by Kendall Ryan
Maddie nodded silently, her eyes trained on the newly laid frosting.
“How about some hot chocolate while we wait?” I offered, unpacking the candies from the bag.
“Yay!” Maddie quickly clambered down from her chair at the table and scurried to the pantry to help me get the hot chocolate ingredients.
Once Maddie was out of earshot, I placed a hand on Kate’s shoulder and asked, “How was she while I was gone? She’s listening to you, right? No issues?”
Kate chuckled and shook her head. “Just because I’ve moved in doesn’t mean that things are going to change between Maddie and me. She was perfect. You really don’t need to worry about us.”
I let out a sigh of relief. Kate had moved in for good last week. I’d figured there might be an adjustment period for all three of us, but so far, things had gone smoothly. “I know you’re right. I just worry sometimes, you know? This is still new territory for all of us.”
“Well, I appreciate your concern, but trust me, everything’s perfect.” Kate smiled, and I leaned down to kiss her again, this time a little longer than before.
“Daddy!” Maddie called out. “Come help me make hot chocolate!”
I broke away from the kiss, and Kate let out a small giggle.
“I guess that’s something we’ll just have to get used to, won’t we?”
“You’d think we’d be used to being interrupted by now,” I said with a wink. We both laughed, and I walked over to the fridge and pulled out the milk.
“Hey, Daddy?”
“Yeah, Maddie?”
“Is Kate gonna live with us forever?”
Shit. When Kate and I decided she should move in, we’d had a talk with Maddie about it, but she didn’t have many questions at the time. Kate had said she thought that was a good sign, but I’d been worried. And now that Maddie was asking me questions like that? I wasn’t sure what her reaction would be, no matter how I responded.
“That’s the plan,” I said, turning the heat to low and setting the wooden spoon on the counter. “Is that okay with you? I know we talked about it before and you said it was okay, but it’s also okay if you’re scared about it now.”
Maddie shook her head, looking down at her toes. “No, I’m not scared,” she said, picking at a piece of frosting stuck to her shirt.
“Then what is it, sweetie?”
“I just really like it that she lives here now.”
I smiled, crouching down and pulling Maddie in for a hug. “Me too.”
I gave the hot chocolate one final stir before taking three mugs out of the cabinet. As I poured the hot liquid into the mugs, Maddie followed closely behind, dropping a handful of mini marshmallows into each one.
“Do you want a candy cane in yours?” I asked, ripping the bag open and pulling out one of the mini red-and-white candies.
Maddie shook her head vigorously. “No, that’s gross.”
“Well, I want one.” I hooked a candy cane over the lip of the mug. “Kate, do you want a candy cane in your hot chocolate?” I called over to her.
“No, that’s gross,” she called back.
Maddie and I both laughed.
“See? I told you.” Maddie raised her eyebrows and placed her hands on her hips.
Maybe I wasn’t as prepared for this whole two-against-one thing as I thought. It was hard enough with one XX gender in the house, let alone two. I was seriously outnumbered.
I carried Kate and Maddie’s mugs over to the table while Maddie climbed into the chair next to Kate, sitting up on her knees to get a better view of the house.
“Is it ready?” Maddie asked.
“Just about.” Kate smiled. “In the meantime, why don’t we start opening these bags of candy.”
“I’ll get you some bowls,” I said. As I walked across the kitchen toward the cabinet, Maddie and Kate continued chattering behind me, their giggles and laughter bringing a huge smile to my face.
Kate and Maddie got to work on decorating the house, Maddie pointing out the places she wanted to put a gumdrop, and Kate piping a small dot of frosting in the exact spot. They were a great team. Kate was patient with Maddie when she continually changed her mind at the last second, and Maddie hung on Kate’s every word. It was sweet. I really couldn’t have picked a better woman for my daughter to look up to. Kate was strong, confident, and independent, all the things I wanted Maddie to be.
By the time they were making their finishing touches about half an hour later, the gingerbread house looked perfect—and the two of them were completely covered in frosting and sugar.
