Kitchen Promises
Book 3
From Bestselling Author
Blurb
Nothing ever comes easy for Molly Woods.
Faced with past fears, heartache, & limits…
Can she make promises to the one man she can’t get enough of? Can she promise him
forever…?
With new obstacles, Molly must make a decision.
***
Drake Stagliano always gets what he wants.
But with a new threat, how far will he go to make sure Molly is his forever?
When new secrets are revealed, Drake must take matters into his own hands.
Can they make forever happen? Or will promises be made that can’t be kept…?
***
Copyright
Copyright © 2013 Brooke Cumberland
The Riverside Trilogy Book 3
Cover design by Steph’s Cover Design Literary Editor @ Rogena Mitchell-Jones
All rights reserved. No parts of the book may be used or reproduced in any matter without written permission from the author, except for inclusion of brief quotations in a review.
This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, establishments, organizations, and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously to give a sense of authenticity. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is
entirely coincidental.
This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This eBook may not be re-sold or given away to another person except when loaned out per Amazon’s lending program. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only,
DEDICATION
I am dedicating this book to all the stepparents out there!
It isn’t easy co-parenting someone else’s child—
emotionally, mentally, or physically. Being a stepparent means that you chose to love
someone else’s child as your own, and that is the true meaning of love. As a
stepmother to two boys, I understand the struggles of a blended family. So, this book
is for all of you out there!
* * *
It's not the blood you share that makes you a mother...It's the heart you share with one another. —Patty Rase Hopson
A healthy stepmother knows that some days she's a stagehand, some days she’s the leading lady, and some days she's the audience, and she plays each role with grace and style.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROLOGUE CHAPTER ONE CHAPTER TWO CHAPTER THREE
CHAPTER FOUR CHAPTER FIVE
CHAPTER SIX CHAPTER SEVEN
CHAPTER EIGHT CHAPTER NINE
CHAPTER TEN CHAPTER ELEVEN CHAPTER TWELVE CHAPTER THIRTEEN CHAPTER FOURTEEN
CHAPTER FIFTEEN CHAPTER SIXTEEN CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN CHAPTER NINETEEN
CHAPTER TWENTY EPILOGUE
Kitchen Promises BONUS SCENE
Books by Brooke Cumberland About the Author
Acknowledgement Schedule Signings
PROLOGUE
Molly
My mother used to tell me that there was no such thing as coincidences. Rather, everything happens for a reason…like some set up plan already made for us from the beginning. My mom wasn’t overly religious or anything, but she believed in God, and that he had a plan for each and every one of us. No matter how much you try to fight destiny, fate always comes back to bite us in the ass. Always.
I never once thought much about it until it knocked me right in the face. Or until he knocked on my door.
Stanley Webber.
The moment I saw Denny’s face…after seventeen years, I knew my mother was right. The so-called plan that was set up from the beginning…this could not be a coincidence. Rather, a smack across the face. My past stood right in front of me, waiting for me to deal with it after all this time. But I couldn’t. And I wouldn’t. I wasn’t going to give him the time of day.
Let’s not forget he just shoulder-patted my biological father…this was way beyond coincidences. This was someone way up somewhere having a good laugh at how unbelievably awkward this was. Fate, destiny, coincidence—whatever it was, could fuck off.
Given the circumstances, I wasn’t going to give Denny the pleasure of rattling me. Although, I originally believed he was behind the notes and paying Ms. Hernandez in the beginning, I would never trust him.
As I stood in front of them completely beside myself, I took Stella’s hand in mine and made way to the restroom. There was no way I would ever come clean to Mr. Webber either. My best option was to stay as far away as possible—from both of them.
Oh god—Drake. How would he handle the news? I’ve already learned what keeping secrets between us can do, so it’s not as if I wanted to go that route again. Drake meant too much to me, too much to Stella, and now—the father of our twins.
---<>---1
Molly
“Travis…why? Why did you pull the trigger? Why?” I stood in front of him, pleading for answers.
“I had to, Molly.” His voice is firm, his eyes dark.
“No…no, you didn’t. You were my friend.” I reach out to him, but my hand goes right through his transparent body.
“And I loved you, Molly. You didn’t love me.” I reach for him again, moving closer. “No, I didn’t. But what about Jacob?” He walks backwards…reaching for the gun that’s tucked in the back of his pants.
“Travis, don’t!” I screamed, but it was too late. The gun went off and everything went dark.
Dark…
“Travis! No!” I scream.
“Molly!” Drake shook me until my eyes opened. I looked around and saw I was in bed— sweating and crying. “Are you okay?” he asked, turning the bedside lamp on.
“Yeah, just another nightmare.” I rubbed my belly, soothing myself from the trauma I seemed to be reliving.
“I’ll get you some juice, baby.” Drake pecked me on the forehead, pulling the sheets back. I nodded, thankful for how attentive he had been the last four months. Being that some women show faster in their second pregnancies, and I just happen to be one of them, and the fact that I’m expecting twins, made me look six months pregnant already.
“Thanks, baby.”
As I watched him leave the room, I remembered the nightmare that I was having. They started two months ago out of nowhere. At first, I pegged them as part of being pregnant, but now it was just getting ridiculous. I thought after hearing how sick Travis was, it would give me closure— that it wasn’t my fault, and that I couldn’t have saved him—but it hadn’t. I still felt guilty…sad…and that I failed him as a friend. How did I not notice? How did I let him fall for me so hard that I never saw it coming? I knew the burning questions in my head were making me insane, but add the
hormones, mood-swings, and body aches—total hot mess.
I overanalyzed everything between Travis and me over the past year. We kept meeting in the oddest of places before he showed up at my internship. Then, in a heated moment, I gave in and
everyone—I should’ve known, but I was dumb, naïve, and made a bad choice—that now continues to haunt me in my sleep. Part of me knows why I kissed Travis that day. I was torn—I was in love with Drake, but there was chemistry between Travis and me. Before Drake, I hadn’t dated, or even kissed a man, in four years…then out of nowhere, two men fall for me. I was confused…
“Here you go, sweetie. I brought juice and cookies.” He smiled, handing me the glass. “Oh my god, Oreos! Are you trying to make me fatter? I can’t eat that crap!”
“Baby, I’m sorry. I thought you’d like a midnight snack to help you fall back asleep.” He jerked the bag of cookies back, looking like a scared puppy.
“No, the only thing that will help me sleep is getting Travis out of my damn head!” I snapped unwillingly.
I told Drake about the dreams since the first night I woke up screaming. Didn’t happen very often in the beginning, but now they seemed to be happening every few nights. It’s quite exhausting.
“Oh god,” I cried. “I’m so sorry I yelled like that.” I covered my face with my hands, letting the tears fall out. Ugh, I hated this part of pregnancy.
“It’s okay. Whatever you want, Molly. I’ll get it…or won’t get it…or whatever you need!” “You’re going to get sick of me, I just know it.”
If I weren’t a blubbering mess, even I’d want to laugh at myself. God, I couldn’t even control my damn emotions anymore.
I eventually fell back asleep in Drake’s comforting arms. No matter how many outbursts I had, he never left my side. If I thought Drake was overprotective before—I really hadn’t known how he would be when he found out I was carrying his child.
* * *
You know that moment when life feels frozen in time and nothing seems real? Or rather, you have an out of body experience, and it’s as if you were watching the moment happen from above?
That was exactly how I felt the moment my life changed. It was as if I were watching the whole thing instead of experiencing it first hand. It was as if it were in slow motion—happening right in front of me.
