Page 62 of Tangled Desires

“I told you, we can adjust your hours,” Bradley says. “You need time to settle.”

Sebastian shakes his head. “Nah, the station needs me. We’re already short-staffed, even with Lucy and Craig. I can’t leave you all in a bind.”

“How long has he been with you now?” I ask.

“About a month. We’re getting to know each other.” Sebastian shrugs. I nod, smiling softly.

“Look, we’ll figure it out,” Bradley insists, his tone firm. “You can’t pour from an empty cup, Daniels. You need time to adjust. We’ll handle the shifts.”

“I know.” Sebastian sighs, rubbing his hair. “Thanks, man. I appreciate it, Mitchell.”

Teddy tugs on Sebastian’s hand, looking up at him with wide eyes. “When’s Mummy coming?” My heart breaks for him.

“Not sure, kiddo, but it’s just you and me for now. How’s that sound?”

Teddy shrugs at his father, then suddenly wraps his arms around me in a quick hug. “Oh!” I say, surprised, but hug him back. “Thanks, Teddy.”

Sebastian glances at me curiously. “Teddy?”

“Yeah?” the little boy says, looking up.

“Oh, he told me that’s his name. Or what… his mum used to call him,” I explain.

“Well, champ, I think Teddy’s the best name,” Sebastian says.

I crouch down again, my dress pooling around me, mindful of my growing belly as I lean closer to Teddy. “Hey,” I say softly. “Did you know that, when I was little, my dad looked after me, too? He’s the best dad ever. You know what, Teddy?”

“What?” he asks, eyes wide.

“Your dad’s gonna look after you now, too. He’s gonna be the best dad ever.”

Sebastian starts to protest, “Oh, I don’t know about—” Ishhhim quietly.

“Okay,” Teddy says, a grin spreading, his small shoulders relaxing as if my words are enough to steady his little world. Something shifts in me, unspoken but undeniable, as his tiny smile lingers. Months ago, this moment would have been unthinkable, my awkwardness around kids a barrier I couldn’t cross.

But now? The life moving inside me has swept that hesitation away, leaving nothing but ease.

Sebastian glances at me and mouths,thank you.It hangs between us, quiet but full. I nod, knowing it’s not just for Teddy—it’s for Sebastian, too.

Kicking my sneakers off at the door, I’m fully prepared for an empty house. But no, Harrison’s here—sprawled out on thecouch, hands behind his head, looking far too comfortable for someone who usually comes rolling in around four.

“Immyyy,” he drawls without even glancing up. “That you?”

“Nope,” I deadpan, dumping my bag on the bench.

“Come here!” he whines, dragging out the words in a way that should make my skin crawl but doesn’t. Damn him.

“For what?”

“So I can have a hug?” He’s looking at me like I’ve just denied him air to breathe.

I scoff. A hug? Who is this man, and what did he do with Harrison Price? He’s been weirdly clingy lately, and I’m still debating whether it’s hilarious or concerning. I’m not even sure when we moved past that push and pull stage, but now he’s way too comfortable. “No way.”

His pout is so exaggerated it’s cartoonish. “But I’m tired, and I want a cuddle. Joe let me off early. I’ve been here since two and I’m bored.”

I gape at him, trying not to laugh. “You’re tired? I was up all fucking night with a moving baby and your snoring.”

His eyebrows shoot up. “I do not snore.”