“What do you think, Daddy?” Maddie asked when they were done, proudly outstretching her arms around their creation.
“You two did a great job.”
She smiled, staring at the gingerbread house with pride. Suddenly, her gaze snapped over to Kate.
“When do we get to eat it?”
• • •
A couple of hours later, we put Maddie to bed and headed into our bedroom. I made sure to close our door, but I didn’t need to lock it anymore. Maddie knew to knock if she needed anything.
While I changed, Kate stood in the bathroom, washing the final bits of frosting off her hands.
“I don’t know if I’ll ever get this sugar out from underneath my fingernails,” she said, pulling a nailbrush out of the drawer and scrubbing at her fingertips.
“That just means you’ll be even sweeter than you already are,” I replied, tossing my jeans into the hamper and pulling my T-shirt off over my head.
Kate snorted. “That’s super corny, babe.”
“Dad jokes come with the territory.” I shrugged. “Having second thoughts about moving in?”
She smiled, her gaze wandering lazily over my bare chest. She walked over to me and ran her hands over my biceps before wrapping her arms around my neck. “Not even a little.”
I pulled her close, tipping her chin up to meet mine, and took her lips in a sweet kiss. My cock gave an eager twitch in my boxers. And judging by the look on Kate’s face, she felt it too.
She arched an eyebrow, pressing her body a little harder into mine. “How you doing there, big guy?”
I let my hands wander down her back to her perfect ass, taking a handful of her cheeks in each hand and squeezing, causing her to arch her back, rubbing her body against mine.
“I think you know how I’m doing.” I growled, bringing my lips to her neck, grazing the tender spot below her ear.
She sighed, leaning her head back and running her fingers through my hair.
“Why don’t you show me?” she said breathlessly, trailing her fingernails over my back, sending desire shooting straight up my spine.
I growled again into her neck, my cock now straining against my boxers and pressing into her belly.
Releasing her ass, I pulled her top over her head, quickly undoing the clasp on her bra to reveal her full, supple breasts. Taking one of her nipples in my mouth, I sucked on it gently and Kate moaned, running her fingers through my hair again.
As I continued kissing and sucking on her breast, I moved my hands to the waist of her jeans, unbuttoning them and pulling the zipper down.
Leading her to our bed, I pulled Kate on top of me, her legs straddling my hips. Taking my cock in her delicate hands, she guided me as she lowered herself, taking me inch by inch, both of us moaning as she did. Once I was fully inside her, Kate leaned down, bringing her lips to mine, and for a moment neither one of us moved, relishing how amazing it felt to be one.
When our lips parted, I placed my hand on her cheek, my eyes searching hers.
“There’s something I want to tell you,” I whispered, running my thumb over her skin.
“What is it?” she whispered back, turning her face to place a small kiss on my palm.
I paused, taking in her beauty for what felt like the first time all over again. Her hair, her eyes, her full, pouty lips . . . she was everything. I never thought I would find someone who could handle Maddie a
nd me as a package deal, and somehow, I tricked the universe into giving Kate to me. I couldn’t believe how lucky I was, and I couldn’t keep my feelings to myself anymore.
“I love you,” I said, staring deeply into her eyes. “And I want to keep you forever.”
Her eyes widened for a moment, then glistened with unshed tears. She was silent for a few seconds more before letting out a soft chuckle.
“I love you too,” she replied, smiling and wiping the corner of her eye. “But forever’s a long time. Are you sure?”
“Forever won’t be nearly long enough.” I pulled her in for another kiss, the energy between us suddenly electric. Our mouths moved quickly and urgently against each other as our bodies found a pleasurable rhythm.
Kate rocked her hips over me, sending immediate waves of pleasure through my whole body.
“Yes, that’s it. Like that.” I groaned, placing one hand on her ass to guide her movements, and brought the other between her legs to rub her clit.