That was exactly how I felt the moment Drake kneeled in front of me. I hadn’t been prepared for this. One minute I’m peeing on a stick, finding out I’m pregnant, and the next—Drake’s proposing.
“Molly?” Drake smirked, still waiting for my answer. God, he looked so damn handsome. The way his hair rustled in the wind and his dark eyes looking hopeful up at me; he was
breathtaking. I still wondered why a man like him chased after a girl like me.
marry me—for me. He didn’t even know I was expecting yet, unlike the last time a man knelt in front of me. I knew Liam loved me, but we were young. We never would’ve been engaged had I not been pregnant with Stella.
My hand covered my mouth in shock, unable to answer him. The moment brought so many memories back, so many unwanted memories of Liam and then the pain rushed in—the pain of losing him—the pain of thinking I had lost Drake when he was shot.
Perhaps it was the news of finding out I was expecting, or the hormones, but I started crying uncontrollably. I was so embarrassed that I spun around so Drake wouldn’t see me.
I felt him come behind me. He wrapped his arms around my waist and nuzzled his nose into my neck.
“Baby, I’m sorry if I rushed—” His hands stopped on my stomach, feeling the bloat that was making my stomach swell already. I froze in place as his warm hands touched me, rubbing over my barely-there bump. His lips softly kissed under my ear and down my neck.
“I love you,” he whispered in my ear.
I slowly spun around and faced him. His expression was a mix of worry and lust. I smiled at him as I rubbed a hand on his cheek.
“Yes. I want to marry you.”
His eyes lit up as they searched mine. “Are you sure? I mean—”
I hated that I made him feel doubt with my mental breakdown. “I am so sure.” And I was. I had never wanted anything more. “I—I was just not expecting that.”
He nodded as if he understood and cupped my face with both hands. He leaned down and softly pecked my lips, bringing our foreheads together.
“I will do anything to make you happy, Future Mrs. Stagliano.” “Oh, I like the sound of that.”
“I’m glad.” He smiled with his hands still on my cheeks.
“I do have a confession,” I said softly. Before I could continue, a loud bang sounded in the sky, jerking my attention away from Drake. I glued my eyes above and saw three fireworks blasting in the air.
“Oh my god, what did you do?”
“Did you really think I’d propose to my girl without a dramatic grand finale?” Yeah, I should’ve figured.
“You never cease to amaze me.” I blushed, looking into his bright brown eyes that were no longer dark and intense like the first time I met him.
once more.
“There is something you should know, though.” I broke the kiss, chewing my bottom lip as the nerves overcame me. I planted my hand back on my stomach and looked down, hoping he’d see where I was leading the conversation.
“Getting cold feet already?” he teased nervously. I shook my head at him, moving back as I gave him a better view of what I was rubbing.
“No, never. But…it looks like you’re getting a new title soon besides ‘husband.’” His eyes widened, finally getting what I was trying to tell him. “I’m pregnant.”
“What? Really?” he gasped. “Oh my god, that’s amazing!” His smile reached his eyes as he engulfed me in a hug.
I was pleasantly surprised at his reaction. We hadn’t talked about having kids together, and honestly, I didn’t even know if he wanted any of his own. I was prepared for at least a little shock—maybe even a little anger. Given that I was on the pill, I was worried he would’ve thought I did it on purpose.
“Yes, really!” He pulled back and covered my face in his hands, burying me in his kisses. As more fireworks blasted in the night sky, he continued kissing and worshiping my mouth.
Besides the birth of Stella, that was the best moment of my life. Knowing we were becoming a family and building our future together was something I never thought possible. When Liam died, I thought that was it—that I’d never have a family or a happily ever after, but now I was convinced otherwise.
“Stella!” I yelled from my bed, already needing assistance.
“Yes, mommy?” She wore a bright smile as she skipped to my side.
“Can you help mommy up? I’m stuck.” I made a pouty face at her, making her laugh. It had been so long since I had been pregnant that I forgot what it felt like to feel like a million pounds. Not only was I carrying two babies, but it was as if the swelling showed up out of nowhere. I was
bloated, swelled up like a penguin, and achy—oh, the joys of pregnancy.
She grabbed my hand with both of hers and yanked me as hard as she could and gave me just enough lift to help me off the bed.
“Thanks, baby.”
“Are you going to have those babies soon, Mom?” She looked up at me in sweet innocence. We had the baby talk about two months ago when we started telling people, explaining to her that we were having a baby, and that she and Liam would be a big brother and a big sister.
“I knew it.” She folded her hands across her chest, not acting surprised at all.
thirty-year-old woman.
“I told you I wished for one.” “Yeah, me too,” Liam chimed in.
“You think I’m having a baby because you both wished for one?” I asked, humoring myself. “Well…what if I told you I’m having twins?”
Stella and Liam’s faces lit up as they slapped high fives. Part of me—the curious part— actually wanted to believe it was their wishes that made this come true—but the skeptical part knew better. No, it was just a coincidence. But I don’t believe in coincidences…so, what? Was this all part of my life plan, after all?
“Mommy, how are you getting those babies out of there?” she asked as I waddled my way to the closet. My eyes grew big, knowing that I’d have to have this talk with her soon, but I wasn’t
prepared to do it now—I hadn’t figured out how I would explain the whole birthing cycle yet. “Well…” I choked, trying to stall as long as possible. I grabbed a shirt from the hanger, buying me more time as I slid it on.
“Did you eat watermelon seeds? Is that how they got in there? Mackenzie said that’s how her mommy had her brother.” Oh, yes…great and informative Mackenzie.
Not wanting to have this talk before my morning coffee, I lied. “Yes, that’s exactly how they got in there. And then when they’re nice and ripe, they’ll come right out of mommy’s tummy.”
The smile on her face told me she was satisfied as she skipped out of the room and down the hall.
I was only four and a half months along, but I was huge already. I didn’t start to show this early with Stella, but carrying two, I knew this pregnancy would be completely different.
I had been super tired lately. I was hoping the second trimester energy boost would’ve taken effect already, but if anything, it had gotten worse. I couldn’t sleep at night without nightmares of Travis, I couldn’t get comfortable, and I couldn’t get the image of seeing Stanley with Denny out of my mind.
“Lay down, Mama,” Michael chimed in, waltzing into my room with a tray. “I made breakfast.” I watched as he placed the tray on the bed—set with eggs, toast, orange juice, and a banana.
I waddled from the closet back down to the bed. “This is so sweet, thank you.” I started crying uncontrollably out of nowhere.
“Baby girl?” Michael asked, raising his eyebrow.
“I’m sorry,” I cried out. “These damn pregnancy hormones make me cry over everything.” “Over breakfast?” He chuckled, amused.
so sweet.”
“I love you, baby girl. I’ll always take care of you.” He kissed me on the forehead and stroked my hair. “However, pregnant Molly is a bit dramatic,” he teased.
I sniffed and got myself together. “Thank you,” I said softly, taking the tray over my lap. “You’re welcome. Now get some rest. I’ll take the kids to school.”
“You know, I can still do things!” I yelled out sarcastically.
“I know. Just not as fast as I can!” he yelled back with amusement. Damn, he was right. I had been off my game lately.
I didn’t have to work until the afternoon, so I enjoyed my breakfast in bed. I was trying to eat healthy, moderate meals, but it was as if my body was working overtime. Always wanting to sleep and eat. Didn’t really help that I worked on my feet and around food all day.
Drake walked in wrapped in only a towel. The toast I was bringing to my mouth suddenly dropped from my fingers as my eyes roamed over his perfectly toned body. My eyes followed down to his perfect V that went just below the towel.
