Page 73 of Chaos

A butterfly of excitement flutters in my belly. “That would be nice.”

Maeve knots her hand in his hair, making him wince.

“Easy, baby girl. I’ll take that as a ‘yes’ from you, too.” He carefully untangles her fingers and slides her down so she’s sitting on his hip.

Getting off the couch, I start walking to my room. “I need to change. Where are we going?”

His gaze burns down my body. “You look amazing. We’ll be inside and outside. What you’re wearing is perfect.”

I glance down at my stained tank top and holey shorts. “Um. I’ll be right back.”

Swapping into a light green sundress, I brush out my ponytail and throw on fast makeup before meeting him back in the living room.

He’s sitting on the floor with Maeve, reading her a book. I think my mascara is running already. He’s so adorable.

“Oh, tigritsa…” he groans when he sees me.

A flame ignites in my chest. “Well, let’s go before she needs a nap.” I wink at him, hoping he gets my hint.

He clears his throat and stands holding Maeve. “Does she have a bag? I’ll grab it.”

When he slips the strap over his shoulder, I swear I’m dreaming.

A deep purple Land Rover sits in the driveway. It almost has an iridescent look when I walk closer.

Jax walks to the rear passenger door and opens it.

“Let me get the car seat out of my—” My words choke as I see him settling her into a brand new pink one.

He’s thought of everything.

“You won’t need that one anymore, sweetheart.” Jax sticks out his fist, knuckles up. “Hold out your hand.”

Hesitantly, I flatten my palm beneath his.

He drops a key fob with a tiny purple tiger charm. “It’s yours.”

I freeze, staring at him.

“Jax.” Words disappear.

His fingers curl mine around the black plastic before he gathers me in his arms. “I want to take care of you. Both of you.” His soft lips touch the tip of my nose. “Now, let’s get going. It’s already getting hot out here.” Spinning me, he guides me around the front to the driver’s side.

“Jax, I…” I’m still speechless.

He laughs and helps me slide into the cool leather seat. “Push the brake and hit the button.”

The engine purrs to life and cold air hits me in the face, shocking me back to reality.

“I can’t accept this.” My hands rest on the steering wheel.

Is it cooled?

“Don’t be silly. It’s the very least I can do. You gave me a daughter. You should have something safe to drive.” He shuts the door.

My throat tightens. I’m his baby-mama.

I guess he did want to be a dad. But does he want me?

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