Her moans grew louder as mine grew deeper, and our breathing became ragged. As Kate came closer to orgasm, her eyes never left mine. God, I could have watched her all night like this, the pleasure on her face all my doing.
Forever definitely wouldn’t be nearly long enough.
Chapter Twenty-One
Kate
I never thought I’d be the type to want a big, fluffy white dress. First, there was the expense, and second, it was just so damn impractical. Third, it was uncomfortable and obnoxious, and something you only wore once. It seemed like a complete waste.
Yet when the time came to plan our big day, a newfound part of me I’d never been acquainted with began voicing her opinions. I’d told Hunter this would be a low-key affair—a simple backyard barbecue, for all I cared. But the further we got in the planning, the more specific my requests became.
Suddenly, the backyard wasn’t quite enough, yet a banquet hall was too sterile; a pantsuit was something you wore to a funeral, and a sundress was too casual. He’d been sweet and accommodating of my every whim, which was how we came to be sitting in the private back room of our favorite restaurant, me in a stunning white gown that cost as much as my first car. There was a small parquet floor for dancing, and about fifty of our closest friends and family gathered around us.
And as for the white dress—you only live once, folks. In this moment, I felt like a princess, and not in a cheesy I’ve conformed kind of way, but in a bursting with happiness, I’ve finally found my Prince Charming kind of way.
I gazed across the room and saw Maddie digging through the gift bag I’d left for her, chatting happily with Hunter’s parents and my mom.
The day had been perfect. Our ceremony was short and sweet, and now soft jazz music floated through the air as waiters circled with glasses of bubbly champagne on little silver trays. I couldn’t help the smile overtaking my lips.
As Jessie and Rebecca rose to their feet and moved to the front of the room, I could already smell trouble. Jessie had that familiar grin I’d come to recognize meant mischief, and Rebecca swayed next to her, already pleasantly buzzed on champagne.
Dread filled me. What were they going to say? This was supposed to be a family-friendly event.
Jessie tapped a spoon against a glass, drawing everyone’s attention.
Hunter’s gaze met mine, and he was smiling. God, this man. He looked so freaking happy, so full of life. His eyes were bright, his hair styled so neatly, and his black suit fit him perfectly. I didn’t think I’d ever get used to how handsome he was.
“If we could have your attention, please,” Jessie said. “We’d like to say a few words to the bride and groom.”
The crowd quieted, and all eyes were on Jessie as she straightened her shoulders, thrusting her chin out.
“First, we have to give huge props to Hunter.” She looked right at him as she spoke, and Rebecca grinned conspiratorially. “For taming our commitment-phobe friend. She was only looking for Mister Tonight, and we’re so happy that she found her Mister Forever.”
The collective aww from the crowd only marginally soothed my hot shame. There’s nothing like your in-laws knowing you once enjoyed lots of no-strings sex.
“Cheers to Kate and Hunter!” Rebecca said, and applause broke out.
Hunter’s hand found mine under the table, and he squeezed. “Any second thoughts?”
“Not a one,” I said, meaning every word. I wouldn’t let Jessie and Rebecca’s toast embarrass me. I had been afraid of commitment. But Hunter had changed all that.
“Love you, baby,” he murmured, leaning close.
“Love you more.”
Soon, appetizers were delivered to the tables and my friends took their seats once again. Later there would be dinner and dancing, and then a special night away at a hotel suite for Hunter and me while Maddie stayed over with her grandparents. And next month, we’d take our honeymoon—a seven-night trip to Scotland that I’d been dreaming about for months.
But it wasn’t the dress, or the party, or the honeymoon I was most excited about. It was a lifetime of being Hunter’s wife and Maddie’s mom that had my heart near bursting.
“Daddy!” Maddie came bounding over to the table where Hunter and I sat huddled together. “Look at what I got!” She held up the loot from her gift bag. “It’s a princess coloring book.”
Hunter nodded, patting her shoulder. “Kate picked all that out for you.”
Her bright gaze swung over to me. “Thanks, Kate!”
“You’re very welcome. I wanted to make sure you have fun tonight too.”