“Breakfast in bed and a show? I’m one lucky gal,” I teased, leaning back against the headboard enjoying the view.
“Someone sounds like they are feeling better.” He smiled. “Well, I for sure am now.”
“Really? Well, perhaps I should take advantage of that.” He grinned, slowly unwrapping the towel from around his waist. I smirked as I watched him tease me, putting on a show as he finally released the towel. I watched it fall to the ground. I let my eyes wander up and down his body— appreciating every single chiseled curve of muscle.
“It’s not nice to tease,” I reminded him. “You better put out or get out.”
“Oh, I love it when you talk dirty,” he quipped, laughing. “I can’t decide if I love or hate your pregnancy hormones.” He grinned. It was true—I had a love/hate relationship with them as well. On top of always wanting to sleep and eat, I also wanted sex—all the time. Not that Drake minded, but some days, I was all over the place. I felt like I had no control over them. They were beginning to drive me mad.
“Can you be a little late for work today?” I asked, placing the tray of food on the bedside table. I didn’t take my eyes off him as I watched him walk over to the bed. “I’d hate for you to get into trouble.” I grinned.
“I could probably weasel my way out of it with the boss.” “You are the boss.”
can spare a few minutes…” He pressed his lips across my jaw, slowly moving to my neck. He bit it gently, making a moan escape my mouth at his touch and eagerness. “…for you.”
His hands slid up my sides, taking my shirt up with them. I arched my neck to the side, giving him better access as the sensations riveted through me.
I reached down, pressing him harder into me. I felt his hardness against me, making me desperate and needy for him.
The hormones made my body respond to him so much more—not that I didn’t before—but it was magnified. It was intensified, and I felt desperate to have him.
“Screw the foreplay. I need to have you right now,” I demanded, pushing his body harder against mine.
“Such a romantic, aren’t you?” I could feel him smiling against my neck as he continued softly kissing.
“I mean it. I’m going to explode,” I breathed out rapidly. Just his touch could undo me completely.
“Alright, hold on, baby.” He lowered his body and in one swift motion, slid my panties down. I wasn’t looking for romance right now. I needed him just as much as I needed to breathe. I threw my shirt over my head and unclasped my bra. It was still weird seeing my body naked with the way it was changing so fast, but it was also a constant reminder of the love Drake and I shared.
Instead of pressing into me like I wanted him to, he tenderly laid kisses over my stomach and in between my breasts. He was torturing me. He knew it, too. I was practically grinding against him, yet he refused to give in.
“Baby, please,” I moaned out desperately.
“I can’t help it. You are just so beautiful. You have the most beautiful pregnant glow.” He continued to lay kisses around my bump, slowly, taking his time.
“That’s great,” I huffed, cupping his face up to look at me. “I’m going to handcuff you to this bed and straddle you if you don’t—”
He forced two fingers inside me before I could finish what I was saying. I moaned loudly at the surprise sensation, arching my hips up to greet his fingers.
“You’re feisty when you’re desperate.” He laughed as he worked his fingers in and out of me, hitting the perfect spot over and over.
I ignored him and grabbed the bedrail behind me, arching my body up to him as I needed and wanted to feel him inside me.
amusement in his tone. He enjoyed torturing me and secretly loved it.
“Say it,” he demanded, pressing harder into me, twisting his wrist, and practically taking all the air out of my lungs. “Say what you need, baby.”
“I need you! I need you inside, right now. God, I swear, I’ll do anything,” I pleaded, willing to do just about anything to get what I wanted from him.
“Anything for my sweet girl,” he hummed, lowering his lips to where his fingers were. He sucked hard, leaving no time for me to retaliate. My back arched, enjoying the sensations that released inside of me. My body shivered with pleasure, unable to control my own breathing as I moaned out.
He lifted his head and covered my body with his. I watched as he licked his fingers, moaning out pleasurable sounds.
“Keep your hands up,” he ordered. I continued hanging onto the bedrail, tightening my grip as he finally pushed himself into me. The feeling was overwhelming as I took him all in, finally feeling full and satisfied.
He leaned down and kissed me gently as he rocked his hips into me. His breathing quickened as the air blew over my lips. His mouth wandered to my ear, blowing and licking over my lobe,
making it harder to leave my hands up. I wanted to dig my nails into him and drive him insane as much as he was doing to me. He lowered his hand and cupped my breast, squeezing gently. I screamed out his name, pushing my breast into his hand urgently, desperately needing the release.
He lowered his face and took it into his mouth, swirling his tongue around my peaked nipple. He grabbed one leg and placed it on top of his shoulder, allowing him to get deeper inside me. That was enough to set me off. I screamed out, not holding back as I greeted his hips with mine, soaking up every pleasurable second.
It wasn’t long before Drake did the same, milking his own release as he grinded into me. He lay on top of me as we both tried to get ahold of our breathing, panting into each other.
“Well, if this wasn’t the best morning I’ve ever had—breakfast in bed and sex all before my shower.” I grinned. My legs felt like jelly as all my muscles were stretched and aching.
“Glad to be of service.” His voice was filled with amusement. I’ve been like this for the past few months—needing sex on demand. I felt bad, as if I were using him, but I figured it wasn’t much different from before I got pregnant.
“Must be horrible for you, always needing to fulfill my needs, and all.” I stroked his back with my fingertips as he continued lying on top of me.
“It’s not always easy being the boss. Sometimes I have to do the dirty work.” I could feel his smile against my chest as we bantered.
He kissed me lightly on the lips before rolling off the bed. I just watched as he walked to the bathroom. I listened as the shower started and steam began filling the room.
“Come on, let’s shower together.” He smiled, holding his hand out for me.
“Definitely the best morning ever.” I grinned, taking his hand in mind as I followed him in. And it was the best shower ever.
---<>---2
Drake
Watching Molly unravel beneath me is by far the sexiest thing on Earth. The way her eyes rolled in the back of her head, and the way she sucked in her bottom lip between her teeth, undoes me every time. The way she moaned and screamed through the pleasure gave me a high. I loved hearing her little voice scream out my name as she clawed at the bedrails. I loved everything about her— pregnancy hormones and all.
The day we went to her first ultrasound is a day I’ll never forget. Molly was only eight weeks along, but they were easily able to determine that she was carrying twins.
“Are you sure? I mean, maybe it’s just one big sack?” I asked, sweating nervously.
I heard the ultrasound technician chuckle. “Yes, I’m sure. There are two heartbeats.” She pointed to the bottom of the screen where the heartbeats were being recorded and turned up the volume. I heard two fast beating pulses, strong and perfect.
I never before felt scared, nervous, and happy all at once. The way Molly’s face lit up as she watched the screen made everything worth it—the struggles, the pain, being shot—all worth it for this very moment.
Since the beginning when we found out, Molly’s moods have been all over the place. I knew she couldn’t help it, and mostly I just tried not to laugh when she has her outbursts because it’s just the cutest thing ever, but deep down I knew she had a hard time with it. She didn’t like not having control over her emotions. She was used to everything being a certain way and on schedule.
There have been countless nights where she woke me up and demanded sex. Typically, I wouldn’t mind, but after a while, it was becoming routine. I loved her, so I wanted to please her, but between the cravings, random horny moments, and crying, I didn’t know how much longer I’d last through this pregnancy—and she still had 4 months to go…
As Molly got dressed after our shower, I just stood in the doorway and watched. She was so stunning, so beautiful, and she didn’t even realize it. I think she knew she was pretty, but to me, she was simply gorgeous. And seeing her with a swollen belly made her even more beautiful—if that were possible. The way her shirt lay over her stomach with just enough fabric to cover made me anxious for our babies to be here. I knew she had a while to go yet and that she’d get much bigger, but I was definitely enjoying the journey of watching her grow.
want her working anymore so she could take care of herself, but she insisted.
