Page 39 of Lilly's Little Labor Day

“I know this might seem unorthodox,” Master Derek said. “But hear me out. Please. I’ve lost track of how many happy couples are out there thanks to my keen eye for this sort of thing. And it isn’t as odd as you might think. I’ve heard stepbrother romances are very popular with readers.”

“This isn’t a romance novel,” Edward said.

“Sure feels like one,” Lilly murmured.

Master Derek smiled. “I just bring it up to illustrate there are plenty of folks who are clearly okay with such an arrangement, else there wouldn’t be such a market for those sort of stories.”

“I can’t argue that,” Edward said.

Lilly remained silent. She felt she should put up a token defense, but it would be half-hearted at best.

“Are you willing to give it a shot? Just through Labor Day?” Master Derek asked. “If it isn’t working out, then we can reevaluate where you both are and make changes accordingly. But right now, I cannot think of another Daddy for Lilly. And Edward, I can’t think of another Little who matches so perfectly with you. On paper—and in my gut—this is going to work.”

Lilly and Edward looked at each other with narrowed eyes. Finally, she relented with a nod. He did the same. They swiveled their heads back to Master Derek.

“I believe you’re making the right choice,” he said. “And of course, no one is forcing this on you. Yes, I’m confident in my selection here, but you two are in control. That goes even for you, Lilly. Remember what we talked about when you arrived? If anything makes you uncomfortable, tell me. We create a safe and caring environment for all our guests. Always.”

“Noted,” Edward said.

Lilly nodded. “Yes, Sir. I understand. I’ll, uh, stay with Edward.” She blushed just thinking about the possibilities, praying neither of the men noticed.

“Perfect,” Master Derek said. “Lilly, you’ll move out of the dorms and in with your new Daddy.”

Her eyes went wide. She gulped.

There was no denying her reaction, especially for someone as astute as Master Derek. He smiled. “You can call him Uncle Edward. Or whatever you two agree on. This is just a trial period. There’s no need to move any quicker than either of you are comfortable with.”

He stood. His guests did as well. He began walking to the office door, his hands around both of their shoulders as he guided them.

“Trust me,” he said. “I believe this is the start—or rather a continuation—of something beautiful.”

Lilly wasn’t so sure. It seemed more as if they were pushing boundaries.

The boundaries of something forbidden.

Chapter 20

Edward’s room was one of the luxury suites and differed wildly from the Littles’ dorm Lilly had slept in the night prior.

The dorm was far from a dump. It had been a fun experience, too. But Edward’s room was in a whole other league.

It had a hardwood floor, beamed ceilings, and an enormous bed with sheets and a comforter that probably cost more money than Lilly had in her entire account. Sliding glass doors opened to a private patio where a hot tub awaited. A wooden fence afforded a bit of privacy while a gate led one off that patio and into the common pool area. To say it was nice was an understatement.

Of course, it wasn’t all sunshine and roses. There was an armoire and Lilly had no doubt as to what it held. In fact, she had the fear that Edward might spank her again for that golf cart incident, but he seemed calm and collected as they got settled into the suite. Still, she made a mental note to be on her best behavior.

Or should she go a different route?

She tucked the question away in her brain to ponder later. An idea was forming and she needed to flesh it out a bit more before fully committing to it.

“This place is nice,” she said. “Ms. Duckworth is going to love it.”

“Where is Ms. Duckworth?”

“She’s back in the dorm. Laying on my bed. Or the bed I was using.”

“Well, Master Derek said your stuff should be sent down soon. Then you and Ms. Duckworth can be reunited. Until then, let’s talk.” He sat on the bed and wagged his crooked finger, beckoning her to stand before him. Once she was in place, he said, “What was that golf cart thing about? Getting into trouble isn’t like you. At least, I don’t think it is. I’ve always pegged you for a good girl.”

She put her tongue between her teeth and giggled.

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