Hunter smiled, watching our interaction. “And later when you’re tired, Grandma and Grandpa will take you home, okay?”
“I’m not tired,” Maddie insisted. “I want to dance.”
Hunter and I chuckled as we watched her sashay around in her frilly party dress.
“Kate?” Maddie asked, her expression suddenly turning serious. “Since you’re married to my daddy now, does that mean you’re my mommy?”
My stomach twisted as I glanced at Hunter, hoping for some help. But he only grinned. “Um, well, I would love to be your mommy. I didn’t grow you in my belly, but I love you very much, and I—”
“Okay, good,” Maddie said quickly. “So I can start calling you Mommy now?”
My throat tightened as tears gathered in my eyes. “Would you want to?”
“Yup!” Maddie cheered.
I pulled her little body close, wrapping her in a hug, and could swear my heart swelled three sizes. “I would love that.”
After that, she scampered away, leaving Hunter and me to stare at each other with unshed tears. He placed his hand on my cheek, watching me with so much emotion in his eyes.
It had taken me a long time to learn what a four-year-old already knew. A mom was someone who took you to the zoo and kissed your boo-boos and made you chocolate chip cookies. Someone who spent every day making sure you were happy and loved.
Maddie was right. I was her mom now.
I beamed at Hunter, unable to hide my smile. “That was incredible.”
He nodded. “You were made for this role.” His warm gaze stayed glued to mine, seeming to calm me and communicate you’ve got this all at once.
I pressed a quick kiss to his lips.
“Mister Tonight, huh?” he asked, recalling Jessie’s words.
I rolled my eyes. “Obviously, that didn’t work out.”
“I’d say it worked out perfectly.”
Against the backdrop of silverware clinking against glassware, I pressed my lips to Hunter’s again.
Epilogue
Kate
“A little to the left,” I told Hunter, shifting my hips. “Right there! That’s perfect.”
He adjusted himself and continued stroking my inner thigh. “I just want you to be comfortable, baby.”
Even after being married for almost a year, we were still as hot and heavy as ever. And it didn’t hurt that I was nine months pregnant and my ho
rmones were giving me the libido of a teenage boy. The problem was, we couldn’t always find a position that worked for my gigantic belly. And did I mention I was having twins?
Hunter moved his hand lower and stroked exactly where I wanted him. “You’re so wet, baby,” he whispered as I let out a moan. He moved forward, ready to position his erection up against me, when I felt a sharp stab of pain in my abdomen.
I gasped, clutching my stomach.
“What is it?” he asked, concern lacing his voice. “Is it the babies?”
The pain subsided, and I let out a sigh of relief.
“It’s fine, just keep going,” I told him.
It had taken us fifteen minutes to figure out the perfect position, and I’d be damned if I gave up on an orgasm now. Hunter didn’t seem convinced, so I placed a hand on his thick erection, moving my hand up and down. I shifted my hips forward, ready for him to enter me, when I was hit with another wave.
“Shit,” I whispered, the wind knocked out of me from the pain.
“I think we should go to the hospital,” he said, jumping up and beginning to pull his clothes on.
“I’m not due until next week,” I protested, shaking my head.
He placed his hand on my cheek, tucking my hair behind my ear. “Come on, I think we should get this checked out. I don’t want you in pain.”
“No, I’m fine. I think it’s a false alarm,” I said, waving him away. “I’m just going to rest for a little.”
Hunter was unconvinced. Ignoring me, he pulled my overnight bag out from the closet and picked up my clothes from the floor.
“You need to put these on,” he said, placing my feet through my panties and pulling them up for me. Then he grabbed his cell. His parents had agreed to watch Maddie while we were at the hospital, and were waiting on standby.
Reluctantly, I pulled on the rest of my clothes before sitting on the bed while Hunter spoke to his mother. When he hung up, he grabbed the suitcase.
“I’m going to load the car while they drive over,” he said, leaning over to press a kiss to the top of my head.