“Blakely and I both close,” she said, smoothing her hands over the coat, ridding all the wrinkles. After everything that happened with Nikos, I made sure the hiring process was much more in depth with screening applicants. I wasn’t going to allow another Nikos in my restaurant.
“Please take it easy,” I begged. Although I knew Molly could still work while being
pregnant, and that many other women do too, it still made me nervous knowing hot stoves, ovens, and sharp objects surrounded her. And knowing how clumsy she could be, it made for a not-so-pretty picture in my head.
“I will, don’t worry. Colin and Blakely don’t let me do much anyway.” I liked Colin. Good chef, good worker, and best of all, wasn’t into my girl. Last I heard from Molly, Blakely was trying to dig her nails into Colin, and he wasn’t pushing away.
“Good.” I smiled. “Well, I’m off to work. Don’t want to be much later, or the boss will ring my neck,” I joked.
She walked over and wrapped her arms around my neck. I kissed her lightly, and then knelt down to kiss her belly. “Be good for mommy.” I smiled. There had been a few instances where the smells of certain foods at work have made her sick and she’s had to leave early. I knew she hated it and wanted to do her part instead of having everyone else work extra hard to compensate for her.
“Yeah, you tell ’em, babe. Baby A is jammed up my ribcage.” She chuckled, but was serious. “And Baby B is somewhere in the other rib.”
“Well, soon enough, they’ll be here,” I reminded her. I stood back up and kissed her once more. “I’ll come down and visit you when I’m done at the office.”
“Okay. Love you,” she called as I began walking down the hallway. “Love you three!”
As I walked down the hall to the staircase, I paused in front of the nursery. It wasn’t set up yet, but Molly was having a blast designing it. Michael insisted on being the decorator, making sure it was all set up and designed perfectly. I had no idea of all the small details that went into having a baby. I especially didn’t know how much work went into getting the nursery ready. I figured a crib, some clothes, and diapers. However, Michael informed me of how wrong I was.
We had looked at baby cribs and everything else we’d need—bassinets, swings, bouncers, changing tables, dressers, clothes, toys, diapers—the list seemed endless. There was still a lot left to plan and get ready, but as long as Molly was happy with it, I was happy.
him in my life, regardless of the fact that I had to share him with his mother; I was just happy to be given a second chance at being his dad.
Having Liam in my life made me extra excited about the twins coming. I hadn’t known I even wanted to be a dad until the day I found out about Liam. When I heard about Violet’s secret, I was determined to have my son in my life. The visions of baseball games, movie nights, and birthday parties flooded my mind the entire year I searched for them. My dad and I didn’t have that kind of relationship; we never bonded like that. He was a good dad in that he provided for me and taught me what I know now, but I really felt that I missed that in my childhood. I was never going to let any of my children grow up with a dad like that. I wanted to give them everything they deserved and more.
* * *
I walked to my office feeling great. I loved that Molly was working just floors below me. Not that she needed to be watched, but if anything happened to her, I wouldn’t be far away.
“Your messages, Mr. Stagliano.” My assistant walked in and set a handful of notes down on my desk.
“Thank you, Carla.”
As I scanned through them, I saw an interesting one catch my eye. Stanley Webber. What did he want? I only spoke to him if it pertained to Liam, and usually, Violet would text or call me if it were important.
It was weird knowing Molly’s secret about Stanley. I knew she didn’t want to tell him or anyone else for that matter, but a part of me felt like she should. Perhaps it was because Stanley was a good man, and maybe I thought he deserved to know, but it was Molly’s decision, and I’d never force her to do anything she didn’t want to do. Stanley was good to Liam, so for now, that’s all that
mattered.
I decided to ignore it for now and catch up on my emails. Things have been crazy busy lately, the holidays approaching soon and the restaurant expanding. I’d have to hire another chef to cover the expansion and another to cover Molly when she goes on maternity leave. If I had my way, she would stay home and never go back to work at all. But I knew it was important to her, so I never pushed the subject too much.
I worked on my computer through the morning, catching up on financial statements and documents when an eager knock startled me. “Yes?” I called out.
“Mr. Stagliano, there’s a Mr. Webber here. He says it’s urgent.” Her eyes were fierce letting me know she was uncomfortable with him just showing up. She had worked for me for many years now, so I was accustomed to her facial expressions.
one neat pile. I watched as she escorted him in and offered a beverage. He denied and thanked her kindly. She closed the door quietly as Stanley walked toward my desk. “Come, sit down,” I ordered, motioning to the chair.
“I apologize for just showing up, Drake, but I wanted to catch you before you left for lunch.” He sat down across from me.
“Is everything okay? Is Liam alright?” I asked.
“Oh yes, he’s fine. Nothing like that. I’m actually here on business.” “What is it?” I crossed my arms, looking intently at him.
“I’m hoping you’d be willing to help me out with something.” “Go on.” I nodded.
“I have a new business partner, and I want to host a welcome event into my company. I was hoping to be able to do it here at the Riverside, keep it low profile until his partnership is
announced.”
“I’m sure we could work something out. You don’t want to use one of your hotels?” I asked curiously.
“Well, the ones in the city I have are all booked for holiday events coming up, and I wanted to do this in a few weeks, if possible.”
It seemed odd to me, but Stanley was a nice enough guy, so I decided to go along with it. “I’m sure we can plan something on short notice. What kind of things are you looking to do?” I grabbed a notepad and pen to write some notes down. I’d have my assistant book the hall and get everything ready.
“Something on the casual side, but nice. More like a meet and greet.” “Do you want the caterers?”
“Yeah, I was thinking a sit down event; we’ll eat, and have a couple speeches, just something to welcome him into my company. Mostly businessmen will be there networking.” I nodded as I wrote it all down. It sounded simple enough. It was always good to network with other financial experts and hotel owners. Stanley was very professional on the outside, but I’ve gotten to know his soft side around Liam.
“Great, I think I’ve got it all. I’ll give this to my assistant and see when she can squeeze it in.” I smiled, setting the pen down. We both stood up and shook hands. “I’ll be in touch.”
“Thanks, Drake. Appreciate it.” He nodded back at me and turned to leave. I ripped the sheet off the pad and called for my assistant.
* * *
him since she confessed the truth about him, but I guess there really wasn’t much for her to say about him. She didn’t know him. She didn’t want to get to know him, and whenever he was with Violet dropping Liam off, she would be sweet, but guarded. I always felt it was her way of keeping her distance, not wanting to get too close.
“It’s small, nothing too big. Plus, I think Stanley wants to enjoy the evening rather than always feeling like he’s at work.”
“That’s nice of you,” she said in a surprised tone.
“Aren’t I always?” I answered with an amused grin. I stood behind her, nuzzling my face in the nape of her neck.
“Well, it’s better than Violet showing up at your office…again.” She tensed. I blew air over her ear and nipped it with my mouth. Her body relaxed and shivered underneath me, making me grin at how easily her body reacts to me.
“Stop it. I’m trying to make dinner.” She giggled, pushing her neck down.
“Yes, please stop it. I don’t want to throw up before I even get a chance to eat,” Michael interrupted, making a gagging sound.
“Oh, like you’re any better?” Molly fired back. “I swear, I walk in on you and Trey one more time—”
“Hey,” he interrupted, putting his hands up in surrender. “No one told you to walk in. Ever hear of knocking?”
