asked.
 
He remained silent for a moment before standing. "Let's get the girls ready for bed, it's been a long day." He said.
 
I allowed the conversation to drop for now as we quickly prepared the girls for bed. It took a lot of coaxing with promises that they will play with their kitchenette tomorrow, for them to let it go. We managed to give them a bath and put them to bed before cleaning ourselves up also. When I came out of the shower, Royce was sitting on his bed with his laptop.
 
"You didn't answer me." I reminded him.
 
"I'm fine Ava." He said.
 
"I don't believe that."
 
Royce shook his head, "I've been there their whole lives, how can his gift be better than mines?"
 
"What are you on about?" I asked shocked.
 
"A kitchenette Ava. Lily and Peppa jump up and down on our beds and their cribs daily. A trampoline was a perfect gift for them. Mr. perfect swooped in and got them something even better, I mean the guy wore cocomelon shoes for crying out loud."
 
"Royce, this isn't a competition." I scolded.
 
"Isn't it?"
 
"Of course, it isn't! The girls love you and they love your gift you know that. Stop making everything some kind of match."
 
"What did you expect? I can't shove everything I'm feeling down in a couple of days"
 
"Neither years apparently." I replied.
 
Royce eyes found mines, "Look, this is new territory for us, especially me. I can't just pretend like I'm okay with this. He's only been here for a few days and already he has you girls hooked."
 
"Royce...."
 
"It's true, do not tell me that it isn't."
 
"It's not Royce. Do you want me to say that I hate him because I don't, I don't hate him. He has made the decision to accept his children, to be there when so many men haven’t. I don't hate him, I love that he is willing to surround Lily and Peppa with love cause no matter what, love is what they need."
 
The room was silent for a moment as we stared at each other.
 
"Do you love me?" He asked suddenly.

I moved to stand in front of him, taking his laptop out of his hands and placing mines on either side of his face.
"You know I do." I said.
 
"I'm trying." He whispered sullenly, his dark eyes in anguish.
 
"I know you are." I sighed gently before placing my forehead against his.