I opened the door to see Maura. She gave me a big hug before picking up my hand. I was confused until I saw her looking at the ring on my finger.
"Good. If you didn't accept, you were going to get an earful from me."
I chuckled because I knew Maura didn't have a single mean bone in her body unless someone was hurting her boys. Naturally she doesn't have to worry much about Greg anymore since he got married to a lovely girl. But Ni is a little more delicate and I know she is incredibly protective over him.
But so am I and I really hope she knows that. I worry that part of her probably hates me for leaving. Before I took her to Ella, I just had to clear the air.
"Maura, I hope you'll find a way to forgive me for what I did to Niall. I didn't mean to hurt him, I was just scared and I know you probably hate me..."
She cut me off, "Oh Hadley I could never hate you. Not with the way Niall's whole countenance lights up when someone even mentions your name. I've never seen him so happy and I know you would never intentionally hurt Niall because of how much you care about him. I couldn't ask for a better daughter in law."
I was too choked up to speak. "Really?" I managed to ask.
"Absolutely. Now you have fun on your date tonight and don't worry about little Ella, she'll be just fine."
"You don't happen to know what we are doing for the date do you?"
She smiled, "I've been told to keep my lips sealed."
I sighed and accepted my fate. I led her into where Niall was playing with Ella. He was tickling her and she was giggling hysterically. His face was just lit up like he would be happy for the rest of his life. I looked at Maura and both of us were just beaming while looking at Niall and how much he loves his little girl. I hate to break it up so I didn't but Maura did. She picked up the bag I had packed of things Ella would need and went over to Ella and picked her up. Niall's face fell and it was really sad to see but it made me fall even harder for him. His mother whispered in his ear and he blushed before nodding like he was agreeing with whatever she said. She left and soon after, El, Perrie and Candee showed up to take me away and get me all done up for the date. I just wish I knew what I was getting all dolled up for exactly. But I trust Niall and I know it will take my breath away whatever it is.