“Ever hear of shut the hell up?” She made a face at him and swatted him with the wood spoon in her hand.
“Alright, you two. Play nice,” I interjected. I backed away to let them bicker it out. Michael’s boyfriend, Trey, had been coming over a lot more recently. Michael finally decided to settle down and date. Molly liked him, but lately she was a little edgy about it. Personally, I think it was because she was jealous of all the time Michael spent with him instead of her. And add that to the pregnancy hormones, you had one emotional recipe for disaster.
On top of planning Stanley’s event, I wanted to surprise Molly with an engagement party soon. She hadn’t mentioned a lot about the wedding with focusing on the babies and work, so I
thought I’d do all the organizing of getting a party together. We’ve been engaged five months now, so I figured we needed to do it soon.
Christmas was coming up, so I thought a holiday engagement party would be the route to go. I had a party planner already on top of it. I didn’t want Molly to stress about it—and I knew she
I set the table and called for Stella to come down. Michael and Molly were still teasing each other in the kitchen, so I sat at the table with Stella.
“So how was your day, sweetie?” I asked, pouring her a cup of milk. She shrugged, not looking up from the table. “What’s wrong?”
“First grade is hard,” she pouted.
“I’m sorry, sweetie. Anything I can help with?”
“Can I bring gum to school?” She looked up bright-eyed.
“Gum? I don’t think you’re supposed to have gum in school, are you?” “It’s not for chewing,” she informed.
Confused, I asked, “Okay…what’s it for?” “It’s a secret.”
“You can trust me, I promise.” I crossed my arms on the table, leaned my head on top, and gave a wink.
“I want to give it to someone.” She smiled, almost blushing.
“Who?” I asked curiously, leaning back up to take a drink of my water.
“My boyfriend,” she answered bluntly. Shocked, water spat out of my mouth and nose. She laughed as I covered my face.
“Your what?” Molly interjected, dropping a pan in the middle of the table. “Did you just say boyfriend?” She placed a hand on her hip, raising her eyebrows.
“And the fun begins,” Michael muttered, taking a seat across from me. He chuckled as he saw Molly’s scowl.
“You, young lady,” Molly said, pointing a finger at Stella, “are not allowed to date nor have boyfriends until you’re thirty, you hear me?”
Stella giggled.
“Thirty? Girl, please,” Michael snorted. He reached across the table and grabbed a scoop of casserole.
“She’s gonna need a tracking device.” I chuckled.
“You better get a chastity belt on her,” Michael continued.
“Oh my god! Stop it, you two!” Molly snapped back. “I mean it. There will be no talk of boyfriends!”
“Okay, no more teasing,” I promised. I put my hand over my heart and crossed it so she knew I meant it.
“So…” Michael began. I could tell he was trying to come up with a better topic. “Have you guys given any thought on the wedding? I mean, are you going to set a date sometime soon? I’d really like to get planning.” He stabbed a piece of chicken with his fork and popped it in his mouth.
“You’re planning it, huh?” I asked amused.
“Well, you want it to kick ass, right?” Michael raised an eyebrow, grinning.
“I’m not really sure, Michael,” Molly interrupted. “With the babies, it just makes more sense to wait, don’t you think?” She turned to look at me. I hadn’t really wanted to wait that long, but I
could definitely see her point.
“Whatever you want, baby. We could wait until after the babies are here.”
She smiled and took a sip of her water. “I mean, unless you just want to elope,” she teased. Honestly, I could care less what route we took. Of course, I wanted it to be special for us, but I just wanted to make her mine. I wanted to call her my wife. I wanted to stamp my initials in her to keep any wandering eyes off her.
“Hey, Elvis could marry us Vegas-style, for all I care.” I smiled back at her. I grabbed her hand in mine and brought it to my lips.
“Oh gross,” Michael groaned, ruining our moment. “I will not allow you two to get married by Elvis. Absolutely not. Hell will freeze over before that happens.”
“And why is that, Michael?” Molly snapped. “If I want Elvis to marry me, I will.”
“Unless Elvis himself resurrects from his grave, I can’t let you do it.” I watched as Molly rolled her eyes and stabbed another piece of chicken.
“Hell!” Stella screamed, jerking all of our attention toward her. “Excuse you, young lady?” Molly narrowed her eyes.
“Michael said it first.” Her body lowers in the chair.
Molly slowly turned her attention toward Michael. “Nice going.”
Michael busted out laughing as Molly cringed. “I teach her all my best qualities, remember? She’ll have a great sense of fashion, and a foul mouth. Get used to it, babe.”
“You are no help,” she growled.
The rest of our evening was spent listening to Michael test Molly’s limits. Apparently,
Michael had a death wish. I just sat there, shaking my head as Michael dug his own grave. But I knew they had a relationship I would never understand. Whatever works for them…
---<>---3
Molly
Drake left early for work the following morning, leaving me alone for a few hours before I had to go into work. I enjoyed working the later shift, giving me enough time to get through my nausea and morning sickness. Not only that, it gave me some peace and quiet time.
“Damn, you swallow a watermelon?” Michael walked into my room, raising an eyebrow as his eyes roamed my belly.
Apparently, quiet time is over.
“Two actually.”
“I don’t envy you, that’s for sure. Just the thought of how those babies are getting out makes my balls hurt.” He made a pained face, which made me laugh.
“That’s exactly why men could never go through labor. You’re all a bunch of babies.” “Oh, is that so? You think women are the only ones that could stand the pain?” he retorted. He sat on the bed next to me, causing the bed to dip.
I moved closer to him and twisted his nipple. “Ow, oh my god!” he squealed. “Case in point.”
“That’s not fair. That’s sensitive,” he whined, rubbing over his chest. “And my vag isn’t? Please, men could never handle it.”
He rolled his eyes, not willing to argue with my raging hormones. “You’re lucky I love you.” He grinned.
“Or what?”
“Or I wouldn’t—” He grabbed my hips and started tickling me uncontrollably. “Michael, stop!” I squealed.
“Never! Let’s see how much you can handle! Mwahaha!”
“You’re an evil man! Stop! I’m gonna pee my pants!” I screamed back, wiggling out of his grasp. “Seriously, I think I leaked!”
Michael finally stopped, but he couldn’t contain his laughter. I swatted at him as I clenched my thighs together, waddling to the bathroom.
“Sorry, babes. But…I still have it,” he gloated, brushing his hands together.
Michael was like a brother to me. He was my best friend, but he was more than that. He was my gay soul mate—if there was such a thing—but it was true. He was my other half in being the
perfect best friend.
As I walked out of the bathroom, Michael continued, “Maybe if I tickle you enough, your water will break.”
“That’s gross. Plus, I don’t want it to break for like 4 months yet.” I walked back to the bed and lay down.
“Okay, fine. We’ll renegotiate in four months,” he teased, grinning.
“Whatever.” I made a face at him. “Now, go away. You’re interrupting my quiet time.” “Fine. I guess you don’t have much of that left.” He leaned over and kissed my forehead. As I watched him walk away, his words roamed in my head. He was right—I didn’t have a lot of time. And yet, it felt like it was taking forever.
I decided I would just lay in bed, enjoying every solid second until I had to shower for work. This pregnancy was sucking all the energy out of me. I was always tired and had absolutely no motivation to do anything.
* * *
As I walked through the kitchen doors at work, I spotted Blakely right away. “Well, well, well. Look what the cat dragged in,” Blakely groaned, rolling her eyes at me.
