Accidental Parents

by Matthews, Evie

  “All right, then. See you tomorrow.” Tyler said quietly.

  “Hey, wait. How was your first weekend with Sophie on your own?” Kendra asked, her voice slightly teasing. All weekend she had curbed the urge to call and check on Tyler and Sophie.

  “Well—her highness kept me up all night. I barely had enough rest.” Tyler shared, his voice was heavily laced with fondness instead of irritation.

  Kendra chuckled in response. At her age, Sophie could be quite a handful, especially for someone without any real experience with babies. She could hear Sophie blabbing loudly in the background as if demanding her turn to talk to her on the phone.

  “Here, she wants to talk to you.” Tyler barely finished his sentence when Sophie snatched the phone from his grasp.

  “Lo? Ba-ba, ba!” Sophie blabbered enthusiastically. Kendra spent a few minutes talking softly to her. The little one seemed to recognize her voice.

  Long after they had said their goodbyes, Kendra found herself lying awake in bed. Despite the dull muscle aches from all the scrubbing and washing, she felt excited to be with Sophie and Tyler. She eventually fell asleep at the wee hours of dawn with a smile on her face.

  * * * *

  The two promptly picked her up at eight o’clock in the morning. Tyler looked so handsome in his white chambray shirt and khaki pants. She was wearing a floral sundress she had never had the chance to wear, which showed off her collarbone and neck to perfection.

  She also took time to put on some light makeup, something that she didn’t normally do, except for a dab of lip gloss. Her efforts paid off since Tyler gave her an admiring look before he stowed her bags in the trunk of the car.

  Sophie was already on her car seat in the back of the car, happily playing with her new teddy bear. Kendra chuckled at the sight of the baby who was dressed in the frilliest candy pink dress she had ever seen. She also wore a pink elastic headband with the ribbon angled directly above her left eyebrow.

  “Why, someone is all dressed up today. Looks like Uncle Tyler got a little carried away.” Kendra chuckled throwing a teasing look at Tyler, who grinned proudly at his handiwork.

  “Da-da!” Sophie responded, her eyebrows moved expressively as she pointed to Tyler, as if putting the blame on him, which triggered a fresh round of laughter.

  They drove to Willow Creek Community Hospital where Dr. Morrison’s clinic was located. Most of the residents of Silver Bow including Kendra had been patients of the good doctor. Now in his sixties, most people seem to prefer him over the younger ones.

  Tyler proudly carried Sophie in one arm as they strolled along the hospital hallways. Kendra was greeted by her colleagues and some made teasing remarks about her and Tyler and that they looked like a perfect family. Kendra gently deflected them with a studied nonchalance. The last thing she wanted was to invite gossip and stir the interest of other people.

  It was a good thing Sophie diverted their attention with her funny antics. She seemed to enjoy the attention people are giving her, much to the amusement of her proud uncle. The visit to the doctor’s office was quick, Dr. Morrison had simply prescribed a new baby formula for Sophie and some vitamins. They bought the vitamins and picked up some groceries before they headed back to Tyler’s house.

  For the next few weeks, she would be living under one roof with Tyler. The thought sent shivers up her spine. Despite the large expanse, the house seems too small to steer clear from the strong pull of attraction.

  She knew without a doubt Tyler must have felt something too but they both know better than to mess up their business arrangement with a romp in bed. Besides, an affair could potentially ruin their friendship.

  It doesn’t take a crystal ball to know that a relationship with Tyler will only end up in heartbreak. Kendra was not the type to settle for one night stands and casual sex and she definitely didn’t have plans to join a long line of females who made total fools of themselves expecting more than Tyler could ever give.

  Fortifying her resolve, she just had to learn how to can stay out of Tyler’s way when he is in the house and be more determined to keep him at arm’s length. With renewed determination, she plans how she could make herself immune to Tyler’s charms by the end of the week, even if that’s the last thing she wanted do.

  Chapter Seven

  Over the next few days, Kendra and Tyler established a routine. In the mornings, Tyler woke up early and spent an hour at his makeshift gym. After breakfast, he rushed to his office and usually came home at around two or three in the afternoon to spend time with Sophie.

