The Ties That Bind

chapter 16

o l i v i a

"Damn," Parker whistles. "My girl can pull off cute and sexy."

I know for a fact he's just being sweet because I'm in sweatpants and a hoodie, my go-to outfit before any photo shoot. "Is that so?" I look over at him from the passenger's seat of his car.

"Mhm." He gives me another once over and smirks.

This is the first time we've been alone since his parents surprised us. They stayed in Parker's guest room for two days, before flying back to Seattle. While I didn't get to spend much time with them because of my meetings and shoots, Jeanine gave me lots of insightful details about pregnancy and what to expect. She even told me funny, embarrassing stories about Parker. I've been sworn to secrecy, so I can't tell anyone else.

The Baylor's are the epitome of what a family should be: loving, caring, and supportive. Jeanine and Will did such a wonderful job parenting Parker, it's no wonder he's such a gentleman. They certainly set the standard high for parenting. Parker will undoubtedly meet those expectations, and I can only hope I will, too.

According to Parker, his family absolutely adores me. Which is really surprising, considering my own parents hardly even care about me. Sad, but true. Anyway, I'm so relieved they don't view me as some whore that ruined Parker's NHL career. Certainly, that was not my intention.

They see the real connection we share. Something that's hard to describe and understand, but so pure and unadulterated. I appreciate their continuous support and endless love that they extended toward me, which is something I rarely get from my own family.

I don't even realize the car is parked, until the ignition is turned off. "Ready to go in?" Parker asks. I smile at him and nod.

He comes around the car and opens the passenger's door for me. "Let's go, Golden Babe." I will never get tired of hearing that nickname.

"Thank you, kind sir." I grab hold of Parker's toned arms. My man is built.

We walk toward the entrance of this old castle-looking building. "I'm excited to see you in action, again."

Since Parker doesn't haven practice until later this afternoon, I invited him to shoot with Gucci for their "Royal" campaign. Alessandro Michele, the creative designer, is a huge fan of the New York Blaze, so I thought I'd surprise him.

I love that Parker and I get to see firsthand what each other's lives are like. Having the opportunity to immerse in the other's passions have bonded us closer together. We might not have our entire lives figured out—more specifically the baby part—but at least we have each other.

When we enter the building, I immediately take notice of the vintage chairs, the huge chandeliers dangling from the ceiling, and the familiar scent of hairspray.

"There she is!" Alessandro Michele walks over to me. "You are stunning as ever, my dear." He kisses me on the cheek, and I can feel Parker tense. Oh boy, he's about to feel really silly in a few seconds.

"OLIVIA! You didn't tell me you were bringing along Parker Baylor." Alessandro licks his lips as he takes in Parker's chiseled features and firm body.

"Surprise!" I laugh.

"And this is why you're one of my favorite models ever." He smiles at me. "Why don't you go to hair and makeup, while I show your boyfriend around?"

I stifle a giggle. "Of course." I look at Parker and his face reads pure confusion. I stand on my tippy toes, so I can whisper in his ear. "Don't worry, he's already taken."