Page 89 of Tempted

Madeline guided Jasmine toward the living room, ignoring her grandson’s question. “There’s no point in getting upset, Victor. They would have found out sooner or later. Now let’s get you off your feet, honey.”

Still stunned, Jasmine allowed the older woman to lead her to the couch help her sit.

“Mother…” Victor said in a warning tone.

Madeline took the seat next to her while Chelsea and Tyler fought over the space on Jasmine’s other side. Giving his sister a healthy shove, Tyler won the battle and took his place.

“Oww that hurt!” Chelsea whined, which finally spurred Jasmine to speak.

“Kids, that’s enough. There will be none of that while you’re here. Tyler apologize to your sister. And Chelsea, what did I tell you about whining? Now, I need a proper hug from the both of you.” Despite the surprise of their visit, she was actually glad to see them again.

Jasmine opened her arms to the children and held them as tightly as her belly allowed. Tears welled in her eyes. God, she missed them. She may not have given birth to them but they were her children too. Whatever problems she had with their father, Jasmine realized at the very least she should have maintained some kind of contact with them.

Chelsea pulled away first with teary eyes. “Jasmine, why did you stay away? Don’t you like us anymore?”

Tyler drew back as well, apprehension on his face. “Yeah. You never called or visited,” the little boy stated in an accusing tone.

Her heart ached for them. They were innocent casualties in all this mess. “I promise it had nothing to do with you two. I miss both of you very much. I just needed some time to get myself together. And….” She took a deep breath. “The doctor wanted me to take special care since I’m carrying this baby.” The cat was already out of the bag, so there was really no point in pretending otherwise.

“Does that mean you and Dad are getting married?” Tyler demanded.

“Tyler, I think that’s enough with the questions.” Victor barked.

Madeline waved her hands dismissively. “Victor, stop being so uptight. The kids just got here. Don’t you think they’re entitled to ask a few questions since you haven’t exactly been forthcoming?”

Victor turned beet red and it became clear to Jasmine in that moment he had nothing to do with it. The tension flowing from Victor was so tangible she felt she needed to do something about it.

“It’s no problem, Victor. Kids, I have some chocolate chip cookies in the kitchen by the stove in the green jar. Why don’t you two get yourself a few and a glass of milk. There are some clean glasses in the dishwasher. Help yourself. Your father, grandmother and I need to have a chat. When you’re done rejoin us and you can ask as many questions as you like.”

“But I want to know about the baby,” Chelsea persisted.

“Chelsea, listen to Jasmine and let the adults talk for a minute,” Madeline scolded lightly.

The little girl pouted. “Daddy?”

Victor’s no nonsense narrowed stare had both children heading toward the kitchen. When it was only the three adults left, he turned on his mother. “I can’t believe you did this.”

Madeline crossed her arms. “If I didn’t take matters in my own hands, we’d still be waiting around long after the baby was born. And the children have the right to know about the baby.”

Victor flared his nostrils. “You weren’t thinking about the children. You were thinking about yourself.”

“That isn’t fair Victor, and you know it!”

“Was it fair to barge in here like this when you know you weren’t invited? And to use the kids to boot. You’ve crossed the line this time, Mom.”

Jasmine’s head was spinning. “Please. Both of you, stop it. There’s no use in arguing about it. The damage is done. Madeline I’m not sure if this was the appropriate way for the children to find out about the baby, but….I’m glad you’re here.” She offered her friend a smile, taking her hand.

The older woman’s bravado crumbled, and her eyes shimmered and lips quivered. “I’m sorry, I did this. It was just….Victor was right. It was about me wanting to be in the baby’s life, your life. When you left and didn’t come to me for help, I understood. But when you continued to stay away even after you’d learned about the baby, I was so hurt.”

Jasmine’s guilt increased. “I’m sorry, but I was going through so much, I didn’t think it was fair to burden you with my problems.”

“Do I take this to mean you’re willing to allow all of us to be a part of the baby’s life?” Madeline asked.

Jasmine nodded. “Of course. I’ve been doing some thinking and I believe we can work something out as far as visitation.”

“Oh, that’s wonderful, Jasmine. The children will love that and so would I!” Madeline exclaimed.

Did she imagine it or was there a flicker of sadness that crossed Victor’s face? Being a part of his child’s life was what he wanted so what was his problem?

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