  Tyler had noticed a change in Kendra. She became more aloof and business-like. While he was not entirely comfortable with the coldness, he definitely didn’t have any plans to complain or make a big deal about it. He never had to force himself on anyone before and he damn well didn’t intend to start now.

  They were well into their second week when reality reared its ugly head. Kendra was playing with Sophie in the living floor when Tyler arrived home earlier than his usual time. His hair looked slightly disheveled and his tie was already loosened.

  Instead of heading straight to Sophie for a kiss, he went straight to his bedroom and flung his briefcase on his bed. He paced back and forth for several minutes before he took off his office attire and changed into a more comfortable shirt and khaki shorts.

  When he finally joined them in the living room, Kendra could sense something was not right. He gently took Sophie from her and kissed the little girl’s forehead.

  “Uhmm... I don’t mean to intrude, but is there something wrong, Tyler?” Kendra asked, her voice thick with concern.

  “Mel’s aunt filed for child custody.” Tyler said, his jaw tensed with tightly leashed anger.

  “What? Why the hell would she do that?” Kendra asked incredulously. She knew for a fact the couple had named Tyler as the legal guardian of Sophie in case of an untimely death. Surely, the courts would respect their wishes.

  “Apparently, Beatrice Cavendish questioned my ability to raise Sophie and provide a stable environment for her.” Tyler grated out, his bitterness and resentment became more evident.

  “But… But, that’s all changed now. Since Tim and Mel’s death, you have always been there for Sophie. I’ve seen how you’ve made sure to provide the best care for Sophie!” Kendra pointed out sharply.

  Tyler snorted in response. After a while, he gave Kendra a small smile, “Thanks for the vote of confidence Ken. Appreciate it. They won’t take Sophie from me, I’ll make sure of that.”

  “Let me know if you need me to help you with anything. You and Sophie are like family, you know.” Kendra said earnestly.

  “Thanks, Ken.” Tyler said warmly as he gently stroked Sophie’s hair. The little one had fallen asleep on Tyler’s chest, her rosebud lips slightly open. Kendra could not help but smile at the beautiful picture they made. People who didn’t know Tyler would no doubt assume he was her father. They have the same hair color and eyes. And those who know Tyler personally would no doubt be amazed at how he had willingly changed his lifestyle to accommodate his orphaned niece. There was no doubt in her mind, Tyler was a great father to Sophie. It was just sad his reputation preceded him.

  Tyler’s mobile phone rang, interrupting their musings. Kendra hurriedly walked to where Tyler was sitting to get Sophie from him. Crooning softly, she deposited the baby into her crib, careful not to wake her up.

  When she went back to the living room, Tyler was still slumped on the couch, brooding. Seeing that he needed space, Kendra went into the kitchen to prepare fix some lunch. She hadn’t eaten anything for lunch and she guessed Tyler might be hungry, too.

  While she was in the middle of fixing grilled cheese sandwiches and fresh salad, Tyler came and joined her in the kitchen. Grabbing a piece of apple from the refrigerator, he contented himself watching her move around the kitchen while munching his apple.

  Kendra felt her heart beat faster as she felt his gaze following her every move, like a scientist exa
mining an insect under a microscope. It took all her concentration to feign nonchalance and keep her movements fluid and normal, despite the rapid beating of her heart.

  “My lawyer will be coming over to discuss about the case. I’m hoping you can join us.” Tyler said quietly, his gaze penetrating.

  Shrugging her shoulders, “Sure. No problem. Sophie will be asleep for the next couple of hours, anyway,” Kendra said as she placed a plate with salad and a sandwich in front of him.

  “Thanks. I could get used to this.” Tyler chuckling as he gratefully munched the sandwich.

  “It’s not gourmet or anything.” Kendra forced a laugh.

  They talked about mundane things over lunch. Tyler asked her if she missed working at the hospital, which she confided that she did although the time away from work proved to be a welcome break from the hectic pace. These days, she only has Sophie to worry about.

