Page 61 of Manny's Surprise Baby

I tensed my jaw. “I’m glad you’re back. I was worried.”

“You don’t have to worry about me just because I leave the house.”

I frowned. “You were really sick last night. Of course I was concerned.”

“Well, I’m… I’m better now.” He moved to brush past me.

I resisted the urge to grab his arm and keep him near me. It wasn’t easy, but I clenched my teeth and let him pass. I followed him into the kitchen, where I found him pouring himself a cup of coffee. “Did talking to Colin help?”

“Yes.”

I cleared my throat. “Did you guys talk about anything interesting?”

He glanced up under his brows. “Maybe.”

“Anything you’d like to share?”

“Not sure yet.” He chewed his lip.

Frustrated at how closed off he seemed, I said, “Well, get back to me, I guess.

He ignored my sarcasm. “I was surprised how easily you took to having Emily here in your home.”

“Were you?” His change of subject caught me off guard.

“Yes. I thought you would resent her at first.”

“Why?” I scowled.

“Because she’d cramp your playboy lifestyle.”

I rolled my eyes. “I see. Well, if she did, I don’t mind because she’s more important.”

“Wow. That remark was downright selfless.”

“Thanks.” I held his wary gaze stubbornly.

He put his hands on his hips. “Can I ask you something?”

“Yes.”

“Why… why did you claim me last night?” His face was pink.

“It was instinct. It felt right.”

“Do you regret it?”

I scowled. “Hell, no.”

He smiled, as if my vehement response surprised him. “I wasn’t sure if maybe you just got carried away by the passion of the moment.”

“I was in the moment, yes. But that’s not why I did it.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes.” I cleared my throat. “I claimed you because, while I don’t know what the hell is going on between you and me, I do know I don’t want anyone else to come sniffing around you.”

He narrowed his eyes. “Really? So it was a possessive thing?”