Strong (Book 2 in the No Control series)

The last three months of touring have brought us to a two week break, just in time to celebrate Ella’s first birthday. We’ve invited everyone close to us, to Italy. Seems only fitting to have her first birthday party at the same place she was conceived. At least that was Liam’s thought.
I have a million things to do today for the party. It won’t be one of those crazy, over the top kids parties. Just a fun, simple celebration.
Rosa and I are in the kitchen, preparing food, when Liam comes in with Ella.
“Can I help, Love?”
I pause what i’m doing, moving over to them. “You know what would really help? If you took Ella out for a couple hours.”
Liam smiles. “No problem, Babe.”
I give them both a kiss. “Thank you.”
After they’ve left, Rosa looks across the counter at me.
“You’re not feeling well, are you, Liz?”
“I’m fine, Rosa.”
“You might be able to fool Liam, but you can’t fool me my amico.”
“Rosa, please.”
Antonio comes in then, saving me from any further discussion.

When Rosa and I have finished the food, I take a few moments to rest.
Just as I’m walking out the back door, the doorbell rings. Answering it, I find Karen and Geoff.
Karen comes with me to find Liam and Ella. We try a couple spots I think they might be, finally finding them at the gazebo. I put my finger to my lips, letting Karen know to be quiet. We stand back watching Liam and Ella. They are having a tea party in the gazebo.
Apparently Ella’s favorite stuffed animals have been invited as well. Ella’s rattling off all her new words, she has quite the vocabulary. Her adorable English accent already evident.
We can hear Liam having conversations with the stuffed animals, as Ella giggles. Sipping his pretend tea, with his pinky out of course.
I swear, my heart could literally burst, watching Liam being so sweet, so perfect with Ella. Every little girl deserves a father like him.
“He’s so adorable with her.” Karen whispers.
I smile. “He truly is the most amazing father.”
“Shall we join them?” Karen suggests.
As we near the gazebo, Ella shrieks when she sees Granny. Karen picks her up, giving her a big hug and kiss.
I come up behind Liam, putting my hands on his shoulders.
“Are we invited?” I ask.
Liam shakes his head. “I don’t know, the guest list is pretty exclusive.”
“I’ll take Ella back to the house to see Grandad.” Karen offers.
“She’s overdue for a nap.” I say.
“I’ll take care of it, you two take your time.”
Ella gives us both a kiss before going with her Granny.
I lean down, whispering in Liam’s ear. “You know, you being such a good dad, is extremely sexy.”
He stands, putting his arms around my waist. “Oh, really?”
I grin. “Yes, very.”
His smirk softens. “I love you, Beautiful.”
I snake my hands up his chest, locking them around the back of his neck. “I love you more, Handsome.”
Pulling me closer, he whispers in my ear. “I love you most.”
The tears slip from my eyes.
He pulls back. “Are you ok, Love?”
“Sometimes, I just get overwhelmed by how much I love you.”
He grins. “Me as well, Beautiful.”

Notes