Page 262 of The Baby Twist

“Knew there was something about you that I couldn’t control!” I shouted.

“You were trying to control me?” Her brows furrowed.

“No, Marley. Not you. The feelings that I felt for you. I wanted to distance myself because it was happening. That’s why I didn’t call you. I couldn’t let it happen.”

“Charlie.” She walked over and placed her hand on my back.

“I was scared enough, and then you burst in here and tell me you're pregnant and that I’m the father. After your doctor’s appointment today, I met with my realtor, Grant, and looked at an apartment that I was going to buy for you and the twins. But I couldn't do it as I stood inside that apartment.”

“First of all, I can’t believe you did that, and second, why?”

“Because you belong here with me. You and our children belong here with me, in this penthouse.”

“And if I don’t want to stay here?”

“You don’t have a choice. You’re not going anywhere. Listen, Marley.” I held her hand and led her to the bed, where we sat down. “I’m going to ask you something and need an honest answer.”

“Okay.”

“Do you have feelings for me?”

She stared into my eyes, and I could see the tears fill inside hers. “I’m not good at this kind of stuff, Charlie.”

“Neither am I. Answer my question.”

“Ye—Ye—” Her bottom lip trembled. “Yes.”

I inhaled a sharp breath, wrapped my arms around her, and pulled her into me.

“How could you do this to me?” she asked.

“Do what to you?” I softly stroked the back of her head.

“Make me admit it out loud?”

I let out a light chuckle. “If I had to, then so did you.”

She broke our embrace. “I don’t understand why you’re so angry that you couldn’t get a hold of me.”

“It all stems from my parent’s death. I can’t control what happens out there in the world, and I hate it. I was worried something bad happened to you and the twins. Call me overprotective. I don’t care. It’s something I need to work on.”

“I can maybe help you with that.” She smiled, bringing her hand to my cheek. “So now what?”

“I think we’re on the same page as far as feelings go for each other, and we should take it slow and one day at a time,” I said, softly stroking her hair. “I know you don’t believe in love after your parents, but we’re our own people, Marley. You need to get over it, as do I. Maybe we can help each other see the brighter side.”

“You think?” she asked.

“Yeah. I do.” I smiled as my lips brushed against hers. “Are you going to share your location with me?”

“Are you?” Her brow arched.

“You bet.” A grin crossed my lips. “I have nothing to hide.”

“And neither do I. So, are we just going to sit here all night, or are you going to fuck me senseless after we just poured our feelings out to each other?”

“I love it when you talk dirty.” I pushed her down on the bed and kissed her passionately.

Marley