  Tyler shared they were able to close the deal with the Montana investors and the initial planning phase is already underway. While it is not the biggest projects Tyler’s company have handled, he shared it will open up a number of lucrative opportunities in the future.

  They were finishing up their lunch when the doorbell rang. “That must be Peter,” Tyler said as he hurriedly carried his plate to the sink.

  “Don’t worry about the dishes. You go ahead and answer the door.” Kendra shooed him out of the kitchen.

  The two men were already in the living room discussing the custody case when Kendra joined them. The two stood up when she approached and Tyler graciously introduced them. “Ken, this is Attorney Peter Nielsen, my lawyer. Pete, Kendra Simmons, a good family friend.”

  Peter smiled warmly as he shook her hand. “So you’re also the nurse who got my old boy Tyler to spend over two million dollars in one night.” To Kendra’s consternation, the two men chuckled good-naturedly. Kendra forced a tight smile.

  From the looks of it, the two were good friends. Peter has an All American boy-next-door charm, which is in complete contrast to Tyler’s dark, panther-like appeal. Nevertheless, the two no doubt have the same prowess with women.

  “Going back to our discussion, Ty, I hate to tell you this man but your reputation does not exactly work in your favor. Everyone in town knows you’re the love ‘em and leave ‘em type. Raising a child will require a more stable environment,” Peter said pleasantly.

  “Fuck! What else do they want from me? I’ve turned my life around for Sophie. I can’t wipe away my past,” Tyler sounded annoyed.

  “Well, a single man running a multi-million company and a highly active social life does not exactly paint a pretty picture for an ideal daddy material, don’t you think?” Peter said dryly.

  “You don’t have to rub it in, Pete,” Tyler replied in mock sarcasm.

  “But that’s all in the past. If they can only see how Tyler is with Sophie and the sacrifices he made for his niece, surely…” Kendra insisted.

  “Yes, yes... I can see that. And that is why I am proposing marriage!” Peter declared smugly. He chortled quietly upon seeing Tyler and Kendra’s surprised expressions.

  Recovering first, Tyler playfully punched Peter on the side of his knee. “Bad joke, man. Not funny.”

  “Who said I was joking? Think about it! A marriage will give an impression of stability and security. You just need to find a decent woman who will agree to such deal,” Peter drawled out his words as if talking to someone with a comprehension problem.

  “What you are proposing is a marriage of convenience, like an arranged marriage or something. It’s so primitive.” Kendra shuddered at the thought. Who in her right mind would ever agree to such arrangement?

  ‘Exactly. A marriage of convenience. A practical arrangement between two reasonable, consenting adults. It makes perfect sense, you see. Everything will be laid out in black and white. No volatile emotions, no unreasonable expectations, no messy confrontations.” Peter looked pretty confident in his idea.

  “You’re crazy, you know that? How did I end up with a lawyer like you anyway?” Tyler demanded sarcastically. The two were clearly close friends and had known each other long enough to dish out and take insults in stride.

  “We-ll… aside from the fact that I am the best at what I do, we have successfully deflected a number of lawsuits under my term. Seriously now, it’s not ethical for me to suggest such underhanded scheme. I trust this conversation will remain a secret between us three.” Peter leaned forward and resumed back to his business-like tone.

  “Oh, God. You’re really serious,” Kendra rubbed her temples, her disbelief still apparent.

  “Yes, I am. Unfortunately, I see the immediate need for Tyler to tie the knot, preferably to someone who is of reputable character and that he’s known for a long time. It is important that we prove to the court he is committed to building a nurturing environment for Sophie.” Peter’s voice was not devoid of amusement.

  “We all know marriage doesn’t make a family. Raising a kid on your own is not exactly a new concept.” Tyler snorted in disgust.

  “Yes, but with a bachelor reputation like yours, you cannot prevent people from questioning your background and ability to raise a normal child.” Peter pointed out gravely.

