Breaking Free (Tom Holland) Book Two

BFB2 Chapter 3

Waking up from that nap had me feeling like I had slept for two years. I hadn't realized just how anxious I was about traveling to another country and meeting my first boyfriend's family until I had collapsed onto my new bed and fallen into a deep sleep. I hadn't even had a chance to shower. Now, as I sat up in an unfamiliar space, I regretted that decision.

The room I was staying in was tastefully decorated. A large four poster bed stood front and center as soon as you walked into the room. It sat against the back wall and was framed by two dark wood end tables. A large armoire stood guard against the eastern wall while the western wall housed a small vanity table and the entrance to the bathroom. I climbed out of bed and hoisted my suitcase onto my bed. I found all of my toiletries as well as a change of clothes. Then I headed into the bathroom to shower. I was surprised to find that the bathroom was connected to another room. I prayed that I didn't have to share a bathroom with one of Tom's brothers.

Washing all of the dirt and grime from my journey was cathartic. I made sure to scrub each body part at least three times. When I was finally done I stepped out of the shower and dried off. Then I slathered myself in my sweet scented lotion and got dressed.

The house was quiet as I exited my room. I felt like an intruder as I snuck my way down the stairs. Then, like a wave of relief, I heard Nikki humming quietly in the kitchen. She wasn't cooking but instead was leaning against the stove reading a book. The smells coming from the oven clearly demonstrated that she had something delicious brewing within. When she heard me come around the corner she put her book down and smiled.

"There she is! Did you have a pleasant nap?"

"I did. Thank you." I sat down at the white wood kitchen table and looked around. I hadn't really gotten the chance to take it all in due to the chaos and the nervousness. The walls were painted a soft baby blue. The light that spilled in from the many windows reflected invitingly off of the walls and made the whole room appear brighter than it was. The countertops and cabinets were all white with brushed black knobs. The stainless steel appliances stood proudly upon the black and white tiled floor.

"The boys ran to the store to grab some groceries. They should be back any minute now," Nikki mentioned snapping me out of my own head. I nodded in understanding. Nikki flitted over to the fridge and threw it open before asking, "Are you hungry? Thirsty?"

"I'm a little thirsty," I replied.

Nikki opened the fridge and began rummaging around in it. "What would you like? We have juice and water. I can also make you a cup of tea if you'd like."

"Water is fine," I replied.

The sound of a car pulling into the driveway alerted me to the boy's return. A loud bark rang through the air as Nikki set my cup in front of me. Before I could stop myself I got up and ran to the front door. Tessa squeezed through Harry's legs and came bounding inside. She paused for a split second before rushing forward and tackling me to the ground. My face became covered in slobber as I recieved a copious amount of kisses. Tom whistled to get her off of me. I pouted as she went to see what her dad wanted.

"What'd you do that for?" I whined.

Tom gave me his devilish grin. "Fine then. Tessa go say hello."

Tessa wasted no time. Within seconds she was back to smothering me with kisses. I allowed myself to be completely taken over by Tessa's love. Eventually she satisfied her need for affection and climbed off of me. I got up and brushed some of the dog hair off of myself. Then I headed into the living room where Tom was with his brothers.

"She finally released you I see," Tom commented as he pulled me into his lap.

I laughed as his brothers all made various faces of disgust. "How long are you guys staying here again?" Patrick wondered.

I cocked my head to the side in question. "What do you mean?" I asked.

Tom shot his brother a look. "I hadn't told her about that," he hissed. Then to me he said, "I got us a condo to stay in. After all, it'll be near impossible for us to stay here with Zac and Aiden once they arrive."

"And when are we doing this?" I questioned.

"Tomorrow," he replied sheepishly.

"That's why we're celebrating your arrival tonight," Nikki exclaimed as she suddenly appeared in the living room. She startled me so much I jumped. Tom wrapped his arms tighter around my waist as he buried his face in my back. I could feel his shoulders shaking with laughter. I made a mental note to kill him later.

It felt good to be welcomed so openly by Tom's family. I quickly learned that the party was a welcome from more than just their household. Friends, family, and neighbors all came endlessly to meet me. I throughly enjoyed meeting each and every one of them. Still, it was rather exhausting. By the end of the night I was ready to pass out. Tom recognized the tired look in my eyes and announced I was going to bed. The partygoers all wished me a good night as Tom led me out of the backyard and into the house.

When we got to my room Tom gave me a kiss on my forehead before saying, "Get some rest. We have a big day ahead of us tomorrow."

"Is this whole trip going to be full of surprises?" I questioned.

A wide grin spread across Tom's face. "It wouldn't be a good holiday without a few surprises."

A/N: I'M BACK! Seriously though, sorry for disappearing on you guys for a minute there. But now that I'm over my pregnancy-induced writer's block I'm back with a vengeance. Chapter 4 is half written. It should be out sometime next week. Once again, thanks for sticking with me! ❤