“I’m so glad we’re best friends,” I quipped, grabbing my apron and chef’s hat. “I mean, who else could I booby punch and get away with it?” Before she could react, I quickly squeezed her boob and laughed. “Damn, those things feel like water balloons.”
“You’re so lucky you’re pregnant right now, otherwise…”
“Otherwise, what? There’d be some girl on girl action?” Colin interrupted. He had a smug look on his face as he casually leaned up against one of the counters.
“You wish.” Blakely laughed. “If, and that’s a big if, I were to do any girl on girl action, it wouldn’t be with Molly.”
“Hey, I take offense to that.” I stuck my tongue out. “And you’d be lucky to have me.” I laughed. “I can’t believe we’re having this conversation.”
“And all before I’ve had my afternoon Red Bull,” Blakely groans.
“So anyway,” Colin said slowly, moving his eyes between Blakely and I. “Time to get ready for the dinner rush.”
“I think you’ve made Colin uncomfortable.” I chuckled, nudging Blakely as I walked passed her.
her section.
“Ew. That’s just not something I needed to know.” And I definitely didn’t want to know about her hookups.
Blakely walked up to me and whispered, “I’ve made him whimper like a baby as he begged for it.”
I raised my eyebrows up at her and cringed. “Well, if I wasn’t nauseous before, I definitely am now.”
She laughed as she walked away in her evil, but satisfied laugh. I’ve actually grown to like her these past few months. Sure, she annoyed me and was often inappropriate, but some how she made everything lighter. She never took anything too seriously, and she made me laugh on a daily basis. And she hasn’t let her feelings for Colin go unknown. I think everyone at Riverside knew she and Colin were hooking up. Not that Colin wanted to broadcast the news, but it was obvious he enjoyed it. He was a single dad after his girlfriend left him, so I think him being chased down by bombshell Blakely fed his damaged ego.
We worked long into the night, keeping up with the dinner rush. With the holidays
approaching soon, the Chicago streets were packed. The restaurant stayed busy, making my shift go by quickly. Drake stopped in, but I didn’t have time to chat, so he grabbed some food to take home to Stella and Michael.
By the time I finally slowed down, my body went dizzy. I leaned up against a counter to balance myself, but my eyes weren’t focusing. I took in a few slow breaths, hoping to get my heart rate down, but after a few minutes, nothing was working.
“Hey, are you alright?” Blakely asked from behind, placing her hand on my shoulder. “I don’t know. I just got really dizzy all of a sudden.”
“Colin, grab Molly a chair from the office, please!” she yelled. “I’m fine. Really, I just—”
“Shut up and sit.” Blakely grabbed the chair from Colin and all but pushed me down on it. “You want me to call Drake?” she asked concerned. She was typically a goof ball, but now I could tell she was truly worried.
“Guys, I’m fine. I just worked too long without taking a break, that’s all. Next time, I’ll take breaks in between,” I promised.
“There won’t be a next time.” I heard Drake growl from behind. Shit.
I slowly turned and saw Drake leaning up against the wall, ankles and arms crossed. I could feel his angry eyes burning into me.
“I thought you went home.”
sitting out of breath like this.” He pushed off the wall and walked toward me. “I don’t want you working anymore if it’s going to put you and our babies in jeopardy.”
“We’re not in jeopardy. Like I just said, it’s because I didn’t take a break. I won’t let it happen again,” I promised again. Drake knew how important it was to me that I keep working. I’d go stir crazy if I had to stay at home all day. I needed to be doing something—contributing something. Not to mention, that I really loved what I was doing. Plus, I knew the restaurant needed me, even if Drake insisted he could get a temp to replace me.
“Okay, but—and I mean this—if this happens again, you are done. I don’t want you overworking yourself into preterm labor.”
“Deal.” I smiled, agreeing to his terms because I knew it wouldn’t happen again. When I got too big or too tired to work, then I’d stop, but I wanted it to be on my terms. I wanted to continue working until I could no longer do it. I didn’t just want to give it all up after I had worked so hard to get here in the first place.
Before I met Drake, I had put myself through culinary school. Those dreams were still
important to me. I knew I didn’t need to work, but it’s what I loved doing. I’ve always wanted to set a good example for Stella. I want to teach her that if you try hard enough and set your mind to it, you can accomplish your goals.
I said goodbye to Colin and Blakely before letting Drake take me home. He could be tough sometimes, but was also very sensitive to when it came to making his family or me happy. After everything that went down with Travis and Nikos, he’d been more protective than ever— not that I blamed him.
“Are you mad?” I asked as we pulled out into the street.
“I’m not mad. I’m just worried.” He didn’t look at me, keeping his eyes focused on the road. “I know. And I’m sorry for making you worry, but I really will be careful from now on.” He nodded and we drove the rest of the way home in silence.
I tiptoed to Stella’s room and quietly kissed her good night and covered her back up. She tended to kick the sheets off in her sleep. I brushed her hair off her face and smiled as I watched her sleep peacefully. I couldn’t help thinking how proud her daddy would be if he were still here. She looked so much like him that it’s hard not to think of him often.
I quietly shut her door and walked back down the hall to our bedroom. I decided to take a shower and get the restaurant smell off me.
“Hmm…you are making a shower very tempting.” He grinned.
I smirked as I opened the bathroom door and walked inside. I shut it briefly and took my pants off. I slipped my panties off and cracked the door back open. I waved the panties in my hand, giving him a view of what he was missing.
“Just in case you change your mind…”
I heard him laughing as I shut the door again. I turned the water on and waited for it to warm up. I took my hair down and combed my fingers through it, untangling the knots. I took the rest of my clothes off and opened up the shower door.
I grabbed the luffa and poured body wash over it. I lathered it up and began washing over my body. I smiled as I washed over my swollen bump. The reality of having twins suddenly overcame me as I felt butterflies and kicks on the outside for the first time.
“Oh my god!” I squealed, smiling. I dropped the luffa and brought my hands over my belly, anxiously waiting to feel them again. “Drake!” I called out, opening the shower door. I wanted him to feel this.
I left the door open as I waited for him. I heard the bathroom door open and heard Drake, “What is it? Everything okay?” He peeked in looking worried.
“Everything’s great! The babies just kicked!” I pointed down at my belly, all giddy. “I can feel them on the outside!”
“Really?”
“Yes, come in here!” I smiled. I waited as he stripped down and slowly stepped in. “Here, put your hands right here.” I placed his hands on each side of my belly.
As the water sprinkled over us, both babies kicked simultaneously. Drake’s face lit up as the little movements kicked against his hands. The moment was simply incredible—watching Drake’s expression as he felt his babies for the first time.
“I can’t believe this,” he gushed. “It makes it so much more real.”
I watched as his hands roamed over my belly. I could tell it was making him emotional. This was the absolute best part of pregnancy—watching Drake become a father and finally being able to experience these moments with him.
“Isn’t it amazing?” I looked up into his eyes.
“It’s incredible.” I wiped under his eyes where I could tell he was crying.
He cupped my face and softly kissed my lips until they were nearly bruised. The water
continued sprinkling over our heads as we kissed under it, not moving or saying a word—just soaking up every second of this moment.
The following morning, I woke up feeling sick. I’ve been blessed with not much morning sickness, but this particular morning was different. Something was different.
“Drake!” I called out, not exactly sure where he was.
“Coming!” I heard him yell from the hallway. I sat up and leaned against the bedrails. I pushed a pillow behind my back, hoping to reduce the amount of pain I was beginning to feel.
“Everything okay?” he asked, walking in as he adjusted his tie.
“I don’t know. I just feel…weird. My back is in some pain. And my stomach isn’t feeling so hot either.”