  “Gee, thanks for your vote of confidence, man.” Tyler rubbed his face in frustration. He was not expecting Peter would suggest such elaborate and drastic measures. “I’m sorry to disappoint you but this bachelor is actually unattached as of the moment, so a proposal is out of the question. Bianca left. Apparently, a baby cramps her style.” Tyler laughed mirthlessly.

  “Well, it’s not as if women wouldn’t line up and fight tooth and nail to be your wife. But it’s better to get someone who understands the whole setup and will agree to the terms.” Peter looked meaningfully to Kendra, who was busy chewing her lips, lost in her own thoughts.

  Kendra noticed the room was suddenly quiet and realized the two men were looking at her expectantly. “What?” she demanded. She was clueless with the recent exchange.

  “Well, we were wondering if you are open to the idea of playing the role of Tyler’s wife.” Peter asked her without any hesitation.

  “You two are insufferable. I don’t know what planet you both came from or what type of women you have dated in the past, but believe me, there are many women out there who wish to be married for all the right reasons, me included.” Kendra’s voice quivered with anger.

  “C’mon Kendra, would it really be that bad?” Tyler asked quietly, eying her intently.

  “I hate to break this to you Tyler, but not everything is about you or about Sophie. Do you even have any idea what you are asking?! Let me make it clear to you. What you are asking from me or from any woman who is crazy enough to consider this lunatic idea is to put her life on hold for God knows how long. That could mean missing out the opportunity of getting married to a man who truly loves me or have children on my own.

  “But no, I bet you haven’t even considered that part because you and your odious lawyer are too caught up with plotting a grand scheme. You know what? I don’t want to hear any more suggestions from either of you. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll check on Sophie.” Kendra was breathing heavily by the time she finished her little tirade. She stood up and walked out of the living room in a huff.

  “Wow. She’s a little spitfire, that one.” Peter shook his head as if to clear his head. “So that eliminates her off the list then.”

  “Do you really think this will work? I mean, will this ward off Melissa’s aunt’s custody claims for good?” Tyler leaned back, feeling exhausted and emotionally drained from the unexpected turn of events. Just a month ago, he was living the life—wining and dining at the plushest restaurants and planning the next vacation with Bianca. These days, he barely had time for himself but for some reason, he did not resent the change. Sophie was worth it.

  “No, there is no assurance. If we are pushing through with this idea, it is important that we have all the bases covered. The courts
will question the validity and authenticity of your marriage and it will probably be placed under scrutiny given the sudden turn of events,” Peter explained.

  “So are you telling me, I will really have to be married and stay married for several years?” Tyler asked. The more he thought about the idea, the more he was convinced Kendra was the best candidate for the job.

  “Ideally, I would recommend that you stay married for at least three years. Your wife should stay in the same house and you will both play the part of a couple in love. If in case either one of you chooses to have an affair outside the marriage, discretion is required. In fact, I advise you to stay loyal to your marriage for its entire duration to avoid complications.” Peter said, trying to simplify the matter in spite of the fact the arrangement seems so elaborate and devious.

  Tyler inhaled deeply. For the first time, he felt like he wasn’t in control of his life and it scared the living daylights out of him. He needed someone he could trust and rely on to uphold her end of the bargain, and he could not think of anyone else but Kendra.

  While he and Kendra had not really been that close prior to the accident, Tyler realized she was actually the only female friend he had—a disconcerting realization to say the least. The women in his life almost always tried to pursue a physical relationship with him.

  Looking grim and determined, Tyler mulled over his options and how he could get Kendra to agree to a five-year marriage with him. He knew it was asking a lot of her, but frankly he didn’t have a choice. Worse, time was not on his side.

  Chapter Eight

  Dinner was an unusually awkward affair. Instead of cooking, Tyler insisted on having food delivered from a nearby Mexican restaurant. Their conversations were polite but stilted.

  Kendra was still mad at the assumption that she would readily agree to the crazy idea and take marriage lightly. They assumed too much! Just because she was not in a relationship at the moment and Tyler was considered a prime catch didn’t mean she would jump at the chance of tying the knot with him.