Page 6 of The Reluctant Heir

Julien.

My younger brother.

As much as I hate to admit it, I am curious about him.

I have siblings. Brothers. For as long as I can remember, it’s always been Mom and me. I wanted siblings so badly. I used to beg my mom to get married so I could have a little brother or sister. Turns out, I’ve always had siblings.

But…

My life. My job. My family. How can I just leave all of this behind and go with Michael Scott? He may be my father, but I’ve only just met the guy.

I slowly shake my head. “I can’t just leave. My mom—” my voice breaks off.

It would break her heart if I left. No matter how tempting his offer is, I can’t accept it.

Besides, who is to say that life with vampires would be any better than it is with the succubi and incubi? I’m still a hybrid. And I know how supernaturals feel about hybrids. Even if they’refar more common now than they were fifty years ago, they’re still thought of in the same negative ways.

“Sasha has had you for twenty three years. It’s my turn.” Michael clenches his jaw like he’s upset by something.

It’s weird to hear my mom’s name come from his lips.

I wet my lips. “So… are you married to Lucien’s mother?”

Maybe it’s rude to ask, but this guy is my father and I’m curious.

He sighs, nodding. “I understand why you’re asking that question, and the answer is yes. I am married to her.”

I want to ask more questions, but my throat closes up.

“I had an affair with your mother,” Michael says, answering my unasked question. “And yes, my wife knows about the affair. She’s long since forgiven me.”

“Did my mom know you were married?”

He raises an eyebrow at me. “Maybe you should talk about this with your mother.”

I already know the answer is yes from the way he rebuffed my question. He’s not afraid to admit to his wrongdoings, but he’s not going to criminalize my mother. It’s a point in his favor. But still…

“I am glad you came.” At least, sort of. “But I don’t think I can go with you. I don’t even know you. How do I know you’re telling the truth about being my father?”

“Because you’re smart. The two of us look alike.” Michael stares me down, daring me to argue.

He’s right, but I’m not going to admit it out loud.

He scoots to the edge of the chair. “Do me a favor and think about it for the night. I will come back tomorrow night to get your final answer.” He stands from the chair and shoots me a look. “Talk to your mom, she will confirm my identity.”

I stand up from the couch to walk him to the door. “Let’s say that I don’t want to come with you to be your heir, can I still come visit? I’d like to meet Julien.”

Michael nods. “Of course. You’ll always be welcome. I would’ve come sooner, but I stayed away out of respect for your mother. But I refuse to stay away from you any longer, as long as you’ll have me.”

I don’t know what to make of his words as we walk to the front door. My heart feels so light.

He pauses at the door, turning to face me. He puts his hands on my forearms, looking intently at me. “I will see you tomorrow, Madeline.” He studies me for a few more moments before he backs away and leaves my apartment. I lock the door after him and stand there wondering what I’m supposed to do now.

That was… unexpected. I have no idea what to make of Michael Scott.

I have a father. And he didn’t abandon me like I always thought he did. That isifI believe him.

Did my mom really wait until I was eighteen to tell him about me? Or did he say that to make me like him? I could imagine that my mom was worried about me leaving to live with the vampires, so I wouldn’t be surprised if it were true.

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