He rushed over and immediately put his hands over my belly to soothe the ill feeling. He shoved another pillow behind me and one behind my head. I finally started to feel comfortable, but I still felt like something was wrong.
“Do you want some water or anything to eat?” “Water is fine.”
As I waited for Drake to come back, I rubbed my hands over my belly, waiting to feel some movement. I don’t know why, but I had a strange feeling overcome me.
“I think I need to go see my doctor,” I informed Drake as soon as he walked back in. “You think something’s wrong?” he asked worried. I nodded slightly as I took a drink of water. He reached for his cell phone and began dialing.
“I just don’t feel right. I don’t know…mother’s instincts, I guess.” “Okay, baby. I’ll call now.”
As soon as we arrived to the doctor’s office, my back pain had decreased slightly. I still felt off, but I was hoping the doctor had a simple explanation and that nothing was majorly wrong.
“Come in, and let’s take a look at you.” Doctor Nora was one of the best in Chicago. She specialized in multiple birth pregnancies and was the top 10 rated OB/GYN in the country.
I pulled my shirt up and let her exam my stomach. The pressure made me cringe. “Yeah, that doesn’t feel good,” I groaned.
“Alright, I want to do a cervix exam. I’ll have you undress from the waist down.” She handed me a gown and a little sheet.
Drake stayed silent as he helped me undressed. I could tell he was worried, but I didn’t want to give him any false hope by being overly optimistic.
The doctor came back in, snapped her gloves on, and sat down in between my legs. This was one of the most embarrassing parts of pregnancy—all opened and exposed for all to see.
always a chance of preterm labor, especially in twin pregnancies, so I’m going to recommend bed rest.”
“Bed rest?” I gasped, leaning up on my elbows.
“Yes, I think with your higher blood pressure, you are at risk of developing preeclampsia. And you definitely don’t want that, especially with twins. If you do—you’ll have to deliver right away.”
I surrendered back to the table and lay down. This can’t be happening. I knew it wasn’t the worst news ever, but bed rest? God, I was going to go crazy.
“Isn’t it too soon for bed rest? I mean, I’m only half way through.”
“It’s always better to be safe, Molly. Once I get the results from the ultrasound, I’ll have more information for you.” She gave a sincere smile, and I knew everything she was saying was right. I just really didn’t want to be put on bed rest already.
“This is going to suck,” I mumbled as Drake tucked me into bed.
“You will survive.” He grinned, pulling the covers over me. He fluffed the pillow behind my head and gently pushed me back. “You need your rest. Don’t you worry about a thing.”
“I’m probably going to go crazy, you know. Just laying here, doing nothing,” I whined. This was not like me. I hated sitting around, and I hated not working.
“And when you do, I’ll be here to help you through it.” He smiled as he leaned in. He pressed his lips firmly against mine, while he rubbed circles with his thumbs over my cheeks. “It’s just temporary,” he reminded me. I knew it was, but I was still bummed.
“I’ll write down the kids’ schedule for you, and the recipe to Stella and Liam’s favorite meal. And the grocery shopping list—”
“Molly!” Drake’s dark voice interrupted. “Sweetheart, I love you, but you need to trust me.” I closed my eyes and inhaled. “Okay, I’m sorry. I just…really hate this,” I admitted.
“Hate having no control? Hate letting others do things for you?” he smirked.
“Yes, okay! It drives me crazy not helping or knowing what’s going on. Just sitting here… you might have to admit me into an insane asylum,” I warned.
“And when that time comes, I’ll be sure to send you to the best one in the country.”
I huffed in surrender, knowing Drake was just trying to make me feel better, but it wasn’t. I wanted to be a part of the family, to make breakfast for my family in the mornings, and to make love to my fiancé without putting our babies and myself in jeopardy.
Guess I had to get used to it…for the next four months.
---<>---4
Drake
Knowing Molly was struggling with being on bed rest, I tried to keep her involved as much as I could—dinner plans, homework with Stella and Liam, movie nights in bed. It had only been a week since she was ordered to bed rest, and she was already begging to get out.
“Oh, hell no. You are not reading that smut.” I grinned and crossed my arms as I leaned against the doorframe.
“What’s wrong with Fifty Shades?” she asked, lowering the book. “I have to do something with all this unwanted free time,” she groaned.
“Because I’ve heard how worked up that book gets ladies.” I pushed off the doorframe and walked toward her.
“And what’s wrong with that?” she laid the book flat on the bed, eyeing me as I inched closer to her.
“Well, my love, normally nothing would be wrong with that.” I crawled on the bed, crawling over her slowly. “But right now, I can’t give you what you need. Right now, you need to rest, and sex is not something you can have.”
“Why?” she whined, crying out. “Please?”
“You know why. Baby, if I could, I would. I’d—” I bent my lips down and softly kissed her mouth. “—kiss you here, and then I’d kiss you here—” I brought my lips to her neck, suckling and kissing her soft, sensitive skin. “—and then I’d kiss you down here—” I lowered my body down to her bare legs and kissed right in between her thighs. I spread her thighs wider with my hands as I nuzzled my face against her. She moaned out, arching her body up to greet me.
The truth was that I wanted to make love to her so fucking badly. And if I knew I wouldn’t be putting her at risk, I would every which possible way, but I wasn’t about to risk the babies’ health over my desires. However, that didn’t mean I couldn’t make her feel good. I could tease and seduce her enough to get her off and relieve some of her sexual tension that I knew she was holding.
“You are evil,” she growled, digging her nails into my hair. I continued kissing up her thighs and eventually made my way to her panty line, just barely grazing my tongue and lips over her wet spot.
“Just giving you a taste, baby.” I smiled as I slowly tongued her panties aside. As long as she lay completely still, I wouldn’t be putting her at risk. “You must stay still,” I demanded in a firm tone as she began wiggling.
on tight as she released from her first intense orgasm. I always loved watching her unravel underneath me. It was the fucking sexiest thing ever to watch—the way her eyes would roll back, the way her head would fall back against the pillows, and the way her toes would curl as she screamed through the pleasure.
I wasn’t done with her yet. I pressed two fingers in lightly, not wanting to be too aggressive with her. I twisted and pressed against her until she begged and pleaded with me to stop.
I chuckled at the way she demanded me to give in, but I wouldn’t. With her high blood pressure and being a high-risk pregnancy, there was no way I was going to add to the distress. But I vowed to make her feel as good as I could without giving in completely.
I devoured her with my mouth, licking and sucking her clean. She screamed my name over and over as she came down for another orgasm. I wanted to give in so damn badly and please her the way I knew I could. But for now, I’d give her all my pleasure.
“Drake, baby, please,” she begged as I finished cleaning her up. “Just once. I swear, it’ll be fine.”
I couldn’t contain the amused grin on my face as she begged for it.
“Sweetheart, no,” I replied sternly. “Did I not satisfy you enough? Do you need more?” I mused.
“I need you,” she said sadly.
“I know. And I want to, but I can’t… not knowing what the doctor said.”
She stuck her lower lip out in a pout, making an insanely cute sad face. “Soon, baby. I promise.”
“Fine. I guess in the mean time, I’ll just read about Fifty Shades of kinky fuckery.” I lowered my brow at her. “I don’t even want to know what the hell that means.”
She laughed as she lay back in bed with her book. I kissed her gently on the lips and walked out to give her some quiet time before the kids got home.
* * *
I hated leaving for work in the mornings and leaving Molly behind. I knew she was in good hands with the help of Michael, but I still felt sad that she was laying in bed miserable.
