Chapter 69
RAINA
Every day, I stayed by Liam’s side, watching over him, speaking softly as he recovered. And every day, Nathan was there too, a constant presence that steadied me when everything else felt overwhelming. Letting me know that he was here to stay.
One afternoon, as Liam doard peacefully, Nathan reached for my hand. His touch was gentle, almost hesitant, like he was asking for permission.
“You’ve been running on lumes,” he said softly, his thumb brushing over my knuckles. “I don’t think you’ve stopped to breathe in weeks.
despite my exhaustion. “Mothers don’t get breaks,” I said, trying to lighten the mood.
I glanced up at him, a small smile tugging at my lips de
He didn’t laugh. His expression was serious, his dark eyes boring into mine. “I’m not just talking about today, Raina. I see how much you carry—your kids, your past, even the guilt that shouldn’t even be yours to bear.”
I blinked, caught off guard by the weight of his words.
“I care about you,” he continued, his voice steady “More than anything else going on around us. And I know your life is complicated–hell, mine isn’t exactly simple either–but I’m here, Rains. I’m not going anywhere.”
The sincerity in his tone sent my heart racing.
He exhaled slowly, like he was gathering his courage. “I want to make my intentions clear. I don’t just want to be the guy who hangs around when things are hard. I want to be the man in your life. I want to date you, pursue you–be with you!!
I stared at him, the weight of his confession hitting me like a tidal wave. My pulse thundered in my ears, but somehow, I managed to nod. “Okay,” I whispered, my voice shaky bot sure.
‘s lips c
Nathan’s
curved into a slow smile, one that lit up his entire face. “You won’t regret this,” he said, his voice filled with quiet determination.
And just like that, I had a boyfriend
Aman I could finally call mine, and Nathan seemed determined to prove just how much he wanted me in his life. Every day, he found ways to show me
his devotion
Not that it erased the fear lingering deep within me I’d once thought life with Alex was perfect too. In the beginning, he’d been charming, attentive, and everything I thought I wanted in a partner. But those illusions had shattered quickly, leaving me to grapple with the reality of who flex really was–and the worst mistake I’d ever made in marrying him.
I didn’t know much about Nathan enough to youch that he was nothing like Alex I couldn’t help but notice the similarities that sent warning bells. ringing in the back of my mind.
His protective side? Alex had been like that too when we first met–possessive even, though I hadn’t recognized it for what it was at the time. And the way Nathan stared at me, like I was the only person in the room, could almost make me forget to keep my guard up.
Almost.
I wasn’t going to stop myself from enjoying this ride. I deserved happiness, and Nathan seemed genuine in his intentions. But I vowed to bolt at the first sign of red flags. I would never make the same mistake twice–post because I wanted true love
I pushed the door to Liam’s room open, taking in the space I’d spent the past week preparing Over the days, I’d made sure the Housekeeper followed every instruction to the letter. Toys were neatly arranged on the shelves, colorful and inviting. The walls were adorned with decals of Liam’s favorite characters, and a soft blue comforter covered the bed, waiting to wrap him up in warmth and comfort.
Ava had been just as excited as I was. Our conversation about Liam’s arrival had gone surprisingly well. She’d asked thoughtful questions, her little face lighting up every time I explained how she could help welcome her brother. It warmed my heart to see her so involved, so ready to share her world with
It was safe to say everyone was excited for Liam’s homecoming, but none more than Ava. She’d been the only child in the house for so long, often playing on her own or shadowing me when I was home. Now, with her brother coming, she wouldn’t have to feel so alone. She’d have a playmate, a partner in her little adventures..
The thought made me smile, already imagining the laughter that would soon fill the room. I turned to see Ava came hounding in, her arms full of toys and her face lit up with excitement,
“Mommy, can we keep these here for Liam?” she asked, her voice bright and eager.
I smiled, kneeling down beside her. “Of course we can, sweetheart. He’s going to love playing with you.”
Together, we set up the toys, Ava chatting excitedly about all the games she planned to play with her brother. Her joy was Infectious, and for a moment, 1
+25 Bonus
allowed myself to feel hopeful about the future.
When we went downstairs, Ava tugged on my hand, her eyes bright with excitement. “Is Liam coming home today, Mommy?” she asked, clutching a small stuffed animal she had picked out for him.
D
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