He threw a napkin at her, making her giggle. His mom just shook her head but said nothing. He was lucky to have a family, warts and all. Mia had grown up so alone and he hated that. He wanted to spoil her rotten if she would let him, make her part of his family. She deserved that, too.
* * * *
Mia sniffed into a napkin. The wedding was beautiful and the vows made her cry. When Lincoln kissed his bride, everyone cheered. Why did she feel so weepy? It had to be the damn hormones making her feel so unsettled. She and Abel were on good terms now. He was kind and gentle. He teased her, made her laugh as any friend would. Just what she asked for, so why did she want more? He went to the doctor with her and made it clear he was the father of her baby. She was happy he wanted to be involved. He had come by her house last night and told her his family now knew and they were all thrilled about the new upcoming Ramirez family member. She was relieved. She was scared they would hate her, especially his mom. She had her eyes set on a woman perfect for Abel and it was not Mia. Not that Mia had any intention of marrying Abel. If things had been different, she would want a marriage just like this one. The newly married couple walked down the church aisle so obviously in love and glowing with joy that every person got tears in their eyes. Mia stepped out of the pew once it was clear. She heard her name being called. Abel looked so handsome in his dark suit with a red rose on his lapel. His shaggy hair was ruthlessly gelled back neatly and she wanted to undo it.
“You riding to the hall with me?” He grinned.
Mia nodded, ignoring the flutters in her stomach, and the heat between her thighs. Melanie had picked her up early this morning so they could decorate the hall. “I think Lily and Melanie went ahead to make sure things were going smoothly for dinner.”
He put an arm around her shoulder and pulled her close just as if they were a couple. He kissed the top of her head affectionately. She felt all warm and gooey inside. “Good, I am starving. All this work made me hungry.”
“What work? You stood there and handed your brother a ring.” Mia laughed, walking outside into the cold air. People were talking and some were leaving, heading for the reception. There was a very light film of snow covering the steps and ground. She looked down at her heels and frowned. “Not good shoes to wear today.”
Abel swooped her up in his arms, making her scream. He carried her down the church steps so easily. “Abel. I’m too heavy.”
“You are too light. I am going to make sure you eat tonight. No excuses, Mia.” His voice was firm.
“Yes, sir.” She could see people looking at them with curiosity. She didn’t show yet, but what would people think once she did? This was a small town and gossip spread like wildfire.
Would they hate her for not doing the right thing? She didn’t want a marriage out of obligation or duty. If Abel loved her, she’d leave skid marks on the way to the altar.
* * * *
“I love this stuff. What is it called again?” Mia asked Abel, savoring the spicy dish.
He looked down at the chicken covered in brown sauce. “Mole’. It’s a tradition to have at weddings. My mom made enough to feed an army.”
“Mmm.” She took another bite, looking for Becky. She had told Becky she would sit with her and her book club friends, but Abel had practically kidnapped her and found them a small table in a dimly lit corner. He had already finished his plate and was saying he was going back for seconds.
“You have sauce on your chin.” He took a napkin and wiped her chin for her. Mia set her fork down, feeling her cheeks heat up. “Sorry. I am eating too fast. I overslept and skipped breakfast. Melanie was waiting for me.”
He gave her the look that usually followed a lecture. “Mia. You and the baby both need to eat. You lost five pounds.”
“I know.” She picked up her fork and continued to eat. Soft instrumental music played over the loud speakers as dinner was served. The hall was simply decorated, but still looked classy. The hall was filled with family and friends. Jessy and Lincoln sat center of attention at a long table where Abel should be sitting.
“Is something bothering you?” He read her easily and she hated it.
“I guess I was feeling nervous about today. I was afraid your family wouldn’t like me for being pregnant. I am afraid people will find out and talk about me. In New York it wouldn’t even be a thing, but Becky says most people here are traditional and don’t like unwed couples with children.” Her words came out rushed.
Abel grabbed her chin and tilted her face toward him. His expression was serious. “I don’t care what people think and you shouldn’t either, Mia. We are both thrilled to be parents. My family likes you and knows our break up was my fault. My mom might try to nag you into marrying me tonight, but she does it out of love. She thinks you are too sweet and kind for an old grouch like me.” He winked teasingly.
“I’m positive she didn’t say that. She thinks the world of her babies as she calls you all.” Mia giggled, knowing he was trying to cheer her up. Why did he have to be such a nice man? He’d be easier to dislike if he wasn’t. “She brags about your high school football record all the time. She thinks Melanie could be a famous fashion designer, but she doesn’t want her only daughter away from home. She says Lincoln could run for mayor.”
“What? Why can’t I be mayor? Lincoln is not the most patient person,” he grumbled. “I’m the elected official in the family.”
Mia laughed at his outrage. She wanted to soothe his wrinkled brow and kiss him until he was happy again. Geez, she had it bad and all he felt was responsible for her and the baby. “Oh and you are so easy going and mellow?”
“Yes.” He watched her finish her food and nodded with satisfaction.
“Oh, there you are.” A tall, thin woman with dark hair came up to their table. Her hair was twisted up in a fancy hairdo with curls hanging down. Mia recognized her from the pizzeria. Jane Lopez. She was so well put together and sophisticated, all the things Mia wasn’t. Her green dress was silky and expensive looking. Her jewelry looked real, not fake like Mia’s. “Why are you hiding back here? Your mother is looking for you, Abel.”
“I’m sitting with Mia.” He rolled his eyes at Jane. “Mom knows where I’m at, Jane.”
Jane gave her a look and deemed her unimportant. “You’re the coffee girl, Mary. I am sure your aunt is looking for you, too.”
Mia wasn’t sure how to respond. She realized Abel did need to mingle with his family and friends and not make sure she ate. He was being the responsible man again and that took out some of the joy at his attention she had been feeling just a minute ago. Abel had the ability to make her feel special and like she was the only one. She stood up, feeling embarrassed. “Thanks for keeping me company, Abel. I better go find Becky. She is saving a seat for me.”
“But, Mia—” He started to say standing up, too. Jane grabbed his arm. “Let her go. You promised me a dance remember?”