I was packed solid with meetings and paperwork all day, but I wanted to surprise Molly and give her something to smile about. I had two dozen white and red roses delivered with a little
message:
For every day I get with you, my life feels complete. Don’t ever forget that.
My life only just began the moment you were mine. Love yours and forever more,
Drake xo
It wasn’t much, but I wanted to give her at least one reason to smile today. I had been working so much lately on Stanley’s event that I had been coming in early and staying late to get everything organized and ready.
The caterer’s and coordinator were all set in place. Now it was just handling all the small details. I had to move some stuff around to squeeze it in, but I was also secretly working on the
engagement party I wanted to throw for Molly. I knew she’d be excited to get out of the house at least, but I had to make sure I got her doctor’s approval before allowing her.
“Baby!” Molly screamed in my ear after I picked up the phone. “You know how much I love you? These are breathtaking!”
I smiled at the excitement in her voice. “I’m glad, sweetheart. I was hoping they’d make you feel better.”
“They do. They are simple stunning. They’d be a little better spread out on the bed underneath us.” I could hear the amusement in her tone.
“Oh, is that so? I could go for a nice snuggle.”
“That’s not what I meant, and you know it,” she fired back. “Sorry, baby. That’s all I can give you right now.”
“Ugh,” she huffed. “I know.” I continued clicking away on my computer, needing to finish some last minute paperwork before I checked out for the night.
“Listen, I’ll be home soon, I promise. Can I bring you anything?” “Hm, maybe some cheesecake?”
“Of course. Strawberry?” “Yes, please.”
“Alright, leaving soon. Love you.”
We hung up, and the truth was, I had a ton left to plan for the surprise engagement party, but I was dying to get home to see Molly and the kids, so I decided to leave it until tomorrow.
“Hey, Michael, how’s everyone doing?” I asked, placing the bag of cheesecake on the kitchen counter.
combined.” I knew he was referring to stuck-at-home-Molly. I chuckled as I took the cheesecake out of the package and put it on a plate.
“Sorry, man. Only four months left.” I winked and grabbed a glass and filled it with milk. “Easier for you to say. You get to leave and go to the office everyday.”
“Look, I can work from home if you need me to. I can make it work if it’s getting too rough for you. I know Molly can be a handful, I just know I won’t get much done if I’m here,” I replied honestly.
“No, man. It’s cool. I’m use to crazy-Molly. I just need to keep her busy.” “Good idea. But one thing—keep the smut books out of her reach, k?” “Got it. No kinky shit.”
“Thanks.” I patted him on the back as I walked out of the kitchen. I walked up the stairs and made it to our bedroom where Molly was sitting up against the bedframe and combing Stella’s hair as she sat in between her legs.
“Hey, my gorgeous girls.” I walked in and kissed Stella on the cheek, and then Molly. “How are you all holding up?”
“Mommy’s combing my hair for the zillionth time,” Stella replied right away. I couldn’t tell if she was complaining or just amused that Molly was brushing her hair.
“Well, it looks beautiful.” I gave a sympathetic smile.
“We just ate dinner. Sorry, the kids were hungry, and they didn’t want to wait,” Molly informed.
“No problem. I brought dessert.” I held up the plate and handed it to Molly. “There’s more in the kitchen if you and Liam want a piece.” I told Stella, hoping she’d jump at the opportunity.
“Yay! I’ll tell Liam right away!”
With Liam’s schedule, she didn’t get to see him very often unless he was home for the weekend. I felt awful having to work late, so I told Molly I’d be back up in a few.
I entered the kitchen and watched as Stella and Liam devoured their cheesecakes. It was the funniest and sweetest thing ever. They were shoving spoonfuls into their mouths while laughing and talking.
“Slow down kids. You’ll get a stomachache.”
“We’re racing!” Stella announced in between bites.
“Well, you’ll be racing to the bathroom when you need to throw all that up.” I crossed my arms as I leaned against the counter.
“Doesn’t matter,” Liam chimed in. “The first plate empty is the champ!”
“I win!” Liam yelled out, spiking his spoon into the air in victory.
“No! Not fair. Daddy Drake interrupted me,” Stella complained, quickly shoving the rest in her mouth.
I leaned into Liam’s ear and whispered, “You should always let the girl win.” I winked and nodded toward Stella.
He smiled back at me and gave a happy shrug. “Alright, you win, Stella.”
Before she could thank him, he grabbed another piece and quickly smashed it into her face. “Oh my god!” I yelled out, shocked. Half expecting Stella to get mad, I braced myself for the war that was about to develop.
“You’re so dead!” she screamed out, laughing. She grabbed another piece and threw it at Liam, getting him right in the face.
I was so shocked that I didn’t know what to do. They just continued laughing and throwing cheesecake at each other.
“Okay, okay. Stop!” I laughed, separating the two. “I’m probably supposed to yell at you guys or something, but it’s just too damn funny.” I laughed again. I snuck a piece off the tray and quickly smashed them in their faces, surprising them both.
“Hey!” Stella screamed out, giggling.
“Get her!” Liam yelled out, throwing the leftovers that had fallen on the floor at her. The kids and I got in a full out food fight. I hadn’t laughed this hard in weeks, but seeing their bright smiling faces, I just couldn’t resist allowing them to go at it. It was innocent fun, and I figured, hey, they only get to be kids once, so why not?
“Oh. My. God.” I heard both Michael and Molly say in unison.
I quickly brushed a hand over my face, getting most of the cheesecake off. “They started it,” was all I managed to say through the chuckles.
“Liam did it!” Stella ratted him out, pointing at him.
Liam brought both hands up in surrender. “Don’t look at me. I’m innocent.” I laughed and took both their hands. “Alright, you two. Time to wash up.” I kissed Molly on the cheek as we walked passed her and Michael.
“I am so not cleaning that up.” I heard Michael say as we walked to the bathroom. I chuckled, knowing how much Michael hates cleaning.
* * *
I planned the engagement party to be in three weeks. I knew with the holidays that people were going to be busy, but if I didn’t do it then, we wouldn’t be able to until after she had the babies.
“Yes. Three weeks.”
“That’s impossible. I mean, no way I can pull that off in three weeks.” The planning coordinator was panicked over the phone as I told her my plans.
“Not even for double your salary?” I intrigued. When I wanted something bad enough, I was sure to make it happen.
“Drake, you know that’s not how I work,” she persisted. “Triple.”
I heard her sigh and finally she agreed. “Fine. On one condition.” “Name it.”
“Name one the babies after me.” I could tell she was joking, but I went along with it anyway to amuse her.
“Deal. Rachel Mason Stagliano will make a beautiful boy’s name.” “Oh my god, shut up, Drake.” She laughed.
“So we have a deal then?”
“Yes, fine. I’ll get started right away.”
“Good. I’ll catch up with you in a week and see where you are.” “You got it.”
After finally getting her on board, I went to my files and dug out Stanley’s. He wasn’t very specific on what he wanted, so I just assumed a quiet, simple evening would suffice. I hadn’t even met his new partner yet, so I decided to call him up.
“Drake, what’s up man?”
I found it funny that Stanley, a man in his 50’s, spoke like a teenage boy. “Hey, want to grab lunch today? Bring your new partner so I can meet him.” “Sure. Blanche’s on 56th and East.”
“Okay, meet me at two.”
He agreed and hung up. If I weren’t getting much information from Stanley, I’d have to sink my teeth into his partner for info.
“Stagliano, for three,” I told the hostess. I had my assistant make reservations so we didn’t have to wait around.
“Yes, sir. Right this way.”
